Fantasy Football Week 14: Waiver Wire Gems to Save Your Season
The NFL is a “next man up” league, and by extension, so is your fantasy football league. Sure, you built your team during the draft, but let’s be real—your playoff hopes hinge on the moves you make as the season unfolds. Every week, we’re here to help you uncover the hidden gems available in more than 50% of ESPN leagues. These are the players whose value is trending up and could be the key to your playoff push, whether as starters or smart bench stashes.
Next Man Up
Fantasy managers, buckle up because “bye-mageddon” is back for another round. This week, the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots, and Washington Commanders are all on bye. That’s a lot of firepower sitting on the fantasy sidelines just as teams are fighting to lock in playoff spots.
But the biggest headline of the week? Sunday night delivered a gut punch to fantasy managers everywhere. Christian McCaffrey, the San Francisco 49ers superstar running back, suffered what is believed to be a PCL injury in his right knee during the game against the Bills. This could jeopardize the rest of his season. It’s a brutal blow, especially since McCaffrey had just returned in Week 10 after missing most of training camp and the first eight games of the season due to Achilles tendinitis.
Enter Jordan Mason (rostered in 41.7% of ESPN leagues). Mason has already proven he can step up when McCaffrey is sidelined. Earlier this season, he averaged 18 touches per game and ranked as the 10th-highest scoring fantasy RB during his stint as the 49ers’ starter, despite missing most of Week 6 himself. On Sunday, Mason delivered again, racking up 13 carries for 78 yards. Rookie Isaac Guerendo (1.3%) also made his mark, scoring the 49ers’ only touchdown of the game.
Mason is a must-add in all leagues. The 49ers’ upcoming schedule is a dream for running backs, giving Mason a legitimate shot at delivering top-10 fantasy RB numbers once again. Guerendo, meanwhile, is worth a look in deeper formats.
Other RB Options
- Tank Bigsby, Jacksonville Jaguars (32.5%): Bigsby split snaps with Travis Etienne Jr. against the Texans, and with QB Trevor Lawrence dealing with a concussion, the Jaguars may lean more on the run game.
- Jeremy McNichols, Washington Commanders (11.1%): With Austin Ekeler out, McNichols is a sneaky pickup, especially given Brian Robinson Jr.’s injury history.
- Sincere McCormick, Las Vegas Raiders (0.1%): McCormick has been the Raiders’ most effective runner, but the backfield remains murky.
- Braelon Allen, New York Jets (22.0%): With Breece Hall not at 100%, Allen could be a league-winning stash.
Next QB Up
Looking for a quarterback to carry you through the playoffs? Here are some intriguing options:
- Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears (37.0%): Williams has been on fire, scoring 20-plus fantasy points in two of his last three games. His dual-threat ability makes him a reliable QB2 with QB1 upside.
- Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers (43.1%): Wilson is coming off a season-high 26.8 fantasy points and has favorable matchups ahead.
- Drake Maye, New England Patriots (18.9%): Maye’s dual-threat ability makes him a solid QB2 option, especially in superflex leagues.
Next WR Up
Wide receivers can make or break your playoff run. Here are some names to consider:
- Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Tennessee Titans (19.9%): Westbrook-Ikhine has been consistent, scoring 12-plus fantasy points in five of his last six games.
- Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers (47.6%): Doubs is set to return and faces a Lions defense that struggles against WRs.
Next TE Up
Need help at tight end? Pat Freiermuth (41.9%) is heating up at the right time, with two straight games of double-digit fantasy points. He faces a Browns defense that’s been generous to tight ends, making him a solid option for Week 14.
Originally Written by: Eric Karabell
