It is time to make those tough lineup decisions for Week 8 of the fantasy football season.

Below you’ll find positional rankings, player analysis, betting totals, and implied points for every game on the slate.

Find all of our positional rankings here.

Fantasy Football Rankings & Tiers – Week 8

Last updated: 11:30 am, Saturday, October 29th. Please refer to our Rankings page for updates!

Quarterback

TierPos RnkPlayerOppGame TotalSpreadTeam TotalPPG
1QB1Josh Allenvs GB47.5-12.029.7529.5
1QB2Jalen Hurtsvs PIT43.5-10.527.0024.7
2QB3Lamar Jacksonat TB45.0-1.523.2523.3
2QB4Joe Burrowat CLE47.0-3.525.2524.6
2QB5Kyler Murrayat MIN49.03.522.7519.3
3QB6Tua Tagovailoaat DET51.5-3.527.5017.3
3QB7Kirk Cousinsvs ARI49.0-3.526.2517.1
3QB8Tom Bradyvs BAL45.01.521.7515.1
3QB9Dak Prescottvs CHI42.5-9.526.008.9
4QB10Daniel Jonesat SEA45.03.021.0017.3
4QB11Derek Carrat NO50.0-2.026.0016.6
4QB12Jimmy Garoppoloat LAR43.5-1.522.5015.7
4QB13Geno Smithvs NYG45.0-3.024.0018.1
4QB14Jared Goffvs MIA51.53.524.0017.0
4QB15Trevor Lawrencevs DEN39.0-2.520.7517.2
5QB16Justin Fieldsat DAL42.59.516.5014.6
5QB17Aaron Rodgersat BUF47.512.017.7514.3
5QB18Russell Wilsonat JAC39.02.518.2515.3
5QB19Marcus Mariotavs CAR42.0-4.523.2515.9
5QB20Sam Ehlingervs WAS40.0-3.021.50-
6QB21Matthew Staffordvs SF43.51.521.0012.3
6QB22Andy Daltonvs LV50.02.024.0016.2
6QB23Taylor Heinickeat IND40.03.018.5015.4
6QB24Jacoby Brissettvs CIN47.03.521.7513.9
6QB25Davis Millsvs TEN40.52.019.2512.5
6QB26Ryan Tannehillat HOU40.5-2.021.2512.0
6QB27Kenny Pickettat PHI43.510.516.5012.5
7QB28Mac Jonesat NYJ40.5-1.521.0011.0
7QB29Zach Wilsonvs NE40.51.519.5011.8
7QB30PJ Walkerat ATL42.04.518.756.6

Tier 1 – Joe Burrow

Burrow has three consecutive top-five finishes, averaging 30 fantasy points per game, and he doesn’t show signs of slowing down.

The Bengals are evolving into a pass-heavy offense, dropping back to pass more than the NFL average in two out of three game scripts (non-overtime):

  • Trailing by four-plus points: 68% (-1)
  • Within three points: 74% (+15)
  • Leading by four-plus points: 59% (+8)

The Bengals have the sixth-best team total on the slate, and the matchup with the Browns represents the fifth-best game total.

Burrow is a top-three option in Week 8.

Tier 3 – Tua Tagovailoa

Tagovailoa averages 20.8 fantasy points in his three full games in 2022, and the Dolphins are a pass-first offense when Tagovailoa is playing

Miami draws a salivating matchup against the Lions, who have the worst PFF pass coverage grade (43.5) and pass EPA allowed (0.206).

The matchup offers the No. 1 game total on the slate, and Miami has the second-highest team total.

Tagovailoa moves into Tier 3 as the No. 6 QB for Week 8.

Tier 4 – Geno Smith

Smith might be without Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf this weekend. If either manages to suit up, they might not be full strength.

The Giants allow only 14.8 fantasy points via the air in non-overtime play, which is a below-average matchup.

Smith has been a revelation this season, but his ranking falls outside of the top 12 this weekend.

Additional QB Notes & Movers:

  • Tier 4 – Jimmy Garoppolo averages 284 yards and two TDs per game over his last three contests. He has three top-10 finishes in that span, as the 49ers have been forced to pass more by trailing scripts. The pass rate could come down, but Garoppolo is surrounded by elite weaponry that can deliver big plays. He is a low-end QB1 streaming option in Week 8.
  • Tier 5 – Justin Fields averages 10.3 rushing attempts per game over the last for games. He saw a season-high 28% of the designed rushing attempts in Week 7 and leads the NFL with an 18% scramble rate. The Cowboys' defense allows the fourth-fewest points to pass attacks in non-overtime play (13.0), but Fields can offset those challenges with his legs. Fields is a mid-range QB2 this week.

