Welcome to Week 8 Exemption Wire Watch!
The weekend NFL games are almost set, and we’re nearing the midpoint of the 2025 regular season. There weren’t many breakout performances from lesser-known running backs last weekend, but that doesn’t mean you should skip checking the waiver wire for potential finds this week.
Here are some Week 7 players worth considering before the Week 8 matchups. As always, exempt additions are those registered in up to 60% of leagues. Also, keep in mind that six teams are on bye this week, so you might need to evaluate your roster closely.
Week 8 bye teams: Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Kyle Monangai, RB, Chicago Bears (7.4%)
The Bears pulled off a victory against the Saints on Sunday, winning 26-12, thanks to D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai. Monangai, a rookie, had the best performance of his career so far, rushing for 81 yards on 13 carries and scoring a touchdown, along with a few receptions.
This was his first game with double-digit touches, and it might lead to a bigger role in Chicago’s offense moving forward, especially if Caleb Williams continues to struggle like he did on Sunday. It’s worth noting the growth in the tailback position.
Week 8 matchups: @Baltimore Ravens, 1pm ET.
Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, New York Giants (41.9%)
The Giants faced a heartbreaking 33-32 loss to the Broncos, with a significant collapse in the fourth quarter. Nevertheless, Tracy made his presence felt. The second-year player recorded nine carries for 46 yards and scored a touchdown in the third quarter, helping his team to a 19-0 lead at one point.
Currently, he’s a backup to Cam Skatebo, but his performance indicated that he can still be productive. It might be wise to consider adding him.
Week 8 matchups: @Philadelphia Eagles, 1pm ET.
Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (32.9%)
Hunt had a quiet game, tallying just four carries for 18 yards in the Chiefs’ 31-0 win over the Raiders. Although he briefly left the game, he came back, but the Chiefs didn’t need him much for the remainder of the match. With key offensive players returning, the Chiefs are beginning to regain their strength, so picking up Hunt could be a good move, as you never know when you might need him again.
Week 8 matchups: vs. Washington Commanders, 8:15pm ET (Monday night)
Bam Knight, RB, Arizona Cardinals (23.0%)
The Cardinals lost to the Packers 27-23, marking their fifth consecutive defeat, but Knight’s performance might help stabilize their backfield a bit. As a former fourth-string runner, he had double-digit carries for the second week in a row, accumulating 14 rushing attempts for 57 yards along with three targets through the air.
It will be interesting to see how Arizona’s running back situation evolves after their bye week, but for now, Knight is certainly one to watch if you’re in need of depth.
