As fantasy football managers prepare for Week 10 of the NFL season, key injuries and bye weeks have created opportunities for last-minute player pickups. With prominent quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Dak Prescott, and Joe Flacco unavailable this week, many teams are searching for viable replacements to fill gaps in their lineups. Here are several recommended players, focusing on those rostered in fewer than 50% of ESPN leagues.
Quarterback Options
With the quarterback landscape shifting due to bye weeks and injuries, several players stand out as potential pickups.
J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings, currently rostered in 42.6% of leagues, demonstrated his dual-threat capability in Week 9 against the Lions, scoring 18.92 points. Despite completing only 14 passes for 143 yards, he threw two touchdowns and added a rushing score. Facing a Ravens defense that blitzes at a 29.6% rate, McCarthy’s ability to evade pressure could make him a valuable asset in deeper leagues.
Another option is Jacoby Brissett of the Arizona Cardinals, who is rostered in only 15.5% of leagues. He produced 24.84 points in his last game against the Cowboys and has consistently scored over 19 points in his past three outings. Although the matchup against Seattle is challenging, Brissett’s recent performance suggests he can lead the Cardinals’ passing game effectively.
Just above the roster cutoff, Sam Darnold of the Seattle Seahawks, now at 50.4% rostered, had an impressive showing with 27.2 fantasy points in Week 9 against Washington. His accuracy, completing 87.5% of his passes, coupled with four touchdown throws, highlights his potential for continued success, especially with the addition of Rashid Shaheed to his receiving corps.
Wide Receiver and Tight End Picks
In the tight end category, Colston Loveland of the Chicago Bears is a noteworthy candidate, currently rostered in 40.2% of leagues. He notched a career-high 29.8 points in Week 9, showcasing his versatility by running routes from various alignments. This adaptability in the Bears’ offense could lead to more favorable matchups against the Giants.
For deeper leagues, Luke Musgrave of the Green Bay Packers, with a roster percentage of 12.2%, is stepping into the top tight end role following an injury to Tucker Kraft. He caught all three of his targets for 34 yards in his last outing and could see increased involvement in the passing game against the Eagles.
On the wide receiver front, Olamide Zaccheaus of the Bears, rostered in 4.9% of leagues, is emerging as a playmaker. He scored 17.8 points last week and has consistently seen at least seven targets, indicating his growing role in the offense.
Additionally, Darius Slayton of the New York Giants, with 26.1% rostered, displayed his potential with five receptions for 62 yards in Week 9. The Bears’ secondary has struggled, making Slayton a candidate to exploit that weakness. Likewise, Alec Pierce of the Indianapolis Colts, rostered in 30.1%, is averaging over 20 yards per catch and could prove effective against the Falcons.
Running Back and Defense Options
In the running back category, Devin Singletary of the Giants is showing promise with a roster percentage of 28.4%. He outperformed teammate Tyrone Tracy Jr. in their last game, gaining 43 yards on eight carries. This week, he faces a Bears defense that has struggled, making him a deeper-league option worth considering.
Another potential pickup is Isaiah Davis of the New York Jets, currently rostered in 10.7% of leagues. Despite a tough matchup against the Browns, who rank second in defense against running backs, Davis has proven his worth as a pass-catching back, making him a viable option in deeper formats.
For defense, the Carolina Panthers, with 24.7% rostered, present an enticing matchup against rookie quarterback Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints. The Panthers’ defense has been effective, scoring points and generating takeaways in recent games, making them a solid start this week.
As fantasy managers navigate the complexities of Week 10, these strategic pickups could provide crucial support in their quest for success.
