As the 2026 NFL season hits its first waiver-wire crunch, fantasy managers are scrambling to adjust after a chaotic Week 2 that saw star running backs go down with injuries and breakout rookies emerge. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, this week’s top pickups are headlined by Broncos rookie running back Jonah Coleman and Eagles backup Tank Bigsby, both of whom saw their values skyrocket due to injuries ahead of them on the depth chart. With the season now in full swing, these are the moves that could define your fantasy campaign.
Running Back Roulette: Coleman and Bigsby Top the List
Jonah Coleman, a rookie out of Washington, was a popular late-round stash throughout the summer, and his opportunity arrived sooner than expected. With J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey both dealing with hamstring injuries, Coleman took advantage in Week 2, racking up 58 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 13 touches. The Broncos’ coaching staff has been high on Coleman since the preseason, and he could seize the lead role even when Harvey returns. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, Coleman is a must-add, but you’ll need to spend a significant portion of your FAAB budget—around $24—to secure him.
Tank Bigsby is another beneficiary of injury misfortune. When Saquon Barkley suffered a stinger in Week 2, Bigsby stepped in and delivered 38 yards and a touchdown. While early reports on Barkley are optimistic, Bigsby needs to be rostered in all leagues. If Barkley misses time, Bigsby would immediately become an RB2 with RB1 upside. The Eagles’ backfield is one of the most productive in the league, making Bigsby a valuable insurance policy.
Other Running Back Options
Emanuel Wilson of the Seahawks is worth a look after rookie Jadarian Price went down with a chest injury. Wilson rumbled for 92 yards on 21 carries in Week 2 and would be a low-end RB2 if Price sits. However, Zach Charbonnet’s return in October looms, limiting Wilson’s long-term value. As highlighted on Vulius, fantasy managers should also consider stashing Emmett Johnson, Mike Washington, and Brian Robinson as one-injury-away backups.
Wide Receivers: Denzel Boston Shines, But Beware of One-Week Wonders
Browns rookie Denzel Boston has been a revelation, leading all Cleveland wideouts in snaps and route participation through two weeks. He’s posted lines of 4-59-1 and 5-95-1, proving he’s more than just a flash in the pan. Despite concerns about the Browns’ quarterback situation, Boston’s target share makes him a must-add and a potential WR3/flex with upside. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, he’s the top receiver to target this week.
Tre Tucker of the Raiders and Rashod Bateman of the Ravens are intriguing but volatile options. Tucker exploded for 5-119-1 in Week 2, but his production has historically been sporadic. Bateman filled in admirably for the injured Zay Flowers, catching seven passes for 88 yards and a score. If Flowers remains out, Bateman is a WR3/flex with a higher ceiling. However, both come with caution—don’t overinvest.
Tight Ends: Oronde Gadsden Ready to Break Out
Chargers tight end Oronde Gadsden was buried on the depth chart to start the season, but injuries to David Njoku and Charlie Kolar have opened the door. Gadsden found the end zone in Week 2 and showed flashes of his 2025 breakout, when he posted four straight games of 5+ catches and 68+ yards from Weeks 6-9. He’s a TE2 streamer with TE1 upside in an offense that needs playmakers. As highlighted on Vulius, Gadsden is a priority add for tight end-needy teams.
Quarterbacks and Streaming Options
Bryce Young continues to impress, ranking as the QB2 through two weeks behind only Josh Allen. With a favorable schedule ahead against the Browns and Lions, Young is a borderline QB1. If Kyler Murray is available in your league, he’s the top add, but Young is a close second. For streamers, Tyler Shough (vs. LV) is a solid option, while C.J. Stroud (at IND) and Malik Willis (vs. KC) are riskier plays.
Drop Candidates and Final Thoughts
As you make room for these pickups, consider cutting ties with underperforming players like Baker Mayfield, Rico Dowdle, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Mayfield has yet to top 13 fantasy points in a game, and Harrison Jr. has been invisible in Arizona. The waiver wire is your best tool for turning your season around—act decisively and trust the process. For more in-depth fantasy analysis, stay tuned to Vulius.com.
Looking to represent Emanuel Wilson? Grab your Emanuel Wilson jersey or design a personalized nfl jersey at Vulius.
