As the NFL season kicks off, scouting the waiver wire can be crucial, especially if your auto-draft resulted in stellar picks like Joe Mixon and Chris Godwin. It’s definitely worthwhile to snag players who might not be highly owned yet; you could end up with some solid trade fodder or reliable fantasy contributors. So, let’s check out some players to consider who are currently on less than 60% of rosters in Yahoo Leagues.
I think Lawrence could be a valuable pick here, mainly because he’s got Liam Cohen at the helm. Last season, his performance was pretty average, but let’s face it—his coaching situation was a disaster. Transitioning from Urban Meyer to Cohen could really change things. We don’t know how effective those changes will be just yet, but I’m optimistic about this situation. Plus, he kicks off with a favorable matchup against a vulnerable Panthers defense, which, if he capitalizes on, might make him the go-to waiver wire QB for Week 2.
Michael Penix Jr., Falcons
Now, I’m not as high on Penix as I am on Lawrence, but he does have some impressive playmakers around him, which is a plus. He also faces a weak defensive division, specifically the Buccaneers, who allowed eight touchdowns in the previous season. With a struggling defense to contend with, I think Penix might end up passing more than the team intends.
Then there’s Gordon. While he may not have Achane’s breakneck speed, he showed he could help Mostert get over 1,000 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns last season. So, I mean, there’s that to consider.
Nick Chubb, Dameon Pierce, and Dare Ogunbowale are currently leading, and once Mixon is back to full health, he could complicate matters for Marks. This raises genuine concerns about Marks’ workload moving forward. Sure, it’s logical to consider cutting him for someone with better opportunities, but I really think he’s the best back on the team and will be crucial early on due to his receiving skills. I’d like to see how things unfold after the first week before making any drastic decisions, but I feel compelled to keep him on my roster.
Fingers crossed that a high-upside player like Mims gets off to a strong start this season. If not, they can always pivot to another promising option. However, Mims looks geared up to take that leap. The second-year receiver has taken on a full-time role in the preseason, and if he continues to be utilized effectively, he could become a significant threat.
Tetairooa Macmillan is the top receiver in Carolina, but his presence along with Adam Thielen and Jalen Coker should create solid opportunities for Leggett. MacMillan wasn’t the ideal first receiver, but he fits better in a secondary role where he can scatter defenses. I see potential for Leggett’s performance to elevate alongside Bryce Young this season.
Henry is yet another reliable target for Drake May. Even when Steffon Diggs is folded into the mix, I’m hoping the offense kicks into gear this year. Last season, he had just two touchdowns, which limits his scoring chances. Thankfully, he starts the season with a favorable matchup at home against the Raiders. If he finds the end zone, he could become a top waiver wire pick.
Lastly, Okonkwo is poised to break into the top five fantasy tight ends. He has a good shot at getting the targets he needs, and he was utilized as a full-time player during the preseason—quite the change from last year. If he keeps this momentum, he’ll definitely be in those top discussions as the season progresses.
