Are you ready to give your fantasy football team a boost? In this week’s episode of the fantasy football podcast, our experts, Joe Pisapia, Derek Brown, and Pat Fitzmaurice, are discussing the top waiver wire pickups and hidden gems for Week 5. Whether you need to strengthen your running back depth, find a valuable wide receiver, or optimize your tight end position, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the key takeaways from their insightful discussion.
Week 2 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Pickups
Jaleel McLaughlin (RB – DEN)
Time Stamp: 02:13
Jaleel McLaughlin is the standout waiver wire pickup of the week. With an impressive 100 yards of offense and a touchdown, he made his mark in Week 4. Currently rostered in just 2% of leagues, McLaughlin’s potential workload increase is a major attraction. He stepped up in place of Javonte Williams, who is nursing a hip injury, and his future role depends on the extent of Williams’ injury. Given the uncertainty, McLaughlin is a valuable addition to your roster, especially in PPR leagues.
Chuba Hubbard (RB – CAR)
Time Stamp: 08:03
Chuba Hubbard is another running back you should consider adding to your roster. Not only does he offer standalone value, but he could also see an expanded role if Miles Sanders is not fully healthy. Hubbard is a valuable handcuff, and his value could skyrocket if anything were to happen to Sanders.
Jeff Wilson Jr. (RB – MIA)
Time Stamp: 13:43
Jeff Wilson is worth considering as a stash in the Miami Dolphins offense. With an increasing workload and six touchdowns in the past two weeks, Wilson is on the rise. The Dolphins’ offense can support two fantasy-relevant running backs, and if Raheem Mostert or De’Von Achane were to miss time, Wilson could become a top-tier option.
Kendre Miller (RB – NO)
Time Stamp: 11:45
Kendre Miller is a running back with the potential to take over the RB2 role from Jamaal Williams. Williams lacks value as a pass-catcher, and Miller’s explosive offense could make him a more appealing option. Keep an eye on Miller’s performance in the coming weeks.
Quentin Johnston (WR – LAC)
Time Stamp: 19:01
Quinn Johnson should be on your roster radar. Currently rostered in just 66% of leagues, he deserves more attention. Johnston may have drop issues, but his talent and the productive Chargers offense make him a valuable asset in fantasy football. Don’t hesitate to add him to your roster.
Jameson Williams (WR – DET)
Time Stamp: 22:37
Jameson Williams has the ability to make a difference in the Lions’ offense. He can stretch the field, and while his production may be inconsistent, he has the potential for big games.
Tyler Boyd (WR – CIN)
Time Stamp: 27:41
Tyler Boyd’s production and the narrative surrounding him do not align. Even with other Cincinnati starters out, his numbers have been disappointing. Considering the Bengals’ struggling offense, Boyd is a risky choice. Instead, consider a rookie with potential like Jayden Reed.
Jayden Reed (WR – GB)
Time Stamp: 29:25
Reed has shown promising talent and production in the Packers’ passing game. Despite limited opportunities due to the Packers’ running game, he has been efficient and has the potential to contribute.
Marvin Mims (WR – DEN)
Time Stamp: 34:31
Marvin Mims is a budget-friendly wide receiver pickup with great potential. His strong PFF receiving grade and yards per route run make him an attractive option, especially when given playing time.
Logan Thomas (TE – WAS)
Time Stamp: 38:09
Logan Thomas has favorable matchups against the Chicago Bears and Atlanta Falcons in the next two weeks. These teams have been generous to tight ends, making Thomas a top-tier option. Additionally, consider adding the Detroit Lions’ defense for their favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers.
Target the Chicago Bears with Your Streaming Defenses
Time Stamp: 39:51
If you’re streaming defenses, target the Chicago Bears offense. With a struggling offense and Justin Fields as the second-most-sacked quarterback of 2023, they are a prime target for fantasy defenses.
Players to Consider Dropping
Time Stamp: 17:21
It’s not just about who to add; it’s also about who to let go. Consider dropping Kareem Hunt and AJ Dillon. Hunt is not a priority pickup, and Dillon’s value is limited with Aaron Jones.
Now that you have the inside scoop on the top waiver wire pickups for Week 5, it’s time to strengthen your fantasy football roster. Make sure to subscribe to the FantasyPros YouTube Channel for more advice throughout the week.
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