Top Waiver Wire Picks for Week 4: Elevating Your Fantasy Football Roster with Crucial Additions

September 22, 2025

Fantasy football managers are constantly seeking an edge, and the waiver wire often provides the key to success. Following a whirlwind Week 3 filled with surprising outcomes and impactful performances, several players have emerged as compelling additions to rosters. With bye weeks looming, securing depth and potential starters is more crucial than ever. This report details players rostered in 60% or fewer leagues that could make a important difference in the coming weeks.

Quarterback Options to Watch

The Quarterback landscape shifted dramatically this week,with a couple of veteran signal-callers exceeding expectations. Identifying these emerging talents can provide a ample boost to fantasy teams.

Daniel Jones,Indianapolis Colts (29.7% Rostered)

Daniel Jones is flourishing in Indianapolis,leading the Colts to a 3-0 record. He showcased a solid performance against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, completing 18 of 25 passes for 228 yards and a touchdown. The three-touchdown performance by Jonathan Taylor alleviated pressure on Jones, contributing to a stellar team victory. He finished Sunday as the No. 2 fantasy quarterback with 68.1 points, a result few anticipated.

Week 4 Matchup: @ Los Angeles Rams, 4:05 p.m. ET

Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders (19.9% Rostered)

Despite a team loss, Geno Smith delivered a strong performance for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Washington Commanders. The veteran threw for 289 yards and three touchdowns, earning 26.1 fantasy points. While the Raiders’ offensive line remains a concern, Smith has demonstrated he can still be a viable fantasy option.

Week 4 Matchup: vs. Chicago Bears, 4:25 p.m. ET

Running Backs Rising to the Occasion

Injuries and unexpected opportunities have created compelling running back waiver wire possibilities. Identifying potential breakout players is vital for maintaining a competitive roster.

Trey Benson, arizona Cardinals (53.8% Rostered)

The Arizona Cardinals faced a setback with James Conner’s ankle injury during their game against the san Francisco 49ers. Benson stepped into the starting role and is now poised to receive a significant workload. Currently rostered in roughly 54% of leagues, Benson is a high-priority waiver wire target.

Week 4 Matchup: vs. Seattle Seahawks, 8:15 p.m. ET (Thursday Night)

Jeremy McNichols, washington Commanders (1.4% Rostered)

Following Austin Ekeler’s Achilles injury, Jeremy McNichols seized an opportunity with the Washington Commanders. He led the team in rushing with four carries for 78 yards and a touchdown in the victory over the Raiders, showcasing explosive potential.

Week 4 Matchup: @ Atlanta Falcons, 1 p.m. ET

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends Making Waves

Identifying emerging pass-catchers and reliable tight ends can provide consistent points and a competitive advantage.

Tre Tucker, las Vegas Raiders (2.9% Rostered)

Tre Tucker had a breakout performance against the Commanders, catching eight of nine targets for 145 yards and three touchdowns, totaling 40.9 fantasy points. A growing rapport with Geno Smith positions Tucker as a potential top pass-catching option.

week 4 Matchup: vs. Chicago Bears, 4:25 p.m. ET

Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles Chargers (28.7% Rostered)

Quentin Johnston continues to emerge as a legitimate threat for the Los Angeles Chargers. He recorded six receptions for 89 yards against the Denver Broncos, ranking among the league leaders in receiving yards on Sunday. With Justin Herbert consistently targeting him, Johnston offers significant upside.

Week 4 Matchup: @ New York Giants, 1 p.m.ET

Hunter Henry, New England Patriots (48.5% Rostered)

Despite the New England Patriots’ loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Hunter Henry was a standout performer. He led all tight ends in receiving, scoring two touchdowns and amassing 90 yards on eight receptions. He’s quickly become Drake Maye’s favorite target.

Week 4 Matchup: vs.Carolina Panthers, 1 p.m.ET

Chig Okonkwo, Tennessee Titans (22.2% rostered)

Chig okonkwo led the Tennessee Titans in receiving against the Indianapolis colts, with five receptions for 66 yards.His increasing role in the offense suggests he could become a valuable asset as rookie quarterback Cam Ward grows more cozy.

Week 4 Matchup: @ Houston Texans, 1 p.m. ET

Player	Position	Rostered (%)	Week 4 Matchup
Daniel Jones	QB	29.7	@ Los Angeles Rams
Geno Smith	QB	19.9	vs. Chicago Bears
Trey Benson	RB	53.8	vs. Seattle Seahawks
Jeremy McNichols	RB	1.4	@ Atlanta Falcons
Tre Tucker	WR	2.9	vs. Chicago Bears

The fantasy football landscape is dynamic. Player performance, injuries, and coaching decisions can dramatically impact a player’s value. Regularly monitoring the waiver wire is essential for maintaining a competitive edge. Remember to consider not only a player’s recent performance but also their upcoming schedule and potential role within their team’s offense.

did You Know? Teams on bye weeks can create unexpected opportunities for players on other rosters. don’t hesitate to target those potential fill-ins.

