Top Fantasy IR Players to Pick Up: Your 2023 Sleeper Squad
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! It's that time of year again when we're all scouring the waiver wire, looking for the next big thing to bolster our rosters. Today, we're going to dive into the world of Injured Reserve (IR) players and explore some potential sleepers who could make a significant impact in the second half of the season. So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and fantasy ir players to pick up.
Understanding IR and Designated to Return
Before we jump into the players, let's quickly recap the IR rules. A player can be placed on IR if they're expected to miss at least six games. However, there's a twist this year with the new "Designated to Return" rule. Each team can now return one player from IR to their active roster after he has spent at least three weeks there. This opens up a world of opportunities for fantasy managers looking to stash away potential stars.
Why Focus on IR Players?
Picking up IR players might seem counterintuitive, but it can be a game-changer. Here's why:
- Lateral Moves: IR players can provide a temporary solution while your starters are on bye or nursing minor injuries. - Long-Term Investment: Some IR players might be ready to return just in time for the fantasy playoffs, giving you a significant edge over your league mates. - Low Ownership: Many IR players go unclaimed, allowing you to scoop up potential league-winners for free.
Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into the top fantasy IR players to pick up in 2023.
Quarterbacks
Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
Tua was having a breakout season before his injury, throwing for 1,197 yards, 9 TDs, and just 2 INTs. With a full offseason to recover and a talented supporting cast, Tua could return with a vengeance. If he's still available in your league, scoop him up and stash him away.
Davis Mills, Houston Texans
Mills started the season strong before suffering a broken arm. If he returns to form, he could provide valuable streaming options in deeper leagues.
Running Backs
Michael Carter, New York Jets
Carter was off to a hot start before his ankle injury. With Breece Hall now out for the season, Carter could reclaim his role as the lead back in a Jets offense that's showing signs of life.
Damien Harris, New England Patriots
Harris was having a career year before his thigh injury. If he returns to form, he could be a vital part of the Patriots' playoff push and your fantasy championship run.
AJ Dillon, Green Bay Packers
Dillon was having a monster season before his ankle injury. With Aaron Jones nursing a hamstring issue, Dillon could return to a significant workload and provide RB2 value.
Wide Receivers
Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Godwin was having an MVP-caliber season before his knee injury. If he returns to form, he could be the missing piece in your fantasy playoff run.
Michael Pittman Jr., Indianapolis Colts
Pittman was having a breakout season before his ankle injury. With the Colts' receiving corps decimated by injuries, Pittman could return to a massive workload.
DeVonta Smith, Philadelphia Eagles
Smith was having a solid season before his knee injury. With the Eagles' offense clicking on all cylinders, Smith could return to provide WR2 value.
Tight Ends
Dalton Schultz, Dallas Cowboys
Schultz was having a Pro Bowl-caliber season before his knee injury. If he returns to form, he could be a game-changer at the tight end position.
T.J. Hockenson, Minnesota Vikings
Hockenson was having a career year before his foot injury. With the Vikings' offense clicking, Hockenson could return to provide TE1 value.
Final Thoughts
Picking up IR players can be a high-risk, high-reward strategy. However, with the new "Designated to Return" rule, the risk is significantly lower. So, go ahead, take a chance, and stash away those potential league-winners. Your fantasy championship run might just depend on it!
Until next time, fantasy enthusiasts. Keep it real, and keep it fantasy!