Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Week 9: Best Pickups After Injuries & Breakouts (November 2025)

Week 9 of the 2025 NFL season (November 2-3) delivered several injury-driven opportunities and breakout performances that reshape the fantasy landscape heading into the second half. Here are the must-add players on your waiver wire before your league mates catch on.

RB Tier 1: Must-Add Running Backs

Tyrone Tracy Jr. (New York Giants) - #1 Priority

Tracy becomes the full-time lead back after Cam Skattebo suffered a season-ending dislocated ankle injury in Week 8 against the Eagles. Skattebo underwent successful surgery and is out for the season. Tracy handled all of the team's RB workload after the injury and is primed for heavy volume. This is a classic waiver wire breakout opportunity.

• Why Add: Lead-back roles with clear opportunity are lottery tickets. Tracy is getting the full backfield.
• Ownership: Low (likely available on waivers)
• Outlook: High-volume opportunity in the second half

QB Tier 1: Streaming Matchups

Lamar Jackson made a triumphant return from a hamstring injury in Week 9, throwing 4 touchdown passes and leading the Ravens to a 28-6 blowout over the Dolphins. Jackson had been out for 3+ games and was worth the wait. The Ravens are now 3-5 with momentum heading forward.

• Jackson's Stats: 18-23 passing, 204 yards, 4 TDs, 15 rushing yards
• Why Add: Elite QB returning at the right time with momentum. Stream consideration going forward.
• Ownership: Moderate (may be available depending on league depth)

MVP Race Impact on Team Names

The MVP race continues to be dominated by Patrick Mahomes at +140 odds, though Josh Allen showed why he's the defending MVP with his 28-21 upset win over the Chiefs in Week 9. Josh Allen's performance was stellar: 273 passing yards, 1 passing TD, 1 rushing TD in the victory.

Key Waiver Wire Strategy

• 1. Go hard on Tyrone Tracy Jr. - Lead back roles are scarce. Use 25-30% of your budget.
• 2. Monitor Lamar Jackson - If available, he's a league-winner at QB with a favorable schedule ahead.
• 3. Track the MVP race - Player performances tied to MVP narratives have upside and storyline value.
• 4. Plan for the second half - Week 10+ is where fantasy championships are won.

This Week's Standout Performances

Christian McCaffrey dominated in the 49ers' Week 9 win over the Giants, recording 173 total scrimmage yards and 2 touchdowns. McCaffrey is on pace for an elite season and continues to be the RB1 in fantasy.

Jonathan Taylor continues his MVP-pace season for the 7-1 Indianapolis Colts, maintaining his status as the fantasy RB1 and a genuine MVP contender alongside Patrick Mahomes.

Closing Thoughts

Week 9 created opportunity. Tyrone Tracy Jr. is your #1 waiver wire target. The second half of the fantasy season is where championships are decided—make your moves now before everyone catches on. Your Week 10 matchup will thank you for being proactive on the waiver wire.