Week 2 Waivers & Streamers + Drop Candidates

Fantasy Football show for Sep 9, 2025. Waiver Wire pickups for Week 2! Which disappointing players are actually droppable? Find out which waiver adds can help fantasy football managers get a win in Week 2 and beyond! Plus, injury updates and a recap of Monday Night Football. Manage your redraft, keeper, and dynasty fantasy football teams with the #1 fantasy football podcast.

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Summary:

Recap of Week 1 NFL Games

“We are done with week one.”

• The hosts reflect on the completion of Week 1 in the NFL and discuss the exciting Monday Night Football game that caught the audience’s attention. They highlight the unexpected turn the game took, suggesting that the negative expectations were overturned as the game progressed into an entertaining experience.

Performance Analysis of Caleb Williams

“Caleb Williams started on fire.”

• Caleb Williams is discussed for his impressive opening performance, highlighting his initial success with a perfect completion rate. However, the hosts critique that despite his statistics, he exhibited nervousness, raising questions about his overall gameplay in a challenging environment. They explore how athletes can sometimes excel statistically while struggling with execution under pressure.

Coaching Strategy in High-Pressure Situations

“Kevin O’Connell just lets his players figure things out.”

• The hosts admire Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell for his approach during high-pressure moments, particularly after J.J. McCarthy‘s initial struggles. They stress the importance of allowing players to take risks to find their rhythm instead of overly managing their gameplay, which could hinder their performance.

Trade Talk: Tank Bigsby

“Tank Bigsby was traded after one week of barely being used.”

• In a significant trade announcement, the hosts discuss the Jacksonville Jaguars trading Tank Bigsby after limited usage in the first week. They speculate about the team’s strategy leading up to the trade and the implications for both Bigsby and the team’s future player dynamics.

Trades and Player Movement Analysis

“It’s very strange regarding just the trade overall. They’re going to go get Tank, and the compensation comes out, which for us seems like nothing.”

• The trade involving AJ Dillon raises many eyebrows, as it seems disproportionate given the day-three picks exchanged. The analysis suggests that quality players are often traded at low values, making this trade appear even stranger.
• Tank Bigsby‘s departure from Jacksonville indicates a clearer path for Travis Etienne. His performance in the first week was promising, suggesting that he could thrive in the current offensive scheme.

Injury Updates and Implications

“George Kittle is now expected to miss a few weeks due to a hamstring injury, and it might be IR.”

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• The outlook for George Kittle is dire, as he may miss several weeks due to a hamstring injury, possibly requiring him to be placed on injured reserve. This absence is significant for a team that relies heavily on his contributions in a struggling offense.
• The hosts comment on Jawan Jennings who avoided serious injury but remains an uncertain fantasy asset, especially given his lack of impactful performance in week one.

Coaching Decisions and Controversies

“It’s just so wild to me, if those reports are true, that your head coach is coming to you saying, we can’t play this guy anymore.”

• The segment delves into coaching decisions, particularly revolving around the quarterback situation with Russell Wilson. The discussion suggests that management’s control over player decisions complicates things, possibly hindering the coach’s strategy for the team.
• The hosts speculate on potential turmoil within the leadership as the coach grapples with not being allowed to make crucial decisions about starting players, which could affect team morale and performance.

Waiver Wire Strategy for Week One

“Week one and week two waivers are exceptionally important.”

• The beginning of the fantasy football season highlights the significance of utilizing the Waiver Wire effectively. It’s crucial to avoid overreacting to players’ performances during the first week, as many strong performances can be fleeting and result in wasted fab or waiver priorities.
• Statistical studies have shown that early pickups, particularly in weeks one and two, tend to yield greater returns in terms of fantasy points per game throughout the season. Players acquired during these weeks age better historically than those picked up later in the season.
• While it’s vital to make strategic additions now, it’s noted that this particular week witnessed minimal running back injuries, meaning there may not be many clear standout additions.

Evaluating Running Back Options

“In 2025, this season, the running back pickups, I feel like there are four decent options.”

