Unlock Fantasy Football Success with These Key Additions
Running Backs
Tank Bigsby, the Jacksonville Jaguars' running back (46%), has reestablished himself as the preferred early-down rushing option. In Sunday's win, he gained 62 tough yards on 19 touches and scored a touchdown. With an average of 5.4 YPC and a top ranking in yards after contact per attempt (4.10), he offers unique value. However, his value depends on game script, which is never guaranteed with the Mac Jones-led Jaguars. But their remaining matchups against NYJ, at LV, and Ten aren't too intimidating, suggesting he has a few more high-usage games ahead.
Sincere McCormick, from the Las Vegas Raiders (15%), had solid performances in back-to-back weeks. On Sunday at Tampa, he carried 15 times for 78 yards and added two receptions. Head coach Antonio Pierce's promise to see more of him was fulfilled, as he delivered 187 total yards on 36 touches over the last three games. With a compelling college resume and a clear ticket for a substantial workload even when Alexander Mattison and White return from injury, he's a player to watch.
Isaiah Davis, the New York Jets' running back (11%), scored another touchdown on Sunday. Against Miami, he had 13 touches and made a 17-yard run through heavy traffic. He and Braelon Allen split the backfield snaps evenly (36 to 37), and with Breece Hall out, the Jets will rely on a two-rookie committee. The matchup against Jacksonville this week isn't a concern.
Patrick Taylor Jr., from the San Francisco 49ers (3%), scored a late touchdown against Chicago. He had seven carries for 25 yards. Guerendo's foot issue was downplayed in postgame comments, making Taylor a worthy waiver claim. New addition Israel Ibanikanda could be interesting down the road, but Taylor is the immediate priority.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends
Quentin Johnston, the Los Angeles Chargers' wide receiver (40%), made his long-awaited return to the end zone on Sunday night at Kansas City. He had five catches for 48 yards on seven chances and made some tough plays. With Ladd McConkey out, his services were needed, and he showed promise. He's on the radar ahead of the critical home matchup with Tampa Bay, where the Bucs defense has allowed a lot of passing yards.
Jalen McMillan, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' wide receiver (5%), had a breakout week against the Raiders. He caught four passes for 59 yards and two scores on seven targets. His touchdowns bookended the Bucs' scoring and he led the team in targets and routes run. He's suddenly a key weapon in a frisky offense.
Hunter Henry, the New England Patriots' tight end (41%), has been touchdown-challenged this season but has seen high target volumes recently. In the last seven games, he's had eight or more targets and is tied for third in red-zone opportunities. He delivered 7 catches for 75 yards against Indy and is capable of similar production each week.
Quarterbacks
Jameis Winston, the Cleveland Browns' quarterback (34% rostered), has extreme pass volume and an aggressive nature, making him a viable fantasy starter. Despite a tough spot against Pittsburgh on Sunday, he managed 212 passing yards, two scores, and two picks. His upcoming matchup with Kansas City is difficult, but his fantasy potential shines in Week 16 against Cincinnati, where the Bengals defense has shown vulnerabilities.
Drake Maye returns from the bye to face an inconsistent Arizona defense that allowed 30 points to Seattle. He always provides wild, scrambly highlights hinting at his fantasy ceiling. We hope he gets a serious No. 1 receiver in the offseason.
Aaron Rodgers will likely start for the Jets in their trip to Jacksonville and is expected to deliver his usual stats with countless in-game close-ups.
Defense
The Washington Commanders (23%) are a respectable defense coming off the bye and heading into a matchup with the Saints. Without a good QB behind the injured Derek Carr, the Commanders are a clear waiver priority. They are a significant road favorite against an overmatched quarterback and should be started wherever possible.
Recapping Week 15's priority pickups, it's clear that these players have the potential to make a big impact in the fantasy football playoffs. Keep an eye on these additions and make the most of your fantasy rosters.