Week 7 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire: Top Rookies to Pick Up – Yahoo Sports

Every Monday throughout the season, Justin Boone analyzes the top waiver-wire pickups.

Roster percentages derive from Yahoo leagues. Free-Agent Budget (FAB) figures reflect a $100 salary cap. Only players with a roster percentage of less than 50% in leagues are taken into account.

Important injuries to monitor

• Mike Evans (Achilles tendonitis)

• Ladd McConkey (concussion)

• Rashod Bateman (shoulder)

• Treylon Burks (undisclosed)

Bye weeks

Pickups by position

Top 10 overall pickups for Week 7

Quarterbacks

Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers

This week is not particularly favorable for fantasy quarterback selections, which is unfortunate for those looking for substitutes during bye weeks for Josh Allen, Trevor Lawrence, and Jayden Daniels.

You’ll find the usual list of streamers below, including a possibly new starter in J.J. McCarthy, who demonstrated promise after Jameis Winston was benched. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that Mayfield is anticipated to make his return this week.

While his early-season performance left much to be desired, a healthy Mayfield is a candidate as a fantasy starter. The veteran quarterback is one year removed from averaging the fifth-best fantasy points among passers in 2024. He also posted QB15 statistics during an injury-plagued 2025 season for the Bucs offense. Coming up, he has a gentler schedule with matchups against the Panthers, Falcons, Bears, a bye, Lions, and Panthers again. These defenses generally fall within the top half of the league regarding fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks.

Kyler Murray is rostered by 51%, but he would be the top QB pickup if he is available.

Streaming options

• Aaron Rodgers at NO (42% rostered)

• Michael Penix Jr. vs. SF (15% rostered)

• Deshaun Watson at TEN (12% rostered)

Risky streaming options

• Geno Smith vs. MIA (7% rostered)

• Tanner McKee vs. DAL (4% rostered)

Risky streaming options (if starter is out)

• Tyler Huntley vs. CIN (7% rostered)

• Jalon Daniels at CAR (5% rostered)

Desperation streaming options

• Malik Willis at NYJ (19% rostered)

• Jacoby Brissett vs. DEN (36% rostered)

• Sam Darnold vs. KC (41% rostered)

• Cam Ward vs. CLE (9% rostered)

• Daniel Jones at MIN (28% rostered)

Desperation streaming options (if named starter)

• J.J. McCarthy at HOU (1% rostered)

Deep stashes 

• Fernando Mendoza (5% rostered)

• Carson Beck (1% rostered)

Running Backs

Mike Washington Jr., Raiders

Ashton Jeanty and Klint Kubiak have assured all week that the Raiders’ starting running back is finally fit after struggling with ankle issues early in the season. Given the favorable matchup against the Bills, it seemed to be the perfect opportunity for a strong fantasy performance.

Unfortunately, Jeanty once again struggled with efficiency, managing only 22 yards on 10 carries, coupled with another 36 yards through four receptions. A touchdown salvaged his fantasy day, but he was again held under 60% of the snaps for the second consecutive week.

Meanwhile, Washington recorded a season-high 35% of the snaps and converted his 10 touches into 50 scrimmage yards. This was aided by Jeanty receiving only limited playing time in the second half, which was surprising given that the game was tied 13-13 at halftime.

It appears that despite Jeanty’s supposed health last week, he is not playing at full strength. The team’s decision on whether to rest him is still uncertain, much like the Cardinals did with Jeremiyah Love in Week 6, but it remains a possibility.

Regardless, Washington merits being rostered in all leagues. Not only is he the next player in line in Las Vegas, but he has also performed well with the touches he’s received. The rookie currently stands as an RB3/flex option with top-15 potential if Jeanty ends up missing time.

Kendre Miller, Saints

The Saints’ backfield has turned into a frustrating three-man committee all season long, irrespective of which backs are healthy. Fortunately, we might finally gain some clarity for Week 7.

Alvin Kamara has struggled with injuries over the previous two games and is unable to handle significant workload at 31 years old. He has transitioned more into a complementary pass-catching role, which he’s sharing with CJ Donaldson.

