Fantasy football managers know that every lineup decision can make or break a week, and choosing the right players to start or sit is where championships are won. With the 2025 NFL season underway, matchups, stats, and trends are more important than ever. Each week, we’ll break down the top fantasy football start ’em, sit ’em picks at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, defense, and kicker to help you set the best possible lineup. From favorable matchups and scoring trends to players you should avoid in tough spots, my weekly guide is built to give you an edge.
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Quarterbacks to Start
Jaxson Dart NYG
Jaxson Dart continues to cement his status as one of the most dynamic young quarterbacks in the league. In his last outing, he faced the top-ranked defense in football on the road and still delivered 283 passing yards with four total touchdowns, finishing as the QB2 for the week. Since taking over as the Giants’ starter, he’s averaged 21.9 fantasy points per game while improving in nearly every statistical category. His rushing production has been a major catalyst, with 50 or more yards in three of his last four starts and three rushing touchdowns over that stretch. Dart’s blend of athleticism and confidence has transformed New York’s offense, and his playmaking ability on the move keeps defenses guessing on every snap.
From a fantasy football perspective, Dart should be started in Week 8 lineups despite another tough matchup on paper. He’s been the QB4 in fantasy points per game since Week 4 and already finished as the QB3 in his first matchup against Philadelphia. Dart ranks fifth among 38 qualifying quarterbacks in fantasy points per dropback, showing elite efficiency even while still refining his accuracy and decision-making. Averaging 8.8 rushing attempts per game with elite red-zone involvement, Dart has the skill set to overcome even the toughest defenses in football. He’s earned every bit of the hype, and I am going to start him with confidence this week in fantasy football.
Caleb Williams CHI
The Bears’ offense has evolved around a balanced rushing attack, which at times has overshadowed Caleb Williams’ production through the air. He’s coming off one of his lowest output of the season, finishing with 4.7 points and 0 touchdowns. Despite that, Williams remains an efficient passer when given time, and Chicago’s offensive line has made major strides in protection this season. Baltimore poses a challenge, but they also give up explosive plays through the air, ranking among the league’s worst in fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks. The Ravens’ secondary has been inconsistent, especially against QBs capable of extending plays, and Williams fits that mold perfectly.
Williams remains a solid start in Week 8 as a low-end QB1 with legitimate bounce-back potential. He’s scored over 17 fantasy points in four of six games this season, including two strong road performances. Baltimore has surrendered the second-most fantasy points and passing touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks. Williams ranks as the QB13 in fantasy points per game, but that number undersells his ceiling given his rushing upside and struggles through the air this year. With the Ravens generating pressure at the fifth-lowest rate, Williams should have time to make plays from the pocket and on designed rollouts. Expect him to rebound in Week 8 and re-establish himself as a must-start option in fantasy football.
Bo Nix DEN
Bo Nix’s Week 7 performance told the story of a quarterback capable of turning chaos into production. After three quiet quarters against the Giants, Nix exploded in the fourth, becoming the first player in NFL history to score two rushing and two passing touchdowns in a single quarter. He’s showcased tremendous dual-threat ability all season, recording at least 20 rushing yards in five games, a mark only two other quarterbacks have reached this season. Despite some statistical regression from his rookie campaign, Nix continues to elevate his play when trailing this season, which bodes well for this week’s matchup in what should be a high-scoring affair.
This week, fantasy managers should confidently start Nix in all formats. He enters Week 8 as the QB9 in fantasy points per game and draws an elite matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, who have allowed the most fantasy points, passing yards, and rushing yards to quarterbacks this season. Dallas has surrendered 17 or more fantasy points to every opposing QB, making it a dream matchup. Despite ranking near the bottom in completion percentage over expected (CPOE) and off-target rate, this matchup mitigates those concerns entirely. The Cowboys’ secondary simply can’t contain quarterbacks this season. Expect Nix to deliver another top-five fantasy performance this week.
