Waiver Wire Plus: One Fantasy Football Move for Every NFL Team Entering Week 9 ...Middle East

The waiver wire looks different for every league. So, we‘re breaking down how to handle every relevant fantasy player in the NFL as we head into Week 9

The average fantasy football manager has gotten more sophisticated over the years. And several of them have moved past simply wanting to be told who to pick up each week.

If you are one of those people, this is for you. We still have our most important weekly recommendations (conveniently located at the top of this article), but we’re giving you more.

Want to know the key injuries to worry about for each team this week? We’ve got that. What about the depth chart with the players who could benefit from a key injury? We’ve got that too, with the injured players in red.

There is also a key fantasy move to make for each team so you can see which players’ stocks are on the move. No matter how deep you want to dig to manage your fantasy roster, we’ve got you covered. We have the recommendations you want in addition to the information you need to make informed decisions. And we’ll continue to add recommendations throughout the week as major news breaks.

Week 9 Waiver Wire Moves

Add Troy Franklin: Franklin was second to Courtland Sutton on the team with 23 routes run in Week 6 and continues to draw Bo Nix’s attention. He improved on that again in Week 8 after the bye, running a team-high 24 routes. His 26.9 PPR fantasy points were the most among all wide receivers in Week 8. He’s only rostered in 44% of leagues on ESPN, so there’s a good chance he is available in your league. He’s a priority add on any platform if he’s there. Add Jaylin Noel: C.J. Stroud looked revitalized this week despite missing Nico Collins and Christian Kirk. Noel was a big reason why. He looked sharp as a slot receiver who had the burst to run a lot of different routes. The rookie finished the game with five catches for 63 yards. It’s unclear when Christian Kirk will be back, but Noel has proven he deserves a look even when Kirk is healthy. Stash him for now and he’s worth a stream in PPR formats if Kirk misses another game. Add Tyrone Tracy Jr.: Cam Skattebo is done for the season with a dislocated ankle. Tracy Jr. stepped into his role with 10 carries (12 touches) during the Giants’ loss to the Eagles in Week 8. Tracy Jr. has 45 carries and 55 touches on the season to Devin Singletary’s 28 carries and 31 touches overall. The sophomore running back has proven he can handle a bigger load finishing last season with 192 carries and 839 rushing yards with six total touchdowns. He should be the top running back on waivers this week in most leagues. Buy Rico Dowdle: Everyone seems to realize the Panthers have a clear No. 1 back … except Dave Canales. That’s not entirely fair, as Chuba Hubbard was coming back from injury and is clearly an organizational favorite after signing an extension last year. But in the two games since he’s been back, Hubbard has 26 carries for 65 yards (2.5 yards per carry), compared to Dowdle’s 25 carries for 133 yards (5.3 YPC). Eventually, the production of Dowdle will get him the 1A job, so he could be a back to target.

Jump to an AFC Team

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Jump to an NFC Team

Philadelphia Eagles/New York Giants/Washington Commanders/Dallas Cowboys/Green Bay Packers/Chicago Bears/Detroit Lions/Minnesota Vikings/Tampa Bay Buccaneers/Atlanta Falcons/Carolina Panthers/New Orleans Saints/San Francisco 49ers/Seattle Seahawks/Los Angeles Rams/Arizona Cardinals

The waiver wire looks different for every league. So, we‘re breaking down how to handle every relevant fantasy player in the NFL.

Buffalo Bills

Move to Make: Buy Khalil Shakir

Shakir has cemented himself as a go-to guy for Josh Allen with at least five targets in his last four games. Allen threw for only 163 yards against the Panthers and 88 of those went to Shakir, who added a touchdown as well. He’s the only Bills receiver who has a reasonable floor at the moment and is worth a start on a lot of teams.

Injury Report

Joshua Palmer: Considered week-to-week with an ankle injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Josh Allen, Mitch Trubisky Running Back: James Cook, Ray Davis, Ty Johnson Wide Receiver: Keon Coleman, Khalil Shakir, Joshua Palmer, Curtis Samuel, Elijah Moore Tight End: Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, Jackson Hawes

Long-Term Trend: Ride James Cook

Cook has never carried the ball as much in his career. And after some worries about touchdown regression, he continues to be one of the NFL’s best players at getting into the end zone.

Miami Dolphins

Move to Make: Add Malik Washington

The opportunities we thought Washington would get after the Darren Waller injury didn’t transpire in Week 8, but the Dolphins offense as a whole was much more efficient in a 34-10 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Washington finished with four catches for 36 yards but did salvage his day with his first touchdown of the year. Tua Tagovailoa looked dismal in a Week 7 loss to the Cleveland Browns with just a 68.2% well-thrown rate and three pickable passes but was excellent against the Falcons with 92.3% WT rate and just one pickable pass.

Washington has run more routes than any Dolphins pass catcher except for Jaylen Waddle since Tyreek Hill went down in Week 3 and will continue to get a decent target share. If Tagovailoa can be efficient, that’s enough to be fantasy relevant.

Injury Report

Tyreek Hill: Placed on IR due to a knee injury and will miss the rest of the season. Jason Sanders: Did not come off IR for Week 8 as he recovers from a hip injury; practice status needs to be monitored. Darren Waller: Injured his pectoral muscle in Week 7 and is now week-to-week.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Tua Tagovailoa, Zach Wilson Running Back: De’Von Achane, Ollie Gordon II, Jaylen Wright Wide Receiver: Jaylen Waddle, Malik Washington, Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Dee Eskridge Tight End: Darren Waller, Julian Hill, Tanner Conner

Long-Term Trend: Darren Waller in the Red Zone

Waller had four touchdowns in his first three games of the season and has emerged as the go-to weapon for Tua Tagovailoa in the red zone. When he’s healthy, he should put up TD-dependent numbers.

