Recap of NFL week 1 and potential waiver wire adds for fantasy football managers
The opening week of the NFL season is always an exciting time for fantasy football enthusiasts. It’s a time when we get our first real look at how teams are utilizing their players and how off-season moves and injuries affect fantasy rosters. Week one of the NFL season in 2023 was no exception, and it provided plenty of valuable insights for fantasy managers. In this article, we’ll recap some of the most noteworthy developments from week one and identify potential waiver wire pickups to help you finetune your fantasy roster for week two and beyond.
Running Back Reshuffling
One of the most prominent storylines from week one was the shift in running back usage for several NFL teams. Fantasy managers who invested in these players or managed to grab them off the waiver wire could have a significant edge going forward.
Tony Pollard (DAL): Tony Pollard stepped into the lead role for the Dallas Cowboys and dominated snaps. He played 32 of the possible 43 snaps in the first three quarters, showcasing his potential as a top-tier fantasy running back. Pollard’s performance and workload suggest that he could be a valuable asset for the foreseeable future.
Kenneth Gainwell (PHI): Gainwell emerged as the every-down back for the Philadelphia Eagles, relegating D’Andre Swift to a backup role. Gainwell’s dual-threat abilities were on display as he ran the ball 14 times for 54 yards and caught four passes for 20 yards. Fantasy managers should consider Gainwell as a top waiver wire target given his lead role in the Eagles’ backfield.
Kyren Williams (LAR): Despite Cam Akers starting for the Los Angeles Rams, Kyren Williams took the majority of the early-down work in week one. Williams’ performance, which included two touchdowns, indicates that he could be a great player moving forward. While backfield usage in Sean McVay’s offense can fluctuate, Williams is a compelling waiver wire option based on his week one performance.
Wide Receiver Breakouts
Week one also featured breakout performances by wide receivers who stepped up in the absence of key players. These emerging talents could be excellent additions to your fantasy roster.
Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell (LAR): With Cooper Kupp on injured reserve, Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell seized the opportunity to shine for the Los Angeles Rams. Both players gained 119 receiving yards, and their usage as every-down players bodes well for their fantasy prospects. Fantasy managers should prioritize adding Nacua and Atwell to their rosters, especially if Kupp’s absence continues.
Quentin Johnston (LAC): Despite being the fourth wide receiver on the depth chart for the Los Angeles Chargers, Quentin Johnston caught two of his three targets for nine yards. Johnston’s usage in 11 personnel could make him an intriguing waiver wire pickup, especially if he continues to see playing time in place of other Chargers receivers.
Tight End Dilemmas
The tight end position always presents challenges in fantasy football, and week one revealed some notable developments worth considering.
Jake Ferguson (DAL): Jake Ferguson’s seven targets might suggest a breakout performance, but closer inspection reveals that his usage wasn’t as high as expected. Peyton Hendershot shared snaps out of 11 personnel, affecting Ferguson’s playing time. Fantasy managers should monitor this situation closely before rushing to acquire Ferguson, as rookie Luke Schoonmaker could see increased playing time.
Darren Waller (NYG): Waller, who was limited by a hamstring injury, played significant snaps in the first half for the New York Giants. However, his usage declined in the third quarter as the Giants trailed by a significant margin. Waller remained Daniel Jones’ preferred target despite the injury. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on his status for Week 2, given his health is a concern.
Assessing Trends
Week one of the NFL season delivered a wealth of insights for fantasy managers. Whether it was running back reshuffling, wide receiver breakouts, or tight end dilemmas, there is plenty to consider when fine-tuning your fantasy roster for week two and beyond.
As you assess your team’s needs and potential pickups, keep a close eye on players like Kenneth Gainwell, Puka Nacua, Tutu Atwell, Quentin Johnston, and other emerging talents who could provide a competitive edge in your fantasy league. Stay vigilant with your waiver wire strategy, and don’t hesitate to make bold moves based on current performances and trends.
