The fantasy football landscape is shifting as teams head into Week 17, prompting players to reassess their rosters for potential waiver wire pickups. The Carolina Panthers have been hit hard by injuries, particularly in their backfield. With Chuba Hubbard placed on injured reserve due to calf and knee issues, Mike Boone is expected to see an increase in playing time. Boone, who has struggled this season with minimal production, is now set to share backfield duties with Raheem Blackshear and Velus Jones Jr. However, fantasy managers are advised to proceed with caution, especially against a tough Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense that has limited running backs significantly in recent games.

Meanwhile, Brandin Cooks of the Dallas Cowboys has struggled to find his form this season, ranking as the WR101 with an average of just 5.9 half-point PPR fantasy points per game. Despite his past success, Cooks has become a less reliable option for fantasy owners. On the other hand, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson has been a high-rostered handcuff but has seen limited action due to James Conner's health. Kimani Vidal of the Los Angeles Chargers has also faced challenges, averaging only 3.5 half-point PPR points per game, while Kendre Miller of the New Orleans Saints has battled injuries, managing to play in just five games this season.