Fantasy Football Week 15 Waiver Wire: Playoff Edition
As we enter Week 15 of the fantasy football season, the playoff race is heating up! If you’re reading this, you’re likely still in the hunt for a championship, and the waiver wire could be your ticket to victory. Let’s dive into the top waiver wire pickups for Week 15, categorized by position, to help you solidify your playoff roster!
Quarterback: Sam Darnold (Carolina Panthers)
Looking for a quarterback to help you through the fantasy playoffs? Sam Darnold could be the answer. Over the last four weeks, he’s been surprisingly productive, averaging 24 points per game. He has matchups against Chicago (Week 15), Seattle (Week 16), and Green Bay (Week 17)—all favorable games that could allow Darnold to continue his solid run. While not a household name, his strength of schedule and ability to deliver solid points make him an ideal QB to stash or stream for the remainder of the season. If you’re dealing with QB injuries or just want to add depth, Darnold is a great option.
Running Back: Patrick Taylor (San Francisco 49ers)
With injuries ravaging the 49ers’ backfield, Patrick Taylor is stepping into a prime role. In Week 14, he carried the ball 7 times for 25 yards and a touchdown. The 49ers’ running backs have been banged up all season, and with the team still fighting for playoff positioning, Taylor is a prime candidate for increased touches. He plays in one of the NFL’s most potent offenses, which boosts his value. If you’re in need of a running back depth or have a roster spot to fill, grab Patrick Taylor before he’s snatched up off the waiver wire.
Running Back: Isaiah Davis (New York Jets)
Isaiah Davis has quietly been making an impact in the Jets’ offense, especially with Breece Hall dealing with injuries. In Week 14, Davis scored a touchdown and added valuable receiving yards. While not a featured back, his ability to contribute in both the running and passing game makes him a strong option for deeper leagues. As long as Hall remains sidelined, Davis could continue to see significant involvement, especially in PPR formats. If you need a flex or injury replacement, Davis is a sneaky play heading into the fantasy playoffs.
Running Back: Kendrick Miller (New Orleans Saints)
Kendrick Miller made his presence known with a solid performance in Week 14, scoring a touchdown and adding 32 yards on 10 carries. As the Saints push for a playoff spot, Miller could see more opportunities in their backfield. The Saints have upcoming matchups against Washington, Green Bay, and the Raiders, which all offer favorable game scripts for Miller to continue producing. If you’re looking for a running back with touchdown upside, Miller is a great addition to your roster as he could see increased volume in the coming weeks.
Wide Receiver: Adam Thielen (Carolina Panthers)
Despite being 34 years old, Adam Thielen has been on a tear lately. He’s emerged as the Panthers’ top receiver and has posted impressive numbers, including 258 yards and 1 touchdown in the last three games. After recording his first 100-yard game of the season, Thielen looks poised to continue as a primary weapon for the Panthers, even with their struggles at quarterback. With matchups against the Cowboys in Week 15 and favorable games ahead, Thielen is a must-add if you’re in need of reliable production at wide receiver.
Wide Receiver: Alan Lazard (Green Bay Packers)
Alan Lazard is back on the radar as a potential flex play, particularly in deeper leagues. After returning from injury, he only saw one target in Week 14, but his relationship with Aaron Rodgers makes him a reliable red zone option. Lazard may not see heavy target volume, but his ability to score touchdowns makes him worth considering, especially if you’re in need of a low-risk, high-reward flex play. With the Packers still in playoff contention, Lazard could provide clutch performances down the stretch.
Wide Receiver: Michael Wilson (Arizona Cardinals)
Michael Wilson has carved out a steady role in the Arizona Cardinals’ offense, making him a great waiver wire target in Week 15. He has posted solid performances over the last two weeks, including 13 fantasy points against Seattle. With the Cardinals facing New England (Week 15), Carolina (Week 16), and the Rams (Week 17), Wilson’s role could continue to grow. He’s available in over 90% of ESPN leagues and is worth stashing, especially if you need a receiver for your playoff run.
Tight End: Pat Freiermuth (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Tight end is a volatile position, and if you’re searching for consistency in your lineup, Pat Freiermuth is your guy. The Steelers’ tight end has been a steady presence in the offense, particularly in the red zone. He has at least 48 yards in four of his last five games and has a touchdown in each of the last two weeks. With George Pickens potentially sidelined, Freiermuth could see an even bigger role. He’s not the flashiest tight end, but his consistent yardage and touchdown upside make him a solid, reliable option for fantasy owners in need of help at the position.
Final Thoughts:
As the fantasy playoffs unfold, every waiver wire pickup counts. Whether it’s securing QB depth with Sam Darnold, adding running back options like Patrick Taylor or Kendrick Miller, or reinforcing your receiving corps with Adam Thielen or Michael Wilson, these players could be the difference-makers you need to make a championship run.
Stay active, keep an eye on matchups, and most importantly—good luck in the playoffs! We hope you win!
