Week 3 Upgrades, Downgrades, and Waiver Wire Wonders

The number in red next to a waiver wire gem indicated the percentage of a "blind bid" budget used in some leagues to award free agent pickups. If your league does not use blind bid waivers, consider the number a way to rank the quality of waiver wire additions.

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Quarterback Upgrade

1. QB Tua Tagovailoa, MIA (waiver wire: 25-50%)
2. QB Carson Wentz, WAS (waiver wire: 15-30%)
3. QB Jared Goff, DET (waiver wire: 10-20%)
4. QB Jalen Hurts, PHI
5. QB Lamar Jackson, BAL
6. QB Jimmy Garoppolo, SF (waiver wire: 3-5%)
7. QB Matthew Stafford, LAR
8. QB Joe Flacco, NYJ (waiver wire: 1%)
9. QB Marcus Mariota, ATL (waiver wire: 1%)
10. QB Aaron Rodgers, GB
11. QB Zach Wilson, NYJ (waiver wire: 1%)
12. QB Kenny Pickett, PIT (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex)
13. QB Desmond Ridder, ATL (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex)
14. QB Cooper Rush, DAL (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex)
15. QB Malik Willis, TEN (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex)

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Quarterback Downgrade

1. QB Trey Lance, SF (waiver wire: DROP)
2. QB Matt Ryan, IND (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX)
3. QB Justin Fields, CHI (waiver wire: HOLD)
4. QB Geno Smith, SEA (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX)
5. QB Ryan Tannehill, TEN (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX)
6. QB Russell Wilson, DEN (waiver wire: HOLD)
7. QB Tom Brady, TB
8. QB Kirk Cousins, MIN (waiver wire: HOLD)
9. QB Jameis Winston, NO (waiver wire: HOLD)

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Running Back Upgrade

1. RB Raheem Mostert, MIA (waiver wire: 20-40%)
2. RB Cam Akers, LAR
3. RB Aaron Jones, GB
4. RB Rhamondre Stevenson, NE
5. RB Jeff Wilson, SF
6. RB Breece Hall, NYJ
7. RB Tony Pollard, DAL
8. RB James Robinson, JAX
9. RB Darrel Williams, ARI (waiver wire: 5-10%)
10. RB Eno Benjamin, ARI (waiver wire: 3-5%)
11. RB Justice Hill, BAL (waiver wire: 3-5%)
12. RB Mark Ingram, NO (waiver wire: 3-5%)
13. RB Josh Jacobs, LV
14. RB Dameon Pierce, HOU
15. RB Tyler Allgeier, ATL (waiver wire: 1%)
16. RB Tyrion Davis-Price, SF (waiver wire: 1%)
17. RB Jordan Mason, SF (waiver wire: 1%)

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Running Back Downgrade

1. RB Rex Burkhead, HOU (waiver wire: DROP)
2. RB Kenyan Drake, BAL (waiver wire: DROP)
3. RB Travis Etienne, JAX
4. RB Damien Harris, NE
5. RB Najee Harris, PIT
6. RB Darrell Henderson, LAR (waiver wire: HOLD)
7. RB Rashaad Penny, SEA (waiver wire: DROP IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES)
8. RB Jaylen Warren, PIT (waiver wire: DROP)
9. RB James Conner, ARI
10. RB Dalvin Cook, MIN
11. RB Tyrion Davis-Price, SF (waiver wire: DROP)
12. RB Chase Edmonds, MIA (waiver wire: HOLD)
13. RB Kenneth Gainwell, PHI (waiver wire: HOLD)
14. RB Derrick Henry, TEN
15. RB Khalil Herbert, CHI (waiver wire: HOLD)
16. RB Nyheim Hines, IND (waiver wire: HOLD)
17. RB Cordarrelle Patterson, ATL
18. RB Jonathan Taylor, IND
19. RB Javonte Williams, DEN
20. RB Devin Singletary, BUF (waiver wire: HOLD)

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Wide Receiver Upgrade

1. WR Garrett Wilson, NYJ (waiver wire: 50+%)
2. WR Jahan Dotson, WAS (waiver wire: 10-20%)
3. WR Tyreek Hill, MIA
4. WR Drake London, ATL
5. WR Jakobi Meyers, NE (waiver wire: 10-20%)
6. WR Chris Olave, NO
7. WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, DET
8. WR Jaylen Waddle, MIA
9. WR Amari Cooper, CLE
10. WR Ashton Dulin, IND (waiver wire: 7-15%)
11. WR Josh Palmer, LAC (waiver wire: 7-15%)
12. WR Curtis Samuel, WAS
13. WR Nelson Agholor, NE (waiver wire: 5-10%)
14. WR Rashod Bateman, BAL
15. WR Greg Dortch, ARI (waiver wire: 5-10%)
16. WR Michael Gallup, DAL (waiver wire: 5-10%)
17. WR Deebo Samuel, SF
18. WR Sterling Shepard, NYG (waiver wire: 5-10%)
19. WR DeVonta Smith, PHI
20. WR Mike Williams, LAC
21. WR Brandon Aiyuk, SF
22. WR Cole Beasley, TB (waiver wire: 3-5%)
23. WR Noah Brown, DAL (waiver wire: 3-5%)
24. WR Christian Kirk, JAX
25. WR CeeDee Lamb, DAL
26. WR Tyler Lockett, SEA
27. WR Mack Hollins, LV (waiver wire: 1%)
28. WR Jameson Williams, DET (waiver wire: 1% if bench size allows)

