Plugging the Gaps: IDP Waiver Wire Targets for Week 1

Leonard Williams, New York Jets, Defensive End

In place of Sheldon Richardson, who is suspended for four games for violating the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, Leonard Williams -- the New York Jets’ 2015 first-round selection -- should have a big role in Week 1.

Expect that Williams -- who stands 6-foot-5, 302 pounds, to Richardson’s 6-foot-2, 294 -- to do a fair impersonation of our suspended stud’s numbers. Have you liked how new Jets’ head coach Todd Bowles used Calais Campbell when he was the defensive coordinator of the Arizona Cardinals, when Campbell was on pace for second among DL-eligible players in 2014 in only 12 games? Then you’ll love the left defensive end spot that Williams will occupy on Sundays.

Williams is available in 89.9% of ESPN IDP leagues, and we projected Richardson to produce 3.5 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and 6.03 total points in Week 1 prior to his suspension. Temper those expectations against a strong Cleveland Browns offensive line, but he’s worth a flier if he’s available.