NFL

Plugging the Gaps: IDP Waiver Wire for Week 5

Joe Redemann  —  @TheIDPGuy Oct 5th, 2016
Use your ← → (arrow) keys to browse the slideshow

​Akiem Hicks, Defensive End

I could’ve highlighted a few other more highly projected players this week, but I think Chicago Bears defensive end Akiem Hicks has a more interesting story to explore and good reasons why you should trust him in Week 5.

Hicks hasn’t been an incredible impact player all season, but in a great matchup last week against the Lions, he picked up two quarterback hits, one tackle for a loss, and one sack. He also ranks 15th in the league in defensive hurries -- times pressuring the quarterback -- across the season. That’s disruption, and sooner or later disruption becomes production.

Against the Indianapolis Colts, it could be sooner. The Colts are giving up the highest sack percentage in the league to opposing defenses this year, plus they’re throwing the fourth-most frequently of any team in the league, and -- while he hasn’t been stuffed a bunch -- they also like to establish the run with running back Frank Gore. This is a fantasy bonanza for a defensive lineman.

Hicks is available in 97.9% of ESPN IDP leagues, and we project him for 2.45 tackles, 0.24 sacks, and a total score of 3.35 fantasy points in Week 5.

Prev Next