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Wide Receiver Downgrade

1. WR DeVante Parker, NE (waiver wire: DROP)
2. WR George Pickens, PIT (waiver wire: DROP)
3. WR JuJu Smith-Schuster, KC (waiver wire: HOLD)
4. WR Darnell Mooney, CHI (waiver wire: HOLD)
5. WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, CLE (waiver wire: DROP)
6. WR Kyle Philips, TEN (waiver wire: DROP)
7. WR Christian Watson, GB (waiver wire: DROP)
8. WR Robbie Anderson, CAR (waiver wire: DROP IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES)
9. WR D.J. Chark, DET (waiver wire: DROP FOR 5-10% OR HIGHER)
10. WR Romeo Doubs, GB (waiver wire: DROP)
11. WR Mike Evans, TB
12. WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN
13. WR Elijah Moore, NYJ
14. WR K.J. Osborn, MIN (waiver wire: HOLD)
15. WR Kadarius Toney, NYG (waiver wire: HOLD EXCEPT IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES)
16. WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, KC (waiver wire: DROP)
17. WR Davante Adams, LV
18. WR Justin Jefferson, MIN
19. WR Jarvis Landry, NO (waiver wire: HOLD)
20. WR D.J. Moore, CAR

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Tight End Upgrade

1. TE Irv Smith, MIN (waiver wire: 10-20%)
2. TE Evan Engram, JAX (waiver wire: 7-15%)
3. TE Zach Ertz, ARI
4. TE Tyler Higbee, LAR (waiver wire: 7-15%)
5. TE George Kittle, SF
6. TE Logan Thomas, WAS (waiver wire: 7-15%)
7. TE Mark Andrews, BAL
8. TE Gerald Everett, LAC (waiver wire: 5-10%)
9. TE Mike Gesicki, MIA (waiver wire: 5-10%)
10. TE Juwan Johnson, NO (waiver wire: 3-5%)
11. TE Tyler Conklin, NYJ (waiver wire: 1%)
12. TE Isaiah Likely, BAL (waiver wire: 1%)

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Tight End Downgrade

1. TE Cole Kmet, CHI (waiver wire: DROP)
2. TE Dalton Schultz, DAL (waiver wire: HOLD)
3. TE Albert Okwuegbunam, DEN (waiver wire: DROP)
4. TE Noah Fant, SEA (waiver wire: DROP)
5. TE T.J. Hockenson, DET
6. TE Kyle Pitts, ATL

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Quarterback Upgrade

QB Joe Flacco, NYJ - (waiver wire: 1%) - Flacco may only get one more start - this week vs. the Bengals - but if the Jets win, we also might hear about how Zach Wilson isn't quite ready yet for Week 4. The Jets offense came alive when the Browns thought the game was over, but the shocking comeback win could still give the team and Flacco and lot of confidence going forward.

QB Jimmy Garoppolo, SF - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Garoppolo came in after Trey Lance went down and showed that he didn't need training camp to be ready to pilot the 49ers offense. He scored on a sneak and threw another score in the decisive win over the rival Seahawks. Garoppolo is a matchup QB1, and while Denver isn't the best matchup, he is at least worth a pickup as a backup if you are not feeling great about your starter right now.

QB Jared Goff, DET - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - The Lions once again put up a big point total, and this time, Goff was responsible for four of the touchdowns instead of two. The Lions offense is humming, and this is without first round pick Jameson Williams, who should return mid-season. Goff is a streaming QB1 next week against the Vikings in what should be a high-scoring game.

QB Jalen Hurts, PHI - Hurts has made strides as a passer and he's the team's power running back. Josh Allen has competition for the QB1 status. Washington's defense is up next and they don't appear to have the stuff to slow him down.

QB Lamar Jackson, BAL - Jackson is up to the task of carrying this offense with his arm, and he added a 79-yard score with his legs. He also had another rushing touchdown wiped off of the board by replay. He'll face New England this week as the Ravens try to shake off a stunning loss.

QB Marcus Mariota, ATL - (waiver wire: 1%) - Mariota was a decent fantasy start in the loss that almost turned into yet another shocking comeback win in the wild Week 2 action. He is showing that he is at least a top end backup and making himself some money, but the farther the Falcons fall in the standings, the closer we will get to Desmond Ridder. For now, consider Mariota a streaming QB1 against the Seahawks this week and decent bye/injury/emergency coverage in 1QB leagues.

QB Kenny Pickett, PIT - (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex) - Mike Tomlin might wait until the Week 9 bye, but we've seen enough. Trubisky has to go. Pickett will be starting sooner or later and needs to be rostered in every superflex/2QB league.

QB Desmond Ridder, ATL - (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex) - Marcus Mariota wasn't the reason the Falcons lost, but with each addition to L column, we will get closer to Ridder seeing the field. The Falcons should have a high pick next year, so they need to see what they have in Ridder before the season is over. Ridder should rostered in every 2QB/Superflex league.

QB Aaron Rodgers, GB - Rodgers bounced back with a solid game against the Bears to quell some of the worries that arose after a poor Week 1 against Minnesota. Left tackle David Bakhtiari should be back soon and the rookie wideouts and Robert Tonyan Jr coming back from ACL surgery should get better as the season goes on. Randall Cobb and Sammy Watkins even showed signs of life. Rodgers isn't a slam dunk start against the fierce Bucs defense, but he is back in QB1 consideration.

