With Week 4 of the NFL season in the books, it’s time to take a look at some of the best waiver wire pickups for your fantasy football team. These players have all shown signs of promise early on and could be valuable additions to your lineup. Whether you’re looking for a new starting running back, wide receiver, or quarterback, there are plenty of options to choose from.
One player who has been impressing lately is running back Jeff Wilson Jr. of the San Francisco 49ers. Wilson has taken over as the lead back in San Francisco following injuries to Elijah Mitchell and Trey Sermon. He has rushed for over 100 yards in each of the past two games and has also scored two touchdowns. Wilson is a physical runner who can also catch passes out of the backfield, making him a versatile option for fantasy owners.
Another player who has emerged as a potential waiver wire pickup is wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling of the Kansas City Chiefs. Valdes-Scantling has been targeted 10 times in each of the past two games and has caught a touchdown in each of those contests. He has shown good chemistry with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and could be a valuable deep threat for the Chiefs going forward. Valdes-Scantling is worth adding to your watch list if he is available on your waiver wire.
Rising Stars: Top Waiver Wire Gems
1. Rachaad White, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
White has emerged as a potential breakout star in the Buccaneers’ backfield, showcasing his versatility as a runner and receiver. In Week 3 against the Rams, he rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown while also catching 5 passes for 43 yards. White’s impressive performance, coupled with the absence of Leonard Fournette due to injury, has thrust him into the limelight as a must-add waiver wire pickup. With Fournette’s return timeline uncertain, White could be poised to continue his ascent and become a valuable contributor in fantasy football.
Week 4 Outlook: White is expected to see a significant workload in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, making him a strong candidate for a solid fantasy outing.
2. Allen Lazard, WR, Green Bay Packers
Lazard has quietly established himself as a reliable target in the Packers’ offense, averaging over 5 targets per game through the first three weeks of the season. In Week 3 against the Buccaneers, he hauled in 6 receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown. Lazard’s consistent production, combined with the uncertainty surrounding the Packers’ passing game, makes him a valuable waiver wire addition for teams in need of a reliable wide receiver.
3. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Valdes-Scantling has shown flashes of his playmaking ability in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense, averaging over 10 yards per reception through the first three weeks of the season. In Week 3 against the Colts, he caught 4 passes for 103 yards, demonstrating his big-play potential. The Chiefs’ passing attack is expected to continue to produce, and Valdes-Scantling could emerge as a valuable deep threat for fantasy owners.
Impactful Defenders for Week 4
Demario Davis, LB, New Orleans Saints (45% rostered)
Davis has been a consistent performer for the Saints, averaging 7.3 tackles per game. He also has two interceptions and a forced fumble on the season. In Week 4, the Saints face the Minnesota Vikings, who have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing linebackers. Davis is a solid option for those looking for a matchup-proof linebacker.
Tre’Davious White, CB, Buffalo Bills (25% rostered)
White is one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, and he has been solid this season with 26 tackles, one interception, and five pass breakups. In Week 4, the Bills face the Baltimore Ravens, who have struggled to protect Lamar Jackson this season. White is likely to shadow Ravens’ top receiver Rashod Bateman, making him a prime candidate for a big performance.
Casey Hayward, CB, Las Vegas Raiders (10% rostered)
Hayward is a veteran cornerback who has had a resurgence this season for the Raiders. He has 22 tackles, three interceptions, and four pass breakups on the year. In Week 4, the Raiders face the Denver Broncos, who have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing cornerbacks. Hayward is a great deep-league option for those looking for a ball-hawking defender.
| Player | Pos | Team | FPts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demario Davis | LB | Saints | 29.3 |
| Tre’Davious White | CB | Bills | 20.5 |
| Casey Hayward | CB | Raiders | 18.9 |
Quarterbacks
If you’re in need of a quarterback upgrade, there are a few intriguing options available on the waiver wire. Jameis Winston (NO) has been solid in his first three starts, averaging 261.3 passing yards and 1.3 touchdowns per game. He has a favorable matchup in Week 4 against the Vikings, who have allowed the second-most passing yards in the NFL this season. Another option to consider is Gardner Minshew (PHI). Minshew has looked sharp in limited action, completing 65.2% of his passes for 355 yards and two touchdowns. With Jalen Hurts dealing with an ankle injury, Minshew could be in line for a starting role in Week 4.
