Next Week’s Waiver Wire: Emari Demercado, Parker Washington, and More Players to Add Before the Week 5 Rush

As another week of NFL action wraps up, fantasy football managers are already eyeing the waiver wire to bolster their rosters before the Week 5 frenzy hits. John Laghezza, our go-to fantasy forecaster at The Athletic, is here to guide you through the emerging talents worth picking up now—before everyone else catches on.

If you're new to this weekly ritual, think of it as a crystal ball for your fantasy team: a mix of data-driven insights, gut feelings, and a dash of optimism to navigate the chaos of injuries, breakout games, and unexpected depth chart shifts. This week, Laghezza zeroes in on players like running back Emari Demercado and wide receiver Parker Washington, who could be game-changers for your squad.

Why Act Early on These Picks?

Demercado, with the Arizona Cardinals, has been turning heads in limited opportunities, showing burst and vision that could earn him a bigger role if injuries linger. Washington, meanwhile, is flashing route-running savvy with the Jacksonville Jaguars, making him a sneaky add for deeper leagues or those in need of wideout depth.

Laghezza doesn't stop there—he breaks down other undervalued gems across positions, emphasizing how overreactions to early-season drama can create buying opportunities. Whether it's a backup RB stepping up or a WR3 poised for targets, the key is prioritizing adds that align with your league's scoring and your team's needs.

Broader Implications for Fantasy Managers

In a season full of parity, the waiver wire remains the great equalizer. Laghezza's advice? Don't sleep on these players amid the Week 4 fallout. With bye weeks looming and matchups tightening, grabbing them now could pay dividends down the stretch.

For the full deep dive into rankings, percentages to bid, and more tailored strategies, head over to the original piece at The Athletic. Stay ahead of the curve, and may your fantasy fortunes rise.