Week 11 of the NFL season is here, and with it comes the challenge of navigating bye weeks. The Buccaneers, Cardinals, Giants, and Panthers are all off this week, leaving many fantasy managers scrambling for replacements. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with a rundown of 10 players to consider adding off the waiver wire.
Key Players to Consider
Cedric Tillman, WR, Browns (ESPN – 50.6%; Sleeper – 67%; Yahoo! – 58%)
Tillman has been a consistent performer, and with the Browns coming off a bye, he might be overlooked in some leagues. He scored a touchdown and racked up 19.5 points in his last game, and since the Browns traded Amari Cooper to Buffalo, Tillman has scored at least 18.1 points in three games. He absolutely needs to be on rosters across the board.
Jauan Jennings, WR, 49ers (ESPN – 61.9%; Sleeper – 69%; Yahoo! – 60%)
Jennings is still available in about 40% of ESPN and Yahoo! leagues despite his strong performance against the Buccaneers, where he scored 16.3 points. With Brandon Aiyuk on injured reserve, Jennings should be a reliable WR2 or flex option for the remainder of the season. It’s time to snatch him up!
Audric Estime, RB, Broncos (ESPN – 1.1%; Sleeper – 7%; Yahoo! – 3%)
Estime has emerged as the lead back in Denver, leading the team with 14 carries for 53 yards last week. In contrast, Javonte Williams had just one carry. This rookie from Notre Dame is gaining the trust of the Broncos’ coaching staff and is poised to be one of the most sought-after players ahead of Week 11.
Russell Wilson, QB, Steelers (ESPN – 40.2%; Sleeper – 28%; Yahoo! – 21%)
Wilson has been impressive since taking over as the Steelers’ starting quarterback, scoring over 18 points in two of his first three games. He has a favorable matchup against the Ravens’ shaky pass defense next, making him an intriguing option for those in need of a quarterback.
Bo Nix, QB, Broncos (ESPN – 50.5%; Sleeper – 44%; Yahoo! – 33%)
Despite a tough matchup against the Chiefs, Nix managed 16.1 fantasy points last week. He has been consistent, scoring 17-plus points in four of his last six games. With favorable matchups against the Falcons and Raiders coming up, he’s a solid pickup if you need quarterback help.
Ricky Pearsall, WR, 49ers (ESPN – 25%; Sleeper – 55%; Yahoo! – 37%)
Pearsall had a breakout game with four catches for 73 yards and a touchdown, totaling 17.3 points last week. He’s emerging as a key player in the 49ers’ passing attack, making him a player to watch as they face the Seahawks and Packers in the coming weeks.
Jaylen Warren, RB, Steelers (ESPN – 61.6%; Sleeper – 54%; Yahoo! – 51%)
Warren has had a quiet season but showed promise with 14 carries and 95 total yards against the Commanders. He tied his season-high with 35 offensive snaps, making him a valuable depth piece for fantasy managers, especially during bye weeks.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Chargers (ESPN – 45.5%; Sleeper – 59%; Yahoo! – 41%)
Johnston has been finding the end zone frequently, scoring in four of his last six games. With a matchup against the Bengals next, he could be a valuable flex option as fantasy managers look to fill gaps left by bye weeks.
Tyjae Spears, RB, Titans (ESPN – 45.2%; Sleeper – 46%; Yahoo! – 46%)
Spears is back and playing almost as many snaps as Tony Pollard, who has been dealing with an injury. With Pollard likely to be on the injury report again, Spears is a smart add for those looking to bolster their running back depth.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, Saints (ESPN – 0.6%; Sleeper – 2%; Yahoo! – 1%)
Valdes-Scantling surprised everyone with a stellar performance, posting 109 yards and two touchdowns for 25.9 PPR points. While his ownership is low, it’s worth considering if you’re in a pinch, though keep in mind his inconsistency in the past.
Notables
Quarterbacks
Running Backs
Wide Receivers
Tight Ends
*(BYE – Player has a bye next week)
As you prepare for this week, make sure to check out Fantasy Dirt with Lindsay Rhodes and me five days a week, especially on Tuesdays when we dive deep into free agents! With the right additions, you can keep your fantasy team competitive even during bye weeks. Happy managing!
