Fantasy Football Waiver Watch: Playoff Edition

It’s here (for most leagues): the fantasy football playoffs. If you’re in, congratulations on your season. If you missed out, well, you’re probably not reading the waiver addition column this week. The postseason is an especially tricky part of fantasy management, and a lot of pressure falls on your bench to come through in a pinch. Having backups ready in case of issues with your starters is hugely important. So this week, we’re looking at the waiver wire to find the players with the most potential to win you a championship.

An important side note:
If you play in a keeper or dynasty league, this is the time to grab those IR’d players off the waiver wire if you can afford to. I picked Adrian Peterson up last week, and there are plenty of others still available (C.J. Anderson, Ameer Abdullah). Get your hands on them now while everyone else is distracted with postseason acquisitions.

Malcolm Mitchell (WR - NE): While I’m hesitant to trust most of the Patriots’ offense when it comes to my fantasy roster (they just spread the ball around too much), it’s hard to ignore Mitchell. With three consecutive solid performances, the wideout is on a hot streak that he could very well ride into the fantasy playoffs. He’s accumulated 222 yards and three touchdowns over his last three matchups.
(ESPN: 19.9% owned)

Tyler Lockett (WR - SEA): Lockett is back, he’s healthy, and he had a huge touchdown last week against Carolina. The Seahawks’ wide receiver looks primed for a return to fantasy relevancy, just in time for the fantasy postseason.
(ESPN: 25.1% owned)

Justin Forsett (RB - DEN): An interesting addition to the Broncos’ depth chart, Forsett could be in line for a decent role behind starting back Devontae Booker. It’s still completely unclear how much of a role Forsett will play in Denver, but he could be worth a stash if you need help at running back and have a bench slot to take a risk with.
(ESPN: 4.6% owned)

Ladarius Green (TE - PIT): Green is emerging as a solid target in the wake of several injuries to the Steelers’ offense. Last week, he managed 110 yards and a touchdown and could continue his rise through playoffs. Especially if you’re riding the Jordan Reed or Rob Gronkowski injury trains, he’s worth a grab.
(ESPN: 11.8% owned)

What do you think, fantasy owners? Is there anyone else you’re prioritizing on the waiver wire this week? Feel free to use the comments section to ask questions, give advice, or brag about your fantasy prowess and playoff berth. Good luck in the first round.