This situation has resulted in Miller receiving a bulk of the early-down carries, culminating in a season-high 20 carries and 70 yards in a favorable game script against the Giants. He has also scored twice this season.

Travis Etienne Jr. remains on injured reserve until after the team’s Week 8 bye, ensuring that we have at least one more game with the current trio. As such, Miller stands as a high-end RB3 with RB2 potential against the Steelers. Kamara should only be considered as a risky flex option.

Tyrone Tracy Jr., Giants

The uncertainty regarding Cam Skattebo’s sudden exit from the offense looms large, whether it was a temporary disciplinary measure or something longer-lasting. However, considering the team’s pursuit of other running backs during the offseason, it seems they may not view Skattebo as a key player in their offense.

The committee approach during Week 6 didn’t seem to address the Giants’ rushing woes. Devin Singletary saw 40% of the snaps and converted five touches into 33 yards while Najee Harris was ineffective with just 2 yards on four carries, leading to his release from the roster on Tuesday.

Tracy made the biggest impact from a fantasy perspective, accumulating 45 yards and two touchdowns on eight touches with a 38% snap share. He undoubtedly exhibited the most potential within this group, so the next steps depend on whether the coaches share this sentiment.

Keep in mind that Tracy topped 1,000 scrimmage yards in each of the previous two seasons. He has the ability to lead this backfield if given the chance, making him worth stashing while monitoring the unfolding situation.

Jonah Coleman, Broncos (IR)

If Coleman has been dropped, he should be snagged for your IR spot. J.K. Dobbins has scored in the last two games, yet he hasn’t performed well this season. RJ Harvey has not made a case for the lead back role either.

Meanwhile, Coleman showcased potential with 58 yards, three receptions, and a touchdown in his last appearance. The rookie represents a low-risk investment that could yield significant returns in the latter part of the season, particularly if Dobbins struggles with durability again.

James Conner, Cardinals (IR)

This is a long shot, but Conner is a potential trade candidate sitting on IR in Arizona. I currently have the veteran stashed in multiple leagues, just in case the Cardinals decide to send him to a team in need of a running back before the trade deadline.

Rachaad White is currently 56% rostered but would be the top RB add, if accessible. Keep in mind, he’s on bye for Week 7.

High-value backup RBs to stash in case of injury

• Brian Robinson Jr. (43% rostered) 

• Kaelon Black (28% rostered)

• Emmett Johnson (23% rostered)

Flex options

• Samaje Perine at BAL (5% rostered)

• Roschon Johnson vs. NE (5% rostered)

Flex options (if starter is out)

• Bam Knight vs. DEN (1% rostered)

• Jawhar Jordan vs. NYG (0% rostered)

Risky flex options

• Tyjae Spears vs. CLE (22% rostered)

Risky flex options (if starter is healthy and out)

• Dylan Sampson at TEN (8% rostered) 

Risky flex options (if starter is out)

• Jaleel McLaughlin at TEN (10% rostered)

• Audric Estimé at TEN (0% rostered) 

Dart-throw flex options

• Devin Singletary at HOU (1% rostered)

• Kenny Gainwell at CAR (49% rostered)

• Justice Hill vs. CIN (4% rostered)

• Corey Kiner at CHI (1% rostered)

Dart-throw flex options (if starter is out)

• Pierre Strong at DET (1% rostered)

• George Holani vs. KC (7% rostered)

• CJ Donaldson vs. PIT (0% rostered)

Bye-week stashes

• Chris Rodriguez Jr. (27% rostered)

• Austin Ekeler (5% rostered)

• Kimani Vidal (19% rostered)

High-potential stashes

• Jaylen Wright (5% rostered)

• Seth McGowan (2% rostered)

Deep stashes

• Tyler Goodson (1% rostered)

Join or start a Yahoo Fantasy Basketball league for the 2026-27 NBA season

Wide Receivers

Omar Cooper Jr., Jets

The Jets’ offense has been a constant challenge due to injuries affecting Cooper, Adonai Mitchell, Kenyon Sadiq, Mason Taylor, and Breece Hall in the initial five weeks. Nevertheless, Cooper has capitalized on his opportunities whenever he has been on the field.

