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This week's topic is geared more toward those in deeper leagues with 12+ teams and 18+ roster spots. Some comments and thoughts will still apply to others who don't specifically fit those criteria, but for the most part, this is for those with limited choices on the waiver wire.

This week, I want to focus on some proactive waiver wire claims that could propel your team forward if one or more of these pickups hit. We often see a waiver gem help teams in the playoffs, and this year should be no different. Remember that a proactive waiver claim isn't intended to be a quick solution but more of a shark move that can potentially boost your lineup. Examples of notable waiver pickups from this year include Cade Otton, Jordan Mason, Bucky Irving, Tyrone Tracy Jr., Tank Bigsby, Cedric Tillman, etc. Several of these players have made a sizeable impact on rosters everywhere. Last year, players like Jordan Love, and Raheem Mostert fit these criteria and were instrumental in helping many fantasy rosters in the stretch run in 2023. These waiver pickups weren't expected to amount to much when picked up, but the potential for success was there. Making good on such moves can fix or strengthen your team and/or your season. Many players have already made themselves known, but that doesn't mean others won't appear. Here's a look at some players to target at each position.

Proactive & Reactive Waiver Pickups

Quarterback

Drake Maye, New England - The Patriots rookie signal-caller is the 8th ranked fantasy quarterback in the last four weeks. He has produced average numbers as a passer, but his rushing totals have elevated his standing. His 197 yards rushing leads the league in that span. He is someone to consider if you need help at quarterback.

Cooper Rush, Dallas - The Cowboys will be without Dak Prescott for several weeks while he recovers from a hamstring injury. Rush is 5-1 as a starter, all for Dallas. He has shown the ability to make plays when given the chance and he has established a good downfield rapport with CeeDee Lamb. 

Bo Nix, Denver - Bo Nix has come on strong over the last four weeks scoring nine touchdowns to go along with 176 yards rushing. He is at that point where he has about a 50% chance of scoring a rushing touchdown in a game. If you combine that with adequate quarterback play, you have a top 10 fantasy quarterback. Over the last four weeks he is the QB8. 

Joe Flacco, Indianapolis - The Colts have elected to go with Joe Flacco under center to try to save or salvage their season. Aside from the game at Minnesota last week, Flacco has been solid for the Colts this season scoring at least two touchdowns a game in his three starts. He is worth a look if you need a quarterback. 

Jameis Winston, Cleveland - The Browns have their bye this week, but then will face New Orleans in Week 11. Things get touch after that with a home and home series with Pittsburgh with a trip to Denver in the middle. Winston isn't the best option of the group mentioned because of his schedule, but you might be able to get one decent week when the Browns play the rudderless Saints in Week 11. 

Bryce Young, Carolina - Bryce Young has elevated his game since being benched after Week 2. He is starting to gain confidence and the Panthers are getting some key players back after injury. Carolina plays the Giants in Germany this week, followed by a bye and then the schedule becomes problematic with home games against the Chiefs and Buccaneers, followed by a trip to Philadelphia. He is not a better pickup than the other aforementioned quarterbacks, but he may be on the verge of turning a corner, which has some merit.