As bye weeks and
injuries wreak havoc on fantasy rosters, the waiver wire once again becomes a gold mine for managers who act early. Week 6 is filled with new opportunities as several players have stepped up in larger roles or taken advantage of unexpected
absences. From breakout running backs to emerging pass-catchers, here’s who deserves your attention before waivers clear.
Quarterbacks to Target
Jaxson Dart (New York Giants)
Jaxson Dart is quickly becoming a name fantasy managers can’t ignore. After a strong debut against the Chargers, the Giants’ rookie quarterback followed it up with a gritty showing versus the Saints. He threw for 202 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, and added 55 rushing yards on the ground. His athleticism gives him an intriguing weekly floor, especially in formats that reward rushing production.
Michael Penix Jr. (Atlanta Falcons)
After a rocky Week 3 showing, Michael Penix Jr. bounced back in a big way with a 313-yard, two-touchdown outing in Atlanta’s win over Washington. The rookie showcased his trademark arm strength and accuracy, connecting on 77% of his passes and making several tight-window throws that reminded scouts why he was a first-round pick. The Falcons’ coaching staff has simplified the offense, allowing Penix to thrive in rhythm throws and timing routes.
Spencer Rattler (New Orleans Saints)
Spencer Rattler has quietly played his way into fantasy relevance. The Saints’ rookie has thrown for at least 200 yards in four of his five starts, posting a 7:3 touchdown-to-interception ratio while keeping New Orleans’ offense afloat. His pocket presence has improved each week, and his ability to extend plays has given the Saints’ receivers more time to separate downfield. Rattler also adds some rushing upside, with 123 yards on the ground so far this season
Running Backs to Target
Rico Dowdle (Carolina Panthers)
Dowdle exploded onto the fantasy radar in Week 5 after Chuba Hubbard went down with a calf injury. The former Cowboys backup ran for 206 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries and added three receptions for 28 yards, showing real workhorse potential. His physical running style fits Carolina’s new offensive rhythm under Dave Canales, and with Hubbard still questionable, Dowdle’s volume alone makes him a must-add.
Michael Carter (Arizona Cardinals)
Carter has quickly
carved out a primary role in Arizona’s backfield, handling 23 touches against New Orleans and racking up 18.3 PPR points. His reliable pass-catching skill gives him a weekly flex floor, particularly in a Cardinals offense still finding consistency at quarterback.
Kendre Miller (New Orleans Saints)
While Alvin Kamara remains the veteran leader, Miller’s share of touches continues to rise. He’s become the go-to option in change-of-pace situations and has quietly averaged over 5 yards per carry since Week 3. If Kamara misses time or the Saints ease his workload, Miller could emerge as a fantasy RB2 overnight.
Wide Receivers to Watch
Kendrick Bourne (San Francisco 49ers)
Bourne turned heads with 10 catches for 142 yards last week as the 49ers adjusted to injuries in their receiving corps. With his steady target share and strong rapport with Mac Jones, Bourne has quietly turned into a PPR gem who thrives in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
Tre Tucker (Las Vegas Raiders)
With the Raiders’ passing depth
tested by injuries, Tucker has taken advantage. He hauled in four catches for 40 yards in Week 5 and has earned increased playing time. His explosive speed and versatility make him a smart speculative add in deeper formats.
Josh Downs (Indianapolis Colts)
Downs continues to command attention in the Colts’ offense, recording six receptions for 54 yards on eight targets last week. With Anthony Richardson looking his way on key downs, Downs has emerged as a dependable slot receiver—and one of the better under-the-radar fantasy options this season.
Tight Ends Worth Adding
A.J. Barner (Seattle Seahawks)
Barner’s red-zone production speaks for itself: seven receptions, 53 yards, and two touchdowns last week. Sam Darnold has leaned heavily on him near the goal line, making Barner a legitimate streaming option for fantasy managers hunting touchdowns.
Darren Waller (Miami Dolphins)
Waller’s unexpected resurgence in Miami has been one of the season’s early surprises. He caught five passes for 78 yards and a touchdown in his return from retirement, and with Tyreek Hill sidelined, Waller’s target share is expected to climb significantly in Mike McDaniel’s offense.
Mason Taylor (New York Jets)
Taylor’s involvement has skyrocketed, with 25 targets and 132 yards over the past three weeks. As the Jets’ young offense evolves, Taylor’s reliability on short and intermediate routes has solidified him as a sneaky TE2 option with weekly upside.
Final Takeaway
Week 6’s waiver wire provides a mix of opportunity and stability. Players like Rico Dowdle and Kendrick Bourne can offer instant plug-and-play value, while others give prime stash value that could pay off later in the year. Acting quickly could be the most important step. Fantasy football often rewards the managers who adapt first. If these names are still sitting on your wire, it’s time to make a move before someone else does.
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