As fantasy football managers dive into the second week of the season, navigating the landscape is becoming increasingly tricky due to a spate of injuries among key players. If you're scrambling for viable options, here are five players to consider acquiring from the waiver wire to bolster your lineup. Let’s dissect these potential game-changers! 🏈

RB Quinshon Judkins, Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns made a strategic move early in the 2025 NFL draft, highlighting the importance of having depth in the running back department. In Week 1, without Judkins, the squad’s rushing attack struggled dramatically, generating a mere 40 yards on 21 carries (an average of 1.9 yards per attempt). After a challenging offseason, Judkins finally returned to full practice this week and is poised to make his NFL debut against the Baltimore Ravens. While there might be lingering concerns about a potential suspension down the line this season or next, his presence on the field certainly promises an offensive upgrade and could be a significant find off waivers. 🌟

Currently available in 44% of ESPN leagues and 40% of Yahoo! leagues.

WR Darnell Mooney, Atlanta Falcons

After sitting out Week 1 due to a shoulder ailment, Mooney is now completely cleared to participate in Week 2. In his two games alongside quarterback Michael Penix Jr., Mooney registered 11 targets, including an impressive performance where he caught five passes for 82 yards during Penix's inaugural start. Last year, Mooney surpassed 13 fantasy points in eight out of 16 games, hitting the 15-point mark in seven of those outings. With a promising matchup against the Minnesota Vikings—who have allowed the highest fantasy points per game to wide receivers since the start of the 2024 season—Mooney looks poised to make a splash. In their previous encounter, he dazzled with 142 yards and 20.2 fantasy points. He’s a player who should definitely be on rosters and could be plugged into lineups as needed. 🔥

Available in 38% of ESPN leagues and 50% of Yahoo! leagues.

WR Olamide Zaccheaus, Chicago Bears

In a surprising twist, Zaccheaus has carved out a significant role within the Bears’ offense, despite a star-studded array of talent around him. After catching Caleb Williams’ only touchdown during the preseason, Zaccheaus was targeted seven times in Week 1, trailing only Rome Odunze for the most looks on the team. As last season concluded, Zaccheaus turned heads with standout performances for the Washington Commanders, amassing scores of 24 and 23.3 points in two of his last three games. This week, he faces a Detroit Lions defense that has been generous, allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to wide receivers since the 2024 season. 🚀

Available in 99.5% of ESPN leagues and 99% of Yahoo! leagues.

WR Cedric Tillman, Cleveland Browns

In Week 1, quarterback Joe Flacco leaned on only two wide receivers for multiple targets: Jerry Jeudy and Tillman, each receiving eight opportunities while logging 88.2% of the offensive snaps. Tillman emerged as the WR18 with 16.2 fantasy points and has another enticing matchup awaiting him against the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday. Last season, Tillman exploded for a career-high 25.4 fantasy points in his lone game against the Ravens, racking up 99 receiving yards and two touchdowns. 🔥

Available in 54% of ESPN leagues and 63% of Yahoo! leagues.

TE Juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints

The tight end who led Week 1 in fantasy points remains a hidden gem in over 50% of leagues across both ESPN and Yahoo! Fantasy platforms. The question of who would emerge as Spencer Rattler’s primary target, behind star Chris Olave, was settled in Week 1. Johnson participated in all but 1% of the Saints' offensive snaps and was targeted 11 times during the game. He led the squad with eight receptions and 76 receiving yards, standing out as the only tight end to receive double-digit targets in Week 1. As Rattler continues to develop, Johnson is likely to be a critical option moving forward. For those in search of a replacement for George Kittle, Johnson presents a strong alternative. 🎯

Available in 58% of ESPN leagues and 61% of Yahoo! leagues.

With these players available, fantasy managers have a wealth of options to explore. By strategically adding these talents, you can enrich your squad and navigate the complexities of your fantasy season with confidence! 🏆