Quarterbacks to Sit
Jordan Love GB
Jordan Love’s season has been a roller coaster, with flashes of big-play ability overshadowed by long stretches of mediocrity. He’s topped 20 fantasy points just twice all year while failing to reach 16 points in four separate outings. Green Bay’s offensive philosophy hasn’t helped; nearly 57 percent of their red-zone plays over the past month have been runs, limiting Love’s passing touchdown upside. Despite solid underlying metrics (ranking fifth in yards per attempt and seventh in passer rating), his fantasy production hasn’t matched his efficiency. Love remains poised in the pocket but hasn’t been asked to carry the offense, leading to limited opportunity and capped fantasy ceilings.
Even with a favorable matchup against Pittsburgh, Love is a sit in standard fantasy football leagues for Week 8. The Steelers’ defense has been vulnerable through the air, allowing the most passing yards per game, but Love’s low passing volume keeps him in QB2 territory. He’s attempted more than 30 passes just twice all season and is averaging under 28 attempts over his last two games. Without rushing upside or high touchdown equity, his fantasy outlook remains limited. While the matchup may look appealing on paper, Love has struggled to convert opportunity into fantasy value. He’s a serviceable option only in Superflex formats; otherwise, fantasy managers should look elsewhere.
Marcus Mariota WAS
Marcus Mariota returns to the starting role in Washington as Jayden Daniels recovers from a hamstring injury. In his previous two starts, Mariota showed flashes of the dynamic dual-threat skill set that once made him a top fantasy streamer, averaging 18 points in those games. His ability to create with his legs remains a strength, averaging 30 rushing yards per start and scoring a touchdown on the ground. However, his passing metrics paint a less promising picture, as he ranks 27th in highly accurate throw rate and dead last in catchable target rate among qualified passers. With both Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel battling injuries, Mariota’s supporting cast could be limited against one of the NFL’s stingiest defenses.
This week, Mariota is a clear sit in Week 8 outside of deep or Superflex formats. The Chiefs have allowed the third-fewest passing yards and second-fewest touchdowns to opposing quarterbacks this season. Only one quarterback since Week 2 has finished inside the top 15 against Kansas City, and the Chiefs’ disciplined zone coverage forces checkdowns rather than big plays. While Mariota’s rushing ability offers a baseline of safety, the lack of reliable receiving options and a tough road environment caps his upside. Kansas City’s defense ranks inside the top five in both total and fantasy points allowed, making this a brutal matchup. Fantasy managers should resist chasing Mariota’s rushing production and keep him on the bench for Week 8.
Running Backs to Start
Rico Dowdle CAR
The Carolina Panthers have leaned into a true two-running back approach, splitting drives between Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard. In Week 7, Dowdle saw a 46% snap share, turning 18 touches into 96 total yards while Hubbard logged 17 touches for 55 yards. Though Hubbard has run more routes and seen slightly more targets, Dowdle has consistently been the more efficient and explosive option, generating chunk plays and forcing missed tackles at a higher rate. Among 57 qualifying running backs, he ranks inside the top 20 in both explosive run rate and missed tackle rate while ranking fourth in yards after contact per attempt. With Carolina’s offensive identity continuing to shift toward the ground game, this backfield appears to be trending in Dowdle’s favor as his per-touch effectiveness stands out weekly.
That efficiency will be key this week in fantasy football, as the Panthers face a Buffalo defense that has struggled to contain explosive rushers. The Bills have allowed the highest rate of explosive runs and the most yards after contact per carry in 2025, creating a favorable setup for Dowdle to build on his recent production. His combination of power and elusiveness makes him well-suited to exploit this matchup, especially if the Panthers can keep the game competitive. With consistent opportunity and elite per-touch numbers, Dowdle should be viewed as a strong start in Week 8 fantasy football lineups.