Cooper played just five snaps in his debut before suffering an injury but managed to make a 30-yard catch. After a month on IR, he returned this week and recorded a six-catch, 103-yard, one-touchdown performance on seven targets while taking on a full-time role. He also had another touchdown that was called back due to a penalty.

Anytime a first-round wideout has instant success, it merits attention from fantasy managers. Mitchell is still on a week-to-week status following finger surgery. Even upon his return, it’s hard to ignore Cooper given his performance thus far.

The Jets also have a favorable schedule in the coming month, with games against the Dolphins, Raiders, and Bills in three of their next four matchups. Don’t underestimate Cooper’s contributions; he’s a must-add player to see if he can maintain this level of performance.

Ja’Kobi Lane, Ravens

Similar to Cooper, Lane is another rookie who got injured in the opener but made a comeback from IR with a strong Week 6 showing.

During his first game back, Lane caught only one of three targets (though Lamar Jackson attempted to target him in the end zone) before fracturing his wrist in Week 1. Fortunately, he fully recovered and demonstrated his capability in Sunday’s performance where he received five targets, finishing with four catches for 40 yards, playing alongside backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. Rashod Bateman sustained a shoulder injury during the game that might keep him out for several weeks, depending on its severity.

With Jackson likely returning, potentially this week, Baltimore’s aerial attack will be significantly more potent. This is crucial since their upcoming opponents include the Bengals, Bills, and Jaguars, which are predicted to be high-scoring matchups. While Lane may not carry the same draft pedigree as Cooper, there’s an opportunity for him to emerge as a reliable fantasy WR3/flex option under Declan Doyle’s coaching.

Antonio Williams/Treylon Burks, Commanders

Terry McLaurin was carted off the field Monday night with a significant knee injury that could sideline him for an extended period. This development opens opportunities for Williams to solidify his role in the Commanders’ offense.

The third-round rookie led all Washington receivers in snaps and routes during the loss to the 49ers, concluding the matchup with 50 yards on three catches. He has demonstrated flashes multiple times in the first six weeks, including a debut with four catches for 64 yards and a touchdown, along with an 87-yard TD in Week 4 that was negated due to a penalty.

Williams has the potential to be just as valuable as Cooper and Lane in terms of waiver wire pickups, but he will need to be benched while there’s a bye this week.

For deeper leagues, Burks is also an option; he stepped up in McLaurin’s absence with four catches and 66 yards. He has scored a couple of touchdowns this season, yet he limped off later in Monday’s game with trainers, and we may not have an update on his condition until the team preps for their Week 8 game against the Eagles.

Jaylin Noel, Texans

Noel is increasingly proving his worth as a consistent element of the Texans’ offense. The sophomore wide receiver has recorded at least 50 yards and/or a score in four of his six appearances this season, despite playing 62% of Houston’s snaps or less in each game.

Currently, he is on a three-game scoring spree, with lineups of 3-85-0, 5-41-1, and 4-107-1 on Sunday.

The Texans are struggling mightily in their ground game, and with the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr. and the impressive play by C.J. Stroud, it makes sense for them to rely more on the aerial attack.

Nico Collins, MHJ, and Noel can form a menacing trio, but do not overlook Noel’s potential impact. He is a WR4/flex with upside and should benefit from defenses aiming their focus on his more high-profile teammates.

Tre Tucker, Raiders

Fantasy managers should already be familiar with Tucker’s profile. Although he isn’t a trustworthy weekly contributor, in situations of bye weeks and injuries affecting your lineup, he can be deployed as a high-upside option.

This season, he has delivered on two separate occasions: a five-catch, 119-yard, one-touchdown outing in Week 2 against the Chargers, followed by five catches for 97 yards and two touchdowns against the Bills on Sunday. Those matchups coincidentally featured his easier matchups this season, so bear that in mind.