New England Patriots

Move to Make: Add Kayshon Boutte

Stefon Diggs is Drake Maye’s top receiver but Kayshon Boutte ran more routes than Diggs in Week 8 and had the same amount of targets (five). It was Mack Hollins who finished with the most targets on the Patriots (seven), but we’re still recommending Boutte based on that relative consistency and chemistry he has built up with his quarterback.

Maye’s 87.6% well-thrown rate is third in the league among players with 100 pass attempts. He has thrown just two pickable passes in 218 attempts. The Patriots offense is good, and Boutte has become an important part of it.

Injury Report

Antonio Gibson: Torn ACL (out for season).

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Drake Maye, Joshua Dobbs Running Back: Rhamondre Stevenson, TreVeyon Henderson, Terrell Jennings Wide Receiver: Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams Tight End: Hunter Henry, Austin Hooper

Long-Term Trend: Stash TreVeyon Henderson

The running back room is thin right now and if anything were to happen to Rhamondre Stevenson, Henderson would become an immediate starter.

New York Jets

Move to Make: Start Mason Taylor

The Cincinnati Bengals were allowing 257.1 passing yards per game this season heading into the Week 8 game against the Jets. They allowed 248 against the Jets and made Justin Fields look like prime Joe Namath in the process.

We pushed for Mason Taylor then and we’re pushing for him again this week. He finished the game with five catches for 34 yards and a touchdown. He ran more routes than any other Jets player (33). They have a bye in Week 9 and then come back to face the Browns. Even with Garrett Wilson possibly back, it’s still worth keeping Taylor with Fields checking down on 16.7% of his attempts in Week 8. Only Spencer Rattler and Kirk Cousins checked down more in Week 8 among quarterbacks with more than five passing attempts.

Taylor was targeted on 26.7% of the routes he ran, which was sixth among all tight ends with at least 10 routes run in Week 8.

Injury Report

Braelon Allen: Placed on IR Oct. 3 after injuring his knee and was ruled out for 8-12 weeks. Garrett Wilson: Injured his knee in Week 6 but could return following the Week 9 bye.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor Running Back: Breece Hall, Braelon Allen, Isaiah Davis, Kene Nwangwu Wide Receiver: Garrett Wilson, Josh Reynolds, Allen Lazard, Tyler Johnson Tight End: Mason Taylor, Jeremy Ruckert, Stone Smartt

Long-Term Trend: Pass on WRs Not Named Wilson

Justin Fields has never been good at supporting multiple wide receivers’ fantasy football production and this year is no exception. Garrett Wilson is the only Jets receiver worth playing daily, but if his knee injury lingers, Josh Reynolds could benefit.

Baltimore Ravens

Move to Make: Buy Derrick Henry

It might be hard to pry Derrick Henry away from the manager who has him after back-to-back strong performances, but it’s worth a try. Finally, the schedule has eased up for the Ravens and Lamar Jackson could return as early as this week. It’s easy to see Henry returning to the form that made him one of the best running backs in fantasy football last season.

Injury Report

Lamar Jackson: Jackson missed another game in Week 8 but seems likely to return in Week 9.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Lamar Jackson, Cooper Rush, Tyler Huntley Running Back: Derrick Henry, Justice Hill, Keaton Mitchell Wide Receiver: Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, DeAndre Hopkins, Devontez Walker, Tylan Wallace Tight End: Mark Andrews, Isaiah Likely, Charlie Kolar

Long-Term Trend: Don’t Worry About Henry

Derrick Henry’s season has been a disaster so far, but he got on track in Week 6 and things get easier after the Week 7 bye. The Ravens play the Bengals twice, the Bears, the Dolphins and the Jets down the stretch. There are still reasons to be concerned, but some boom weeks are probably on the horizon.

Cincinnati Bengals

Move to Make: Buy Tee Higgins

Higgins had just one catch in Week 8 but made it count with a 44-yard touchdown.

Perhaps the manager who has Higgins is concerned about Joe Flacco’s minor injury. If so, he’s worth trying to grab. With competent quarterback play and a disastrous defense that requires the Bengals to put up a lot of points, the environment is there for Higgins to take off.

Injury Report

Joe Burrow: Out several more weeks due to Grade 3 turf toe. Mike Gesicki: Placed on IR due to a pectoral injury on Oct. 15. Joe Flacco: Day-to-day due to a shoulder injury. Monitor his practice status this week.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Joe Burrow, Joe Flacco, Jake Browning Running Back: Chase Brown, Samaje Perine, Tahj Brooks Wide Receiver: Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Andrei Iosivas, Mitchell Tinsley, Charlie Jones Tight End: Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, Noah Fant, Tanner Hudson

Long-Term Trend: Watch Flacco’s Impact

The Bengals needed better quarterback play than they got from Jake Browning, and we’ll see if Joe Flacco can continue to provide a significant upgrade. He flashed enough in his first game with the team that the Bengals’ skill players may yet be salvageable.

Cleveland Browns

Move to Make: Buy Dylan Sampson

Sampson is probably only an add in deeper PPR leagues, as there’s a chance Quinshon Judkins is back after the Browns bye week.

