Fantasy football managers are constantly searching for that diamond in the rough on the waiver wire. Week 2 presents fresh opportunities as usage patterns begin to emerge from the opening games. The landscape shifts quickly, and staying ahead of the curve can make or break your season. Let’s examine whether Dylan Sampson deserves a spot on your roster after his surprising Week 1 performance.
Should Dylan Sampson Be a Fantasy Football Waiver Wire Add in Week 2?
Rostered: 46%
Jerome Ford was supposedly going to be the guy the Cleveland Browns leaned on in week 1 while Quinshon Judkins gets up to speed. Instead, we got a PPR scan of Sampson earning a whopping 20 touches.
The rookie from Tennessee operated as the primary back and figures to see increased involvement as the season progresses. His collegiate production (1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns in 2024) demonstrates clear upside potential.
The Browns drafted Sampson in the fourth round with plans to develop him throughout his rookie season. While Judkins signed his contract late and missed valuable practice time, Sampson has been present for all team activities. His versatility in both running and receiving situations makes him an intriguing option. Even with Judkins likely assuming the lead back role, Sampson sure looks like he will be the satellite back. He is definitely worth rostering.
Aggressiveness Rating: 5.0
Waiver Wire Watch: Sampson Delivers Immediate Fantasy Upside
When evaluating waiver wire priorities in Week 2, context is everything, and Sampson has quickly made his case as more than just a temporary fill-in. The Browns may eventually hand the majority of carries to Judkins, but Sampson’s Week 1 involvement suggests the coaching staff already trusts him in high-leverage situations.
Twenty touches for a rookie debuting in a competitive backfield is no small feat, and the fact that he delivered both as a runner and receiver only strengthens his long-term fantasy appeal.
READ MORE: Fantasy Waiver Wire Targets Week 2: Top Players to Add
For fantasy managers, this is the type of profile that pays dividends: a versatile player with proven collegiate production, immediate opportunity, and a role that should remain stable even as Judkins ramps up. Sampson may not project as a weekly RB1, but he has the makings of a valuable flex option with RB2 upside in PPR formats.
His workload may fluctuate, yet his pass-catching ability ensures a solid floor. In competitive leagues, rostering Sampson now could mean securing one of this year’s best waiver wire gems before his breakout becomes common knowledge.