You needn’t spend excessively for Tucker, but if you’re scouring the waiver wire for a player who could help mitigate an obstacle, he stands out as a solid spot start in the right conditions. Conversely, if you require a stable high-floor, low-ceiling WR4/flex, consider Malik Washington instead.

Germie Bernard is rostered at 50% but would be the top WR pickup, if accessible. 

Jordyn Tyson is 48% rostered but would be ranked as the second WR pickup behind Bernard, if available. 

Jakobi Meyers is 47% rostered but ranks as the third WR add behind Bernard and Tyson, if accessible. However, be mindful that he is on bye in Week 7.

Alec Pierce is 51% rostered but can be claimed as an IR stash, if available.

WR4/flex options

• Malik Washington at NYJ (41% rostered)

Flex options

• DeMario Douglas at CHI (8% rostered)

• Chris Bell at NYJ (3% rostered)

• Keenan Allen at MIN (47% rostered)

• Konata Mumpfield at LV (0% rostered)

• Kendrick Bourne vs. DEN (19% rostered)

• Ryan Flournoy at PHI (14% rostered)

Risky flex options (if starter is out)

• Jordan Watkins at ATL (0% rostered)

• Brandin Cooks at ATL (6% rostered)

Risky flex options

• Malachi Fields at HOU (5% rostered)

• Jahan Dotson vs. SF (1% rostered)

Risky flex options (if healthy)

• Adonai Mitchell vs. MIA (15% rostered)

Dart-throw flex options

• Rashid Shaheed vs. KC (29% rostered)

• Ted Hurst III at CAR (1% rostered)

Dart-throw flex options (if healthy)

• Caleb Douglas at NYJ (7% rostered)

• Dontayvion Wicks (33% rostered)

Bye-week stashes

• Travis Hunter (7% rostered)

• Keon Coleman (31% rostered)

• Quentin Johnston (41% rostered)

High-potential stashes

• Makai Lemon (34% rostered)

• Tyreek Hill (24% rostered)

Deep stashes

• Jalen Royals (1% rostered)

• Kyle Williams (1% rostered)

• Cyrus Allen (3% rostered)

• Jordan Whittington (0% rostered)

• Savion Williams (0% rostered)

• Tory Horton (0% rostered)

• Isaac TeSlaa (3% rostered)

Trade-deadline stashes

• Jerry Jeudy (4% rostered)

• Jauan Jennings (5% rostered)

Injured-reserve stashes

• Christian Kirk (5% rostered)

Tight Ends

Terrance Ferguson/Tyler Higbee, Rams

The Rams’ offense is poised for significant changes with Davante Adams expected to be sidelined for six to ten weeks due to a ruptured hamstring. Puka Nacua is currently receiving as much volume as he can handle, but the team will rely on him to the maximum extent now. Although receiver Konata Mumpfield will inherit some of Adams’ targets (and can be picked up as a flex), the tight ends will become even more crucial in this offensive scheme.

In the immediate term, Tyler Higbee will serve as a robust streaming option for Week 7. The veteran tight end surpassed 60 yards in three consecutive games prior to a quieter outing in Sunday’s defeat.

Looking ahead, Ferguson presents an interesting prospect as a valuable fantasy asset for the remainder of the season. He is currently on IR until Week 8, so patience is essential for fantasy managers. However, the upside is undeniable.

Ferguson has scored in each of the four complete games he’s participated in when either Nacua or Adams was unavailable. One of those games occurred earlier this year when he recorded six receptions for 54 yards and a touchdown on nine targets.

While the Rams could potentially trade for a receiver to fill Adams’ void, Ferguson remains a key stash with a clear opportunity to emerge as a fantasy TE1, serving as Matthew Stafford’s second main pass-catcher until Adams returns.

T.J. Hockenson, Vikings

Hockenson has experienced an odd few weeks, beginning with an impressive performance where he caught all 13 of his targets in Week 4, accumulating 119 yards against the Dolphins. He was unable to replicate that success due to a concussion he suffered in Week 5 after merely two snaps.

