Week 3 waiver planning is underway after two Sundays of fantasy football, with managers searching for immediate lineup help and potential season-long contributors.
The available player pool is tightening, but the waiver wire can still produce starters who alter a roster’s outlook in the coming weeks. Players featured in the main pool are rostered in fewer than 60% of ESPN leagues.
Quick facts
- Week 3 waiver claims follow the first two Sundays of the fantasy season.
- Primary waiver candidates must be rostered in under 60% of ESPN leagues.
- Washington Commanders running back Rachaad White is rostered in 65% of leagues.
- San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. is rostered in 68% of leagues.
- De’Zhaun Stribling is expected to miss multiple months.
White falls outside the standard eligibility cutoff, but he remains a priority pickup wherever he is still unclaimed. The Commanders back delivered a standout Sunday performance as both a runner and receiver, giving him added value for managers needing backfield production.
Samuel is another player who should be checked despite his roster percentage sitting above the normal waiver threshold. His opportunity could grow with Stribling sidelined for an extended period.
Managers should weigh needs at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end and defense before submitting claims. Early-season waiver decisions can provide short-term injury cover, but they can also uncover players capable of carrying a roster deeper into the season.
