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Week 5 Waiver Wire Adds For Your 2025 Fantasy Football Team
by Optimus Staff
We’ve got a veritable harvest of bountiful waiver wire options for you this week. With the bye weeks here – not on the way, they’re here – it means a lot more players are rosterable. We’ve got quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers galore! There are tight ends and kickers and yes, even more.
Ok, that was a fun little rhyme time. With multiple teams being out of commission every week until Week 15, it’s vital to ensure you’re ahead of the game should injuries or changing situations affect your starters. As we always say, stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.
Week 5 Waiver Wire Adds For Your 2025 Fantasy Football Team
Check out our Premium Tools – Use Code “OptimusFall” for 25% OFF 4 Months!
Quarterbacks:
Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks | Sleeper: 28% | ESPN: 9.4% | FAAB 5-7%
Like it or not, veteran journeyman QB Sam Darnold is back in the conversation as a viable fantasy football option only five weeks into the NFL season. To be fair, he’s been good, not great, and we know from experience how quickly it can fall apart for Darnold.
That said, outside of a Week 1 letdown in San Francisco, Darnold and the Seattle offense have been very good. The veteran QB has accrued 755 passing yards, 5 TD passes and only 2 INTs over the last three weeks. In that same span, Darnold has completed 70.1% of his passes, and Seattle is 3- 0.
Seattle faces off against Tampa Bay, Jacksonville and Houston before a Week 8 bye, giving Darnold three favorable matchups with likely pass-heavy scripts before the break. Given the injuries at the position and the options on the waiver wire, Darnold could be a less-expensive addition with QB1 tier upside at moments the rest of the season.
Jaxson Dart, New York Giants | Sleeper: 35% | ESPN: 21.1% | FAAB 5-7%
Am I crazy, recommending a green rookie QB playing in his second game, sans one of the best WRs in the league and behind a suspect line, as a waiver addition ahead of Week 5? Maybe, but hear me out.
With the loss of Malik Nabers to a torn ACL, it’s hard to imagine Giants head coach Brian Daboll trusting rookie QB Jaxson Dart to throw the ball much. The New York offense will likely become very condensed, and a shift to an even more run-heavy approach appears in the cards. So, why Dart?
In his NFL debut last week, against a very highly regarded Chargers defensive unit, Dart engineered a shocking upset, winning 21-18 at home. The rookie was efficient, throwing the ball, going 13-20 for 111 yards and a TD with no turnovers. Where it gets interesting for fantasy is what he did on the ground.
Dart logged 10 carries, most being designed runs, for 54 yards and a touchdown. He’s a true mobile QB, and Daboll appears to be willing to lean into that. With a rushing attack that is now just Dart and rookie Cam Skattebo, plus the condensed passing game, Dart will continue to get enough carries to make him an interesting QB2 option most weeks down the road, regardless of matchup.
Running Backs:
Woody Marks, Houston Texans | Sleeper 37% | ESPN 33.2% | 35% FAAB
Caveat: This could simply be a “hot hand” approach and not a full-on changing of the guard at RB for Houston. That said, it’s tough to sit before you and maintain that Nick Chubb has been good enough this year to keep a stranglehold on the job all to himself. There will be games like Week 4 where Woody Marks is the primary ball carrier in addition to Houston using him as the primary receiving RB. But it’s best to limit expectations for him at the moment to a hit-and-miss RB who will have weeks of relevance and weeks of obscurity.
However, news just broke that Joe Mixon is not close to returning, and if you weren’t already, it’s time to assume he won’t be back at all this year. On the chance Marks takes over the role altogether, you need to ensure he’s on your squad as we head into the byes.
Brashard Smith, Kansas City Chiefs | Sleeper 6% | ESPN .9% | 1-3% FAAB
This one is a little speculative in an “I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than pay a lot more later when it’s too late.” For the first time all year, Brashard Smith saw some rushing work out of the Kansas City backfield. He only received a single carry before the backups were in the game, though, so don’t expect fireworks right out of the gate.
He did see four targets with the starters in Week 4, though, and the hope for Smith entering the season is that he could redeux the monstrously productive Jerick McKinnon role from 2022. After the game, head coach Andy Reid even mentioned how they want to get Smith more involved and more snaps. Co-starters Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt have been fine, but unimpressive, so the opportunity to, ahem, “run away with the job,” is definitely there.
Emanuel Wilson, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper 3% | ESPN .6% | 1% or up to 25% FAAB (depends on news)
Another speculative play, but this one might have some legs to it. To be more specific, it’s a knee. You see, late in the Dallas vs. Green Bay game in Week 4, Josh Jacobs was in and out of the lineup frequently due to a reported cut below his knee. I wouldn’t expect Jacobs to miss time for it, but Emanuel Wilson is the clear backup to Jacobs and was quite productive in relief of him.
Again, there might be nothing to it, but after playing only six snaps in the first three quarters, Wilson played 19 snaps in the 4th quarter and overtime, compared to 16 for Jacobs. If we receive news about a more serious injury to Jacobs, that’s why I have the higher FAAB bid in there. If we don’t get any news to that end, you can probably sneak him through for 1%.
