It’s hard to believe that we are headed into Week Eleven of the season, and that fantasy football playoffs are right around the corner. As we head towards the final stretch, let’s take a look at a handful of streaming options and talent worth stashing on your bench. These are the players who can help you through your playoff run, and they’re available on the waiver wire in at least 50% of leagues.
Colin Kaepernick (QB - SF): Kaepernick was a risky pickup when he took over for San Francisco, but he’s been solid over his past four match-ups. While he stumbled slightly in Week Seven, he still managed around 14 points (depending on your league settings, of course). Over the past two weeks, he’s tallied 608 yards and three touchdowns, with only one interception and one fumble over that span. He has a tough bout against New England this week, but a decent schedule down the stretch. He will face the Jets, Falcons and Lions over the final few weeks, all of whom rank in the bottom half of passing defenses. If you need a QB option, Kaepernick is one of the best available.
(ESPN: 14.2% owned)
Tyreek Hill (WR - KC): Hill has been a big play or bust option over the past few weeks, scoring two touchdowns in his last five games. In his scoreless performances, he didn’t break five points, even in PPR leagues. Last week was (hopefully) a turning point, as Hill reeled in 10 catches for 89 yards, elevating him to a legitimate starting option in PPR leagues. Hill will also be a viable option in standard leagues, especially if he continues to develop as one of Alex Smith’s top targets.
(ESPN: 10% owned)
Eddie Royal and Cameron Meredith (WRs - CHI): Meredith and Royal’s values get a big boost following the news that Bears wideout Alshon Jeffery will miss the next four games after violating the league’s policy regarding PEDs. With Kevin White on IR, both Royal and Meredith should see an improved workload. Either one could be a nice streaming option until Jeffery returns.
(ESPN: 13.6% owned, 20.3% owned)
Rishard Matthews (WR - TEN): Matthews has scored six touchdowns and posted 303 yards over the past six weeks. Averaging only about 50 yards per game, it is his nose for the end zone makes him especially valuable. QB Marcus Mariota is having a very successful fantasy season and Matthews seems to be finding his place in the Tennessee offense. He looks like a solid flex option moving forward, worth an add in most leagues.
(ESPN: 35.1% owned)
Sammy Watkins (WR - BUF): Watkins’ timetable for return appears to be edging ever closer, so it’s time to stash him if you have the space. The Bills’ receiver could make his return as early as Week Twelve, though the status of his injury is still up in the air. Despite the questions surrounding his health, Watkins has potential to be a huge asset down the stretch. Heading into the playoffs, that makes him worthy of a bench slot.
(ESPN: 29.9% owned)
C.J. Prosise (RB - SEA): I loved this kid going into the draft, and I’ve been waiting for the opportunity to put him in the waiver addition column. All year Prosise has been lost in the crowded Seahawks’ backfield, but last week he finally broke loose for 66 rushing yards and 87 receiving yards on seven catches. Thomas Rawls is set to return soon, but Prosise should have earned himself a spot in the mix with this performance against New England. He’s worth an add, particularly in PPR leagues, as he could emerge as a big part of the Seattle run game.
(ESPN: 30.7% owned)
Kenneth Dixon (RB - BAL): The Ravens have repeatedly said that they want to get Dixon more involved, but last weekend was the first time it actually happened. The rookie running back had 38 rushing yards along with five catches for 42 yards against Cleveland, his first productive game of the season. If Baltimore continues to feed Dixon a heavier workload, he could emerge as a decent flex option moving forward. With only one relevant game under his belt, he is still a risk, but there’s decent upside potential.
(ESPN: 10.5% owned)
Rob Kelley (RB - WAS): With Matt Jones a healthy scratch last week, Kelley took over and had a solid performance against the stout Vikings’ defense. Kelley carried the ball 22 times for 97 yards and could potentially hold on to his starting role in Washington over Jones. He barely squeaks under the 50% owned mark, but if he’s available in your league, he is worth an add.
(ESPN: 45.3% owned)
Vernon Davis (TE - WAS): Jordan Reed owners are not happy about this (including myself), but Davis’ success did not end with Reed’s return from injury. The tight end hauled in three receptions for 66 yards and a touchdown on Sunday, surpassing Reed’s production and proving that Davis will continue to be a part of the offense in Washington. If you’re looking for a tight end, Davis might be your guy.
(ESPN: 22.8% owned)
What are your thoughts, fantasy fans? Is there anyone else you are targeting on the waiver wire this week? Are you stashing any players for your potential playoff run? Use the comments section to discuss the waiver wire, or talk fantasy strategy at your leisure. Best of luck with the waiver wire pickups this week.