- Top 5 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Targets to Replace Stefon Diggs: Navigating Week 9 with Smart Picks*In fantasy football, one injury or unexpected event can change everything, and finding a replacement for a top-tier player like Stefon Diggs is no easy feat. Known for his elite consistency and big-play ability with the Buffalo Bills, Diggs is often a cornerstone of fantasy lineups. But whether he’s facing an unexpected injury or has a tough matchup on the horizon, securing a reliable backup can be crucial.
Fortunately, the waiver wire often holds hidden gems that, when used strategically, can help fantasy managers maintain their momentum even without a star player. Here are five smart waiver wire targets to help fill the void left by Stefon Diggs.
### 1. **Rashod Bateman – Baltimore Ravens**
Rashod Bateman, a former first-round pick for the Ravens, has been showing promise and gaining trust from quarterback Lamar Jackson. Though he’s not on Diggs’ level in terms of established production, Bateman is emerging as a dependable option in a Baltimore offense that’s becoming more balanced. Jackson’s passing game has improved, and Bateman’s athleticism and route-running ability make him a threat against most defenses.
Bateman is also seeing consistent targets, which is critical for fantasy relevance. As he continues to build rapport with Jackson, his fantasy output should only increase, making him a viable pickup for teams in need of receiver depth. With Bateman, you’re betting on high upside potential; if he can start producing consistently, he could become a valuable flex option or even a WR2 in favorable matchups.
### 2. **Romeo Doubs – Green Bay Packers**
Romeo Doubs has become a notable name in fantasy football circles this season, largely due to his chemistry with Packers quarterback Jordan Love. The Packers are relying heavily on young receivers, and Doubs is proving to be a reliable target, especially in the red zone. His solid hands and ability to make contested catches make him an appealing option for fantasy managers in need of a Diggs replacement.
Doubs’ ceiling might not match Diggs’, but his floor is relatively high due to his target share. Love has been building trust with Doubs, which bodes well for his weekly fantasy prospects. He’s especially useful in PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues where consistent targets add up, and his knack for finding the end zone only enhances his value.
### 3. **Joshua Palmer – Los Angeles Chargers**
With Mike Williams out for the season, Joshua Palmer has stepped up as a secondary target for Justin Herbert alongside Keenan Allen. Herbert’s arm strength and tendency to spread the ball make Palmer a player to watch. Palmer has proven he can be a reliable option with solid route-running and yards-after-catch ability, which makes him more than just a fill-in for Diggs; he has the potential to produce WR2 numbers in a high-powered offense.
Palmer is worth a priority waiver claim if he’s available. His role in the Chargers’ pass-heavy scheme gives him plenty of opportunities for targets, yards, and touchdowns. Given the Chargers’ schedule and Herbert’s ability to rack up passing yards, Palmer could become a key contributor down the stretch.
### 4. **Tank Dell – Houston Texans**
Rookie receiver Tank Dell has shown flashes of brilliance in the Texans’ offense, with explosive playmaking ability and quick feet that allow him to turn short catches into big gains. He’s developed impressive chemistry with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, who’s proven to be a promising passer in the NFL. Dell’s ability to stretch the field and his versatility make him an ideal waiver wire addition for managers looking to fill Diggs’ absence.
Dell’s usage has been a bit inconsistent, but when he’s involved, he can deliver huge fantasy performances. He’s a high-risk, high-reward option, so if you’re in need of a big play to swing a matchup, Dell is worth the gamble. His speed and agility make him difficult to defend, and if he continues to grow alongside Stroud, Dell could be a major fantasy contributor in the second half of the season.
### 5. **Jayden Reed – Green Bay Packers**
Jayden Reed may not yet be a household name, but he’s starting to carve out a role in the Packers’ offense as a dependable target for Jordan Love. Like Doubs, Reed benefits from Green Bay’s youthful receiving corps and Love’s tendency to spread the ball around. Reed’s quickness and ability to separate make him a valuable asset, especially in short-yardage situations.
While his fantasy ceiling might be lower than some others on this list, Reed offers a decent floor, especially in PPR formats. He’s likely to see a steady share of targets, and his production could ramp up as the season progresses and Love grows more comfortable in his role. Reed’s best value is as a solid WR3 or flex option, and he’s worth stashing for depth or as a bye-week filler.
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### Honorable Mentions
Sometimes, the waiver wire pool varies greatly based on your league’s size, so here are a few honorable mentions to consider if the top options aren’t available:
– **Josh Downs (Indianapolis Colts):** Downs has shown flashes of potential with big plays and deep targets from Gardner Minshew, especially when the Colts need to air it out.
– **Rashid Shaheed (New Orleans Saints):** Shaheed is a boom-or-bust option but can deliver massive fantasy points when he hits. His deep-ball potential makes him a high-risk, high-reward pickup.
– **Michael Wilson (Arizona Cardinals):** Wilson has been a surprise performer, putting up occasional big games and carving out a role in the Cardinals’ offense.
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### Tips for Success on the Waiver Wire
Finding the perfect replacement for Stefon Diggs may be challenging, but here are some waiver wire strategies to keep in mind:
1. **Prioritize Target Volume**: Focus on receivers who see regular targets, as this often translates into more consistent fantasy production.
2. **Watch Injury Reports**: Players can quickly rise in value if a teammate in front of them on the depth chart gets injured, so keep an eye on injury reports to get ahead of the competition.
3. **Consider Matchups**: Look for receivers with favorable matchups in the upcoming weeks, as weaker defenses can often lead to breakout games.
4. **Stay Active**: The waiver wire can shift quickly week-to-week, so consistently check for emerging players to stay one step ahead.
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### Final Thoughts
Replacing Stefon Diggs is no easy feat, but these five waiver wire targets can help bridge the gap. Rashod Bateman, Romeo Doubs, Joshua Palmer, Tank Dell, and Jayden Reed each offer unique advantages, from high-target volumes to big-play potential. Whether you’re looking for a safe floor or a high-risk, high-reward option, these players can offer immediate support and, if the stars align, may even carry you through the fantasy playoffs.
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