Pro Tip: Prioritize players with favorable matchups in the coming weeks. A difficult schedule can significantly limit a player’s fantasy output.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fantasy Football waiver Wire

• What is a waiver wire? A system where teams can claim available players who are not currently rostered in a league.
• How does the waiver wire process work? Typically,teams submit bids for players,and the highest bidder acquires the player.
• what is a “handcuff” in fantasy football? A backup running back who would likely become the starter if the primary running back is injured.
• Should I prioritize quarterbacks on the waiver wire? Only if your starting quarterback is injured or underperforming, as quality QB options are frequently enough readily available.
• How significant is a player’s matchup? Extremely important. A favorable matchup can significantly boost a player’s fantasy potential.
• What does ‘rostered percentage’ mean? this indicates the percentage of leagues a player is currently on a roster.
• Is it better to add a player with high potential or a reliable floor? It depends on your team’s needs. If you need a high-risk, high-reward player, go for potential. If you need stability,choose a reliable option.

Are you confident in your waiver wire strategy this week? which of these players do you think will have the biggest impact? share your thoughts and discuss your picks in the comments below!

what are the key factors to consider when evaluating running back handcuff options on the waiver wire?

Running Backs: Addressing the RB Landscape

the running back position is always volatile, making the waiver wire a crucial hunting ground.Identifying potential breakout players and handcuff options is key to fantasy success.

* jaylen Warren (Pittsburgh Steelers): With Najee Harris showing signs of wear and tear, Warren is a prime handcuff and potential flex play. His efficiency when given opportunities makes him a high-priority add in all formats. Keywords: Jaylen Warren, Najee Harris, Steelers, RB waiver wire, handcuff running back.

* tyjae Spears (Dallas Cowboys): Spears is emerging as a critically important part of the Cowboys’ backfield rotation. Monitor his snap count; increased usage translates to fantasy relevance. Keywords: Tyjae Spears, Cowboys, RB waiver wire, breakout running back.

* Emari Demercado (Arizona Cardinals): With James Conner’s injury history,Demercado becomes an immediate add. He’s shown flashes of potential and could be a valuable asset if Conner misses time.Keywords: Emari Demercado, James Conner, Cardinals, injury replacement, RB waiver wire.

Wide Receivers: Finding Hidden Gems

Wide receiver depth is paramount in fantasy football. Don’t hesitate to scoop up players with upside,even if they’re currently buried on the depth chart.

* Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Doubs is starting to build a rapport with Jordan Love. His size and athleticism make him a red-zone threat. Keywords: Romeo doubs, Green Bay Packers, WR waiver wire, sleeper wide receiver.

* Rashee Rice (Kansas City Chiefs): Rice is slowly earning Patrick Mahomes’ trust. He’s a long-term investment with significant upside in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense. Keywords: Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, WR waiver wire, rookie receiver.

* Parris Campbell (New York giants): Campbell is seeing increased targets with the Giants’ receiving corps struggling. He could become a reliable option in PPR formats. Keywords: Parris Campbell,New York Giants,PPR,WR waiver wire,target share.

Tight Ends: Streaming for Success

Tight end is a notoriously unpredictable position. Focus on streaming options with favorable matchups or emerging talent.

* Juwan Johnson (New Orleans Saints): Johnson has the potential to be a red-zone target for Derek Carr. Monitor his usage in the coming weeks. Keywords: juwan Johnson, New Orleans Saints, TE waiver wire, red zone target.

* Luke Musgrave (Green Bay Packers): Musgrave is a rookie with a high ceiling. He’s still developing, but his athleticism and receiving ability make him a worthwhile gamble.Keywords: Luke Musgrave, Green Bay Packers, rookie TE, TE waiver wire, upside potential.

* Gerald Everett (Los Angeles Chargers): Everett is a consistent target in the Chargers’ offense. He provides a safe floor in PPR leagues. keywords: Gerald Everett, Los Angeles chargers, PPR, TE waiver wire, consistent performer.

Quarterbacks: Deep league Options

In deeper leagues, finding a viable quarterback on the waiver wire can be a game-changer.

* Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love is showing advancement each week. His ability to make plays with his arm and legs makes him a sneaky good option. Keywords: Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers, QB waiver wire, streaming quarterback.

* Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts): while currently injured, Richardson’s dual-threat ability makes him a must-add stash when healthy. keywords: Anthony Richardson, Indianapolis Colts, dual-threat QB, QB waiver wire, injury stash.

Waiver Wire Strategy: Beyond the Names

Successfully navigating the waiver wire requires more than just identifying potential stars.

* Prioritize Matchups: Target players facing favorable defenses, particularly those struggling against their position.

* Understand Your League Settings: PPR,standard,and dynasty leagues all require different waiver wire strategies.

* Monitor Injury Reports: Stay up-to-date on injuries to identify potential replacements and handcuff opportunities.

* Don’t Be Afraid to Drop: Cutting underperforming players is crucial to making room for potential breakouts.

* Utilize Waiver Wire Rankings: Several websites offer waiver wire rankings to help you prioritize your targets. (e.g., ESPN, CBS Sports, FantasyPros). Keywords: waiver wire strategy, fantasy football tips, league settings, injury reports.

Case Study: The kenneth Gainwell Example (2023)

In Week 4 of the 2023 season, Kenneth Gainwell was a relatively unknown running back on the Philadelphia Eagles. A late-round draft pick, he became a valuable fantasy asset after an injury to Miles Sanders. Those who proactively