Week 3 Upgrades, Downgrades, and Waiver Wire Wonders

Photo: USA Today Sports

The number in red next to a waiver wire gem indicated the percentage of a "blind bid" budget used in some leagues to award free agent pickups. If your league does not use blind bid waivers, consider the number a way to rank the quality of waiver wire additions.

Quarterback Upgrade

1. QB Kirk Cousins, MIN
2. QB Daniel Jones, NYG
3. QB Jordan Love, GB (waiver wire: 5-10%)
4. QB Desmond Ridder, ATL (waiver wire: 5-10%)
5. QB Geno Smith, SEA
6. QB C.J. Stroud, HOU (waiver wire: 3-5%)
7. QB Jared Goff, DET
8. QB Sam Howell, WAS (waiver wire: 3-5%)
9. QB Baker Mayfield, TB (waiver wire: 3-5%)
10. QB Matthew Stafford, LAR (waiver wire: 3-5%)
11. QB Russell Wilson, DEN (waiver wire: 3-5%)
12. QB Dak Prescott, DAL
13. QB Joshua Dobbs, ARI (waiver wire: 1%)
14. QB Gardner Minshew, IND (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex)

Quarterback Downgrade

1. QB Justin Fields, CHI
2. QB Mac Jones, NE (waiver wire: DROP )
3. QB Deshaun Watson, CLE (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER)

Running Back Upgrade

1. RB Jerome Ford, CLE (waiver wire: 25-50%)
2. RB Jaylen Warren, PIT (waiver wire: 15-30%)
3. RB Kyren Williams, LAR
4. RB James Cook, BUF
5. RB Brian Robinson Jr., WAS
6. RB James Conner, ARI
7. RB Zack Moss, IND (waiver wire: 10-20%)
8. RB Raheem Mostert, MIA
9. RB D'Andre Swift, PHI
10. RB Gus Edwards, BAL
11. RB Rachaad White, TB
12. RB Salvon Ahmed, MIA (waiver wire: 5-10%)
13. RB Matt Breida, NYG (waiver wire: 5-10%)
14. RB Jahmyr Gibbs, DET
15. RB Damien Harris, BUF (waiver wire: 1%)
16. RB Craig Reynolds, DET (waiver wire: 3-5%)
17. RB Ty Chandler, MIN (waiver wire: 1%)
18. RB Tony Jones Jr., NO (waiver wire: 1%)
19. RB Latavius Murray, BUF (waiver wire: 1%)
20. RB Pierre Strong Jr., CLE (waiver wire: 1%)

Running Back Downgrade

1. RB Nick Chubb, CLE (waiver wire: DROP)
2. RB Cam Akers, LAR (waiver wire: DROP)
3. RB Tank Bigsby, JAX (waiver wire: DROP)
4. RB Dalvin Cook, NYJ (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER)
5. RB Breece Hall, NYJ
6. RB Najee Harris, PIT
7. RB Alexander Mattison, MIN
8. RB Dameon Pierce, HOU
9. RB Saquon Barkley, NYG
10. RB Ezekiel Elliott, NE (waiver wire: DROP FOR 5-10% OR HIGHER)
11. RB Antonio Gibson, WAS (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER)
12. RB Josh Jacobs, LV
13. RB Rashaad Penny, PHI (waiver wire: DROP)
14. RB Khalil Herbert, CHI
15. RB David Montgomery, DET

Wide Receiver Upgrade

1. WR Tank Dell, HOU (waiver wire: 15-30%)
2. WR Josh Reynolds, DET (waiver wire: 15-30%)
3. WR Marvin Mims Jr., DEN (waiver wire: 12-25%)
4. WR Puka Nacua, LAR
5. WR Skyy Moore, KC (waiver wire: 10-20%)
6. WR Kadarius Toney, KC (waiver wire: 10-20%)
7. WR Tutu Atwell, LAR (waiver wire: 7-15%)
8. WR Nico Collins, HOU
9. WR Gabe Davis, BUF
10. WR Mike Evans, TB
11. WR Christian Kirk, JAX
12. WR Adam Thielen, CAR (waiver wire: 5-10%)
13. WR Marquise Brown, ARI
14. WR Amari Cooper, CLE
15. WR Jalin Hyatt, NYG (waiver wire: 3-5%)
16. WR Drake London, ATL
17. WR George Pickens, PIT
18. WR Nelson Agholor, BAL (waiver wire: 1%)
19. WR DJ Moore, CHI
20. WR Jayden Reed, GB (waiver wire: 1%)

