Football
"6 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Picks for Deep Leagues in Week 16"
2024-12-16
Doing weekly waivers in fantasy football often brings more stress than performing life-saving surgery without tools. Deciding which players to add from the waiver wire each week can be a real headache, especially in deeper leagues. But don't worry, we're here to help with some great waiver wire targets.
Uncover Hidden Fantasy Football Gems on the Waiver Wire
Drake Maye (QB – NE)
Since taking over as the starting quarterback, Drake Maye has been performing exceptionally well. He averages an impressive 16.4 fantasy points per game and has scored 17.5+ fantasy points in 55.6% of his starts. In the past four games, he hit that total in three consecutive contests and even completed at least 80% of his passes in back-to-back games. Moreover, Maye has been a key contributor in the run game, averaging 38.6 rushing yards per game and 5.2 fantasy points per contest with his legs. In Week 15, he had 14 rushing yards and a touchdown in the loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Looking ahead, he faces the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Chargers over the next two weeks, which are solid fantasy matchups for this rookie quarterback.The former UNC star has shown great potential and consistency, making him a valuable addition to fantasy teams in deeper leagues. His ability to perform well both through the air and on the ground gives him an edge over many other quarterbacks.Blake Corum (RB – LAR)
Blake Corum's value this season has been somewhat limited, ranking as the RB71 with an average of 1.9 half-PPR fantasy points per game. However, in the past three games, he has had eight rushing attempts and averaged 4.8 yards per attempt. Fantasy players should always be prepared for injuries, and Kyren Williams has had a significant workload this year with 310 touches in 15 games, averaging 20.7 per contest. If Williams were to miss time towards the end of the year, Corum could become a league winner. The Rams face the New York Jets in Week 16 and the Arizona Cardinals in Week 17, two run defenses that could be susceptible to Corum's skills.Although Corum's overall season stats may not be outstanding, his recent performance and potential opportunity make him a worthwhile addition in deeper leagues. He has the potential to make a big impact if given the chance.Kendre Miller (RB – NO)
Alvin Kamara's groin injury in Week 15 has raised concerns for fantasy players. While the Saints haven't been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, their chances are slim. As a result, the team might consider shutting down Kamara for the rest of the year. Kendre Miller, the second-year pro, has struggled with injuries but has played well in limited action, averaging 4.6 yards and 0.67 half-PPR fantasy points per rushing attempt.If Kamara is sidelined, Miller could step up and provide valuable fantasy production. His ability to handle the rushing duties and potentially become the lead back gives him added value in deeper leagues.Jalen McMillan (WR – TB)
In Week 15, Jalen McMillan had a standout performance. He had five receptions on six targets for 75 receiving yards, a touchdown and 16 fantasy points. More importantly, he has had six or more targets in four of his past six games, including back-to-back contests. Over the past two weeks, he recorded nine receptions on 13 targets for 134 receiving yards, three touchdowns and 35.9 fantasy points. He has replaced Cade Otton as Baker Mayfield's No. 2 option in the passing game and has two solid matchups to finish the fantasy football playoffs.McMillan's recent form and increased target share make him a reliable option in fantasy leagues. His ability to make big plays and contribute in key games gives him a lot of potential.Calvin Austin III (WR – PIT)
George Pickens' hamstring injury has forced Calvin Austin to step up as the No. 2 wide receiver. Over the past month, he has averaged 3.5 targets and 8.8 half-PPR fantasy points per game, with three out of the past four contests seeing him reach nine or more fantasy points and scoring two receiving touchdowns. In Week 15, he caught all five targets for 65 receiving yards against the Philadelphia Eagles. With three fantasy-friendly matchups remaining in the season, including against the Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals, Austin has WR3 value in standard-size leagues if Pickens misses his third consecutive game.Austin's ability to perform in the absence of Pickens and his favorable matchups make him a valuable addition for fantasy teams looking for wide receiver depth.Stone Smartt (TE – LAC)
In Week 15, Stone Smartt had a solid outing with five receptions on six targets for 50 receiving yards and 5.5 half-PPR fantasy points, despite losing a fumble. He has played well in back-to-back games, totaling eight receptions on nine targets for 104 receiving yards and 12.4 fantasy points. With the Chargers placing Hayden Hurst on injured reserve and Will Dissly missing Sunday's game due to a shoulder injury, Smartt is likely to continue to have fantasy value in deeper leagues.Smartt's consistent performance and the absence of other tight end options make him a viable option for fantasy teams in deeper leagues. He provides a reliable target for the Chargers' offense.Mike Fanelli is a featured writer at FantasyPros. For more from Mike, check out his archive and follow him @Mike_NFL2.