Tue Nov 18 10:03am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer

Rodriguez is emerging as starter
We talked about how bad the options were on the waiver wire last week but things change in a hurry here in fantasy land. Things are looking a little up this week, especially at the running back position. It just goes to show you how much things can change in just a week.
Here are some options to consider grabbing. . . . .
QUARTERBACK
Bryce Young, Panthers (31.5% owned). Young had the best game of his career last week, throwing for 448 yards and three touchdowns. He scored 36.4 fantasy points. It was quite the impressive performance. Young has been all over the map this year, but maybe this game gets him going. He might be worth a speculative pickup.
RUNNING BACK
Sean Tucker, Bucs (36.1% owned). Tucker had a career game last week, scoring three touchdowns. He also hit the 100-yard rushing mark. Tucker earned more work going forward. The only issue is starter Bucky Irving could be nearing a return. Once that happens, Tucker won’t have nearly as much value. Just keep that in mind.
Ty Johnson, Bills (6.9% owned). Johnson is a bit boom or bust but is starting to be a tad more consistent. He has double-digit fantasy points two of three games. He has multiple receptions all three of those games. He has some streaming value when injury or bye weeks come up for fantasy teams.
Emanuel Wilson, Packers (31.4% owned). Wilson will be the hot pickup this week with Josh Jacobs banged up. Wilson ran well in relief of Jacobs last week, rushing 11 times for 40 yards and a touchdown. He could be a difference maker for fantasy teams if he gets some starts the coming weeks.
Chris Rodriguez, Commanders (34.0% owned). Rodriguez is emerging as the lead back for the Commanders. He has double-digit carries two of three games. He also has found the end zone two of those games. The Commanders are a mess right now but as long as Rodriguez keeps getting double-digit touches, he’ll have value to fantasy teams.
WIDE RECEIVER
Tyrell Shavers, Bills (0.1% owned). Shavers had his best game of the season, getting more playing time with the team benching Keon Coleman. He responded with four receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown on five targets. Shavers is no sure thing going forward but likely earned at least some more targets the next few weeks. If he keeps making plays, he’ll keep playing.
Jayden Higgins, Texans (30.3% owned). Higgins continues to get consistent work in the Texans passing game. He has at least seven targets three of four games. He has double-digit fantasy points two of those games. Higgins is becoming a real factor in the Texans passing game.
Mack Hollins, Patriots (19.4% owned). Hollins is emerging as a top target for the Patriots passing game. He has double-digit fantasy points three of four games. He has 10 receptions his last two games. The Patriots boast one of the top passing offenses in football, so look for Hollins to continue to produce.
Michael Wilson, Cardinals (17.7% owned). Wilson had a career game last week, finishing with 15 receptions for 185 yards on 18 targets. He has been targeted 25 times his last two games. Wilson is finally starting to get more consistent looks. This was starting to happen even when Marvin Harrison was in the lineup.
TIGHT END
Darnell Washington, Steelers (1.1% owned). Washington plays the most out of the three Steelers tight ends. He is out there more to block but is starting to get more looks in the passing game. Washington has four receptions two of three games. He has been targeted at least five times four of six games. In tight end premium leagues, Washington is certainly with an addition to fantasy rosters.
AJ Barner, Seahawks (36.4% owned). Barner didn’t catch a pass Week 10 but had 10 receptions for 70 yards on 11 targets last week. It was his best game of the season. Barner does have double-digit fantasy points six of 10 games. Barner has been pretty dang consistent all year.
Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
New York Giants wide receiver Isaiah Hodgins has been a decent fantasy contributor in two starts with the team, though he'll get another difficult matchup this Monday night against the New England Patriots. Hodgins was signed off the Steelers' practice squad a few weeks back, reuniting him with the Giants' organization. For one game, at least, it appears Hodgins has worked his way behind only Wan'Dale Robinson in terms of snap share, logging two more than Darius Slayton (52) upon the latter's return from a one-game absence. While the Oregon State product may have moved ahead of Slayton in the pecking order, fantasy managers may want to wait one more week before relying on him as a low-floor dart throw, considering a less-than-ideal outing with a tough Pats' defense. Hodgins is RotoBaller's PPR WR69 for his clash with New England.