Running back

TierPos RnkPlayerOppGame TotalSpreadTeam TotalPPG
1RB1Saquon Barkleyat SEA45.03.021.0020.2
1RB2Derrick Henryat HOU40.5-2.021.2518.3
1RB3Josh Jacobsat NO50.0-2.026.0022.2
1RB4Tony Pollardvs CHI42.5-9.526.0010.1
2RB5Nick Chubbvs CIN47.03.521.7519.7
2RB6Christian McCaffreyat LAR43.5-1.522.5018.0
2RB7Kenneth Walker IIIvs NYG45.0-3.024.0012.6
2RB8Dalvin Cookvs ARI49.0-3.526.2514.5
2RB9Alvin Kamaravs LV50.02.024.0014.8
2RB10Jonathan Taylorvs WAS40.0-3.021.5013.1
2RB11Joe Mixonat CLE47.0-3.525.2514.8
2RB12Leonard Fournettevs BAL45.01.521.7516.9
2RB13Rhamondre Stevensonat NYJ40.5-1.521.0016.0
2RB14D'Andre Swiftvs MIA51.53.524.0016.9
3RB15Aaron Jonesat BUF47.512.017.7515.5
3RB16Dameon Piercevs TEN40.52.019.2515.6
3RB17Travis Etienne Jr.vs DEN39.0-2.520.7510.9
3RB18Raheem Mostertat DET51.5-3.527.5010.3
3RB19Miles Sandersvs PIT43.5-10.527.0014.6
3RB20Najee Harrisat PHI43.510.516.5010.8
3RB21D'Onta Foremanat ATL42.04.518.753.4
3RB22Devin Singletaryvs GB47.5-12.029.7511.4
3RB23Eno Benjaminat MIN49.03.522.7510.6
4RB24Michael Cartervs NE40.51.519.5010.0
4RB25David Montgomeryat DAL42.59.516.5010.7
4RB26Jamaal Williamsvs MIA51.53.524.0014.1
4RB27Kareem Huntvs CIN47.03.521.7510.6
4RB28Brian Robinson Jr.at IND40.03.018.508.3
4RB29Darrell Henderson Jr.vs SF43.51.521.008.6
4RB30Tyler Allgeiervs CAR42.0-4.523.256.5
4RB31Gus Edwardsat TB45.0-1.523.2518.6
4RB32Melvin Gordon IIIat JAC39.02.518.257.1
5RB33Damien Harrisat NYJ40.5-1.521.009.5
5RB34Khalil Herbertat DAL42.59.516.5011.8
5RB35AJ Dillonat BUF47.512.017.758.2
5RB36James Robinsonvs NE40.51.519.5010.2
5RB37Latavius Murrayat JAC39.02.518.257.8
5RB38Antonio Gibsonat IND40.03.018.5012.0
5RB39Rachaad Whitevs BAL45.01.521.755.1
5RB40Kenyan Drakeat TB45.0-1.523.256.1
5RB41Nyheim Hinesvs WAS40.0-3.021.506.8
6RB42Jeff Wilson Jr.at LAR43.5-1.522.509.8
6RB43Chase Edmondsat DET51.5-3.527.506.9
6RB44Caleb Huntleyvs CAR42.0-4.523.254.7
6RB45Alexander Mattisonvs ARI49.0-3.526.255.9
6RB46J.D. McKissicat IND40.03.018.507.3
6RB47Dontrell Hilliardat HOU40.5-2.021.259.2
6RB48Rex Burkheadvs TEN40.52.019.258.1
6RB49Kenneth Gainwellvs PIT43.5-10.527.004.6
6RB50Keaontay Ingramat MIN49.03.522.756.2
6RB51Jaylen Warrenat PHI43.510.516.503.7
6RB52Justice Hillat TB45.0-1.523.253.8
6RB53Mark Ingram IIvs LV50.02.024.005.4
7RB54DeeJay Dallasvs NYG45.0-3.024.001.9
7RB55Samaje Perineat CLE47.0-3.525.255.5
7RB56JaMycal Hastyvs DEN39.0-2.520.753.5
7RB57James Cookvs GB47.5-12.029.753.6
7RB58Malcolm Brownvs SF43.51.521.003.8
7RB59Boston Scottvs PIT43.5-10.527.002.9
7RB60Raheem Blackshearat ATL42.04.518.75-0.2
7RB61Zamir Whiteat NO50.0-2.026.000.5
7RB62D'Ernest Johnsonvs CIN47.03.521.750.7
7RB63Matt Breidaat SEA45.03.021.002.3
7RB64Ty Johnsonvs NE40.51.519.500.8
7RB65Brandon Boldenat NO50.0-2.026.004.4
7RB66Deon Jacksonvs WAS40.0-3.021.5010.3
7RB67Avery Williamsvs CAR42.0-4.523.252.4
7RB68Zack Mossvs GB47.5-12.029.753.4
7RB69Marlon Mackat JAC39.02.518.250.0
7RB70Tyrion Davis-Priceat LAR43.5-1.522.501.9

