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Pernell McPhee a top IDP add in Week 8

Chicago Bears outside linebacker Pernell McPhee (92) waits for the next play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Oakland Raiders, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

As we get further into the season its gets tougher to scour the waiver wire and find valuable additions to your roster, because the talent worth adding has often been grabbed. With that in mind, I’ll try to focus on some of the more likely-to-be-available players this week.

 

Defensive Line

I recommended picking up Allen Bailey last week, and stand by that despite having posted a mediocre score against Pittsburgh. His boom or bust scoring profile means he might be available in your league, as he has had three excellent weeks and four poor/average weeks. Bailey has been a presence in the backfield this season, generating 4.5 sacks, and six tackles for a loss, while also showing he can post solid tackle production too. He has registered 20 total tackles (13 solo) in last three weeks. Some more consistent scoring would make Bailey a borderline DL2/3 start, but until then, I’d consider him a matchup play only.

After a poor start to the season (four assists and half a sack) in the opening two games, Chris Baker has been a dependable scorer, recording at least nine points in each of his last five games. His value has come in the run game, where he has six tackles for loss, although his two sacks and two forced fumbles are a welcome bonus. Despite the appearance of being a reliable scorer, I’d be concerned by his tackles production, where 14-of-26 total tackles are assists; although it is worth noting he has five quarterback hits (fourth-most among 3-4 DEs), so he does offer some surprising upside. I’d consider Baker a risky DL3/4.

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Ross Miles is a Lead Writer for Pro Football Focus Fantasy. Follow him on Twitter – @RossMilesNFL
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