Welcome to Week 2 Exempt Wire Watch!
The 2025 NFL season has kicked off, and fantasy football is also in full swing. Many of you might already be searching for ways to bolster your receiving corps after the first week. Don’t worry; we’ve got some options for you.
Here’s a look at some wide receivers who made an impression in the first week. It’s a good idea to check the exemption wire before the second week rolls around. We define exemptions as players found on rosters in about 60% of leagues.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (8.7%)
Well, it seems Johnston is finally breaking out… at least for now. The third-year wide receiver had an impressive start in Brazil, catching five passes for two touchdowns and 76 yards during the team’s 27-21 win over the Kansas City Chiefs. He boasted an average of 15.8 yards per catch and ended up as the highest-scoring fantasy receiver in PPR leagues with 24.9 points by Sunday afternoon.
After two lackluster seasons, Johnston might be on the verge of a breakout year. He could be available on the exemption wire in many leagues, so it’s worth checking out.
Week 2 matchup: @Las Vegas Raiders, 10pm (Monday night)
Keenan Allen, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (62.3%)
While Johnston was making headlines, Allen also had a solid performance in his first game back with the Chargers. He recorded seven receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown, reaffirming his role as a dependable player. You might still find Allen available on the exemption wire, and it could be a good idea to place a bid before someone else does.
Week 2 matchup: @Las Vegas Raiders, 10pm (Monday night)
Hollywood Brown, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (36.6%)
Brown was certainly a favorite target for Patrick Mahomes during the game, snagging 10 receptions for 99 yards. He was the most targeted player for Kansas City, with 16 passes thrown his way. With some uncertainty surrounding other receivers in Kansas City, Brown could see a lot of opportunities moving forward.
Week 2 matchup: vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 4:25pm
Romeo Doubs, WR, Green Bay Packers (17.9%)
The Packers faced the Detroit Lions and came out on the wrong end of a 27-13 score. While offensive performances were muted overall, Doubs displayed his potential with two receptions totaling 68 yards. It’s a bit of a risk, but he might be worth stashing on your bench until the right matchup comes along.
Week 2 matchup: vs. Washington Commanders, 8:15pm (Thursday night)
Calvin Austin III, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers (4.4%)
Pittsburgh managed to squeak by the New York Jets with a close 34-32 win. During this game, Austin caught four passes for 70 yards and a touchdown. If the Steelers’ offense continues to perform well, Austin could have a breakout season.
Week 2 matchup: vs. Seattle Seahawks, 1pm
Kayshon Boutte, WR, New England Patriots (2.0%)
The Patriots fell to the Las Vegas Raiders, but Boutte turned in a solid performance, catching six of eight targets for 103 yards. He scored 16.3 points in PPR leagues, and as the season progresses, he could establish a strong connection with Drake May. There’s potential for Boutte to be a valuable player, possibly even a steal from the exemption wire.
Week 2 matchup: @Miami Dolphins, 1pm
