Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Targets: Jaleel McLaughlin, Chuba Hubbard, Tyjae Spears, Ezekiel Elliott

We will have you covered throughout the 2023 fantasy football season with our bevy of tools, including our Waiver Wire Assistant. Find the top available players and get detailed analysis on how potential waiver wire adds will impact your team. Of course, our team of analysts will also have written advice each week. Check out some of our top waiver wire targets for the week below. And here is all of our fantasy football waiver wire advice for Week 5.

Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Targets

Written by Bo McBrayer

Jaleel McLaughlin (DEN): 3% rostered

Next Opponents: NYJ, @KC, GB
True value: $13
Desperate need: $21
Budget-minded: $6

Analysis: The undrafted, undersized rookie from Youngstown State had an incredible preseason. He was pressed into action when Javonte Williams injured his hip in Denver’s Week 4 game against the Bears. McLaughlin turned his 10 touches into more than 100 scrimmage yards and cashed in with a receiving touchdown. Although it’s unclear how much time Williams will miss, there was no doubt who the better RB was between McLaughlin and Samaje Perine. I don’t expect many more surprise performers to make waves on waivers from the RB position, so I’ll pursue McLaughlin aggressively, even though the Broncos won’t get to play the Bears again.

Chuba Hubbard (CAR): 25% rostered

Next Opponents: @DET, @MIA, BYE
True value: $9
Desperate need: $15
Budget-minded: $5

Analysis: The increase in volume for Chuba Hubbard with Miles Sanders on the mend from a groin injury unfortunately did not translate into very many fantasy points – 53 yards on 16 touches does not pay the bills. The waiver streets for RBs are cutthroat and lack anyone exciting, but your situation might lead you to add Hubbard in desperation. Don’t get carried away with your FAAB bid, regardless.

Ezekiel Elliott (NE): 48% rostered

Next Opponents: NO, @LV, BUF
True value: $8
Desperate need: $16
Budget-minded: $4

Analysis: Zeke’s role in the Patriots backfield has grown each week alongside Rhamondre Stevenson. The trouble is that the Week 4 matchup with the mighty Cowboys was brutal, and Zeke’s “revenge game” was much ado about nothing in the Patriots’ blowout loss. The Saints are tough too, but this week’s game should be closer. I’m circling the game in Las Vegas as a spot where Elliott should have a throwback performance. If Zeke is still hanging around on waivers in your league, remedy that.

Tyjae Spears (TEN): 24% rostered

Next Opponents: @IND, BAL, BYE
True value: $7
Desperate need: $13
Budget-minded: $4

Analysis: Tyjae Spears‘ role in the Titans’ offense is perfect. He has maintained a nice little piece of the running game to spell Derrick Henry while also subbing in for passing situations. The rookie from Tulane has caught multiple passes in three consecutive games and has already showcased his ability to make big plays in the open field. I foresee his role expanding as the season progresses, in which case he goes from stash candidate to waiver add on the cheap who will pay dividends in the second half of the season.