Top Running Back Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 13 Action

As Week 12 concludes, fantasy football managers turn their attention to potential waiver wire pickups for Week 13. With several key running backs suffering injuries, including the New Orleans Saints’ Alvin Kamara, this week’s landscape presents valuable opportunities for savvy players.

Devin Neal: A Prime Addition

The situation surrounding Alvin Kamara is concerning. He sustained a knee injury during Week 12 and may miss upcoming games. If Kamara is sidelined, Devin Neal is poised to take over as the starting running back for the Saints. Although the severity of Kamara’s injury remains unclear, the schedule ahead looks favorable for Neal. Over the remaining five weeks of the fantasy season, the Saints will face teams that rank in the bottom half of the league in terms of limiting fantasy running backs. Notably, the Miami Dolphins in Week 13, Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 14, Carolina Panthers in Week 15, New York Jets in Week 16, and Tennessee Titans in championship week are all on the agenda.

The Dolphins are allowing the ninth-most fantasy points to running backs this season, while the Buccaneers are close behind, allowing the tenth-most. The Panthers have given up the eleventh-most, the Jets the thirteenth-most, and the Titans the seventh-most. Given these matchups, securing Neal is a smart move for any fantasy manager anticipating Kamara’s absence.

Additional Options for Waiver Wire Consideration

Another running back gaining attention is Chris Rodriguez of the Washington Commanders. He has recently taken over as the starting running back, performing impressively with 33 carries for 160 yards and two touchdowns across the last three games. With the Commanders coming off a bye week, Rodriguez may be available on waiver wires. His competitor, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, has struggled to keep pace and is unlikely to reclaim a significant role.

For those looking for a potential flex option, Dylan Sampson of the Cleveland Browns showed promise in Week 12. He recorded seven carries for 23 yards and caught a 66-yard touchdown pass, showcasing his upside. While he may not be a weekly starter, he could serve as a valuable handcuff with potential in PPR formats.

From the Miami Dolphins, Ollie Gordon II stands out as a solid handcuff for De’Von Achane. Over the past month, Gordon has been involved in the goal-line work, totaling 111 yards and two touchdowns during two of the last four games. However, his performance has varied, so managers should consider his lower floor when contemplating a pickup.

Finally, Devin Singletary of the New York Giants has emerged as a notable option. Over the last two weeks, he has carried the ball 30 times for 91 yards and two touchdowns, alongside a three-yard catch. While Tyrone Tracy Jr. currently leads the backfield with 39 carries, Singletary remains a crucial goal-line presence, making him a valuable asset for fantasy teams.

As Week 13 approaches, these running backs present potential additions for fantasy football rosters. Be sure to assess your team’s needs and the injury status of key players as you navigate the waiver wire.