Now, following the bye week, Hockenson should be ready for action in a favorable matchup against the struggling Colts. Indy has allowed significant performances from several tight ends this season, including a 9-101-1 game by Travis Kelce and a 5-44-2 from Pat Freiermuth.

The following week, Hockenson faces a Lions defense that allows the highest fantasy points to tight ends. Thus, at worst, he can be utilized as a high-end TE2 streaming option in those contests.

Chig Okonkwo, Commanders

With McLaurin’s injury, Okonkwo stands to gain additional targets, reverting to a normal share of snaps after previously missing time due to a hamstring issue early in the season.

In his last two games, Okonkwo has accumulated 60 yards on six targets against the Giants and 69 yards on seven targets against the 49ers.

Before Stefon Diggs’ arrival, Okonkwo was among my top sleeper picks over the summer. As McLaurin is expected to be sidelined for a significant duration, the 27-year-old tight end is again positioned to vie for low-end fantasy TE1 valuation for the rest of the season.

Michael Mayer, Raiders

This article marks the third time I’ve discussed a Raider, likely setting a new record. However, there is value to be gleaned from an offense that has shown competitiveness this season under Klint Kubiak’s leadership in Las Vegas.

Mayer doesn’t fit the mold of a conventional No. 2 tight end, given that Brock Bowers assumes more of a receiver’s role in the offense. One could argue that Mayer is actually the starting tight end for this unit, and he has consistently produced in the past month, accumulating 32 yards and a touchdown in Week 3, 82 yards in Week 4, and 95 yards on Sunday.

Tucker’s role can be inconsistent, so expect this passing game to primarily revolve around Bowers and Mayer most weeks. This positions Mayer as a TE2 streaming option with a higher ceiling compared to many players in that echelon who rely solely on touchdowns for fantasy relevance.

Hunter Henry is rostered by 51%, making him the top TE pickup, if available. 

Pat Freiermuth is rostered by 46%, placing him as the second TE option behind Henry, if available. 

Risky streaming options

• Darren Waller vs. TB (14% rostered)

• Cade Otton at CAR (4% rostered)

• Kenyon Sadiq at CAR (4% rostered)

• Darnell Washington at NO (2% rostered)

Dart-throw streaming options

• AJ Barner vs. KC (11% rostered)

• Mike Gesicki at BAL (14% rostered)

• Greg Dulcich at NYJ (5% rostered)

• Colby Parkinson at LV (1% rostered)

• Tommy Tremble vs. TB (0% rostered)

• Josh Cuevas vs. CIN (0% rostered)

High-potential stashes

• Eli Raridon (1% rostered)

Week 7 streamers

Defenses

Kickers

Will Reichard is 59% rostered, thus would be the top K add, if accessible. 

Drop candidates

Quarterbacks: Jalen Hurts, Bo Nix, Justin Herbert

Running Backs: MarShawn Lloyd, David Montgomery, Kenny Gainwell, Keaton Mitchell

Wide Receivers: Josh Downs, Chris Godwin Jr., Cortland Sutton, Michael Pittman Jr.

Tight Ends: Mark Andrews, Jake Ferguson, Dalton Schultz

• MarShawn Lloyd was injured and failed to perform in what may be his final start for the Packers. With Josh Jacobs expected to make a return this week, Lloyd reverts to being a backup who benefits only from injuries to others and, given his performance over the past six weeks, there’s no need to keep him unless you’re in a very deep league.

• Following back-to-back 70-plus yard performances in Week 2 and Week 3, it seemed Josh Downs might have a chance to realize a new ceiling with Alec Pierce out. Sadly, he hasn’t surpassed 50 yards in any game since, placing him in low-ceiling flex territory for fantasy. The upcoming matchup against the Vikings in Week 7 isn’t likely to improve his outlook.

• Mark Andrews has not exceeded 50 yards in a game this year and has been held under 30 yards for the past three weeks. The veteran is purely a TD-or-bust fantasy TE2, and currently has only one touchdown this season.