Fantasy football managers, are you ready to tackle Week 8? With the season halfway over, every lineup decision is crucial. To help guide you to victory, we’ve gathered expert advice from ESPN’s top fantasy analysts. They’re here to answer all your pressing start/sit questions and provide the latest injury updates as of Sunday morning.
Injury News to Watch
Several key fantasy players are dealing with injuries heading into Week 8 kickoffs. According to reports, Baker Mayfield’s wide receiving corps may be depleted today. Stay tuned as we monitor who is declared active or inactive.
Start or Sit Baker Mayfield?
The Carolina Panthers quarterback faces a favorable matchup this week. However, with his top pass-catchers questionable, can you trust Mayfield as a QB1? Our experts weigh in:
“Mayfield moves into low-end QB1 territory if his receivers play. But if they’re out, he’s more of a high-end QB2 option. You likely have safer alternatives.”
– Eric Karabell
For managers in superflex or two-QB formats, Mayfield is still startable. In single-QB leagues, pivoting to a healthier passer may be wise.
Flex Appeal: Sleepers to Consider
Mining the waiver wire for a flex starter? Here are some widely available sleeper candidates to consider plugging into your lineup:
- Khalil Herbert, RB, Chicago Bears
- Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, New York Giants
- Greg Dulcich, TE, Denver Broncos
All three of these players have seen expanded roles in recent weeks and possess tantalizing upside. If you’re an underdog in your matchup, taking a flier on one could pay off.
Week 8 Bust Alerts
On the flip side, some big names may be in for disappointing days. Tristan H. Cockcroft advises tempering expectations for these stars:
“Patrick Mahomes faces a surprisingly stingy San Francisco 49ers secondary. He’s still a locked-in QB1, but don’t anticipate a ceiling game.”
– Tristan H. Cockcroft
“The Los Angeles Chargers run defense has been leaky, but I still can’t fully endorse James Robinson. The workload split with Travis Etienne makes him a volatile RB2.”
– Tristan H. Cockcroft
Cockcroft ranks both Mahomes and Robinson outside his top 5 at their respective positions this week. Don’t bench them outright, but beware of potential landmines.
Fantasy Trade Market: Deadline Approaching
With the fantasy trade deadline looming in many leagues, should you wheel and deal? Eric Moody discusses strategy:
“If you’re on the playoff bubble, now is the time to make an aggressive move. Pairing volatile boom/bust players with a stud can elevate your ceiling.”
– Eric Moody
Top trade targets: Christian McCaffrey, Davante Adams, Saquon Barkley
Bottom line: Week 8 presents unique challenges with six teams on bye and injuries sidelining key contributors. Closely monitor Sunday morning reports and be prepared to adjust on the fly. If you’re debating between two players, lean toward the one with the safer floor. Good luck, managers!
