As fantasy football players look toward Week 10, some tough choices await with free-agent signings. With injuries and surprising player performances already starting to reshape the landscape, many more could be just a few plays away from becoming game-changers. Other options like Alec Pierce, Christian Watson and Colston Loveland are very intriguing candidates. Each of them possess special qualities that make them invaluable to their respective teams.
Here’s a look at some of the most important players fantasy managers need to know about. These perspectives will inform them to better improve their rosters as they head into the daunting second half of the season.
Noteworthy Players to Consider
One prospect who’s really catching people’s eyes these days is Alec Pierce. In a recent game, he made history by becoming the most targeted player on his team. He’s only rostered in 11.8% of leagues right now, which shows there is a lot of upside to be had among fantasy managers. The former Pittsburgh star had a huge season this past year, averaging 22.3 yards per catch. This year, he’s continued that trend with an impressive 20.9 yards-per-reception average. He can take the top off the defense in one play. That versatility makes him a fantastic choice for teams looking to add to their WR depth.
Good Christian Watson is another good option here, especially with him coming back from a torn ACL. He’s been targeted just four times in each of his two games back. All of this points to the fact that the team is slowly easing him back into the offensive gameplan. With a current roster percentage of just 25.6%, adding Watson would give fantasy managers lacking consistency a more reliable-to-start option on a week-to-week basis. With his potential for more targets and touchdowns, which could of course raise his value as the season goes on.
Colston Loveland, too, has recently put himself on everyone’s radar after scoring a position-high 29.8 points in a game earlier this season. Loveland is still only rostered in 23.6% of leagues. His outstanding game throughout the week highlights his potential, again making him a great addition for any team looking to upgrade their tight end spot. Once more fantasy managers realize his success, he’ll be one of the most popular waiver claims and increase his roster percentage even higher.
The Impact of Key Injuries
Injuries will always have a massive impact on player performance and availability in the world of fantasy football. C.J. Stroud’s recent concussion in Week 9 leaves fantasy managers wondering if he’ll be ready to suit up by Week 10. His absence could impact the entire offense, including receivers such as Calvin Ridley, who is currently rostered in 60.7% of leagues. Stroud has been an instrumental leader for the squad this season. Now, fantasy managers have to recalibrate the expected output from all the offensive players sans a healthy Watson.
To compound the issue, Olamide Zaccheaus was the leading wide receiver on his NFL team’s offense with eight targets against the Cincinnati Bengals. His production deserves more than 1.2% rostered. This discrepancy indicates a significant value to be found in adding him to your fantasy rosters. If Stroud remains out, Zaccheaus can/I’d #MakeTheCall as a top target for a new signaler.
Josh Downs made some waves with his touchdown reception over the weekend, and he’s only rostered in 58.6% of leagues still. His growing rapport with the signal-caller makes him more appealing to fantasy squads. They’re reaping the benefits as players get more comfortable plugging into their new offenses.
Strategies for Roster Improvement
With Week 10 approaching rapidly, fantasy managers need to hone in on players who provide instant value right away. It’s equally crucial to identify ones with staying power. With a rostership percentage between Alec Pierce, the door opens for a cash cow opportunity. Plus, they can continue to take advantage of his emerging role as one of the offense’s top targets. Many competitors may overlook him due to current roster trends, making him an ideal candidate for savvy pickups.
Christian Watson is still working his way back from an injury. That means he might be getting more and better targets very soon, making him a fantastic speculative add for any team dealing with wide receiver depth woes. As always, managers will want to keep a close eye on how quickly he can recapture form, and whether he can be trusted consistently into their lineups again.
Colston Loveland’s huge night should serve as a reminder to keep an eye on tight ends, especially ones who can offer sneaky returns. We know tight end production can be an unreliable commodity league-wide. Loveland’s success this year is an indication that Loveland could be an asset down the line.
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