Kayshon Boutte, WR (NE)
Rostered: 37%
Kayshon Boutte is becoming a strong waiver wire target after returning from a hamstring injury in Week 12 and immediately stepping back into a major role. He ranked second among Patriots wideouts in snaps and led the team in routes, reaffirming his position as the primary X receiver when healthy. While his production was limited to 15 yards and a modest 5.7% target share, his deep-threat usage alongside Drake Maye keeps him firmly in the weekly Flex conversation. New England has lacked stability at receiver all year, but Boutte’s ability to stretch the field has earned him consistent trust from the coaching staff. With the Patriots committed to narrowing their rotation, Boutte’s snap share jumping above 80% for the first time since Week 1 is a major signal that his role is stabilizing heading into Week 13.
The Giants and Ravens, his next two opponents, both rank inside the top 12 in deep-ball completion rate allowed, setting the stage for potential splash plays. The Giants have surrendered the sixth-most fantasy points to wide receivers and the third-most deep-target receiving yards, making this a prime bounce-back spot. With a favorable fantasy playoff schedule following the Week 14 bye, Boutte offers Flex upside with big-play potential. If you are looking for an underrated flex option over the next few weeks, Boutte is your guy.
Dalton Schultz, TE (HOU)
Rostered: 47%
Dalton Schultz continues to operate as one of the most reliable tight end options available on the waiver wire, delivering strong volume and efficiency since Week 3. Over that span, he’s posted an 18.2% target share and 20.4% 1st read share. His 10.7 PPR points per game rank among the best streaming options, supported by six red-zone targets, five deep targets, and top-12 marks across receptions, receiving yards, and YAC among tight ends. Schultz’s usage on 80% route participation and over 70% of offensive snaps ensures a bankable weekly floor. With Houston continuing to lean heavily on the passing attack, Schultz remains a steady TE1 candidate in upcoming favorable matchups.
The upcoming schedule makes Schultz one of the top waiver wire priorities for managers needing tight end help. The Colts and Cardinals, two of the Texans’ next three opponents, have struggled against tight ends, ranking second and eighth in fantasy points allowed. While he’s not a high-ceiling play, his combination of red-zone usage, deep targets, and stable role creates a dependable TE1 profile. With his production outpacing most other waiver-wire tight ends by a considerable margin, Schultz is a must-add wherever he remains available. If you need stability during the fantasy playoff push, Schultz is one of the strongest pickups at the position.
Chris Rodriguez Jr, RB (WAS)
Rostered: 16%
Chris Rodriguez Jr. is shaping up to be one of the most important running back additions on the waiver wire heading into Week 13. After starting in Weeks 10 and 11 and returning from injury to handle 15 carries for 79 yards in Week 12, Rodriguez looks locked in as Washington’s lead back. He’s averaging 4.7 yards per carry and has outperformed Jacory Croskey-Merritt in every meaningful area of usage. Although the Commanders face two tough matchups against Denver and Minnesota, Rodriguez’s role is secure, and his workload should remain strong. Any running back receiving 15+ touches on a weekly basis carries immediate fantasy value, and Rodriguez fits the mold of a late-season breakout back.
Rodriguez’s playoff schedule is what makes him one of the top waiver wire priorities across all formats. The Commanders face the Giants, Eagles, and Cowboys in Weeks 15–17—three defenses that have allowed significant production to opposing running backs. Washington has shown a willingness to feature one primary runner when healthy, and Rodriguez has handled 33 carries for 160 yards and two touchdowns over his last three outings. Even if the next two matchups are riskier, adding Rodriguez now prevents league-mates from scooping up a potential playoff difference-maker. Croskey-Merritt remains a handcuff, but Rodriguez is the back to roster. In a thin RB landscape, Rodriguez offers immediate depth with RB2 upside once the fantasy playoffs begin, making him one of this week’s top waiver wire adds.