Running Backs
There aren’t many standout running backs available on the waiver wire, but there are a few names worth considering. Jeff Wilson Jr. (SF) has been a workhorse for the 49ers, averaging 15.7 carries per game. He has yet to find the end zone this season, but he has the potential to be a solid flex option. Another option to consider is Khalil Herbert (CHI). Herbert has impressed in limited action, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. With David Montgomery dealing with an ankle injury, Herbert could be in line for a bigger role in Week 4.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver waiver wire is a bit thin this week, but there are a few players worth targeting. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (KC) has emerged as a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes, averaging 6.3 receptions and 78.3 receiving yards per game over the past two weeks. He has a favorable matchup in Week 4 against the Buccaneers, who have allowed the fifth-most passing yards in the NFL this season. Another option to consider is Christian Watson (GB). Watson has shown flashes of his big-play ability, averaging 17.3 yards per reception this season. He could be worth a speculative add in deeper leagues.
| Player | Pos | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Jameis Winston | QB | NO |
| Gardner Minshew | QB | PHI |
| Jeff Wilson Jr. | RB | SF |
| Khalil Herbert | RB | CHI |
| Marquez Valdes-Scantling | WR | KC |
| Christian Watson | WR | GB |
Fantasy Sleeper: Hidden Treasures on the Waiver Wire
Quarterbacks
Jameis Winston, Saints: Winston has rebounded from a disappointing 2021 season, throwing for 1,014 yards and eight touchdowns through three games. He faces a soft matchup against the Vikings in Week 4, making him a solid streaming option.
Running Backs
Brian Robinson, Commanders: Robinson impressed in Week 3 with 15 carries for 60 yards and a touchdown. He should continue to see a significant role in the Commanders’ offense, especially with Antonio Gibson still injured.
Wide Receivers
Jakobi Meyers, Patriots: Meyers has quietly become one of the most reliable wide receivers in fantasy football, averaging over 60 receiving yards per game. He’s a great option for teams in need of a consistent target.
Tight Ends
Evan Engram, Giants: Engram has been a breakout performer for the Giants this season, catching 16 passes for 150 yards and three touchdowns. He’s a versatile receiving threat who should continue to produce for fantasy owners.
Additional Tight End Sleepers to Consider
| Player | Team | Week 4 Matchup |
|---|---|---|
| Tyler Conklin | Jets | Steelers |
| Isaiah McKenzie | Bills | Ravens |
| Hunter Henry | Patriots | Packers |
Breakout Performers to Enhance Your Team
Players who have emerged from obscurity and delivered impressive performances
In a fantasy season, breakouts can dramatically alter your team’s fortunes. Here are some players who have unexpectedly risen to prominence in Week 4, boosting their fantasy value and potentially making them valuable pickups on the waiver wire.
Quarterbacks
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars: 2 TDs, 133 passing yards, 1 INT
Matt Ryan, Indianapolis Colts: 3 TDs, 222 passing yards, 0 INT
Running Backs
Rhamondre Stevenson, New England Patriots: 1 TD, 76 rushing yards, 3 receptions, 32 receiving yards
Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans: 1 TD, 80 rushing yards, 2 receptions, 22 receiving yards
Wide Receivers
Garrett Wilson, New York Jets: 5 receptions, 102 receiving yards, 2 TDs
Wan’Dale Robinson, New York Giants: 5 receptions, 57 receiving yards, 1 TD
Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz, Dallas Cowboys: 5 receptions, 74 receiving yards, 1 TD
Irv Smith Jr., Minnesota Vikings: 3 receptions, 40 receiving yards, 1 TD
Defense/Special Teams
Jacksonville Jaguars: 1 sack, 1 INT, 1 fumble recovery;
| Sacks | 1 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Fumble Recovery | 1 |
Minnesota Vikings: 2 sacks, 2 INTs;
| Sacks | 2 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
Early Leaders: Players on the Rise
These players have emerged as early standouts in the 2023 season and are worth considering adding to your fantasy rosters.
Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Jefferson has continued to dominate as the Vikings’ top receiver, leading the NFL in receiving yards and touchdowns through three weeks.
Tyreek Hill, WR, Miami Dolphins
Hill has been a force for the Dolphins, ranking second in the league in receiving yards and averaging over 100 yards per game.
Nick Chubb, RB, Cleveland Browns
Chubb has been a workhorse for the Browns, leading the NFL in rushing yards and touchdowns.
Patrick Mahomes, QB, Kansas City Chiefs
Mahomes has picked up where he left off last season, leading the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns.
Cooper Kupp, WR, Los Angeles Rams
Kupp has been the Rams’ most consistent receiver, ranking among the top-10 in the league in receiving yards and touchdowns.
Travis Etienne, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Etienne has emerged as a breakout star for the Jaguars, averaging over 100 scrimmage yards per game.
| Player | Position | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Justin Jefferson | WR | Minnesota Vikings |
| Tyreek Hill | WR | Miami Dolphins |
| Nick Chubb | RB | Cleveland Browns |
| Patrick Mahomes | QB | Kansas City Chiefs |
| Cooper Kupp | WR | Los Angeles Rams |
| Travis Etienne | RB | Jacksonville Jaguars |
Waiver Wire Value: Hidden Gems with Upside
Quarterbacks
Daniel Jones, NYG: Jones has averaged over 300 passing yards per game in his last two outings, establishing himself as a solid waiver wire target.
Running Backs
Khalil Herbert, CHI: Herbert impressed in Week 3 with 157 rushing yards and two touchdowns. With David Montgomery’s injury status uncertain, Herbert could have a significant role moving forward.
Wide Receivers
Parris Campbell, IND: Campbell exploded for 174 receiving yards and a touchdown in Week 3. He’s a speedy playmaker who could continue to make noise in the Colts’ offense.
Tight Ends
Austin Hooper, TEN: Hooper caught 5 passes for 65 yards in Week 3, establishing himself as a reliable target for Ryan Tannehill. He’s worth considering as a TE2 option.
Defenses/Special Teams
Cleveland Browns: The Browns recorded 3 sacks and forced 2 turnovers in Week 3. They have shown potential as a streaming option against the Falcons in Week 4.
Kickers
Evan McPherson, CIN: McPherson has been consistent with his kicking, averaging over 10 points per game. He’s a reliable option for fantasy owners.
Hidden Gem with Explosive Upside
| Player | Position | Team |
| Justin Watson, KC | WR | Chiefs |
Watson played a key role in Week 3, catching 6 passes for 90 yards and a touchdown. With Mecole Hardman nursing an injury, Watson could see more targets moving forward. He has the potential to be a breakout performer in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense.
Positional Dominators: Waiver Wire Targets by Position
Running Backs:
With injuries piling up in the NFL, running backs are a hot commodity on the waiver wire. If you’re looking for a potential breakout, consider adding Jeff Wilson (SF), Rashaad Penny (SEA), or Zamir White (LV) to your roster.
Wide Receivers:
Several wide receivers are emerging as potential WR3s or flex options. Marquez Valdes-Scantling (KC), Van Jefferson (LAR), and Christian Watson (GB) are all worth a look, especially in deeper leagues.
Tight Ends:
Tight ends are a bit more scarce on the waiver wire, but rookies Jelani Woods (IND) and Trey McBride (ARI) could be worth adding for their upside. If you need a more experienced option, consider Evan Engram (JAC), who has shown flashes of his former production.
Quarterbacks:
Due to injuries or underperformance, several starting quarterbacks have lost their jobs. Jimmy Garoppolo (SF), Brett Rypien (DEN), and P.J. Walker (CAR) could be worth considering as a streaming option or long-term investment.
Defenses:
Finding a strong defense on the waiver wire can be difficult, but the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, and Philadelphia Eagles have all been impressive early in the season.
Kickers:
Kickers are typically less impactful than other positions, but Matt Prater (ARI) has been consistent and is worth a roster spot in leagues with low roster limits.
