In a week where some big offensive names went down with injuries, we highlight the players who are ready to step up and produce at a high level. Our top category is bursting with three players that are capable of being immediate fantasy starters, including a tight end for those in need. Two more tight ends make the list, along with several running backs and wide receivers. There’s something for everyone this week!
With the announcement that Doug Martin is done for the season, James will assume the role as lead back for the Buccaneers. In fact, he is the only viable back for Tampa Bay, so he immediately projects to get the ball 15-20 times per game. He is also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, so look for him to get plenty of targets as well. James will be the starter for the balance of the season, and is deserving of the top pick on this week’s waiver wire. Our friends at fleaflicker.com already have him in the top three, grab him while you can.
Reed has been gaining traction with the Redskins’ coaching staff, breaking out for 9/134/1 against Chicago this past week. Fred Davis was a healthy scratch, so Washington has the confidence that Reed can be the top tight end. Robert Griffin III clearly agrees, as Reed has a total of 13 catches for more than 200 yards in the last two games. That puts Reed into this week’s top waiver category. With so many tight ends injured, Reed is a player that can be an immediate fantasy starter.
Last week we had Boykin as a “Solid Pickup” based on the opportunity in front of him, and he did not disappoint. Aaron Rodgers hit him eight times for 103 yards and a touchdown against Cleveland. Boykin had a big day in his first game as a starter for the Packers. We expect these numbers to continue as the Packers continue to lean on him, especially with Jermichael Finley added to the growing list of pass catchers on the Green Bay sideline. He is still available in many leagues, but that will not be the case after this week. Grab him and start him with confidence.
Another Packer finds himself high on this week’s waiver listing. Quarless gets a mention in this space courtesy of the injury to Jermichael Finley. Much like Boykin last week, this is a speculative add, as we expect Finley to be out for a few weeks. The Packers are a team that like to use the tight end. Quarless is worth a look in all formats.
Playing against a depleted New England front seven, Ivory made the most of an opportunity where he ended up getting much more playing time than starter Bilal Powell. He was the most productive Jets’ runner, rushing a whopping 34 times and picking up 104 yards. The Jets have difficult matchups going forward, but as the Jets’ top ball carrier, Ivory is worth picking up and is even worth starting in a pinch.