But Sampson gets involved in the receiving game when Judkins is unavailable. He caught all eight of his targets in Week 1 when Judkins didn’t play and caught five of six passes last week with Judkins leaving the game with an injury. If you’ll need an emergency running back in Week 10, Sampson is at least worth a stash for one week to see if Judkins misses any time.

Injury Report

Quinshon Judkins: Left game in Week 8 due to a shoulder injury and is day-to-day. Cedric Tillman: Placed on IR on Sept. 30.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders Running Back: Quinshon Judkins, Dylan Sampson, Jerome Ford Wide Receiver: Jerry Jeudy, Cedric Tillman, Isaiah Bond, Jamari Thrash Tight End: David Njoku, Harold Fannin Jr.

Long-Term Trend: Don’t Expect Much

The Browns offense has been stuck in the mud, and it’s hard to see a full turnaround on the horizon. The offensive line is hurt and underperforming, the receiving corps is missing a true No. 1 and Cedric Tillman is injured, and their rookie quarterbacks are talented enough to completely lift the team on their own. Quinshon Judkins is talented enough to start every week, but the floor for every player on this offense is alarmingly low.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Move to Make: Add Aaron Rodgers

The Colts have been a great team, and it might seem like the type of defense you should avoid if you’re considering streaming a quarterback in Week 9.

But they’ve actually given up the third-most gross passing yards per game this season. A lot of this is game-script related, as the Colts have held big leagues and forced opponents to pass. It’s possible, though, that happens again with how porous the Steelers defense has been.

If Aaron Rodgers gets volume, he throws touchdowns. In his five games with at least 30 pass attempts this season, he’s thrown a combined 13 touchdowns. He’s a solid stream this week.

Injury Report: None of Note

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers, Mason Rudolph Running Back: Jaylen Warren, Kenneth Gainwell, Kaleb Johnson Wide Receiver: DK Metcalf, Calvin Austin III, Roman Wilson, Scotty Miller, Ben Skowronek Tight End: Jonnu Smith, Pat Freiermuth, Connor Heyward, Darnell Washington

Long-Term Trend: Pass on WRs Not Named Metcalf

The Steelers clearly want to utilize at least two tight ends and are rotating four different guys effectively. This means receiver points are hard to come by, and no one other than DK Metcalf has broken through. Calvin Austin (when healthy) will occasionally catch some deep balls, but there isn’t another receiver other than Metcalf that should be played every week.

Denver Broncos

Move to Make: Add Troy Franklin

Franklin was second to Courtland Sutton on the team with 23 routes run in Week 6, and continues to draw Bo Nix’s attention. He improved on that again in Week 8 after the bye, running a team-high 24 routes.

The second-year receiver was also targeted on 33.3% of the routes he ran. He finished Week 8 with more targets than any other Bronco too, which translated into six catches for 89 yards and two touchdowns. His 26.9 PPR fantasy points were the most among all wide receivers in Week 8. He’s only rostered in 44% of leagues on ESPN so there’s a good chance he is available in your league. He’s a priority add on any platform if he’s there.

Injury Report

Marvin Mims Jr.: In concussion protocol following Week 8.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham Running Back: J.K. Dobbins, RJ Harvey, Jaleel McLaughlin, Tyler Badie Wide Receiver: Courtland Sutton, Troy Franklin, Marvin Mims Jr., Pat Bryant, Trent Sherfield Sr. Tight End: Evan Engram, Adam Trautman, Nate Adkins

Long-Term Trend: Fewer TDs for Nix

After they had the sixth-highest pass-to-rush touchdown ratio in 2024, the Broncos have been a more balanced team in the red zone. Bo Nix can still provide fantasy value, but don’t count on him to throw for 29 touchdowns again in 2025.

Kansas City Chiefs

Move to Make: Buy Travis Kelce

The Chiefs revitalized offense has given Kelce some room to maneuver in the middle of the field, and he’s taken advantage. He has at least 50 receiving yards in his last four games and has two scores in that time frame as well. He seems to be retaking his place as a high-floor option at tight end.

Injury Report: None of Note

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Patrick Mahomes, Gardner Minshew Running Back: Isiah Pacheco, Kareem Hunt, Brashard Smith Wide Receiver: Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Tyquan Thornton Tight End: Travis Kelce, Noah Gray, Robert Tonyan

Long-Term Trend: Ride Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes, the real-life quarterback, never left, but Patrick Mahomes the fantasy quarterback is back. He already has a four-touchdown game to his name in 2025 and the floor has been much higher for him. Pencil in Mahomes as an elite fantasy option once again.

Los Angeles Chargers

Move to Make: Add Oronde Gadsden II

Oronde Gadsden II has 29.4 and 18.7 PPR fantasy points in the last two weeks and he’s still out there on the waiver wire in some leagues. He also ran more routes than any other Charger player during their Week 8 Thursday night win over the Vikings.

The rookie also had 77 burns yards in Week 8. Only Tucker Kraft had more among tight ends with an eye-popping 128.

Injury Report

Omarion Hampton: Placed on IR with an ankle injury on Oct. 12, but should return sometime this season. Najee Harris: Out for the season after an Achilles injury, Hassan Haskins: Missed Week 8 with a hamstring injury and his status is up in the air for Week 9.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Justin Herbert, Trey Lance Running Back: Omarion Hampton, Kimani Vidal, Hassan Haskins Wide Receiver: Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Keenan Allen, Tre Harris Tight End: Oronde Gadsden, Will Dissly, Tyler Conklin

Long-Term Trend: Stick With the Three WRs

The Chargers have three receivers who are rosterable in fantasy. Through six weeks, Quentin Johnston, Keenan Allen and Ladd McConkey all have over 300 receiving yards and no other WR has cracked 80 yards. It might be hit or miss with these players, but they all have a chance to go off in any game.