JK Dobbins DEN
J.K. Dobbins has remained the focal point of Denver’s backfield even during a recent fantasy dip. Over the past two weeks, Dobbins has averaged 16 touches and 77.8 total yards per game, showing solid rushing efficiency despite limited passing involvement. His Week 7 outing was a microcosm of that trend, 81 rushing yards on 14 carries but minimal receiving work. Still, Dobbins continues to lead the backfield in routes run, and his explosive playmaking ability remains a strength. Among 57 qualified backs, he ranks sixth in explosive run rate and 16th in yards after contact per attempt, demonstrating his ability to generate production even without heavy passing volume.
This week presents an ideal opportunity for Dobbins to reassert himself as a strong RB2, with a matchup against a Cowboys defense that has been generous to running backs. Dallas has allowed the fifth-most rushing yards, fourth-most fantasy points per game, and the highest rate of explosive runs in the league. Dobbins’ usage and efficiency this season bode well against the Cowboys’ defense, which struggles to contain big plays. Expect Denver to feature Dobbins early and often to control tempo, making him a strong RB2 with upside for Week 8.
Chase Brown CIN
Chase Brown has stepped into an improved role since Week 6. His efficiency has also been strong, producing 74.5 total yards per game over that stretch while maintaining solid underlying metrics. Brown ranks 16th in missed tackle rate and 17th in yards after contact per attempt, showing growth in his ability to create yards beyond the blocking. Cincinnati’s offensive line has done its part as well, ranking third in yards before contact per attempt, allowing Brown to run with rhythm and confidence. This is a big change from the 0.08 yards per contact allowed by the offensive line to open the season. Even without elite fantasy box scores, the workload and advanced stats indicate steady opportunity and performance.
This week, Brown will be able to turn his improved efficiency into a nice day in fantasy football against the Jets. While they have allowed the 10th fewest rushing yards overall, they rank 8th in yards after contact per attempt and allow nearly 19 points per game to opposing RBs. While I feel less confident compared to my previous two picks, the improvements from Cincinnati’s offensive scheme have helped open up the running game, making Brown a strong play this week. Brown has RB1 upside and should find the end zone for the first time since Week 1 this week.
Running Backs to Sit
Rhamondre Stevenson NE
Rhamondre Stevenson has seen a welcome increase in workload recently, logging over 70% of New England’s offensive snaps in consecutive games and averaging 20 touches per contest. His performance last week against Tennessee, 18 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown, reminded fantasy managers of his potential when volume and game script cooperate. Among 57 qualified running backs, Stevenson ranks 11th in missed tackle rate, showing he still has the elusiveness to create on his own. The Patriots’ offensive struggles on the ground game are well known still and have also made him more touchdown-dependent than ever, placing extra pressure on volume to sustain fantasy value.
Unfortunately, Week 8 presents one of Stevenson’s most difficult fantasy football matchups. The Browns have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing running backs and just three total touchdowns to the position all season. Their defense ranks top-five in both fewest rushing yards and lowest explosive run rate allowed, making yardage and big plays difficult to come by. Stevenson’s volume might keep him involved, but his chances of finding the end zone are slim in this matchup. Fantasy managers should sit Stevenson this week unless desperate for a flex option, as he’s unlikely to deliver more than low-end production against this elite Cleveland run defense.
Tony Pollard TEN
Tony Pollard has reclaimed his spot atop the Titans’ backfield rotation, seeing 59% of snaps and commanding a strong passing-down role with a 35.9% route share and 17.6% target rate after only playing 48% of snaps in Week 7. While the increased involvement through the air is encouraging, Pollard’s inability to turn touches into consistent fantasy output remains a concern. He has yet to top 15 fantasy points in any game this season and has been held under 10 points three different times. Among qualified backs, Pollard ranks just 32nd in missed tackles forced per attempt, signaling a dip in his signature elusiveness. Tennessee’s inconsistent offensive line play hasn’t helped either, with negative game scripts often forcing Pollard into less efficient check-down situations.
