Week 8 proved to be a telling period for both real-life NFL teams and Fantasy managers as contenders began to separate themselves from pretenders. While squads like the Broncos, Lions, Steelers, and Buccaneers secured victories, teams such as the Browns, Falcons, and Cowboys suffered losses, and the Ravens faced a major blow with Lamar Jackson potentially missing the rest of the season. In Fantasy leagues, teams with three or fewer losses sit comfortably, whereas managers with four or more defeats face mounting pressure.
Week 8 Fantasy Winners
Broncos rookie running back Jonah Coleman dominated the second half of Denver’s victory against the Kansas City Chiefs. He fueled the win by setting up a late red-zone trip with a 51-yard catch-and-run before scoring a five-yard touchdown. Marking his second consecutive week as the team’s top running back with an increased target volume, Coleman holds weekly No. 2 running back potential unless Denver makes a trade for another running back.
Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson recorded 13 or more PPR points in three of his last four games, with the sole exception being a game he exited early due to a concussion. He has developed a strong bond with Kyler Murray, particularly on seam routes where Murray trusts him to secure second-level passes. Despite upcoming tough defensive matchups against Green Bay, San Francisco, and New England, Hockenson stays startable as a low-end option, with difficult opponents potentially sparking increased passing volume.
Week 8 Fantasy Losers
Cardinals wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. failed to score any Fantasy points following back-to-back standout weeks where he excelled both vertically and on short routes. Quarterback Geno Smith targeted Adonai Mitchell downfield and distributed short-range throws to Garrett Wilson, entirely erasing Cooper’s target opportunities and pushing him to the periphery of the No. 3 wide receiver conversation.
Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf endured a difficult performance featuring a crucial dropped pass on a potential big-play opportunity. Even accounting for that missed play, his statistics remained minimal with just one catch for four yards on six targets. With only three games above 8 PPR points and two games above 13 PPR points, managers face tough roster decisions ahead of his Week 9 bye.
For a complete game-by-game breakdown and additional advice on starting and sitting players, fans can view the full episode on the Week 8 Winners & Losers Fantasy Football Recap podcast.
