Fantasy Football Week 8: Top Waiver Wire Picks for Key Player Replacements Amidst Injuries
ICARO Media Group
**Fantasy Football Week 8: Waiver Wire Picks Amid Injuries**
Fantasy football managers are facing a challenging Week 8 as a wave of injuries has sidelined key players like Chris Godwin, Mike Evans, Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, and Rashid Shaheed. Although no NFL teams have a bye this week, these injuries have created significant gaps in many lineups. To address this, fantasy players must delve deep into the waiver wire to find viable replacements. Here's a look at some top options, sorted by their availability in Fantrax leagues, with suggested bid values based on a $100 free agent acquisition budget (FAAB).
Rashod Bateman is emerging as a potential key player for the Ravens. With Lamar Jackson firing on all cylinders and Zay Flowers dealing with a tweaked ankle, Bateman could see increased targets. Last week, he caught all four of his targets for 121 yards and a touchdown. He represents a solid pick with a FAAB bid suggestion of $10.
The San Francisco 49ers are in desperate need of pass-catchers following injuries to multiple key receivers. Ricky Pearsall, the team's first-round pick, made a solid NFL debut after recovering from an off-field injury. With Brandon Aiyuk out for the season, and Jauan Jennings and Deebo Samuel also sidelined, Pearsall is likely to see more action. His FAAB bid is recommended at $13.
In Miami, Cedrick Wilson topped the charts with seven receptions for 86 yards and a touchdown, although this performance came with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. With Tua Tagovailoa expected to return, Wilson's targets may decrease but he's still worth considering, especially in tight end-streaming leagues, with a $4 FAAB bid.
Russell Wilson made a strong comeback from a calf injury, throwing for 264 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another score. He remains a valuable spot starter, particularly during bye weeks, with a recommended FAAB bid of $5.
For those grappling with Jonathan Taylor's absence, Tyler Goodson has shown more productivity than Trey Sermon. Goodson could be a viable replacement with a FAAB bid suggestion of $6.
Rookie Trey McMillan offers potential upside for the Buccaneers, who lost Chris Godwin and have Mike Evans nursing a hamstring injury. McMillan saw significant targets even before Godwin's injury, making him a worthy pickup with an $8 FAAB bid.
Deshaun Watson's struggles have made way for Jameis Winston in Cleveland, pending further injury updates. Winston's aggressive playstyle could lead to both big plays and turnovers, making him a risky yet potentially rewarding option at a $1 FAAB bid.
In Cleveland, Cedric Tillman led Browns receivers with 12 targets, catching eight for 81 yards. As the Browns may often find themselves playing from behind, Tillman is an intriguing choice at a $5 FAAB bid.
Lastly, Kalif Raymond is expected to see increased snaps for the Detroit Lions while Jameson Williams serves a suspension. Raymond caught his first touchdown of the season last week, suggesting he's worth a $4 FAAB bid.
In summary, fantasy managers have several waiver wire options to consider despite the numerous injuries plaguing key players. From rising stars like Rashod Bateman to critical fill-ins like Ricky Pearsall, these picks provide opportunities to navigate this challenging week.