T.J. Yeldon leads top fantasy NFL waiver wire pickups after Week 1

Jay Asser 23:06 10/09/2018
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  • Week 1 of the season is in the books, which means it’s the first time fantasy owners will flock to the waiver wire to snatch up those who stood out in the openers.

    Fortunately, injuries have yet to decimate the landscape, but there were still some players who suffered various knocks, which could clear the road for others to flourish.

    Here are five names to target this week if they’re on your league’s waiver wire.

    T.J. YELDON

    Leonard Fournette exited Week 1 with a hamstring injury, and although head coach Doug Marrone is optimistic he’ll be okay going forward, Yeldon would be a three-down option if the starting running back misses any time. Yeldon had 17 touches for 69 yards and a touchdown in the opener, and with how determined Jacksonville are to lean on the ground game, he could shoulder a significant workload.

    BRANDON MARSHALL

    Once a star receiver, Marshall has faded into obscurity in recent years, but he again holds fantasy value now, especially with Doug Baldwin nursing injuries to both knees. The Seattle Seahawks parted ways with Jimmy Graham in the offseason, which left a void for a big target like Marshall to fill as a red zone threat. He’s not going to post WR1 numbers again, but you could do worse with your third WR or flex spot.

    Marshall

    GERONIMO ALLISON

    Fantasy football isn’t rocket science. Sometimes, it’s as simple as wanting players in really good situations, which certainly applies to Geronimo Allison as a receiver in Aaron Rodgers’ offence. Davante Adams is the top target and Randall Cobb is still a reliable option, but there’s enough fantasy goodness to go around for Allison to soak up. His 69 yards and a touchdown in the opener could be just the start.

    PHILLIP LINDSAY

    Royce Freeman was touted as the top Denver Broncos running back to own all preseason, but fellow rookie Phillip Lindsay has come out of nowhere to earn touches. In Week 1, Freeman saw 29 snaps while Lindsay played 26, with Devontae Booker trailing both with 19. Booker was considered the preferred option on passing downs, so if Lindsay is taking over that role, he offers some upside, particularly in PPR leagues.

    Lindsay

    JONNU SMITH

    This is a bit of a deep cut, but if you don’t have a must-start tight end on your roster, Smith is worth taking a flyer on. Delanie Walker is done for the season after suffering a serious ankle injury in the opener, which opens the door for Smith to take on a significant role in the passing game. Marcus Mariota has leaned on Walker over the years, so the quick-footed Smith should have opportunities to work with. Buyers beware: Mariota also appears banged up.

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