For fantasy football managers, Pollard remains a risky start in Week 8 against a Colts defense that ranks among the league’s best against running backs. Indianapolis has held opponents to the sixth-fewest rushing yards per game and the fourth-fewest fantasy points to RBs. Even though Pollard did manage one of his better outings against this same defense earlier in the season, his split workload with Tyjae Spears and reliance on passing game volume make him hard to trust. Unless you’re in a bind, Pollard should be viewed as a sit or low-end flex in all formats this week. His path to fantasy relevance hinges on heavy target volume, which isn’t a reliable foundation given Tennessee’s current offensive rhythm.
Jaylen Warren PIT
Jaylen Warren’s rise in Pittsburgh’s offense has been one of the brighter storylines this season. After years of watching Najee Harris dominate touches, Warren has finally taken command of the Steelers’ backfield, logging over 65% of snaps in two of his last three games. He’s averaging nearly 19 touches and over 100 total yards during that span, proving his efficiency is translating with volume. Among 57 qualifying backs, he ranks second in missed tackles forced per attempt and seventh in yards after contact per attempt, both elite marks. His compact running style and burst have provided a much-needed spark for the Steelers’ ground game, especially as they lean more heavily on him in key situations.
However, fantasy football managers may want to sit Warren this week, given the brutal matchup he faces against Green Bay. The Packers’ defense has been a nightmare for opposing runners, allowing the second-fewest rushing yards per game and the lowest explosive run rate in the NFL. They’ve also held backs to below-average yards both before and after contact while giving up no receiving touchdowns to the position. Warren’s workload will keep him on the field, but efficiency could be hard to come by against such a disciplined front. Unless volume alone is what you’re chasing, Warren should be considered a risky fantasy start for Week 8, with a capped ceiling and limited touchdown potential in this matchup.
Wide Receivers to Start
Tee Higgins CIN
Over the past two games, Tee Higgins has quietly reestablished himself as a major piece of the Bengals’ passing attack with Joe Flacco under center. His 17.4% target share, 79 receiving yards per game, and 2.00 yards per route run signal renewed live in fantasy football. Perhaps most importantly, Higgins has seen an increase in first-read targets and red zone opportunities, three inside the 20 and two deep looks since Week 6. The Jets have allowed the ninth-highest passer rating to perimeter receivers and the 11th-most PPR points per target, creating an underrated opportunity for Cincinnati’s WR2.
Higgins’ chemistry with Flacco has resulted in back-to-back strong performances, 11 catches for 158 yards and a touchdown on 18 targets against the Packers and Steelers. That production, coupled with Sauce Gardner’s being out in Week 8, sets Higgins up as a strong fantasy football start option against a beat up Jets secondary. Even if Gardner plays, Flacco’s aggressiveness and preference for targeting the boundary should keep Higgins heavily involved. He’s trending upward with clear WR2 value and could easily outperform expectations once again. Fantasy managers should trust the connection and keep Higgins locked in their Week 8 starting lineups.
Wan’Dale Robinson NYG
Wan’Dale Robinson’s role has exploded since Jaxson Dart took over as the Giants’ quarterback. Over the past four games, Robinson owns a 26% target share and has become Dart’s first read on 25% of dropbacks, which has been a significant increase over his career average. Robinson has averaged nearly 90 yards per game and 18 fantasy points per outing during that stretch, highlighted by 20.4 points in a prior matchup with Philadelphia. His surge in production as of late has him sitting at 13.1 points per game, good enough for the 26th-ranked receiver in PPR formats.
Despite the Eagles being a difficult matchup most of the time, they have struggled at times this season and notably struggled against Robinson in Week 2. The Eagles have surrendered at least one receiver scoring 13.9 or more PPR points in every game this season, and Robinson profiles as the best bet to extend that trend. Given his volume, efficiency, and matchup context, Robinson is a strong fantasy start across all league formats and a must-play in PPR settings.
