Fantasy football managers often overreact to one-week performances, opening the door for sharp trades. This is the time to spot buy-low, sell-high fantasy football opportunities before values shift. Whether it's a slow start, injury recovery or unsustainable production, managers can use the trade market to get ahead. Stay on top of player roles with RotoWire's weekly projections as you evaluate potential deals.
Buy Candidates
Quarterback
Purdy has missed two games, but there's little doubt he'll reclaim the job once healthy. Mac Jones has been serviceable, but Kyle Shanahan values Purdy's mobility and ability to extend plays. With the 49ers' defense weakened by injuries, San Francisco may lean heavily on Purdy's arm once he returns. He's a strong fantasy football buy-low target before his return sparks a passing surge.
Running Back
Etienne's recent slump is driven more by game script than performance. He's still running efficiently and has seven catches across the last two games. The Jaguars' offense continues to flow through him, even in tough matchups. This dip creates the perfect window to buy before his usage spikes again.
Wide Receiver
Higgins finally showed life with Joe Flacco under center, posting season-highs in catches and yards. The Bengals' defense remains a liability, which should ensure a pass-heavy approach most weeks, and Flacco's quick-trigger style fits Higgins' strengths on intermediate routes. Acquire Higgins now before his box scores start matching his underlying usage.
Olave's weekly consistency has masked his upside potential; he's scored at least 11 PPR points every game but hasn't hit a ceiling yet. Spencer Rattler's gradual improvement should open up more scoring chances, so buy now before the Saints' passing attack finally connects on a few deep or red-zone shots.
Sell Candidates
Quarterback
Love remains a solid real-life quarterback but hasn't delivered consistent fantasy value. Outside of strong showings versus Washington and Dallas, he's failed to reach 20 points in three of five games. Many managers still overrate him based on those spikes, so now's the ideal time to sell to a team desperate for QB stability.
Running Back
Dowdle's explosive two-week stretch came against two of the league's softest defenses, and Carolina's offensive line deserves much of the credit for his huge gains. Once Chuba Hubbard returns from injury, the backfield could revert to a split. Move Dowdle while his value is inflated, but only do so if you receive a star-level return.
Wide Receiver
McMillan's long-term upside is undeniable, but Bryce Young's low passing volume caps his ceiling. Despite scoring twice last week, he totaled only three catches for 29 yards. That box score disguises continued inefficiency in a stagnant offense, so use the hype to trade him before regression sets in.
Tight End
Kraft offers splash plays but limited volume, averaging just four targets per game since the middle of 2024. The Packers' offense still funnels through Josh Jacobs and short-yardage efficiency. Occasional touchdowns will happen, but sustained production is unlikely. Package Kraft in a trade for a more reliable, higher-target tight end.
Conclusion
Savvy managers know when to strike in the trade market, moving off players before decline and acquiring stars on the rise. This week's buy/sell fantasy football window includes names that could define your season down the stretch. Stay ahead of the curve by checking updated NFL depth charts before finalizing trades.
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