Every year, a seemingly random player comes out of nowhere in the fantasy football playoffs to lead managers to glory. This year, his name was Braxton Berrios, the Jets wide receiver that had a monster day. Is Berrios worth a waiver wire add for Week 18?
Braxton Berrios went bananas in Week 17
Back in the summer, you wouldn’t believe me if I told you that Berrios would explode in the fantasy championships, considering he was buried on the depth chart behind Jamison Crowder, Elijah Moore, and Corey Davis. Yet, he had a career-high 12 targets, catching 8 for 65 yards and a TD. Additionally, he recorded 12 rushing yards and a TD on the ground. Pending Monday Night Football, Berrios is the WR5 of Week 17.
Yes, injuries to New York’s depth chart certainly played a role. But fantasy managers in season-long formats don’t care about that. Berrios had the opportunity, and he capitalized, turning in a huge performance.
Elijah Moore and Jamison Crowder injury updates
Davis is out for the season after having core muscle surgery. However, Moore and Crowder could be back in the lineup for the season finale. Head coach Robert Saleh deemed Moore “50/50 to be available” last week, and Crowder could work his way back into the fold from his calf injury.
Their injury designations are important. Berrios has seen double-digit targets only two other times this season aside from Week 17. Outside of those games, he averaged just 2.4 targets per game and has only one other touchdown this season. If Moore and Crowder return, it’s entirely possible that Berrios is relegated back to an ancillary role.
Should you claim Berrios?
This time of year, it’s never a bad idea to add players that have put up big points recently. Yes, it might be “points chasing” to a degree, but if you have an expendable player on your bench or can create an open spot through another method, Berrios is certainly worth consideration.
It doesn’t hurt that Zach Wilson is playing much better as of late. Over his last four games, Wilson has improved in his decision-making and ball security. He hasn’t thrown an interception since Week 13. Berrios may still have a role in this passing attack if Moore and Crowder do return. But in case one of them isn’t able to play this week, Berrios needs to be rostered.