Fantasy Football is a game of strategy, skill and a bit of luck. It’s a game that millions of people around the world play and it brings out the competitive spirit in all of us. However, this year has been particularly challenging for fantasy football enthusiasts. With injuries plaguing star players and unexpected underperformances, it seems like the waiver wire has never been more important. As we approach the halfway mark of the fantasy football regular season, it’s time to take a look at some key pickups that could make all the difference for your team.
One of the biggest names to hit the waiver wire this week is Jaxson Dart, the freshman quarterback for the USC Trojans. Dart made his debut against Washington State and made quite an impression. He passed for 391 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for a score. With starting quarterback Kedon Slovis injured, Dart could potentially see more playing time in the upcoming games. He is definitely worth a pickup for fantasy managers in need of a quarterback.
Another exciting option on the waiver wire is Kayshon Boutte, wide receiver for the LSU Tigers. Boutte had a breakout game against Ole Miss, catching 14 passes for 308 yards and three touchdowns. He also set a school record for most receiving yards in a single game. With his speed and agility, Boutte has the potential to be a game-changer for fantasy teams. If he continues to perform at this level, he could be a valuable asset for the rest of the season.
Injuries have been a major issue for fantasy managers this year, and it’s always important to keep an eye on players returning from injuries. One such player is running back Christian McCaffrey from the Carolina Panthers. McCaffrey has been out with a hamstring injury since week three, but is expected to return in week eight. He is a top-performing running back when healthy and could make a huge impact for fantasy teams in the second half of the season. If he’s available on your waiver wire, he’s definitely worth a pickup.
Another running back to keep an eye on is Damien Harris from the New England Patriots. Harris had a strong start to the season, but has been dealing with injuries in recent weeks. However, he is expected to return in week eight and could be a valuable asset for fantasy managers. Harris has proven to be a reliable option in the Patriots’ offense and with a favorable schedule ahead, he could have a strong second half of the season.
In addition to injuries, players underperforming has also been a major issue for fantasy managers this year. One such player is wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from the Cleveland Browns. Beckham has had a slow start to the season, but with quarterback Baker Mayfield finding his groove, he could see an increase in targets and production. As a top-tier receiver, Beckham has the potential to turn his season around and be a game-changer for fantasy teams.
Finally, for those in need of a tight end, keep an eye on Hunter Henry from the New England Patriots. Henry has been a consistent performer for the Patriots and has seen an increase in targets in recent weeks. With the tight end position being notoriously difficult to fill in fantasy football, Henry could be a valuable addition to your team.
In conclusion, the waiver wire is a critical aspect of fantasy football and this year, it’s more important than ever. With injuries and underperformances plaguing teams, it’s crucial to make smart pickups to keep your team competitive. Players like Jaxson Dart, Kayshon Boutte, Christian McCaffrey, Damien Harris, Odell Beckham Jr., and Hunter Henry could be the missing pieces for your team. As we approach the second half of the season, make sure to keep a close eye on the waiver wire and make strategic decisions to lead your team to victory.
