Week 1 Waiver Wire: Setting the Stage
Welcome to the first edition of our 2026 weekly Waiver Wire column! This is a practice/preview article showcasing the format we'll use every Tuesday during the regular season. Player recommendations below are based on current ADP data and projected 2026 scenarios.
Each Tuesday, we'll break down the top waiver wire targets into priority tiers with FAB% recommendations so you know exactly how much to bid.
Must Add (FAB: 15-25%)
Pat Bryant, WR — Denver Broncos
Bryant has been climbing ADP boards all offseason (currently ADP 45) but could still be available in many leagues. With Bo Nix entering his second year and Denver's offense projected to take a leap, Bryant profiles as a breakout candidate who could deliver WR2 numbers from your bench. Why he's available: Second-year receiver without a proven track record yet. Why to grab him: Denver's passing game projects to expand significantly, and Bryant could see 100+ targets if he wins the WR1 role.
Justin Shorter, WR — Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders overhauled their roster this offseason, and Shorter (ADP 50) could be the primary beneficiary of Fernando Mendoza's arrival as the #1 overall pick. A new franchise quarterback typically elevates everyone around him. Why he's available: The Raiders' offense has been a fantasy wasteland for years. Why to grab him: New regime, new QB, and Shorter has the physical tools to be Mendoza's top target.
Bryce Ford-Wheaton, WR — New York Giants
With Jaxson Dart under center and Malik Nabers drawing top coverage, Ford-Wheaton (ADP 44) could feast as the secondary option. His size and red zone presence make him a potential touchdown machine. Why he's available: Overshadowed by Nabers in most draft conversations. Why to grab him: Could see significant red zone work as the Giants' WR2.
Strong Add (FAB: 8-15%)
RJ Harvey, RB — Denver Broncos
Harvey (ADP 55) enters his second NFL season with a real shot at a featured role in Denver's backfield. If he wins the starting job in camp, he could be a league-winner at his current price. Why he's available: Rookie running backs often take time to develop, and the depth chart isn't settled. Why to grab him: Could inherit a workhorse role in an improving offense.
Jauan Jennings, WR — San Francisco 49ers
Jennings (ADP 46) has been a reliable target in San Francisco's offense and projects for a solid floor in 2026. With Christian McCaffrey potentially seeing reduced passing work as he ages, Jennings could see increased volume. Why he's available: Not a sexy pick — he won't win you your league in a single week. Why to grab him: Consistency wins fantasy leagues. Jennings projects for a reliable 10-15 PPR points weekly.
Tyler Shough, QB — New Orleans Saints
Shough (ADP 51) is an intriguing quarterback streamer option in Week 1 depending on matchup. If the Saints draw a favorable defensive opponent, he could provide QB1 upside at a QB2 price. Why he's available: Unproven as a full-time starter. Why to grab him: The Saints' weapons (Chris Olave, Juwan Johnson) could elevate his fantasy floor.
Deep League Stash (FAB: 1-5%)
Blake Corum, RB — Los Angeles Rams
Corum (ADP 46) sits behind Kyren Williams on the depth chart but could hold standalone value if Williams misses time. He's the kind of handcuff who could win you a week.
Chris Godwin, WR — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Godwin (ADP 56) is coming off an injury-impacted 2025 but has WR2 upside when healthy. At his current price, he's a buy-low candidate with significant return potential.
Rome Odunze, WR — Chicago Bears
Odunze (ADP 51) could break out in year two with Caleb Williams. If the Bears' offense clicks, Odunze has top-24 receiver upside.
Emeka Egbuka, WR — Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Egbuka (ADP 40) is still relatively affordable for a player in a high-volume passing attack. With Baker Mayfield projecting for another strong season, Egbuka could outperform his draft position.
How to Use This Column
Every Tuesday during the season, we'll update this with the hottest waiver wire targets based on the previous week's games. We'll include:
- Snap count data from the weekend - Target share trends that signal emerging value - Injury replacements worth grabbing immediately - FAB recommendations based on remaining season value
Bookmark this page and check back every Tuesday morning to get ahead of your league-mates.
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