Wide Receiver Downgrade

1. WR Ja'Marr Chase, CIN
2. WR Rashod Bateman, BAL (waiver wire: DROP FOR 12-25% OR HIGHER)
3. WR Michael Gallup, DAL (waiver wire: DROP)
4. WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN
5. WR Calvin Ridley, JAX
6. WR Courtland Sutton, DEN (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER)
7. WR Odell Beckham Jr., BAL (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER)
8. WR Kendrick Bourne, NE (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER)
9. WR Zay Jones, JAX
10. WR Cooper Kupp, LAR
11. WR Darnell Mooney, CHI (waiver wire: DROP)

Tight End Upgrade

1. TE Hunter Henry, NE (waiver wire: 20-40%)
2. TE Zach Ertz, ARI (waiver wire: 12-25%)
3. TE Taysom Hill, NO (waiver wire: 5-10%)
4. TE Evan Engram, JAX
5. TE Cade Otton, TB (waiver wire: 3-5%)
6. TE Darren Waller, NYG

Tight End Downgrade

1. TE Kyle Pitts, ATL (waiver wire: HOLD)
2. TE Irv Smith Jr., CIN (waiver wire: DROP)
3. TE Pat Freiermuth, PIT (waiver wire: DROP)
4. TE Tyler Higbee, LAR (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER)
5. TE Adam Trautman, DEN (waiver wire: DROP)
6. TE Luke Musgrave, GB (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER)

Quarterback Upgrade

QB Kirk Cousins, MIN - Kirk Cousins played well for the second straight week, and limited turnovers this time. The Vikings running game isn't very good, and their defense isn't a strong suit, so Cousins is going to have a lot of opportunities to rack up fantasy points. He's a high floor QB1 against the Chargers this week.

QB Joshua Dobbs, ARI - (waiver wire: 1%) - Dobbs showed that Week 1 wasn't a fluke, and even notched his first rushing touchdown of his career. He is reviving the value of the main pieces in the Arizona offense, although we probably should note that the Giants and Commanders defenses aren't exactly top notch. The Cowboys, up this week, are, so Dobbs is on our benches, even in 2QB/Superflex, but he could have matchup QB2/Superflex and emergency play in deep 1QB league value

QB Jared Goff, DET - Goff had one major gaffe that might have cost his team the game in the end, but with David Montgomery banged up, this is going to be a pass-first offense, and it's arguable that the Lions were only in the game with Seattle because of Goff's execution in Ben Johnson's outstanding offense. Consider Goff a high floor QB1 against the Falcons this week.

QB Sam Howell, WAS - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Howell had a strong passing day against a Broncos defense that appears to be very beatable through the air. He is leveraging his strong wide receiver trio and a defense that probably won't be shutting down opponents into low QB1 value through two weeks. We'll see if he can keep it up next week against the Bills defense that toyed with Jimmy Garoppolo in Week 2

QB Daniel Jones, NYG - Two quarters into Week 2, Jones and the Giants had been outscored 60-0. The offense roared back for 31 points in the second half, and Jones rewarded fantasy teams that trusted him despite his dud in Week 1. Week 3 brings the 49ers and a short turnaround for a Thursday game, but Jones upside is clear, and compelling enough to keep him in the starting fantasy quarterback discussion with Saquon Barkley likely sidelined.

QB Jordan Love, GB - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Love had his second straight three touchdown game on limited attempts. This time it came against the Falcons, who certainly have a better defense than the Packers Week 1 opponent Chicago, and it came without Christian Watson (again) and without Aaron Jones, who had two of the biggest gains in the passing game in Week 1. Love faces a stout New Orleans defense in Week 3, but he is at least good bye/injury depth, and when he has all of his weapons, he could be even more valuable, especially in Weeks 4-5 against Detroit and Las Vegas.

QB Baker Mayfield, TB - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Mayfield is doing much better as a plucky underdog than he did as a #1 overall pick franchise savior. His chemistry with Mike Evans continues to blossom, and he'll face a banged up Eagles pass defense next week. Mayfield might end up being a decent bye/injury depth quarterback after all, and he has been a pleasant surprise for 2QB/Superflex teams that drafted him late.

