By: Kyle Wilson

COVID-19 has hit every major sport hard during this pandemic: NHL, MLB, NBA, and now it’s the NFL’s turn. The Tennessee Titans were the first team to report COVID-19 positive test results on Thursday, Sept. 24. With a flurry of positive results on the team shortly afterwards, it is the New England Patriots turn. Star Quarterback Cam Newton was reported positive Saturday Oct. 3, and quickly three games were rescheduled prompting the positive tests.

This is extremely difficult to keep up with fantasy wise. Come Sunday, healthy players may be ruled out due to a sudden contraction of the disease. With such a weird season, you need to scavenge every point you can get if you are going to be king/queen in your league. This week will provide an in-depth look at those players who can give you that extra boost to push you into the win column. 

Pick Up 

Defense: Miami Dolphins

Not many had high expectations for Miami this season, even after drafting future franchise quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Miami has exceeded expectations this season by being competitive in almost every game so far, and maintaining a promising 4-3 record. With a remaining schedule that includes only a tough few games including the chiefs, there is a good outlook that Miami will continue to exceed expectations, therefore picking up their defense may be a good addition. Only allowing opponents to score 18.6 points per game on average, and only 125 rushing yards per game. Scoring 18 points last week, and looking to put up another promising week; do not sleep on the Dolphins. 

TE: Darren Waller, Las Vegas Raiders

Behind the household names Travis Kelce and George Kittle, it is difficult to find a consistent tight end in fantasy. Darren Waller is currently third in receiving yards for a tight end, and has had a productive season fantasy wise. He currently averages 14 fantasy points per game, and looks to remain healthy and productive for the rest of the season. 

K: Brandon McManus, Denver Broncos

With an injury filled season so far for the Broncos, they have had to capitalize on points any way they can. This includes settling for a lot of field goals in order to try and keep up with the other team. Averaging 10 FPG as a kicker, those extra points could be what you need to push you into the playoffs. Just three weeks ago he was able to put up 24 points, kicking 6 field goals. With a tough remaining schedule, be prepared for McManus to be put into key situations and as often as possible. 

Before playoffs begin it is important you clear some space on your roster just in case you need to pick someone up due to injury. There are certain players who have certainly not lived up to expectations, and can be removed. 

Drop: 

RB: Le’Veon Bell

Le’Veon has disappointed this season after starting on the Jets and now making his way to the Kansas City Chiefs. Things looked up after being picked up, but with Clyde Edwards-Helaire taking the reins; Bell looks to take a more reserved role with the chiefs. Only averaging 6 points in games where he was active, look to move on from this former pro-bowler. 

RB: Ezekiel Elliot, Dallas Cowboys

Now this is not someone I would drop, but work into a trade deal instead. In order to benefit from the trade, you must get a good running back in return. Along with that return, another starter should be included in that package. Elliot looks to be a prime contender for a lot of carries throughout the next few weeks, but saying that he and the cowboys look to be in a downward spiral. They had a rookie QB start last week, and it looked like the coaching staff trusted him more than Elliot. He is at peak trade value, so I would move on this quickly in order to get max return. 

RB: Melvin Gordon, Denver Broncos 

With Philip Lindsay returning from his injury, Gordon will have limited carries during the following weeks. While he is still a viable option in the flex averaging 14 FPG, he will continue to produce less and less each week. If you have a good starting running back with a solid supporting back; I would look to trade or even drop Gordon. 

With a few weeks remaining before the postseason in fantasy, you need to bulk up your roster any way you can. This season is unpredictable and there have been too many injuries to count; depth is the most important thing entering the playoffs in case a high-caliber player goes down.