QB Cooper Rush, DAL - (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex) - Rush made the Cowboys look smart in Week 2. He should hold down the offense until Dak Prescott is back. Rush and Noah Brown showed that backup chemistry and the offensive line wasn't as beleaguered facing someone other than the Bucs. Consider Rush a low ceiling QB2/Superflex against the Giants and going forward.

QB Matthew Stafford, LAR - Week 2 was a bounceback for Stafford, who was able to move the ball easily through the air against a Falcons defense that isn't at the level of the Week 1 opponent, Buffalo. Stafford should be in for an even better game against the Cardinals in Week 3.

QB Tua Tagovailoa, MIA - (waiver wire: 25-50%) - The Dolphins might have struck gold with the Tagovailoa, Hill/Waddle, Mike McDaniel combination. The Ravens secondary was banged up, but also tired from chasing Hill and Waddle all day. Tagovailoa should be in lineups as a QB1 next week against Buffalo in what promises to be a high-scoring game and early showdown for divisional supremacy.

QB Carson Wentz, WAS - (waiver wire: 15-30%) - Wentz started slow, including being sacked in the end zone for a safety, but he exploited the flaws in the Lions defense for a big second half and almost got his team back in the game in the fourth quarter. He'll face the Eagles next week and should be considered a QB1. Wentz has a history of running hot and cold, so we might need to bail on him if/when he has back to back duds.

QB Malik Willis, TEN - (waiver wire: 1% in very deep/2QB/Superflex) - Willis saw the field and didn't look ready for prime time, but if the Titans swoon, we will see him. The only real obstacle is the Titans falling out of the playoff race, which may not happen for a while because the AFC South is the worst division in the NFL.

QB Zach Wilson, NYJ - (waiver wire: 1%) - The Jets pass offense looks very exciting with Garrett Wilson breaking out in Week 2 and Elijah Moore still being Elijah Moore. When Zach Wilson is ready, he'll inherit a passing game that could combine with his running ability to create a fantasy relevant quarterback. He shouldn't be on the waiver wire in 2QB/Superflex and is a good add in 1QB if you lost Trey Lance and guys like Wentz, Tagovailoa, and Goff are rostered already.

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Quarterback Downgrade

QB Tom Brady, TB - Brady didn't really play poorly against the Saints, he was just very short-handed and facing his nemesis team. Unfortunately, he gets a tough Green Bay defense next week and should be on benches in 1QB if you have a good QB2.

QB Kirk Cousins, MIN - (waiver wire: HOLD) - For whatever reason, Kirk Cousins turns into a pumpkin in Monday night games. The Eagles mercilessly tormented him in the blowout loss. Cousins still threw a ton and should bounce back against the Lions, but this will give us pause before anointing him an everyweek QB1.

QB Justin Fields, CHI - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Fields barely threw the ball in a game that the Bears trailed most of the way, but they did run the ball well and Fields ran for a score. He's not trustworthy in 1QB leagues yet, but as the new offense gets more comfortable, he could come on later in the season, so try to hold him as long as bench size allows.

QB Trey Lance, SF - (waiver wire: DROP) - Lance will miss the rest of the season with a broken ankle.

QB Matt Ryan, IND - (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX) - Ryan was terrible against the Jaguars, fizzling out in the red zone in a familiar sight for Falcons fans. He is just a desperation play against the Chiefs, and his QB2/Superflex appeal is waning.

QB Geno Smith, SEA - (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX) - Smith was highly accurate again, but there were no offensive fireworks against the 49ers. He has a low weekly ceiling despite playing with one of the best wide receiver tandems in the league. He's only useful in 2QB/Superflex despite a promising Week 1.

QB Ryan Tannehill, TEN - (waiver wire: DROP IN 1QB, HOLD IN 2QB/SUPERFLEX) - It might just be that the Bills are going to do this to most quarterbacks they face this year, but Tannehill looked terrible against them and probably can't be trusted in 1QB leagues no matter the matchup.

QB Russell Wilson, DEN - (waiver wire: HOLD) - In a turn of events that is almost funnier than it is sad, Russell Wilson is piloting an offense that needs more running and less passing. Only one of his top four receivers are healthy to boot. He's not a start in 1QB leagues against the 49ers.

QB Jameis Winston, NO - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Winston was knocked around by his old Bucs team and made some big mistakes at the worst possible time in the loss, reminding us of his low floor in leagues that penalize turnovers harshly. He was still airing it out and trying to get on the same page as Chris Olave downfield, so bigger games are going to come against easier defenses.

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Running Back Upgrade

RB Cam Akers, LAR - Akers turned the Rams backfield back into a committee in Week 2 and looked like his old self doing it, relieving fears that his achilles injury robbed him of something that he won't get back. He should be a viable flex play or emergency RB2 against the Cardinals this week.

RB Tyler Allgeier, ATL - (waiver wire: 1%) - Allgeier split work with Cordarrelle Patterson, but didn't impress in his first NFL action. He still has desperation play value and some Patterson injury upside while Damien Williams is on injured reserve, which will be through at least Week 5.

RB Eno Benjamin, ARI - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Benjamin looked good as part of the committee that took over when James Conner went down. He is only a what the heck flex with a little PPR boost and we don't know how long Conner will be out.