• While the video points out that there are a few running back options worth considering, it suggests that there isn’t a standout player available, contrasting this week’s offerings to previous seasons.
• It mentions several potential pickups, including Quenchant Judkins, Dylan Sampson, and Bashal Tootin, with an emphasis on their varying immediate impact. Some players may serve as useful flex options while exhibiting the potential for greater value should starting players be sidelined by injury.
• Caution is advised with these running backs, indicating that if a top player like Judkins isn’t available, then strong investments in other running backs might not be warranted as there is uncertainty surrounding their starting roles.

Key Wide Receiver Additions

“Keenan Allen is a must-add.”

• The wide receiver section is headlined by two notable potential pickups: Keenan Allen and Quentin Johnston. Keenan Allen is highlighted as being available in around 40% of leagues, making him an immediate priority for many fantasy managers.
• Quentin Johnston is also advocated for, being a low-rostered player with the potential to provide high upside given his recent strong performance. He’s showcased as a viable option for leagues with more flexible rosters.
• Additionally, the contrasting dynamics of these receivers within their respective offenses are discussed, with Keenan Allen presenting more immediate value as a steady target in the Herbert-led passing game.

Player Comparisons and Expectations

“He’s compared to huge Keenan Allen… it’s just for a chunk of time which should make him cost less.”

• The discussion highlights a player whose performance may be temporary, suggesting that due to recent comparisons with established players like Keenan Allen, his cost may be lower in fantasy drafts. This indicates a strategic approach where value can be found in short-term performers.

Rising Stars to Consider

“Cedric Tillman is a must-add… there’s an argument that Tillman is more valuable than even Quentin Johnston.”

• Cedric Tillman has emerged as a strong fantasy football option with eight targets in his latest game and the potential to outperform more recognized players. At just 4% rostered, he represents a significant upside for fantasy managers looking to bolster their wide receiver corps.

Must-Add Wide Receivers

“Kayshawn Booty is a must-add.”

• Kayshawn Booty has shown promise, controlling a significant number of snaps and targets in his recent outing. Despite being a sixth-round pick, his past performances reflect his potential to become a reliable fantasy asset moving forward. The recommendation to prioritize Booty indicates the confidence in his ability to contribute significantly to fantasy teams.

Waiver Wire Resources

“Alec Iomanner had seven targets in Tennessee in a tough matchup against Denver.”

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• Iomanner is noted for his significant target share, suggesting he could be a valuable addition from the waiver wire. Even in tough matchups, his performance indicates he could provide immediate help to fantasy rosters, making him an attractive pick as leagues progress through the season.

Potential Drop Candidates

“I’m fine dropping Cooper Kupp.”

• The conversation turns to potential drop candidates, highlighting players who may no longer serve a strategic purpose in fantasy lineups. Dropping notable players like Cooper Kupp may come as a surprise, but it underscores the necessity for managers to adapt to fluctuating player performances and injuries within their rosters.

Key Player Insights

“Tyler Warren is probably the number one target for this team.”

• Tyler Warren is emerging as the top target on his team, having made a notable impact during week one. His involvement is crucial to the team’s offensive strategy.
• Michael Pittman is currently leading in snap percentage among receivers, suggesting he has a significant role, while Josh Downs can be considered for dropping but is not a must-drop at this point.
• Jaden Higgins is recommended to be retained due to his potential, especially since Josh Downs is recovering from an injury and could affect team dynamics.

Tight End Additions and Considerations

“There are some interesting names at the tight end position.”

• The tight end landscape is competitive with several players to target. Notable among them is Harold Fannin Jr., a rookie who has quickly turned heads with his performance, including nine targets in his debut.
• While David Njoku is expected to see opportunities, the presence of Fannin complicates his potential as both tight ends are likely to share the field significantly.
• Isaiah Likely should also be on fantasy players’ radars as he has the potential to benefit from Mark Andrews‘ absence. Similarly, Jawan Johnson’s targeted usage shows he’s becoming a significant player in the passing game.

Bench Strategy and Drop Candidates

“People want to know, can they drop Mark Andrews? Can they drop Evan Ingram?”

