The 2025 NFL season is finally here, and as we all know, fantasy championships aren’t won on draft day—they’re won on the waiver wire. Injuries, unexpected busts, and surprise breakouts are all part of the game. Whether you’re contending for a title or rebuilding for the future, smart waiver pickups can shape your roster for years to come. Each week, we will break down waiver players that could make an immediate impact or become valuable assets down the stretch. Please note, all roster ownerships will be based on 12-Team SF PPR dynasty leagues.
Waiver Players to Add | Week 1
Quarterback Free Agents
Spencer Rattler | New Orleans Saints | 10% FAAB
Spencer Rattler was named the New Orleans Saints starting quarterback after beating out rookie Tyler Shough. It is unknown how long Rattler will hold onto the starting job, but Rattler has a good matchup in Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. Obviously, Rattler is more valuable in SuperFlex leagues than in 1QB leagues.
Running Back Free Agents
Chris Rodriguez | Washington Commanders | 5% FAAB
While Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Austin Ekeler are the biggest beneficiaries of the Brian Robinson trade, Chris Rodriguez is also a sneaky winner. Washington head coach Dan Quinn said that Rodriguez will get some short-yardage usage, which could translate to valuable goal-line work. At 5’11” 225 lbs., Rodriguez is built like a bulldozer and has tremendous “sleeper” appeal.
Wide Receiver Free Agents
Darius Slayton | New York Giants | 1% FAAB
The fantasy community has constantly overlooked Darius Slayton for essentially his entire career. Slayton has surpassed 700 receiving yards in 4 of his 6 NFL seasons and has the potential to be the top receiving option behind Malik Nabers. Garret Price is the only Dynasty Nerds ranker to rank Slayton in their top 250, making him essentially free on the waiver wire.
Hunter Renfrow | Carolina Panthers | 1% FAAB
Hunter Renfrow is back with Carolina after their wide receiver room dramatically changed over the past week. Jalen Coker was placed on Injured Reserve, and Adam Thielen is now reunited with his former team, the Minnesota Vikings. While there is an opportunity for Renfrow, I would not break the bank to acquire him.
Malik Washington | Miami Dolphins | 5-10% FAAB
When I die, I would like my tombstone to read Malik Washington truther. If you read my Dynasty Trade Secrets series or my Keep Trade Cut article, you would know my love for Washington. Washington has emerged as Miami’s No. 3 receiver, behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. With the uncertain future of Hill’s role with the team, Washington has the chance for a substantial role in the offense. Washington is my top target among the wide receivers.
Some other options that are good waiver wire additions include: Amari Cooper, Dameon Pierce, and Olllie Gordon. Cooper and Pierce could be available in your dynasty rosters as they have had a substantial drop off in their careers, but both are in situations that could lend to a fantasy resurrection. However, Ollie Gordon was likely selected in your rookie drafts in either the 4th or 5th rounds.
Best of the Waiver Players
Ollie Gordon II | RB | Miami Dolphins
Gordon had a very strong preseason and has emerged as the backup to De’Von Achane while fellow running back Jaylen Wright is dealing with an injury. Gordon has been running with conviction and looks like the 2023 version of himself, the one who won the Doak Walker Award while rushing for over 1,700 yards and 21 touchdowns at Oklahoma State. Start your trade negotiations with a 2026 third-round pick for Gordon, but do not be afraid to adjust to a 2026 second-round pick if needed to acquire him. In fact, I recently completed a trade with Garret Price in our Nerds App League, where I sent a 2026 second-round pick.
Thank you Nerds and make sure you check back next week for more under-the-radar gems and difference-makers to keep your roster sharp and your season alive and your dynasty rosters thriving.
