In fantasy football, timing is everything. You don't win your league at the draft table -- you win it week-by-week using smart waiver wire decisions. Speaking of, Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season is already full of surprises: injuries and breakout performances. Who's the unexpected star who could change your entire season?
Now it's time to get into the best waiver wire players to claim today. Using rankings, analysis, and why they could be game changers for your fantasy team.
Top Waiver Wire Rankings – Week 3 (2025)
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(Note: Player names used as examples based on recent fantasy buzz; adapt to your league’s availability.)
Why These Players Matter In Week 3
Injury creates opportunity - Already many teams are facing weeks without their stars playing due to injury. Backups suddenly have value.
Matchups matter - A good player facing a soft defence is a one week win.
Breakouts happen fast - If you wait too long, that unknown WR or rookie RB is already in your opponent's lineup.
Best RBs To Claim
Running backs are typically the priority among waiver wire pickups. In Week 3, injuries to some key players have opened up opportunities for the backups to produce.
Jaylen Wright (Falcons) – A rookie with an explosive skill set and speed will likely see double-digit touches this week.
Tyjae Spears (Titans) – His workload has increased recently and he is currently in the flex starter territory.
Elijah Mitchell (49ers) – He is the injury replacement for Christian McCaffrey, but will also see work in blowouts.
Best WRs To Claim
Some receivers are having unexpected breakout weeks.
Jalen McMillan (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) – He is emerging as a deep threat.
Josh Downs (Indianapolis Colts) – He is being targeted in short-yard situations and will be effective in PPR leagues.
Khalil Shakir (Buffalo Bills) – They use him for the long pass, is a good option for bye weeks.
Best QBs To Stream
If your starter is not playing well or is hurt, these candidates could be useful:
Will Levis (Titans) – He has a good matchup this week.
Sam Darnold (Vikings) - If you can find him on the wire, he has good options around him.
Gardner Minshew (Raiders) - A risk, but if you need a one-week flyer he has a good ceiling.
Troy Franklin is proving to be more than just a deep threat, making him a dangerous fantasy weapon.
— Roto Street Journal (@RotoStJournal) September 17, 2025
Pick up this potential league-winner off the Week 3 Waiver Wire 🚀 https://t.co/yPXaiF2IQB
Defenses To Stream
Smart defensive selections can one you a week.
Browns DEF – Facing a team that is prone to turnovers.
Jets DEF – Can sack the quarterback and create takeaways.
Saints DEF – Solid matchup in Week 3 and a great streaming option.
Waiver Wire Strategy Tips
Continuously prioritize RBs – scarcity makes them more valuable.
Think ahead — do more than check Week 3 and check Week 4 and 5 matchups.
Don’t chase points blindly — consider potential for consistent opportunity.
Be astute with FAAB – don’t blow your budget too early.
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