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With Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season almost complete, it’s time to look toward Week 3 of the NFL season. Below, we highlight top waiver and trade targets at running back, wide receiver, tight end, and quarterback based on last week’s performances.
Top Waiver Wire and Trade Targets for Fantasy Football
I use Sleeper app ownership projections, but these numbers may vary. I don’t have a hard threshold for ownership percentages because some of these potential league-winning plays may need to be acquired via trade.
Justin Fields, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers (31.2%)
Fields continues to flash his dual-threat ability, and while the Steelers' offense is still evolving, his rushing production has returned to the forefront of his fantasy value. In Week 2, Fields rushed 12 times for 76 yards, adding solid rushing value that buoys his fantasy floor.
2-0 as Steelers' starter
22 rushing attempts through two games, 2nd among QBs behind Jayden Daniels
Fields' improved passing efficiency (his completion percentage is up 10 points) and his ability to avoid turnovers make him an intriguing pickup. The Steelers offense is still taking shape, but if Fields remains the starter, he has the upside to be a weekly QB1, especially with his running ability.
Quentin Johnston, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (6%)
Johnston has finally begun to show the upside that made him a first-round pick in 2023. After struggling with drops and limited playing time as a rookie, Johnston led the Chargers in targets, yards, and touchdowns in Week 2.
5 receptions, 51 yards, 2 touchdowns on 6 targets in Week 2
Showed improved route running and contested catch ability
As long as Justin Herbert is under center, there will be enough volume for a Chargers receiver to thrive. Johnston’s increased role in the offense, especially in the red zone, makes him a speculative add with massive upside as the season progresses.
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots (24%)
Henry has long been a reliable but overlooked tight end option. In Week 2, he proved why he still deserves attention, leading the Patriots in receiving yards and targets.
8 receptions for 109 yards on 12 targets in Week 2
Patriots' pass game lacks a true WR1, allowing Henry to be the focal point
With the Patriots' wide receivers struggling to dominate targets, Henry could continue to be Mac Jones' go-to option in the passing game. For teams looking for TE stability, Henry is a must-add as a consistent top-10 fantasy option at the position.
Carson Steele, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (1.6%)
With Chiefs starting RB Isiah Pacheco leaving Week 2 in a walking boot and now expected to land on IR, Carson Steele is poised to step into a larger role. While Samaje Perine handles third-down work, Steele is expected to see early-down and goal-line opportunities if Pacheco misses time.
Increased short-yardage and goal-line role in Week 2
Chiefs' run-heavy approach will offer Steele valuable touches
If Pacheco is sidelined, Steele could become the early-down workhorse in Kansas City’s high-powered offense. His value will skyrocket in the short term, making him one of the most important waiver wire targets of the week.