Tier 1 – Derrick Henry 

Henry got off to a rough start averaging 8.3 points over the first two games this season but averages 23.4 over the last four contests. Over that stretch, he has 16 targets – the most of any four-game period in his career.

Dontrell Hilliard is still the primary passing-down option, but the additional targets could come in handy in trailing game scripts where the Titans are forced to pass more. Most importantly, Henry continues to get all of the big-money touches with 83% of attempts inside the five-yard line.

WeekSnapsRush AttRoutesTargetsTPRRSDD Snapsi5 AttLDD Snaps2MIN SnapsPPR
168%81%38%3%7%75%0%18%0%8.0
246%50%27%0%0%56%100%0%0%8.5
374%74%50%23%38%100%50%0%0%25.3
469%84%41%24%45%75%0%11%44%24.1
564%90%24%9%25%83%100%0%0%27.2
775%83%43%16%33%100%0%0%0%16.8
YTD66%78%37%12%26%76%83%5%17%18.3


In Week 8, the Titans get a matchup against the Texans, who have the worst PFF rush defense grade (36.9) and allow 22.9 non-overtime points per game on the ground.

The Titans are a run-heavy team, averaging the fifth-most attempts per game in non-overtime (28) and opponents average 30.5 attempts against Houston. This could be another 30-plus touch day for Tennessee’s lead RB.

Henry moves to No. 2 in the ranks for Week 8.

Tier 1 – Tony Pollard

The Cowboys expect Ezekiel Elliott (knee) to miss their Week 8 game against the Bears, opening up the door for an every-down workload for Pollard – who has the No. 3 PFF rushing grade (90.1) out of backs with at least 50 rushing attempts in 2022.

The Cowboys have the fifth-best team total on the slate and are the third-most favored team. Dallas runs the ball more than the NFL average in close (+4) and trailing game scripts (+6). 

Teams run the ball 31.6 times per game in non-overtime play against the Bears – the most in the NFL. In regulation play, Chicago allows the third most yards (150) and TDs (1.4) on the ground.

Efficiency, utilization, game environment and matchup align for Pollard this weekend, making him a SMASH play as my RB4 overall.

Tier 2 – Joe Mixon 

Mixon hasn’t been good in 2022. Out of backs with at least 50 attempts (42 qualifiers), he ranks among the league's worst in multiple efficiency measures, per PFF:

  • Missed tackles forced per attempt: 0.09 (41st)
  • Average yards after contact: 2.02 (42nd)
  • Attempts of 10-plus yards: 6% (38th)

However, the utilization has been there. Mixon averages 73% of the snaps and 75% of the rushing attempts.

WeekSnapsRush AttRoutesTargetsTPRRSDD Snapsi5 AttLDD Snaps2MIN SnapsPPR
173%93%56%16%21%86%100%13%73%21.5
275%83%52%13%17%100%0%24%71%11.3
366%44%63%18%24%60%100%23%100%6.8
483%85%59%13%19%100%100%0%0%17.4
570%67%52%10%15%75%0%9%30%11.8
672%67%58%15%21%67%0%14%0%16.8
772%81%53%8%13%60%50%29%0%18.1
YTD73%75%56%13%19%76%75%16%50%14.8


The Browns have the second-lowest PFF run-defense grade (41.9) and allow 135 yards (sixth-highest) and 1.9 TDs (second-most) per game in non-overtime.

Despite his efficiency woes, this could be a week for Mixon to get right in a game where the Bengals offer a top-six team total. The veteran back has a great shot to score a rushing TD or two this weekend.

Mixon is a SMASH play as the RB11 this weekend.

Tier 3 – Raheem Mostert

Over the last four games, Mostert has taken control of the Dolphins backfield averaging 68% of snaps, 69% of rushing attempts and 59% route participation. In three out of four games, he has dominated the long-down-distance and two-minute opportunities.

