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Prepare for Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season by targeting top waiver wire pickups and trade options to strengthen your fantasy football team.
This week is more about the waiver wire. Here’s a breakdown of four key players – a quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end – that you should prioritize heading into Week 5.
Top Waiver Wire and Trade Targets for Fantasy Football Week 5
Quarterback
Geno Smith, QB, Seattle Seahawks (28.9% Rostered)
Geno Smith has been playing solid football this season and is an excellent option for managers seeking quarterback help via the waiver wire or trade.
Consistent Production: Currently ranked as the QB13 in fantasy football, showing steady performances each week.
Impressive Metrics: Among 35 qualifying quarterbacks, Smith ranks 13th in yards per attempt, 3rd in Completion Percentage Over Expected (CPOE), and 15th in passer rating.
Upcoming Matchups: Faces the Lions tonight on Monday Night Football, then has a favorable Week 5 matchup against a Giants’ secondary that has struggled, making him an attractive fantasy option.
Given his accuracy and these upcoming opportunities, Smith offers strong potential for fantasy managers needing a quarterback.
Running Back
Roschon Johnson, RB, Chicago Bears (13.2% Rostered)
Roschon Johnson is emerging as a valuable fantasy option with an increasing role in the Bears’ backfield.
Increased Involvement: Played 37% of the snaps in Week 4, totaling 12 touches and 64 yards.
Red Zone Presence: Saw the majority of red-zone snaps (47%) and showcased his ability with a 25% missed tackle rate and 2.88 yards after contact per attempt.
Week 5 Outlook: Faces a favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled to stop the run, allowing significant yards after contact.
Johnson is set for an extended role this week and could produce RB2 numbers, making him an appealing flex play.
Wide Receiver
Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Green Bay Packers (9.6% Rostered)
Dontayvion Wicks showed his potential in Week 4 and is an exciting waiver wire target moving forward.
Had his best game of the season, catching 5 of 13 targets for 78 yards and two touchdowns.
With Christian Watson dealing with an injury, Wicks could see an increased role in the Packers' offense.
The Packers face the Rams in Week 5, giving Wicks an opportunity to build on his recent momentum.
Wicks' potential for consistent involvement makes him a worthwhile addition, especially if Watson's absence continues.
Tight End
Taysom Hill, TE, New Orleans Saints (27.3% Rostered)
Taysom Hill is your weekly gamble at tight end, but the upside is worth considering, especially in deeper leagues.
Hill has played 32-47% of the snaps each week, averaging five touches and 27.5 total yards.
He hasn’t seen a red zone target or rushing attempt yet, and he missed last week's game with a chest injury.
Despite these factors, Hill remains a high-upside option at a thin position and can deliver explosive performances on any given week.
Hill is worth the gamble in Week 5 if you're looking for a potential boom performance at tight end.