RB Tyrion Davis-Price, SF - (waiver wire: 1%) - Davis-Price got the call over Jordan Mason as the #2 back behind Jeff Wilson, but was unimpressive. It's not clear whether this will open the door to Mason getting more work against Denver, or if the team will give Davis-Price another chance in Week 3. Both he and Mason are worth a roster spot in deep leagues.

RB Breece Hall, NYJ - Hall got the better part of the Jets RBBC, scoring on a blown coverage and getting a lot of yards after contact. The Jets could also be invigorated after the shocking comeback win at Cleveland. Consider Hall a flex play against the Bengals this week.

RB Justice Hill, BAL - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - J.K. Dobbins should be back soon, maybe even in Week 3, and Gus Edwards not long after, but Hill has the best burst in the backfield on the backs that were active in Week 2, and he deserves a larger opportunity as the top 2 backs get healthy from 2021 ACL tears.

RB Mark Ingram, NO - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Ingram actually ran well against the Bucs stout run defense, but his red zone fumble late was a turning point in the game. Alvin Kamara's rib injury could keep him out another week, which would make Ingram a suitable flex or emergency RB2 against the Panthers.

RB Josh Jacobs, LV - All of the talk of Jacobs being mired in a Patriots-esque RBBC is small in the rearview mirror now after he dominated backfield touches in Week 2. The scores will come, perhaps this week against the Titans. Keep Jacobs in as an RB2/Flex.

RB Aaron Jones, GB - Any worries about Jones so-so Week 1 were obliterated when he posted the second best week among all Sunday running backs. He's an everyweek RB1 who will have some ups and downs since he splits work with A.J. Dillon.

RB Jordan Mason, SF - (waiver wire: 1%) - It appears Mason was only up over Tyrion Davis-Price in Week 1 because of special teams. Davis-Price got the opportunity behind Jeff Wilson in Week 2, but didn't do much with it, so perhaps Mason will get a chance in Week 3 against the Broncos. He's worth an add in deep leagues.

RB Raheem Mostert, MIA - (waiver wire: 20-40%) - Mostert took the first drive and didn't look back as the Dolphins appear to have installed him as the starter. Yes, he has a long injury history, but this offense will make teams play lighter boxes and Mostert should be a flex play at worst as long as he is healthy.

RB Dameon Pierce, HOU - Pierce and the Texans running game was much better in Week 2, and he should still be considered the starter even though Rex Burkhead got the bigger share of touches and snaps in Week 1. Consider Pierce a flex play or emergency RB2 against the Bears in Week 3.

RB Tony Pollard, DAL - The Cowboys showed more willingness to get Pollard involved in the passing game and he broke a long play on a short pass to reward them. They then rewarded him with the one-yard plunge to finish the drive. Consider him a what the heck flex and emergency RB2 against the Giants.

RB James Robinson, JAX - Robinson fended off Travis Etienne and helped the Jaguars get a decisive win with a long touchdown run. He wasn't very efficient on his other carries, but he's going to remain the more valuable of the top two Jaguars backs as long as he is healthy.

RB Rhamondre Stevenson, NE - Stevenson actually took a back seat to Damien Harris in the win over the Steelers in touches, but Harris went down with a knee injury of unspecified severity. Stevenson also got more snaps and routes run than Harris. Expect Stevenson to get the start vs. Baltimore this week assuming Harris is out and possibly beyond pending the severity of Harris injury.

RB Darrel Williams, ARI - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Williams looks like he'll get the goal line carries while James Conner is out (assuming he misses at least one week with the ankle injury that ended his Week 2 early), and he ran well on his carries and receptions. Eno Benjamin limits Williams weekly ceiling, but Williams is the better of the two to pick up as an RB2/Flex play against the Rams.

RB Jeff Wilson, SF - Wilson looked like the best 49ers running back not named Deebo Samuel in Week 2. He was a decent RB2/Flex play who would have put up RB1 numbers if he had scored from one yard out instead of Jimmy Garoppolo. Going from Trey Lance to Garoppolo is an upgrade for Wilson's prospects going forward.

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Running Back Downgrade

RB Rex Burkhead, HOU - (waiver wire: DROP) - Burkhead was well behind Dameon Pierce in touches vs Denver after looking like the lead back in Week 1. He can be dropped in all but the deepest of leagues

RB James Conner, ARI - Conner's ankle injury isn't considered serious or a long-term issue, but he is questionable at best for Week 3, and it probably won't be the last time he's on the injury report this year.

RB Dalvin Cook, MIN - Excitement for Cook is lowered after Week 2 after the Vikings offense looked very stoppable against the Eagles. He should bounce back against the Lions, but season-long expectations have to be a bit lower after the Vikings and Kirk Cousins came back to earth following a strong triumph over the Packers in Week 1.

RB Tyrion Davis-Price, SF - (waiver wire: DROP) - Davis-Price got the first opportunity behind Jeff Wilson, but didn't produce and ended up with a high ankle sprain. Maybe we'll revisit him later in the season.

RB Kenyan Drake, BAL - (waiver wire: DROP) - Like the Baltimore running game through the first two weeks, Drake's fantasy value is non-existent. He shouldn't be on rosters outside of very deep leagues.

