Week 8 was a fantasy feast and gave us a peek at what a few young receivers could do if given more opportunity. If you need an immediate play, check back on previous waiver wires for suggested pickups.
But if you’re looking for a difference maker down the stretch, one of these four might be the answer.
Martavis Bryant had a bit of a coming out party against the Colts in Week 8 as he scored twice, but he’d already found the end zone in his first game action in Week 7. Bryant seems to be on his way to supplanting Markus Wheaton to play beside Antonio Brown in this recently explosive Steelers’ offense.
Zach Mettenberger targeted Justin Hunter 10 times in his first start and showed quite the rapport with the big receiver. Hunter could emerge down the stretch if Mettenberger establishes himself in the Titans’ offense. I’d hang onto Hunter in all formats to see how his usage might change after the bye. He’s already been elevated to a full-time starter. Now we just need consistent quarterback play to get Hunter the ball.
Davante Adams is locked in as the No. 3 target in the Green Bay offense. On a bye this week, he could expand his consistent role down the stretch as the Packers regain their explosive form.
An injured Reggie Wayne was replaced by Hakeem Nicks in Week 8, but he soon gave way to the rookie Donte Moncrief. It’s hard to trust Moncrief considering the circumstances that got him on the field in this role, but his playmaking ability will not waste away on the bench if Wayne were to miss any additional time. Those who have the room to stash Moncrief should add him now and see if his role expands later in the season as Wayne recovers from injuries or needs veteran rest.
Good luck in Week 9.