Chris Rodriguez, Washington Commanders | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 5% | <5% FAAB
This one is all about the bye weeks. They’re here, and they can be devastating for rosters. For the 2nd consecutive week, the Commanders split their RB work almost in perfect thirds between Bill Croskey-Merritt, Rodriguez, and Jeremy McNichols. The recommendation isn’t to add Rodriguez, and suddenly you’ll have an RB1 or even an RB2 on your roster. No, this is about having enough warm bodies to fill your starting lineup throughout the bye weeks, especially if your roster is dealing with injuries.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints | Sleeper 7% | ESPN 5.6% | 2% FAAB
To be very clear, there’s not a changing of the guard in New Orleans. Not yet. And Kendre Miller looked significantly better running the ball than Alvin Kamara did vs Buffalo in Week 4. They’re not the same type of RB at all, but Miller showed a burst and speed in the rushing and receiving games that Kamara simply doesn’t have at this stage in his career.
This is clearly a rebuilding/lost season for the Saints. It makes sense for them to play the young players more as the season progresses and see if it’s worthwhile to have them play a major part in the rebuild. Kendre Miller should be first and foremost among those young players if they go that route. He’s not a priority, like some others, but I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than wait too long and miss out entirely.
Wide Receivers:
Wan’Dale Robinson, New York Giants | Sleeper: 65% | ESPN: 54.3% | FAAB: 5-7%
With the awful news of an ACL tear that ended Malik Nabers’ 2025 season, we must rebuild. The Giants’ offense looked somewhat spry for enough of Week 4 to upset the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers in the debut of quarterback Jaxson Dart. Without Nabers, Dart is going to have to look to players like Cam Skattebo and Wan’Dale Robinson to produce in this offense for the rest of the season.
Robinson’s role has fluctuated massively this season, with aDOTs of 3.3, 16.7, 21.3, and 0.8 in his four games this season. Whether it’s a short, target-earning role that’s an extension of the run game, or a deep-ball role (or both!), Robinson is going to have to be a big factor for the Giants. Who else will? Darius Slayton will be around, but he’s boring and only somewhat productive. We haven’t seen Theo Johnson take a step in his second season. Former Biletnikoff Award winner Jalin Hyatt can’t earn a target to save his life. It’s a condensed target tree because it HAS to be in New York. Grab Robinson and make him a matchup-dependent flex option going forward for your fantasy team.
Jalen Coker, Carolina Panthers | Sleeper: 14% | ESPN: 7.8% | FAAB: 4-5%
Not much has changed with Jalen Coker, as he’s been sidelined with a quad injury. However, Coker is eligible to come off of injured reserve this week, though it’s not a sure thing that he’ll be activated right away. With Tetairoa McMillan as the locked-in top receiver for the Panthers, the team has struggled to get a consistent top option alongside him. That didn’t change in Week 4 as the Panthers were trounced by the New England Patriots thanks to another lackluster offensive performance.
Week 5 could see Coker return, but it seems more likely that the second-year receiver returns in Week 6 against Dallas at home. Coker has a great opportunity to seize the second-target role outright, with many of the options hurt or in unfamiliar roles. I mean, the Panthers gave somebody named Brycen Tremayne 90% of routes in Week 4. I’m not sure if that’s even a real human. Come back, Coker! We need you! And if he’s floating out there in free agency in your league, scoop him up and stash him for the next week or so before his return.
Luther Burden, Chicago Bears | Sleeper: 34% | ESPN: 12% | FAAB: 2-3%
It’s a VERY slow burn for Luther Burden, who sees his utilization remain stagnant each week. Week 3 saw Burden pop off for a 101-yard effort, thanks to a long touchdown. His routes and time on the field are still a work in progress, however. Week 3 was his best week in terms of time on the field, with 31% routes per dropback. Week 4 didn’t really stoke the fire either, with just two targets and for -4 yards.
Olamide Zaccheaus has been a thorn in the side of Burden in terms of the role we want Burden to have, as three-receiver sets with D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Burden would be music to everybody’s ears. As of right now, Burden is a bench stash, but getting him now and stashing him while you can is the much better option rather than having to pay up in FAAB or use a precious top waiver claim on him after he goes off or runs a starter’s share of the routes.
Tight Ends:
Brenton Strange, Jacksonville Jaguars | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 22.6% | 8-10% FAAB
Over the last two games, Strange has proven he belongs in the every-week low-end TE1 conversation. Even if you already have a stud tight end, such as Brock Bowers or Trey McBride, see if you can acquire Strange on your fantasy team(s) anyway! Despite Trevor Lawrence‘s struggles in Liam Coen’s new offensive system across four games, Strange has 19 catches on 23 targets for 182 yards. Finding the end zone will come soon for him. The Jaguars only have three receiving touchdowns so far this season. That number is expected to increase when they face easier defenses that struggle to defend the pass, such as the Raiders in Week 9. Nevertheless, it’s not strange (see what I did there?) to roster a second tight end on your team. Brenton Strange is getting enough PPR volume to become a must-roster, even in shallow leagues.
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots | Sleeper 69% (Nice) | ESPN 70.4% | 15% FAAB
If this man was left on the waiver wire during Week 4 in your league(s), then be sure you pick him up before Week 5 games start! Hunter Henry has entered the low-end TE1 conversation primarily due to his red zone usage. He’ll be facing a rock-solid Buffalo Bills defense in Week 5, but they have been known to play down to their competition, especially in division rivalry games. If the Patriots find themselves in the red zone, Drake Maye loves looking Hunter Henry’s way (rhyme totally intended). You don’t have to remain frustrated with your lack of tight end production when you get a guy like Hunter Henry on your fantasy team(s)!
