The 2025 fantasy football season is entering its final week, with many leagues gearing up for championship matchups. As the NFL wraps up its regular season, fantasy managers must adapt to potential player absences due to teams resting key athletes. Week 18 brings unique challenges, especially for those vying for league titles in longer formats. Here’s a rundown of waiver wire targets to consider for this crucial week.
Key Fantasy Football Waiver Targets
Amidst the chaos of NFL Week 18, several players provide enticing options to replace sidelined stars:
Malik Willis, Green Bay Packers (2% Rostered)
Willis has showcased immense potential when leading the Packers' offense, notably scoring 31.5 points in his last start. With uncertainty around the status of starter Jordan Love, Willis could be a top option if he recovers from injury.
Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints (21% Rostered)
Shough has stepped up significantly as the Saints’ starting quarterback. After back-to-back 300-yard games, his performance could propel Fantasy managers looking for a reliable QB option.
Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans (8% Rostered)
Ward's position as the Titans' top pick has shown promise, producing steady numbers in recent matchups. He could clinch a productive outing against the Jaguars in Week 18.
Malik Davis, Dallas Cowboys (2% Rostered)
With Javonte Williams likely sidelined for the Cowboys, Davis's strong performance in Week 17 sets him up as a promising RB option against a vulnerable Giants defense.
Audric Estime, New Orleans Saints (11% Rostered)
Estime returned to form with a solid Week 17 showing. His potential for more touches against the Falcons makes him an appealing RB2 option.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Washington Commanders (52% Rostered)
Croskey-Merritt is heating up with multiple touchdowns in recent games. If he maintains his scoring momentum against the Eagles, he could be a strong play for Fantasy owners.
Parker Washington, Jacksonville Jaguars (37% Rostered)
Washington is emerging as a key player in Jacksonville’s passing game and should find success against a weak Titans secondary.
Luther Burden III, Chicago Bears (23% Rostered)
Burden's recent breakout performance makes him a solid option for managers looking to add depth to their receiving corps.
Colston Loveland, Chicago Bears (49% Rostered)
As the Bears' top tight end, Loveland is expected to produce against the Lions in a must-win scenario.
Greg Dulcich, Miami Dolphins (0% Rostered)
Dulcich's resurgence in Week 17 makes him an intriguing TE option, especially with quarterback Quinn Ewers looking to him for support.
Jacksonville Jaguars D/ST (51% Rostered)
The Jaguars' defense continues to perform well, making them a viable choice against the Titans in a potential blowout game.
Cincinnati Bengals D/ST (5% Rostered)
After showing improvement over the second half of the season, the Bengals are a reasonable choice against the struggling Browns offense.
Conclusion
With playoff implications and injuries looming, Week 18 is critical for fantasy managers. Utilizing available waiver wire options can significantly affect championship outcomes. Stay tuned to injury reports and make strategic decisions as the final week unfolds.
