It's not always about who you draft at the beginning of the fantasy season. One must also know how to play the waiver wire each week. There is always room for improvement even if you're sitting pretty at 2-0. However, if you aren't fortunate enough to be undefeated, then you probably have a greater sense of urgency to hit on your waiver wire pick-ups. Luckily, there are some Redskins players worth your consideration for Week 3 and beyond. If these players are available, you may want to think about picking them up if you are thin at a certain position.
Kirk Cousins, Quarterback - 17.90 points in Week 2 - Cousins has been living in the shadow of Robert Griffin III for quite some time, but all that could change in the coming weeks. The third year backup got his chance once RG3 dislocated his ankle on a rollout pass play. Cousins proceeded to come in, throw for 250 yards, and toss a couple of touchdowns. He didn't commit any turnovers against the Jaguars, either. The Jaguars aren't exactly an elite team, so it is fair to be skeptical until Cousins shows up against a legitimate defense. This challenge won't come until Week 5 when he will face the Legion of Boom. Before that day comes, Cousins will face some questionable defenses when the Redskins take on the Eagles and Giants in Week 3 and Week 4, respectively. On top of this, the Redskins defense has been performing at a spectacular level, which will give Kirk Cousins more opportunities to orchestrate long drives and maximize his fantasy output. Cousins showed efficiency in Jay Gruden's system against the Jaguars. There is no reason to think this trend won't continue through Week 3 against the Eagles.
Niles Paul, Tight End - 15.90 points in Week 2 - Paul is loving life with Kirk Cousins under center. He put up career numbers against Jacksonville and he looks to be a productive part of the Jay Gruden offense. Starting Tight End Jordan Reed injured his hamstring in Week 1 against the Houston Texans, and now Paul has more of a responsibility to contribute. Paul came into this league in 2011 as a Wide Receiver, but was instantly converted to a 6'1", 230 lbs. Tight End. He is faster than most linebackers, and can outmuscle defensive backs. Keep in mind that Week 2 was a first for Niles Paul. He hasn't had this kind of production any other time in his career. It's also important to remember that Jordan Reed will probably be back in a few weeks tops, so make sure to monitor his health. Reed's availability on the field will impact Paul's fantasy production. Until then, Paul could be a fantasy gem in the coming weeks.
Redskins Defense - 16.00 points in Week 2 - Not many people would've expected it, but the Washington Redskins have the top defense in the NFL heading into Week 3 of the regular season. They've essentially gone from worst to first and fantasy owners couldn't be more happy for this steal of a pick-up. The Safety position is better than it has been in previous seasons. Veteran Ryan Clark provides leadership and experience on the back end, and Brandon Meriweather's suspension has been served. It's still early in the season, but if you're defense hasn't been performing the way you thought it would, give the Redskins a look. If you do pick them up, think carefully before you start them this week. The Redskins defense will be taking on a high powered Eagles offense. If they have success against Philadelphia, they can have success against almost any other team in the League.
Honorable Mentions: Andre Roberts (7.60 points in Week 2), Darrel Young (8.70 points in Week 2)
These players can serve your team well if you give them a chance. We've only seen the beginning of what Jay Gruden can do with his offensive personnel, and defensive coordinator Jim Haslett is using his players to their strengths. This isn't the same Washington team from 2013; the players are demanding respect and you should be willing to give it to them if they keep producing like this. Remember, it's not always how you draft, but how you play the waiver wire. Get active and consider adding these players to your team. It may pay off in the end!
