As fantasy football playoffs approach, managers must make critical decisions regarding their rosters. A single poor performance from a quarterback can derail a playoff push. With injuries, bye weeks, and underperforming starters, many are on the lookout for reliable replacements. The goal is to find quarterbacks who not only have short-term potential but also the ability to provide consistent production as the season winds down. Before picking up a new quarterback, consider their supporting cast, upcoming matchups, and the effectiveness of their team”s offensive scheme. While not every waiver-wire quarterback will lead your team to victory, the right choice can offer a solid scoring floor or a breakout performance that propels your squad. Here are three quarterbacks worth considering for Week 13, all of whom are rostered in 50% or fewer of Yahoo fantasy leagues.
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars (49% rostered)
This season, Trevor Lawrence has exhibited frustrating inconsistency, yet his fantasy output has been sufficient to keep him relevant as a streamer. In a recent overtime victory against Arizona, he threw for 256 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions, accumulating 17.1 fantasy points. The 26-year-old has also added a steady rushing component to his game, averaging nearly 24.3 rushing yards over his last four outings, which adds approximately seven fantasy points weekly. Since the Jaguars” Week 8 bye, he has achieved 15 or more fantasy points in all but one game, averaging 17.7 points overall. This production comes despite the absence of key receivers Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter. With a favorable matchup against the Titans, who allow 236.6 passing yards and 1.6 touchdowns per game, Lawrence presents a valuable option for those needing stability at quarterback.
Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland Browns (6% rostered)
The situation at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns has been uncertain, but Shedeur Sanders has shown enough promise to catch the attention of fantasy managers. In his initial NFL start, he completed 11 of 20 attempts for 209 yards, one touchdown, and one interception during the Browns” 24-10 defeat of the Raiders. While his 10.3 fantasy points were modest, the performance demonstrated his poise and precision. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Sanders will start again in Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers” defense, typically formidable, has been weakened by injuries to key players like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, resulting in them giving up an average of 256.1 passing yards and nearly two touchdowns per game. Upcoming matchups against the Titans, Bears, Steelers, and Bengals also suggest Sanders could provide value as a QB2 in superflex leagues.
Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans (7% rostered)
After a shaky start, Cam Ward is beginning to find his footing in the NFL. The former Miami standout showcased his potential with an impressive performance in Week 12, completing 28 of 42 passes for 256 yards, one touchdown, and no interceptions against Seattle, earning a season-high 23.9 fantasy points. His ability to add 37 rushing yards and a touchdown has further enhanced his appeal. Ward has recorded over 30 rushing yards in consecutive games and has not thrown an interception in three outings. In the last five games, he has thrown for at least 250 yards and a touchdown in three of them. In Week 13, he faces the Jaguars, a defense that has allowed 258 passing yards and 2.1 touchdowns per game over the last two months, making him a strong streaming candidate for those in deeper leagues.
Other quarterbacks to keep an eye on include Joe Burrow, Tua Tagovailoa, Tyler Shough, and Kirk Cousins.
