Week 8 Exemption Wire Watch
The NFL weekend games are almost ready, and we’re nearing the midway point of the 2025 regular season. This year, there are quite a few second-string wide receivers showing up big in fantasy matchups, and we witnessed that trend over the weekend once more.
As we look ahead to Week 8, here are some standout performers from Week 7 that you might want to consider adding from the waiver wire. Just a heads-up—exempt additions are players who are in 60% or fewer leagues. Also, keep in mind that six teams are on bye this week, so it’s worth checking your roster carefully.
Week 8 bye weeks: Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Wan Dale Robinson, WR, New York Giants (53.7%)
The Giants faced a tough loss against Denver on Sunday, but Robinson made his presence felt. He led the team with six catches on 12 targets, tallying 95 yards—close to hitting that 100-yard mark for the second time this season.
Since Malik Nabors’ injury last month, Robinson has emerged as the top receiving option for the Giants, and his connection with Jackson Dart seems to get better each week. He’s now ranked 6th in yards after catch (YAC), and at just over 60% ownership, he may be a solid waiver option for many fantasy players.
Week 8 matchups: @ Philadelphia Eagles, 1 p.m. ET.
Xavier Leggett, WR, Carolina Panthers (14.2%)
Wait, did the Panthers just win three games in a row? And are they over .500 in late October? After pulling off a win against the Jets, Leggett shone as a key offensive player. The second-year receiver recorded the best game of his career so far, snagging 9 of 11 targets for 92 yards and a touchdown.
This marks just the second time he’s had double-digit targets, leaving us to wonder if this is a fluke or a sign that he might be becoming a vital part of the offense. Either way, he should be available on waiver wires if you’re interested.
Week 8 matchups: vs. Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m. ET
Tez Johnson, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (17.9%)
The Buccaneers had a rough night losing 24-9 to Detroit, but Johnson is stepping up as a reliable rookie receiver. After scoring a 45-yard TD against the 49ers last week, he caught four passes for 58 yards, scoring the only TD for the team in this game.
With Mike Evans now injured—suffering from both a broken collarbone and a concussion—Johnson is set to play a more significant role on the team moving forward.
Week 8 matchups: @ New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m. ET.
Kimea Dike, WR, Tennessee Titans (1.4%)
During the Titans’ 31-13 loss to the Patriots, the first half showed some promise of what a functional offense could be with Cam Ward at the helm. Dike snagged a pass for a 38-yard touchdown in the first quarter, finishing with four catches for 70 yards.
Interim head coach Mike McCoy mentioned that the staff would try to simplify things for Ward, which might create opportunities for rookies like Dike. If he’s available in your league, he’s worth considering.
Week 8 matchups: vs. Buffalo Bills, 1 p.m. ET
