With your draft in the books, and the season around the corner/ started, you can still make some free agent and waiver wire stashes ahead of Week 1. These plays are ones that could pay off in the opening weeks, but the majority are ones that will ‘come good’ down the line. Depending on your league settings, you could put these on your IR spot until they are healthy and available.
Kyler Murray (QB, ARI)
Kyler Murray, the dynamic quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, is making a return after an ACL injury in January. Despite some skepticism around the Cardinals’ prospects this season, Murray’s fantasy upside is undeniable. The team has expressed its willingness to put him back on the field once he’s healthy.
Before his injury, Murray was averaging a stellar 18.8 fantasy points per game, showcasing his dual-threat ability with 6.24 rushing yards per attempt. Given his potential, Murray could be a valuable late-season addition, either as a late-round pick or a waiver wire steal. Don’t hesitate to secure this high-upside quarterback for your fantasy roster and stash him on IR until he’s ready to go.
Jameson Williams (WR, DET)
Jameson Williams, the young wide receiver for the Detroit Lions, presents an intriguing upside. At just 22 years old, he has the potential to become a breakout star in the NFL. While he hasn’t seen much action yet, his first snap as a rookie resulted in a 40+ yard touchdown, highlighting his big-play ability.
Williams had an impressive college season, with a PFF grade of 81.6 in 2021. Although you’ll need some patience, as he’s expected to make his debut in Week 7 against the Baltimore Ravens, his talent is worth the wait. With his only competition looking like Marvin Jones, Josh Reynolds, Kalif Raymond, and Antoine Green, Williams could be a late-season fantasy gem.
De’vone Achane (RB, MIA)
De’vone Achane, the running back for the Miami Dolphins, is flying under the radar due to a preseason injury. However, he brings an exciting skill set to a Mike McDaniel-led offense. While concerns arose after his injury, the crowded Miami backfield has kept his draft stock relatively low.
With Jeff Wilson on IR for the first four games and Achane reportedly practicing before Week 1, he could emerge as Miami’s future running back. In college, Achane showcased pass-catching ability, catching 36 of 44 targets in his final year at Texas A&M. If he falls past his ADP of 191 on Sleeper or 116 on ESPN, he’s a player worth keeping an eye out for, especially if he falls to waivers.
Honorable Mentions:
Sean Tucker, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Reports suggest Tucker could be the goal-line bruiser behind Rashaad White, making him a valuable late-season addition.
Nico Collins, WR, Houston Texans: With C.J. Stroud, the 2nd overall pick in the draft, throwing him the ball, Collins has potential to make noise in Houston.
Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints: Johnson’s upside mixed with Derrick Carr’s love for targeting the tight end position could make him a target in the passing game, especially in the red zone.
Sam Howell, QB, Washington Commanders: Howell offers rushing upside and a wealth of young offensive weapons, making him a reliable bye-week fill-in with starter upside.
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Image Credit: Kirby Lee – USA TODAY Sports
