Waiver Wire Watch: Week 15
Hey there! Welcome to Week 15 of Waiver Wire Watch!
It’s finally here; the fantasy playoffs have arrived. All those lineup decisions you’ve been making are coming to a head. Whether you’re gunning for that trophy or just trying to avoid being the league’s “Sacco,” now’s the time to get serious. Sure, there’s still the Monday night game between the Eagles and Chargers tonight, but it’s not too soon to start bolstering your roster for the playoffs.
Let’s take a look at some players worth considering on the waiver wire for Week 15. Also, just a reminder: we consider exempt players as those rostered in up to 60% of leagues. With bye weeks in the rearview, it’s game time for all teams.
Sam Darnold, QB, Seattle Seahawks (40.4%)
Darnold and the Seahawks had a solid win against the Falcons, finishing 37-9, putting the team in position for the NFC West title. He logged 249 passing yards, tossed three touchdowns, and had one interception. Plus, he added 23 rushing yards, showcasing his mobility.
He’s consistently among the better QBs, recording a success rate of 51.8%. He’s also ranked in the top 10 for passing yards, passing EPA, and ADOT. With an average of 15.4 fantasy points per game on around 40% of rosters, Darnold might just be what you need if you’re looking for a dependable QB in the playoffs.
Week 15 matchup: vs. Indianapolis Colts, 4:25 p.m. ET
Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars (50.7%)
The Jaguars achieved a crucial win, taking down the Colts 36-19 and securing first place in the AFC South. Lawrence wasn’t particularly efficient, completing only 56.7% of his passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns, but he got the job done and took the win for the fourth consecutive year.
Like Darnold, Lawrence is among the higher-paid QBs in fantasy this season. Despite being on half of the league’s rosters, he’s still ranked in the top 12. With the Jets coming up, now’s a great time to grab him.
Week 15 matchup: vs. New York Jets, 1 p.m. ET
Blake Collum, RB, Los Angeles Rams (34.1%)
Collum is securing his spot in the Rams’ plans, following a strong showing with a fantastic performance in their 45-17 win over the Cardinals. He outperformed starter Kyren Williams, carrying 12 times for 128 yards and scoring twice.
He’s seen 10 or more carries in four of his last five games, making him a legitimate handcuff. If you’re managing Williams and haven’t gotten Collum yet, what are you waiting for?
Week 15 matchup: vs. Detroit Lions, 4:25 p.m. ET
Devin Neal, RB, New Orleans Saints (58.3%)
The Saints pulled off a surprising 24-20 victory against the Buccaneers in the rain, with Neal playing a crucial part. He recorded 19 carries for 71 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter, marking a career high for him and finishing in the top 15 for fantasy running backs this week.
This opportunity arose due to Alvin Kamara’s MCL sprain, which bodes well for Neal’s future playing time. The Saints are likely to keep featuring him, and with 58% of rosters, this could be your last chance to claim him this season.
Week 15 matchup: vs. Carolina Panthers, 4:25 p.m. ET
Christian Watson, WR, Green Bay Packers (48.8%)
Watson followed up an 80-yard, one-touchdown game against a rival with an 89-yard, two-touchdown performance against another district opponent, helping secure a win over the Bears and a spot at the top of the NFC North.
Since coming back in Week 8, he’s been a key asset for Jordan Love, ranking in the top 15 for both ADOT and yards per route among receivers with at least 100 routes. The upcoming game against the Broncos looks challenging, but grabbing him could be wise.
Week 15 matchup: @ Denver Broncos, 4:25 p.m. ET.
Alec Pierce, WR, Indianapolis Colts (45.3%)
The Colts are facing significant challenges after their defeat to the Jaguars, amplified by Daniel Jones’ injury. Riley Leonard will have to step up as the new QB, and one of his reliable options will be Pierce, who caught five passes for 80 yards in the loss.
Pierce continues to impress, leading the league with 20.2 yards per catch. Given the rookie QB’s need for dependable targets, Pierce could see plenty of opportunities.
Week 15 matchup: @ Seattle Seahawks, 4:25 p.m. ET
Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Cleveland Browns (52.8%)
The Browns suffered a close defeat to the Titans, officially eliminating them from playoff contention, but some young players on the offensive line, including Fannin, are showing promise. He recorded a career-high eight catches for 114 yards and an incredible touchdown catch in the fourth quarter.
This marks two touchdowns in two games for Fannin, who’s been building a solid connection with quarterback Shedule Sanders. Keep an eye on tight ends available on the waiver wire, as he’s emerging as a key player.
Week 15 matchup: @ Chicago Bears, 1 p.m. ET.
Dawson Knox, TE, Buffalo Bills (2.3%)
The Bills had quite the game against the Bengals, winning 39-34 in snowy conditions. Knox contributed significantly, leading the team with 93 yards on six receptions.
Notably, this was the fourth time in five games he’s received at least four targets, and he’s starting to catch Josh Allen’s attention. With the Bills facing the Patriots this week, Knox might be a valuable addition to your roster.
Week 15 matchup: @ New England Patriots, 1 p.m. ET
