As we head into Week 11, we have a change at running back in Denver and several other running backs worth monitoring who offer big upside down the stretch.

There’s not much out there as far as quarterback and pass-catcher help, but there are always players to take fliers on. As always, I’ll be here every Tuesday with my top waiver adds of the week. Percentages are based on ESPN’s rostered player data.

Quarterbacks

Drake Maye, New England Patriots (11.6%)

If you’re a regular reader of this column you’re likely tired of seeing Maye’s name at the top of the quarterbacks adds, but there aren’t many viable options left, and Maye continues to show promise.

Facing tough defenses in the Jets, Titans, and Bears in his past three contests, Maye registered more turnovers than touchdowns (four to three). His fantasy production, however,  remained respectable thanks to his 165 rushing yards over that span. Now, the schedule opens up as the Patriots get the Rams, Dolphins, and Colts over the next three weeks. Fantasy gamers can turn to Maye in a pinch knowing his legs will keep him from putting up disastrous totals while offering the upside of low-end QB1.

Running Backs

Audric Estime, Denver Broncos (1.1%)

Estime saw 14 of the team’s 17 carries against the Chiefs in Week 10 as former lead back Javonte Williams saw just one carry and two receptions. After the game, head coach Sean Payton said he liked what he saw from Estime and will continue to give the rookie opportunities moving forward. The Broncos’ offense has overcome its early-season struggles and turned the page to competency. This makes Estime a priority add on waivers this week if he’s going to see double-digit touches moving forward.

Trey Benson, Arizona Cardinals (15.9%)

Benson has seen 18 carries over the past two weeks, signaling the Cardinals may be starting to work their Day 2 rookie pick more into the offense. At the very least, Benson has separated himself as the clear No. 2 back on the roster in the event James Conner misses time. Also, the Cardinals’ schedule is mighty friendly down the stretch, further emphasizing Benson’s value as one of the most important handcuffs in fantasy.

Cam Akers, Minnesota Vikings (16.3%)

Aaron Jones picked up a rib injury Sunday against the Jaguars, but it isn’t expected to hold him out of Week 11’s game against the Titans. With Jones out, Akers saw 14 carries and a receptions for 47 yards. While Akers might not offer value this week if Jones is back, he’s the clear No. 2 back on the Vikings, and Aaron Jones has been known to miss time.

Khalil Herbert, Cincinnati Bengals (13.9%)

Herbert saw limited game action just two days after being acquired from the Bears. He failed to record a carry attempt as he fumbled his only chance during the exchange from Joe Burrow. Despite the shaky introduction, he remains a quality back and is one Chase Brown injury away from a full-time role on a red-hot Bengals offense.

Wide Receivers

Ricky Pearsall, San Francisco 49ers (25.0%)

Pearsall has earned consistent looks lately as the No.3 receiver for the 49ers. He’s seen 15 targets over the past three games, and he posted a career-high 73 yards last week while finding the end zone for the first time. The first-round pick will continue seeing playing time with Brandon Aiyuk out for the season. While he won’t score a touchdown every week, he’s a worthwhile add because he’s an improving rookie attached to the 49ers offense.

Kayshon Boutte, New England Patriots (0.4%)

Boutte looks like the top wideout in New England right now, as he was the only receiver to run a route on 100% of the team’s dropbacks Sunday. He’s earned six targets in each of his past three games, and with the Patriots schedule improving, there’s a chance he’ll find more room to operate and turn in better production down the stretch.

Tight Ends

Taysom Hill, New Orleans Saints (35.0%)

Things are looking up for Hill after he posted a season-high 63% route participation rate in Week 10. With Chris Olave and Rasheed Shahid on injured reserve, the Saints have to get creative with their remaining weapons.

Hill is the most unique player in fantasy. He also offers extra touchdown upside, as the team has used him as a gadget player in the red zone. He’s a fantasy cheat code at tight end, so unless your league has specific rules in play for this joker, it’s fair game to add him.

Theo Johnson, New York Giants (2.8%)

Johnson and the Giants are on a bye in Week 11, but the rookie looks like he’s making strides in the pros. He’s seen 16 targets over his past three games and appears to have earned the trust of Daniel Jones. At 6’6 and 259 pounds, Johnson’s athletic scores are off the charts. While he’s a better stash in Dynasty, he could provide quality weeks as he progresses through his rookie season.

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