Here are five players who you can pluck off your bench or waiver wire and insert into your starting lineup for this weekend’s games.
DUKE JOHNSON
Even before Carlos Hyde was traded away this week, Johnson was a worthy flex play thanks to his role in the passing game. But with Hyde gone, Johnson’s workload could be even bigger if he gets more chances on early downs.
He’ll face a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defence that is allowing the seventh-most fantasy points to running backs.
TAYLOR GABRIEL
Gabriel’s past two performances should be reason enough to get him in your lineup this week. He was the the model of efficiency in those games, hauling in all 12 of his targets for 214 yards and two touchdowns, and on Sunday he should have a positive game-script to work with against New England as the Bears are expected to be chasing points.
ELI MANNING
Whether it’s in real life or fantasy, Manning doesn’t inspire confidence. But leave your hesitations at the door this week with the Atlanta Falcons’ leaky defence on the menu.
Atlanta are giving up the second-most fantasy points to QBs this season, and have been particularly vulnerable against pass-catching backs. Good luck stopping Saquon Barkley.
Frustrating that #Falcons have made 4-year concession to basically not challenge RB receptions. Rely on LB/S speed & takedown ability. But you lose Deion Jones & Keanu Neal -- reasons for this strat in first place -- and make no adjustments. Don't get it. Saquon gon' eat on MNF.
— Evan Silva (@evansilva) October 18, 2018
C.J. UZOMAH
Injuries have paved the way for Uzomah to be fantasy relevant after starting tight end Tyler Eifert broke his ankle and back-up Tyler Kroft suffered a broken bone in his foot.
Whether you need a short-term streamer or a tight end with staying power for the rest of the season, Uzomah is an intriguing option, especially against the Kansas City Chiefs defence this week.
FRANK GORE
An ageless wonder, Gore continues to produce at the age of 35. The veteran running back has led the Miami Dolphins in carries each of the past four games and is coming off his best outing of the season, in which he tallied 101 rushing yards on 15 attempts.
Start Gore with confidence as a flex or low-end RB2.