Romeo Doubs GB
Romeo Doubs continues to deliver steady production for Green Bay, ranking as the WR27 in fantasy points per game while logging four top-36 finishes. He leads the team in red zone looks (seven) and commands over 20% of the target share with a healthy 37% air-yard share. He’s recorded at least eight targets in three straight games, averaging 17.8 fantasy PPG over that stretch. In a group with no true alpha receiver, Doubs has been the most impressive and consistent option for the Packers at receiver this season.
This week’s game sets up Doubs as a confident start. Doubs’ ability to win vertically and operate effectively against single-high coverage makes him an ideal fit in this matchup against the Steelers. The Steelers have allowed the second-most fantasy points and most receiving yards to perimeter wideouts, a direct overlap with Doubs’ role this season, with 82% of his routes being out wide. Green Bay’s offense funnels scoring chances through him in the air, and this matchup makes him one of the safer starts at wide receiver for Week 8.
Wide Receivers to Sit
Jaylen Waddle MIA
Jaylen Waddle’s efficiency and volume metrics have taken steps in the right direction after Tyreek Hill’s injury, but the context surrounding him in Week 8 raises concerns. Since Week 5, he’s averaged over 73 yards per game with a 21% target share, yet production has been inconsistent. Miami’s offense has been hit-or-miss lately, with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa struggling under pressure and tossing six interceptions in his last two outings. The Falcons’ defense presents a difficult challenge, allowing the second-fewest yards per game to perimeter receivers.
Fantasy football managers may be tempted to start Waddle out of name value, but this is a week to temper expectations, or even sit him if depth allows. Atlanta’s secondary has locked down elite receivers this season, holding some household names under 10 PPR points. Waddle’s one-catch, 15-yard performance in Week 7 was his lowest of the season, and with Miami’s passing game being volatile, the matchup doesn’t offer much hope for a bounce-back. He’s a risky play against a defense that eliminates explosive plays and limits red zone efficiency. In a week where there are multiple byes and it may be hard to sit him, Waddle’s floor remains dangerously low.
DJ Moore CHI
DJ Moore’s recent struggles have been alarming for fantasy football managers, as his role has shrunk significantly in the Bears’ passing offense. He’s been held under 50 yards in five straight games and has only one touchdown on the year. Despite Baltimore allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts, Moore’s volume simply hasn’t justified starting confidence. His target share sits around 17%, with minimal red zone or deep-shot involvement, with only three deep and two end-zone targets on the season. Chicago’s offensive inconsistencies and Rome Odunze’s growing role further cap Moore’s potential output.
Even with a favorable matchup on paper, he has still failed to reach double-digit fantasy points in five of seven games, and his lone decent outing (12.8 points) required a late touchdown. Without consistent target volume or big-play opportunities, his ceiling has completely evaporated. Unless we see a massive role change, Moore is trending toward droppable territory in most leagues. Fantasy managers should pivot to more reliable options, as Moore profiles as a low-end WR3 at best against Baltimore despite it being a favorable matchup on paper.
Jauan Jennings SF
Jauan Jennings has been one of the league’s most volatile receivers from a fantasy standpoint, with production swinging wildly due to injuries and inconsistent usage. In Week 6, he posted just a 7.7% target share, only to see his 1st read share in Week 7 jump to 47% as the 49ers adjusted their offensive game plan. He also is not seeing targets down the field, as he ranks 65th in average depth of target, while only seeing 2 deep targets the entire season. Add in lingering injuries, including broken ribs and ankle sprains, and it’s clear Jennings is not operating at full strength. His yards-per-target and efficiency numbers are well below last year’s marks, raising red flags about his explosiveness.
Jennings’ Week 8 outlook makes him a firm sit in lineups. Though he managed seven targets last week, the Texans’ secondary poses a difficult matchup, allowing the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game to receivers. He’s been held to single-digit fantasy totals in every game but one, and health limitations make it unlikely that changes soon. Until Jennings demonstrates consistent target volume and improved efficiency, he’s better left on benches or waivers. In a week where reliable options are scarce, the risk far outweighs the potential reward.