For More In-Depth Analysis, Check Out Our Waiver Wire YouTube Show:
Defense/Special Teams (D/STs):
Cleveland Browns (vs Minnesota) | Sleeper 4% | ESPN 3.6% | FAAB 2-3%
If QB Carson Wentz is starting, you can bet I’ll be targeting him in fantasy football. Sure, you can argue he is good for fantasy right now in relief of injured QB J.J. McCarthy, who was atrocious for the first two weeks of the season. In fact, Wentz sits as the overall QB6* for Week 4 with 23.3 fantasy points. However, the flip side of his performance was two INTs, one fumble (which he managed to recover), and being sacked six times. Despite giving up 21 points to Wentz and company, the Steelers’ D/ST unit logged 12 fantasy points.
This week, Wentz heads into Cleveland to face off against a Browns defense that does well what rattles him the most – they effectively pressure QBs. And should J.J. McCarthy suit up, you’re looking at the same results, if not a little better. The second-year signal-caller has looked lost in his two starts, throwing three INTs, fumbling three times and losing one, and taking nine sacks.
*Pre-MNF
Indianapolis Colts (vs Las Vegas) | Sleeper 18% | ESPN 40.1% | FAAB 1-2%
The Colts couldn’t keep their hot start rolling this past week against the Los Angeles Rams, but fear not. Week 5 marks a new week, and Indianapolis gets a matchup against a struggling Las Vegas offense to get back on track.
The Raiders offense has playmakers, but it seems that age is starting to catch up with QB Geno Smith. The usually efficient veteran has struggled the last three weeks, throwing six interceptions and completing just 61.3% of his passes, ranking 23rd among qualifying QBs (minimum 70 dropbacks).
On the other hand, the Indianapolis defense has been adept at creating turnovers, logging six INTs and two fumble recoveries to go along with 10 sacks. Given the matchup, it’s reasonable to expect the Colts to get to the ball and rattle the veteran Smith, providing solid streaming D/ST value in Week 5.
Kickers:
Brandon McManus, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper | ESPN 16% | FAAB 0-1%
A great fantasy kicker is one on an offense that has troubles in the red zone. The more stalled drives, the more opportunities for points. That’s exactly what situation Packers kicker Brandon McManus appears to be in.
The Green Bay Packers’ offense, led by veteran QB Jordan Love, has been good, but not great. This has given McManus plenty of opportunities to showcase his leg. He is currently tied for 11th in the league in field goal attempts (9) and fourth in extra point attempts (12).
The Packers are on bye in Week 5, so McManus won’t be on a lot of radars this week as waivers run. If you have a bench spot open, thanks to the bevy of injuries thus far, the veteran Packer with a big leg is worth a stash. Otherwise, look for him on waivers for next to nothing next week as a potential rest-of-season starter for your kicker position.
Ka’imi Fairbairn, Houston Texans | Sleeper 41% | ESPN 33% | FAAB 1-2%
There are several similarities between Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn’s and McManus’ situations. Both are on mediocre offenses that struggle to move the ball at times, and both have had ample opportunities to showcase their kicking talents. However, unlike McManus, Fairbairn’s Houston counterparts aren’t scoring touchdowns, either.
Through four games, Fairbairn has made eight of his 10 field goal attempts, including two over 50 yards. However, unlike McManus, the fellow veteran kicker has only attempted four extra points. Week 5 brings a tough draw against the Baltimore Ravens, and while the Texans are unlikely to score many TDs, look for Fairbairn to get ample chances for field goal points. A Week 6 bye makes him a one-week streamer unless your bench is deep, but there’s enough there to make him worth a rental ahead of the Texans’ week off.
We’ve got a veritable harvest of bountiful waiver wire options for you this week. With the bye weeks here – not on the way, they’re here – it means a lot more players are rosterable. We’ve got quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers galore! There are tight ends and kickers and yes, even more.
Ok, that was a fun little rhyme time. With multiple teams being out of commission every week until Week 15, it’s vital to ensure you’re ahead of the game should injuries or changing situations affect your starters. As we always say, stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.
Week 5 Waiver Wire Adds For Your 2025 Fantasy Football Team
Check out our Premium Tools – Use Code “OptimusFall” for 25% OFF 4 Months!
Quarterbacks:
Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks | Sleeper: 28% | ESPN: 9.4% | FAAB 5-7%
Like it or not, veteran journeyman QB Sam Darnold is back in the conversation as a viable fantasy football option only five weeks into the NFL season. To be fair, he’s been good, not great, and we know from experience how quickly it can fall apart for Darnold.
That said, outside of a Week 1 letdown in San Francisco, Darnold and the Seattle offense have been very good. The veteran QB has accrued 755 passing yards, 5 TD passes and only 2 INTs over the last three weeks. In that same span, Darnold has completed 70.1% of his passes, and Seattle is 3- 0.
Seattle faces off against Tampa Bay, Jacksonville and Houston before a Week 8 bye, giving Darnold three favorable matchups with likely pass-heavy scripts before the break. Given the injuries at the position and the options on the waiver wire, Darnold could be a less-expensive addition with QB1 tier upside at moments the rest of the season.
Jaxson Dart, New York Giants | Sleeper: 35% | ESPN: 21.1% | FAAB 5-7%
Am I crazy, recommending a green rookie QB playing in his second game, sans one of the best WRs in the league and behind a suspect line, as a waiver addition ahead of Week 5? Maybe, but hear me out.
