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The 4 best WRs to claim off the Week 1 waiver wire

The fantasy football waiver wire is a valuable tool throughout the season, but if your drafted roster has already taken a hit, there is value to be had heading into Week 1. We break down the best wide receivers to consider.

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Gallup runs with the ball against Houston Texans linebacker Peter Kalambayi following a catch in the first quarter during a NFL preseason game at AT&T Stadium on August 24, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

You’ve held your fantasy draft, and with just days remaining before Week 1 kicks off, you’re not exactly feeling your roster. That fourth WR and third RB weren’t what you hoping for when the draft began. Well, there’s no time like the present to fix your mistakes. Let’s look at the top wide receivers still available in more than 30 percent of leagues, based on season-long ownership in CBS Sports leagues as of Sunday, Sept. 1.

Michael Gallup, Dallas Cowboys (57 percent owned)

Gallup was always going to have a big role this season as the No. 2 receiver opposite Amari Cooper in the Dallas offense. But with Ezekiel Elliott still holding out and Cooper dealing with plantar fasciitis, Gallup could be Dak Prescott’s most important weapon in the early part of the season. Gallup has breakout performer written all over him.

Jamison Crowder, New York Jets (44 pct)

Fantasy owners are going to have to accept the truth: the Jets’ offense is not a collection of butt-fumblers anymore. Crowder should thrive in this offense as Sam Darnold’s possession receiver, with defenses naturally concerned with Le’Veon Bell and Robby Anderson. He’ll never be spectacular, but Crowder should put up solid numbers as a No. 3 WR or flex.

Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers (30 pct)

Deebo might be the biggest sleeper selection of the season. As Dante Pettis continues to struggle, Samuel continues to stand out. It might not happen right out of the gate, but don’t be shocked if Samuel becomes the entrenched No. 2 in this offense. Stash now, win later.

Demaryius Thomas, New England Patriots (21 pct)

Josh Gordon’s return to the field in preseason Week 4 got all the headlines, but Thomas got all the touchdowns. Thomas dominated the Giants with a 7-78-2 line, and you know Tom Brady took note. The Patriots released Thomas on Saturday, but re-signed him on Monday when they placed N’Keal Harry on injured reserve. He’s a player to monitor and stash.