It’s time for the fourth week exemption wire watch!
This past weekend in the NFL was quite eventful, with special teams making a significant impact in various games. Whether you’re celebrating a Fantasy League victory or just feeling the sting of a loss, you might be thinking about how to strengthen your roster for the upcoming week. That’s exactly why we’re here.
Let’s dive into some standout running backs from week three. These players should definitely be on your radar as you prepare for the fourth week. We’re considering them as potential starters for about 60% of teams, so keep that in mind since this is the last week before all teams get activated.
Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals (54.6%)
Trey Benson saw plenty of action in Arizona’s narrow 16-15 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers, racking up 10 carries for 42 yards, along with three targets for nine yards. However, the game was overshadowed by an unfortunate ankle injury to James Connor in the third quarter.
Connor is out for the rest of the season, which could thrust Benson into the starting role as the main running back for Arizona. He was already a popular handcuff option, owned in about 54% of fantasy leagues. So, if you’re interested, now would be a good time to place a waiver wire bid.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Seattle Seahawks, 8:15pm (Thursday night)
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Washington Commanders (1.4%)
In the game against the Raiders, with Austin Ekeler sidelined, Jeremy McNichols took advantage of his opportunity, making a significant impact and leading the team with four carries for 78 yards, scoring a touchdown in a home win.
McNichols shares the backfield with Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Chris Rodriguez, which can be frustrating for fantasy managers. However, if he maintains the explosiveness he showed last Sunday, he might become a reliable asset for the Commanders.
Week 4 matchup: @Atlanta Falcons, 1pm
Blake Corum, RB, Los Angeles Rams (16.7%)
While Kylen Williams is clearly the top running back for the Rams, Blake Corum is starting to carve out his niche within the offense. He logged eight carries for a personal best of 53 yards in a 33-26 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles and had a touchdown the week prior.
Corum has only 14 carries over three games but has shown impressive efficiency, with a success rate of 71.43% and 0.52 expected points added per rush. He could see an increase in carries soon, making him a solid handcuff player for Williams.
Week 4 matchup: vs. Indianapolis Colts, 4:05pm
Ollie Gordon II, RB, Miami Dolphins (31.6%)
The Dolphins are struggling at 0-3, but there were some bright spots in their 31-21 loss against the Buffalo Bills. Rookie Ollie Gordon II had a respectable outing with nine carries for 38 yards, scoring a touchdown in the first quarter.
Gordon is essentially the only running back on the roster besides starter Devon Achane. This presents a unique opportunity for him to become a solid handcuff and potential red-zone option. If Miami’s situation doesn’t improve, he could become even more valuable.
Week 4 matchup: Against the New York Jets, 7:15pm (Monday night)
Hassan Haskins, RB, Los Angeles Chargers (1.1%)
The Chargers improved to 3-0 with a close 23-20 win, but they suffered a big setback with Najee Harris’s Achilles injury. Rookie Omarion Hampton is currently the starter, but Haskins is expected to fill in during the backup’s recovery. He has been involved in special teams and might contribute to the offense as needed.
Week 4 matchup: @New York Giants, 1pm
