Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 15

In the kingdom of fantasy football, the playoffs are finally upon us, casting a restless shadow over the entire realm. For those fortunate enough to have secured a bye week, you now gaze down from your perch like a king on a throne, observing as the less fortunate strive for glory. Yet, be wary, this respite is but a brief interlude, and ambitious rivals are eager to seize your coveted seat. Regardless of your current standing, remember that your roster’s journey continues even as you rest. Strategic preparation is key, as the age-old saying goes, “a strong defense wins championships.” Seek out handcuff running backs, fortify your defenses for the coming weeks, and attend to the finer details, for in this game of thrones, it is the small things that tilt the balance. As brave warriors gear up for the impending battles, we salute your valor, for the night is dark and full of terrors. Craft your game plan, repel potential adversaries, and brace yourself for the battle ahead. Winter is coming, whether you are ready or not. Let me guide you to the most heroic waiver wire pickups of Week 15, safeguarding your path to triumph from those who attempt to hinder your inevitable ascent.

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Running Backs

Ty Chandler, RB, Minnesota Vikings – Despite Ty Chandler‘s quiet performance, he matched his season high in touches in Week 14. In a game that turned out to be one of the lowest-scoring affairs in recent memory, the Minnesota Vikings clinched a 3-0 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, limiting scoring opportunities for fantasy assets. However, an interesting opportunity arose for Chandler when the lead back, Alexander Mattison, sustained an ankle injury early in the second half of the game. In an expanded role, Chandler carried the ball 12 times for 35 yards and caught all three of his targets, gaining an additional seven yards. While this stat line may seem underwhelming, Chandler has demonstrated notable performances earlier in the season, notably in Week 11, where he gained 73 yards from ten carries and added 37 receiving yards on four targets. Previous discussions in our waiver wire articles highlighted how Chandler had previously displayed more juice in his runs compared to Mattison, making him an intriguing option with a larger workload. If Mattison remains sidelined in the upcoming week, Chandler could emerge as a compelling option in a matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, it is worth noting that his scoring opportunities might be affected as Minnesota grapples with ongoing quarterback uncertainties.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire/ Jerick McKinnon, RBs, Kansas City Chiefs – A global rush to the waiver wire ensued after news broke that Isiah Pacheco would likely miss Sunday’s game due to a shoulder injury. The challenge, however, was deciding between Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon for priority pickups, and even after the game, uncertainty lingers about who will command more valuable touches if Pacheco’s absence continues. Despite a quieter day for fantasy purposes, Edwards-Helaire led the Kansas City backfield in touches in Week 14 with 13. In a heartbreaking loss to the Buffalo Bills, he turned 11 carries into 39 yards and caught two of his four targets for an additional 29 yards. On the flip side, McKinnon, despite fewer snaps and opportunities, delivered the more noteworthy fantasy performance. He turned four carries into 19 yards and caught all three of his targets for 18 yards, boosted by a rushing touchdown. The preferred goal-line back between the two remains uncertain, a potentially crucial factor in determining the more intriguing option during Pacheco’s absence. Despite the current uncertainties, we recommend prioritizing both options if available in your league. If Pacheco misses more time and one emerges as the lead back, they could hold league-winning potential. McKinnon showcased this last season, finishing as the RB6 or better in three of his last four games, concluding the fantasy football season. While lightning striking twice is rare, this high-powered offense has the potential to deliver once again.

Tyjae Spears, RB, Tennessee Titans – In our previous week’s waiver wire article, we suggested adding Tyjae Spears amid concerns about Derrick Henry‘s potential absence in Week 14 due to concussion protocols. Although the anticipation for the rookie running back was dampened when Henry was ultimately declared active for Monday night’s game, Spears, even as Henry’s backup, showcases significant talent. Specifically, his unique skills in the passing game make him an intriguing fantasy option. Despite playing in the shadow of the exceptional Derrick Henry, Spears’ untapped potential came to the forefront in Week 13, where he seized increased opportunities, turning 17 carries into 75 yards and contributing four receptions on six targets for an additional 13 yards. This standout performance likely earned the rookie more opportunities moving forward. Even with Henry active in Monday night’s game, Spears remained heavily involved, rushing the ball seven times for 29 yards and catching six of his eight targets for an additional 89 yards. With consecutive standout performances, Spears has emerged as a player who should be rostered in all fantasy leagues. Furthermore, he benefits from one of the most favorable schedules to close out the year, with his next challenge against a vulnerable Houston Texans‘ defense.

