Following the conclusion of Week 3 of the NFL season on Sept. 30, 2026, fantasy football managers are actively reshaping their rosters via the waiver wire amid a wave of notable injuries, unexpected production spikes, and disappointing outings. Key backfield shifts, such as Miami Dolphins running back De’von Achane being ruled out for the season, have forced managers to look closely at available talent to salvage their lineups.
Top Waiver Wire Pickups After Week 3
Finding immediate production on the waiver wire remains a priority as bye weeks and injuries mount. Several players have emerged as primary targets following their performances in Week 3.
Kalif Raymond Drives Detroit’s Receiving Game
Despite a crowded roster featuring Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III, Zavion Thomas, and Colston Loveland, Kalif Raymond has emerged as the leading receiver for Chicago through the first three weeks of the season. In Week 3, working with quarterback Case Keenum amidst offensive uncertainty, Raymond hauled in six receptions for 90 yards and a 41-yard touchdown. Currently rostered in just 10.3 percent of ESPN leagues, Raymond sits comfortably as a top-15 fantasy receiver.
Sam Darnold Steps Up in Seattle
Returning from a glute injury, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold put up 379 passing yards and four touchdowns in a loss to the Washington Commanders. Benefiting from throwing to Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Darnold presents a strong streaming option for managers needing quarterback help, particularly with an upcoming matchup against the winless Los Angeles Chargers.
Ollie Gordon II Takes Over Miami’s Backfield
With De’von Achane sidelined for the remainder of the season, Ollie Gordon II stepped into the leading running back role for the Miami Dolphins. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, Gordon recorded 17 rushing attempts for 41 yards and a touchdown, alongside three receptions for 14 yards. While his 2.4 yards per carry leaves room for improvement, the heavy workload of 17 touches signals secure volume for fantasy purposes, though a tough upcoming matchup against the Minnesota Vikings looms.
Noah Fant Emerges as Red-Zone Target in New Orleans
New Orleans Saints tight end Noah Fant is rostered in only 0.2 percent of ESPN leagues, functioning as a boom-or-bust option at a volatile position. While he operates behind the team’s primary tight end, quarterback Tyler Shough has consistently targeted Fant in the red zone. Fant has secured three touchdowns on the season, including two during Week 3.
Keenan Allen Steps in for Indianapolis
Indianapolis Colts receiver Keenan Allen stepped up in the absence of Alec Pierce during Week 3, catching six passes for 63 yards and a touchdown against the Houston Texans.
Performance Shifts and Notable Busts
Week 3 also brought unexpected regression from several heavily drafted players. Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan managed only two catches for 17 yards against the Cleveland Browns after posting at least five receptions and 75 yards in each of his first two games. Houston Texans running back David Montgomery struggled to produce points despite facing a porous run defense, while teammate Dalton Schultz pulled in just three catches following a 12-reception outing the previous week.