Week 17 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire: Must-Have Players for Your Championship Showdown!

As fantasy football championships approach, the stakes are higher than ever! While some leagues might stretch into a potentially stressful Week 18, we’re here to help you make the right calls for that all-important final game. If you’re looking to bolster your lineup for a winning push, check out these critical names to consider grabbing off the waiver wire!

Key Guidelines

- **Roster Percentage:** Players must be under 60% rostered on Yahoo.

- **Prioritization:** Choices are listed based on potential upside over immediate production.

- **RB Insight:** Backups are categorized separately based on injuries to the lead option.

- **No FAB Suggestions:** Bidding strategies can differ wildly based on league dynamics and player needs.

Worry Level: Who Should You Be Concerned About?

**Tua Tagovailoa, QB, MIA**: ⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️ With performances lagging behind, Tagovailoa is struggling to find his rhythm as the Dolphins head to Cleveland. His cold-weather record raises doubts about a potential bounce-back just in time for your championship.

**Joe Mixon, RB, HOU**: ⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️ Mixon has not delivered consistent results, especially against a tough Ravens defense. If he’s still in your lineup, remember to look for higher-upsides elsewhere!

**Cooper Kupp, WR, LAR**: ⚠️⚠️⚠️ Kupp’s disappointing performance leaves many owners in need of alternatives. If you’ve managed to survive his low-scoring weeks, it might be time to assess your depth and consider a benching against the Cardinals.

Top Streaming Quarterbacks for Week 17

- **Bo Nix, DEN (at CIN)**

- **Matthew Stafford, LAR (vs ARI)**

- **Aaron Rodgers, NYJ (at BUF)**

- **Geno Smith, SEA (at CHI)**

Waiver Wire Running Backs to Consider

- **Jerome Ford, CLE**: With new opportunities after last week's fumble, Ford looks poised to deliver RB2 worth.

- **Michael Carter & Trey Benson, ARI**: If James Conner is sidelined, Benson rises to a Top 20 option, while Carter becomes a solid RB3 candidate.

- **J.K. Dobbins, LAC**: Returning from injury, Dobbins could surprise as a Top 20 pick, perfect for desperate managers.

Top Waiver Wire Wide Receivers

- **Hollywood Brown, KC**: Despite being a boom/bust option, he offers potential as the Chiefs adjust their playstyle. Don’t overlook his upside!

- **Rashod Bateman, BAL**: His value hinges on Zay Flowers’ status; keep him on your radar.

- **Quentin Johnston, LAC**: While currently a risk, Johnston has touchdown potential if he finds the end zone.

Streaming Tight Ends

- **Dalton Schultz, HOU**

- **Chigoziem Okonkwo, TEN**

- **Hunter Henry, NE**

Streaming Defense/Special Teams

- **IND at NYG**

- **MIA at CLE**

- **TEN at JAX**

Special Note for Week 18 Considerations

Be aware that several teams could rest key players if playoff positions are set, including the Chiefs, Bills, and Texans. Keep an eye on their status to maximize your team’s potential as you head into the playoffs.

This week is crucial for your fantasy championship, so utilize these tips to make those last-minute adjustments! Every decision counts more than ever. Good luck, fantasy managers! 🏆🌟