In fantasy football, kickers often prove to be the most unpredictable position, demonstrating a unique volatility that can frustrate managers. Year after year, statistics reveal that there is a low correlation between where kickers are drafted compared to their final standings at the end of the season. Similarly, the scoring patterns of kickers show minimal reliability, making it challenging to project their weekly performances. This is compounded by the fact that the variance in the scoring between elite kickers and those in the middle ranks is quite small.
Typically, most fantasy general managers (GMs) opt to roster only one kicker at a time, leaving many capable kickers available on the waiver wire each week. Consequently, it is often a more strategic move for GMs to rotate through kickers based on matchups rather than committing resources to the position long-term.
For the latest Week 8 results, we showcase the top five kickers available in over 50% of fantasy leagues, as per NFL.com data.
Michael Badgley scored 8 points for the Colts with 1 field goal and 5 extra points. While currently ranked 11th among fantasy kickers since stepping in for the injured Spencer Shrader, his scoring mix suggests a regression is likely as the Colts demonstrate offensive prowess.
Tyler Loop exceeded expectations by scoring 12 points, contributing to a strong offensive showing by the Baltimore Ravens, even without their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. He managed 3 field goals and 3 extra points, tying for the fourth-best finish of the week.
Matt Prater, at age 41, continues to be a reliable option, scoring 10 points with 2 field goals and 4 extra points, placing him 8th. Parker Romo had a quieter day with only 4 points, as his Miami Dolphins enjoyed a dominant lead, limiting scoring opportunities.
Evan McPherson, making the most of a resurgent Bengals offense with Joe Flacco, also managed 8 points, tying him with Badgley for 11th place.
To date, the Rent-a-Kicker model has suggested 40 kickers, averaging 7.68 points per week. The top three recommendations have consistently outperformed many rostered kickers, encouraging fantasy GMs to consider streaming options.
In previous seasons, many top fantasy kickers began the year unrostered. The current trend shows this could hold true again. Although some readers have inquired about long-term recommendations for kickers, the current model has prioritized weekly performance predictions, yielding better returns than speculative holds.
As we look ahead to Week 9, insights into offensive matchups based on Vegas projections can guide GMs in their next moves. Identifying kickers associated with high-performing offenses could provide an advantage.
With this continual evolution in performance data and weekly surprises within the kicking position, fantasy football enthusiasts remain hopeful that strategic decisions can translate into successful outcomes going forward.