Team Defenses:
The waiver wire is a great place to find breakout defenses. Look for teams like the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, and Minnesota Vikings, who have shown great potential early in the season.
| Week 4 Waiver Wire Targets | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Position | Player | Team | Yahoo Ownership % |
| RB | Jeff Wilson | SF | 41% |
| WR | Marquez Valdes-Scantling | KC | 35% |
| TE | Jelani Woods | IND | 28% |
| QB | Jimmy Garoppolo | SF | 19% |
| DEF | Buffalo Bills | — | 59% |
| K | Matt Prater | ARI | 17% |
Late-Season Surprises: Emerging Players for Week 4
Wide Receivers
Jahan Dotson, Washington Commanders: The rookie phenom has quietly emerged as a dependable target for Carson Wentz. With 17 targets, 12 receptions, and 110 receiving yards, Dotson is a solid pickup for teams needing a wide receiver.
Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints: The undrafted rookie has made the most of his opportunities with five catches for 71 yards and a touchdown in two games. He’s a deep threat who could provide big plays.
Running Backs
Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks: After a slow start, Walker has shown flashes of his potential with 189 rushing yards and a touchdown in his last two games. He’s a bruising runner with a bright future.
Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: White has shared time with Leonard Fournette but has impressed with his quickness and versatility. He’s an excellent pass-catching back with upside.
Tight Ends
Greg Dulcich, Denver Broncos: The rookie tight end is coming off a breakout game with six receptions, 87 receiving yards, and a touchdown. He could be a long-term fantasy asset for Russell Wilson.
Jelani Woods, Indianapolis Colts: Woods has become the go-to tight end for Matt Ryan with 24 targets through three games. He’s a big target with a knack for finding the end zone.
Quarterbacks
Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks: Smith has been a pleasant surprise this season, leading the Seahawks to a 2-1 record with his efficient play. He’s a safe option for teams looking for a quarterback.
Justin Fields, Chicago Bears: Fields has shown glimpses of his dual-threat ability with 226 rushing yards through three games. He’s a high-reward quarterback with a lot of potential.
Defense/Special Teams
| Team | Week 4 Matchup |
|---|---|
| Jacksonville Jaguars | Philadelphia Eagles |
| Arizona Cardinals | Carolina Panthers |
| Tampa Bay Buccaneers | Kansas City Chiefs |
Sleeper Alerts: Unveiling Underrated Waiver Wire Adds
10. Chase Claypool, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
After a slow start to the season, Chase Claypool has emerged as a legitimate target for the Steelers. The 23-year-old wideout has put up respectable numbers in each of the past three weeks, including a 106-yard performance in Week 3. With Diontae Johnson still dealing with a shoulder injury, Claypool could see an even larger role in the Steelers’ offense moving forward.
Key Stats:
| Weeks 1-3: 14 receptions, 204 yards, 1 TD |
Waiver Wire Priority:
High
Best Waiver Wire Pickups Week 4
Week 4 of the NFL season is here, and there are plenty of players available on the waiver wire who can help your fantasy team. Here are some of the best waiver wire pickups for Week 4:
- QB: Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars (37% owned)
- RB: Jerick McKinnon, Kansas City Chiefs (31% owned)
- WR: Zay Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars (19% owned)
- TE: Evan Engram, New York Giants (16% owned)
- DST: New York Jets (10% owned)
People Also Ask About Best Waiver Wire Pickups Week 4
Who is the best quarterback to pick up on the waiver wire in Week 4?
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars (37% owned)
Lawrence has been playing well this season, and he has a great matchup in Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles have allowed the most passing yards in the NFL this season, so Lawrence could be in for a big day.
Who is the best running back to pick up on the waiver wire in Week 4?
Jerick McKinnon, Kansas City Chiefs (31% owned)
McKinnon has been very involved in the Chiefs’ offense this season, and he has scored a touchdown in each of the past two games. He is a good option as a flex play or as a replacement for an injured running back.
Who is the best wide receiver to pick up on the waiver wire in Week 4?
Zay Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars (19% owned)
Jones has emerged as a favorite target of Trevor Lawrence, and he has scored a touchdown in each of the past two games. He is a good option as a WR3 or as a replacement for an injured wide receiver.
