Embark on another strategic journey with “In the Scope,” offering valuable fantasy football insights and analysis that go beyond the mainstream. As we approach the final quarter of the NFL season, it’s time to gear up for a championship push. However, as always, we’re doing it on a budget, targeting players after the initial waiver wire runs. Read on as we lock in our favorite Week 13 waiver wire leftovers.
Rostership percentages are based on ESPN Points Per Reception (PPR) redraft fantasy football leagues as of Tuesday, Nov. 28.
Check Your Waivers: Mainstream Fantasy Football Week 13 Waiver Wire Pickups
Before cracking into the deeper after-thoughts, let’s first highlight some mainstream Week 13 waiver wire targets. While likely added in most competitive 12-team leagues, there’s a chance these players might still be available after waivers run or for a $0 Free Agent Acquisition Budget (FAAB):
Quarterback
- Jordan Love (QB, Green Bay Packers) | 48.0%
Running Backs
- Keaton Mitchell (RB, Baltimore Ravens) | 43.6%
- Chuba Hubbard (RB, Carolina Panthers) | 48.6%
- Jeff Wilson Jr. (RB, Miami Dolphins) | 20.4%
- Ezekiel Elliott RB, New England Patriots) | 36.4%
Wide Receivers
- Josh Downs (WR, Indianapolis Colts) | 47.1%
- Jayden Reed (WR, Green Bay Packers) | 31.5%
- Romeo Doubs (WR, Green Bay Packers) | 41.1%
- Greg Dortch (WR, Arizona Cardinals) | 0.3%
- Khalil Shakir (WR, Buffalo Bills) | 7.6%
- Jalin Hyatt (WR, New York Giants) | 1.7%
Tight Ends
- Cade Otton (TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers) | 29.5%
- Pat Freiermuth (TE, Pittsburgh Steelers) | 41.9%
- Isaiah Likely (TE, Baltimore Ravens) | 31.8%
You can read more about some of these mainstream waiver wire targets in our weekly article by Matt Kelley.
In the Scope Targets: Top Fantasy Football Week 13 Free Agent Finds
Now, let’s shift our focus to the hidden gems that could impact your fantasy roster down the line. This week, we’re keying in on D/STs to add after the dust settles. These under-the-radar defensive units’ rosterships are still far too low for the upside they carry the rest of the way.
Indianapolis Colts (D/ST) | 15.8% Rostered
Upcoming Schedule: @ TEN, @ CIN, vs. PIT, @ ATL, vs. LVR
The Indianapolis Colts’ defense has been on a tear, posting three consecutive games with 12 or more fantasy points. Currently sitting at D/ST7 on a points-per-game basis, they’re averaging an impressive 8.5 fantasy points per game. The Colts’ defense ranks sixth in interceptions with 12 and is 11th in total turnovers with 18. They are also tied for sixth in sacks with 36.
While the secondary, led by defensive coordinator Gus Bradley, might not be elite, linebackers Zaire Franklin and E.J. Speed are making significant contributions. Their efforts, combined with the presence of defensive stalwarts DeForest Buckner and Kwity Paye, have made the Colts’ defense a force to be reckoned with. As they gear up to face the Titans, Bengals, Steelers, Falcons and Raiders in the coming weeks, the Colts’ defense could be a valuable asset to anchor your team during the playoff push.
Jacksonville Jaguars (D/ST) | 26.2% Rostered
Upcoming Schedule: vs. CIN, @ CLE, vs. BAL, @ TB, vs. CAR
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ defense may not be as heralded as some others, but they’ve proven themselves as a middle-of-the-road unit with a penchant for generating turnovers. Currently ranking among the top six in turnovers, they have a particularly enticing matchup in Week 17 – the fantasy football championship week – against Carolina.
The Panthers, who recently fired head coach Frank Reich along with other key offensive staff members, should present a favorable scenario for the Jaguars. With changes in coaching and potential disruptions to offensive strategy, Jacksonville’s defense could capitalize on the uncertainty. Outside linebacker Josh Allen is having a career year, already setting a personal record with 12 sacks, placing him fifth in the NFL. If you’re eyeing a defense that could provide a boost in the crucial fantasy football playoff weeks, consider adding the Jaguars’ D/ST to your roster.
Thanks for reading our “In the Scope” targets to add following the Week 13 waiver wire run. Check out more of our fantasy football and other written content here at In-Between Media, or head over to our YouTube channel to get your fix via video.
*Photo Credit: Robert Scheer/IndyStar – USA TODAY Sports*