WeekSnapsRush AttRoutesTargetsTPRRSDD Snapsi5 AttLDD Snaps2MIN SnapsPPR
142%22%35%3%8%50%0%30%0%4.2
255%61%45%6%13%50%0%25%0%10.9
356%44%48%6%9%43%0%50%0%1.1
472%68%64%9%12%75%100%60%100%10.1
569%69%54%10%15%57%0%60%89%19.2
661%74%48%5%7%83%0%31%36%5.8
771%67%71%14%19%67%0%62%100%20.9
YTD61%58%52%7%12%59%17%46%64%10.3


Mostert ranks above the NFL average in missed tackles forced per attempt (+30), average yards after contact (+0.30) and 10-plus yard attempts (+2.5).

The Dolphins have a great matchup against the Lions, who allow the most rushing yards (163) and TDs (2) per game in non-overtime play. This matchup offers the No. 1 game total on the slate, and Miami has the No. 2 team total.

Mostert is a great mid-range RB2 with upside and is a SMASH play in Week 8.

Tier 3 – D’Onta Foreman

Foreman worked behind Chuba Hubbard last weekend until an ankle injury opened the door in the fourth quarter. With Hubbard ruled out for Week 8, Foreman is in line for the lion's share of touches. 

In a good offense, that would equate to a high-end RB2 or low-end RB1 rating, but in Carolina, all bets are off. However, volume is king at the RB position, and the Falcons are an average run defense.

If you don’t need Foreman, selling high remains a viable move, but his value should hold with Hubbard out if you need a spot start.

Foreman is a low-end RB2 for Week 8.
 

Tier 3 – Eno Benjamin

Benjamin has finishes of RB6, RB21 and RB23 without James Conner and Darrel Williams. Conner is out, and Williams (knee) is a game-time decision. 

Benjamin has averaged 81% of snaps, 50% of rush attempts and 12% of targets over the three-game stretch, which is a solid RB-2 utilization profile. 

The Vikings have the third-best PFF run defense grade (79.3), and the Cardinals won’t have their starting center, Rodney Hudson. If Williams is active, that also creates some uncertainty about Benjamin’s workload.

Benjamin is a low-end RB2 if Williams is active, but bumps up to mid-range RB2 status if Williams is out.

Tier 4 – Tyler Allgeier

Allgeier quietly expanded his workload in Week 7 with a season-high 62% of Atlanta’s rushing attempts. He also led the team in short-down-distance (SDD) work over the last three games, which correlates with touches near the goalline and TDs.

WeekSnapsRush AttRoutesTargetsTPRRSDD Snapsi5 AttLDD Snaps2MIN SnapsPPR
444%29%40%6%13%0%0%88%0%11.4
559%45%54%0%0%80%0%71%0%4.5
657%38%68%0%0%69%0%83%0%5.1
762%62%38%0%0%83%100%50%0%11.0
YTD39%32%31%1%3%53%43%51%6%6.5

Out of 42 RBs with at least 50 rushing attempts, Allgeier ranks 36th in missed tackles forced per attempt, 27th in average yards after contact and 41st in 10-plus-yard attempts.

However, the Falcons are committed to the ground game, rushing on a league-leading 53% of plays. The Panthers' opponents run 29.3 times per game in non-overtime play – the sixth-most.

Allgeier is a mid-range RB3 with RB2 upside.

Additional RB Notes & Movers:

  • Tier 3 – Travis Etienne handled his largest workload of the season in Week 7, and that trend will continue after the trade of James Robinson to the Jets. The second-year RB posted a season-high 18.9 fantasy points, which might be tough to duplicate against the Broncos, who have the seventh-highest grade in run defense at PFF (69.0). However, Denver plays zone the third-most (79%), which should lead to more looks underneath looks for Etienne (17% target rate vs. zone). Etienne is a mid-range RB2.
  • Tier 3 – Devin Singletary and the Bills are 12-point favorites against the Packers, which is usually a great thing for an RB. However, Singletary has been more heavily utilized in close and trailing game scripts this season (78% snap share) versus leading (50%). The Packers offer a top-six rushing matchup, allowing 19.3 points per game in non-overtime, but Singletary will need a competitive game script to take advantage. Singletary is a low-end RB2.
  • Tier 4 – Michael Carter should handle most of the passing-down work, but new teammate James Robinson could poach some early-down snaps. If there is a game where Carter should hold a clear lead over the backfield, it should be this week with Robinson still getting acclimated. The Patriots allow the seventh-most rushing yards per game (132) in regulation play. Carter is a high-end RB3 with upside.

