Quarterback Baker Mayfield and Tight End Isaiah Likely Among Top Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Targets for Week 17

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26/12/2023 23h54

In the final week of the NFL fantasy football season, quarterbacks Baker Mayfield and tight end Isaiah Likely have emerged as top waiver wire pickups for fantasy owners looking to secure a championship victory. With their recent performances and favorable matchups, Mayfield and Likely offer enticing options for teams in need of a late-season boost.

Mayfield, the Cleveland Browns' signal-caller, is making a strong case for the Comeback Player of the Year award and has been a standout performer in recent weeks. Despite facing a tough matchup against the New Orleans Saints, Mayfield's hot streak cannot be ignored. Over the past three weeks, he has averaged an impressive 23 fantasy points per game, throwing for 808 yards and eight touchdowns. With the Browns vying for a playoff berth and Mayfield playing for a potential long-term contract, fantasy managers can trust him to lead their teams to victory in the championship game.

Another player to keep an eye on is Las Vegas Raiders' veteran quarterback Derek Carr. Although Carr has received mixed reviews throughout the season, he has recorded back-to-back performances of 20 or more fantasy points, throwing three touchdown passes in each game. Carr's matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers presents a favorable opportunity, as the Bucs have allowed the most passing yards in the league this season. With the potential for a seventh 300-yard game, Carr becomes an attractive streaming option for fantasy managers seeking a reliable quarterback for their championship matchup.

Meanwhile, Baltimore Ravens' quarterback Joe Flacco has been on a hot streak of his own, playing some of the best football in his career. Flacco's recent success, combined with a crucial matchup against the New York Jets, makes him an intriguing option. While the Jets pose a tough challenge for quarterbacks in fantasy, Flacco's narrative-driven form and the Browns' playoff hopes could lead to a solid performance. Consider streaming Flacco for those willing to take a calculated risk in the championship game.

In the running back position, Chicago Bears' Khalil Herbert emerges as an attractive waiver wire pickup. With D'Onta Foreman dealing with a personal matter, Herbert took over as the lead back and recorded 112 rushing yards and a touchdown on 20 carries in Week 16. While Foreman's status remains uncertain, Herbert provides a confident start if he continues to receive the bulk of the carries.

Miami Dolphins' running back Phillip Lindsay could also be a hidden gem on the waiver wire. With Duke Johnson Jr. out due to an injury, Lindsay stepped up to contribute to the Dolphins' backfield. His matchup against the Tennessee Titans, who have been generous to running backs throughout the season, presents an opportunity for Lindsay to produce significant fantasy points if given the opportunity.

On the receiving end, New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed stands out as a high-risk, high-reward flex play for fantasy managers. Shaheed has recorded four games with 18 or more fantasy points this season, coinciding with his touchdown performances. Facing the porous Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defense that has allowed the most passing yards, Shaheed possesses the potential for explosive plays, making him an intriguing option for those going up against tough matchups.

In the tight end department, Everett of the Seattle Seahawks has been a consistent performer, scoring between eight and 12 fantasy points in five consecutive games. With a favorable matchup against the Denver Broncos, Everett has a good chance of recording a touchdown and continuing his solid scoring streak.

Likely, the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has also been a reliable player in recent weeks. Although he may not be widely rostered in fantasy leagues, Likely has consistently provided scoring opportunities and yards. With a breakout performance of 56 receiving yards and 8.6 fantasy points last week, Likely is worth considering as a streaming option against the Miami Dolphins.

As Week 17 approaches, fantasy football managers will be looking to secure their championship victories. With quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Derek Carr heating up, running backs Khalil Herbert and Phillip Lindsay providing potential value, and wide receiver Rashid Shaheed catching attention, the waiver wire presents opportunities for fantasy managers to bolster their teams. Additionally, tight ends Gerald Everett and Isaiah Likely offer consistent performances that could make a difference in the quest for a fantasy championship. It's time to make strategic moves and trust in these players as they aim to deliver fantasy glory in the final week of the season.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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