QB Gardner Minshew, IND - (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex) - Minshew was masterful in relief of Anthony Richardson after the #4 overall pick left with a concussion. He is clearly in command of Shane Steichen's offense, although we should also take away that the Texans pass defense is one to target when we set our lineups (Trevor Lawrence gets them in a bounceback game this week). If Richardson can't go, Minshew could have spot start value in 2QB/Superflex leagues against the Ravens in Week 3.

QB Dak Prescott, DAL - Prescott looked sharp against a Jets defense that stifled Josh Allen in Week 1, and he has the hookup with CeeDee Lamb in firing on all cylinders. He barely threw downfield when he wasn't targeting Lamb and the Cowboys defense isn't going to give him shootout game scripts, but Prescott showed he is probably worth starting against the Cardinals defense that just allowed Daniel Jones to bring the Giants offense back from the brink.

QB Desmond Ridder, ATL - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Ridder had a rough start, but rallied his team for a big second half to help the Falcons move to 2-0. He added value as a runner, including a touchdown, and a more competitive game indeed pushed up his pass attempts and passing production. He's a matchup QB1 against the vulnerable Lions pass defense, and Ridder should be carried as bye/injury depth, but know that he is very matchup sensitive.

QB Geno Smith, SEA - Smith bounced back in a big way even though he didn't have his starting tackles. The Lions pass defense remains one to target when we set our lineups, and Smith is back in starting fantasy quarterback consideration next week against Carolina.

QB Matthew Stafford, LAR - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Stafford had his second straight solid week, this time against the vaunted 49ers defense. He is going to be the engine of the offense, and he appears to have a strong grasp on how to use Sean McVay's play designs to move the ball consistently. He's only bye/injury depth in 1QB league, but Stafford has the makings of a solid QB2/Superflex at a very cheap price with Cooper Kupp still possibly coming back sooner than later.

QB C.J. Stroud, HOU - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Stroud was down four offensive line starters, but still lit up the score sheet as the Texans poor pass defense is probably going to get him in very favorable game scripts for fantasy football. The Jaguars defense was strong against the Chiefs, so he's not an automatic start in 2QB/Superflex in Week 3, but it appears the rookie will have value in that format, and might be productive enough to be worth carrying as bye/injury depth, although we need to monitor the sore throwing shoulder that made him questionable in Week 2.

QB Russell Wilson, DEN - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Wilson's big game was partially due to a successful hail mary, two deep balls to a rookie receiver Sean Payton is still reluctant to use, and an uncharacteristic amount of running, but the demonstrated ceiling is still there. The Broncos want to go run heavy, but they might not have the luxury of doing that in Week 3 against Miami, so Wilson is worth a look if you were relying on Joe Burrow to be your starter.

Quarterback Downgrade

QB Justin Fields, CHI - It was supposed to be better in Week 2 against the Bucs, but save for a strong opening drive, Fields still looked hesitant and ineffective as a passer, and the Bears for some reason won't let him run by design. With the ascending Chiefs defense up next, Fields is not a clear start for Week 3.

QB Mac Jones, NE - (waiver wire: DROP ) - Jones got DeVante Parker back in Week 2, but still came back to earth against the Dolphins defense. With the Jets, Cowboys, and Saints up the next three weeks, he can be dropped in 1QB leagues with the chance that he could get back to bye/injury depth value later in the season.

QB Deshaun Watson, CLE - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER) - Watson just doesn't look like the quarterback he was before coming to the Browns. Nick Chubb's injury should put more of the offense on him, but Chubb's ability to help the team have more scoring drives is a big loss for Watson and will probably make opposing defenses job easier. Watson isn't a fantasy QB1 heading into a matchup with the Titans, and he's not an essential hold.

Running Back Upgrade

RB Salvon Ahmed, MIA - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Ahmed isn't going to threaten Raheem Mostert's starting job, but he is the next man up behind Mostert and his long injury history, and he looked explosive on his three receptions on Sunday night. Consider Ahmed an injury upside hold with extra speculative value because of the quality of his team's running game and fragility of the starter ahead of him.

RB Matt Breida, NYG - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - It doesn't sound like Saquon Barkley's ankle injury is serious, but Breida should at least get to start against his old 49ers team on Thursday, making him a what the heck flex play, and ankle injuries can recur, so even if Barkley is back in Week 4, Breida will retain speculative value as long as he shows he should still be the primary backup ahead of Gary Brightwell and Eric Gray.

RB Ty Chandler, MIN - (waiver wire: 1%) - Chandler hasn't exactly been impressive backing up Alexander Mattison, but it is possible that the team will use him more going forward simply because Mattison and the running game is stuck in neutral. The Chargers run defense is up next.

