The first week of the fantasy football season is always a mix of elation and disappointment, but it also provides a treasure trove of information.
New breakout stars emerge, and forgotten players find a new role. The key to winning your league often lies in identifying these hidden gems on the waiver wire before your opponents do.
After analyzing all the Week 1 action, here are some top players you need to prioritize adding to your roster at every position heading into Week 2.
Waiver Wire Quarterback Targets
Daniel Jones (Indianapolis Colts): Jones had a great debut with the Colts, throwing for 272 yards and a touchdown while adding two rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat ability gives him a solid fantasy floor and makes him a top priority at the position.
Aaron Rodgers (Pittsburgh Steelers): Rodgers looked sharp in his return, throwing for four touchdowns in a Week 1 win. He could be a viable streamer or a solid backup, especially if he continues to show this kind of production with his new team.
Michael Penix Jr. (Atlanta Falcons): The second-year pro had a strong showing, compiling nearly 300 passing yards and a touchdown, plus a rushing score. With a strong supporting cast, Penix has breakout potential and is worth adding to your roster.
Geno Smith (Las Vegas Raiders): Smith is another QB who impressed in Week 1 and could be a good streaming option for Week 2. He’s widely available and could offer solid production.
Waiver Wire Running Back Targets
Dylan Sampson (Cleveland Browns): Sampson was heavily involved in the Browns’ offense in Week 1, leading the backfield in touches and proving to be a valuable pass-catcher.
Trey Benson (Arizona Cardinals): The second-year running back got more work than expected in Week 1. As a talented player who could be getting his chance to shine in the Cardinals’ offense, he’s a great pickup if available.
Zach Charbonnet (Seattle Seahawks): Charbonnet played more snaps and had more carries than Ken Walker in Week 1, getting the goal-line work and scoring a touchdown. He appears to be taking on a bigger role in the offense and is worth an add.
Kenneth Gainwell (Pittsburgh Steelers): Gainwell led the Steelers’ running backs in snaps in Week 1. While his production wasn’t huge, his usage suggests he could be in line for more work, making him a speculative add.
Waiver Wire Wide Receiver Targets
Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers): Johnston showed immense potential in Week 1, hauling in two touchdowns and 79 yards. If he can continue to build chemistry with his quarterback, he could be a consistent fantasy producer.
Marquise Brown (Kansas City Chiefs): Following an injury to Xavier Worthy, Brown became the primary target for the Chiefs in Week 1, seeing a high volume of targets (16). With Worthy’s status uncertain and Rashee Rice suspended, Brown is a must-add in all leagues.
Wan’Dale Robinson (New York Giants): Robinson had six catches for 55 yards and was targeted 8 times in Week 1’s loss. He would make a good addition to someone’s bench or FLEX spot in PPR leagues.
Joshua Palmer (Buffalo Bills): Palmer had a solid performance in Week 1, catching 5 of 9 targets for 61 yards, and could be a good depth option at wide receiver. He’s a reliable target in an explosive offense.
Waiver Wire Tight End Targets
Harold Fannin Jr. (Cleveland Browns): The rookie tight end was a pleasant surprise in Week 1, seeing a high volume of targets (9) and being used creatively all over the field. He looks to be a significant part of the Browns’ passing game.
Juwan Johnson (New Orleans Saints): Johnson was a frequent target in Week 1, and volume is a huge factor at the tight end position. Even with a new quarterback, he could be a reliable option.
Brenton Strange (Jacksonville Jaguars): Strange, another rookie, could be a good stash with potential for increased usage in the Jaguars’ offense. He had four catches for 59 yards in Week 1.
