Full Breakdown
Week 2 Fantasy Football Waiver Wire: Tight End Picks
9/9/2025, 9:27:47 PM
Key Performers from Week 1
As the 2025 NFL season progresses, fantasy football managers are actively seeking tight end depth following the first week of games. Notable performances from Week 1 have highlighted several players who could be valuable additions off the waiver wire.
Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints
Juwan Johnson emerged as a standout tight end in the Saints' 20-13 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, leading the team with eight receptions for 76 yards. He commanded a 23.9% target share, receiving 11 targets from quarterback Spencer Rattler. Johnson's performance was particularly impressive given that he ran routes on 96% of the Saints' passing plays, indicating a significant role in the offense under new head coach Kellen Moore. Despite a dropped touchdown that could have tied the game, Johnson's overall usage suggests he could be a top-12 fantasy tight end if this trend continues. His upcoming matchup against the San Francisco 49ers will be crucial for maintaining momentum.
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots
Hunter Henry also had a solid showing in Week 1, contributing four receptions for 66 yards in the Patriots' 20-13 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. With a roster availability of approximately 48.2%, Henry is a viable option for fantasy managers looking for a reliable tight end. His chemistry with quarterback Drake Maye is expected to improve as the season progresses, making him a potential weekly starter.
Zach Ertz, TE, Washington Commanders
Zach Ertz, now with the Washington Commanders, recorded three receptions for 26 yards and a touchdown in a victory over the New York Giants. With a rostered percentage of 46.9%, Ertz could serve as a valuable red zone target for quarterback Jaylen Daniels moving forward.
Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Cleveland Browns
Rookie Harold Fannin Jr. made an immediate impact in his NFL debut, catching seven passes for 63 yards against the Cincinnati Bengals. With a roster availability of just 2.7%, Fannin outperformed starter David Njoku, suggesting he may become a key target in the Browns' passing game. His versatility could make him a priority add for fantasy teams.
Why It Matters
The performances of these tight ends in Week 1 highlight the importance of identifying emerging players who can fill gaps in fantasy rosters. Juwan Johnson's potential breakout season, coupled with the promising starts from Henry, Ertz, and Fannin, indicates that managers should be proactive in securing these players before they become widely sought after.
Official Statements & Responses
Juwan Johnson expressed his desire to be a reliable target for Rattler, stating, "I just want to be reliable and kind of that safe haven for him." Despite the disappointment of the dropped touchdown, he emphasized the need to move forward and not let one play define his performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just want to be reliable and kind of that safe haven for him to know that look, if any trouble happens, I want to be the guy you can look to be like, 'All right, he's got me there.'” — Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints
- “If this pass-heavy script is the new way of doing business in the Big Easy, Johnson’s volume should be here to stay.” — Fantasy Analyst
- “Do not drop Njoku, but Fannin is a priority add with legitimate TE1 upside if this usage sticks.” — Fantasy Expert
Conclusion
As fantasy football managers prepare for Week 2, the waiver wire presents opportunities to enhance tight end depth. Juwan Johnson, Hunter Henry, Zach Ertz, and Harold Fannin Jr. are all players to consider, each showing potential to contribute significantly to their respective offenses.
