Welcome to the fifth week exemption wire watch!

As we enter the fifth week of the 2025 NFL season, it’s another chance to review weekend performances. Whether you’re celebrating a win in your Fantasy League or dealing with a rough loss, chances are you’re looking for ways to strengthen your roster ahead of next week. That’s where we come in.

Here are some wide receivers from week four who might be worth grabbing off the exemption wire before week five. We consider exemptions as players available in about 60% of leagues. Keep in mind that byes kick in this week, so we’ll need to think carefully about our lineup strategy moving forward.

Teams on bye in week five: Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers, Pittsburgh Steelers

Wan’dale Robinson, WR, New York Giants (43%)

In New York’s surprising 21-18 win against the Los Angeles Chargers, Robinson had a quiet game, catching three of five targets for just 14 yards. However, the Giants faced significant injuries, losing Malik Nabers, a second-year wide receiver, to an ACL tear in his right knee for the rest of the season.

With Nabers out, Robinson steps up as the G-Men’s WR1, raising his potential value in fantasy. He has already surpassed his preseason ADP, and despite being kept in check for two weeks, he finished the fourth week among the top 25 fantasy receivers. Meanwhile, rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart is starting.

Week 5 Matchup: @New Orleans Saints, 1 PM

Romeo Doubs, WR, Green Bay Packers (31.3%)

In a thrilling 40-40 overtime tie against the Dallas Cowboys, Doubs made quite the impact. He caught six passes for 58 yards and three touchdowns—making him the first receiver this season to achieve a hat trick.

While the Packers’ receiver committee limits his opportunities, his performance on Sunday showed just how involved he can be in the red zone with quarterback Jordan Love. The Packers are on bye this week, but Doubs is definitely worth considering for the exemption wire.

Jalen Tolbert, WR, Dallas Cowboys (3.1%)

In the same game as Doubs, Tolbert made a spectacular catch that helped set up a critical field goal for Dallas. Starting to garner more attention from quarterback Dak Prescott, he caught four of his six targets for 61 yards, showcasing his potential.

With George Pickens now taking the lead as WR1 for the team, Tolbert’s opportunities are opening up. Given the defensive challenges the Cowboys face, there might be more chances for Tolbert to shine, boosting his fantasy value.

Week 5 Matchup: @New York Jets, 1 PM

Tyquan Thornton, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (15.5%)

Kansas City secured back-to-back victories, overpowering the Baltimore Ravens 37-20 on Sunday. Although Xavier Worthy returned from a shoulder injury to lead the receiving corps, Thornton made his presence known with an 11-yard touchdown catch.

Having held down the fort during previous absences, Thornton has earned quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ trust as a deep threat. This trust led to his third consecutive game with a touchdown reception. Even with the offensive expansion, Thornton still has a significant role, making him a strong candidate for the exemption wire.

Week 5 Matchup: @Jacksonville Jaguars, 8:15 PM (Monday night)

Luke McCaffrey, WR, Washington Commanders (1.1%)

Washington fell 34-27 to the Atlanta Falcons, and McCaffrey struggled again, catching two of three targets for 21 yards and a touchdown. This marks the second game in a row he found the end zone.

Even though his contributions have been limited, offensive coordinator Cliff Kingsbury has spoken highly of McCaffrey during training camp, suggesting he might finally be working his way into the game plan. With Jaden Daniels possibly returning next week, taking a chance on McCaffrey could be worthwhile if you’re looking to shake up your bench.

Week 5 Matchup: @Los Angeles Chargers, 4:25 PM