With the loss of Malik Nabers to a torn ACL, it’s hard to imagine Giants head coach Brian Daboll trusting rookie QB Jaxson Dart to throw the ball much. The New York offense will likely become very condensed, and a shift to an even more run-heavy approach appears in the cards. So, why Dart?
In his NFL debut last week, against a very highly regarded Chargers defensive unit, Dart engineered a shocking upset, winning 21-18 at home. The rookie was efficient, throwing the ball, going 13-20 for 111 yards and a TD with no turnovers. Where it gets interesting for fantasy is what he did on the ground.
Dart logged 10 carries, most being designed runs, for 54 yards and a touchdown. He’s a true mobile QB, and Daboll appears to be willing to lean into that. With a rushing attack that is now just Dart and rookie Cam Skattebo, plus the condensed passing game, Dart will continue to get enough carries to make him an interesting QB2 option most weeks down the road, regardless of matchup.
Running Backs:
Woody Marks, Houston Texans | Sleeper 37% | ESPN 33.2% | 35% FAAB
Caveat: This could simply be a “hot hand” approach and not a full-on changing of the guard at RB for Houston. That said, it’s tough to sit before you and maintain that Nick Chubb has been good enough this year to keep a stranglehold on the job all to himself. There will be games like Week 4 where Woody Marks is the primary ball carrier in addition to Houston using him as the primary receiving RB. But it’s best to limit expectations for him at the moment to a hit-and-miss RB who will have weeks of relevance and weeks of obscurity.
However, news just broke that Joe Mixon is not close to returning, and if you weren’t already, it’s time to assume he won’t be back at all this year. On the chance Marks takes over the role altogether, you need to ensure he’s on your squad as we head into the byes.
Brashard Smith, Kansas City Chiefs | Sleeper 6% | ESPN .9% | 1-3% FAAB
This one is a little speculative in an “I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than pay a lot more later when it’s too late.” For the first time all year, Brashard Smith saw some rushing work out of the Kansas City backfield. He only received a single carry before the backups were in the game, though, so don’t expect fireworks right out of the gate.
He did see four targets with the starters in Week 4, though, and the hope for Smith entering the season is that he could redeux the monstrously productive Jerick McKinnon role from 2022. After the game, head coach Andy Reid even mentioned how they want to get Smith more involved and more snaps. Co-starters Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt have been fine, but unimpressive, so the opportunity to, ahem, “run away with the job,” is definitely there.
Emanuel Wilson, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper 3% | ESPN .6% | 1% or up to 25% FAAB (depends on news)
Another speculative play, but this one might have some legs to it. To be more specific, it’s a knee. You see, late in the Dallas vs. Green Bay game in Week 4, Josh Jacobs was in and out of the lineup frequently due to a reported cut below his knee. I wouldn’t expect Jacobs to miss time for it, but Emanuel Wilson is the clear backup to Jacobs and was quite productive in relief of him.
Again, there might be nothing to it, but after playing only six snaps in the first three quarters, Wilson played 19 snaps in the 4th quarter and overtime, compared to 16 for Jacobs. If we receive news about a more serious injury to Jacobs, that’s why I have the higher FAAB bid in there. If we don’t get any news to that end, you can probably sneak him through for 1%.
Chris Rodriguez, Washington Commanders | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 5% | <5% FAAB
This one is all about the bye weeks. They’re here, and they can be devastating for rosters. For the 2nd consecutive week, the Commanders split their RB work almost in perfect thirds between Bill Croskey-Merritt, Rodriguez, and Jeremy McNichols. The recommendation isn’t to add Rodriguez, and suddenly you’ll have an RB1 or even an RB2 on your roster. No, this is about having enough warm bodies to fill your starting lineup throughout the bye weeks, especially if your roster is dealing with injuries.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints | Sleeper 7% | ESPN 5.6% | 2% FAAB
To be very clear, there’s not a changing of the guard in New Orleans. Not yet. And Kendre Miller looked significantly better running the ball than Alvin Kamara did vs Buffalo in Week 4. They’re not the same type of RB at all, but Miller showed a burst and speed in the rushing and receiving games that Kamara simply doesn’t have at this stage in his career.
This is clearly a rebuilding/lost season for the Saints. It makes sense for them to play the young players more as the season progresses and see if it’s worthwhile to have them play a major part in the rebuild. Kendre Miller should be first and foremost among those young players if they go that route. He’s not a priority, like some others, but I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than wait too long and miss out entirely.
Wide Receivers:
Wan’Dale Robinson, New York Giants | Sleeper: 65% | ESPN: 54.3% | FAAB: 5-7%
With the awful news of an ACL tear that ended Malik Nabers’ 2025 season, we must rebuild. The Giants’ offense looked somewhat spry for enough of Week 4 to upset the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers in the debut of quarterback Jaxson Dart. Without Nabers, Dart is going to have to look to players like Cam Skattebo and Wan’Dale Robinson to produce in this offense for the rest of the season.
Robinson’s role has fluctuated massively this season, with aDOTs of 3.3, 16.7, 21.3, and 0.8 in his four games this season. Whether it’s a short, target-earning role that’s an extension of the run game, or a deep-ball role (or both!), Robinson is going to have to be a big factor for the Giants. Who else will? Darius Slayton will be around, but he’s boring and only somewhat productive. We haven’t seen Theo Johnson take a step in his second season. Former Biletnikoff Award winner Jalin Hyatt can’t earn a target to save his life. It’s a condensed target tree because it HAS to be in New York. Grab Robinson and make him a matchup-dependent flex option going forward for your fantasy team.
