If you are looking for players to add to your fantasy football rosters for Week 6 and beyond, the following were available in both of my 12-team leagues.
1. RB Jackie Battle – Kansas City Chiefs
When running back Jamaal Charles went out for the season with an injury, the Chiefs spent a couple of weeks using Thomas Jones and Dexter McCluster as replacements. Neither were effective, so in Week 5 the Chiefs turned to fantasy unknown Jackie Battle. Battle responded with 21 touches and totaled 119 rushing yards and 21 receiving yards. There should be no reason for the Chiefs to turn away from him at this point. Grab him and monitor how he progresses.
Other running backs who may be available: Jonathan Dwyer, Stevan Ridley
2. QB Tim Tebow – Denver Broncos
Denver quarterback Kyle Orton has struggled this season in the Broncos offense. Everyone from professional analysts to interested fans have been awaiting the chance for Tebow to show what he could do. Entering the game in Week 5 after halftime, Tebow led the Broncos from a 13-point deficit to nearly pull off a comeback victory against the San Diego Chargers. His Hail Mary pass to win the game was not successful, but his 30 minutes of playing time were. He threw for one touchdown and ran for another, showing a spark that the Broncos have lacked this year. He could help you on a playoff run later this season or at least be a quality bye week or injury replacement. (Tebow has a bye this week and the Broncos have not yet named him a starter, so if you are interested, monitor the situation over the next few days.)
Other quarterbacks who may be available: Alex Smith, Curtis Painter
3. WR Doug Baldwin – Seattle Seahawks
Wide receiver Doug Baldwin had been quietly having a good season for four weeks. Then in Week 4 starting quarterback Tavaris Jackson left the game with an injury and back-up quarterback Charlie Whitehurst took over. Whitehurst and Baldwin were also on the same page and connected for a 27-yard score, helping the Seahawks upset the New York Giants. Baldwin finished with eight catches for 136 yards and can no longer be ignored as a fantasy player until he proves otherwise.
Other wide receivers who may be available: Steve Breaston, Darrius Heyward-Bey
Mike Patton has been a fantasy enthusiast since 1997 and has won championships in baseball, football, basketball, hockey, and pick ‘em leagues. He maintains a winning percentage of approximately 80% in a dynasty football league established in 1998.