Las Vegas Raiders

Move to Make: Drop/Bench Every Pass Catcher

The Raiders offense has completely stalled in the absence of Brock Bowers and Jakobi Meyers. They only managed to run 30 offensive players while the Chiefs had 30 first downs.

Even with the game script pushing the Raiders to air it out, the Raiders simply couldn’t get anything going on offense. Meyers and Bowers are worth a roster spot if they return, but there isn’t anyone else in the passing game that you can feel good about starting any week. Stashing Tre Tucker is also an option with the trade rumors surrounding Meyers, but that’s about it.

Injury Report

Brock Bowers: Missed Week 7 with a knee injury but is expected back after the Week 8 bye. Jakobi Meyers: Missed Week 7 with knee and toe injuries but is expected back after the Week 8 bye.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Geno Smith, Kenny Pickett Running Back: Ashton Jeanty, Raheem Mostert, Dylan Laube Wide Receiver: Tre Tucker, Jakobi Meyers, Dont’e Thornton, Jack Bech Tight End: Brock Bowers, Michael Mayer, Ian Thomas

Long-Term Trend: Ride Ashton Jeanty

It might not be pretty, but the volume Jeanty is receiving is undeniable. The rookie ranks fifth in the NFL with 17.5 attempts per game. He also had the ninth-most carries through Week 6 for any player in the past three seasons. There will be some frustrating weeks due to the Raiders’ inability to block well for him, but Jeanty still has a high fantasy ceiling because they rely on him so much.

Houston Texans

Move to Make: Add Jaylin Noel

C.J. Stroud looked revitalized this week despite missing Nico Collins and Christian Kirk.Noel was a big reason why. He looked sharp as a slot receiver who had the burst to run a lot of different routes. The rookie finished the game with five catches for 63 yards.

It’s unclear when Christian Kirk will be back, but Noel has proven he deserves a look even when Kirk is healthy. Stash him for now and he’s worth a stream in PPR formats if Kirk misses another game.

Injury Report

Tank Dell: Out for the season with a knee injury. Christian Kirk: Missed Week 8 with a hamstring injury and could miss more time moving forward. Nico Collins: Missed Week 8 with a concussion and his practice status needs to be monitored for Week 9.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: C.J. Stroud, Davis Mills, Graham Mertz Running Back: Woody Marks, Nick Chubb, Dare Ogunbowale, Dameon Pierce Wide Receiver: Nico Collins, Jayden Higgins, Jaylin Noel, Christian Kirk, Xavier Hutchinson, Tight End: Dalton Schultz, Harrison Bryant, Brenden Bates

Long-Term Trend: A Stroud Rebound

Is C.J. Stroud finding his groove? He averaged 9.04 yards per attempt against the Ravens in Week 5, which surpassed his YPA in any game in 2024. He’s had three games this year in which he averaged over 8.0 yards per attempt; last year, he had two the entire season. There will still be fits and starts with this offense, but Stroud seems to be going in the right direction.

Indianapolis Colts

Move to Make: Add Josh Downs

Downs caught six passes for 42 yards and a touchdown in Week 6 and was just four targets shy of Michael Pittman Jr. for the lead among Colts wide receivers after the week.

Unfortunately, a concussion prevented him from playing in Week 7, but he came back in Week 8 and caught three passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. In a PPR league, he should be rostered and can be used as a bye-week fill-in.

Injury Report

Spencer Shrader: Placed on IR with a knee injury before Week 6. Anthony Richardson: Placed on IR on Oct. 13 due to orbital injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson, Riley Leonard Running Back: Jonathan Taylor, DJ Giddens, Tyler Goodson, Ameer Abdullah Wide Receiver: Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, Adonai Mitchell, Ashton Dulin Tight End: Tyler Warren, Mo Alie-Cox, Drew Olgetree

Long-Term Trend: Ride the Skill Players

The Colts have faced a mixture of good and bad defenses so far in 2025, but they’ve produced every week. If Adonai Mitchell didn’t drop the ball on his way to the end zone in Week 4, Indianapolis would have at least 27 points in every game this season. Jonathan Taylor remains in the conversation for fantasy football’s RB1, Tyler Warren is a must-start and Daniel Jones has viability even in a one-quarterback league right now.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Move to Make: Add Bhayshul Tuten

It seemed like the Jaguars were ready to feature a split backfield this year, then Travis Etienne Jr. looked incredible early on and took over as the lead back. But with Tank Bigsby gone, Tuten is clearly locked in as the backup. Etienne has failed to surpass 50 rushing yards two weeks in a row and it’s possible Tuten eats into the Etienne carries moving forward. He should at least be rostered in the majority of leagues.

Injury Report

Brenton Strange: Will be out at least a month as he recovers from a quad injury. Brian Thomas Jr.: Left Week 7 with a shoulder injury and will need to be monitored leading into Week 9. Tim Patrick: Left Week 7 due to a groin injury and will need to be monitored leading into Week 9.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Trevor Lawrence, Nick Mullens Running Back: Travis Etienne Jr., Bhayshul Tuten, LeQuint Allen Wide Receiver: Brian Thomas Jr., Travis Hunter, Parker Washington, Dyami Brown, Tim Patrick Tight End: Brenton Strange, Hunter Long, Johnny Mundt

Long-Term Trend: Ride Brian Thomas Jr.

