As Week 8 of fantasy football approaches, managers must strategically prepare for player bye weeks. The upcoming schedule will see six teams unavailable for selection: the Detroit Lions, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, and Jacksonville Jaguars. This period, often referred to as “bye-mageddon,” demands careful planning to mitigate roster issues.
Key Players to Stash Before Week 8
Quarterbacks
Jared Goff and Sam Darnold are the leading quarterbacks affected by the Week 8 bye, both impactful scoring options. While Goff is widely available, consider adding:
- Jaxson Dart – New York Giants (41.7% rostered); scored 23.6 PPR points in his Week 6 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles.
- J.J. McCarthy – Minnesota Vikings (29.5%); injury permitting, he hosts the Los Angeles Chargers.
- Michael Penix Jr. – Atlanta Falcons (15.5%); will face the Miami Dolphins.
- Joe Flacco – Cincinnati Bengals; he will challenge the New York Jets.
Running Backs
The running back position faces challenges with several high-profile players on bye. Consider these potential additions:
- Kimani Vidal – Los Angeles Chargers (58.5%); a crucial fill-in option.
- Woody Marks – Houston Texans (56%); likely to see increased volume this week against the San Francisco 49ers.
- Kenneth Gainwell – Pittsburgh Steelers (59.5%).
- Tyler Allgeier – Atlanta Falcons (34.2%).
- Tyjae Spears – Tennessee Titans (27%).
- Kendre Miller – New Orleans Saints (23.3%).
Wide Receivers
This week, three of the highest-scoring wide receivers will be absent. Managers should actively seek replacements. Notable options include:
- Romeo Doubs – Green Bay Packers (59.4%); potentially a strong play against Pittsburgh.
- Josh Downs – Indianapolis Colts (46.9%); facing the Titans.
- Darnell Mooney – Atlanta Falcons (42.6%).
- Kendrick Bourne – San Francisco 49ers (41.9%).
- Kayshon Boutte – New England Patriots (20%).
- Troy Franklin – Denver Broncos (33.7%).
Tight Ends
Several top tight ends are also on bye. Consider these players as potential pickups:
- Harold Fannin Jr. – Cleveland Browns (46.3%); during his matchup against the Patriots in Week 8.
- Mason Taylor – New York Jets (29.5%).
- Cade Otton – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (17.5%).
- Dalton Schultz – Houston Texans; another deeper league option.
Defense/Special Teams
As fantasy managers evaluate their defensive units, available streaming options for Week 8 include:
- Buffalo Bills (51.4% rostered); matchup against Carolina.
- Los Angeles Chargers (23.6%); facing Minnesota.
- Atlanta Falcons (9.2%); hosting the Miami Dolphins.
Heading into Week 8, proactive decision-making is essential for fantasy football success. Stash these players now to navigate the upcoming bye weeks effectively, and ensure your roster remains competitive.
