No season-changers emerged this week, but we did finally see more of Matt Asiata with Teddy Bridgewater taking over the reigns for Minnesota. If this offense keeps moving, he could finally be a solid contributor in Adrian Peterson’s absence.
I’m going running back heavy in this edition with some options and stashes reaching a “must own” point this week.
Let’s get to the picks.
- Matt Asiata
- Jerick McKinnon
- Justin Forsett
- Isaiah Crowell
Matt Asiata can score. We found that out this week in a hat trick, but his real value is that he remains the most consistent back for the Vikings. He should retain the goal line role and get plenty of touches due to his pass-blocking ability, regardless of how talented McKinnon is. Asiata is worth 25% of your FAAB if you are RB-needy.
Jerick McKinnon does come in second on this list if you need a running back to stash for the long haul. He may not have another performance like his breakout in Week 4, but he’s worth betting on if the touches keep coming for him. He’s raw, which is why he doesn’t immediately threaten Asiata, but it’s clear the Vikings want to get him more involved. I’d put in a 15% bid on McKinnon.
Justin Forsett just won’t go away. The Ravens liked his hot hand in Week 4, and he played the role they needed on offense. I still like Lorenzo Taliaferro to get a larger chunk of this workload as the season progresses if Bernard Pierce doesn’t get back on the field and show us anything. Forsett is only worth 10% of your FAAB or more if he’s still available.
Isaiah Crowell continues to show his talent and nose for the end zone. It’s only a matter of time before the Browns give him more opportunities. It’ll be interesting to see what the Browns do this week if Tate returns. News broke over the bye that Crowell had moved ahead of West in working with the first stringers so all signs are pointing up for him.
If you’re looking at wide receivers this week, I like Jarius Wright as a “what the heck” stash after the relationship displayed between Wright and Bridgewater. I also like Allen Robinson as a stash with Cecil Shorts’ injury, and I think Marvin Jones should be picked up in advance of his debut for the Bengals. Cincinnati is rolling, and while the emergence could be slow, Jones gives them something they’re looking forward to taking advantage of on offense.
And if you are in the unfortunate position of starting Tom Brady, look at Eli Manning, Teddy Bridgewater, and Blake Bortles this week as possible replacements (in the case of Manning) or stashes (in the case of Bridgewater and Bortles).
For more waiver wire advice, do your reading at FantasyPros, Rotoworld, ESPN, and SBNations’ Keepers.