Slowly but surely, Brian Thomas Jr. is climbing back to being a top-tier wide receiver. He had by far his best game of the season with 90 receiving yards and a touchdown versus Seattle. He hasn’t gotten over his case of the drops, though, as he had another one at a crucial time. Travis Hunter will become more relevant as the year goes on, but Thomas Jr. is still the No. 1 option.

Tennessee Titans

Move to Make: Add Tyjae Spears

Spears has looked like the better running back compared to Tony Pollard since coming back from injury and appears on the cusp of becoming the 1A back in Tennessee.

The third-year running back got nine carries for 59 yards against the Colts, compared to 11 carries for 44 yards for Pollard. He also got three targets to Pollard’s two, catching them all for 23 yards.

Pollard still might get most of the goal line work, but Spears is the better receiver, and the Titans are going to be trailing a lot of games. He’s not worth starting every week, but Spears belongs on rosters.

Injury Report

Calvin Ridley: Missed Week 8 due to a hamstring injury. His status for next week is in doubt once again.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Cam Ward, Brandon Allen Running Back: Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, Julius Chestnut Wide Receiver: Calvin Ridley, Elic Ayomanor, Tyler Lockett, Van Jefferson, Chimere Dike Tight End: Chig Okonkwo, Gunner Helm

Long-Term Trend: Don’t Expect Much

Some offenses feature several fantasy-worthy players and offenses that don’t. The Titans are the latter. They’ve been shut out as many times as they’ve scored more than 20 points this season (once each). Now they have a time share in the backfield and don’t have a receiver that’s emerged as a go-to guy yet (although Elic Ayomanor has shown potential). Don’t count on any Titans as every-week starters.

Dallas Cowboys

Move to Make: Stash Jaydon Blue

Javonte Williams’ workload has been significant but we saw Blue eat into his touch share again in Week 8. Williams had 14 touches comparted to Blue’s eight touches.

Blue finished with 3.6 yards per carry, which was better than Williams (3.2) and looks to be gathering more momentum. He’s worth a stash for managers with an open spot.

Injury Report

Miles Sanders: Placed on IR before Week 6 with knee and ankle injuries

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Dak Prescott, Joe Milton III Running Back: Javonte Williams, Jaydon Blue Wide Receiver: CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, Ryan Flournoy, Jalen Tolbert, KaVontae Turpin Tight End: Jake Ferguson, Luke Schoonmaker, Brevyn Spann-Ford

Long-Term Trend: Ride the Skill Players

With CeeDee Lamb fully healthy, it’s hard to imagine a better fantasy situation than the one in Dallas. The Cowboys have two incredibly talented receivers, an excellent fantasy tight end, a rejuvenated running back, and a quarterback playing some of his best football. Even the team’s horrible defense should force the offense to score as much as possible. The Cowboys bring the 2024 Bengals to mind and we all know how productive that team was in fantasy.

New York Giants

Move to Make: Add Tyrone Tracy Jr.

Cam Skattebo is done for the season with a dislocated ankle. Tracy Jr. stepped into his role with 10 carries (12 touches) during the Giants’ loss to the Eagles in Week 8. Tracy Jr. has 45 carries and 55 touches on the season to Devin Singletary’s 28 carries and 31 touches overall.

The sophomore running back has proven he can handle a bigger load finishing last season with 192 carries and 839 rushing yards with six total touchdowns. He should be the top running back on waivers this week in most leagues.

Injury Report

Malik Nabers: Out for the season with a torn ACL. Cam Skattebo: Out for the season with a dislocated ankle.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Jaxson Dart, Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston Running Back: Tyrone Tracy Jr., Devin Singletary Wide Receiver: Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, Jalen Hyatt, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, Beaux Collins Tight End: Theo Johnson, Daniel Bellinger, Chris Manhertz

Long-Term Trend: Don’t Expect Much

Jaxson Dart is a definite upgrade at quarterback, but he hasn’t shown the ability to throw for a ton of yards yet. Of course, a lot of quarterbacks would struggle to throw for a lot of yards with New York’s banged-up receiving corps. But while Dart is certainly viable in the right matchup, he might not be able to lift the receivers to fantasy relevance.

Philadelphia Eagles

Move to Make: Stash Tank Bigsby

Saquon Barkley has underwhelmed so far this year after a heavy workload in 2024 (career-high 345 carries) but he came up big against his former team on Sunday finishing with 150 yards on the ground and a touchdown along with four catches for 24 yards and a touchdown.

Bigsby also finished with over 100 yards on the ground on nine carries and out-carried Will Shipley 9-3 while playing more than double the snaps. Bigsby is the clear handcuff to Barkley.

Injury Report

Saquon Barkley: Suffered a groin injury against the Giants but seems likely to play in Week 9.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Jalen Hurts, Tanner McKee, Sam Howell Running Back: Saquon Barkley, AJ Dillon, Will Shipley, Tank Bigsby Wide Receiver: A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jahan Dotson, John Metchie III Tight End: Dallas Goedert, Grant Calcaterra, Cameron Latu

Long-Term Trend: Stick With A.J. Brown

The Eagles have underperformed so far, and their receivers are worth an examination. A.J. Brown had less than 30 receiving yards in three of his first four games and has insisted the offense needs to air it out more often. Either he’ll get more touches, or he’ll get even more unhappy as the season progresses.