From RotoBaller
Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier garnered double-digit carries in Week 12, rushing 12 times for 44 yards, and even received one target, which he caught for five yards. Unfortunately for fantasy managers who deployed him as a Flex option, the 25-year-old was unable to find the end zone as he'd done in three of the four previous weeks and seven times this season. The BYU product could see a similar workload in Week 13 in what should be a competitive contest versus the Jets, with the Falcons as three-point road favorites. New York has yielded the ninth-most half-point PPR points to opposing running backs this season, but in what projects to be a low-scoring affair, Allgeier will continue to be a risky RB3/Flex that, if he doesn't score, comes with a very low floor.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants running back Devin Singletary is set for another stiff test in Week 13 when his team squares off with the hosting New England Patriots on Monday Night Football. The former Buffalo Bill has seen a heavier workload over the previous two games, as New York's pace of play shot up with quarterback Jameis Winston under center. That could remain true even with Jaxson Dart back in the fold, but the running game won't be afforded any favors against a staunch Patriots' defense. On the season, New England has allowed the second-fewest rush yards (87.7) and fantasy points per game to running backs (16.63). Singletary sports some low-end flex appeal either way if he can remain involved in the Giants' offense. However, fantasy managers should temper expectations against one of the league's stronger rush defenses. The 28-year-old is RotoBaller's PPR RB42 for this week's slate of action.
From RotoBaller
Las Vegas Raiders tight end Michael Mayer (ankle) has officially been ruled out for Sunday's Week 13 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. Mayer was unable to participate for the entire week due to an ankle injury he had sustained early in Week 12 against the Cleveland Browns. The 24-year-old was quickly ruled out last week after injuring his ankle in the first half of the game. Mayers has shown flashes during a lost season for the Raiders and had seen 15 targets in his previous three games before this ankle injury. In Week 13, the Raiders' offense will continue to rely on Brock Bowers, Tre Tucker, and recently acquired Tyler Lockett to lead the passing attack. It is worth noting that this will be the first game this season in which Greg Olson takes over play-calling duties for the Raiders. Ian Thomas should see an increase in snaps and will serve as the Raiders' backup tight end to Bowers with Mayer sidelined.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson has ridden the fantasy roller coaster so far this season. Since Week 4, Johnson has been an inconsistent fantasy option, finishing inside the Top-12 five times and finishing outside the Top-20 four times. The 24-year-old will see a decent matchup heading into Week 13 against the New England Patriots. The Patriots' defense has allowed the fifth-fewest rushing yards and the 10th most passing touchdowns this season. With a tough run defense, the Giants' offense could be forced to go to a pass-heavy game script early to sustain drives. This, along with Johnson's red zone presence against a struggling red zone passing defense, could work in his favor. It is worth noting that the Giants will be getting Jaxson Dart back after missing two games due to a concussion. The stars seem to be aligning for Johnson to be a viable TE2 with a good chance to score his first touchdown since Week 9.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. has taken control of the Giants' backfield. Tracy has had 39 carries for 150 rushing yards, along with seven catches for 119 yards on eight targets over his last two games. The 26-year-old has been maximizing his versatile skill set and is making a case to be a reliable running back for managers right before the fantasy playoffs. Heading into Week 13, Tracy will face a stout New England Patriots run defense. The Patriots have allowed the fifth-fewest rushing yards and the fewest rushing touchdowns this season. However, Tracy should be more efficient per touch with rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart (concussion) being cleared from concussion protocol. Dart's dual-threat ability will force run defenders to pay more attention to him, freeing up bigger running lanes for Tracy. In a difficult matchup, Tracy is an RB3 that can be inserted into flex spots for fantasy managers against New England in Week 13.