Over the previous two weeks, there has definitely been a lack of talent on the free agent wire, however this week, there were some diamonds in the rough that look like they should shine through for at least a couple weeks. Led off by a trio of RBs, this week has enough solid waivers that should supply a pickup for almost everyone, if needed. So without futher ado, let’s get right into the NFL Week 6 Pickups.
QBs
Austin Davis – I am fully taking credit for being probably the only person who saw something in Davis. After another good performance last week against the Eagles, and now being named the full time starter for the rest of the year, Davis can now be started in two QB leagues and a solid backup in one QB leagues despite the tough matchup over the next two weeks.
Brian Hoyer – While everyone has been waiting to find out when Johnny Manziel was finaly going to start, Brian Hoyer has just been playing solid football. After how he played in an unbelievable comeback win against the hapless Titans, he seems to have secured the job for the time being. He can also be used as a solid 3rd QB in two QB leagues.
RBs
Branden Oliver – Talk about coming out of nowhere, Branden Oliver did just that this week with Donald Brown going down. Oliver will be the #1 waiver pick in 90% of leagues this week and while people compare him to Darren Sproles, because of his height and jersey number, he is a much bigger guy at 210 lbs. He may take the job ad run with it literally for the rest of the year.
Andre Williams – If you are in a PPR league, I would move Hillman over Williams, but if you are in a standard scoring league, Williams has the chance to also “steal” the job from starter Rashad Jennings. Williams is a bigger talent, better RB, and has less mileage on his tires. The only difference is he can’t catch for a lick, but like I said, unless you are in a PPR league, don’t let that deter you.
Ronnie Hillman – The biggest knock on Hillman his entire career so far has been he fumbles too much. He has good pas catching ability and has good speed. However, he is under 200 lbs so he may get taken out at the goalline. He has a tough matchup the next two weeks so he’s more of a desperation pickup with high upside.
WRs
Odell Beckham Jr – One thing I have claimed is that I don’t like Victor Cruz as a #1 WR and being the focal point of the defense. The Giants just didn’t have enough weapons to do anything else. Now that Larry Donell has emerged and the talented Beckham Jr is back from injury, it makes Eli Manning and the Giants offense much more dangerous.
Justin Hunter – If, and that’s a BIG IF, Jake Locker and actually stay somewhat healthy, Justin Hunter could be poised for a big 2nd half. The big former Tennessee Volunteer WR had 99 yards and a TD and displayed his size and speed combination to get behind the defense last week for a 75 yard TD from Charlie Whitehurt. He has big red zone ability and talent.
TEs
Tim Wright – I want to temper your expectations with this one. Wright looks to be slowly being brought into the old Aaron Hernandez role. Even though it seemed like he was in for almost the entire game last week, he oly played 19 plays. You can pick him up now, but I would keep him benched until his usage level increases.
DEFs
San Diego Chargers Defense – Raise your hand if you can definitely tell who the Raiders QB will be this week……Anyone? Yes, that’s why the Chargers should be the #1 defense this week. Carr is hurt and they have zero confidence is Matt Schaub. I really don’t even see how they score unless if from a turnover.
Baltimore Ravens Defense – Even though the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been playing tough, they are still letting defenses do well against them. Ravens have an above average defense and the Bucs have a below average offense, it just adds up to a good stream defense for this week.
Denver Broncos – If you saw the Jets play last week, then you already know why I’m telling you to pickup the Denver defense. Jets offense is horrible right now and whether it’s Geno Smith or Michael Vick, it doesn’t really matter. They have another 2-3 games like that and Rex Ryan won’t even make it until the end of the season.
Those are your NFL week 6 pickups. Enjoy the games.