RB Chase Edmonds, MIA - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Edmonds looks like the backup to Raheem Mostert, but we all know Mostert's injury history. This is also an offense on the rise, so don't drop Edmonds after his disappointing Week 2.

RB Travis Etienne, JAX - Etienne still has what the heck flex explosive play potential, but he is clearly behind James Robinson and only a Robinson injury will change that this season.

RB Kenneth Gainwell, PHI - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Gainwell didn't do much in the win over the Vikings because the game was out of hand pretty quickly. He still projects as a player the Eagles will use more in shootouts and Miles Sanders is not known for his reliability. Gainwell is more of a desperation flex right now, but the quality of his offense makes him a hold.

RB Damien Harris, NE - Harris looked good against the Steelers, and got the most touches, including goal line work, but hurt his knee on the game-clinching run. We await more details, but he's at best questionable for Week 3 vs. Baltimore.

RB Najee Harris, PIT - Harris has to stay in lineups because of his dedicated workload, but we have to lower expectations as the Steelers offense looks like one of the worst in the league. He wouldn't be a top 20 pick if we were drafting today.

RB Darrell Henderson, LAR - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Henderson at least scored, but it looks like hopes that he was the lead back were dashed when Cam Akers showed up and played well in basically a 50-50 split. Henderson is still a matchup RB2/Flex against the Cardinals and lower weekly usage could help him last longer, so don't drop him.

RB Derrick Henry, TEN - Henry doesn't look the same, but then again, neither do the Titans. You'll have to keep him in your lineup, but expectations are lower heading into a matchup with Raiders.

RB Khalil Herbert, CHI - (waiver wire: HOLD) - David Montgomery ran like a man trying to hold onto his job with a strong challenger behind him. For now, Montgomery is hanging tough, but don't drop Herbert as the team is running the ball well and Montgomery is still vulnerable if he falters.

RB Nyheim Hines, IND - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Hines hasn't been used more as promised this offseason, even though the Colts were down two of their top four receivers and trailed for most of the game vs. the Jaguars. He's just emergency/bye/injury PPR depth for now.

RB Cordarrelle Patterson, ATL - Patterson looked like he might a strong RB2 after Week 1, but after Week 2 he only looks like what the heck flex with no passing game involvement and rookie Tyler Allgeier sharing the work after Damien Williams went down. Keep Patterson in vs. Seattle, but relegate him to the bench until further notice if he doesn't do anything against the Seahawks.

RB Rashaad Penny, SEA - (waiver wire: DROP IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES) - The Seahawks offense looks limited, Kenneth Walker is back on the field, and Seattle has decided to be a pass-first offense without Russell Wilson. Penny isn't an essential hold in short bench leagues.

RB Devin Singletary, BUF - (waiver wire: HOLD) - The sad truth for Singletary is that the Bills don't need to run the ball to win. He's still the lead back and the team will become more balanced later in the season. He isn't a trustworthy RB2/Flex, but he shouldn't be dropped either.

RB Jonathan Taylor, IND - Taylor finally got going in the second half of the shutout loss to the Jaguars, but it's clear Matt Ryan's poor play will keep him from hitting his fantasy ceiling this year.

RB Jaylen Warren, PIT - (waiver wire: DROP) - Najee Harris's foot is ok, but the Steelers offense is not. Don't waste a roster spot on the backup running back in one of the worst offenses in the league.

RB Javonte Williams, DEN - Williams looks great, but the Broncos offense hasn't jelled through two weeks. He also didn't have the huge passing game role that buoyed his Week 1. Williams isn't going to be a fantasy RB1 this year without a Melvin Gordon injury.

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Wide Receiver Upgrade

WR Nelson Agholor, NE - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Agholor had an outstanding Week 2, punctuated by a contested catch score that could have easily been intercepted. He is gaining trust from Mac Jones and should be a WR3/Flex against the tired and banged up Ravens secondary.

WR Brandon Aiyuk, SF - Aiyuk was starting to get going with Trey Lance before the second year quarterback went down, but it's still indisputable that his value is higher with Jimmy Garoppolo on the field. Consider him a WR3/Flex against the Broncos this week.

WR Rashod Bateman, BAL - Bateman blew by Xavien Howard for a 75-yard score to make it two straight weeks with a long touchdown to boost fantasy teams that are depending on him. Lamar Jackson is at the top of his game, so Bateman is verging on WR2 status heading into a matchup with New England.

WR Cole Beasley, TB - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Beasley is only on the Bucs practice squad right now, but we know Tom Brady's history of production with slot receivers and the offensive line issues may turn this into a passing game heavy on short passing. Beasley has plenty of speculative value in PPR leagues.

WR Noah Brown, DAL - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Brown had his second straight good game to open the season, and production begets opportunity, but Michael Gallup is due back soon, and James Washington after that. It's also reasonable to wonder how much of Brown's production is coming because his chemistry with backup Cooper Rush, and who knows how much longer Rush will start.

WR Amari Cooper, CLE - Cooper had a breakout game of sorts with Jacoby Brissett, and Brissett's play was very encouraging in the effort to support Cooper's fantasy value. The #1 receiver did mishandle an onsides kick that led to the stunning loss, but that shouldn't affect his outlook going forward. The Steelers are up on Thursday night.

WR Greg Dortch, ARI - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Dortch was a solid play for the second straight week. It doesn't seem like Rondale Moore was close to playing in Week 2, and you have to wonder if Dortch will hold onto his role even after Moore is healthy. As long as Moore is out, Dortch is a viable WR3/Flex against the Rams.

