PITTSBURGH, PA – AUGUST 12: Dwayne Washington #36 of the Detroit Lions rushes in the second half against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the game on August 12, 2016 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)

Week 7 of the NFL season has just two bye weeks, but for those who have Ezekiel Elliott or Greg Olsen on their rosters, this week could be a tricky spot.

With the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers on bye weeks, replacements will be needed at both running back and tight end for owners who have two of the best at their respective positions taking the weekend off. This week’s sleepers column includes a top running back and top tight end option with that in mind.

Let’s take a look for another week at five players who are worth your attention on the fantasy waiver wire.

Alex Smith, Kansas City Chiefs

Alex Smith tore apart the Oakland Raiders defense with his usual mix of short-yardage completions last week, a performance he is likely to replicate against another struggling defense in the New Orleans Saints. The Chiefs quarterback’s fantasy value increased with what will be a second straight matchup against a defense unlikely to stop Smith’s aerial attack.

Smith does struggle to compile passing touchdowns in the red zone, so his sleeper status comes with a slight disclaimer: He could frustrate owners if the Chiefs run the ball near the goal line. However, the Saints have one of the worst defenses in the league and should concede plenty of yardage to Smith on Sunday. There are few weeks in which Smith is a bona fide option amongst fantasy quarterbacks. But with New Orleans allowing over 300 passing yards per game, it would be foolish to not consider Smith for a spot start.

Kenny Britt, Los Angeles Rams

Kenny Britt has long been a talented wide receiver who has never seemed to put it all together during his NFL career. The inconsistent Britt can have his moments, but over the course of his career, he just hasn’t been good enough to earn consideration as a true fantasy football option. However, Britt can bring out his best play for big games, like his 136-yard game with two touchdown catches against the Rams last Sunday.

About Chase Ruttig

Chase Ruttig is a Canadian sportswriter who covers North American sports for various outlets.