Week 3 Fantasy Football Tips: Boost Your Team with These Key Pickups!

As we dive into Week 3 of the NFL season, fantasy football managers are grappling with the effects of injuries, performance shifts, and emerging opportunities. The latest injury news, particularly Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco landing on IR with a fibula injury, has sparked a flurry of activity in fantasy leagues. The next few weeks are crucial for making smart pickups and adjustments to your roster. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the waiver wire and make strategic additions to bolster your fantasy team.

Running Backs

Isiah Pacheco Injury: What It Means for Your Fantasy Team

Isiah Pacheco, the Kansas City Chiefs’ promising running back, is expected to land on IR due to a fibula injury suffered in Week 2. The injury occurred in the final minutes of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals, and Pacheco was seen leaving the stadium with a walking boot and crutches. The Chiefs’ head coach, Andy Reid, confirmed that Pacheco would undergo further tests to determine the extent of the injury. The initial reports suggest that Pacheco could be sidelined for more than the minimum four weeks. This opens up a significant opportunity for other running backs in the Chiefs’ backfield.

Carson Steele: The Next Man Up

With Pacheco out, Carson Steele emerges as a strong candidate to lead the Chiefs’ backfield. Steele, an undrafted free agent from UCLA, has demonstrated his capability in early-down and short-yardage situations. Through the first two games of the season, Steele has shown impressive contact balance and leg strength, making the most of every rushing attempt. His solid performance in these critical situations makes him a valuable addition to fantasy rosters.

Kareem Hunt: A Potential Game Changer

The Chiefs are reportedly considering bringing back Kareem Hunt, a familiar face who previously played under Andy Reid. Hunt’s knowledge of Reid’s system could make him an effective short-term solution. However, his role is not yet confirmed, and it’s important to monitor any updates on this situation. If the Chiefs sign Hunt, they may not immediately hand him the starting role, which could limit his immediate fantasy value. For now, Carson Steele remains the preferred option, but Hunt’s potential addition is worth keeping an eye on.

Other Notable Running Backs to Consider

• Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Bucky Irving, currently rostered in 29.5% of ESPN leagues, is worth stashing on your bench. The Buccaneers drafted Irving with the intention of using him alongside Rachaad White. Despite a limited rushing performance against the Detroit Lions, offensive coordinator Liam Coen seems committed to incorporating both backs. Irving could become a valuable asset later in the season, making him a strategic addition to your roster.
• Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys): Rico Dowdle, rostered in 37.3% of leagues, has been more productive than Ezekiel Elliott so far. Both backs have had similar touch counts, but Dowdle’s performance has been more efficient, with better yards per touch and after-the-catch stats. The Cowboys’ offensive line is performing well, ranking eighth in run block win rate. Dowdle’s productivity and potential for increased playtime make him a solid stash option.
• Antonio Gibson (New England Patriots): Antonio Gibson, rostered in 32.3% of leagues, has shown promise with 12 touches in Week 2, resulting in 11.3 fantasy points. While Rhamondre Stevenson remains the primary back, Gibson could become valuable if Stevenson misses time. The Patriots’ heavy reliance on the run makes Gibson a potential asset if Stevenson is unavailable.
• Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans): Dameon Pierce, currently rostered in 2.3% of leagues, is worth monitoring if Joe Mixon faces an extended absence. Pierce missed Week 2 due to a hamstring injury, but if Mixon is sidelined, Pierce could emerge as a key player. His health and the status of Mixon will determine his value in the coming weeks.
• Ty Chandler (Minnesota Vikings): Ty Chandler, rostered in 46.6% of leagues, has provided consistent production and is a solid flex option. Chandler has had double-digit touches in back-to-back games and should continue to play a significant role in the Vikings’ backfield.
• Trey Benson (Arizona Cardinals): Trey Benson, currently rostered in 43.5% of leagues, is a good stash if James Conner misses time. Benson’s potential increased role makes him worth considering, especially if Conner is sidelined.
• Ray Davis (Buffalo Bills): Ray Davis, rostered in 11.4% of leagues, is a stash option in case of an injury to James Cook. With the Bills’ high-scoring offense, Davis could see increased opportunities if Cook is injured.
• Braelon Allen (New York Jets): Braelon Allen, currently rostered in 7.4% of leagues, is worth stashing due to his future potential. His impressive performance in Week 2 suggests he could be a valuable player down the line.

