Wed Oct 22 05:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Fantasy Football: 10 Under-the-Radar Players to Watch as Injuries Mount

Fantasy football managers are always looking for an edge, especially as injuries begin to impact rosters. While flashy plays from seldom-used players can be exciting, consistency is key. However, ignoring potential breakout players lurking on the waiver wire could be a mistake.

Here are 10 players to put on your fantasy radar, particularly in deeper leagues, who could become valuable assets as the season progresses:

Tight Ends:

  • Daniel Johnson (NYG): With Jaxson Dart at QB, Johnson has become a surprising target, averaging 12.2 PPG over the past three games with three touchdowns. His size and versatility in the Giants’ offense make him a potential matchup piece.

  • Drake Helm (TEN): Despite a coaching change in Tennessee, Helm’s role could grow as a multilevel target for Cam Ward. His coverage awareness and quickness make him a potential deeper-league pickup.

  • Erik Gadsden (LAC): Coming off his best game as a pro, Gadsden’s usage may be rising in the Chargers’ offense. His catch radius and after-the-catch ability make him a smart target for deeper-league managers, especially given the inconsistency at the tight end position.

Wide Receivers:

  • Jaxon Bond (CLE): Despite inconsistent quarterback play, Bond offers a vertical element to the Browns’ offense and is getting more opportunities with Cedric Tillman injured. If Gabriel develops and the offense becomes more aggressive, Bond could emerge as a WR3.

  • Cornelius Burden (CHI): Burden saw increased volume in the Bears’ win over the Commanders. With potential opportunities arising from Moore’s groin injury, Burden’s catch-and-run skills could make him a valuable asset in an ascending Bears’ offense.

  • Jalin Pierce (IND): Pierce’s value rises as a vertical target in the Colts’ offense. He’s averaging 19.9 YPC and gives you some upside as a big-play option.

  • Jahdae Higgins (HOU): Higgins has the talent to break out, and he’s a fit in the Houston offense. After a slow start, Higgins has shown flashes, and he’s worth keeping an eye on.

  • Trey Johnson (TB): With a barrage of injuries plaguing the Bucs’ receiving corps, Johnson could see a bump in reps. His ability to win in space makes him a boom-or-bust option in an offense with Mayfield.

Running Backs:

  • Ryke Wilson (GB): As the Packers’ No. 2 running back, Wilson is an injury away from a significant role in Matt LaFleur’s run-heavy offense.

  • Keaton Smith (KC): Smith’s versatility in Andy Reid’s offense makes him a player to watch. He is one play away from seeing more carries if Isiah Pacheco or Kareem Hunt were to miss time.

By monitoring these players, fantasy managers can gain a crucial advantage and be prepared to make impactful waiver wire moves when the opportunity arises.

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