Week 13 Waiver Wire Watch for Running Backs
Hello! It’s that time again—Thanksgiving week is here, and we’re diving into the thick of the 2025 NFL season. This means playoffs are just around the corner in most fantasy football leagues, and as any fantasy manager knows, it’s crucial to tidy up your roster now before it’s too late.
In this guide, we’ll discuss some running backs you might want to snag from the waiver wire as we approach Week 13. Just a quick heads-up: we consider players who are available in up to 60% of leagues. This week, all teams are active, so you won’t be caught off guard with player defaults. Plus, there are three games on Thanksgiving and one on Black Friday. So, when setting your lineup, be mindful—no one wants to show up on Sunday only to discover a friend has already played an athlete you were counting on.
Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (52.3%)
Hunt has stepped in for Isaiah Pacheco recently and had quite a game in Sunday’s overtime victory against the Colts, clocking in 30 carries for 104 yards and a touchdown, along with a few catches. This marks four straight games with a rushing touchdown for Hunt, bringing him to six touchdowns this season. Even if Pacheco bounces back from his knee issue, it seems likely the Chiefs will keep Hunt as a primary back.
Week 13 matchups: @ Dallas Cowboys, 4:30pm ET (Thursday afternoon)
Kyle Monangai, RB, Chicago Bears (57.8%)
The Bears came away with a 31-28 win over the Steelers on Sunday, and Monangai played a role in that success. The rookie from Rutgers managed to pile on 48 yards from 12 carries and secured a crucial touchdown in the fourth quarter. This marks Chicago’s third consecutive game scoring as the team has found its rhythm. Monangai has been a reliable backup to D’Andre Swift, and he entered Week 12 as one of the few running backs with a positive performance. If you’re Swift’s manager and haven’t handcuffed him yet, or if you’re just in need of RB depth, consider acting fast—Monangai could disappear from the waiver wire soon.
Week 13 matchups: @ Philadelphia Eagles, 3pm ET (Friday afternoon)
Dylan Sampson, RB, Cleveland Browns (9.6%)
Shedeur Sanders has been grabbing headlines after leading the Browns to a 24-10 victory over the Raiders, and he had plenty of help. His first career touchdown pass connected with Sampson, who caught a screen for 66 yards. The Browns were able to seal the deal against a struggling AFC North team in the fourth quarter. Sampson hasn’t seen much action this year, but he had his best outing since Week 1. With several rookies stepping up late this season, including Sampson, there’s the potential for him to add to his performance when they face the 49ers this Sunday.
Week 13 matchups: vs. San Francisco 49ers, 1 p.m. ET.
Devin Neal, RB, New Orleans Saints (4.7%)
Neal, like some other rookies getting more touches lately, was notably involved in the Saints’ loss to the Falcons. He finished with seven carries for 18 yards and five receptions totaling 43 yards. This surge in involvement came after Alvin Kamara left the game due to injury. Kamara’s MCL strain means he could be sidelined for several weeks, opening the door for Neal to take the starting role heading into the holiday season. This could be a significant chance for him to showcase his skills. So, if you’re eyeing some fantasy sleepers, Neal might just fit the bill.
Week 13 matchups: @ Miami Dolphins, 1 p.m. ET
