As we enter the final stretch of the fantasy football season, maximizing your roster becomes increasingly critical. Whether you’re filling holes due to injuries, preparing for a playoff run or taking low-risk chances on emerging players, the waiver wire and free agency remain key resources.
For this edition of “In the Scope,” we are highlighting potential breakout players and reliable depth pieces to help you secure a competitive edge after the Week 13 waiver wire runs.
Rostership percentages courtesy of ESPN Points Per Reception (PPR) redraft fantasy football leagues as of Tuesday, Nov. 25.
- Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (WR, Tennessee Titans) | 7.5%
- Xavier Legette (WR, Carolina Panthers) | 36.3%
- Demario Douglas (WR, New England Patriots) | 29.2%
- Devaughn Vele (WR, Denver Broncos) | 1.7%
- Marquez Valdes-Scantling (WR, New Orleans Saints) | 15.5%
- Noah Brown (WR, Washington Commanders) | 10.5%
Antonio Gibson (RB, New England Patriots) | 17.5% Rostered
For managers willing to speculate on untapped potential, Antonio Gibson is a compelling option and is back “In the Scope” for the second time this season. Long known for his explosive athleticism, Gibson has been a frustrating player for fantasy football managers in recent seasons due to inconsistent usage. However, his recent performance suggests he could be on the verge of a larger role in New England’s backfield. Despite limited touches this season, Gibson has quietly been effective, averaging 4.3 Yards Per Carry (YPC) and nearly 10 Yards Per Reception (YPR). With the Patriots’ offense in dire need of dynamic playmakers, Gibson’s skill set offers something the more methodical Rhamondre Stevenson does not.
While trusting any New England running back comes with risk, Gibson’s versatility and efficiency make him an intriguing speculative add. He’s also displayed improvement in pass protection, which could earn him more playing time and lead to additional opportunities. Given his potential upside and low acquisition cost after the Week 13 waiver wire runs, Gibson is the kind of lottery ticket that could pay off big in the final stretch of the fantasy season.
Tyrod Taylor (QB, New York Jets) | 0.2% Rostered
With rumors swirling about the New York Jets’ future at quarterback, Tyrod Taylor is an under-the-radar stash for fantasy managers needing quarterback help. While it remains unclear whether Aaron Rodgers will be benched or even stay on the team, Taylor’s potential to step into the starting role makes him an appealing target. The Jets’ offense plays at a fast pace and ranks seventh in passing attempts per game, providing a favorable environment for any quarterback who gets the nod. Taylor would also benefit from the team’s strong pass protection (91% protection rate, third-highest in the league) and a talented receiving corps featuring Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams.
Taylor’s dual-threat ability also adds another layer of appeal, and in fantasy, rushing production can elevate quarterbacks from streamer status to reliable contributors. While he’s far from a guaranteed starter, adding him now could give you a valuable option later in deeper leagues or superflex formats.
Theo Johnson (TE, New York Giants) | 7.2% Rostered
Tight end can be a frustrating position to fill in fantasy football, but Theo Johnson’s recent surge in usage makes him a viable option, especially in tight end-premium leagues. Over the past three weeks, Johnson has averaged six targets per game, emerging as the Giants’ second-most targeted player behind Malik Nabers. His consistent involvement in the passing game has translated into top-10 tight end production during that span, making Johnson a sneaky play for managers needing a spot start or more depth at the position.
Johnson’s athletic profile is also worth noting; as a former Penn State standout, Johnson recorded a 9.9 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) at the NFL Combine, the highest in history for a tight end. This athleticism is now translating into on-field opportunities, as he ranks eighth among tight ends in routes run. He also saw a 20% target share with Tommy DeVito under center in Week 12.
With one of the easiest remaining schedules for tight ends, including the Cowboys in Week 13, Johnson could provide steady production in the weeks to come. Snag him off after the waiver wire runs for free while you can.
Check out all of our Week 13 fantasy football content: