Fantasy football managers heading into Week 17—the championship round for many leagues—have a critical opportunity to optimize their lineups. Here are three potential waiver-wire targets to consider for bolstering your roster:
Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers (7% rostered)
The narrative surrounding Bryce Young has shifted drastically. Earlier in the season, he looked far from NFL-ready, even being benched. But his resurgence, highlighted by an impressive Week 16 performance, has silenced doubters. Against the Cardinals, Young completed 65.4% of his passes for 158 yards and two touchdowns through the air, while adding 68 rushing yards and another touchdown. His dual-threat ability was on full display in the Panthers’ 36-30 victory.
Week 17 offers another promising matchup as Young faces the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a team familiar with high-scoring games. Young will undoubtedly aim to finish the season strong and solidify his position as Carolina’s starting quarterback. He’s particularly appealing for managers in SuperFlex or two-QB leagues or for anyone chasing a late-season trophy.
Chig Okonkwo, TE, Tennessee Titans (6% rostered)
Tight end Chig Okonkwo has often shown flashes of potential, but consistency has eluded him due to Tennessee’s lackluster passing game. However, recent weeks have hinted at a turnaround. In Week 16, Okonkwo had his best outing of the season, recording nine receptions on 11 targets for 81 yards and a two-point conversion. This followed a solid Week 15 performance, where he caught eight of 10 targets for 59 yards.
With a strong connection forming between Okonkwo and quarterback Mason Rudolph, he has emerged as the second option in the Titans’ receiving game behind Calvin Ridley. Facing a fantasy-friendly Jacksonville Jaguars defense in Week 17, Okonkwo is a viable streaming option for tight-end-needy managers.
Devaughn Vele, WR, Denver Broncos (13% rostered)
The Broncos will be pushing hard for a win in Week 17 to improve their playoff position. Rookie wideout Devaughn Vele has been quietly climbing the depth chart and could play a key role. While his Week 16 stats were modest (two receptions for 21 yards and a touchdown), he faces a tantalizing matchup against the Bengals, a team that has consistently allowed big games to opposing receivers.
In what promises to be a high-scoring shootout with Joe Burrow leading Cincinnati’s offense, Vele is a desperation flex option worth considering.