Zamir White/ Ameer Abdullah, RBs, Las Vegas Raiders – Amidst the barrage of injuries in the 2023 NFL season, the Las Vegas Raiders added to the list in their recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Josh Jacobs suffered a knee injury in the fourth quarter, sidelining him for the remainder of the game. Unfortunately for Jacobs and fantasy managers, the Raiders face a quick turnaround with a Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday night. Due to this, it currently appears unlikely for Jacobs to suit up, and his absence could extend depending on the injury’s severity. Assessing who stands to benefit the most in the Raiders’ running back room in Jacobs’ potential absence is a challenging task. Zamir White may profile as a back capable of handling a fuller workload, but his young career lacks evidence that his collegiate production translates at the professional level.  He only had two carries for eight yards in Week 14 and did not receive a target. Conversely, veteran running back Ameer Abdullah could emerge as the more valuable of the two, though he leans towards a change-of-pace role on passing downs. Abdullah’s limited workload in the previous game included one carry for 12 yards and catching both of his targets for an additional seven yards. This situation echoes the current running back situation in Kansas City, albeit with less excitement generated by the offense, and neither player displays tremendous fantasy potential. Nevertheless, starting running backs are currently a scarce commodity and should not be left on waivers. Both White and Abdullah deserve appropriate priority this week and can be started if needed in a favorable matchup against a vulnerable Los Angeles Chargers‘ defense.

D’Onta Foreman, RB, Chicago Bears – D’Onta Foreman has been a frequent mention in our waiver wire pickups this season. Despite facing competition from Roschon Johnson and Khalil Herbert for control of the Chicago Bears‘ backfield during Foreman’s absence due to an ankle injury, he seamlessly reclaimed his lead role after a one-game hiatus. In a dominant victory over the Detroit Lions, the veteran running back turned 11 carries into 50 yards and caught two of his three targets for an additional 22 yards. The Chicago backfield has been a perplexing puzzle to trust and evaluate throughout the season, marked by players emerging and disappearing rapidly. Nevertheless, Foreman’s significant usage in his return to action is promising, making him a worthwhile roster addition in most leagues. Unfortunately, his upcoming matchup against the Cleveland Browns suggests it might be challenging to anticipate a standout performance from him in the first week of the fantasy football playoffs.

Chase Brown, RB, Cincinnati Bengals – Allow me to introduce you to the Cincinnati Bengals‘ rookie running back, Chase Brown. Despite a subdued start to his career playing behind Joe Mixon, Brown caught attention with an efficient performance two weeks ago against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Carrying the ball nine times, he amassed 61 yards, showcasing an impressive 6.8 yards per carry average. While excelling on the ground, Brown had yet to demonstrate his receiving prowess, an element of his game that he excelled in, in his collegiate career. Following this breakout, all eyes were on the rookie to see if he could sustain his positive momentum. In a Week 14 win against the Indianapolis Colts, Brown delivered the best game of his early career. Carrying the ball eight times for 25 yards, he also caught all three of his targets for 80 yards and a touchdown. Notably, he sprinted for a 54-yard run on a dump-off, displaying lightning-quick speed and eluding defenders for the score. His tracked speed of 22.05 miles per hour on the GPS trailed only DK Metcalf this season. The rookie out of Illinois has now strung together consecutive impressive performances and aims to carry this momentum into a Week 15 clash with the Minnesota Vikings. While Brown will continue to play a complementary role to Joe Mixon, his recent performances hint at potential league-winning capability if Mixon were to miss time in the fantasy playoffs. Currently, Brown stands as an intriguing speculative addition, offering significant big-play potential each week due to his elite speed.