WR Jahan Dotson, WAS - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - Dotson just keeps catching impressive contested balls even though he is not a big strong receiver that usually fits that type. Carson Wentz looks for him in the end zone, which gives him weekly upside, although in an offense with a wide target tree and Wentz prone to going cold, we can't count on the rookie as an everyweek starter quite yet. He is still worth a look as a WR3/Flex against the Eagles this week.

WR Ashton Dulin, IND - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Dulin was the one bright spot in the Colts offense in the shutout loss to the Jaguars. He has earned the WR2 spot even when rookie Alec Pierce is out of concussion protocol. If Michael Pittman is out again this week vs. the Chiefs, Dulin should be considered a WR3/Flex.

WR Michael Gallup, DAL - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Everything is looking up for the Cowboys as Gallup could return this week and Dak Prescott's absence is likely to be on the short side of the 6-8 week original timeline, if it is even that long. Gallup should be added in typical leagues after the Prescott injury appeared to take the wind out of his sails.

WR Tyreek Hill, MIA - Hill was part of the checkmate the Dolphins pass offense executed in the fourth quarter to complete one of the most stunning comebacks in the last decade. The offensive wizardry of Mike McDaniel could make Tyreek Hill even more valuable than he was with Patrick Mahomes II.

WR Mack Hollins, LV - (waiver wire: 1%) - The Raiders came out firing to Hollins, one of the most anonymous starting wide receivers in the NFL, and it worked as the Cardinals were focused on containing Davante Adams. The performance might not be repeated and Hollins stats will be unprediactable, but it's possible that he continues to build momentum against the Titans this week.

WR Christian Kirk, JAX - Kirk continues to light up the scoreboard in his role as the slot receiver in an offense that is making things easier for Trevor Lawrence. He caught two scores on plays that were designed to get the ball to him in the end zone, always a good thing for fantasy. Consider him a strong WR2 against the Chargers this week.

WR CeeDee Lamb, DAL - Lamb wasn't exactly a week winner against the Bengals, but he did enough to allow you to feel comfortable putting him in your lineup against the Giants this week and for any other games that Cooper Rush starts.

WR Tyler Lockett, SEA - Lockett isn't exactly an everyweek start with Geno Smith, but he did have the first big week by a Seahawks receiver this year, which at least gives you encouragement to use him as a bye/injury/emergency WR3/Flex, and maybe even put him in your lineup against the Falcons this week.

WR Drake London, ATL - London looks like the rare rookie wideout who can produce from day one. Having defenses focused on Kyle Pitts is helping, but that is unlikely to change as teams are having success with that approach. Consider London a WR3/Flex vs Seattle on the verge of WR2 value if he can keep this up. It's possible that Desmond Ridder gets in at quarterback eventually and adds uncertainty to London's outlook, but we'll worry about that when it gets here.

WR Jakobi Meyers, NE - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - Despite the offseason hype about DeVante Parker, Meyers is still Mac Jones favorite target. He looks like a PPR WR3/Flex going forward even though he lacks touchdown upside. Meyers has a good matchup against the weary and banged up Ravens secondary this week.

WR Chris Olave, NO - Olave had over 300 air yards against the Bucs. He only converted one of his deep shots and fumbled it without being touched, but the will to use him as a downfield target and Jameis Winston's aggressive nature should keep him in lineups against the Panthers as a WR3/Flex.

WR Josh Palmer, LAC - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Palmer wasn't particularly impressive against the Chiefs, but he did catch a garbage time score and got enough targets to merit a WR3/Flex start against the Jags in Week 3 if Keenan Allen is out.

WR Curtis Samuel, WAS - Any questions about whether Samuel's Week 1 was a mirage were put to rest when he had another strong game in Week 2, including taking a huge hit to hold onto a touchdown pass. Consider him an everyweek WR3/Flex play who is verging on WR2 value.

WR Deebo Samuel, SF - Samuel's running game role is solid with Elijah Mitchell out and now his value as a receiver is up with Jimmy Garoppolo in at quarterback. He's an everyweek WR2 going forward and could get back to his 2021 WR1 heights.

WR Sterling Shepard, NYG - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - With Kenny Golladay in the witness protection program and Kadarius Toney still rounding into form, Shepard has emerged as the most frequent target in a limited pass offense. He's probably only PPR bye/injury/emergency depth, but Shepard has more value than we thought coming off of an achilles tear.

WR DeVonta Smith, PHI - Week 2 showed us that this isn't going to be a completely A.J. Brown-centric pass offense and there is room for Smith to be startable as an upside WR3/Flex play.

WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, DET - St. Brown equalled Antonio Brown and Michael Thomas by catching 8 or more passes in his eighth straight game. He's a fantasy WR1 who would go in the top 20 picks if we were drafting today.

WR Jaylen Waddle, MIA - Waddle didn't have to rely on a gutsy fourth down call to make his fantasy week vs. Baltimore. He was featured from the word go and ended up scoring the coup de grace touchdown to cap a week-winning stat line in fantasy leagues. He might end up being a fantasy WR1 if Miami continues to checkmate opposing defenses.

WR Jameson Williams, DET - (waiver wire: 1% if bench size allows) - Watching the Lions offense hum for the second straight week should have us excited about Williams eventual return. He'll be the team's top deep threat and should see a lot of single coverage. If your bench size allows you to carry him for a month plus without losing a lot of waiver wire opportunity, pounce.

