Week 3 of the NFL season is almost here, and with all the injuries piling up to stud players, the waiver wire should be in full force in a lot of leagues, especially deep ones. We have already lost fantasy studs Peyton Manning and Jamaal Charles to (potentially, in Manning’s case) season-ending injuries in addition to a bunch of others getting hurt. Here are my picks to salvage your season:
Dexter McCluster, RB/WR, Kansas City Chiefs
McCluster is the obvious pick-up of the week for all leagues with the loss of Jamaal Charles due to a torn ACL. McCluster fits the Reggie Bush mold in that he is a pass-catching back that stretches defenses. He already has nine receptions on the year and has racked up an impressive 7.8 yards per carry on 12 attempts.
Rex Grossman, QB, Washington Redskins
I never thought I’d see the day when “Sexy Rexy” would be considered a fantasy pickup. Seriously, did you? Grossman seems to have revitalized his career in Washington. Through the first two weeks, he is sixth in the NFL pass attempts, tied for sixth in passing scores, and ninth in passing yards. Use him as a spot starter if you absolutely need a QB.
Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Tennessee Titans
Continuing surprising play at the QB position is Titans’ Matt Hasselbeck. Hasselbeck has been on fire lately as defenses have been stacking the box due to Chris Johnson. Hasselbeck is averaging 310 yards per game and currently has a 94.2 QB rating. He’ll be facing a weak Denver Bronco defense this Sunday which could warrant a nice spot start in deeper leagues. He’s also worth holding onto as a solid QB2.
Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins
Helu took over as the primary starter in the second half last weekend and looked impressive, averaging 6.91 yards per carry as well as catching three passes for 38 yards. Helu won’t be starting over Tim Hightower just yet, but if Hightower maintains his measly 3.73 yards per carry, expect Helu to take over the reigns as starter. He’s worth a pickup in all leagues.
Denarius Moore, WR, Oakland Raiders
Moore opened eyes last week, catching five passes for 146 yards and a score. Moore also added a 25 yard carry to his statline, showing potential owners his big-play potential. It might be a little early to say this, but Moore can be the next Miles Austin.
David Nelson, WR, Buffalo Bills
Nelson also had a breakout week last week and is bound to have many more big days with the loss of Roscoe Parrish. Nelson caught 10 passes for 83 yards and a score. Nelson may eventually emerge as QB Ryan Fitzpatrick’s top receiver if Stevie Johnson ends up going down due to his nagging groin injury.
Eric Decker, WR, Denver Broncos
Decker has arguably been the Broncos best offensive weapon thus far. He had a career day last Sunday, racking up 113 yards and two touchdowns. Decker has long-term potential, and should be picked up immediately even if he’s not a guaranteed fantasy starter just yet.
Fred Davis, TE, Washington Redskins
Rounding out the Redskins’ pickups for the week, Davis has the look of a stud TE this year. Davis currently ranks sixth among TEs in fantasy. Grossman loves his TEs, so he looks like a safe pickup.
Chi Side of Chambana 