Quarterbacks

If Justin Fields keeps winning, will he keep starting for the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Justin Fields (Pittsburgh Steelers): A Solid QB3 Pickup

Justin Fields, currently rostered in 32.0% of leagues, is a dual-threat quarterback with significant fantasy potential. Despite the Steelers’ offensive struggles, Fields’ dual-threat ability makes him a solid QB3 pickup for superflex leagues. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs adds value, and his favorable upcoming schedule enhances his potential as a useful asset.

Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints): Thriving Under New System

Derek Carr, rostered in 21.6% of leagues, has been performing well under the new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Carr has already thrown three 50-plus yard touchdowns this season, showcasing his big-play ability. With a favorable matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3, Carr is poised for another strong performance. He is a reliable starter for those in need of quarterback help.

Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks): Reliable Midrange QB2

Geno Smith, currently rostered in 16.3% of leagues, has scored well in recent games and has a favorable Week 3 matchup. Smith’s performance, combined with the presence of talented receivers like DK Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Tyler Lockett, makes him a solid midrange QB2. His consistent scoring and favorable matchup make him a valuable addition.

Wide Receivers

Demarcus Robinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential Lead Target

Demarcus Robinson, rostered in 33.6% of leagues, could become the lead target in the Rams’ offense if Cooper Kupp remains sidelined. With Kupp’s recent injury, Robinson has the opportunity to step up as a key player. The Rams’ high volume of passing attempts further enhances Robinson’s potential value. He is a solid flex option for fantasy managers looking to fill the gap.

Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Leading in Targets

Romeo Doubs, currently rostered in 30.2% of leagues, is an every-down player for the Packers and leads the team in snaps, routes run, and targets. Despite a run-heavy approach in Week 2, Doubs’ consistent usage makes him a valuable addition. His potential for continued growth makes him worth adding to your roster.

Wan’Dale Robinson (New York Giants): Worth Stashing

Wan’Dale Robinson, rostered in 18.2% of leagues, has had limited targets but could become valuable in future matchups. Despite a challenging Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns, Robinson’s potential for better performances in upcoming games makes him a good stash candidate.

Alec Pierce (Indianapolis Colts): Strong Recent Performances

Alec Pierce, currently rostered in 13.5% of leagues, has shown strong performances in recent weeks. With increased targets and consistent fantasy points, Pierce is a valuable addition. His performance and involvement in the Colts’ offense make him a player to watch and consider for your roster.

Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers): Breakout Potential

Quentin Johnston, rostered in 6.9% of leagues, had a standout game in Week 2, making him worth stashing. While he faces tough matchups in the coming weeks, Johnston’s performance and potential for increased involvement make him a player to keep an eye on.

Jalen Nailor (Minnesota Vikings): Potential for Increased Role

Jalen Nailor, currently rostered in 0.5% of leagues, had a solid performance in Week 2, especially with Jordan Addison sidelined. If Justin Jefferson and Addison remain out, Nailor could become a valuable start in deeper leagues. His performance and potential role increase make him worth considering.

Tight Ends

Hunter Henry (New England Patriots): Strong Week 2 Performance

Hunter Henry, currently rostered in 10.1% of leagues, had an impressive Week 2 performance with 109 receiving yards and 18.9 fantasy points. His connection with Jacoby Brissett and increased target volume make him a potential TE1 if this trend continues. Henry’s strong performance and usage make him a valuable addition.

Colby Parkinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential for Increased Targets

Colby Parkinson, rostered in 44.1% of leagues, may see more targets if Cooper Kupp remains out. Despite a disappointing Week 2, Parkinson’s potential involvement in the Rams’ passing game makes him a player to consider. Monitor Kupp