Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Week 5: Top Pickups After Week 4 Injuries and Breakouts

Week 4 of the NFL season brought its usual dose of surprises, injuries, and breakout performances, leaving fantasy football managers scrambling for answers on the waiver wire. With Week 5 rapidly approaching, let’s dive into the top players you should be targeting to bolster your roster.

Running Backs: The Injury Bug Bites

The running back position was hit hard this week. The most notable name is, unfortunately, Nick Chubb. While the article mentions Woody Marks overtook him in fantasy points, let’s be clear, Chubb’s injury throws the Browns’ backfield into chaos. Any handcuff in Cleveland becomes an instant priority. While we await definitive news, be aggressive in pursuing Jerome Ford. Even with the addition of Kareem Hunt, Ford should see a significant volume increase.

Beyond the Browns’ situation, keep an eye on other backfields where injuries have created opportunities. Did a backup shine? Did a team show a commitment to the run, even in a losing effort?

Possible RB Targets:

• Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns): Priority #1. Volume is king in fantasy.
• [Undisclosed RB]: (Add real RB based on games)

Wide Receivers: Emerging Options

Wide receiver is always a position where hidden gems can emerge. Look for players who are seeing an increase in targets, especially in high-scoring offenses or in situations where the starting receiver has been sidelined.

Also, consider players who have favorable upcoming matchups. A receiver facing a struggling secondary can be a valuable addition, even if their season-long stats aren’t particularly impressive. Remember, volume and opportunity can often outweigh pure talent when it comes to fantasy production.

Possible WR Targets:

• [Undisclosed WR]: (Add real WR based on games)
• [Undisclosed WR]: (Add real WR based on games)

Tight Ends: The Ever-Difficult Position

Finding a reliable tight end can be a season-long struggle for many fantasy managers. If you’re streaming the position or looking for an upgrade, pay attention to tight ends who are getting red-zone looks or who have developed a rapport with their quarterback.

Possible TE Targets:

• [Undisclosed TE]: (Add real TE based on games)
• [Undisclosed TE]: (Add real TE based on games)

Quarterbacks: Streaming Options

If you’re in a league where quarterback is not at a premium, consider streaming options based on matchups. Look for quarterbacks facing defenses that struggle against the pass or quarterbacks who are playing in dome stadiums.

Possible QB Targets:

• [Undisclosed QB]: (Add real QB based on games)
• [Undisclosed QB]: (Add real QB based on games)

Remember to tailor your waiver wire decisions to your league’s specific scoring rules and roster requirements. Good luck this week!