Fantasy Football Waiver Wire 2014: Top 10 Week 4 pickups

Lorenzo Taliaferro-RB-Baltimore Ravens (0.9%)

Taliaferro looked like the answer to the Ravens running back issues on Sunday running for 91 yards and a touchdown on his 18 carries against the Browns.  Those numbers look even better when compared to Bernard Pierce’s 96 yards the week before on 22 carries. Pierce sat out the Ravens week 3 contest which opened the door for Taliaferro to emerge as one of our Week 4 pickups.

In the short-term Taliaferro may lose some carries if Pierce returns from his minor injury and takes back over the majority of carries, but there’s little question that Taliaferro offers more sizzle and upside in his rookie year out of Coastal Carolina.  Taliaferro has a ways to go in the passing game, but the Ravens have an answer to that with the presence of Justin Forsett who will also be part of the backfield picture for the Ravens.

If Pierce is active and resumes his starting role, Taliaferro may be a difficult pickup-and-play option this week, but he’s definitely worth a waiver claim if you’re looking for more long-term upside.  At some point this season whether due to injuries, ineffectiveness, or recurring fumble issues, I think Taliaferro will get a shot at the primary running back job in Baltimore.