As we hit Week 10 of the 2025 NFL season, fantasy managers are entering the home stretch—with playoff positioning on the line. This means every waiver wire decision matters now. With several teams on bye, injury shake‑ups underway, and breakout performances emerging, it’s time to sharpen your roster adjustments. Below is a breakdown of the most important waiver wire moves and strategic considerations heading into Week 10.
Top Waiver Targets by Position
Quarterback
- Sam Darnold (Seattle Seahawks): Coming off a 330‑yard, 4‑touchdown performance and facing an Arizona defense vulnerable to the pass, Darnold is becoming a priority streaming option.
- Mac Jones (San Francisco 49ers): With the starter injured, Jones has taken over and delivered steady production (~16 fantasy points per game). A good low‑cost target if available.
These pickups are particularly relevant given the QB injury bug and multiple byes this week.
Running Back
Look for backs who are stepping into larger roles due to injury or roster shifts. Handcuffs with upside become critical now. While no names dominate every league, the concept is clear: identify usage increases and exploitable matchups.
Wide Receiver / Tight End
- Colston Loveland (TE, Chicago Bears): With a favorable matchup vs. the Giants and low rostership, Loveland is a strong add for tight‑end needy teams.
- Alec Pierce (WR, Indianapolis Colts): Available in many leagues and entering a matchup zone with upside, Pierce is a stash worth considering.
- Troy Franklin (WR, Denver Broncos) & Tez Johnson (WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Both are low‑cost, high‑upside options for formats where depth matters.
The key here: find players who are under‑rostered, stepping into opportunity, and facing favorable matchups.
Strategy & Timing Considerations
- Byes and matchups matter now more than ever: With several teams off this week, available players with immediate roles rise in value.
- Usage over hype: Focus on players whose snap count, target share or carries are increasing — not just those mentioned in blurbs.
- Stash vs. start: Some waiver additions are for immediate contributions; others for playoff positioning in weeks 14‑17. Be purposeful about which role you need.
- Budget your FAAB wisely: In leagues using FAAB, don’t overpay for marginal gains now — save budget for when playoff pushes begin.
- Balance risk and reward: High‐usage players carry less risk, but late‐blooming handcuffs or rookies can offer big upside if your league allows bench flexibility.
What to Watch Going Forward
- Injuries to key starters at all positions will create ripple effects. Keep tabs on injury reports and how teams adjust their rotations.
- Emergence of second‑year or rookie players stepping into larger roles — these often fly under the radar until they’ve already moved up.
- Matchup shifts: As the fantasy season narrows, favorable weekly matchups can swing waiver value significantly.
- Trade dynamics: Players added this week may not just be immediate studs — they may become trade chips for stronger positions later.
Final Word
Week 10 marks a critical inflection point. Fantasy managers who get waiver wire strategy right now can set up distinct advantages heading into the playoff stretch. It’s less about chasing hype and more about precise, opportunity‑driven adds. Prioritize players who combine low rostership, rising usage and favorable matchups. The difference between winning or losing your bracket may well come down to the claim you make this week.
By SportBuzzHub staff
November 5, 2025