Tight Ends to Start
Kyle Pitts ATL
Kyle Pitts continues to tease fantasy football managers with flashes of his elite potential. Despite skepticism earlier this season, Pitts has been quietly producing solid numbers, showing improved involvement in the Falcons’ passing attack. Against the 49ers, Pitts tied for the team lead with 10 targets and hauled in seven passes for 62 yards, a strong showing against one of the league’s toughest defenses. His alignment versatility has been key, leading the Falcons in snaps from the slot, which helps him exploit mismatches against linebackers and safeties. Atlanta’s offensive scheme continues to funnel meaningful opportunities his way, particularly in the intermediate passing game, where Pitts thrives.
For Week 8, Pitts enters an appealing fantasy start against the Miami Dolphins. Miami has surrendered the fifth-most receiving yards and the 11th-most fantasy points per game to tight ends, often struggling to contain athletic players over the middle. Pitts currently ranks as the TE12 in fantasy points per game and is averaging 47.5 receiving yards per game. His usage supports steady TE1 production over the course of the season. Given the matchup and his recent momentum, Pitts deserves to be started confidently in all formats this week.
Cade Otton TB
Cade Otton has emerged as one of the most reliable streaming tight ends in fantasy football over the past month. With both Mike Evans (collarbone) and Chris Godwin (leg) sidelined, Otton projects as the Buccaneers’ second option behind Emeka Egbuka. Since Week 5, he’s posted three straight double-digit PPR point outings. His recent uptick in usage has been fueled by injuries to Tampa Bay’s top receivers, leading to an 18.9% target share and an impressive 65.7 yards per game in that stretch. Otton’s efficiency stands out as well, recording 2.14 yards per route run, receiving more valuable targets down the field.
Against single-high coverage, which New Orleans deploys at one of the league’s highest rates, Otton has been particularly effective, averaging 2.74 yards per route run over the past three weeks, which is enticing this week. The Saints have given up the 10th-most fantasy points to tight ends and have consistently struggled in the red zone against the position. With a history of success against New Orleans, including touchdowns in three of his last four meetings, Otton is positioned for another top-10 finish and should be started with confidence.
Mason Taylor NYJ
Mason Taylor has been an up-and-down fantasy football option this season, showing flashes of promise but battling inconsistency tied to quarterback play. Since Week 4, he’s posted two strong outings and two duds, though the underlying metrics remain encouraging. Taylor has maintained a 19.4% target share with 41.3 receiving yards per game and a solid 20.6% first-read rate, strong numbers for a young tight end in an evolving offense. His red zone involvement has also been steady, recording two targets inside the 20 over his last four contests. Regardless of whether Justin Fields or Tyrod Taylor starts in Week 8, Mason Taylor has proven to be a trusted option when his team moves the chains through play action and quick-hitting schemes.
This week’s matchup makes Taylor one of the more appealing fantasy football start candidates at tight end. Cincinnati’s defense has been shredded by tight ends, allowing the most yards, most touchdowns, and most fantasy points per game to the position. The Bengals have given up nine touchdowns to tight ends this season, including seven over just the last three games. Taylor’s consistent target share since Week 3 positions him for high-volume opportunities in a favorable game script. If you’ve been streaming the position, this is the perfect week to start Mason Taylor with confidence against the NFL’s most generous defense to tight ends.
Tight Ends to Sit
Hunter Henry NE
Hunter Henry’s production has been trending in the wrong direction, making him a risky start in Week 8. Over the last four weeks, he’s seen just 14 total targets and has failed to reach 50 receiving yards in any contest. Despite maintaining a 16.7% target share on the season, Henry’s role in the Patriots’ offense has become unpredictable in tougher matchups. The passing game remains ever-changing with the emergence of Stefon Diggs over the past few weeks and different players stepping up every week. While he continues to see occasional red zone usage, seven targets inside the 20 this year, his recent lack of involvement makes it tough to trust him in fantasy lineups.
