As the fantasy football season winds down, Week 17 presents a critical opportunity for managers still in contention. Whether you’re playing for a championship, a consolation prize, or simply trying to finish strong, the waiver wire remains a valuable tool. Injuries, breakout performances, and favorable matchups can all create opportunities for savvy managers to gain an edge. Here are the top waiver wire targets for NFL Week 17, broken down by position.
Quarterbacks
- Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers) Purdy continues to impress as the 49ers’ starting quarterback. With a reliable arsenal of weapons, including Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Brandon Aiyuk, he’s consistently delivering solid performances. In Week 17, the 49ers face a vulnerable defense, making Purdy a strong streaming option for those in need of a quarterback.
- Gardner Minshew (Philadelphia Eagles) If Jalen Hurts remains sidelined, Minshew is a high-upside option. He showed his potential in Week 16 with a strong outing against a tough opponent. With the Eagles boasting one of the league’s best offenses, Minshew could put up big numbers against a defense susceptible to the pass.
Running Backs
- Tyler Allgeier (Atlanta Falcons) Allgeier has emerged as a key player in Atlanta’s offense, showcasing his ability to handle a significant workload. He’s seen an increase in touches and is making the most of them, delivering consistent fantasy production. With the Falcons committed to their run game, Allgeier is a must-add for managers in need of running back depth.
- Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers) Hubbard is splitting work in Carolina’s backfield but has been productive enough to warrant consideration. His ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air makes him a valuable flex option, particularly in matchups against teams that struggle to defend versatile running backs.
- Zack Moss (Indianapolis Colts) With Jonathan Taylor out for the season, Moss has taken on a larger role in the Colts’ backfield. Though the offense has struggled, volume is king in fantasy football, and Moss is getting plenty of it. He’s a serviceable option for managers desperate for running back help.
Wide Receivers
- Jahan Dotson (Washington Commanders) Dotson has been on fire recently, showing great chemistry with his quarterback and consistently finding the end zone. As a talented rookie, he’s become a reliable option in Washington’s passing attack. He’s a strong play in Week 17, especially in leagues where touchdowns are heavily rewarded.
- Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers) With Christian Watson nursing an injury, Doubs could see an increased role in the Packers’ offense. Aaron Rodgers trusts him, and Doubs has shown flashes of big-play ability throughout the season. Against a defense vulnerable to wide receivers, he’s a sneaky pickup with upside.
- Isaiah Hodgins (New York Giants) Hodgins has quietly emerged as one of Daniel Jones’ favorite targets. His ability to make plays in the red zone gives him significant fantasy value, especially in deeper leagues. The Giants face a favorable matchup in Week 17, making Hodgins a viable flex option.
Tight Ends
- Tyler Conklin (New York Jets) Conklin has seen consistent involvement in the Jets’ passing game, particularly in red-zone situations. With the tight end position often a fantasy headache, Conklin’s steady target share and touchdown upside make him a solid streaming option.
- Juwan Johnson (New Orleans Saints) Johnson continues to deliver as a touchdown-dependent tight end option. While his volume may not be high, his knack for finding the end zone keeps him fantasy-relevant, particularly in leagues where tight ends receive bonus points for scoring.
Defenses/Special Teams
- Jacksonville Jaguars The Jaguars have been on a roll defensively, creating turnovers and putting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In Week 17, they face a struggling offense, making them a top streaming option for managers looking to secure points from their defense.
- New York Giants The Giants have a favorable matchup in Week 17 against a team prone to turnovers. Their pass rush and secondary have been solid, making them a sneaky option for managers in need of a defensive boost.
Kickers
- Cameron Dicker (Los Angeles Chargers) Dicker has been reliable all season and plays in an offense that consistently moves the ball. In Week 17, he’s a great option for managers looking for a high-floor kicker with the potential for multiple field goal opportunities.
- Greg Joseph (Minnesota Vikings) Joseph has been clutch in recent weeks, and the Vikings’ high-scoring offense ensures plenty of opportunities for points. He’s a safe option for managers looking to secure consistent production from the kicker position.
Final Thoughts
As you make your waiver wire decisions, be sure to consider your league format, scoring system, and positional needs. With only one or two games left in the fantasy season, every point matters. Stay proactive, monitor injury updates, and don’t hesitate to make bold moves to secure the win. Week 17 is your chance to leave it all on the field—both for your fantasy team and your bragging rights.
