Kicker Waiver Wire Watch: Week 12
Welcome to Week 12 of our Kicker Waiver Wire Watch! The NFL weekend has wrapped up, so there’s not much to review from those games right now. But with Thanksgiving approaching, it’s time to gear up for the fantasy playoffs that are just around the corner. Preparation is key.
In this update, we’re going to highlight a few kickers who might be worth picking up off the waiver wire ahead of Week 12. Just a quick note: we consider players who are rostered in 50% or fewer of leagues as exempt additions.
Teams on Bye in Week 12
- Denver Broncos
- Los Angeles Chargers
- Miami Dolphins
- Washington Commanders
Cairo Santos, K, Chicago Bears (25.2%)
The Bears are on quite a streak, and their 19-17 win against the Vikings really showcased that, largely due to Santos. He landed a clutch 48-yarder just as time expired, securing the first place in the NFC North. Even though he missed one kick, he still managed to score 13 points with four field goals and one PAT, racking up 16 fantasy points. It’s impressive that he’s hit double digits in four of his last five games, making him a solid option to consider adding to your roster.
Upcoming matchup: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, 1:00 p.m. ET
Zane Gonzalez, K, Atlanta Falcons (3.5%)
The Falcons haven’t had the best of seasons, but perhaps they’ve resolved their kicking issues, at least for the moment. Gonzalez was perfect in a tough 30-27 overtime loss; he made three PATs and two field goals, one of which tied the game in the last moments of the fourth quarter. So far, he hasn’t missed in his two games with the Falcons, and he could perform well again this Sunday in the Superdome against the struggling Saints.
Upcoming matchup: @ New Orleans Saints, 4:25 p.m. ET
Will Reichard, K, Minnesota Vikings (40.9%)
Reichard only managed five points during the Vikings’ loss to the Bears, but that’s largely due to the team’s offensive struggles. Nevertheless, he’s still among the top 10 fantasy kickers, averaging 9.1 fantasy points per game. If the Vikings want to maintain their playoff aspirations in the NFC, they’ll likely rely on him more in the coming weeks. Keep an eye on him as the next matchup approaches.
Upcoming matchup: @ Green Bay Packers, 1:00 p.m. ET
