Week 3 Fantasy Sleepers: Waiver Additions That Are Worth a Start

After the first two weeks of the season, fantasy teams across the country need plenty of help. Fortunately, the waiver wire has options available that can contribute right away.

A number of lesser-known players had breakout games in Week 2 and should immediately become top priorities to add this week. Of course, not everyone will be able to acquire the best options, especially if other people in the league get to them first.

While these potential stars should still be targeted, here are some sleepers who might be overlooked in most fantasy leagues. Add these players and look like a genius at this time next week.

Alex Smith, QB, Kansas City Chiefs

Matt Schaub might become the top player to add at the position after back-to-back three-touchdown games. However, Alex Smith is quickly becoming a legitimate fantasy starter.

The former 49ers quarterback has two efficient games in a pass-heavy offense, totaling four touchdowns and no interceptions. Perhaps more surprising, he also has 82 rushing yards so far this season.

Smith has a couple of elite weapons around him in Jamaal Charles and Dwayne Bowe, along with a coach who knows how to get these players the ball. 

Next week the Chiefs face the Philadelphia Eagles, who have allowed the second-most passing yards in the NFL. This should lead to big numbers for the Kansas City quarterback.

Jason Snelling, RB, Atlanta Falcons

A few injuries to starters led to big showings from backup running backs in Week 2.

James Starks should be the top waiver-wire add after filling in well for Eddie Lacy on Sunday. Bernard Pierce also had a strong game once Ray Rice got hurt.

Knowshon Moreno did not need an injury to earn his spot, but he separated himself from the pack with a strong game this week.

If you cannot get one of these players, though, look out for Jason Snelling. Steven Jackson left the game early with a thigh injury, which presents an opportunity to his backups if he is out for multiple weeks.

Although Jacquizz Rodgers is next on the depth chart, the 5'6" player is still more of a change-of-pace back than a starter. He should remain in this role while Snelling gets more consistent looks going forward.

Additionally, fantasy owners should look toward Chris Ivory if he is available after looking impressive with the ball against the New England Patriots.

Nate Burleson, WR, Detroit Lions

The two top targets this week at wide receiver will likely be Eddie Royal and DeAndre Hopkins. Royal has been quite impressive to start the year with five touchdowns in two games, although Hopkins presents the better long-term option with his elite skill set and better situation.

Still, either of these players should be added if you get an opportunity, as they are both part of their team's plan going forward.

However, someone else to look toward is veteran Nate Burleson, who only managed four points in standard leagues this week.

Burleson finished with seven catches for 45 yards, but he was targeted as often as Calvin Johnson in the loss. He also plays for a team that throws the ball as often as anyone in the league, so there is plenty of production to go around.

The Lions play the Washington Redskins in Week 3, a team that allowed double-digit fantasy points to three receivers and a tight end on Sunday. Burleson should be able to take advantage of the matchup for a big day.

Charles Clay, TE, Miami Dolphins

This breaks the rule a bit as Charles Clay was one of the top-scoring players at the position this week, totaling five catches for 109 yards. He also got a one-yard rushing touchdown to put his team ahead in the fourth quarter.

However, he is clearly a big part of the offense in Miami and should at least be added in all leagues.

If you still want a deeper sleeper to add this week, you are in luck because the tight end position is as deep as it has ever been.

One option to keep an eye on is Arizona starter Jim Dray. The fourth-year player was targeted seven times last game, which is more than Larry Fitzgerald. He is also a solid threat in the red zone at 6'5" with solid athleticism.

In the next two weeks, the Cardinals face the Saints and Buccaneers, two great matchups for the tight end to breakout with strong performances.

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