Fantasy Football: Players to consider dropping to make room for Week 15 waiver wire pickups

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A players-to-drop column will never be one-size-fits-all, so season these recommendations to taste.

Russell Wilson, QB, Steelers (56%)

It’s been a nifty comeback for Wilson, with a 6-1 record and mostly positive metrics as a passer. But the Steelers are never going to be a high-volume passing team as currently constructed, and he no longer offers anything as a runner. The Eagles (with George Pickens reportedly looking unlikely to go) and Chiefs await, and even the Ravens draw might not help — Wilson face-planted vs. them last month.

Kyle Pitts, TE, Falcons (83%)

Remember, our game is about numbers, not names. Pitts has a paltry seven catches for 89 yards over his last five games, with zero touchdowns. Kirk Cousins has eight picks and zero touchdown passes over his last four games. And even if Cousins gets it going again, Pitts will usually be behind three teammates with respect to opportunity. I realize tight end is generally a hairy position, but you still shouldn’t have to visit this wishing well.

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, WR, Titans (41%)

We had a lot of fun with NWI during his improbable touchdown streak, but all along he was a depth player who was best used as a rotational piece during bye-week season. The byes are finally over and now we’re in the fantasy playoffs; your wide receiver room probably has several better options. Use his roster spot on one of those December specialty plays, like running back insurance or an extra D/ST. Receiver depth no longer means much.

Alexander Mattison, RB, Raiders (40%)

The Raiders probably already know he’s not a part of their 2025 plans — he’s averaging an anemic 3.3 yards per rush, and is on a one-year deal. It’s time to evaluate future pieces, with Sincere McCormick starting to emerge in the backfield.

Cole Kmet, TE, Bears (51%)

It’s painful to include Kmet because he was good to us during strong 2022 and 2023 fantasy seasons. But he hasn’t scored a touchdown since Week 6, he didn’t even draw a target in the San Francisco loss and the Chicago passing game has three obvious options ahead of him in the pecking order.