Wide Receiver

TierPos RnkPlayerOppGame TotalSpreadTeam TotalPPG
1WR1Cooper Kuppvs SF43.51.521.0024.8
1WR2Stefon Diggsvs GB47.5-12.029.7525.1
1WR3Justin Jeffersonvs ARI49.0-3.526.2522.1
1WR4Tyreek Hillat DET51.5-3.527.5021.2
1WR5Davante Adamsat NO50.0-2.026.0019.7
2WR6Tee Higginsat CLE47.0-3.525.2514.8
2WR7DeAndre Hopkinsat MIN49.03.522.7520.3
2WR8CeeDee Lambvs CHI42.5-9.526.0014.0
2WR9Jaylen Waddleat DET51.5-3.527.5016.3
2WR10A.J. Brownvs PIT43.5-10.527.0015.9
2WR11Amon-Ra St. Brownvs MIA51.53.524.0016.1
2WR12Mike Evansvs BAL45.01.521.7516.1
2WR13Chris Godwinvs BAL45.01.521.7511.7
2WR14Chris Olavevs LV50.02.024.0015.6
2WR15Amari Coopervs CIN47.03.521.7514.3
3WR16Christian Kirkvs DEN39.0-2.520.7514.4
3WR17Michael Pittman Jr.vs WAS40.0-3.021.5015.9
3WR18Gabe Davisvs GB47.5-12.029.7515.3
3WR19Brandon Aiyukat LAR43.5-1.522.5013.0
3WR20DeVonta Smithvs PIT43.5-10.527.0014.1
3WR21Tyler Boydat CLE47.0-3.525.2513.6
3WR22Tyler Lockettvs NYG45.0-3.024.0014.0
3WR23Diontae Johnsonat PHI43.510.516.5010.8
3WR24Brandin Cooksvs TEN40.52.019.2510.4
3WR25DJ Mooreat ATL42.04.518.7510.0
3WR26Jakobi Meyersat NYJ40.5-1.521.0014.8
3WR27Terry McLaurinat IND40.03.018.5012.1
3WR28Courtland Suttonat JAC39.02.518.2512.3
4WR29George Pickensat PHI43.510.516.509.4
4WR30Adam Thielenvs ARI49.0-3.526.2511.9
4WR31Jerry Jeudyat JAC39.02.518.2510.7
4WR32Rashod Batemanat TB45.0-1.523.2510.7
4WR33Curtis Samuelat IND40.03.018.5013.0
4WR34Wan'Dale Robinsonat SEA45.03.021.008.4
4WR35Drake Londonvs CAR42.0-4.523.2510.2
4WR36Romeo Doubsat BUF47.512.017.758.6
4WR37Marquise Goodwinvs NYG45.0-3.024.006.1
4WR38Michael Gallupvs CHI42.5-9.526.005.7
4WR39Rondale Mooreat MIN49.03.522.758.0
5WR40Darnell Mooneyat DAL42.59.516.507.1
5WR41Garrett Wilsonvs NE40.51.519.5010.2
5WR42Hunter Renfrowat NO50.0-2.026.007.8
5WR43Chase Claypoolat PHI43.510.516.509.4
5WR44Robert Woodsat HOU40.5-2.021.258.2
5WR45Parris Campbellvs WAS40.0-3.021.509.1
5WR46Alec Piercevs WAS40.0-3.021.509.6
5WR47Allen Robinson IIvs SF43.51.521.007.7
5WR48Elijah Moorevs NE40.51.519.505.1
5WR49Zay Jonesvs DEN39.0-2.520.7511.1
5WR50Donovan Peoples-Jonesvs CIN47.03.521.758.3
5WR51Isaiah McKenzievs GB47.5-12.029.7510.4
5WR52Devin Duvernayat TB45.0-1.523.2510.6
5WR53DeVante Parkerat NYJ40.5-1.521.007.6
5WR54Darius Slaytonat SEA45.03.021.008.4
5WR55Josh Reynoldsvs MIA51.53.524.0011.7
6WR56Noah Brownvs CHI42.5-9.526.009.0
6WR57Tyquan Thorntonat NYJ40.5-1.521.009.0
6WR58Marvin Jones Jr.vs DEN39.0-2.520.759.1
6WR59Sammy Watkinsat BUF47.512.017.757.6
6WR60Robbie Andersonat MIN49.03.522.756.3
6WR61Mack Hollinsat NO50.0-2.026.0010.5
6WR62Braxton Berriosvs NE40.51.519.505.9
6WR63Julio Jonesvs BAL45.01.521.756.7
6WR64Marquez Callawayvs LV50.02.024.005.8
6WR65Tre'Quan Smithvs LV50.02.024.008.7
6WR66Christian Watsonat BUF47.512.017.755.0
6WR67Olamide Zaccheausvs CAR42.0-4.523.258.5
6WR68Terrace Marshall Jr.at ATL42.04.518.754.0
6WR69Nick Westbrook-Ikhineat HOU40.5-2.021.254.2
6WR70Jauan Jenningsat LAR43.5-1.522.504.6
6WR71K.J. Hamlerat JAC39.02.518.253.0
6WR72Dante Pettisat DAL42.59.516.504.9
6WR73K.J. Osbornvs ARI49.0-3.526.257.1
6WR74Kalif Raymondvs MIA51.53.524.005.1
6WR75Demarcus Robinsonat TB45.0-1.523.253.8
6WR76Equanimeous St. Brownat DAL42.59.516.505.2
7WR77Shi Smithat ATL42.04.518.752.6
7WR78David Bellvs CIN47.03.521.752.4
7WR79Ray-Ray McCloudat LAR43.5-1.522.503.7
7WR80Greg Dortchat MIN49.03.522.757.9
7WR81Dee Eskridgevs NYG45.0-3.024.002.1
7WR82Trent Sherfieldat DET51.5-3.527.503.7
7WR83Ben Skowronekvs SF43.51.521.008.8
7WR84Van Jeffersonvs SF43.51.521.000.0
7WR85Cam Simsat IND40.03.018.501.1
7WR86Chris Moorevs TEN40.52.019.255.8
7WR87Khalil Shakirvs GB47.5-12.029.755.8
7WR88A.J. Greenat MIN49.03.522.753.5
7WR89Marcus Johnsonat SEA45.03.021.003.7
7WR90Scotty Millervs BAL45.01.521.753.7
7WR91Laviska Shenault Jr.at ATL42.04.518.756.3
7WR92KhaDarel Hodgevs CAR42.0-4.523.253.8
7WR93Phillip Dorsett IIvs TEN40.52.019.253.0
7WR94Rashid Shaheedvs LV50.02.024.0011.4

