Week 5 waiver watchlist centers on emerging backfields and sleeper WRs across the NFL. Kendre Miller looks to siphon early-down work in New Orleans as Kamara’s efficiency dips, while Emari Demercado appears primed to lead Arizona after Conner’s season-ending injury. Sean Tucker could become a deeper-league spark for Tampa Bay if Bucky Irving’s injury lingers. Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Kenneth Gainwell provide mid-season depth and potential flex appeal in Washington and Pittsburgh, respectively. Malik Washington could grow in Miami with Hill sidelined, and Darius Slayton, Romeo Doubs, and Isaiah Bond offer late-season stash upside for NYG, Green Bay, and Cleveland. All are widely available in under 50% of leagues, making Week 5 a prime window to pounce.

Pair these names with a cautious eye on workload splits and injury news. The list favors players with a clear path to touches or targets in the coming weeks, especially in deeper formats where a handful of reliable options can swing matchups. Fantasy managers should weigh Week 5 projections against long-term roles, resting on team context and quarterback stability as Week 5 approaches.