Drake Maye‘s debut in Week 6 offered hope of a brighter future in New England for both the near and long term, and his teammates look primed for a bump in production. This means you’ll find a few Patriots among other familiar names who have been waiting for their opportunity in this week’s edition of the waiver wire column. Percentages are based on ESPN’s rostered player data.
Quarterbacks
Drake Maye, New England Patriots (3.8%)
Maye fared better than expected in his first career start, tossing three touchdowns and 243 yards against the Texans. While Maye takes chances and turns the ball over, it’s not necessarily a bad trait for a fantasy quarterback, as those mistakes lend themselves to more pass-heavy game scripts. This week, Maye and the Patriots get a great matchup against the reeling Jaguars, who own the worst passing defense in the league. Maye is worth a starting look if needed in Week 7.
Andy Dalton, Carolina Panthers (6.1%)
Aside from a stinker against the Bears’ tough pass defense, Dalton has offered solid starting quarterback play for both the Panthers and fantasy managers. This week, the Dalton faces the Commanders and should have little trouble dicing up their lousy defense.
Running Backs
Kimani Vidal, Los Angeles Chargers (2.3%)
With Gus Edwards put on IR late last week, Vidal saw his first action of the season in Week 6 and promptly found the end zone on his first career touch, a 38-yard reception. Vidal is now just a J.K. Dobbins injury away from finding himself in the starting role for the Chargers. Vidal was hyperproductive during his college days at Troy, and given Dobbins’ extensive injury history, Vidal is a must-add if available.
Dameon Pierce, Houston Texans (3.2%)
Pierce is one of the best fantasy handcuffs and offers standalone value at times thanks to the Texans’ commitment to the run game. After enjoying a solid 2022 season, Pierce regressed in 2023 and lost the starting job to Devin Singletary. He’s looked like a reformed player in 2024, though, and should hang onto the backup role moving forward.
Ray Davis, Buffalo Bills (10.2%)
The backup role behind James Cook appeared murky before Monday night’s game against the Jets, but things cleared up quickly with Davis seeing 20 carries for 97 yards and recording 55 yards on three receptions as well. While James Cook could return in Week 7, the Bills’ backup job holds plenty of contingency value, and Davis should be scooped up if available.
Wide Receivers
Romeo Doubs, Green Bay Packers (29.7%)
Sunday’s game against the Cardinals was a textbook example of a squeaky wheel game, as Jordan Love made a point to target Doubs, especially in the red zone. While Doubs’ production was mostly carried by touchdowns, Dontayvion Wicks looks like he’ll miss time due to a shoulder injury. This will likely give Doubs more opportunity alongside Jayden Reed and Christian Watson in the meantime.
Demario Douglas, New England Patriots (21.1%)
Douglas was Drake Maye’s favorite target in the rookie quarterback’s starting debut, leading the team in targets, receptions, and yards while adding a touchdown. Douglas has earned nine targets in three of his past four contests, and he’ll look to continue his recent success against the Jaguars’ impoverished defense in Week 7.
Kayshon Boutte, New England Patriots (0.1%)
The former five-star recruit has had a quiet pro career, but Boutte has quietly earned increased playing time over the past few weeks and hauled in a deep touchdown in Week 6. With Ja’Lynn Polk struggling recently, Boutte and DeMario Douglas look like the top wide receivers to own in New England. Maye’s injection into the offense gives both a higher ceiling on a weekly basis.
Tre Tucker, Las Vegas Raiders (19.5%)
Tucker stands to benefit from Davante Adams‘ departure, as he’ll become the No. 3 target behind Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers. The floor is low given the state of the Raiders’ quarterback position, so Tucker should only find starting lineups when he has a favorable matchup.
Tight Ends
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots (18.3%)
Henry enjoyed Drake Maye’s debut, catching three of five targets for 41 yards and a score. With more upside injected into the Patriots’ offense, Henry is the best bet for teams in need of a tight end going forward.
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