Week 7 was the coming out party for a trio of talented fantasy running backs, all of whom are readily available across multiple leagues as of this writing - as well as a breakout rookie receiver ready to contribute in a big way. I’ve already looked at the numbers, the matchups and covered the research for you (you’re welcome) so here’s a look at four guys on the waiver wire just waiting to help improve your team.
*All ownership numbers are an average of ESPN, Yahoo! and NFL.com fantasy football statistics, and are current as of 11 PM EST on Monday night.
Tre Mason - Running Back, St. Louis Rams
Yes, Benny Cunningham narrowly edged out Mason with 1.40 more fantasy points for Week 7, but moving forward it appears to be the Tre Mason Show in The Lou. While Cunningham had a solid 5 receptions for 46 yards and a score on Sunday, his two rushing attempts were less than those of wide receiver Tavon Austin. Meanwhile, Mason had 90 percent of the carries out of the backfield for the Rams, racking up 85 yards and a score for 14.50 fantasy points, on 18 carries. Cunningham is worth keeping an eye on in the passing game as a FLEX option, but Mason appears to be, at worst, a solid RB2 option for the remainder of the season.
Denard Robinson - Running Back, Jacksonville Jaguars
Robinson was FINALLY named the Jaguars’ starting running back headed into Week 7, and he sure made the most of the opportunity. Shoe Lace exploded for 127 rushing yards and a touchdown, finishing the day tied for 11th with 18.70 points and giving Jacksonville it’s first real running game this season. At less than one percent ownership, Robinson is an easy steal. The Jaguars’ terrible offensive line leaves a lot to be desired, but Robinson is worth adding for at least a week or two, because the talent is there for consistent performances like this.
Ronnie Hillman - Running Back, Denver Broncos
Despite Montee Ball being injured and Hillman assuming the starting duties in Denver, he’s currently owned in just under 12 percent of leagues. That’s pretty astonishing, considering he was the fourth best running back, and ninth best overall fantasy player for Week 7, amassing 26.30 points on 74 rushing yards and two touchdowns. All signs point to Hillman being the guy going forward in Denver, so this should be a no-brainer. Go out and add him, now.
Odell Beckham - Wide Receiver, New York Giants
Rueben Randle may have received the bulk of Eli Manning's targets (nine) on sunday, but Beckham Jr.’s six targets came where it counted most, finishing the day with just 34 receiving yards but two crucial red zone touchdowns, good for 20.70 fantasy points and 10th best for Week 7. With Victor Cruz out for the year, Randle will likely continue to receiving the majority of targets in the passing game, but Beckham Jr. has proven that he will be a dependable target for Manning moving forward. At around 20 percent ownership, now is the time to add Beckham Jr., before everyone else gets the same idea.