Let's take a quick look at a few linebackers, defensive linemen, and defensive backs who are either good grab-and-stash types or those that you should target in trades. Hope you enjoy the article and it opens your eyes to some of the gems that can be found on your leagues' waiver wires!
Linebackers
Benardrick McKinney (NYG): So far he hasn’t really posted anything of note stat-wise, but he was once useful fantasy-wise and there’s room in the Giants linebacker room especially with Blake Martinez shelved for the season. He’s not worth grabbing just yet, but if the snap counts start to rise now that the Giants have had their bye week, he may be an option in bigger leagues. Worth keeping an eye on for sure.
Elandon Roberts (MIA): He’s 27 so this is more of a win-now add suggestion, but what we like about Roberts is his ability to rack up tackles and post big play stats to boot. He’s yet to have his bye week which is a ding on his value, but there’s a stretch of games here where he could post LB3 type numbers. Grab him if you’re struggling to find consistency.
Blake Lynch (MIN): Anthony Barr is struggling to stay on the field this season, so Lynch has been given a shot at replacing the veteran’s fantasy production. If Barr continues to miss time, Lynch could play a prominent role alongside Eric Kendricks.
Defensive Linemen
D.J. Jones (DT – SFO): The big guy had an off Week 10, but mainly because the Rams were throwing the ball so much to keep up with the Niners. Had the Rams run a bit more, Jones’ stats may have looked more like they did in Weeks 8 and 9, where he tallied double digits in both contests. Jones may have the opportunity to eat up space in the middle of the Niners’ line in a few more games this season, so if you’re in a league that separates DT from DL, he’s a great add.
Dawuane Smoot (DE – JAC): Smoot has three pretty solid efforts in a row, and has a few nice matchups coming up. He’s got 3.5 sacks on the season and could easily double that number in the next month. Playing opposite Josh Allen allows Smoot to see plenty of opportunities.
Defensive Backs
DeAndre Houston-Carson (S – CHI) If Eddie Jackson continues to miss time (and even if he returns), DAHC could continue to post solid tackle stats and pass breakups. Great matchup against the Ravens this week, so if you’re looking for a one-week fill-in, this could help you.
Ugo Amadi (CB– SEA): Amadi has 14 solos and a pair of pass breakups in his past two games. Look for that trend to continue against the Cardinals this week. There are a few more good matchups left for the 24-year old out of Oregon, too.
Jordan Whitehead (S – TB): Whitehead is proving that there are tackles and big plays to be had in the Buc backfield even with Antoine Winfield, Jr. back there. Whitehead is just 24, so those with room on their DTS could certainly stash, or if you need him now, the matchups ahead look good for future production.