Sep 28, 2025; Dublin, Ireland; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison (3) runs for a gain during the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL International Series game at Croke Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Week 8 is shaping up to be a critical one for fantasy managers trying to make their playoff push, and the wide receiver landscape has plenty of movement. Injuries, quarterback changes, and defensive mismatches are shaking up start and sit decisions. After reviewing data from reliable sources, this week’s recommendations balance usage trends, defensive rankings, and reliable volume projections that could decide close matchups.

Start ‘Em:

Jordan Addison, Minnesota Vikings - Is another strong start this week. In the three games he has played, Addison has averaged 15 fantasy points per game per ESPN’s official fantasy stats. The Vikings face the Chargers on Monday night, setting the stage for a potential shootout. Addison’s chemistry with his quarterback and his ability to win on intermediate routes make him a reliable PPR producer. His route participation rate and target consistency suggest another solid outing against a defense that has allowed over 240 passing yards per game.

Ja’Marr Chase, Cincinnati Bengals - Is finally back to elite form now that Joe Flacco is under center. According to ESPN tracking, Chase has earned a massive 41 percent target share with Flacco throwing, one of the highest in the league during that span. The Bengals face the New York Jets this week, a matchup that looks tougher on paper, but Flacco’s quick reads and Chase’s route precision have reignited this offense. After struggling when Joe Burrow went down, Chase is once again a target monster and a must-start WR1 option in all formats. Expect double-digit receptions and red-zone looks as Flacco continues to lean heavily on him.

Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs - Rounds out the list of starts. Back from suspension and fully involved again, Rice faces the Washington Commanders, who have struggled badly in coverage this season. NFL.com shows the team is allowing the second-most yards per game to opposing wideouts. When Rice is on the field, Mahomes is getting him the ball.

Sit ‘Em:

Jaylen Waddle, Miami Dolphins - Should stay on the bench this week against the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons rank first in pass defense, holding opposing wideouts to fewer than 140 receiving yards per game.

Rookie Tet McMillan, Carolina Panthers - Is also better left on the bench against the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo’s secondary ranks top three in limiting explosive plays, and Bryce Young has struggled under pressure, which caps McMillan’s upside.

DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers - Faces the Packers’ secondary, one of the most physical units in the NFC. Green Bay corners have limited opposing WR1s to just 11 fantasy points per game, and Metcalf’s inconsistent targets make him a risky play.

In a week filled with must-win matchups, volume and quarterback chemistry rule fantasy decisions. Chase, Addison, and Rice headline reliable starts, while Waddle, McMillan, and Metcalf are best left waiting for better matchups.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 8: WR Edition

Reporting by Tyler Whitcomb, Touchdown Wire / Touchdown Wire

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