As NFL Week 7 draws nearer, fantasy football managers are grappling with injuries and bye weeks that leave their rosters in need of fresh legs at the wide receiver position. Searching through the waiver wire can provide some hidden gems ready to step up during these crucial games. Here are four wide receivers that could potentially bolster your lineup at the last minute.
Christian Kirk: A Potential Return for the 49ers
After dealing with injuries, the San Francisco 49ers find themselves in a favorable position to utilize players who might otherwise be overlooked in fantasy circles. Christian Kirk, who has missed time this season, is squarely in line for a potential return.
With key players like Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel out, the 49ers will benefit from an additional target for quarterback Brock Purdy. Kirk has been on injured reserve, but his full participation in practice this week raises hopes among fantasy enthusiasts that he could make a timely comeback.
Kirk played in 13 games last season and has shown his capability to perform well when healthy. Currently, he’s on the radar of only 15.2% of fantasy managers on ESPN, although that number has increased by 1.9% this week. If Kirk is cleared to play and receives significant snaps, he could be a valuable asset in Week 7.
Keenan Allen: A Veteran's Steady Presence
Keenan Allen may not shine bright every week, but he remains a reliable choice for those seeking stability in their fantasy lineups. Despite the Indianapolis Colts’ inconsistency, Allen has proven to be a consistent contributor.
This season, he’s had four performances exceeding nine fantasy points in PPR leagues. Earlier this year, he made an impact against the Houston Texans with six receptions for 63 yards and a touchdown. More recently, he tallied eight catches for 82 yards against the Tennessee Titans.
As the Colts gear up for a matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, Allen's target share will be crucial for the passing game. While it may be overly ambitious to expect a breakout game, a solid performance yielding over 10 PPR points is within reach if Allen continues to garner attention from quarterbacks. Currently, he boasts a roster percentage of 43.4% on ESPN.
Jaylin Noel: Emerging Talent in Houston
Rookie Jaylin Noel has been turning heads in the fantasy community with his recent performances. The Houston Texans' receiver has delivered touchdowns in consecutive games, showcasing his potential as a streaming option.
In his last outing, Noel caught four passes for 107 yards and a touchdown, following a previous week where he recorded five receptions for 41 yards and another score. His latest showing indicates that he can turn limited opportunities into substantial fantasy points.
As the Texans look for playmakers to support quarterback C.J. Stroud, Noel is making a case for a more prominent role. He’s currently rostered in 22% of leagues, with that percentage climbing by 3.8% this week. If he continues his upward trajectory, he may soon be a hot commodity on the waiver wire.
Ted Hurst III: A High-Risk, High-Reward Option
Ted Hurst III may represent the biggest risk among these streaming options, but that risk can also result in a rewarding opportunity for those willing to gamble. With Emeka Egbuka sidelined due to injury, Hurst may find himself with increased targets in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' passing attack.
Baker Mayfield's anticipated return should also benefit Hurst, yet his actual production remains uncertain. Despite Chris Godwin Jr.’s contributions not meeting expectations, a window could open for Hurst to make an impact.
With a current roster percentage of just 2% in ESPN leagues—up 1.2% this week—Hurst is a deeper option best suited for those seeking surprise plays in their fantasy rosters. While he comes with uncertainty, his potential involvement against the Carolina Panthers could prove valuable.