RB James Conner, ARI - Conner ran with an edge against a Giants defense that didn't wake up until the second half. The Cardinals are better than expected in many ways, including at quarterback, but that could be put on hold this week against the Cowboys. Conner's value is trending up, but he might be benchable this week if you are strong at running back because of the matchup.

RB James Cook, BUF - Cook posted huge numbers against the woeful Raiders defense and that was without the benefit of goal to go carries, as Damien Harris and Latavius Murray each notched a rushing score in that role. Cook is a strong RB2 who could get to RB1 levels if the Bills start to use him more in goal line sets.

RB Gus Edwards, BAL - Edwards wasn't on the field as much as Justice Hill and he didn't touch the ball as often, but he was the better runner and he converted at the goal line to post a better fantasy line. He's just a what the heck flex against the stout Colts run defense, but it looks like he was the better pickup of the two Ravens backs, with hopes that Melvin Gordon doesn't turn this into a three-headed backfield.

RB Jerome Ford, CLE - (waiver wire: 25-50%) - Don't go overboard chasing Ford, even if you just lost Nick Chubb. The Browns are sure to add a running back, maybe Kareem Hunt, and while Ford looked good on his long run, he has been mostly inefficient as a runner this season.

RB Jahmyr Gibbs, DET - Gibbs didn't break out in Week 2 even though there was talk of him getting more touches, but David Montgomery did go down with a quad injury and will miss multiple weeks, so the rookie is a must start against the Falcons this week.

RB Damien Harris, BUF - (waiver wire: 1%) - It appears that the Bills are going to split the workload behind James Cook, including goal line opportunities, so Harris has limited upside if Cook goes down, but his usage in goal-to-go situations means he is also worth carrying as emergency depth once the bye week gauntlet gets here.

RB Tony Jones Jr., NO - (waiver wire: 1%) - Jones went from the practice squad to the end zone (two times) with Jamaal Williams leaving with a hamstring injury. Williams probably won't be able to go next week vs. the Packers, but rookie Kendre Miller could be back, the Saints could (and should) use Taysom Hill more in the backfield, and Alvin Kamara returns in Week 4.

RB Zack Moss, IND - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - It's possible that Moss's big Week 2 was simply another sign that we should play running backs against the Texans after they gave up three running back scores in Week 1, but Moss certainly looked better than he has at any point earlier in his career, and he'll get at least two more starts, with the Ravens up next. Moss could hit for fantasy if Jonathan Taylor gets dealt, but there's no buzz about that right now.

RB Raheem Mostert, MIA - Mostert scored twice and took advantage of a Patriots defense that was overplaying the deep pass to Tyreek Hill. He should remain in lineups as a strong RB2 play against the reeling Broncos.

RB Latavius Murray, BUF - (waiver wire: 1%) - It appears that the Bills are going to split the workload behind James Cook, including goal line opportunities, so Murray has limited upside if Cook goes down, but his usage in goal-to-go situations means he is also worth carrying as emergency depth once the bye week gauntlet gets here.

RB Craig Reynolds, DET - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Reynolds is the third string back for the Lions, but he's the backup to David Montgomery on inside running plays, so he could get a good workload against the Falcons, including goal line carries. Zonovan Knight should also get a call-up from the practice squad, so it's possible that Knight pushes Reynolds and ruins his speculative value.

RB Brian Robinson Jr., WAS - Robinson's grip on the Commanders backfield got even tighter in Week 2, when he scored twice and added 42 yards on two receptions in the big comeback win at Denver. He's an everyweek RB2 start with a tough matchup against the Bills up this week.

RB Pierre Strong Jr., CLE - (waiver wire: 1%) - The Browns could give the speedy Strong a longer look next week with Nick Chubb on the shelf for the season. He'll likely have a new teammate in the backfield soon, so Strong is only a deep league pickup.

RB D'Andre Swift, PHI - Necessity is the mother of running back value. The Eagles weren't eager to use Swift in Week 1, but they had to in Week 2 and he was able to run free against a Vikings defense that was pushed back consistently by the Philadelphia offensive line. We'll see about Kenneth Gainwell's status for Week 3 with a long week of rest to heal his rib injury, but Swift will be at least a what the heck flex against Tampa even if Gainwell is back.