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Complete Waiver Wire Rankings

Wide Receivers

Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Baltimore Ravens – Despite falling out of his prime, Odell Beckham Jr. has recently showcased a return to high-level production. It is possible that the veteran wide receiver has been hanging around LeBron James, sipping from a similar fountain of youth. In a Week 14 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, Beckham Jr. hauled in four of his ten targets for 97 yards and a touchdown, visibly relishing the opportunity to face his former team with whom he won a Super Bowl. He has now scored double-digit fantasy points in four of his last five games, experiencing a career resurgence that coincided with the unfortunate season-ending injury to Mark Andrews. Even in the absence of their top offensive weapon, Baltimore has thrived, with Lamar Jackson performing at an elite level. While rookie wide receiver Zay Flowers has shown promise in recent weeks, Beckham Jr. has already displayed that he possesses the size and experience needed to be a true alpha wide receiver in the NFL. With a highly favorable schedule to conclude the season, Beckham Jr. emerges as an extremely intriguing addition, ready to be inserted into starting lineups immediately. His next opportunity to extend this hot streak comes in a Week 15 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Zay Jones, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars – In fantasy football, assessing a player’s potential worth heavily relies on opportunity and volume. Zay Jones has delivered intriguing performances this season, despite facing hindrances from various injuries. Recently, he has notched consecutive noteworthy outings. In Week 13, following Christian Kirk‘s season-ending injury early in the game, Jones caught five of eight targets for 78 yards. His efficiency dipped in Week 14, but the veteran wide receiver drew attention for a different reason. Despite finishing with just five receptions for 29 yards, he garnered a team-high 14 targets, showcasing his status as a trusted weapon for Trevor Lawrence. This established connection positions Jones to command a significant number of targets in the upcoming weeks. His potential for impactful performances rises, especially when opposing defenses are preoccupied with containing Calvin Ridley and Evan Engram. The only factor tempering our enthusiasm is a Week 15 matchup against the formidable Baltimore Ravens’ defense. Nevertheless, if Jones sustains this level of volume, he should not be overlooked on waivers.

Noah Brown, WR, Houston Texans – Unusual as it is for a player to headline our waiver wire pickups in consecutive weeks following a catchless stretch, Noah Brown emerges as a potential key figure in Houston. His significance increased after Tank Dell‘s season-ending ankle injury and increased even more when Nico Collins suffered a calf injury in Week 14, potentially sidelining him. Despite a lackluster recent performance, CJ Stroud‘s status as one of the league’s most exciting quarterbacks provides support for fantasy assets, demanding someone in the Texans’ receiver room to step up. Foremost among them is the undeniably intriguing Brown, notwithstanding his abysmal two-game return following a knee injury-induced absence. Despite failing to register a reception in the previous outing, he at least received five targets. Recalling Brown’s stellar pre-injury form is crucial, where he secured 13 receptions on 14 targets, accumulating 325 receiving yards in a two-game stretch. While expecting a repeat of a 150+ yard performance this season may be ambitious, anything is possible with CJ Stroud at the helm. The uncertainty lies in Stroud’s availability for Week 15 due to concussion protocols. Despite this, Brown remains a priority add, given the circumstances. Should Stroud be unable to play against the Tennessee Titans, trusting Davis Mills in the first week of the fantasy playoffs is not recommended. If Stroud clears concussion protocols, Brown faces a more favorable matchup against a vulnerable Tennessee Titans’ secondary compared to the previous week. Speculative considerations extend to Robert Woods, John Metchie, and Xavier Hutchinson in deeper leagues. However, trusting them for consistent performances remains challenging this late in the season.

Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, New York Giants – Who would have thought that a man with the nickname  “Tommy Cutlets” could win so many football games? Tommy DeVito, the Italian stallion hailing from New Jersey, once again impressed in Week 14. Stealing the limelight from last week’s standout, rookie wide receiver Jalin Hyatt, Monday Night Football witnessed the rise of a new receiving option. Wan’Dale Robinson showcased several exceptional plays that helped propel his team to victory against the Green Bay Packers. Robinson’s stellar performance included six receptions on seven targets, accumulating 79 yards, complemented by two carries for an impressive 36 rushing yards. Renowned for his elusiveness, Robinson proves to be a potent threat with the ball in his hands. Despite grappling with injuries following an impressive rookie campaign, Robinson has showcased glimpses of potential this season. Should he secure ample opportunities moving forward, Robinson possesses the skills to become a valuable fantasy asset, particularly in favorable matchups. With skepticism surrounding the entire receiver room’s reliability, it is pivotal to observe whether Robinson can build on this performance, especially in the upcoming Week 15 clash against the New Orleans Saints.

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Tight Ends

Isaiah Likely, TE, Baltimore Ravens – Following the unfortunate season-ending injury to Mark Andrews, fantasy teams faced the challenge of filling a void in their starting lineups. While replicating the star tight end’s weekly production may be a tall order, the Baltimore Ravens‘ depth chart features a capable backup in Isaiah Likely. In his first start after Andrews’ injury, Likely secured four of six targets for 40 yards. This performance came three weeks ago due to the team’s Week 13 bye. In a thrilling Week 14 victory against the Los Angeles Rams, Likely showcased his best performance of the season, concluding the game with five receptions on seven targets for 83 yards and a touchdown. His importance to the offense and his athletic ability were evident in several plays throughout the game. If this emerging tight end remains available, he stands out as our top pickup for the third consecutive week at the position. Looking ahead to Week 15 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Likely aims to further integrate himself into the offense, hopefully capitalizing on another favorable matchup for tight ends.

Chigoziem Okonkwo, TE, Tennessee Titans – While Chigoziem Okonkwo has yet to fully meet preseason expectations, he is currently on a hot streak worth bringing up. With five or more targets in three consecutive games, he has consistently delivered with 45+ receiving yards in each. In an impressive Week 14 victory against the Miami Dolphins on Monday night, Okonkwo caught five of six targets, amassing 46 yards. This follows a notable performance the previous week with a season-high 62 receiving yards. Despite a relatively quiet season, Okonkwo’s athleticism and speed make him a potential game-changer. Additionally, he concludes the year with one of the most favorable schedules among all tight ends. If he continues to capitalize on increased opportunities, he appears poised to be a reliable starter, and his first touchdown of the season may be imminent. Look out for his upcoming Week 15 matchup against the Houston Texans to see if he can sustain this positive momentum.

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Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots – While Hunter Henry has faced challenges in delivering consistent production, he has consistently shown a knack for being a touchdown machine. This was demonstrated in the early part of the season when he finished as the TE1 and TE2 in the first two weeks of the year. Despite a significant cooldown, Henry had a standout performance in a notable win over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night. Catching all three of his targets, he amassed 40 yards and scored two touchdowns. Though this performance stands out, it is crucial to note that this is the same offense that was held scoreless just a week prior. Of significance is Henry’s developing chemistry with the team’s new starting quarterback, Bailey Zappe. Zappe and the offense face a formidable challenge in the upcoming week against the Kansas City Chiefs, who aim to rebound from a frustrating Week 14 loss to the Buffalo Bills. Despite the challenging matchup, Henry could still surprise with another touchdown in this game, but his upside seems capped. If the New England Patriots escape this game in one piece against the defending champs, Henry is poised for a more favorable matchup in Week 16 against the Denver Broncos, known for their struggles in covering the tight end position.

Davis Allen, TE, Los Angeles Rams – Breaking from your regular programming, let’s spotlight a player who you probably have never heard of before. Filling in for the injured Tyler Higbee, Davis Allen had a standout performance that caught our attention. Despite the team’s loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the rookie tight end out of Clemson turned heads by snagging four of five targets for 50 yards and a touchdown. While it remains uncertain if Allen’s performance is enough to secure the starting tight end role while Higbee is sidelined, all indications suggest he is heading in that direction. He is more intriguing in dynasty leagues than redraft, but if he maintains a significant role, he could be worth a desperate start in favorable matchups. His next opportunity to showcase what he can bring to the table comes in a Week 15 matchup against the Washington Commanders.

