Josh McCown (QB, CLE) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Consider as cheap QB option in DFS

OWNED IN: 32% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: Approach this one with caution. Even if he wasn't nursing a shoulder injury, Cleveland Browns starter Josh McCown would be a dicey proposition against an Arizona Cardinals defense that leads the NFL with 12 interceptions. But if you're feeling a bit adventurous, he could prove a valuable asset, particularly in DFS leagues, where he'll save you significant cap money.

McCown left Sunday's 24-6 road loss to the St. Louis Rams late in the fourth quarter after taking a shot to his throwing arm. Johnny Manziel completed four of his five attempts in relief, but the game was already well out of hand. Browns coach Mike Pettine said McCown likely wouldn't practice Wednesday, but would start this week if healthy enough, according to ESPN.

In the four games McCown has started and finished this season, he has thrown for two touchdowns in all of them, and at least 340 yards in three of them. The veteran journeyman has emerged as one of the more pleasant surprises this season. In fantasy terms, he finds himself in an ideal situation - the Browns don't lean on the running game and consistently trail in games. This should be true again on Sunday against the Cardinals, so 300-plus yards and two touchdowns thanks to garbage-time inflation is certainly within reach.