Tier 2 – DeAndre Hopkins

Hopkins exploded with a 50% target share in his first game back. The 30-year-old WR is the favorite to lead the Cardinals’ receiving corps while Marquise Brown is out.

Arizona plays against a Vikings defense that grades as PFF’s second-worst coverage unit. Opposing pass-catchers average 58.5 points per game (eighth-most) in non-overtime play against Minnesota. The contest has shootout potential with a top-three game total.

Hopkins is a low-end WR1.

Tier 2 – Tee Higgins

Higgins has a 24% target share in five healthy games, and now Ja’Marr Chase is out for Week 8 and probably longer.

WeekRoutesTPRRTargetsADOTAir YardsEZ Tgts3rd/4th Down TargetsPA TargetsPPR
124%13%4%9.05%0%7%50%4.7
298%20%28%11.256%100%33%11%19.1
390%20%21%15.936%20%17%29%14.3
484%30%28%11.031%0%22%33%25.4
517%0%0%0.00%0%0%0%0.0
689%24%26%7.230%0%0%11%10.7
798%16%18%11.020%0%25%29%14.3
YTD68%20%17%11.024%10%15%23%12.6

he 2020 second-round pick is playing at a high level, ranking 11th in yards per route run (YPRR) and 13th in PFF receiving grade out of 51 WRs with 200 routes in 2022.

The Bengals could slightly alter their game plan with Chase out, but so far this season, they pass the ball more than any other team on plays when the score is within three points in non-overtime play.

Passing is this team's identity, and Joe Burrow is playing at an extremely high level, averaging 300 yards passing per game (second-most).

Higgins ranks as the No. 6 WR in Week 8 – five spots ahead of industry consensus.

Tier 2 – Chris Olave

Olave has a 26% target rate (TPRR) and has reached a 25%-plus target share in five out of six games – including one he didn’t finish. Of WRs with at least a 70% route participation, he ranks sixth in yards per route run (YPRR) at 2.46. The rookie’s early-career performance bodes well for his long-term prospects.

New Orleans plays a Las Vegas offense that scores at a high rate, converting the fifth-most drives into TDs (26%). Additionally, the Raiders allow the third-most points to pass catchers per game in non-overtime play (62.9). They rank 31st in passing EPA allowed (0.177) – only the Lions are worse.

All of these factors align to create the second-highest game total on the slate. The Saints carry a top-seven team total.

Olave is in one of those spots where everything is lining up in his favor, making him a SMASH play as a mid-range WR2.