Trevor Lawrence, QB (JAC)
Rostered: 49%
Trevor Lawrence is one of the more polarizing quarterback options on the waiver wire, offering both weekly frustration and undeniable upside. Inconsistent performances have left managers guessing, but his recent rushing usage, five or more carries and three touchdowns over his last four games, adds valuable fantasy stability. Week 12 encapsulated his season perfectly: 256 passing yards and three touchdowns, countered by three interceptions. Even with top targets like Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter sidelined recently, Lawrence has still scored at least 16 points in six of his last seven games. Since Week 6, his average of 17.7 fantasy points ranks 14th among quarterbacks with at least three starts, placing him on the QB1 fringe.
Lawrence’s upcoming schedule strengthens his appeal as a waiver wire pickup for managers streaming the quarterback position. Matchups with the Titans, Colts (twice), Jets, and Broncos give him multiple opportunities to post solid numbers, especially as the Jaguars continue leaning heavily on the passing game. Among widely available quarterbacks, only Jacoby Brissett and Joe Flacco have matched his production, but Flacco is expected to lose his job. Lawrence continues to outperform most of the available pool and offers both a stable floor and occasional top-10 upside. For managers navigating injuries or inconsistent play at quarterback, Lawrence is a strong add with the potential to stabilize lineups down the stretch.
Christian Watson, WR (GB)
Rostered: 48%
Christian Watson is re-emerging as a high-upside wide receiver on the waiver wire after leading the Packers in target share (31.8%) and receiving yards in Week 12. While his numbers weren’t gaudy, Watson now has back-to-back weeks operating as Jordan Love’s top read in the passing game, combining a 19.2% target share in Week 11 with elite air-yard involvement. Since returning from his ACL tear, he has seen at least four targets in every game and appears to be regaining his explosive form. Watson’s role as Green Bay’s primary downfield threat is also promising, as he carries a 22.6 average depth of target and over a 20% first-read share since returning. With matchups against deep-ball-vulnerable defenses such as the Bears, Ravens, and Vikings ahead, Watson offers major big-play potential.
Watson’s increasing volume paired with his deep role makes him a prime waiver wire pickup for managers seeking a late-season WR3 with spike-week upside. He has developed into Jordan Love’s most trusted target, catching at least four passes in three of his last five outings and scoring twice in Week 11. While Jayden Reed’s eventual return could slightly reduce his target share, Watson’s skill set keeps him firmly on the fantasy radar. Deep-ball defenses on his schedule all rank inside the top eight in completion rate allowed, creating multiple opportunities for splash plays. With his roster percentage still under 50%, Watson remains one of the strongest WR adds available.
Devin Neal, RB (NO)
Rostered: 3%
Devin Neal becomes one of the most important running back stashes on the waiver wire after stepping into a full-time role when Alvin Kamara exited Week 12 with a knee injury. Neal played 57 of 66 snaps following Kamara’s departure and handled seven carries along with a season-best five receptions for 43 yards. While his rushing efficiency wasn’t ideal, his passing-game involvement kept him fantasy-relevant and showcased his versatility. With Kendre Miller already out for the year and Taysom Hill being used more situationally, Neal profiles as the clear lead back if Kamara misses additional time. New Orleans has the third-best remaining schedule for running backs, giving Neal immediate Flex potential in favorable matchups.
While New Orleans has struggled on offense this year, opportunity is everything with a plethora of bye weeks coming in Week 14. If Kamara sits, Neal immediately becomes one of the top waiver wire adds of the week and a candidate for 12–15 touches. Even if Kamara returns soon, Neal should still be rostered as one of the most valuable insurance backs available. In a landscape desperate for RB opportunities, Neal is a must-stash on the waiver wire with legitimate Flex potential if Kamara misses time.
