Top Picks for Your Fantasy Football Week 3 Waiver Wire: Jerome Ford and Beyond

NFL Fantasy Football Week 3 Waiver Wire: Jerome Ford and More Breakout Free-Agent Pickups

Introduction

The first two weeks of the 2023 fantasy football season have come to a close, and it is becoming evident which potential breakout stars are the real deal and which just had a momentary flash of brilliance. Now is the time for managers to capitalize on consistent performers who are still available in their league by placing waiver wire claims ahead of Week 3. It is also a great opportunity to assess your roster and trim the fat. If you took a chance on some high-upside players who have not contributed, it may be time to let them go. Roster spots are valuable, and having players who are not contributing can hamper your team’s depth. With bye weeks starting in Week 5 and continuing through Week 14, having a solid bench is crucial to navigate the challenges of the season.

Best Potential Waiver Wire Pickups

Here are five of the best potential waiver wire pickups who are available in at least 50 percent of Yahoo! fantasy leagues. These players are forecasted to make an impact and should be added to your team before they get snapped up by your opponents.

C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans (9 Percent Rostered)

C.J. Stroud, the rookie quarterback for the Houston Texans, is proving himself to be a talented player despite the team’s 0-2 start. Stroud has shown promise with limited support from his teammates, and this is translating into quality fantasy production. With 626 passing yards and no interceptions, Stroud has the potential to be a high-end QB2 with weekly QB1 upside. If you are unsatisfied with your current starting quarterback or need a good backup, consider adding Stroud.

Jerome Ford, RB, Cleveland Browns (18 Percent Rostered)

Jerome Ford, the new starting running back for the Cleveland Browns, should be a must-add in every fantasy league he’s available in. With Nick Chubb sidelined due to a season-ending knee injury, Ford will step into an increased role. In his first opportunity as the primary running back, Ford impressed with 106 rushing yards, a touchdown, and 25 receiving yards. It is likely that Ford will receive the majority of work while the team assesses their options. Add Ford and monitor any potential roster moves the Browns make in the coming days.

Matt Breida, RB, New York Giants (3 Percent Rostered)

With Saquon Barkley suffering a hamstring injury, Matt Breida may take on a much bigger role for the New York Giants. While Barkley’s exact timetable for return is uncertain, it is probable that he will miss Week 3. Breida, who played a key role in the team’s Week 2 comeback victory, has the potential to be a valuable fantasy option, especially in PPR leagues. As the Giants face the San Francisco 49ers, Breida could have a significant impact if he starts in place of Barkley.

Justice Hill, RB, Baltimore Ravens (44 Percent Rostered)

Despite J.K. Dobbins’ season-ending injury, Justice Hill is surprisingly still available in 56 percent of Yahoo leagues. Hill saw respectable volume in Week 2 and turned in a decent fantasy performance. With the Ravens emphasizing the running game, Hill is poised to have consistent fantasy production. With the potential for double-digit touches and involvement in goal-line work, Hill should no longer be on the waiver wire.

Tutu Atwell, WR, Los Angeles Rams (25 Percent Rostered)

Tutu Atwell has emerged as a key component of the Los Angeles Rams’ offense and has already accumulated 196 receiving yards in the first two games of the season. After a breakout performance against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1, Atwell continued to shine against the San Francisco 49ers. With a significant number of targets and strong offensive production, Atwell is a must-add for fantasy managers in need of receiving help.

Josh Reynolds, WR, Detroit Lions (11 Percent Rostered)

Josh Reynolds has been a standout for the Detroit Lions and could have his best season to date. With nine receptions for 146 yards and two touchdowns over the first two weeks, Reynolds has the potential to be a consistent fantasy producer. While his role may be impacted by the return of Jameson Williams, Reynolds should continue to be a quality fantasy option until at least Week 7.

Luke Musgrave, TE, Green Bay Packers (25 Percent Rostered)

Although the outlook for free-agent fantasy tight ends is not very promising, Luke Musgrave is showing signs of breaking out. While his production has been limited in the first two games, Musgrave has demonstrated his potential with five receptions for 75 yards. With a high offensive snap percentage and involvement in route running, Musgrave is poised to become a favorite target for young quarterback Jordan Love.

Conclusion

As the fantasy football season progresses, it is crucial to stay ahead of the curve by making smart waiver wire pickups. The players discussed above have demonstrated the potential to make a significant impact and should be considered by fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters. By being proactive and acquiring these breakout players, managers can give themselves an edge in their leagues and increase their chances of success.