While the most entertaining trade deadline in NFL history passed last week, there is still plenty of fun to be had dealing players in fantasy football.
As fantasy trade deadlines approach this week and next, we take a look at five players who have had inconsistent fantasy performances, but could be valuable assets to acquire for owners trying to make a push for the playoffs.
Drew Brees, Saints
Next four weeks: at Bills, vs. Redskins, at Rams, vs. Panthers
Despite failing to surpass 400 passing yards or three touchdowns in any game this season, Brees isn't having the ridiculously pass-happy campaign people are accustomed to as the Saints have fielded a more-balanced attack.
However, "Breesus" is still in the top five in passing with a solid selection of targets and a good final stretch to the season. After facing the Bills' 26th-ranked pass defense in Buffalo this weekend, the Saints play all of their remaining games indoors or in warm weather environments.
LeSean McCoy, Bills
Next four weeks: vs. Saints, at Chargers, at Chiefs, vs. Patriots
Now is the time to pry McCoy from any frustrated owner who is convinced he's past his prime.
After having his best performance of the year in Week 8, a fatigued McCoy didn't see as many opportunities against the Jets on three days' rest, putting up just 25 yards on 12 carries. The down outing should be excused as a product of the NFL's insistence to play midweek games, but after a 10-day break, McCoy should be ready for the Saints this Sunday.
With more attention from opposing secondaries devoted to Kelvin Benjamin, McCoy's abilities as a runner and receiver will be a tall task for banged-up defenses in Kansas City and New England.
Kareem Hunt, Chiefs
Next four weeks: Bye, at Giants, Bills, at Jets
The star of the first half of the 2017 season has cooled off lately as he has not topped 100 rushing yards since Week 5 or scored a touchdown since Week 3.
With three of the last four games being losses for the Chiefs, Hunt has not had the opportunity to run out the clock in the fourth quarter, where he had success breaking long runs early in the campaign.
If you can survive without him for a week, he should reap the rewards of his bye as the wear and tear of an NFL season can be a lot for a rookie.
Golden Tate, Lions
Next four weeks: vs. Browns, at Bears, vs. Vikings, at Ravens
Tate has been heating up lately, making seven catches for a total of 295 yards in three straight games. Because of that, you may have to pay a pretty penny to get Tate - but the investment should pay off.
The Lions have arguably the best November schedule in the league and Tate has generally been a late-season gamer. He caught at least six passes in the Lions' final five games last season.
With the Lions unable to run the ball at a sustainable pace, Tate should see plenty of targets that will set up the former running back for plenty of yards after the catch to work as an extension of the rushing attack.
Jimmy Graham, Seahawks
Next four weeks: at Cardinals, vs. Falcons, at 49ers, vs. Eagles
The Seahawks may not have the best schedule down the stretch, but that never seems to matter for them. Seattle's late-season success has been sustained throughout Pete Carroll's tenure and it's fair to expect Graham to be as much a part of it as anyone.
In a year that hasn't been too kind to tight ends fantasy-wise, Graham started rather slow this season, but has seen an increase in targets lately, particularly in the red zone. In the final year of his contract, Graham may have some extra motivation to produce as the season moves forward.
(Photos courtesy: Getty Images)