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart will officially make his return to the field after missing each of the last two games due to a concussion. Interim head coach Mike Kafka confirmed on Thursday that Dart has cleared concussion protocol. Given his injuries, the Giants may elect to change the gameplan with Dart. That means, Dart might not run the ball as much as he was earlier in the season. Regardless, fantasy managers should still be able to trust Dart who has been impressive with his arm through his first seven starts. He draws a tough matchup against the New England Patriots, but Dart remains a QB1 in fantasy leagues.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III is looking to make an impact after posting a few duds recently. Austin has been held to 36 receiving yards or fewer in each of his last three games. The 26-year-old has also seen his snap count decrease heavily over the last two contests. There is certainly some decent upside with Austin, but he's not getting the playing time to be fantasy relevant right now. It's tough to trust him as anything more than a low-end flex option for the upcoming Week 13 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (hamstring) doesn't carry an injury designation into Monday's Week 13 matchup against the New England Patriots. Slayton was limited in practice this week due to a hamstring issue. However, it doesn't appear to be serious enough to hold him out of this Monday night contest. Slayton hasn't experienced a ton of success this season. Through nine games, Slayton has recorded 24 receptions for 366 yards and zero touchdowns. Due to the lack of options in this offense, Slayton still carries flex value for this upcoming contest.
From RotoBaller
New York Giants wide receiver Wan'Dale Robinson (ankle) won't carry an injury designation into the Week 13 matchup against the New England Patriots. Robinson was limited in practice on Friday due to an ankle issue. It doesn't appear to be a serious issue as Robinson has been cleared for this Monday night contest. Robinson has stepped up in the absence of Malik Nabers (knee) lately. The 24-year-old has six receptions or more in three of his last four games. Quarterback Jaxson Dart (concussion) is set to return after missing two games. Fantasy managers should be able to count on Robinson as a high-end WR2 for Week 13.
From RotoBaller
Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders will make the second start of his career this Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 13, and if he continues to play well, he could earn more starts for the rest of the season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Browns are open to giving Sanders an "extended look for the rest of the season," just as fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel got in the first half before suffering a concussion that opened the door for Sanders. Much of the Browns' decision will be determined by how Sanders plays, though. Although his numbers didn't jump off the page in his first start last weekend against the Raiders, Cleveland was impressed with his playmaking skills, aggressive downfield throws, and his ability to buy time and push the ball downfield. The Browns have also been impressed with Sanders' work ethic. The 23-year-old threw for 209 yards, one touchdown, and a pick in his first NFL start in Week 12. In Week 13 against a banged-up Niners defense, Sanders will be a QB3 in fantasy in what is expected to be inclement weather.
From RotoBaller
The Minnesota Vikings have elevated quarterback John Wolford to the active roster ahead of their Week 13 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. Wolford will be starting quarterback Max Brosmer's backup in Sunday's game, per Kevin Seifert of ESPN. The Vikings' quarterback room has been battling injuries all season, with quarterback J.J. McCarthy (concussion) in and out of the lineup at various times and veteran quarterback Carson Wentz (shoulder) having season-ending surgery earlier this season for a torn labrum. Wolford had seen limited action early in his career, with a stint with the Los Angeles Rams. It has been some time since Wolford has taken a meaningful snap in a regular-season NFL game, but he could be called upon to play on Sunday against a tough Seattle defense.