Jalen Coker, Carolina Panthers | Sleeper: 14% | ESPN: 7.8% | FAAB: 4-5%
Not much has changed with Jalen Coker, as he’s been sidelined with a quad injury. However, Coker is eligible to come off of injured reserve this week, though it’s not a sure thing that he’ll be activated right away. With Tetairoa McMillan as the locked-in top receiver for the Panthers, the team has struggled to get a consistent top option alongside him. That didn’t change in Week 4 as the Panthers were trounced by the New England Patriots thanks to another lackluster offensive performance.
Week 5 could see Coker return, but it seems more likely that the second-year receiver returns in Week 6 against Dallas at home. Coker has a great opportunity to seize the second-target role outright, with many of the options hurt or in unfamiliar roles. I mean, the Panthers gave somebody named Brycen Tremayne 90% of routes in Week 4. I’m not sure if that’s even a real human. Come back, Coker! We need you! And if he’s floating out there in free agency in your league, scoop him up and stash him for the next week or so before his return.
Luther Burden, Chicago Bears | Sleeper: 34% | ESPN: 12% | FAAB: 2-3%
It’s a VERY slow burn for Luther Burden, who sees his utilization remain stagnant each week. Week 3 saw Burden pop off for a 101-yard effort, thanks to a long touchdown. His routes and time on the field are still a work in progress, however. Week 3 was his best week in terms of time on the field, with 31% routes per dropback. Week 4 didn’t really stoke the fire either, with just two targets and for -4 yards.
Olamide Zaccheaus has been a thorn in the side of Burden in terms of the role we want Burden to have, as three-receiver sets with D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Burden would be music to everybody’s ears. As of right now, Burden is a bench stash, but getting him now and stashing him while you can is the much better option rather than having to pay up in FAAB or use a precious top waiver claim on him after he goes off or runs a starter’s share of the routes.
Tight Ends:
Brenton Strange, Jacksonville Jaguars | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 22.6% | 8-10% FAAB
Over the last two games, Strange has proven he belongs in the every-week low-end TE1 conversation. Even if you already have a stud tight end, such as Brock Bowers or Trey McBride, see if you can acquire Strange on your fantasy team(s) anyway! Despite Trevor Lawrence‘s struggles in Liam Coen’s new offensive system across four games, Strange has 19 catches on 23 targets for 182 yards. Finding the end zone will come soon for him. The Jaguars only have three receiving touchdowns so far this season. That number is expected to increase when they face easier defenses that struggle to defend the pass, such as the Raiders in Week 9. Nevertheless, it’s not strange (see what I did there?) to roster a second tight end on your team. Brenton Strange is getting enough PPR volume to become a must-roster, even in shallow leagues.
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots | Sleeper 69% (Nice) | ESPN 70.4% | 15% FAAB
If this man was left on the waiver wire during Week 4 in your league(s), then be sure you pick him up before Week 5 games start! Hunter Henry has entered the low-end TE1 conversation primarily due to his red zone usage. He’ll be facing a rock-solid Buffalo Bills defense in Week 5, but they have been known to play down to their competition, especially in division rivalry games. If the Patriots find themselves in the red zone, Drake Maye loves looking Hunter Henry’s way (rhyme totally intended). You don’t have to remain frustrated with your lack of tight end production when you get a guy like Hunter Henry on your fantasy team(s)!
For More In-Depth Analysis, Check Out Our Waiver Wire YouTube Show:
Defense/Special Teams (D/STs):
Cleveland Browns (vs Minnesota) | Sleeper 4% | ESPN 3.6% | FAAB 2-3%
If QB Carson Wentz is starting, you can bet I’ll be targeting him in fantasy football. Sure, you can argue he is good for fantasy right now in relief of injured QB J.J. McCarthy, who was atrocious for the first two weeks of the season. In fact, Wentz sits as the overall QB6* for Week 4 with 23.3 fantasy points. However, the flip side of his performance was two INTs, one fumble (which he managed to recover), and being sacked six times. Despite giving up 21 points to Wentz and company, the Steelers’ D/ST unit logged 12 fantasy points.
This week, Wentz heads into Cleveland to face off against a Browns defense that does well what rattles him the most – they effectively pressure QBs. And should J.J. McCarthy suit up, you’re looking at the same results, if not a little better. The second-year signal-caller has looked lost in his two starts, throwing three INTs, fumbling three times and losing one, and taking nine sacks.
*Pre-MNF
Indianapolis Colts (vs Las Vegas) | Sleeper 18% | ESPN 40.1% | FAAB 1-2%
The Colts couldn’t keep their hot start rolling this past week against the Los Angeles Rams, but fear not. Week 5 marks a new week, and Indianapolis gets a matchup against a struggling Las Vegas offense to get back on track.
The Raiders offense has playmakers, but it seems that age is starting to catch up with QB Geno Smith. The usually efficient veteran has struggled the last three weeks, throwing six interceptions and completing just 61.3% of his passes, ranking 23rd among qualifying QBs (minimum 70 dropbacks).
On the other hand, the Indianapolis defense has been adept at creating turnovers, logging six INTs and two fumble recoveries to go along with 10 sacks. Given the matchup, it’s reasonable to expect the Colts to get to the ball and rattle the veteran Smith, providing solid streaming D/ST value in Week 5.
