The fantasy football season is just around the corner! Managers are actively hunting for ‘hidden gems’, players who will provide their teams with an unfair advantage. From surprise rookie contributors to Mississippi State alums, this week produced some great names that should be scooped up on waivers. Brashard Smith is a rookie seventh-round draft pick for the Kansas City Chiefs. He’s a good stash, considering he’s only 2.7% rostered right now. His performances, along with notable contributions from other players, underscore the dynamic shifts in player value as teams adapt and evolve.
The Kansas City Chiefs put together an impressive display last week, shutting out the Las Vegas Raiders 31-0. It was in that victory America’s team displayed its strongest wing—their staunch defense. It further showcased the developing talents they’ve had on their roster like Smith. At the same time, a number of other new faces around the league have been opening eyes, forcing fantasy managers to adjust their lineups early on.
Emerging Talent: Brashard Smith and the Rookie Class
Brashard Smith, an un-drafted rookie wide-receiver with the Kansas City Chiefs is drawing serious breakout buzz. Analysts are jizzing in their pants over two weeks worth of performances. Like them, we’re big believers in him making an impact, despite his low roster percentage right now. As a former seventh-round draft pick, Smith got stiff competition ahead of him, but he has impressed during practice and games both.
Looking forward in this season, especially to next year, watch out for Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Brian Thomas Jr. Just as importantly, they have both wowed fantasy managers with their splashy performances. Together these players are a new wave of talent we’ll likely see dominating fantasy rosters moving forward this season and beyond. Inconsistent performance combined with injuries have impacted some of the veterans. This means that rookie prospects such as Smith can offer outsize profit for the teams who are willing to bet.
Smith’s shiftiness and precision as a route-runner helps him fit in a league that prioritizes young, agile talent. He has the potential to be an effective contributor for teams looking to add some juice to their passing game. As fantasy managers evaluate their options heading into the next week, keeping an eye on emerging players like Smith will be crucial for success.
Notable Performances and Potential Pickups
A few waiver-wire possibilities, including honorable mentions Over the past few weeks some players have vaulted into the conversation as instant-play pickups. Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts made headlines by tallying three touchdowns in a single game, reaffirming his status as a top-tier running back. Please remember, too, that his performance will lead fantasy managers to seek trades or other alternatives to take advantage of his newfound momentum.
Last week, the Philadelphia Eagles wide receivers showed their depth by walking away with 304 total receiving yards. They managed a three TD game while putting up a SICK 61.4 PPR points. For better or worse, this game effectively demonstrates the upside of their passing attack. It makes things interesting for fantasy managers to pick up future stars from their roster.
Plus others like Courtland Sutton seem to be taking on new roles as the dependable 1B in their new offences. Sutton has proven to be the lone, safe wide receiver option in a terrible Denver situation. Any managers looking for some stability in this up-and-down performance landscape would do well to follow Sutton’s matchups very closely going forward.
The Quarterback Situation: Who’s Starting Next?
With the injury bug and performance problems knocking on every doorstep for quarterbacks this season, it seems like a lot of franchises are thinking about new directions going ahead. J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings might be looking at his first start this week versus the Los Angeles Chargers. His current roster percentage sits at a healthy 28.2%. His promotion is especially timely as the Vikings desperately need to add some competency to their moribund offense.
In his last game with the Vikings, Wentz threw two interceptions. Not surprisingly, this performance has led some around the league to question whether he’s a long-term starter. Given the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future, fantasy managers should be keeping a close eye on this situation. Should McCarthy receive the call-up, he would be an interesting fun QB dart throw for teams looking for QB3/4 depth.
Meanwhile, Geno Smith’s position is under scrutiny as he may be benched in favor of Kenny Pickett during the Raiders’ bye week. This possible change would have huge ramifications on both quarterbacks’ fantasy upside and should be considered in any lineup-building decisions.
Running Back Landscape: Who to Watch
The running back position may be more competitive than ever, as three new players landed in our top five this week. Among these names are Jahmyr Gibbs, Ashton Jeanty, Kyren Williams, Kenneth Walker III, Zach Charbonnet, and Travis Etienne Jr. Yet all three of these running backs have flashed impressive talents when given the opportunities. They can provide specific strategic ones for fantasy rosters at the last keystroke.
Gibbs has especially wowed observers with his versatility and playmaking ability to make an impact both as a rusher and a receiver. And now, as far as role goes in the Detroit Lions’ offense, he should be set. That alone would make him an attractive option for teams looking to upgrade their backfield.
The Tennessee Titans, who have already established a plan to get Tyjae Spears more involved, line up to follow suit. As they evaluate their roster amid various injuries and performance concerns, Spears could emerge as a favorite among fantasy managers seeking to capitalize on his potential.
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