Tier 3 – Brandon Aiyuk

Historically, Aiyuk has not been good against the Rams (or heavy zone teams), garnering only a 16% target rate (TPRR). However, the 49ers won’t have Deebo Samuel this weekend, and we could see an adjustment to Aiyuk’s route tree.

In games without Samuel over the last two years, Aiyuk has a 23% TPRR – which is a four-point percentage bump over his average.

Aiyuk is a mid-range WR2.

Tier 3 – Tyler Boyd

Boyd gets a bump with Ja’Marr Chase out for Week 8 against the Browns. From 2018 to 2020, the veteran WR was a 21% TPRR player averaging 14.3 fantasy points per game. He posted two top-18 finishes.

The Bengals pass the ball above the league average in close and trailing game scripts, and Joe Burrow is playing at a high level.

Those factors make Boyd a low-end WR2 option this weekend against Cleveland.

Tier 4 – Marquise Goodwin

Tyler Lockett and D.K. Metcalf are both game-time decisions against the Giants in a late-kick game.

The 32-year-old WR  isn’t a big target earner (16% TPRR), but he offers big-play upside and could see a slight bump in target share via schemed looks.

Goodwin is a high-end WR4.

Additional WR Notes & Movers:

  • Tier 2 – Amon-Ra St. Brown matches up with the Dolphins in a game with the highest total on the week. Miami uses man coverage the third-most (43%), and ARSB has a 38% target rate (TPRR) against man looks. Miami allows the sixth-most yards through the air in non-overtime play, and the Sun God should lead the way for the Lions. He is a low-end WR1.
  • Tier 2 – Tyler Lockett (hamstring/ribs) was limited in practice on Friday and is officially a game-time decision. Lockett still belongs in most starting lineups if active, but he falls nine spots in the ranks to WR22. Think of him as a boom-bust WR3 option and adjust accordingly.
  • Tier 3 – DeVonta Smith is having a great second season with a 25% target share and four top-25 finishes in six games. The Eagles have the third-best team total and matchup against a Steelers defense, allowing the fifth-most receiving yards per game in non-overtime play (273). Smith is a low-end WR2 with WR1 upside.
  • Tier 3 – Brandin Cooks is not playing as bad as his 10.4 points per game suggest. He has a 23% target share, averaging 7.5 targets per game. Those are WR3-worthy numbers, and the Texans get a JUICY matchup against a Titans defense, allowing the second-most points to pass catchers in non-overtime play at 68.3. Start Cooks with confidence this weekend as a high-end WR3.  
  • Tier 4 – Adam Thielen is a distant second (20% target share) option behind Justin Jefferson. Still, the Vikings and Cardinals have shootout potential with the third-best game total. Arizona has the third-worst pass coverage grade at PFF (49.7). Consider Thielen a mid-range WR3 with TD upside.
  • Tier 4 – Wan’Dale Robinson expanded his route participation to 81% last weekend and has a 27% target rate (TPRR) on the season. The rookie is your undisputed leader in the Giants' passing game, and the Seahawks have the sixth-worst PFF pass coverage grade (57.0). Robinson is a low-end WR3 option in PPR formats.

Tight end

TierPos RnkPlayerOppGame TotalSpreadTeam TotalPPG
1TE1George Kittleat LAR43.5-1.522.5011.4
1TE2Mark Andrewsat TB45.0-1.523.2516.5
2TE3Zach Ertzat MIN49.03.522.7512.1
2TE4Dallas Goedertvs PIT43.5-10.527.0011.3
3TE5T.J. Hockensonvs MIA51.53.524.0012.4
3TE6Tyler Higbeevs SF43.51.521.0010.6
4TE7Taysom Hillvs LV50.02.024.0012.3
4TE8Pat Freiermuthat PHI43.510.516.5010.8
4TE9Hayden Hurstat CLE47.0-3.525.259.1
4TE10Kyle Pittsvs CAR42.0-4.523.256.6
4TE11Robert Tonyanat BUF47.512.017.758.7
4TE12Dalton Schultzvs CHI42.5-9.526.005.0
4TE13Evan Engramvs DEN39.0-2.520.758.2
4TE14Cade Ottonvs BAL45.01.521.755.4
5TE15Irv Smith Jr.vs ARI49.0-3.526.257.3
5TE16Dawson Knoxvs GB47.5-12.029.757.2
5TE17Greg Dulcichat JAC39.02.518.2511.8
5TE18Mike Gesickiat DET51.5-3.527.508.0
5TE19Juwan Johnsonvs LV50.02.024.007.3
5TE20Hunter Henryat NYJ40.5-1.521.005.3
5TE21Harrison Bryantvs CIN47.03.521.754.2
6TE22Noah Fantvs NYG45.0-3.024.006.0
6TE23Logan Thomasat IND40.03.018.507.4
6TE24Cole Kmetat DAL42.59.516.503.8
6TE25Will Disslyvs NYG45.0-3.024.008.1
6TE26Tyler Conklinvs NE40.51.519.507.9
6TE27Austin Hooperat HOU40.5-2.021.253.4
7TE28Foster Moreauat NO50.0-2.026.006.4
7TE29Mo Alie-Coxvs WAS40.0-3.021.507.3
7TE30Kylen Gransonvs WAS40.0-3.021.504.8
7TE31Tommy Trembleat ATL42.04.518.753.8
7TE32Chris Myarickat SEA45.03.021.002.8
7TE33Isaiah Likelyat TB45.0-1.523.253.4
7TE34Jordan Akinsvs TEN40.52.019.257.9
7TE35Brevin Jordanvs TEN40.52.019.251.3

