Week 8 Exemption Wire Watch
As we gear up for the weekend NFL games, it’s remarkable how quickly we’re nearing the halfway mark of the 2025 regular season. Seems like every week, a new tight end grabs attention, and last weekend was no exception.
Looking ahead to Week 8, here are some standout performers from Week 7 that you might want to consider picking up from the waiver wire. Just a heads-up: exempt additions refer to players registered in up to 60% of leagues. Also, keep in mind that six teams are on bye this week, so you’ll need to manage your roster carefully.
Week 8 bye teams: Arizona Cardinals, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks
Orondo Gadsden II, TE, Los Angeles Chargers (5.6%)
Rookie performances are still on the rise, and Gadsden had a standout game in the Chargers’ 38-24 defeat against the Colts. The fifth-round pick from Syracuse made quite an impact at SoFi Stadium, racking up 164 yards on seven catches and scoring his first career touchdown. He finished as the top fantasy tight end in half-PPR scoring for the week.
After a slow start this season, Gadsden has seen a surge in his targets recently, totaling 17 in the past two weeks. He’s quickly becoming one of Justin Herbert’s key targets, joining the ranks of Quentin Johnston and Keenan Allen. If you’re looking to add depth, now might be the time to place a waiver bid on him.
Week 8 matchups: vs. Minnesota Vikings, 8:15 p.m. ET (Thursday night)
Theo Johnson, TE, New York Giants (14.2%)
Johnson’s contributions have been vital for the Giants, especially during their close 33-32 loss to the Broncos. He tallied three catches for 66 yards and a touchdown in the fourth quarter, bringing him 14.1 fantasy points this week.
The second-year tight end has found the end zone four times over the past month and is part of a youthful core in New York’s offense. Notably, he remains widely available in many leagues, so it might be wise to scoop him up if possible.
Week 8 matchups: @ Philadelphia Eagles, 1 p.m. ET.
Pat Freiermuth, TE, Pittsburgh Steelers (6.9%)
You might be wondering about Pat Freiermuth—he’s definitely been a bit quiet this season. However, he showcased his skills in last Thursday’s game, playing a significant role in the Steelers’ 33-31 loss to the Bengals. He recorded five catches for 111 yards and two touchdowns, including one 68-yard strike that briefly gave the Steelers a lead in the fourth quarter.
Until recently, Freiermuth had been sharing snaps with Jonnu Smith, which hasn’t helped either player’s value. Yet, as connections with quarterback Aaron Rodgers strengthen, Freiermuth could prove to be a solid pickup for those in need of a tight end.
Week 8 matchups: vs. Green Bay Packers, 8:20 p.m. ET
Noah Fant, TE, Cincinnati Bengals (2.6%)
In the Bengals’ game against the Steelers, Fant caught four passes for 44 yards and found the end zone in the fourth quarter, helping secure a win for Cincinnati. He may have been overlooked during the team’s losing streak, but with Joe Flacco potentially rejuvenating the offense, Fant’s value could spike. Expect to hear more about him in the coming days.
Week 8 matchups: vs. New York Jets, 1 p.m. ET
