As the NFL kicks off its 2026 season on September 10, fantasy football managers are scrambling to adjust their lineups after a brutal wave of injuries. The latest shockwave came with the news that Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers underwent meniscus trim surgery on Tuesday and will miss 1-2 games. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, this development opens the door for a savvy waiver wire addition: teammate Michael Mayer. With the Raiders set to face the Miami Dolphins in Week 1, Mayer, rostered in just 11% of leagues, could be the perfect plug-and-play option.
Michael Mayer: The Obvious Beneficiary
Mayer, a second-round pick in 2023 out of Notre Dame, was the most productive receiving tight end in Fighting Irish history. He flashed his potential late last season with an 8-catch, 89-yard performance against the New York Giants in December. Now, with Bowers sidelined, Mayer steps into a prominent role in an offense that new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has revamped. Quarterback Kirk Cousins has historically leaned on his tight ends, and the Dolphins struggled mightily against tight ends in 2025. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, Mayer is the cleanest beneficiary and a must-add in all formats.
Tyler Shough: A Rising Star in Detroit
New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough finished his rookie campaign with a six-game stretch that turned heads, posting QB12, QB6, QB16, QB16, QB9, and QB4 finishes. Head coach Kellen Moore runs a creative, up-tempo offense that boosts volume, and Shough has reliable weapons in wide receiver Chris Olave and tight end Juwan Johnson. The Week 1 matchup against the Detroit Lions is tantalizing: the game total is set at 50.5, the highest on the slate, and the Lions will be without impact safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph for at least a month. Expect a shootout in Detroit, making Shough a high-upside streamer.
Woody Marks and Keaton Mitchell: Running Back Depth
In Houston, the Texans acquired veteran David Montgomery to be their starter, but at age 29, he'll need a breather. Second-year back Woody Marks, rostered in 50% of leagues, averaged just 3.6 yards per carry as a rookie but was a prolific receiver in college (261 receptions). The Texans expanded his route tree this summer, and he could carve out a significant pass-catching role. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Chargers' Keaton Mitchell (41% rostered) has impressed new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, though a hamstring injury slowed him in August. With the Chargers favored by 9.5 points over the Cardinals, game script could favor Mitchell's explosive skill set if he's healthy.
Wide Receiver Sleepers: Tre Tucker and Khalil Shakir
With Bowers out, the Raiders also need someone to step up in the passing game. Tre Tucker, rostered in 31% of leagues, is ostensibly the No. 1 wide receiver in Las Vegas and will face a Dolphins secondary that could be the worst in football. Tucker's speed and Kubiak's creative scheme make him a intriguing flex play. In Buffalo, Khalil Shakir (44% rostered) remains a reliable slot option despite the addition of D.J. Moore. Last November, Shakir torched the Texans for 8 catches and 110 yards, and while Houston's defense is formidable, Shakir's rapport with Josh Allen gives him a safe floor in PPR formats.
Final Thoughts for Week 1
As the 2026 season begins, fantasy managers should keep an open mind and dig deep for undervalued assets. While it's tempting to rely on proven studs early on, injuries like Bowers' create immediate opportunities. Whether you're replacing a fallen star or seeking a DFS dart throw, these sleepers could provide the edge you need. Stay tuned to Vulius for weekly fantasy insights and analysis throughout the season.
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