The Week 8 matchup against Cleveland is one that fantasy football managers should avoid. The Browns rank among the league’s toughest defenses against tight ends, allowing the ninth-fewest schedule-adjusted fantasy points and 12th-fewest receiving yards to the position. Even though he has been a fringe TE1 this season, the low floor combined with a tough opponent makes him a clear sit candidate. Unless you’re desperate at the position, it’s wise to bench Henry this week and explore better matchups elsewhere.
Zach Ertz WAS
Zach Ertz has been an active contributor to Washington’s passing game, recording nine catches for 80 yards and two touchdowns across his last two contests. However, the quarterback situation significantly affects his fantasy football outlook. With Jayden Daniels sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Marcus Mariota is expected to start, a downgrade that historically limits Ertz’s production. In Mariota’s two starts earlier this year, Ertz managed only five receptions for 59 yards and no touchdowns. While his route participation remains solid and he’s seen five red zone targets on the season, his average depth of target remains shallow, limiting big-play potential.
This week’s matchup with Kansas City makes Ertz a firm sit. The Chiefs have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends, giving up just one touchdown all season to the position. They’ve also held opposing tight ends to minimal yardage, ranking top-five in both yards and receptions allowed. Mariota’s conservative passing tendencies further cap Ertz’s ceiling, especially if Washington’s top receivers return and reclaim target priority. With limited scoring upside and a brutal defensive matchup, Ertz should remain on fantasy benches in Week 8 outside of deep or desperate formats.
Theo Johnson NYG
Theo Johnson’s recent surge has put him on the radar for fantasy football managers, ranking as the TE7 in points per game since Week 4. His usage metrics have been impressive, with a 73.3% route share and a 19.2% target share while averaging 35.8 yards per game. He’s also been heavily involved near the goal line, recording five red zone targets and scoring four touchdowns over his last four games. The chemistry he’s developed with Jaxson Dart has helped him become a reliable chain-mover and safety valve in pressure situations. However, while his recent performances look strong on paper, regression may be looming against stronger defensive opponents.
Week 8 presents a difficult matchup that makes Johnson a sit candidate. The Eagles have allowed the fourth-fewest overall to tight ends, excelling at shutting down interior routes. Johnson managed just 4.7 fantasy points in their first meeting this season and benefited from a fluky deflected touchdown last week. His production has been touchdown-dependent, and this Philadelphia defense is stingy near the goal line. While Johnson remains a player to monitor for future starts, fantasy managers should avoid starting him in Week 8 unless absolutely necessary.
DEF to Start
Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons’ defense should be a strong start in Week 8. Miami’s offense has fallen apart, and Tua Tagovailoa’s struggles continue to drag this unit down. The Dolphins surrendered four sacks, three interceptions, and a defensive touchdown to Cleveland last week, gifting 25 fantasy points to the Browns’ defense, the highest total of the week. Over the course of the season, Miami has committed 12 giveaways and allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to opposing defenses. Atlanta has improved its pass rush and coverage unit, giving it the tools to exploit this vulnerable offense. With Miami reeling and Tua barely holding onto his starting job, the Falcons are one of the top streaming defenses for Week 8.
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts’ defense deserves to be in every lineup this week. The Titans have been a goldmine for opposing defenses, allowing at least 13 fantasy points in four of their last five games and 16 or more in two straight. Tennessee’s offensive line has been a liability, surrendering the second-most sacks in the league and committing 12 turnovers through seven games. Even after firing offensive coordinator Brian Callahan, this offense remains one of the least efficient in football, ranking dead last in both points and total yards per contest. Given the matchup and recent production trends, the Colts are a must-start defense that should deliver another double-digit fantasy outing.
