Deeper Waiver Wire Sleepers: Players Who May Still Be Available

Did you lose someone to injury last week and need a fill-in for the Week 16 championship round? Well have no fear, because we’re digging deep every week for some waiver wire adds that can help propel your team to fantasy glory. I'm going to take a look at some players that are almost definitely available in your league who could provide quite a boost to your team for this last important week.

In this piece, I've attempted to identify some deeper sleepers who may have either fallen off the radar, or are not getting enough love from fantasy football owners and are still underowned. Some of these players may be available in your leagues, depending on the league size and format, so feel free to pick them up and stash them if they’re still sitting out there.

You never know– any of these players could produce nicely in Week 16 and become difference-makers for fantasy football owners, especially in deeper leagues with thin waiver wires. Remember, we're digging deeper here, so let’s see what the free agent pool has lying around just in case you're still in thick of things.

Digging Deeper - Potential Waiver Wire Sleepers

Nate Washington - WR, Tennessee Titans

10% Owned in Fleaflicker leagues

Washington’s put up about 150 yards on nine catches over the past two games since the Titans lost Justin Hunter for the season and have been without Kendall Wright.  With a matchup against the Jaguars coming up on Thursday, those numbers could continue, even with Charlie Whitehurst at QB.  Washington was the clear focal point for the Titans, even above Delanie Walker, and should remain a top-two option going forward if Wright misses the game, which is a distinct possibility.  He’s a safe, decent upside FLEX play that is well known for his deep-ball ability.  With the waiver wire thin this time of the year, Washington becomes a top add.

Kyle Rudolph - TE, Minnesota Vikings 

52% Owned in Fleaflicker leagues

I’m going to feature Rudolph here again this week, as he finally put together his first solid game since coming back from injury, posting a perfect seven catches on seven targets for 69 yards against a team that’s been more than solid against tight ends.  He’s instantly the second in line for targets behind Charles Johnson, now that his workload will increase.  While the Dolphins have been just as good, Rob Gronkowski was able to beat them vertically this past week, and I expect Rudolph to see at least five targets, including some red zone looks.  He’s one of the better streamer options this week for those that need one.

Hail Mary Plays For Week 16

Nick Toon - WR, New Orleans Saints

1% Owned in Fleaflicker leagues

After a slow start to his career, Nick Toon has finally been given some action late into his second season, catching eight balls for 88 yards over the past two games against some dreadful secondaries.  There’s not much to like for this year, but Toon does have long-term value here, as long as Drew Brees is at quarterback.  The Saints should have a shootout against the Falcons this week, so expect at least a few targets.  He’s a dart-throw FLEX guy for those desperate enough to be looking for one.

Tim Wright - TE, New England Patriots

 28% Owned in Fleaflicker leagues

Desperate times call for desperate measures.  After barely seeing the field the past few games, look for Tim Wright to possibly see some looks against a Jets secondary that can’t cover anyone, especially tight ends (29th in the NFL).