As Week 8 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy football managers face a challenging scenario with six teams on bye: Arizona, Detroit, Jacksonville, Las Vegas, Seattle, and the Rams. This absence of star players compounds the injury woes that have affected many rosters.
The injury report expanded significantly after Week 7, adding key players such as Jayden Daniels (hamstring), Bryce Young (ankle), Michael Penix Jr. (foot), Darren Waller (pectoral), Cole Kmet (back), and Kendre Miller (knee) to an already distressing list. Further complicating matters are the uncertain statuses of Breece Hall and Kareem Hunt, both dealing with ankle injuries.
With such a talent drain in the lineup, fantasy managers must adapt quickly. The waiver wire is essential for finding replacements to fill the gaps left by the bye week departures and injuries. This week, the focus is on players rostered in less than 65% of CBS Sports leagues.
**Quarterback Recommendations:**
With prominent quarterbacks on bye, such as Jared Goff and Kyler Murray, finding a dependable replacement is vital. Brock Purdy, who may return from injury, should be a target as he has shown promise when healthy. Similarly, Aaron Rodgers is entering a matchup against the Packers that could reignite his season, making him a decent low-end starter.
Players like Jaxson Dart, who had his best outing in Week 7, present a good opportunity as he continues to demonstrate potential alongside the rushing ability that adds value in fantasy matchups.
**Running Back Insights:**
With the running back landscape altered significantly by injuries and byes, finding a suitable substitute is crucial. Aaron Jones is poised to return from injured reserve and could be a game-changer if he shares the backfield with Jordan Mason. Tyler Allgeier and Kenneth Gainwell present solid upside potential if their respective starters miss time or continue to struggle.
**Wide Receiver Targets:**
As several top receivers are sidelined, options like Wan’Dale Robinson and Khalil Shakir may now be reliable contributors worth adding. Darnell Mooney, back from injury, offers potential as a No. 3 fantasy receiver, especially in an appealing matchup against Miami.
**Tight End Opportunities:**
With notable tight ends on bye and a few sidelined due to injuries, players like Dalton Kincaid and Juwan Johnson could provide the spark their owners need in a week of scarce options.
In these crucial weeks, the ability to adapt through the waiver wire could very well determine the fortunes of fantasy teams. Despite the tough circumstances, there remains hope for fantasy football managers who navigate the murky waters of injury management and unpredictable bye weeks effectively.