Kickers:
Brandon McManus, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper | ESPN 16% | FAAB 0-1%
A great fantasy kicker is one on an offense that has troubles in the red zone. The more stalled drives, the more opportunities for points. That’s exactly what situation Packers kicker Brandon McManus appears to be in.
The Green Bay Packers’ offense, led by veteran QB Jordan Love, has been good, but not great. This has given McManus plenty of opportunities to showcase his leg. He is currently tied for 11th in the league in field goal attempts (9) and fourth in extra point attempts (12).
The Packers are on bye in Week 5, so McManus won’t be on a lot of radars this week as waivers run. If you have a bench spot open, thanks to the bevy of injuries thus far, the veteran Packer with a big leg is worth a stash. Otherwise, look for him on waivers for next to nothing next week as a potential rest-of-season starter for your kicker position.
Ka’imi Fairbairn, Houston Texans | Sleeper 41% | ESPN 33% | FAAB 1-2%
There are several similarities between Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn’s and McManus’ situations. Both are on mediocre offenses that struggle to move the ball at times, and both have had ample opportunities to showcase their kicking talents. However, unlike McManus, Fairbairn’s Houston counterparts aren’t scoring touchdowns, either.
Through four games, Fairbairn has made eight of his 10 field goal attempts, including two over 50 yards. However, unlike McManus, the fellow veteran kicker has only attempted four extra points. Week 5 brings a tough draw against the Baltimore Ravens, and while the Texans are unlikely to score many TDs, look for Fairbairn to get ample chances for field goal points. A Week 6 bye makes him a one-week streamer unless your bench is deep, but there’s enough there to make him worth a rental ahead of the Texans’ week off.
We’ve got a veritable harvest of bountiful waiver wire options for you this week. With the bye weeks here – not on the way, they’re here – it means a lot more players are rosterable. We’ve got quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers galore! There are tight ends and kickers and yes, even more.
Ok, that was a fun little rhyme time. With multiple teams being out of commission every week until Week 15, it’s vital to ensure you’re ahead of the game should injuries or changing situations affect your starters. As we always say, stay ready so you don’t have to get ready.
Week 5 Waiver Wire Adds For Your 2025 Fantasy Football Team
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Quarterbacks:
Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks | Sleeper: 28% | ESPN: 9.4% | FAAB 5-7%
Like it or not, veteran journeyman QB Sam Darnold is back in the conversation as a viable fantasy football option only five weeks into the NFL season. To be fair, he’s been good, not great, and we know from experience how quickly it can fall apart for Darnold.
That said, outside of a Week 1 letdown in San Francisco, Darnold and the Seattle offense have been very good. The veteran QB has accrued 755 passing yards, 5 TD passes and only 2 INTs over the last three weeks. In that same span, Darnold has completed 70.1% of his passes, and Seattle is 3- 0.
Seattle faces off against Tampa Bay, Jacksonville and Houston before a Week 8 bye, giving Darnold three favorable matchups with likely pass-heavy scripts before the break. Given the injuries at the position and the options on the waiver wire, Darnold could be a less-expensive addition with QB1 tier upside at moments the rest of the season.
Jaxson Dart, New York Giants | Sleeper: 35% | ESPN: 21.1% | FAAB 5-7%
Am I crazy, recommending a green rookie QB playing in his second game, sans one of the best WRs in the league and behind a suspect line, as a waiver addition ahead of Week 5? Maybe, but hear me out.
With the loss of Malik Nabers to a torn ACL, it’s hard to imagine Giants head coach Brian Daboll trusting rookie QB Jaxson Dart to throw the ball much. The New York offense will likely become very condensed, and a shift to an even more run-heavy approach appears in the cards. So, why Dart?
In his NFL debut last week, against a very highly regarded Chargers defensive unit, Dart engineered a shocking upset, winning 21-18 at home. The rookie was efficient, throwing the ball, going 13-20 for 111 yards and a TD with no turnovers. Where it gets interesting for fantasy is what he did on the ground.
Dart logged 10 carries, most being designed runs, for 54 yards and a touchdown. He’s a true mobile QB, and Daboll appears to be willing to lean into that. With a rushing attack that is now just Dart and rookie Cam Skattebo, plus the condensed passing game, Dart will continue to get enough carries to make him an interesting QB2 option most weeks down the road, regardless of matchup.
Running Backs:
Woody Marks, Houston Texans | Sleeper 37% | ESPN 33.2% | 35% FAAB
Caveat: This could simply be a “hot hand” approach and not a full-on changing of the guard at RB for Houston. That said, it’s tough to sit before you and maintain that Nick Chubb has been good enough this year to keep a stranglehold on the job all to himself. There will be games like Week 4 where Woody Marks is the primary ball carrier in addition to Houston using him as the primary receiving RB. But it’s best to limit expectations for him at the moment to a hit-and-miss RB who will have weeks of relevance and weeks of obscurity.
However, news just broke that Joe Mixon is not close to returning, and if you weren’t already, it’s time to assume he won’t be back at all this year. On the chance Marks takes over the role altogether, you need to ensure he’s on your squad as we head into the byes.
