Fantasy Football Week 7 Waiver Pickups

This isn’t easy, that’s for sure. As a fantasy owner, you’re the owner, general manager and head coach combined. Maybe even the commissioner, and surely the one measly fan of your team. Choosing who sits and who starts each weak is agonizing. Waiver wire shopping can be daunting too. But when you get it right, it feels pretty good, doesn’t it? Now raise your hand if you started Mohamed Sanu or Joe Flacco. Very well done. And if you started Brandon LaFell or Antone Smith, you are a genius. Or a liar.  

Cheers to the geniuses – and the liars too. And, because I care, here’s a little help with this week’s shopping list:

Mohamed Sanu, WR, Cincinnati Bengals – I expected an uptick in Sanu’s production on Sunday, but not quite this much. With A.J. Green sidelined, Sanu delivered with 11 receptions for 120 yards and a touchdown. Both Green and Marvin Jones are expected to sit out week 7, so count on another red hot Sanu when the Bengals face Indy on Sunday. Sanu is still available in 40 percent of leagues.

Ronnie Hillman, RB, Denver Broncos – Fantasyland wasn’t sure exactly how this would shake out with so many options. But on Sunday, Hillman was the featured back with Montee Ball sidelined for 3-4 weeks. Hillman rushed for 100 yards on 24 carries, and added three receptions for 16 yards. Look for Hillman to continue the lead role until Ball returns.

Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants – While Beckham didn’t match his week 5 performance of 44 yards and a touchdown, Victor Cruz’s injury means Beckham will be inserted into a starting role. Consider Beckham a WR2-3.  

Tim Wright, TE, New England Patriots – If you’re going to catch only one pass, for one little yard, the end zone is a good place. And that’s what Wright did on Sunday. The Pats tight end, who has two touchdowns in two weeks, may not get a lot of looks, but red zone territory is what matters. Consider Wright a good add for deep leagues or bye weeks.

Storm Johnson, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars – Look, I wouldn’t rush for this pickup. I’m trying to stay away from Jaguars (and Vikings too). Yes, Johnson scored a touchdown, but his 10 carries amounted for only 21 yards on Sunday. Still, he’s worth an add if you’re hurting at RB. Toby Gerhart’s ineffectiveness means more opportunities for Stormy.

Antone Smith, RB, Atlanta Falcons – Yes, Steven Jackson is the lead back in Atlanta, but you have to wonder how much longer. With Jackson’s numbers declining, and Smith putting together 40-, 50- and 60-yard touchdowns, it’s only a matter of time before Smith works himself into a more prominent role.   Consider Smith an investment pick.

Cleveland DEF – Keeping the Steelers to 10 points should get your attention. Oh, but yes, they don’t really force a lot of turnovers. But wait, their next three opponents are Jacksonville, Oakland and Tampa Bay. Have fun with that, streamers.

Erin Skelley joins Texans Radio every week on SportsRadio 610. Follow her on Twitter @erinskelley. She’ll babble fantasy to anyone who will listen.