Beat the Waiver Wire: Week 4

Stay ahead of your leaguemates by grabbing potential breakout players from the waiver wire before they are on everyone's radar.

Julia Papworth's Beat the Waiver Wire: Week 4 Julia Papworth Published 09/26/2025

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Here are some players to consider picking up this week, if available, to get ahead of the other managers in your league. These players include potential bye-week fill-ins, players returning from injury, and defenses to consider in advance. Early in the season, this article will also include several rookies who have a good chance to explode later in the year.

Good luck out there, and remember that bye weeks start in Week 5.

Week 4 Byes: None

Beat the Waiver Wire: No-Brainers

In most leagues, these guys aren't available. But if you're fortunate enough to see them on the waiver wire, grab them.

WR Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (76% rostered on Sleeper)

We haven't seen Chris Godwin play football since Week 7 of last year, when he went down with an ankle injury. He wasn't put on the PUP to start the season, so there is a chance he returns this week. He has practiced in a limited fashion, and if your league doesn't have an IR spot, he might be available on waivers.

Beat the Waiver Wire: Quarterbacks

Justin Fields, New York Jets (62% rostered on Sleeper)

Fields didn't play on Sunday due to a concussion he sustained in Week 2, and it is uncertain if he will return this week. No matter, he will eventually be back, and his rushing floor cannot be ignored. The Jets get Dallas in Week 5, and that defense has allowed the third-most yards per game to opposing teams. If Fields starts this week, he is also a great option, playing against Miami, whose secondary has allowed the 9th most adjusted fantasy points to the quarterback position.

Just a reminder to check your waiver wire for: Marcus Mariota (11%), Jaxson Dart (29%)

Beat the Waiver Wire: Running Backs

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