Watching the wire

Posted September 4th, 2007 by leoshane
in

As you scour the waiver wire to fill out your fantasy team’s bench, here are a few overlooked players who might be worth gambling on: 

 

Owned in 18.6 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

The Chiefs’ #2 back is a must for Larry Johnson owners and a valuable bargaining chip for their opponents. Remember: Johnson carried the ball an NFL-record 416 times last season. The last two RBs to do that, Eddie George in 2000 and Jamal Lewis in 1998, both suffered significant injuries the following season.

Owned in 13.4 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

The Dolphins didn’t take Ginn 9th in April’s draft to keep him on the sidelines. He won’t be the next Randy Moss, but his dual role as a returner and deep-threat receiver make him worth stashing on your bench.  

 

Owned in 10.4 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

Only three tight ends caught more touchdowns than Clark last year (some guys named Antonio Gates, Tony Gonzalez and Jeremy Shockey) but the Bears’ pickup of top prospect Greg Olsen in the draft. But with Olsen’s knee sprain last week, Clark is worth another look.  

 

Owned in 8.6 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

Someone will have to catch passes for the Falcons, and while many owners eyed Joe Horn with a late pick most passed on Jenkins. The fourth-year wideout did collect seven touchdowns last year in the heavy-rushing offense, and he could surprise in their new passing game.  

Owned in 4.8 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

The rookie’s looks to have played his way into the third or fourth WR spot for the Packers, and if star wideout Donald Driver’s sprained foot turns out to be more serious than predicted he could see a lot more playing time. 

 

Owned in 2.9 percent of ESPN.com fantasy leagues

No one should rely on Huard to be a weekly starter, but as a bye-week fill-in or emergency QB substitute he isn’t the worst fantasy option. In 10 appearances last season, he threw 11 TDs and only one interception. True, he averaged less than 200 passing yards a game, at least you’ll know he won’t cost you points.

 

What do you think? Any other sleepers or gems out there that military fantasy owners should know about?