RB Jaylen Warren, PIT - (waiver wire: 15-30%) - The Steelers are going to be stubborn about splitting the backfield, and the offense isn't going to create many fantasy overachievers, but Warren continues to have the look of a player that deserves more work, and he's getting more valuable touches in the passing game.

RB Rachaad White, TB - White ran better in Week 2, he was more involved in the passing game, and the team trusted him with a third and goal carry from the five that he converted. Baker Mayfield performing better than expected could be a big part of White hitting as a fantasy pick this year. The Eagles sometimes tough defense is up next.

RB Kyren Williams, LAR - Williams got a big theoretical value bump when Cam Akers was inactive, possibly ahead of a trade, and he got a big real value bump when he scored twice and functioned well as the lead back in a much better than advertised Rams offense. Consider Williams an every week RB2 start heading into a matchup with Cincinnati.

Running Back Downgrade

RB Cam Akers, LAR - (waiver wire: DROP) - You have to hope that Akers gets traded this week, as it appears that his relationship with the Rams has gone sour after he was declared inactive this week. It's sad because if he had been the lead back as expected, he would have been a big hit in a better than expected Rams offense. When and if he does get dealt, Akers could be eased into the mix, so it's probably best to drop him and come back to him only if he gets dealt to a good situation.

RB Saquon Barkley, NYG - Barkley was having a great game until he left late with an ankle injury. He's probably out for Week 3, but there's hope that injury isn't serious and he could be back soon.

RB Tank Bigsby, JAX - (waiver wire: DROP) - Bigsby didn't touch the ball in Week 2 after a tough Week 1 and it's possible that D'Ernest Johnson would overtake him as the backup if Travis Etienne goes down. There are a lot of players worth dropping Bigsby for after a disappointing open to the season.

RB Nick Chubb, CLE - (waiver wire: DROP) - UGGGGGH. Chubb, one of the most fun players to watch and talents that would have been at home in any era of the NFL, went down with a catastrophic knee injury in Week 2.

RB Dalvin Cook, NYJ - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER) - Cook is just an injury upside backup for fantasy purposes at this point. He's also in one of the worst offenses in the league and while the running back he shares with is coming off of an ACL tear, he should actually be rounding into form as the year goes on. Don't hold onto to Cook too tightly in the waiver wire run this week.

RB Ezekiel Elliott, NE - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 5-10% OR HIGHER) - The Patriots backed off of Elliott in usage and he isn't looking like a player that could do much with a big workload in the even that Rhamondre Stevenson goes down. He's not an essential hold.

RB Antonio Gibson, WAS - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER) - Gibson was still on the field a lot and flashed his speed and playmaking ability on a long catch and run, but the Commanders aren't trusting him to get many touches after his Week 1 fumble. He's not an essential hold in short bench leagues.

RB Breece Hall, NYJ - The Jets offense is flatlining again with Zach Wilson at the helm, and the team isn't giving Hall a chance to defibrillate it. He's frustrated, just like his fantasy teams. Consider Hall a what the heck flex with the hopes that the Jets will take their best running back off of his pitch count.

RB Najee Harris, PIT - Harris continues to look sluggish and inferior to Jaylen Warren as an option in the backfield. The Steelers offense isn't exactly stellar to boot. The team will give their 2021 first round pick enough opportunity to be a what the heck flex, but that's all he is.

RB Khalil Herbert, CHI - D'Onta Foreman being declared inactive isn't necessarily a good thing for Herbert, as rookie Roschon Johnson is closing on Herbert. This offense isn't good enough to support a consistent start in an RBBC anyway, so Herbert isn't an essential hold with the tough Chiefs defense up next.

RB Josh Jacobs, LV - Jacobs is still dominating backfield touches as expected, and at least he got five receptions in Week 2 to salvage something from his fantasy day, but the Raiders offense is looking like one of the worst in the league, and not able to support RB1 level value, even in one of the few true bellcows left in the league. We'll hope for the best with Jacobs in our lineups as an RB2 against the Steelers in Week 3.

RB Alexander Mattison, MIN - It's looking like the decision to hand the backfield to Mattison isn't working out for the Vikings or fantasy players who drafted him. The Vikings running game can't get any traction and while Ty Chandler hasn't looked much better, it's clear that Mattison's days as the clear lead back are numbered if he doesn't improve soon. He's only a flex play against the Chargers this week.

RB David Montgomery, DET - Montgomery is day-to-day with a thigh bruise. He's on the doubtful side of questionable for Week 3, but shouldn't miss more than a week or two at most.