• Questions around dropping established players like Mark Andrews and Evan Ingram are common this season. Andrews’ current performance may justify dropping him for a more consistent option.
• Dropping less productive tight ends for up-and-coming players or backups might be a strategic move, especially if your fantasy roster needs bolstering at the tight end position. This is particularly applicable if your starters are underperforming.

Injuries and Defensive Rankings for Waiver Wire

“Evan Ingram has an injury concern this week, specifically a calf issue.”

• Evan Ingram is dealing with an injury, specifically a calf problem, which impacts the waiver wire decisions for fantasy football players seeking replacements.
• Arizona’s defense is highlighted as a potential pickup this week, especially after a strong showing against New Orleans in week one. Their matchup against Carolina makes them an appealing option.
• The Rams’ defense is also noted for its performance in week one, making them a top recommendation for fantasy managers, especially considering they will face Cam Ward in Tennessee.

Recommended Defensive Pickups

“The Rams’ defense impressed last week, particularly against the Texans, making them a great pickup.”

• The Rams’ defensive capabilities were on full display, contributing significantly to the Texans’ offensive line struggles.
• San Francisco’s defense is mentioned as a modest pickup option, currently sitting at 59 percent rostered, as they are set to face New Orleans.
• The New England Patriots, at 26 percent rostered, face an underperforming Miami team, making them an intriguing consideration.
• Dallas’ defense is highlighted as being only 5 percent rostered, with an upcoming game against the Giants, which could increase their value, especially with Russell Wilson being named the starter.

Fantasy Dashboard and Resources

“Check out the ultimate dashboard for tailored waiver wire rankings specific to your fantasy league.”

• The ultimate dashboard available on fantasyfootballers.com provides customized waiver wire rankings and in-season resources tailored to individual leagues.
• Users can download the Fantasy Footballers app for enhanced access to these features, particularly beneficial for Foot Clan members.
• The hosts emphasize how much easier fantasy football management has become with the dashboard, especially compared to manual tracking methods used in previous years.

Quarterback Streaming Picks for Week Two

“Justin Fields has the potential to be a top streaming option, especially after his performance against Buffalo.”

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• Justin Fields is presented as a must-grab for fantasy players looking for quarterback streaming options, showcasing his mobility and ability to perform well under pressure.
• He is expected to stand out against Buffalo, as the game plan appears to favor him taking advantage of his running skills.
• Justin Herbert is also discussed as a high-value streaming option for the week, benefiting from an impressive start and a strong supporting cast of wide receivers, particularly in an upcoming prime-time matchup.

Emerging Quarterback Talents

“Drake May is a player to watch after Miami’s disappointing performance, looking to capitalize on their struggles.”

• Drake May is presented as a streaming option worthy of consideration, following Miami’s weak showing in the previous week, which made other quarterbacks, like Daniel Jones, look exceptionally good.
• The competition among promising quarterbacks from last year’s draft class is emphasized, comparing May’s potential to established talents and fostering a discussion on their respective performances and projections for the season.

Season Predictions and Breakdowns

“Some things we think are not working out according to our perspective coming into the year.”

• The hosts reflect on their initial predictions for the fantasy football season, acknowledging that certain aspects have not aligned with their expectations. This insight highlights the unpredictable nature of player performance and team dynamics in football, suggesting that flexibility in strategy is essential for success.

Upcoming Content and Community Engagement

“Hang out with us on the Discord. Join thefoot.com.”

• The podcast encourages listeners to connect with the community through Discord and their platform, jointhefoot.com. This social engagement is presented as a way for fans to discuss strategy, ask questions, and share experiences, illustrating the importance of community in navigating the fantasy football landscape.

Additional Resources and Support Tools

“And don’t forget, the ultimate dashboard.”

• The hosts remind listeners about the availability of an ‘ultimate dashboard’, a tool that presumably offers vital statistics and analytics to enhance their fantasy football experience. The mention of this resource suggests that having access to comprehensive data can make a significant difference in effective decision-making during the season.