In the latest fantasy football landscape, several players are emerging as key waiver wire pickups for Week 17, particularly focusing on the Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys. Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has shown significant improvement since returning to the starting lineup, averaging 1.3 passing touchdowns and 18.1 fantasy points per game since the team's Week 11 bye. His recent performance includes a solid outing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he threw two touchdowns and accumulated 16.9 fantasy points. With a favorable matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, who have struggled defensively against quarterbacks, Young is a prime candidate for fantasy players looking to bolster their rosters.

Additionally, the running back situation for the Panthers is evolving, especially with Chuba Hubbard being ruled out due to injury. Raheem Blackshear is now a potential waiver wire addition as he steps into a more prominent role. Meanwhile, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Brandin Cooks, despite having a lackluster season, remains a consideration for fantasy managers due to his historical performance and potential upside. Other notable names include Arizona Cardinals running back Trey Benson and Los Angeles Chargers' Kimani Vidal, both of whom have yet to make a significant impact this season but could be valuable additions in deeper leagues.