Welcome to Week 4 of the Exemption Wire Watch
What a wild weekend in the NFL! Special teams really played a big role in some matchups. Whether you’re celebrating a Fantasy League victory or dealing with a tough loss, you’re probably eager to strengthen your roster for the upcoming week. That’s where we come in.
As we dive into the highlights from Week 3, it’s worth noting that you should be scanning the exemption wire as we approach Week 4. The competitive nature of the league means we’ll see teams making crucial moves now, especially since it’s the last chance before the teams finalize their rosters.
Daniel Jones, QB, Indianapolis Colts (29.7%)
Daniel Jones of the Indianapolis Colts had a standout game, leading his team to a 3-0 record in the AFC South after defeating the Tennessee Titans 41-20 on Sunday. He threw for 228 yards, completing 18 of 25 passes, and secured a touchdown. It was a strong performance, especially since Jonathan Taylor contributed three touchdowns, easing the pressure on the quarterback.
Jones is now positioned as the second-best fantasy QB with 68.1 points after the third week. Honestly, even his biggest fans couldn’t have anticipated this early success. He remains a solid option on the exemption wire, especially for those facing quarterback challenges.
Week 4 matchup: @Los Angeles Rams, 4:05 PM
Genosmith, QB, Las Vegas Raiders (19.9%)
Despite a lopsided 41-24 loss to the Washington Commanders, Genosmith had a decent outing. He amassed 289 yards and three touchdowns for a total of 26.1 fantasy points, following a rough stretch of three interceptions in previous games.
The Raiders have their issues, mostly with the offensive line, but Smith still has potential. It might be worth considering him if you’re looking to enhance your depth.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Chicago Bears, 4:25 PM
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Washington Commanders (1.4%)
In the game against the Raiders, Jeremy McNichols shined, especially after Austin Ekeler’s injury led to more opportunities in the Washington backfield. He rushed for 78 yards and a touchdown on just four carries, showcasing his explosiveness.
McNichols shares carries with a couple of other backs, which can be frustrating for fantasy managers. But if he maintains that level of performance, he might become a reliable option for the Commanders.
Week 4 matchup: @Atlanta Falcons, 1 PM
Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals (53.8%)
Trey Benson had a substantial role in the Cardinals’ narrow 16-15 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, with 10 carries for 42 yards and three targets for nine yards. Unfortunately, the game took a turn when James Connor suffered a significant ankle injury in the third quarter.
The severity of Connor’s injury remains unclear, but he might be sidelined for a while. This situation could elevate Benson to the starting role, making him a valuable add if you’re eyeing running backs on the exemption wire.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Seattle Seahawks, 8:15 PM (Thursday night)
Tre Tucker, WR, Las Vegas Raiders (2.9%)
Tre Tucker turned heads this week, despite the Raiders’ loss. He caught eight of nine targets for 145 yards and three touchdowns, racking up an impressive 40.9 fantasy points in PPR formats.
The connection between Tucker and Genosmith is noteworthy, with Smith targeting Tucker a considerable number of times over the past two weeks. This could position Tucker as a key option in the Raiders’ passing game moving forward.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Chicago Bears, 4:25 PM
Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (28.7%)
Quentin Johnston had another good game in the Chargers’ 23-20 win over the Denver Broncos, catching six passes for 89 yards. He ranks among the top five in receiving yards after Sunday’s games.
With Justin Herbert doing well in the air and other key players in the mix, Johnston remains a low-percentage roster player. Anyone who can snag him off the exemption wire might find themselves with a valuable addition.
Week 4 matchup: @New York Giants, 1 PM
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots (48.5%)
Hunter Henry contributed significantly despite the Patriots’ narrow 21-14 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He led all tight ends this week with two touchdowns, catching eight of 11 targets for 90 yards.
He has established himself as a prime target for Drake May over the last three weeks, proving to be a red-zone threat. If you’re seeking to boost your tight end options this week, Henry is worth considering.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Carolina Panthers, 1 PM
Chig Okonkwo, TE, Tennessee Titans (22.2%)
In Tennessee’s tough loss against Indianapolis, tight end Chig Okonkwo stood out with five receptions for 66 yards. He’s shown growth with each passing week.
This is something the Titans should keep in mind, especially as they seek their first victory of the season. He could be a useful depth piece on your roster.
Week 4 matchup: @Houston Texans, 1 PM
