NFL Week 2 Waiver Wire: Top Fantasy Football Pickups and Strategies
Discover the top NFL waiver wire pickups for Week 2 of the 2025 fantasy football season, with expert insights from Eric Karabell.

Quarterback Insights
Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons (20% rostered): Despite a loss to the Buccaneers, Penix showcased his potential with 42 pass attempts and a 4-yard rushing TD. Monitor his performance against the Vikings in Week 2.
Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts (4.9% rostered): Jones made a strong debut with the Colts, scoring two rushing TDs and throwing for 272 yards. His dual-threat capability makes him a valuable pickup.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars (39.5% rostered): Lawrence had a quiet Week 1 but faces the Bengals in Week 2, a matchup that could elevate his fantasy value.
Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers (8.7% rostered): Rodgers threw four TDs in a revenge win over the Jets. Despite protection issues, he remains a solid fantasy option.
Running Back Watch
Dylan Sampson, Cleveland Browns (32.8% rostered): Sampson’s 17.3 PPR points came mainly from receptions. With Jerome Ford’s future uncertain, Sampson could emerge as the lead back.
Isaac Guerendo, San Francisco 49ers (7.7% rostered): Despite Christian McCaffrey’s dominance, Guerendo’s potential as a backup makes him a stash candidate.
Wide Receiver Highlights
Quentin Johnston, Los Angeles Chargers (3.6% rostered): Johnston’s 24.9 PPR points in Week 1 highlight his upside. He’s a deep-league option with WR3 potential.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kansas City Chiefs (1% rostered): With key receivers out, Smith-Schuster could see increased targets in Week 2 against the Eagles.
Tight End and Defense
Harold Fannin Jr., Cleveland Browns (0.8% rostered): Fannin’s seven receptions for 63 yards make him a viable streaming option.
Green Bay Packers Defense (37.5% rostered): The Packers’ defense held the Lions to two field goals and is a strong add for Week 2.
Deep-League Options
Joe Flacco, Cleveland Browns (2.5% rostered): Flacco’s 45 pass attempts show he’s a viable streamer in deeper leagues.
Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins (31.7% rostered): Despite a rough Week 1, Tagovailoa has historically performed well against the Patriots.
Conclusion
Week 2 of the NFL season offers numerous waiver wire opportunities. From emerging quarterbacks to potential breakout running backs, fantasy managers should act swiftly to secure these valuable assets.