Washington Commanders

Move to Make: Buy Deebo Samuel

It was another frustrating game for Samuel, as he had just three catches for 11 yards and one rush for 1 yard in Week 8.

But Samuel showed a high ceiling earlier in the season and should have Jayden Daniels back soon. It would be foolish to overreact to a frustrating game with Marcus Mariota at quarterback against a strong Chiefs defense. Samuel’s value is probably at its nadir, so now is the time to buy.

Injury Report

Jayden Daniels: Did not play in Week 8 due to a hamstring injury. His practice status should be monitored for Week 9. Noah Brown: Placed on IR on Oct. 15 due to a groin injury

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Jayden Daniels, Marcus Mariota Running Back: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Chris Rodriguez Jr., Jeremy McNichols Wide Receiver: Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, Noah Brown, Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane Chris Moore Tight End: Zach Ertz, John Bates, Ben Sinnott

Long-Term Trend: Stream Zach Ertz

Ertz continues to be an excellent streaming tight end because of his propensity for finding the end zone. After seven touchdowns last season, he had three in his first six games in 2025.

Chicago Bears

Move to Make: Drop Colston Loveland

There was some hope that without Cole Kmet, Loveland would take off. But Loveland had just 38 yards on three catches in a loss to the Ravens in Week 8. At this point, it’s hard to distinguish the rookie tight end’s production from the morass of streamable tight ends that sit on the waiver wire. Don’t hesitate to cut Loveland if you need the roster spot.

Injury Report

Cole Kmet: Left Week 7 with a back injury and is questionable for Week 8 Roschon Johnson: Missed Week 8 with a back injury and is questionable for Week 9. Luther Burden III: In concussion protocol following Week 8 and will need to have his practice status monitored. Olamide Zaccheaus: Day-to-day with a knee injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Caleb Williams, Tyson Bagent, Case Keenum Running Back: D’Andre Swift, Kyle Monangai, Roschon Johnson, Travis Homer Wide Receiver: Rome Odunze, DJ Moore, Luther Burden III, Olamide Zaccheaus, Devin Duvernay Tight End: Colston Loveland, Cole Kmet, Durham Smythe

Long-Term Trend: Stream Caleb Williams

Williams has quietly entered fantasy starter territory. He’s throwing for more yards and touchdowns and getting sacked about half the time compared to his rookie season. It doesn’t hurt that he had a rushing touchdown in the season opener, the first of his career.

Detroit Lions

Move to Make: Buy Jameson Williams

Whoever has rostered Williams is probably sick of him at this point. He had one catch for nine yards in Week 5, so was on most fantasy managers’ benches for Week 6 when he had six catchers for 66 yards and a touchdown. That convinced several managers to play him in Week 7, when he had no catches and two measly targets.

Williams is the same boom-or-bust player he has always been, and he’ll have more boom weeks in the future. He’s not an every week starter, but if he’s available for almost nothing, he’s worth grabbing.

Injury Report: None of Note

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Jared Goff, Kyle Allen Running Back: Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Jacob Saylors, Craig Reynolds Wide Receiver: Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Isaac TeSlaa, Kalif Raymond, Dominic Lovett Tight End: Sam LaPorta, Brock Wright, Ross Dwelley

Long-Term Trend: Tough Matchups Ahead

The Lions do have some games against poor defenses left, but their fantasy playoff matchups aren’t the best. They face the Rams, Steelers and Vikings from Weeks 15-17.

Green Bay Packers

Move to Make: Add Jordan Love

With Tucker Kraft’s emergence and Christian Watson’s return, it’s becoming harder and harder to know which Packers receivers will get enough targets on a given day to warrant a play in fantasy.

So, just take the guy who benefits from all of the receivers being healthy and productive. Jordan Love had his best game of the season in Week 8 and could be on the verge of a breakout with all his weapons healthy. Because of his slow start, he’s available on the waiver wire in several leagues. If you need a QB upgrade, Love could be the guy.

Injury Report

Dontayvion Wicks: Missed Week 8 with a calf injury and may miss additional time.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Jordan Love, Malik Willis Running Back: Josh Jacobs, Emanuel Wilson, Chris Brooks Wide Receiver: Romeo Doubs, Matthew Golden, Dontayvion Wicks, Christian Watson, Savion Williams Tight End: Tucker Kraft, Luke Musgrave, John FitzPatrick

Long-Term Trend: Wide Receiver Roulette

It’s worth picking up Matthew Golden because of the rookie’s second-half potential, but the most likely scenario when Christian Watson returns is that Green Bay once again has a room of receivers whose production fluctuates wildly week-to-week. Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs are both worth rostering, but neither is likely to be someone you can count on.

Minnesota Vikings

Move to Make: Hold Aaron Jones

It was a disaster of a return for Aaron Jones, who rushed five times for 15 yards and caught two of his four targets for 15 yards. But it was a worst-case scenario for the entire Vikings offense in Week 8.

Jordan Mason ran for three yards on four carries and Carson Wentz threw for just 144 yards. It’s possible Jones will continue to be a non-factor, and he should only be started by desperate fantasy managers in Week 9. But you didn’t hold on to him through his injury to cut him after one bad game. Give Jones another week or two before cutting ties.

