Trashman’s Garbage Grab: Week 9

The bye weeks are stacking, injuries are piling, and your roster is hanging by a thread. But don’t panic — we’re diving back into the dumpster to find this week’s hidden fantasy gems. These low-rostered players might just save your Week 9 matchup.

Running Back

Brashard Smith, Chiefs – 21% rostered
With Isiah Pacheco sidelined by a sprained MCL, Smith has stepped into an expanded role as Kansas City’s change-of-pace back and pass-catching option. He’s shown burst and versatility, and against a Bills defense that’s been soft to receiving backs, Smith is a viable PPR flex with upside.

Samaje Perine, Bengals – 11% rostered
Perine continues to get meaningful work behind Chase Brown, especially on third downs and short-yardage plays. His experience in pass protection keeps him on the field, and he’s fresh off one of his most efficient games of the year. He’s a solid desperation start or depth stash, particularly in deeper leagues.

Wide Receiver

Darius Slayton, Giants – 33% rostered
Slayton remains the Giants’ best vertical weapon when healthy, and he’s coming off a stretch of increased targets as New York tries to stretch the field more. San Fran’s  secondary has been middling against deep passes — if you need a boom-or-bust flex, Slayton fits the mold.

Parker Washington, Jaguars – 10% rostered
Washington is quietly carving out a role with Most of the Jaguars starters banged up. He’s caught multiple passes in consecutive games and has become Trevor Lawrence’s safety valve on short routes. In PPR leagues, he’s a sneaky pickup who could flirt with double-digit points if Jacksonville keeps leaning on him.

Christian Watson, Packers  – 28% rostered
Watson flashed new life in Week 8, reminding us of his field-stretching ability. His chemistry with Jordan Love is improving, and he’s got legit big-play upside. Risky, but the payoff is real if you’re chasing points.

Tight End

Juwan Johnson, Saints – 35% rostered

New Saints QB Tyler Shough needs a safety valve, and Johnson fits the bill. Still afloat in fantasy, even with Taysom HIll and Foster Moreau around, Johnson holds a solid floor in any format. 

Quarterback

Jacoby Brissett, Cardinals – 3% rostered
Brissett quietly put together back-to-back starter worthy fantasy games, before his WK8 bye came around. Now facing a sieve-like Cowboys secondary, Brissett shouldn’t have any problem picking the defense apart enough that you can stream him.