Alexander Mattison Week 4 Waiver Wire: Should fantasy managers add Raiders RB?
Those who drafted Alexander Mattison last season with expectations of a Dalvin Cook-like breakout met sobering reality. However, spending a waiver wire pick on the running back is a massively different investment than a first or second-round pick last season. Keeping the price tag in mind, should you add Mattison this week? Here's a look at why you should or should not avoid him.
Should you add Raiders RB Alexander Mattison in Week 4 Waiver Wire?
At this point, Zamir White has both hands on the starting running back role, per ESPN's depth chart. However, Mattison does provide some level of value with a touchdown-or-bust recent history. Mattison has earned just eight yards in the last two games, but also two touchdowns.
If you are looking only for a flex who can provide six points and are willing to wait most of the game to see your back in action, Mattison is worth an addition. It also serves as a lottery ticket in case White suffers an injury in one of the most dangerous positions in sports.
Alexander Mattison fantasy outlook for 2024 NFL season
In Week 1, Mattison displayed his potential floor for the year, earning just 19 yards and zero touchdowns. However, he provided a baseline of six points in each of his other two games. At this point, expect either negligible points or a ceiling of 12 points, assuming the Las Vegas Raiders find a way to first and goal often in many future games.
Of course, this assumes the Raiders can keep consistent on offense. With coach Antonio Pierce already potentially teasing a quarterback change, the offense could look much different for better or worse in future weeks. This adds an additional factor to think about.
Is Alexander Mattison a good waiver wire pickup in fantasy football?
If Mattison is picked up with the expectation to sit him on the bench or perhaps help out at the flex position in a double-flex league, it makes sense. However, managers expecting him to suddenly become the starting running back to rack up 20 points per week will be in for a rude awakening.
That said, there is a place for him in fantasy football leagues if used correctly and sparingly. Put simply, wait for him to prove consistency before granting him a starting spot on most rosters.