Injury Report

J.J. McCarthy: McCarthy returned to practice prior to Week 7 but was still unable to suit up in Week 7 or Week 8; could be back in Week 9, especially with the Vikings needing him after Carson Wentz’s injury. Carson Wentz: Out for season with a shoulder injury. Ty Chandler: Currently on IR with a knee injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: J.J. McCarthy, Carson Wentz, Max Brosmer Running Back: Jordan Mason, Aaron Jones, Zavier Scott Wide Receiver: Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jalen Nailor, Adam Thielen Tight End: T.J. Hockenson, Josh Oliver

Long-Term Trend: Watch the Backfield Situation

Aaron Jones is expected to return after suffering a hamstring injury in Week 2. He wasn’t lighting it up in the opening two weeks on the ground with 13 attempts for 46 yards. He did have three catches for 44 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 against the Bears, which will likely be where his fantasy value comes from. Jordan Mason might now be dispensable but hold fire on that one until we see how Jones looks and what his role is upon return, which also means a backseat and irrelevance for Zavier Scott too.

Atlanta Falcons

Move to Make: Buy Drake London

London had a pedestrian game with four catches for 42 yards in Week 7 before missing Week 8 due to injury. His momentum has tumbled after he had two monster weeks in Weeks 5 and 6, and that might make some managers worry he’s coming back down to Earth.

But London still had 10 targets in Week 7, and the Falcons should have learned their lesson about what happens when they don’t manufacture easy touches for their top wide receiver (and how the offense looks without him). London is an excellent receiver with huge upside the rest of the year.

Injury Report

Michael Penix Jr.: Missed Week 8 with a bone bruise in his leg; practice status needs to be monitored. Drake London: Missed Week 8 with a hip injury; practice status needs to be monitored.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Michael Penix Jr., Kirk Cousins Running Back: Bijan Robinson, Tyler Allgeier, Nathan Carter Wide Receiver: Drake London, Darnell Mooney, Ray-Ray McCloud, Casey Washington, Khaderal Hodge Tight End: Kyle Pitts, Charlie Woerner

Long-Term Trend: Stash Darnell Mooney

Bijan Robinson is the star in the backfield and Drake London has started to break out after a slow start. If Darnell Mooney stays healthy in his return and is productive, this could be a group on the upswing.

Carolina Panthers

Move to Make: Buy Rico Dowdle

Everyone seems to realize the Panthers have a clear No. 1 back … except Dave Canales.

That’s not entirely fair, as Chuba Hubbard was coming back from injury and is clearly an organizational favorite after signing an extension last year.

But in the two games since he’s been back, Hubbard has 26 carries for 65 yards (2.5 yards per carry), compared to Dowdle’s 25 carries for 133 yards (5.3 YPC). Eventually, the production of Dowdle will get him the 1A job, so he could be a back to target.

Injury Report

Bryce Young: Missed Week 8 with a high-ankle sprain and could miss additional time.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Bryce Young, Andy Dalton Running Back: Rico Dowdle, Chuba Hubbard, Trevor Etienne, DeeJay Dallas Wide Receiver: Tetairoa McMillan, Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, Hunter Renfrow Tight End: Ja’Tavion Sanders, Tommy Tremble, Mitchell Evans

Long-Term Trend: Who’s the No. 2 WR?

Tetairoa McMillan will clearly be the No. 1 receiver in Carolina this year, but the No. 2 is still up for grabs. Will Jalen Coker get enough reps to be viable in fantasy? Can Xavier Legette keep improving? Keep an eye on the target share for the Panthers over the next few weeks to see if anyone else from the receiving corps is worth a long-term roster spot.

New Orleans Saints

Move to Make: Stash Devin Neal

Neal didn’t see much action in Week 8, a disappointment following Kendre Miller tearing his ACL. Alvin Kamara got all six true running back carries and Taysom Hill added two.

But Neal is clearly still the No. 2 running back in New Orleans and a Kamara injury away from being a full-time starter. He should be rostered in deeper leagues.

Injury Report

Kendre Miller: Out for the season with a torn ACL.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough Running Back: Alvin Kamara, Kendre Miller, Devin Neal Wide Receiver: Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, Brandin Cooks, DeVaughn Vele Tight End: Juwan Johnson, Taysom Hill, Foster Moreau

Long-Term Trend: Better Matchups Ahead

The Saints aren’t the most appealing fantasy team, but they have a great fantasy playoffs schedule. They take on the Carolina Panthers, Jets and Titans in Weeks 15-17.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Move to Make: Add Tez Johnson

Tez Johnson ran the same number of routes as Emeka Egbuka and finished with six targets that he turned into five catches for 43 yards during the Buccaneers’ Week 8 win over the Saints.

The debate heading into Week 8 was whether to pick up Johnson or Sterling Shepard off the waiver wire. Johnson was targeted on 24% of the routes he ran while Shepard was only targeted on 11.8% of his. Add Johnson and bet on Baker making him fantasy relevant.

Injury Report

Bucky Irving: Missed Week 8 with a shoulder injury and could miss additional time. Chris Godwin: Missed Week 8 with a leg injury and could miss additional time. Mike Evans: Broke his collarbone in Week 7 and will miss most of the regular season. Jalen McMillan: On IR due to neck injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Baker Mayfield, Teddy Bridgewater Running Back: Bucky Irving, Rachaad White, Sean Tucker, Josh Williams Wide Receiver: Mike Evans, Emeka Egbuka, Chris Godwin, Sterling Shepard, Tez Johnson, Kameron Johnson Tight End: Cade Otton, Payne Durham, Devin Culp

Long-Term Trend: Ride Baker Mayfield/Hold Bucky Irving

Mayfield is one of the safest quarterbacks in fantasy football. After throwing for just 167 yards in the season opener (but also rushing for 39), Mayfield has thrown for at least 215 yards in every game since, despite facing tough defenses. Expect him to weather any storm thrown his way.

