Top Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Picks for NFL Week 3

The NFL season is in full swing, and fantasy football enthusiasts are eagerly scanning the waiver wire to find those hidden gems that could transform their teams. Week 3 promises to be just as unpredictable as the first two weeks, with injuries and surprising performances shaking up the fantasy landscape.

The challenge lies in identifying the players who offer both talent and opportunity. This week’s waiver wire presents several intriguing options, each with a unique set of circumstances that make them potential game-changers for your fantasy team.

Antonio Gibson: A New Opportunity in New England

Antonio Gibson was known for his pass-catching skills in Washington, but he has taken on a bigger role in the New England Patriots’ rushing attack. With a fifth-place ranking in rushing offense and steady work on the ground, Gibson shines as a viable waiver wire pick for fantasy managers looking for running back depth, especially in leagues with 32% availability.

Braelon Allen: The Jets’ Young Playmaker

Braelon Allen, at just 20 years old, has quickly showcased his playmaking capabilities with the New York Jets. While he won’t oust Breece Hall as the primary starter, Allen turned nine touches into 56 yards and two touchdowns, making him a fantasy asset with untapped potential. He’s available in 36% of leagues.

Quentin Johnston: A Second Chance with the Chargers

Quentin Johnston has had a rocky NFL start, but under Jim Harbaugh’s guidance at the Los Angeles Chargers, he seems poised for a breakout. With big-play potential evidenced by his Week 2 performance, Johnston could become a valuable contributor down the stretch, with 41% availability.

Derek Carr: Steady and Reliable

Leading the New Orleans Saints’ offense, Derek Carr has completed nearly 77% of his passes, demonstrating precision and consistency. With a matchup against the Eagles on the horizon, Carr stands out as a streaming option for Week 3, holding a 43% availability rate.

Alec Pierce: Capitalizing on Opportunities

Alec Pierce of the Indianapolis Colts is gaining traction in the passing game, particularly with injuries affecting teammates like Josh Downs. Having found the end zone in both games this season, Pierce is becoming a reliable target and is available in 56% of leagues.

Andrei Iosivas: A Role in Cincinnati

Andrei Iosivas is making the most of his opportunities with the Cincinnati Bengals. Although limited to two receptions in Week 2, both were for touchdowns. As Tee Higgins works his way back to full health, Iosivas continues to carve out a role for himself, available in 66% of leagues.

D’Onta Foreman: Making the Most of His Chances

D’Onta Foreman of the Cleveland Browns is no stranger to the waiver wire, having previously transitioned from a pickup to a reliable starter. With more touches than Jerome Ford in Week 2, Foreman’s stock is rising, and he remains widely available across 75% of leagues.

Jalen Tolbert: Emerging in Dallas

Jalen Tolbert might be on the cusp of outperforming veteran expectations with the Dallas Cowboys. Following a solid Week 2 performance, Tolbert could prove to be a smart waiver wire addition as he fights for a larger role amid the Cowboys’ struggles and CeeDee Lamb’s dominance, available in 78% of leagues.

Carson Steele: A Necessity in Kansas City

With starter Isiah Pacheco sidelined, Carson Steele finds himself in a prime position to pick up the slack for the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite previous challenges, Steele is now likely to see increased snaps, making him a hot commodity on the waiver wire with 80% availability.

Jauan Jennings: Stepping Up for the 49ers

With Deebo Samuel out due to a calf strain, Jauan Jennings is expected to see a boost in targets. The San Francisco 49ers receiver has shown potential and is poised to take on a more significant role, available in 86% of leagues.

Jalen Nailor: A Rising Star in Minnesota

Playing for the Minnesota Vikings, Jalen Nailor has capitalized on the opportunity presented by the injuries to Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Though he has seen limited targets, Nailor has managed to catch touchdowns in both games, making him a valuable pickup with 88% availability.

Opportunities like these don’t come often in fantasy football, and being proactive on the waiver wire can set up your team for success as the season progresses. Keep a close eye on these players, as their stock continues to rise with each passing week.