Tier 1 – Mark Andrews

Andrews is questionable for Thursday Night Football after missing practice all week with a knee injury. He played through the injury last weekend but was a dud in fantasy.

However, in most cases, if you have Andrews, you are playing him if active. At the tight end position, the pivot options are minimal, and all come with a low floor and ceiling unless you play in a small league or also drafted a George Kittle or Zach Ertz.

While Andrews remains a Tier 1 option, he does move down the overall ranks due to injury concerns. He is normally a top-12 player but is No. 39 overall in Week 8.

Tier 1 – George Kittle

Kittle has slowly ramped up his target involvement over the last three games.

WeekRoutesTPRRTargetsADOTAir YardsEZ Tgts3rd/4th Down TargetsPA TargetsPPR
386%14%14%4.06%0%0%0%6.8
493%17%17%8.022%100%10%25%4.4
586%19%19%6.414%0%30%40%9.7
696%23%23%3.811%100%0%33%16.3
784%21%21%11.429%67%33%33%21.8
YTD67%19%15%7.013%50%11%29%11.8


All of the 49ers' weapons get a slight upgrade this weekend with Deebo Samuel (hamstring) out of action. However, Kittle gets the biggest bump for three reasons:

  • Kittle is showing signs of life over the last two games, with 16.3 and 21.8 fantasy points.
  • Over the last 10 games without Samuel, Kittle has a 28% target rate. For reference, the average top-3 TE had a 23% target rate over the last 10 years.
  • He has a 26% target rate against the Rams in their last five matchups. Los Angeles plays the most zone coverage in the NFL (85%), and Kittle's target rate is 28% against zone over the last four seasons vs. 22% against man.

Kittle is the No. 1 TE and is in a SMASH spot.

Tier 2 – Robert Tonyan

Tonyan hasn’t reached the 80% route participation we love to see from tight ends, but he is hovering just below that over the last two games.

WeekRoutesTPRRTargetsADOTAir YardsEZ Tgts3rd/4th Down TargetsPA TargetsPPR
144%21%12%6.513%100%14%50%6.6
250%14%9%-0.5-1%0%0%100%3.1
362%30%21%2.18%0%15%0%9.7
461%9%6%9.56%50%0%50%10.2
553%18%11%-1.8-3%0%29%25%6.3
674%32%27%7.925%0%40%0%19.0
773%16%15%5.214%0%0%20%6.2
YTD60%22%15%4.811%25%17%19%8.7

The Packers are short on weapons, and the veteran’s 22% target rate (TPRR) is higher than Allen Lazard (20%) or Romeo Doubs (19%). Tonyan is in the mix to lead the Packers in targets on any given weekend – especially if his route participation takes another step forward.

The Bills' have a top-eight coverage unit according to PFF grades (71.5), but they run zone the sixth-most (74%). Heavy zone coverage can lead to more tight-end targets, which we have seen with Tonyan this season. Against zone coverage, Tonyan has the No. 1 target rate on the team at 30%.

The Packers have one of the worst team totals on the slate, which keeps Tonyan outside of the top 10. However, he is a viable option on this slate.

Tonyan is a sneaky low-end TE1 option.

Additional TE Notes & Movers:

  • Tier 4 – Cade Otton will start for the Buccaneers on Thursday night, with Cameron Brate ruled out. The rookie has finishes of TE13 and TE10 in his two starts, so he is a viable streaming option as a high-end TE2 with upside.
  • Tier 5 – Harrison Bryant will take over the starting tight end role with David Njoku sidelined. The Browns operate a TE-friendly offense with plenty of play-action looks. Bryant is a mid-range TE2 with upside.