Irving has been out with an injury, and he wasn’t putting up big numbers on the ground before being sidelined. But he has been productive in the passing game with 15 receptions for 185 yards and a touchdown in his last three games. If you have a good record and can wait for a long-term investment, Irving could be a good guy to target.

Arizona Cardinals

Move to Make: Bench Michael Wilson

Wilson has run 214 routes through seven weeks, the third-highest mark on the team. He finally had some modest success in Week 6 with four catches for 44 yards. We thought Marvin Harrison Jr.’s injury could give him a chance to carve out a role in this offense but Harrison was active, and Wilson ended up with the just four catches for 40 yards.

He’s still running lots of routes, but this is Trey McBride’s offense until further notice. Wilson belongs on the bench until his role increases.

Injury Report

Kyler Murray: Missed Week 7 due to a foot injury; his practice status should be monitored heading into Week 9. Emari Demercado: Suffered an ankle injury in Week 6 and missed Week 7; status will need to be monitored heading into Week 9. Trey Benson: Placed on IR on Oct. 1 due to a knee injury. James Conner: Out for the season due to a foot injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Kyler Murray, Jacoby Brissett Running Back: Trey Benson, Michael Carter, Bam Knight, Emari Demercado Wide Receiver: Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, Zay Jones, Greg Dortch Tight End: Trey McBride, Elijah Higgins

Long-Term Trend: Backfield (Black and) Blues

After finishing second in yards per carry last season, the Cardinals have been an average team on the ground in 2025. Their offense’s viability depends on their returning to being an elite rushing team. That might be difficult given all the injuries in the backfield.

Los Angeles Rams

Move to Make: Stash Blake Corum

Corum isn’t getting a ton of action behind Kyren Williams, but he has been efficient on the ground with 4.7 yards per carry through seven weeks. If Williams were to miss time, the scramble for Corum on the waiver wire would be chaos. Stash him on your bench if you have room.

Injury Report

Puka Nacua: Expected back in Week 9 against the Saints. Tutu Atwell: Placed on IR with a hamstring injury following Week 8.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Matthew Stafford, Jimmy Garoppolo, Stetson Bennett IV Running Back: Kyren Williams, Blake Corum, Jarquez Hunter Wide Receiver: Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, Jordan Whittington, Tutu Atwell, Xavier Smith Tight End: Tyler Higbee, Davis Allen, Colby Parkinson

Long-Term Trend: Stick With Nacua and Adams

Matt Stafford continues to be a kingmaker. Puka Nacua and Davante Adams both get a heavy dose of targets when they’re both healthy. Nacua will be in the conversation for WR1 every week he’s on the field (though he’s out for Week 7) and Adams is a no-brainer starter as well.

San Francisco 49ers

Move to Make: Sell Kendrick Bourne

No 49ers receiver had more than 45 yards during Sunday’s loss to the Texans. Their open percentage as a team, is just 74%, the fourth-lowest in the league and the average depth of target on their throws is just 7.6.

The shine may have come off Bourne, as he’s had two subpar statistical outputs in a row. Until Brock Purdy comes back and we see that burst again from McCaffrey, be very wary of all and any 49ers receivers.

Injury Report

Brock Purdy: Missed Week 8 with a toe injury, and his practice status will need to be monitored for Week 9. Ricky Pearsall: Missed Week 8 with a knee injury and his practice status will need to be monitored for Week 9. Brandon Aiyuk: Has still not returned to practice while recovering from a knee injury.

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Brock Purdy, Mac Jones, Adrian Martinez Running Back: Christian McCaffrey, Brian Robinson Jr., Isaac Guerendo, Jordan James Wide Receiver: Brandon Aiyuk, Ricky Pearsall, Jauan Jennings, Kendrick Bourne, Demarcus Robinson, Skyy Moore, Marquez Valdes-Scantling Tight End: George Kittle, Jake Tonges, Luke Farrell

Long-Term Trend: Run CMC

Even with his struggles in the run game, Christian McCaffrey has maintained his elite status by catching the ball out of the backfield. He gets more targets than several No. 1 wide receivers, which will keep him virtually matchup-proof as long as he’s healthy.

Seattle Seahawks

Move to Make: Buy Kenneth Walker III

Zach Charbonnet looked like the better back in Week 7 and that might cause panic with some managers that have Walker on their roster.

But the same thing happened in Week 1 and Walker responded with 105 rushing yards and a touchdown in Week 2. His floor will always be capped by how often Charbonnet gets the work at the goal line, but Walker is still a worthy starter moving forward.

Injury Report: None of Note

Depth Chart

Quarterback: Sam Darnold, Drew Lock, Jalen Milroe Running Back: Kenneth Walker III, Zach Charbonnet, George Holani Wide Receiver: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Cooper Kupp, Tory Horton, Jake Bobo Tight End: AJ Barner, Elijah Arroyo, Eruc Saubert

Long-Term Trend: Believe in JSN

To say Sam Darnold loves to target Jaxon Smith-Njigba is an understatement. Expect JSN to be a top-five fantasy wide receiver as long as he and Darnold stay healthy.

For more coverage, follow along on social media on Instagram, Bluesky, Facebook and X.

Waiver Wire Plus: One Fantasy Football Move for Every NFL Team Entering Week 9 Opta Analyst.

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