Brashard Smith, Kansas City Chiefs | Sleeper 6% | ESPN .9% | 1-3% FAAB
This one is a little speculative in an “I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than pay a lot more later when it’s too late.” For the first time all year, Brashard Smith saw some rushing work out of the Kansas City backfield. He only received a single carry before the backups were in the game, though, so don’t expect fireworks right out of the gate.
He did see four targets with the starters in Week 4, though, and the hope for Smith entering the season is that he could redeux the monstrously productive Jerick McKinnon role from 2022. After the game, head coach Andy Reid even mentioned how they want to get Smith more involved and more snaps. Co-starters Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt have been fine, but unimpressive, so the opportunity to, ahem, “run away with the job,” is definitely there.
Emanuel Wilson, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper 3% | ESPN .6% | 1% or up to 25% FAAB (depends on news)
Another speculative play, but this one might have some legs to it. To be more specific, it’s a knee. You see, late in the Dallas vs. Green Bay game in Week 4, Josh Jacobs was in and out of the lineup frequently due to a reported cut below his knee. I wouldn’t expect Jacobs to miss time for it, but Emanuel Wilson is the clear backup to Jacobs and was quite productive in relief of him.
Again, there might be nothing to it, but after playing only six snaps in the first three quarters, Wilson played 19 snaps in the 4th quarter and overtime, compared to 16 for Jacobs. If we receive news about a more serious injury to Jacobs, that’s why I have the higher FAAB bid in there. If we don’t get any news to that end, you can probably sneak him through for 1%.
Chris Rodriguez, Washington Commanders | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 5% | <5% FAAB
This one is all about the bye weeks. They’re here, and they can be devastating for rosters. For the 2nd consecutive week, the Commanders split their RB work almost in perfect thirds between Bill Croskey-Merritt, Rodriguez, and Jeremy McNichols. The recommendation isn’t to add Rodriguez, and suddenly you’ll have an RB1 or even an RB2 on your roster. No, this is about having enough warm bodies to fill your starting lineup throughout the bye weeks, especially if your roster is dealing with injuries.
Kendre Miller, New Orleans Saints | Sleeper 7% | ESPN 5.6% | 2% FAAB
To be very clear, there’s not a changing of the guard in New Orleans. Not yet. And Kendre Miller looked significantly better running the ball than Alvin Kamara did vs Buffalo in Week 4. They’re not the same type of RB at all, but Miller showed a burst and speed in the rushing and receiving games that Kamara simply doesn’t have at this stage in his career.
This is clearly a rebuilding/lost season for the Saints. It makes sense for them to play the young players more as the season progresses and see if it’s worthwhile to have them play a major part in the rebuild. Kendre Miller should be first and foremost among those young players if they go that route. He’s not a priority, like some others, but I’d rather pay a little now and be wrong than wait too long and miss out entirely.
Wide Receivers:
Wan’Dale Robinson, New York Giants | Sleeper: 65% | ESPN: 54.3% | FAAB: 5-7%
With the awful news of an ACL tear that ended Malik Nabers’ 2025 season, we must rebuild. The Giants’ offense looked somewhat spry for enough of Week 4 to upset the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers in the debut of quarterback Jaxson Dart. Without Nabers, Dart is going to have to look to players like Cam Skattebo and Wan’Dale Robinson to produce in this offense for the rest of the season.
Robinson’s role has fluctuated massively this season, with aDOTs of 3.3, 16.7, 21.3, and 0.8 in his four games this season. Whether it’s a short, target-earning role that’s an extension of the run game, or a deep-ball role (or both!), Robinson is going to have to be a big factor for the Giants. Who else will? Darius Slayton will be around, but he’s boring and only somewhat productive. We haven’t seen Theo Johnson take a step in his second season. Former Biletnikoff Award winner Jalin Hyatt can’t earn a target to save his life. It’s a condensed target tree because it HAS to be in New York. Grab Robinson and make him a matchup-dependent flex option going forward for your fantasy team.
Jalen Coker, Carolina Panthers | Sleeper: 14% | ESPN: 7.8% | FAAB: 4-5%
Not much has changed with Jalen Coker, as he’s been sidelined with a quad injury. However, Coker is eligible to come off of injured reserve this week, though it’s not a sure thing that he’ll be activated right away. With Tetairoa McMillan as the locked-in top receiver for the Panthers, the team has struggled to get a consistent top option alongside him. That didn’t change in Week 4 as the Panthers were trounced by the New England Patriots thanks to another lackluster offensive performance.
Week 5 could see Coker return, but it seems more likely that the second-year receiver returns in Week 6 against Dallas at home. Coker has a great opportunity to seize the second-target role outright, with many of the options hurt or in unfamiliar roles. I mean, the Panthers gave somebody named Brycen Tremayne 90% of routes in Week 4. I’m not sure if that’s even a real human. Come back, Coker! We need you! And if he’s floating out there in free agency in your league, scoop him up and stash him for the next week or so before his return.
Luther Burden, Chicago Bears | Sleeper: 34% | ESPN: 12% | FAAB: 2-3%
It’s a VERY slow burn for Luther Burden, who sees his utilization remain stagnant each week. Week 3 saw Burden pop off for a 101-yard effort, thanks to a long touchdown. His routes and time on the field are still a work in progress, however. Week 3 was his best week in terms of time on the field, with 31% routes per dropback. Week 4 didn’t really stoke the fire either, with just two targets and for -4 yards.
