The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for their final game of the season against the Atlanta Falcons, with significant roster moves announced just before the matchup. Veteran running back Miles Sanders has been activated from the injured reserve, returning to the active roster after suffering a leg injury in Week 10 against the New York Giants. Despite limited playtime earlier in the season, Sanders is expected to start against Atlanta, with Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear as potential backups.

Additionally, the Panthers have signed defensive end DeShawn Williams from the practice squad. Williams, who previously played for Denver, has contributed with 13 tackles and half a sack this season. However, the team has also faced setbacks, as outside linebacker Amare Barno has been placed on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury sustained in the previous game against Tampa Bay. With Josey Jewell also sidelined due to a concussion, the Panthers have elevated linebackers Kenny Dyson and Thomas Incoom from the practice squad to bolster their thin roster.

The Carolina Panthers are set to improve their running game in Week 18 with the anticipated return of running back Miles Sanders, who has been sidelined for the past six games due to an ankle injury. His absence has been felt acutely, especially with Chuba Hubbard also on injured reserve, leaving the Panthers scrambling for viable options in the backfield. Last week, the team struggled significantly without their primary ball carrier, relying on Raheem Blackshear and Mike Boone, neither of whom has proven to be an effective solution for the NFL-level competition.

Despite the team's efforts to fill the void, the lack of a reliable running game has hampered their offensive capabilities. However, with Sanders cleared to practice and potentially ready for action against the Atlanta Falcons, the Panthers hope to regain some offensive balance. Sanders was initially brought in during the offseason by general manager Scott Fitterer but has since fallen down the depth chart, overtaken by Hubbard and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Now, as the Panthers face a crucial matchup, the return of Sanders could be pivotal in revitalizing their ground attack.

Coach Dave Canales expressed optimism about Sanders' readiness, noting that he was cleared late last week but did not have sufficient time to prepare for the previous game. With fresh legs and a pressing need for a strong performance, Sanders' involvement will be closely watched as the Panthers aim to end the season on a high note against their division rivals.

As the fantasy football season approaches its climax, players are scrambling to enhance their rosters through strategic waiver wire pickups. Highlighted this week is Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan, who has surged into the spotlight as a top performer. Over the last month, McMillan has averaged nearly 5 receptions and 60.5 receiving yards per game, positioning him as the WR10 in fantasy rankings. His impressive streak includes six touchdowns in just four games, making him a must-add for any fantasy player looking to bolster their lineup ahead of a critical matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

Other notable players on the waiver wire include Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut, who has struggled to make an impact this season but may see increased opportunities. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is recovering from an ankle injury, with hopes of returning for the season finale against the San Francisco 49ers. Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has shown promise after a rocky start to the season, while teammates Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear are also vying for attention as potential pickups due to injuries affecting their counterparts. As the season winds down, savvy fantasy managers will need to act quickly to secure these valuable assets.

As the NFL season winds down, fantasy football managers are scouring the waiver wire for last-minute additions to bolster their rosters. Week 18 presents a crucial opportunity for those looking to secure valuable players before the playoffs begin. Among the notable pickups is Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who recently joined the New Orleans Saints after a tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. In his debut against the Las Vegas Raiders, he recorded five rushing attempts for 20 yards and two receptions for 10 yards, totaling four fantasy points. With Alvin Kamara likely sidelined due to a groin injury, Edwards-Helaire may step into a more prominent role against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, although he remains a risky flex option given the Buccaneers' strong defensive performance in recent weeks.

Another player to consider is Julius Chestnut of the Tennessee Titans, who has struggled to make an impact this season, averaging just 0.7 fantasy points per game. Despite his low output, he could see increased opportunities as the Titans look to finish strong. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is attempting to return from an ankle injury, which has kept him out of the last two games. His availability will be crucial as the Cardinals face the San Francisco 49ers in their season finale.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has had a rollercoaster season but has shown promise since reclaiming his starting position. He is a potential addition for teams looking for quarterback depth. Additionally, Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear from the Panthers are also on the radar, especially with Chuba Hubbard's recent injury, which has opened the door for increased roles in the backfield. As fantasy managers prepare for the final week of the regular season, these players could provide the necessary boost to secure a playoff spot.

The latest fantasy football waiver wire pickups for Week 18 highlight several key players who could make an impact as teams head into the final stretch of the season. Notably, Julius Chestnut of the Tennessee Titans has seen limited action this year, averaging only 0.7 half-point PPR fantasy points per game. However, with Tony Pollard sidelined due to illness and Tyjae Spears potentially out with a concussion, Chestnut may finally get a chance to start against the Houston Texans. Despite his lack of production, he could be a viable flex option in deeper leagues, although the matchup is challenging as the Texans' defense has been tough on running backs.

Another player to watch is Trey Benson from the Arizona Cardinals, who has missed the last two games due to an ankle injury. If he returns for the season finale, he could provide a boost for fantasy teams. Meanwhile, Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers has had a tumultuous season, but his recent performances since reclaiming the starting role indicate he may be worth adding in 12-team leagues.

Also from the Panthers, Mike Boone has struggled to find playing time, ranking low among running backs this season. However, with Chuba Hubbard now on injured reserve, Raheem Blackshear emerges as a potential waiver wire target, especially for those who had Hubbard on their roster. Lastly, Brandin Cooks of the Dallas Cowboys, once a fantasy staple, has seen his value decline significantly this season, making him a risky pickup despite his experience.