Fantasy Football Buy Low/Sell High: Week 6
As we head into week 6 of the fantasy season, statistics are much more telling after more than a quarter of the NFL season has been played. While NFL teams can always make in-game adjustments according to their matchups, it’s becoming obvious of teams’ gameplans on a weekly basis. We now know the Seahawks have given the keys of the offense to Russell Wilson, “Let Russ Cook.” The Bengals have the utmost confidence in Joe Burrow, as he breaks rookie quarterback records, and are letting him learn on the fly. It is time once again to hit the waiver wire and shop around to find the best fits for your teams. Here are the best candidates to buy low and sell high on in week 6.
Buy Low
David Johnson, Running Back, Houston Texans
David Johnson fantasy owners have been patiently waiting for Johnson’s usage to climb as he is slowly returning to his three-down back form. Johnson turned in a solid performance in a win against the Jaguars with 17 carries for 96 yards, and 2 receptions on 4 targets for 7 yards. The rushing attempts and yards were both season highs, as well as the 5.6 average yard per rush. This was the first game for the Texans following the firing of head coach Bill O’Brien. The Texans led by Deshaun Watson had their best game of the season scoring 30 points, and winning their first game of the season. The offense seems to be simplified and will involve Johnson on the ground and through the air. Johnson is on the field for 79.9% of offensive snaps, there is no reason to fear Duke Johnson taking away his touches. Find the David Johnson fantasy owner and buy low before he consistently plays better and his stock rises.
Mike Williams, Wide Receiver, Los Angeles Chargers
Mike Williams is developing chemistry with rookie Quarterback Justin Herbert, as he caught 5 of 8 targets for 109 yards and 2 touchdowns on Monday Night Football against the New Orleans Saints. Williams is a big body deep threat, a perfect match to pair with Herbert’s strong arm and willingness to stand in the pocket and throw deep. Whether Keenan Allen’s injury to his back is a short-term injury or turns into a serious problem, Williams is worth a Flex/WR2 spot in 12+ team leagues. The price tag on Williams should still be fairly low, find the Mike Williams owners, and start the trade talks now.
Henry Ruggs III, Wide Receiver, Las Vegas Raiders
Henry Ruggs III returned to the field and showed why he was the 12th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. Ruggs led the team with 118 receiving yards and 1 touchdown on 2 receptions. Yes, only 2 receptions. The Ruggs touchdown catch went for 72 yards, as he showed off his big-play ability and 4.27 speed. Quarterback Derek Carr was in desperate need of another receiver to target as the only healthy receivers on the roster have been Hunter Renfrow, Nelson Agholor, and Zay Jones. The Raiders offense runs through Josh Jacobs on the ground, and tight end Darren Waller in the air. Ruggs III will be the second most targeted receiving option for the Raiders as long as he is healthy enough to see the field. Get your hands on the speedster Henry Ruggs III before it’s too late.
Honorable Mentions: Chase Claypool WR, Mecole Hardman WR
Sell High
Todd Gurley, Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
Todd Gurley had his best game of the season against the Panthers, with 14 carries, 121 yards, 1 touchdown on the ground, and 4 receptions on 5 targets for 29 yards. Gurley broke 100 rushing yards for the first time this season, and the first time since December 2nd, 2018. The touches for Gurley seem to be capped at around 20 total. The Falcons have used Gurley wisely and to his potential. While fantasy owners would love more volume, Gurley is still effective averaging 15.9 PPR fantasy points per game. A number that all fantasy owners can appreciate given his relatively low price tag on draft day. Sell high on Gurley, whether it’s a one for one trade or a package deal to upgrade and get your hands on a back or receiver that receives more volume.
Darrell Henderson Jr., Running Back, Los Angeles Rams
Darrell Henderson Jr. found the endzone twice against the Washington Football Team, finishing the day as the RB6 in PPR formats. Henderson had 15 carries for 38 yards and one touchdown, plus he caught 3 of four targets for 30 yards and 1 touchdown. The Rams backfield trio all have the talent to perform when giving the opportunity. Henderson has the most carries, yards, and touchdowns out of the three backs, however, he is still being out-snapped by Malcolm Brown. The Rams offense is very attractive as they are 4th in total yards per game at 403.6. The offense has found its groove and should continue to be consistent. Find a buyer for Darrell Henderson Jr. and rid yourself of the headache that is the Los Angeles Rams running back situation.
Mike Davis, Running Back, Carolina Panthers
Mike Davis has filled the void left by Christain McCaffrey’s high ankle sprain injury. Davis is currently the RB7 this season, despite not seeing the field in the first game of the season. David has scored 3 touchdowns in his 3 starts this season, and catching 22 of 25 targets in the passing game. Whether it is the gameplan that is scheming the volume and production of Davis, or he simply is good enough to be a starting back in the NFL he is on a tear. Unfortunately for Davis, McCaffrey’s return to the team is looming. While his return date is not set in stone, it will be fairly soon as his injury was given a 4-6 week recovery time. This system only uses one back, and Davis’ value will plummet when the news that McCaffrey is set to return and resume as the starting running back for the Panthers. Get the most out of this situation by selling high on Mike Davis.
Honorable Mentions: Jamison Crowder WR, Darius Slayton WR