WR Mike Williams, LAC - Williams dispelled any worries about his quiet Week 1 and Justin Herbert spreading the ball around with a strong Week 2 that included multiple highlights. When Keenan Allen is ready to play, that will lower Williams floor, but his ceiling still makes him an everyweek start.

WR Garrett Wilson, NYJ - (waiver wire: 50+%) - Wilson was electric against the Browns and appeared to be the top target any time he was on the field. The Jets pass offense will be prone to ups and downs when Zach Wilson returns, but the #10 pick's talent looks to be difficult to slow down. Spend big if he was dropped after Week 1.

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Wide Receiver Downgrade

WR Davante Adams, LV - After Week 1 it looked like Adams and his college quarterback Derek Carr were going to have a two-man pitch-and-catch game like he had with Aaron Rodgers. The Cardinals of all defenses took Adams away and forced Carr to throw elsewhere. Adams is still a strong WR1 for fantasy, but this game dampened hopes that he could contend to be THE fantasy WR1.

WR Robbie Anderson, CAR - (waiver wire: DROP IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES) - One week after reeling in a 75-yard score from Baker Mayfield, Anderson's most memorable play was a costly fumble early in the game that led to a Giants field goal. He's only bye/injury/emergency depth at best and not worth carrying in short bench leagues.

WR D.J. Chark, DET - (waiver wire: DROP FOR 5-10% OR HIGHER) - Chark was third in snaps among Lions receivers behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Josh Reynolds and put up a goose egg. The Lions offense is good, but it can probably only support St. Brown's value from week-to-week even though Chark gave us hope with a decent Week 1. He can be dropped for the better Week 2 waiver wire options.

WR Romeo Doubs, GB - (waiver wire: DROP) - The door has closed on Doubs potential early season value growth with the return of Allen Lazard. We may come back to him later this year if injuries strike the Packers passing game.

WR Mike Evans, TB - Evans has been suspended for Week 3 for his role in a fight with the Saints. He will appeal, so check back on his status before benching him. If he sits, at least he'll get to rest his hamstring issue.

WR Justin Jefferson, MIN - Jefferson is still one of the most valuable players in fantasy football and worth whatever pick you paid for him, but Week 2 brought to a screeching halt the visions of him marauding through the league this year on the shoulders of an improved offense. He should be fine, but expectations have lowered a little bit.

WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN - Jeudy left the Week 2 game with a shoulder injury and is day-to-day. Consider him questionable at best for the matchup with the 49ers.

WR Jarvis Landry, NO - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Landry didn't have as big a role in Week 2 as the Saints emphasized Chris Olave in the downfield passing game. He should have a better outlook against the Panthers this week and is worth holding as bye/injury/emergency depth.

WR Darnell Mooney, CHI - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Mooney is basically getting cardio in playing for a Bears offense that doesn't seem to want to pass downfield. He shouldn't be dropped, but can't be started at this point.

WR D.J. Moore, CAR - Moore caught a touchdown and helped set it up with his biggest gain of the day, but that was about all he did on the afternoon. It's clear at this point that Baker Mayfield is not going to boost his value, and he might be back for Moore's fantasy outlook. Consider Moore at WR3/Flex against the Saints.

WR Elijah Moore, NYJ - Moore was overshadowed by #10 pick Garrett Wilson in a development that casts more doubt on whether he'll be a reliable fantasy receiver this year. Consider him a what the heck flex against the Bengals.

WR K.J. Osborn, MIN - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Osborn got little opportunity despite the pass heavy game script for the Vikings. Irv Smith was favored as the #2 target in the offense instead, but was inefficient on his targets. If Osborn doesn't come through against the Lions this week, it will be time to drop him.

WR DeVante Parker, NE - (waiver wire: DROP) - After the Patriots gave up draft capital for Parker and he generated hype this offseason, it was actually Nelson Agholor who had the huge contested catch score that Parker was supposed to provide. He's droppable in typical leagues.

WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, CLE - (waiver wire: DROP) - Peoples-Jones was Jacoby Brissett's favorite target in Week 1 and he didn't catch a ball in Week 2. He did almost catch his only target for a spectacular short touchdown, but that's not enough to justify carrying him in typical leagues.

WR Kyle Philips, TEN - (waiver wire: DROP) - The Titans needed the rookie to come up big to hang with the Bills and he did anything but, fumbling a punt and having little impact on offense. He can be dropped in redraft leagues.

WR George Pickens, PIT - (waiver wire: DROP) - It's just painful to roster Pickens at this point. He isn't going to amount to anything for fantasy this year without a quarterback change and that could be at least two months away given Mike Tomlin's conservative nature.

WR JuJu Smith-Schuster, KC - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Smith-Schuster came crashing back to earth in a game where the volume and type of usage he got was troubling for fantasy teams. He's still a WR3/Flex against the reeling Colts who gave up two scores to Christian Kirk from the slot, but if he's a dud in Week 3, he'll be relegated to our benches.

WR Kadarius Toney, NYG - (waiver wire: HOLD EXCEPT IN SHORT BENCH LEAGUES) - Toney at least was on the field vs. the Panthers, and Kenny Golladay's disappearance will help create opportunity in the Giants wide receiver corps, but Toney needs to get healthy and get out of the doghouse to have a fantasy impact. His talent is tough to drop, but you have to have long benches to justify holding him.

WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, KC - (waiver wire: DROP) - We have already moved on from Valdes-Scantling as a fantasy starter. If he and Patrick Mahomes II can't get anything going in the deep passing game, he might end up worth less than Justin Watson, who had a long score in Week 2.

WR Christian Watson, GB - (waiver wire: DROP) - The return of Allen Lazard pushed Watson down to the bottom of the wide receiver pecking order. He can be dropped like the possible 75-yard score that went through his hands in Week 1.

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Tight End Upgrade

TE Mark Andrews, BAL - After a ho-hum Week 1, Andrews had a big Week 2 as Lamar Jackson carried the offense with his arm. He's back to being the clear #2 overall tight end in fantasy.

TE Tyler Conklin, NYJ - (waiver wire: 1%) - Conklin had his second straight serviceable week at tight end while C.J. Uzomah sits. As long as Uzomah is out for Week 3 against the Bengals, you can plug Conklin in to your tight end position if your drafted plans aren't doing it for you.

TE Evan Engram, JAX - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Engram was used more in Week 2 and even though his targets are short, his usage and the quality of the Jaguars pass offense will be enough to put him in consideration as a starting tight end in what is shaking up at yet another rough year for fantasy production at the position.

TE Zach Ertz, ARI - Ertz was healthier this week and was Kyler Murray's most trusted target against the Raiders. He'll be a solid TE1 against the Titans and must start at least until DeAndre Hopkins returns in Week 7.

TE Gerald Everett, LAC - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Everett was the target on the 99-yard pick six that turned the game, but he was asking out after making a nice gain to set up the goal line opportunity. Donald Parham's injury has opened up a chance for Everett to become a core part of the passing game. He'll be a good play in Week 3 against the Jaguars if Keenan Allen can't play.

TE Mike Gesicki, MIA - (waiver wire: 5-10%) - Gesicki climbed the ladder for a highlight reel touchdown catch, but was otherwise quiet again in Week 2. He was used more as a receiver and the Dolphins offense could be one of the best fantasy passing attacks in the league, so it's worth considering Gesicki if you don't have a trusted option at tight end.

TE Tyler Higbee, LAR - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Higbee is not going away as a dedicated target in the Rams pass offense. Perhaps that could change when Van Jefferson is healthy enough to play, but for now, you definitely trust Higbee against the Cardinals next week.

TE Juwan Johnson, NO - (waiver wire: 3-5%) - Johnson didn't have a massive game against the Bucs, but he was the clear top receiving tight end and it looks like this team will rely on the passing game more than the running game going forward. Johnson is at least worth picking up to see if he develops a connection with Jameis Winston if you haven't solved your tight end woes yet.

TE George Kittle, SF - Kittle didn't play in Week 2, but his value is still up on the Trey Lance injury. He was pushing to play, so expect him back against the Broncos this week, a defense that tends to have trouble covering tight ends.

TE Isaiah Likely, BAL - (waiver wire: 1%) - The Ravens stuck with Likely as he put up a respectable 4-43 line on only 21 snaps. He could become fantasy relevant with an injury to either of the top two targets in the Ravens offense and might not even need that with the Ravens shaping up as a pass-heavy offense (for them) for now.

TE Irv Smith, MIN - (waiver wire: 10-20%) - Smith got a ton of targets and could have had the biggest week of any tight end so far this year if he hadn't dropped a well-thrown deep ball. Maybe this is the new game plan, but maybe this was an audition for Smith to play a bigger role that had mixed results. Still, for fantasy, he is in the low TE1 ranks with room to grow.

TE Logan Thomas, WAS - (waiver wire: 7-15%) - Thomas scored and should benefit from a Commanders pass offense that has three quality wide receivers. He should be in lineups a low-end TE1 against the Eagles this week.

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Tight End Downgrade

TE Noah Fant, SEA - (waiver wire: DROP) - Fant just isn't going to be a featured part of the pass offense for Seattle. The team requested him in the Russell Wilson trade, but they don't see him as especially worthy of a large share of targets in the offense. He can be dropped across redraft formats.

TE T.J. Hockenson, DET - Hockenson looked stiff and clunky against the Commanders and he's only on the fringe of startable fantasy TE1's right now. Hopefully teams will sell out more to neutralize Amon-Ra St. Brown and Hockenson can have his production lifted by the rising tide of the Lions offense.

TE Cole Kmet, CHI - (waiver wire: DROP) - Kmet was kept out of the box score for the second straight week. If you haven't dropped him yet, you know what to do.

TE Albert Okwuegbunam, DEN - (waiver wire: DROP) - One week after he put up a strong second half, Okwuegbunam was a forgotten man vs. Houston. The carousel of pick up and drop is turning for the marginal options at tight end.

TE Kyle Pitts, ATL - We're two weeks in and Pitts fantasy production is just slightly over taking a zero at tight end. We have to stick with him against Seattle, who allowed George Kittle replacement Ross Dwelley to score on a busted coverage, but if it doesn't turn around soon, we might even ponder benching Pitts.

TE Dalton Schultz, DAL - (waiver wire: HOLD) - Schultz left the Week 2 game with a knee injury. It's believed that he avoided a serious injury, but consider Schultz questionable at best for Week 3 against the Giants.