As the fantasy football season approaches its midway point, savvy managers are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve their rosters. While blockbuster deals involving elite players garner the most attention, sometimes the key to a championship run lies in identifying underrated talents who can provide a boost to your starting lineup. In this article, we’ll explore 11 players flying under the radar who could be excellent trade targets to elevate your fantasy team.
Chasing Upside: High-Ceiling Trade Targets
Tee Higgins, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Despite playing alongside superstar receiver Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins has quietly been one of the most consistent fantasy contributors this season. Over the past four weeks, Higgins has averaged an impressive 16.2 points per game, hauling in six catches for 75 yards while finding the end zone three times. His route-running prowess and rapport with quarterback Joe Burrow make him a weekly WR2 with WR1 upside in the high-powered Bengals offense.
Brian Robinson Jr., RB, Washington Commanders
The rookie running back has seized the lead role in the Commanders’ backfield, averaging 14.2 carries per game and scoring a touchdown in five of his six appearances. While his involvement in the passing game has been limited, Robinson’s north-south running style and ability to break tackles make him an appealing RB2 in an offense that ranks third in the league in scoring. As he continues to distance himself from Antonio Gibson on the depth chart, Robinson’s fantasy value should only rise.
Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Injuries have plagued Jonathan Taylor’s season, causing frustration among fantasy managers who invested a high draft pick in the elite running back. However, targeting Taylor now could pay massive dividends down the stretch. When healthy, the Colts’ workhorse is a matchup-proof RB1, evidenced by his 18.1 points per game average through the first four weeks. If you can acquire Taylor at a discounted price, the potential reward far outweighs the risk.
George Pickens, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
The arrival of rookie quarterback Russell Wilson has ignited George Pickens’ fantasy value in recent weeks. In Week 7, Pickens erupted for 17.3 points, seeing a season-high three end-zone targets and connecting with Wilson on a 44-yard deep ball. With no clear-cut WR1 in Pittsburgh, Pickens has the physical tools and opportunity to emerge as a consistent WR2 with the potential for explosive weeks as he develops chemistry with his new signal-caller.
Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
After a relatively slow start to the season, Kyle Pitts has come alive over his past three games, averaging 13.1 points per contest. The second-year tight end has seen his role in the Falcons’ offense expand, commanding 22 targets and catching 17 passes during this stretch. While touchdown production remains a concern, Pitts’ elite talent and growing involvement in an ascending Atlanta attack make him a TE1 with the potential to swing matchups in the second half of the season.
Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers
Trading for Christian McCaffrey is a move geared toward the fantasy playoffs, as the All-Pro running back has yet to suit up for the 49ers this season due to injury. However, if you can weather the uncertainty and potentially limited snap count upon his return, a healthy McCaffrey could be the ultimate difference-maker when it matters most. The versatile back averaged a league-high 24.5 points per game last season, and the 49ers’ creative offensive scheme is tailor-made to maximize his skill set.
Buy-Low Bargains: Undervalued Assets
Chase Brown, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Despite a subpar Week 7 performance against the Browns, Chase Brown has firmly established himself as the Bengals’ lead back. The rookie has out-touched backfield mate Zack Moss 17 to 9 and logged at least 12 touches in four consecutive games. Brown’s explosive burst and downhill running style make him an intriguing RB2 in an offense loaded with playmakers. An uptick in passing game usage would further solidify his value, but the volume alone makes him worth pursuing.
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals
A three-game slump and a tough upcoming schedule might have Marvin Harrison Jr. managers looking to cut bait, but now is the time to pounce. The rookie wideout showcased his immense talent with 20.6 points per game from Weeks 2-4, demonstrating precise route-running, coverage recognition, and elite ball skills. If Harrison can get back on the same page with quarterback Kyler Murray, he has the tools to be a WR1 down the stretch, making him an excellent buy-low candidate.
Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins
The impending return of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa bodes well for Jaylen Waddle’s rest-of-season outlook. In his lone full game with Tagovailoa under center, Waddle erupted for 16.2 points, catching all five of his targets for 109 yards. The second-year speedster’s ability to create after the catch meshes perfectly with Tagovailoa’s accuracy and timing, making him a WR2 with WR1 upside in the Dolphins’ high-flying offense.
Puka Nacua, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Puka Nacua has yet to make his season debut due to a knee injury, but the second-year wideout’s potential in the Rams’ pass-happy offense is tantalizing. As a rookie, Nacua averaged 17.4 points per game, eclipsing the 30-point mark thrice and finishing as the WR4 overall. With trade rumors swirling around Cooper Kupp, Nacua could be in line for a massive target share upon his return, making him a worthy stash for the stretch run.
Tucker Kraft, TE, Green Bay Packers
Tight end has been a volatile position in fantasy this season, which makes the emerging Tucker Kraft an appealing trade target. Over his past four games, the Packers’ rookie has averaged 14.5 points, finding the end zone in three of those contests. Kraft’s route participation has increased to 31.3 per game during this stretch, and his ability to create mismatches in the passing game has earned the trust of quarterback Jordan Love. As Kraft continues to develop, he has the potential to be a weekly TE1.
When pursuing trades in fantasy football, it’s essential to look beyond the big names and identify players whose values are on the rise. By targeting these 11 underrated options, you could bolster your starting lineup and gain a crucial edge over your opponents. Remember, championship rosters are often built not only through the draft but also through savvy in-season management and timely trades. As you navigate the trade market, keep these players in mind, and don’t be afraid to take a calculated risk on a high-upside talent who could propel your team to fantasy glory.
