Hot pickups - Week 16

It's kind of slim pickings this week on the waiver wire in most leagues. But if you're scraping the bottom of the barrel for a spot starter, take a quick look at these guys:

• Oakland Raiders RB Justin Fargas’ storybook season came to an end with an MCL sprain last week, which means LaMont Jordan and/or Dominic Rhodes will take over by default. Maybe one of them will step up against the Jaguars, probably Rhodes, but only go there if you’re desperate. THREE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)

• Jeremy Shockey’s season is over, too, because of a broken leg. The New York Giants will turn to rookies Kevin Boss (who caught a 19-yard TD in Week 15) and Michael Matthews at tight end, but neither guy can really be counted on. I’d be more excited about the opportunity this opens up for WR Sinorice Moss, who’s talented but still figuring out this whole NFL thing. Might be worth a look in very deep leagues or keeper leagues. Boss - TWO STARS; Moss - THREE STARS

• Chargers third-string RB Darren Sproles ran for over 100 yards when LaDainian Tomlinson was rested in the second half last week and backup Michael Turner was hurt. There's a decent chance Sproles (Or Turner, if healthy) could see lots of action if the Chargers rest Tomlinson this week against Denver or in Week 17 against the Raiders, if your season lasts that long. THREE STARS

• Shaun Hill wasn't terrible in his first NFL start for the 49ers (one passing TD, one rushing TD). He might be able to do something against the Bucs, who haven't won in San Francisco since 1980 and have already clinched the NFC South. TWO STARS