Jayden Higgins, WR (HOU)
Rostered: 22%
Jayden Higgins is climbing the waiver wire ranks after another strong performance highlighted by a 30% target share, 38 receiving yards, and a touchdown in Week 12. His route participation has grown steadily, hitting 67.7% last game, and his per-route efficiency has been outstanding with a 33% target-per-route run rate and 1.93 YPRR since Week 10. Higgins has now seen at least seven targets in three straight weeks and has three touchdowns in his last five games. His red-zone involvement, deep targets, and growing chemistry with Davis Mills have all boosted his fantasy outlook. As his playing time rises past the 57% snap threshold, Higgins is trending toward becoming a weekly Flex option with WR3 upside.
Higgins’ recent surge makes him a priority waiver wire stash with breakout potential down the stretch. Earlier in the year, he struggled to earn consistent snaps when Nico Collins was healthy, but the Texans are now integrating him more heavily into their offense. His nine targets on TNF, season-best usage, and steady improvement each week show a young player gaining momentum at the right time. With Houston’s offense focusing on balance and explosive plays, Higgins’ downfield and red-zone roles create legitimate late-season upside. While he’s not a locked-in starter yet, the usage and efficiency trends are too strong to ignore. Managers searching the waiver wire for a high-upside wideout should target Higgins.
Luther Burden, WR (CHI)
Rostered: 11%
Luther Burden continues to rise as one of the most intriguing waiver wire stashes after earning starter-level usage in back-to-back weeks. After surpassing Olamide Zaccheaus on the depth chart in Week 11, Burden followed it up with a 60% route share and 46 receiving yards in Week 12 while also receiving a rushing attempt. His first-read share has been quietly strong over the past two weeks, and his role has grown even with Rome Odunze and D.J. Moore fully healthy. Burden brings explosive YAC ability and is being used creatively within the offense, showing signs of a player the coaching staff wants to feature more. Although Caleb Williams missed him on potential big plays, Burden’s separation ability and increased snap share signal more upside ahead.
Burden’s snap rate climbing above 50% for the first time in his career underscores his growing importance to the Bears’ offensive structure. Chicago has been gradually consolidating their rotation, and Burden is now mixing into single-receiver sets and seeing consistent work in three-receiver formations. Moore, Odunze, and Burden all produced similar yardage in Week 12, suggesting Burden is closing the gap rapidly in terms of weekly opportunity. While he’s not startable just yet, his trajectory makes him one of the most valuable long-term WR stashes on the waiver wire. As his involvement continues to increase, Burden has the athletic profile to erupt during fantasy playoffs. Managers looking for a high-upside late-season breakout candidate should secure him now before the window closes.
Chimere Dike, WR (TEN)
Rostered: 45%
Chimere Dike is emerging as a strong waiver wire play after stepping into a massive role with the Titans missing Calvin Ridley (IR) and Elic Ayomanor (hamstring) in Week 12. With Tennessee down to Dike, Van Jefferson, Mason Kinsey, and practice-squad call-ups, Dike functioned as their primary receiver in 11 and 12 personnel. He already ranked ninth in the NFL in designed target share before this uptick, and the Titans rank ninth in pass plays per game, fueling consistent weekly opportunity. Tennessee’s offense has leaned heavily on Dike in recent weeks, and with minimal competition for targets, he is well-positioned to maintain WR3-level value. His growing role aligns perfectly with a schedule that features the 15th-easiest slate for wide receivers over the next three games.
Dike has flashed some upside this year as well, and since Week 7, he is averaging 13.1 PPG while returning multiple punts for touchdowns. His strong-designed target metrics and the team’s pass-heavy tendencies give him a reliable floor and a clear path to spike weeks. As Tennessee navigates a favorable schedule ahead, Dike profiles as a WR3 who could provide meaningful value during the fantasy playoff push. Managers searching the waiver wire for dependable volume and role stability should prioritize Dike as one of this week’s strongest wide receiver adds.
