Fantasy Waiver Wire Pickups -
1. WR Donte Moncrief, IND:
Moncrief stepped up in the absence of Reggie Wayne, putting up an impressive line of 7-113-1 on 12 targets. Though Hakeem Nicks received more time on the field, his production (1 catch for 27 yards) was far outweighed by that of Moncrief. Reggie Wayne may be back next week, but the young talented Moncrief may have earned himself some more time on the field with is athleticism and playmaking ability. With red-hot QB Andrew Luck at the helm, all Colts WRs that receive playing time are worth having in most standard fantasy formats. In reference to Donte Moncrief, he could be a solid WR3 going forward, with the potential to surpass Hakeem Nicks on the depth chart.
2. WR Martavis Bryant, PIT:
Steelers rookie wide receiver Martavis Bryant put up another strong performance, going for a line of 5-83-2 (on only 33 offensive snaps) as quarterback Ben Roethlisberger had a career day against the Colts. Bryant has quickly shown that he is a better wideout for the Steelers than Markus Wheaton and will likely take over the starting job in a week or two. During his first two career starts, Bryant caught 7 of 12 targets for 123 yards and 3 touchdowns. His role will undoubtedly continue to expand as he proves to be a real threat in the red zone with his 6'4" frame. As Bryant is likely to take over opposite Antonio Brown, he can be added as a middle-of-the-pack WR3 with major upside, especially in reference to scoring touchdowns, and is one of the best fantasy pickups if available.
3. WR Josh Gordon, CLE:
Gordon will be eligible to play for the Browns once again after his suspension is lifted on Week 12. Though he cannot play for the next few weeks, he is a must-add in all standard fantasy leagues with immediate WR1 potential. Gordon dominated opponents in 2013 as he went off for 87-1646-9 in only 14 games, while breaking 100 yards 7 times. The only current elite target in the Browns receiving corps is TE Jordan Cameron, and Gordon provides them with a significant upgrade in that department. For fantasy teams heading for the playoffs, Gordon can provide a large boost, as he is clearly an elite talent that can play well, regardless of whether it's Manziel or Hoyer throwing to him. Add Josh Gordon before it's too late.
4. WR Brandon LaFell, NE:
LaFell went off on Sunday, going for 11-124-1 as the Patriots destroyed the Bears. Quarterback Tom Brady took advantage of Chicago's defense, lighting them up for 354 yards and 5 touchdowns, and LaFell was one of the biggest benefactors. It's pretty safe to say that his success is almost directly correlated to that of Brady's. Their passing game has been solid in recent weeks, and should continue to thrive. The 27-year-old former Panthers wideout has seen a major increase in playing time, and he was on the field for 61-74 offensive snaps against the Bears. He has become one of Brady's primary receivers and should continue to get a decent amount of targets. LaFell is worth an add and start as a WR3 in standard and PPR fantasy formats.