From RotoBaller
The Los Angeles Chargers have promoted running back Jaret Patterson from the practice squad to their active roster ahead of Week 13's game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This move is likely to increase depth in a weakened Chargers backfield and support lead running back Kimani Vidal. Vidal has been the only healthy running back on the roster since fellow running backs Omarion Hampton (ankle), Najee Harris (Achilles), and Hassan Haskins (hamstring) have landed on injured reserve. Patterson has proven to be a capable change-of-pace running back in the NFL, having played for both the Chargers and the Washington Commanders. He will aim to relieve Vidal and share some of the workload in Week 13.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Jonnu Smith has seen limited work in the offense over the last few weeks. Since Week 10, Smith has seen a combined seven targets and two rushing attempts. The 30-year-old has yet to be a consistent fantasy option and has only had two productive weeks this season. Entering Week 13, Smith will face a tough Buffalo Bills passing defense that has allowed the fewest receiving yards this season. However, the Bills' run defense has allowed the third-most rushing yards this season. The Steelers' offense may want to establish the run game early against a run-funnel Bills defense and take pressure off quarterback Aaron Rodgers (wrist), who is still battling a left wrist injury. Smith is difficult to trust for fantasy managers heading into Week 13 and is mainly an option in deep leagues.
From RotoBaller
Atlanta Falcons wide receiver David Sills V made the most of his opportunity last week with Drake London (knee) absent, hauling in two of his three targets for 16 yards and one touchdown. London has been ruled out for Week 13 again, so Sills should get an opportunity to be fantasy relevant for a second straight game on Sunday. The 29-year-old will have to share looks with Darnell Mooney, Kyle Pitts Sr., Bijan Robinson, and others, so the veteran wideout is nothing more than a speculative flier in very deep leagues, especially given that Sunday's matchup versus the Jets is expected to be a low-scoring affair against a defense that has been fairly good against the pass in recent weeks.
From RotoBaller
Denver Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant is coming off his best performance of the season against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 11. The rookie wideout hauled in five of his six targets for 82 yards in the win. This was a solid showing from Bryant who has been a non-factor in the offense outside of that. Bryant has been held to two receptions or less in every game besides his most recent performance. It remains to be seen what kind of involvement Bryant will have coming out of the bye week. He'll likely be a distant third option behind Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin. Bryant is worth a stash in dynasty formats, but isn't a recommended starting option against the Washington Commanders this weekend.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Kendrick Bourne has been a non-factor in the offense over the last few weeks. In fact, Bourne hasn't hauled in a pass since Week 10. Honestly, Bourne hasn't been a factor in the offense since his five-catch performance against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 6. The 49ers are getting healthy on offense and Bourne is falling out of the offensive gameplan. Last week, Bourne saw a season-low nine percent of the offensive snaps during the win over the Carolina Panthers. Bourne is unlikely to help unless an injury happens, so the 30-year-old is best left on the bench ahead of Week 13.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears continues to have a limited upside while splitting up the reps in the backfield. Spears has good long term upside, but has a limited ceiling while he continues to split up the backfield duties with Tony Pollard. At the moment, Pollard gets most of the ground work while Spears does the receiving work in the backfield. Last week, Spears rushed three times for four yards, while hauling in four receptions for 21 yards in the loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The 24-year-old is worth stashing in dynasty formats, but doesn't have great upside in redraft formats. At best, Spears offers low-end flex value for the upcoming matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans tight end Chig Okonkwo (foot) is officially listed as questionable ahead of the Week 13 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Okonkwo has been limited in practice this week due to a lingering foot issue. When healthy, Okonkwo has been a lackluster option for fantasy managers this season. The 26-year-old has been playing better lately with six receptions for 96 yards over his last two games. Despite that, Okonkwo will still have limited upside due to the fact he'll continue splitting up the playing time with Gunnar Helm. It doesn't seem like Okonkwo is going to be 100 percent healthy for this game. Fantasy managers should consider him on the lower end in the TE2 conversation for Week 13.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans tight end Gunnar Helm is coming off his best performance of the season. Helm hauled in six of his seven targets for 51 yards during the loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The rookie tight end has stepped up his play recently with 10 receptions over his last two games. His role in the offense could increase this weekend with Chig Okonkwo (foot) currently questionable for the Week 13 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. If he sits, Helm would take over as the primary tight end in this offense for at least one game. Regardless, Helm has done enough lately to be worth a look as a TE2 in deep leagues for this weekend.
From RotoBaller