As the fantasy football playoffs loom on the horizon, savvy managers are scouring the waiver wire for hidden gems that could propel their teams to glory. In a week filled with marquee matchups and surprising performances, one player stood out above the rest: Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson.
Richardson’s Triumphant Return
After a brief hiatus, Richardson reclaimed his starting role in Week 12 and promptly reminded everyone why he was such a highly touted prospect. The dual-threat sensation torched the New York Jets defense, accumulating a season-high 28.0 fantasy points through a combination of precise passing and electric running.
With upcoming matchups against the porous Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings secondaries, Richardson has the potential to be a league-winning acquisition for fantasy managers. If he’s still available in your league, make him your top priority on the waiver wire this week.
Other Quarterback Options
While Richardson is the crown jewel, several other signal-callers are worth considering for managers in need:
- Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams: Stafford looked rejuvenated with a healthy Cooper Kupp back in the lineup, posting a season-best 27.8 fantasy points against the Patriots.
- Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins: Tagovailoa continues to thrive in Mike McDaniel’s offense, delivering his most productive outing of the year against the Raiders.
- Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears: The rookie is showing signs of progress under new offensive coordinator Thomas Brown, making him a high-upside QB2.
Running Back Roulette
Injuries and bye weeks have thinned the running back ranks, but astute managers can still find value on the waiver wire:
Roschon Johnson, Chicago Bears: With a balanced workload and a stout offensive line, Johnson has flex appeal in deeper leagues.
Johnson and David Montgomery combined for 27 touches against the Packers, so there’s potential for more work ahead.
– Anonymous source close to the Bears
Other running backs to target include Tank Bigsby (Jaguars), Zamir White (Raiders), and Cam Akers (Vikings). Each has a path to increased touches in the coming weeks.
Wide Receiver Watch
As the fantasy playoffs approach, these wideouts could provide a crucial boost to your receiving corps:
- Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears: The rookie has quickly emerged as a favorite target for Caleb Williams, scoring 12-plus fantasy points in each of his last three games with 7-plus targets.
- Christian Watson, Green Bay Packers: Though the Packers’ receiving hierarchy is still taking shape, Watson’s talent is undeniable. He’s worth a speculative add in most formats.
- Marquez Valdes-Scantling, New Orleans Saints: “MVS” has scored 16-plus fantasy points in back-to-back contests and should continue to see ample opportunities following the team’s Week 12 bye.
Tight End Targets
With six teams on bye and injuries mounting, these tight ends could provide a timely boost:
- Will Dissly, Los Angeles Chargers: Dissly led the Chargers in receiving yards against the Bengals and has a dream schedule for tight ends down the stretch.
- Taysom Hill, New Orleans Saints: The ultimate wild card, Hill erupted for 41.5 fantasy points against the Browns, showcasing his unique versatility in the Saints’ creative offense.
As always, be sure to consider your roster’s specific needs and league settings when making waiver wire decisions. But don’t be afraid to take a chance on high-upside players like Richardson, who could be the key to fantasy football glory.