RB Rashaad Penny, PHI - (waiver wire: DROP) - Penny failed to assert himself with Kenneth Gainwell on the sidelines for Week 2. He could show up later in the season if injuries thin the Eagles backfield and the Eagles running game is strong, but for now, Penny just isn't worth a hold over players with more momentum.

RB Dameon Pierce, HOU - Pierce at least didn't share the backfield touches with Devin Singletary as much as he did last week, but he was still barely involved in the passing game, and the Texans offensive line injuries and poor defense is keeping them from getting into good game scripts for their lead back. He's a what the heck flex at Jacksonville this week.

Wide Receiver Upgrade

WR Nelson Agholor, BAL - (waiver wire: 1%) - It sounds like Odell Beckham could play this week against the Colts after leaving Week 2 with an ankle injury, but Agholor's effectiveness and chemistry with Lamar Jackson was undeniable. He's a deep league pickup and could start to get snaps even if Beckham and Rashod Bateman stay healthy.

WR Tutu Atwell, LAR - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Atwell posted his second strong game in a row to start the season, this time against a tougher 49ers defense. He should be in WR3/Flex consideration as long as Matthew Stafford stays healthy and Cooper Kupp is on the sidelines.

WR Marquise Brown, ARI - The Cardinals offense improved in Week 2, and Brown looked like a viable fantasy play in the process. The Cowboys are up next and will make life hard for Joshua Dobbs and company, but it looks like Brown can at least be a matchup WR3/Flex, and maybe more if Dobbs continues to exceed the very low expectations we had for him entering the season.

WR Nico Collins, HOU - If the Texans defense continues to put them behind big, Collins could be one of the biggest hits in fantasy leagues this year. He and CJ Stroud are on the same page, and Stroud is willing to take chances throwing downfield to his #1 outside receiver. The Jaguars defense had a solid day containing Patrick Mahomes, but Collins is still an upside WR3/Flex play against them this week.

WR Amari Cooper, CLE - Cooper played through his groin injury and had a much better Week 2 than his Week 1 even though his quarterback is still mediocre. The loss of Nick Chubb could up the passing volume and help Cooper further.

WR Gabe Davis, BUF - Davis was the only real downfield threat for the Bills pass offense, and he also caught a touchdown in a crowd to help build trust from Josh Allen. Consider him a strong WR3/Flex play with upside against the Commanders this week.

WR Tank Dell, HOU - (waiver wire: 15-30%) - The Texans said they were going to get Dell more involved in Week 2, and he obliged with a strong PPR stat line, including a touchdown. He has a good rapport with fellow rookie CJ Stroud, and it looks like the Texans are going to be passing a lot with a poor defense and running game this year.

WR Mike Evans, TB - Evans had a huge Week 2 against a woeful Bears defense. He has terrific chemistry with Baker Mayfield and has been one of the fantasy steals of the draft through two weeks. The Eagles pass defense was run ragged by the Vikings last week, so Evans should have a strong Week 3.

WR Jalin Hyatt, NYG - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Hyatt looked like a natural high-pointing a deep ball and should get more opportunities in the deep passing game (where Daniel Jones is strong) going forward. He's only a bench stash for now, but what Hyatt brought to the field in Week 2 screams out for more usage going forward.

WR Christian Kirk, JAX - The Jaguars told us Kirk would be more involved in Week 2, and he was to the tune of a huge 11-110 stat line, albeit in a losing effort on a long afternoon for his offense. Kirk will be a boom/bust WR3/Flex, but he showed us the boom is still loud and he should definitely be in lineups against the Texans this week.

WR Drake London, ATL - Just as we hoped, a more competitive game got London more targets, and he's good enough to turn them into lineup worthy fantasy production. He is a must start against the struggling Lions defense.

WR Marvin Mims Jr., DEN - (waiver wire: 12-25%) - Mims was barely on the field for the Broncos, and he still caught two balls for over 100 yards and a score. One would think that Sean Payton would get his second round more involved going forward with the Broncos season slipping away following a second half collapse against Washington. He's just a bench stash heading into Week 3 against Miami, but if Mims goes off again, it's time to put him in the lineup.

WR DJ Moore, CHI - While this was a bounceback week of sorts for Moore, it mostly came on two long receptions in the first drive, and Justin Fields performance as a passer cast doubt on his ability to make Moore a consistent fantasy producer. Even though Moore's value is up, it could be a small sell high window in redraft.