Olamide Zaccheaus has been a thorn in the side of Burden in terms of the role we want Burden to have, as three-receiver sets with D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Burden would be music to everybody’s ears. As of right now, Burden is a bench stash, but getting him now and stashing him while you can is the much better option rather than having to pay up in FAAB or use a precious top waiver claim on him after he goes off or runs a starter’s share of the routes.
Tight Ends:
Brenton Strange, Jacksonville Jaguars | Sleeper 33% | ESPN 22.6% | 8-10% FAAB
Over the last two games, Strange has proven he belongs in the every-week low-end TE1 conversation. Even if you already have a stud tight end, such as Brock Bowers or Trey McBride, see if you can acquire Strange on your fantasy team(s) anyway! Despite Trevor Lawrence‘s struggles in Liam Coen’s new offensive system across four games, Strange has 19 catches on 23 targets for 182 yards. Finding the end zone will come soon for him. The Jaguars only have three receiving touchdowns so far this season. That number is expected to increase when they face easier defenses that struggle to defend the pass, such as the Raiders in Week 9. Nevertheless, it’s not strange (see what I did there?) to roster a second tight end on your team. Brenton Strange is getting enough PPR volume to become a must-roster, even in shallow leagues.
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots | Sleeper 69% (Nice) | ESPN 70.4% | 15% FAAB
If this man was left on the waiver wire during Week 4 in your league(s), then be sure you pick him up before Week 5 games start! Hunter Henry has entered the low-end TE1 conversation primarily due to his red zone usage. He’ll be facing a rock-solid Buffalo Bills defense in Week 5, but they have been known to play down to their competition, especially in division rivalry games. If the Patriots find themselves in the red zone, Drake Maye loves looking Hunter Henry’s way (rhyme totally intended). You don’t have to remain frustrated with your lack of tight end production when you get a guy like Hunter Henry on your fantasy team(s)!
For More In-Depth Analysis, Check Out Our Waiver Wire YouTube Show:
Defense/Special Teams (D/STs):
Cleveland Browns (vs Minnesota) | Sleeper 4% | ESPN 3.6% | FAAB 2-3%
If QB Carson Wentz is starting, you can bet I’ll be targeting him in fantasy football. Sure, you can argue he is good for fantasy right now in relief of injured QB J.J. McCarthy, who was atrocious for the first two weeks of the season. In fact, Wentz sits as the overall QB6* for Week 4 with 23.3 fantasy points. However, the flip side of his performance was two INTs, one fumble (which he managed to recover), and being sacked six times. Despite giving up 21 points to Wentz and company, the Steelers’ D/ST unit logged 12 fantasy points.
This week, Wentz heads into Cleveland to face off against a Browns defense that does well what rattles him the most – they effectively pressure QBs. And should J.J. McCarthy suit up, you’re looking at the same results, if not a little better. The second-year signal-caller has looked lost in his two starts, throwing three INTs, fumbling three times and losing one, and taking nine sacks.
*Pre-MNF
Indianapolis Colts (vs Las Vegas) | Sleeper 18% | ESPN 40.1% | FAAB 1-2%
The Colts couldn’t keep their hot start rolling this past week against the Los Angeles Rams, but fear not. Week 5 marks a new week, and Indianapolis gets a matchup against a struggling Las Vegas offense to get back on track.
The Raiders offense has playmakers, but it seems that age is starting to catch up with QB Geno Smith. The usually efficient veteran has struggled the last three weeks, throwing six interceptions and completing just 61.3% of his passes, ranking 23rd among qualifying QBs (minimum 70 dropbacks).
On the other hand, the Indianapolis defense has been adept at creating turnovers, logging six INTs and two fumble recoveries to go along with 10 sacks. Given the matchup, it’s reasonable to expect the Colts to get to the ball and rattle the veteran Smith, providing solid streaming D/ST value in Week 5.
Kickers:
Brandon McManus, Green Bay Packers | Sleeper | ESPN 16% | FAAB 0-1%
A great fantasy kicker is one on an offense that has troubles in the red zone. The more stalled drives, the more opportunities for points. That’s exactly what situation Packers kicker Brandon McManus appears to be in.
The Green Bay Packers’ offense, led by veteran QB Jordan Love, has been good, but not great. This has given McManus plenty of opportunities to showcase his leg. He is currently tied for 11th in the league in field goal attempts (9) and fourth in extra point attempts (12).
The Packers are on bye in Week 5, so McManus won’t be on a lot of radars this week as waivers run. If you have a bench spot open, thanks to the bevy of injuries thus far, the veteran Packer with a big leg is worth a stash. Otherwise, look for him on waivers for next to nothing next week as a potential rest-of-season starter for your kicker position.
Ka’imi Fairbairn, Houston Texans | Sleeper 41% | ESPN 33% | FAAB 1-2%
There are several similarities between Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn’s and McManus’ situations. Both are on mediocre offenses that struggle to move the ball at times, and both have had ample opportunities to showcase their kicking talents. However, unlike McManus, Fairbairn’s Houston counterparts aren’t scoring touchdowns, either.
Through four games, Fairbairn has made eight of his 10 field goal attempts, including two over 50 yards. However, unlike McManus, the fellow veteran kicker has only attempted four extra points. Week 5 brings a tough draw against the Baltimore Ravens, and while the Texans are unlikely to score many TDs, look for Fairbairn to get ample chances for field goal points. A Week 6 bye makes him a one-week streamer unless your bench is deep, but there’s enough there to make him worth a rental ahead of the Texans’ week off.