New England Patriots
The New England Patriots’ defense is once again a reliable start in Week 8. Over their last six games, the Patriots have posted 11 or more fantasy points three times, averaging 9.7 points per contest. This week, they face a Cleveland Browns offense that has been run-heavy and turnover-prone this season, which plays well into the Patriots’ strengths. Cleveland ranks near the bottom in passing efficiency and has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing defenses. New England has been stout against the run, giving up the third-fewest yards per carry, which forces opponents into passing situations where this defense thrives. The matchup sets up perfectly for another solid fantasy performance from the Patriots.
DEF to Sit
Denver Broncos
Despite ranking as one of the stronger defensive units in fantasy football, the Denver Broncos are a sit in Week 8 against the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas leads the NFL in total offense with 390.6 yards per game while committing just six turnovers and allowing only eight sacks all season. Dak Prescott is playing at an MVP-caliber level, and his protection has been elite, leaving little opportunity for the Broncos to rack up sacks or takeaways. Even top defenses have struggled to score fantasy points against this offense. Given the lack of turnover upside and the Cowboys’ ability to control game flow, fantasy managers should avoid starting the Broncos this week.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense is an easy sit against the Green Bay Packers. Green Bay has been one of the most careful offenses in the NFL, committing just three total turnovers through seven games and allowing only 10 sacks of Jordan Love. Defenses have averaged the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game when facing the Packers, making this a low-upside matchup for the Steelers. Pittsburgh’s defensive fantasy value depends heavily on forcing mistakes, something Green Bay rarely does. Unless your options are extremely limited, it’s best to leave the Steelers on the bench this week.
Kickers to Start
Harrison Butker KC
Harrison Butker is a top start at kicker this week thanks to his matchup against the Washington Commanders. Kansas City enters as heavy favorites (-10.5) with a 48.5-point over/under, creating ideal conditions for multiple scoring drives. The Chiefs have struggled at times in the red zone, which translates into more field goal attempts for Butker. Meanwhile, Washington’s defense has allowed double-digit fantasy points to four kickers this season, including three with at least 10 points since Week 4. Ranked among the top five kickers for Week 8, Butker offers elite reliability and upside for fantasy managers looking for stability at the position.
Evan McPherson CIN
Evan McPherson is another solid fantasy start after his breakout 17-point performance last week against Pittsburgh. He nailed four field goals and three extra points, including a game-winning 36-yarder, showing his clutch reliability. The Bengals’ offense looks rejuvenated under Joe Flacco, and now McPherson draws a dream matchup versus the New York Jets, a defense allowing the most fantasy points per game to opposing kickers. Five different kickers have scored at least nine fantasy points against New York, and three have topped 14. With consistent accuracy and volume potential, McPherson carries top-10 upside in all fantasy formats for Week 8.
Kickers to Sit
Jake Elliott PHI
Jake Elliott should be on your sit list this week when the Eagles take on the New York Giants. Despite Philadelphia’s chances for revenge, this game projects to be a low-scoring, grind-it-out divisional matchup with a modest 43.5 total. The Giants rank top three in opponent red zone defense, making it difficult for teams to settle for field goals. Meanwhile, the Eagles’ offense has leaned heavily toward touchdowns over kicks when reaching scoring range, minimizing Elliott’s opportunities. Ranked outside the top-15 kickers for Week 8, Elliott carries limited upside and should only be used in emergencies.
Matt Gay WAS
Matt Gay is a clear sit in Week 8 as Washington travels to face the Kansas City Chiefs. The Commanders will be without quarterback Jayden Daniels, which severely hurts their scoring potential. Kansas City’s defense has been dominant against kickers, allowing the fourth-fewest fantasy points to the position and no kicker with multiple field goals in the last three weeks. Gay has also been trending down with four straight games under 10 fantasy points, including just two last week against Dallas. Even with Marcus Mariota under center, this matchup offers little scoring opportunity, making Gay a player to avoid in most fantasy formats.