WR Skyy Moore, KC - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - Moore showed he is at least worth a bench hold with a touchdown and a long game-clinching play to help build trust with Patrick Mahomes. This pass offense is going to spread the ball around, but Moore can improve and get into fantasy relevance. He's a fine what the heck flex against the Bears this week.

WR Puka Nacua, LAR - Week 1 wasn't a mirage, as Nacua racked up an inordinate (well actually 15) number of catches against the 49ers. He should continue to be startable even after Cooper Kupp returns, whenever that is. Nacua isn't going to our benches unless he posts back-to-back duds.

WR George Pickens, PIT - Allen Robinson, Calvin Austin, and Pat Freiermuth did very little in the Steelers Diontae Johnson-less passing game, but Pickens came through with a long score to account for the only offensive touchdown of the night for Pittsburgh. He's worth a WR3/Flex start against the Raiders and could overcome this poor offense to be a hit in fantasy.

WR Jayden Reed, GB - (waiver wire: 1%) - Reed scored twice and certainly encouraged the Packers to keep him in the pass offense even after Christian Watson is healthy. Last week, it was Romeo Doubs turn, so this could be a tough pass offense to project week-to-week, but Reed has enough momentum to consider as a bench stash in deep leagues.

WR Josh Reynolds, DET - (waiver wire: 15-30%) - Reynolds value surge could have an expiration date of Week 7 when Jameson Williams returns, but for now he looks like a solid WR3/Flex play now that he has overtaken Marvin Jones to be the top outside receiver in a very good pass offense.

WR Adam Thielen, CAR - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Thielen bounced back as the primary short range target for Bryce Young and he even added a garbage time score. He's only a low ceiling WR3/Flex in PPR leagues at best, but with the struggling Seattle secondary up next, he might be worth a spot start.

WR Kadarius Toney, KC - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - Toney avoided drops in Week 2 and on one of his touches made multiple tacklers miss to show just why the Chiefs have a fascination with him. Between his talent and Patrick Mahomes throwing the ball, Toney is worth a hold to see how things develop and he's an upside what the heck flex against the Bears this week.

Wide Receiver Downgrade

WR Rashod Bateman, BAL - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 12-25% OR HIGHER) - Bateman wasn't a big presence on the stat sheet for the second straight week even though Odell Beckham left with an ankle injury. It appears that Nelson Agholor is more than capable as a #4 receiver, and the Ravens passing target tree is probably too wide for Bateman to hit this year in fantasy, especially if he's not quite 100% coming off of foot surgery. He's not an essential hold

WR Odell Beckham Jr., BAL - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER) - Beckham suffered an ankle injury in Week 2 and left the game. He might be ok for Week 3, but it's possible that he could have his snaps scales back in an attempt to keep him healthy all season, and Nelson Agholor was very good in relief of Beckham. It's getting more difficult to see how Beckham can hit as a fantasy pick this year.

WR Kendrick Bourne, NE - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER) - One week after the Patriots passing game was robust and Bourne was a clear #1, the Patriots passing game wasn't as productive, and Bourne blended in a wide target tree that included the return of DeVante Parker. He's not an essential hold, but could be worth a what the heck flex start against the Jets pass funnel defense.

WR Ja'Marr Chase, CIN - Chase had a potential touchdown broken up and just isn't that effective in the short passing game the Bengals are limited to with an injured Joe Burrow at the helm. Chase isn't going to come near delivering on his value until Burrow is healthy, which might not be until 2024.

WR Michael Gallup, DAL - (waiver wire: DROP) - The Cowboys pass offense is basically CeeDee Lamb, Tony Pollard, and the tight ends around the end zone. Gallup did very little against the Jets even though Brandin Cooks was out, so he's droppable heading into Week 3 even though he is better than some starting wide receivers out there.

WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN - Jeudy's return wasn't momentous for his fantasy value. He was being drafted as a clear #1 receiver, but it appears this is going to be a run-heavy offense with a lot of role players in the passing game. Jeudy is at best a WR3/Flex against Miami and might not even be more than bye/injury depth unless he posts a good game soon.

WR Zay Jones, JAX - Jones put up a goose egg in Week 2 on six targets, but had two almost touchdowns on high degree of difficult catches near the boundary. He also suffered a knee injury and will have further testing to determine his condition. He's not a sure thing to play in Week 3.

WR Cooper Kupp, LAR - Kupp isn't playing, but he's still losing value, as Puka Nacua looks like he is here to stay and expected to retain a big role in the pass offense even after Kupp returns.