Los Angeles Chargers, DEF
Rostered: 38%
The Los Angeles Chargers defense hasn’t been a consistent fantasy option this season, ranking outside the top 20 in defensive scoring, but the Week 13 matchup against the Raiders puts them squarely on the streaming radar. Geno Smith has been a turnover machine with 13 interceptions and has taken an alarming 41 sacks, including 10 last week alone. The Raiders’ offensive line continues to battle injuries and has struggled to provide any protection, creating an ideal setup for the Chargers’ pass rush. Even with their inconsistencies, the Chargers have flashed upside with three double-digit fantasy performances, all coming against volatile offenses similar to the one they’ll face this week. Their floor has been shakier with two negative outings, but this matchup presents one of the most favorable game environments they’ve had all season.
The Chargers have already produced a double-digit outing against the Raiders earlier this year, and the matchup remains appealing with Las Vegas averaging just 15 points per game and clearing 20 points only once in their last five contests. Coming off a bye week, Los Angeles should be rested, prepared, and in position to capitalize on a struggling offense that has shown little consistency. Their current roster rate sits at 38%, making them widely available for fantasy managers searching for a Week 13 streamer. Given their previous performance in this matchup and the current state of the Raiders’ offense, the Chargers are a strong defensive play this week.
Injury Adds
Dylan Sampson, Raheem Mostert, Zamir White
(Add if Ashton Jeanty or Quinshon Judkins are expected to miss time)
Cleveland’s backfield is one to monitor closely after Quinshon Judkins took multiple trips to the blue medical tent during Week 12. Judkins has handled the early-down role all season, with Dylan Sampson working as his primary backup and Jerome Ford handling passing situations. That rotation held until the fourth quarter, when Sampson played seven of 11 snaps while Judkins repeatedly exited for medical evaluation. Although Judkins returned to finish the game, the usage shift combined with the injury scare makes Sampson a priority stash. The Browns have a friendly schedule ahead for running backs, and any missed time from Judkins would immediately push Sampson into start territory in fantasy football.
The Raiders’ backfield also deserves attention after Ashton Jeanty suffered an ankle injury late in Week 12 and didn’t return. Raheem Mostert has operated as the primary backup since Week 4, with Dylan Laube active mostly for special teams, but Zamir White would become fantasy-relevant if Jeanty sits. White profiles as the early-down leader in a potential two-man committee with Mostert, who has been used more as a receiving option the past two seasons. The firing of offensive coordinator Chip Kelly, who had prior ties to Mostert, could further shift the workload toward White if Jeanty is sidelined. With an average matchup against the Chargers in Week 13 and a manageable rest-of-season schedule, White becomes an intriguing injury-contingent pickup.
Honorable Waiver Wire Mentions
- Tyrod Taylor QB (NYJ) – 3% rostered
- Shedeuer Sanders QB (CLE) – 6% rostered
- Bhayshul Tuten RB (JAC) – 45% rostered
- Nick Chubb RB (HOU) – 46% rostered
- Devin Singletary RB (NYG) – 25% rostered
- Jaleel McLaughlin RB (DEN) – 1% rostered
- Parker Washington WR (JAC) – 40% rostered
- Tez Johnson WR (TB) – 28% rostered
- Jalen Coker WR (CAR) – 5% rostered
- Greg Dortch WR (ARI) – 9% rostered
- John Metchie WR (NYJ) – 1% rostered
- Adonai Mitchell WR (NYJ) – 2% rostered
- Colston Lovelad TE (CHI) – 43% rostered
- Brenton Strange TE (JAC) – 13% rostered
- AJ Barner TE (SEA) – 18% rostered
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers DEF – 22% rostered
- Jacksonville Jaguars DEF – 42% rostered
Droppable Players
- Joe Flacco QB (CIN)
- Jordan Mason RB (MIN)
- Rashid Shaheed WR (SEA)
- Chris Godwin WR (TB)
- TJ Hockenson TE (MIN)
Don’t Drop these Guys Just Yet
- Baker Mayfield QB (TB)
- David Montgomery RB (DET)
- Rhamondre Stevenson RB (NE)
- Jordan Addison WR (MIN)
- Kyle Pitts TE (ATL)