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Quarterbacks

Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams – Amidst a long and legendary career marked by high productivity, Matthew Stafford has experienced a noticeable slowdown in the past couple of seasons. However, recent weeks have witnessed signs of a potential career resurgence, adding intrigue to his fantasy football prospects. Surrounded by elite options in Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, and Kyren Williams, the entire team is regaining health and hitting its stride at the perfect time. Stafford has capitalized on this momentum, delivering three or more touchdowns in three consecutive games. In the team’s recent loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the veteran quarterback displayed resilience by completing 23 of 41 pass attempts for 294 yards and three touchdowns, excelling despite adverse weather conditions and a formidable defensive matchup. As Week 15 approaches, Stafford is poised for a more favorable matchup against the depleted defensive unit of the Washington Commanders. Topping our list of quarterback pickups this week, the veteran quarterback is a compelling addition and could be seamlessly inserted into fantasy lineups.

Joe Flacco, QB, Cleveland Browns – Who would have predicted that Joe Flacco had this much left in the tank? After spending a significant portion of the season watching football from the couch, the veteran quarterback is seizing his newest opportunity with the Cleveland Browns. Despite the team boasting one of the most formidable defenses in the league, Flacco is showcasing his arm with over 40 pass attempts in both of his starts this year. In Cleveland’s Week 14 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Flacco completed 26 of 45 pass attempts for 311 yards and three touchdowns. This stat line is eerily reminiscent of the aforementioned Matthew Stafford‘s Week 14 performance. With a combined five passing touchdowns in his last two starts, Flacco has been named the team’s starter for the remainder of the season, barring any setbacks. The veteran quarterback aims to maintain his elite play in a Week 15 showdown with the Chicago Bears, warranting streaming consideration. Adding to his appeal, the Browns will face the Houston Texans in Week 16, providing one of the best fantasy matchups for quarterbacks on the season.

Jake Browning, QB, Cincinnati Bengals – Following Joe Burrow‘s season-ending injury, the prevailing assumption was that the Cincinnati Bengals‘ playoff aspirations had come to a halt. Little did we know that an emerging legend on the roster would rise to the occasion, keeping the team’s postseason hopes alive. Yes, I am being sarcastic about him being a legend, but also not entirely. Jake Browning has been nothing short of spectacular in his last two outings as the Cincinnati Bengals‘ starting quarterback. He has secured top-five fantasy finishes in consecutive weeks at the quarterback position, boasting an extraordinary 81.97% completion rate on his pass attempts. Beyond this remarkable efficiency, Browning has displayed unexpected mobility out of the pocket, contributing a rushing touchdown in each of these games. In the team’s Week 14 victory against the Indianapolis Colts, Browning completed 18 of 24 pass attempts for 275 yards and two touchdowns, adding three rushes for seven yards and another score. Similar to MVP candidate Brock Purdy, Browning benefits from leading a great offense with exceptional weapons and flawlessly executes the team’s game plan with elite efficiency. The respect he deserves for his performance is evident, and it might be time to consider him for your starting lineups, despite being an unheralded prospect. His next chapter in the legendary saga unfolds in a Week 15 showdown against the Minnesota Vikings.

Complete Waiver Wire Rankings

Team DEF/ST

Complete Waiver Wire Rankings

Weekly Waivers Episode of The Fantasy Footballers Podcast

Final Thoughts

“Dracarys!” For those unversed in the native tongue of High Valyrian, this incantation calls forth a dragon’s fiery wrath. In our upcoming matchup, we aim to harness this potent force to kindle a blaze in our fantasy teams so intense that it incinerates any challenger daring to obstruct our path to the throne. Exercise caution against the Rachaad White-walkers in the approaching week. Though they may have seemed unthreatening at the season’s outset, do not be deceived. Their unexpected volume in the passing game can prove pivotal, serving as a catalyst for your unforeseen downfall. In the land of Braavos, a common saying echoes: “Valar Morghulis,” translating to “all men must die.” While this may hold true in life’s ultimate reality, it need not be the fate of our fantasy teams, for championships live on forever. I bid you good luck in the battle ahead and I look forward to seeing you on the other side.

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