Just three weeks remain before the start of the fantasy football postseason. Playoff races and jostling for seeding are heating up, making Week 12 crucial. Whether you’re undefeated or under .500, waiver wire moves made this week could have long-term ramifications.
Regardless of what it is you’re looking for, there are solid options available in most leagues. The question is, how much should managers spend on Week 12’s most enticing waiver wire targets?
Week 12 Fantasy Football FAAB Values
RB Emanuel Wilson, Green Bay Packers
20% FAAB
Green Bay’s 27-20 win over the Giants this weekend came at a cost. Starting running back Josh Jacobs suffered a knee injury; he’s considered day-to-day per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. Right now, there’s a good chance the Pro Bowler misses Sunday’s game vs. the Vikings. Considering how many fantasy teams have leaned on Jacobs, that’s a crushing blow this late in the season. On an otherwise unpredictable Packers offense, the veteran is one of the league’s most consistent rushers.
If Jacobs is out this weekend, backup Emanuel Wilson is poised to take over this backfield. Through ten games, he’s gained 220 rushing yards, 69 receiving yards and one touchdown. Those numbers, while unimpressive, have come in a part-time role. The youngster has the potential for 20+ touches vs. Minnesota; third-stringer Chris Brooks doesn’t pose much of a threat. There’s a decent chance the Packers hold a solid lead against the last-place Vikings as well. For desperate fantasy managers looking for an immediate starter, Wilson is a must-add.
RB Chris Rodriguez, Washington Commanders
15% FAAB
Jayden Daniels is unlikely to return any time soon due to an elbow injury. His absence severely limits Washington’s offense, now led by backup quarterback Marcus Mariota. The Commanders scored just 13 points in Madrid vs. the Dolphins on Sunday. However, one bright spot was Chris Rodriguez. Entering this season, the third-year pro wasn’t seen as much more than backfield depth. However, he’s quickly emerging as the de facto RB1 on this roster. Against Miami, C-Rod handled 15 carries for 79 yards.
Granted, there are a few caveats to Rodriguez’s fantasy football outlook. For starters, there won’t be as many scoring opportunities with Mariota under center. In addition, two other Commanders running backs received 4+ carries on Sunday. However, Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols combined for an inefficient 41 yards on 13 attempts (3.15 YPC). Neither of those two have shown anything in recent weeks to suggest a larger workload. Washington has a bye this week, making Rodriguez a long-term stash. However, there’s a clear path towards weekly flex production for the 25-year-old.
WR Michael Wilson, Arizona Cardinals
12-15% FAAB
Marvin Harrison Jr. was sidelined last week due to appendicitis. In his place, Michael Wilson became a top target for the Cardinals on offense. The wide receiver hauled in a whopping 15 catches for 185 yards against the 49ers on Sunday. That kind of production, even with limited competition, is nothing to sneeze at. There’s the potential for MHJ to miss even more time going forward, giving Wilson WR2-level upside. In four of his last five outings, the Stanford alum has recorded at least 40 yards.
This coming Sunday, Arizona will take on a mediocre Jaguars secondary. This season, Jacksonville has allowed the seventh-most passing yards per game to opponents (236.9). In comparison, the Cardinals lead football with 37.5 pass attempts per game. Other than tight end Trey McBride, there aren’t many quality pass catchers on this roster. That should allow Wilson to deliver another double-digit fantasy performance – assuming Harrison Jr. remains out.
Other names to consider
- Sean Tucker was a monster this weekend, reaching the end zone three times vs. Buffalo. However, starting running back Bucky Irving (shoulder/foot) appears close to making his return. Roster Tucker ASAP, but do so with modest expectations.
- 10% FAAB
- Dalton Schultz keeps finding a way to produce, especially in PPR formats. Against the Titans this weekend, he hauled in six catches for 51 yards. At the tight end position, finding a dependable starter is difficult. In five of his last six games, Houston’s safety blanket has recorded 10+ fantasy points.
- 10% FAAB
- If available, Brock Purdy is someone quarterback-needy teams should consider. We’ve seen the 49ers QB produce in the past, and he enjoys a fantasy-friendly playoff schedule. Sunday’s three-touchdown showing vs. Arizona could be the start of a dominant second half.
- 5% FAAB
