New York Giants running back Matt Breida may be a popular waiver wire add in fantasy football leagues this week after starter Saquon Barkley suffered an injury late in the fourth quarter of the team’s 31-28 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2.
Should you prioritize adding Breida in your fantasy football league in Week 3? Let’s take a closer look.
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Should Matt Breida Be a Fantasy Waiver Wire Add in Week 3?
The Giants may have completed a remarkable 21-point comeback on the road to grab their first win of the season, but it may have come at a grave cost.
Saquon Barkley was slow to get up and had to be helped off of the field after his latest carry. pic.twitter.com/6Td11ApcTH
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) September 17, 2023
Barkley had to be helped off the football field after sustaining what appears to be an ankle injury on the Giants’ final offensive possession, which generated the game-winning field goal from kicker Graham Gano.
The Giants offense has struggled for the majority of the 2023 campaign, scoring a grand total of 0 points through the first six quarters of the season.
However, the G-Men managed to generate 31 points in the second half behind some big plays by Barkley, who scored both a rushing and receiving touchdown in the second half.
You can make an argument that Barkley was the driving force behind the Giants’ comeback win, as he generated 92 total yards on 23 touches to go with his two scores.
Unfortunately, Barkley looked visibly upset on the sideline after having to be helped off the field, which means his status for the team’s showdown against the undefeated San Francisco 49ers on Thursday Night Football is in serious jeopardy.
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When Barkley exited the game, Breida was the back who saw the final carry on the final offensive play for the Giants, which means he could be the biggest beneficiary if Barkley can’t go in Week 3.
Update: The Giants believe Saquon suffered a sprained ankle in Week 2, which almost certainly sidelines him for Thursday Night Football against the San Francisco 49ers.
Breida is a great speculative add on your waiver wires this week, but a tough matchup in Week 3 likely means that you can’t rely on him as a top 24 RB option.