Week 8 Exemption Wire Watch
We’re gearing up for the weekend’s NFL matchups, and it seems hard to believe we’re almost halfway through the 2025 regular season. Some defenses really stood out this past weekend, with a number of teams held to 10 points or fewer.
As we look ahead to Week 8, here are some defensive units you might want to consider adding from the waiver wire. By the way, we classify exempt additions as players who are in 50% or fewer leagues. Just a heads up, six teams are on a bye this week, so don’t forget to check the matchups.
Week 8 bye teams: Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Atlanta Falcons D/ST (9.6%)
The Falcons’ defense has been pretty average for the first month and a half of the season, and their performance in Sunday night’s 20-10 loss to San Francisco was no exception. They didn’t exactly shine, but they did manage to disrupt the game with two passes defended, one sack, and an interception—though that was partly due to the offense’s struggles in the second half.
Looking ahead, the Falcons’ defense might be an interesting pick for Week 8. They’re up against a Dolphins team that’s struggling. No major changes on their end, and Tua Tagovailoa seems to be having issues, evidenced by his rough outing in a 31-6 loss to the Browns, where he was sacked four times and threw three interceptions, one of which was anticipated by safety Ronnie Hickman. This feels like an opportunity for the Falcons to add to their stats.
Chicago Bears D/ST (35.9%)
The Bears’ defense has been a strong fantasy option, and they showed that off in their 26-13 victory against the Saints. They really pressured Spencer Rattler, scoring four sacks, three interceptions, and a fumble recovery, earning a season-high of 13 fantasy points. This marks their fourth game this year where they’ve surpassed 10 fantasy points, and they’re catching eyes as one of the more formidable defenses in the league.
However, facing the Ravens might pose a challenge, especially with Lamar Jackson’s hamstring issue. Some may hesitate to start a defense against a two-time MVP, but I’m not entirely sure his return alone can turn things around for Baltimore. Given he hasn’t played in a month, there’s a chance of some rust, and the Ravens have been known to fumble the ball now and then. Chicago’s defense could really make a statement; I think it’s a risk worth taking.
Cincinnati Bengals D/ST (1.7%)
To keep it brief, the Bengals’ defense has not been impressive, that’s clear. Yet, they’ll be up against the Jets. It’s curious how the Jets are still the only undefeated team left, right? With the uncertainty between Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor at quarterback, it’s worth considering Cincinnati for this matchup as well.