WR Darnell Mooney, CHI - (waiver wire: DROP) - Mooney has a nagging knee issue that made him leave the Week 2 game. Justin Fields isn't improving as a passer, and the offensive design isn't giving him any help. A banged up #2 receiver in one of the worst pass offenses in the league isn't worth carrying no matter how talented he is.

WR Calvin Ridley, JAX - One week after Ridley looked unstoppable, he was very stoppable against a strong Chiefs defense. He still has WR1 upside in any given week and should be a great play against the Texans next week, but Ridley doesn't look like one of the best picks in fantasy drafts like he did after Week 1.

WR Courtland Sutton, DEN - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 15-30% OR HIGHER) - Sutton was quiet in the loss to the Commanders, and now he's just one of many role players in a low volume passing game. He's not an essential hold.

Tight End Upgrade

TE Evan Engram, JAX - Christian Kirk, Zay Jones, and Calvin Ridley have all been up and down in two games, but Engram has been consistent in his usage and production and should be reliable going forward. He could even get a value bump if Zay Jones has to miss time with a knee injury.

TE Zach Ertz, ARI - (waiver wire: 12-25%) - Ertz continues to be a frequent target for Joshua Dobbs and doesn't seem to be affected by his 2022 ACL tear. He's a solid TE1 in PPR leagues, although this could be a rough week vs. Dallas.

TE Hunter Henry, NE - (waiver wire: 20-40%) - Henry has been the one constant in the passing game through two losses for the Patriots. He has scored in both games and has at least five catches and 50 yards in both games. He is on track to be one of the most valuable tight ends in fantasy football if he can keep this up. Next week he faces the Jets defense that just gave up two scores to Cowboys tight ends.

TE Taysom Hill, NO - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - At the very least Hill should get more work in a depleted Saints backfield next week, but he looks so good as a runner, even as a tailback, that the Saints should consider keeping him in the weekly game plan. He's a sneaky tight end start in Week 3 and could retain more value than we expect.

TE Cade Otton, TB - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Otton, like the rest of the Bucs offense, is benefiting from Baker Mayfield being better than expected. He'll face the Eagles defense that just allowed two scores to T.J. Hockenson, so he's a reasonable Week 3 spot start off of the waiver wire and then we'll see where his season is headed based on this week's outcome.

TE Darren Waller, NYG - Waller shook off worries about his hamstring issue and the Giants offense shook off a scoreless six quarters to start the year in a big second half vs. the Cardinals. Waller is looking like one of the few tight end picks who can deliver expected value on investment heading into a Thursday night game against the 49ers.

Tight End Downgrade

TE Pat Freiermuth, PIT - (waiver wire: DROP) - Hopes of Freiermuth coming into his own in an improved Steelers offense have been dashed quickly, even with Diontae Johnson out to free up some targets. He's not an essential hold.

TE Tyler Higbee, LAR - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER) - Higbee was a solid PPR fantasy tight end last week when the Rams offense was struggling, but now that it is doing well with the strong play from guys like Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell, Higbee is a bit player in the passing game. He's not an essential hold, but did at least get seven targets vs. the 49ers.

TE Luke Musgrave, GB - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 10-20% OR HIGHER) - Musgrave looks like he will be a fantasy relevant tight end, but maybe not right away in this pass offense. Even with the two best offensive weapons sidelined, he wasn't a big fantasy factor in Week 2, so Musgrave isn't an essential hold with the Packers target tree likely to get wider in upcoming weeks with the return of Aaron Jones and Christian Watson.

TE Kyle Pitts, ATL - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Pitts drew a pass interference penalty in the end zone, but that's little consolation to fantasy players who saw him get outscored by Jonnu Smith in the latest laugh the fantasy football gods are having at Pitts fantasy teams expense. The Lions couldn't cover Seahawks tight ends in Week 2, so if you can stomach it, give Pitts another shot this week.

TE Irv Smith Jr., CIN - (waiver wire: DROP) - The Bengals have been limited to a short passing game, but that hasn't meant their new tight end has been central in the action. Smith has been a non-factor and with the Bengals offensive struggles, he's not worth carrying.

TE Adam Trautman, DEN - (waiver wire: DROP) - One week after a solid fantasy game to begin the season, Trautman disappointed in Week 2 even though Greg Dulcich going on IR clarified the tight end depth chart. He didn't catch his only target, so you can drop Trautman.