Introduction

As the 2025 NFL season approaches its midpoint, fantasy football enthusiasts face a week without star players like Jalen Hurts, Baker Mayfield, DeVonta Smith, and Emeka Egbuka. To navigate these challenges and bolster your fantasy lineup for the upcoming playoffs, it's crucial to identify reliable sleepers and value plays. This article highlights key players widely available in fantasy leagues who have favorable matchups.

Quarterback Sleepers

Aaron Rodgers (Pittsburgh Steelers) - DK DFS Price: $5,800 The Steelers will face the Indianapolis Colts, who lead the league in scoring but rank 29th in pass defense. After struggling in recent games, Rodgers will be looking to exploit the Colts' weaknesses. Historical data shows quarterbacks have thrived against Indianapolis' defense, making Rodgers a solid start.

Sam Darnold (Carolina Panthers) - DK DFS Price: $5,500 Coming off a bye week, Darnold is set to confront the Washington Commanders, whose secondary has been leaky, allowing over 230 passing yards in recent weeks. With a week to prepare, Darnold is poised for a strong performance, particularly with targets like Cooper Kupp likely finding space in the soft coverage.

Running Back Sleepers

Bam Knight (Arizona Cardinals) - DK DFS Price: $4,200 With Michael Carter released, Knight has stepped into a lead role following a decent performance before the bye. He faces a Dallas team that has struggled against the run, making Knight a candidate for a breakout game.

Kareem Hunt (Kansas City Chiefs) - DK DFS Price: $5,000 With Isiah Pacheco nursing an MCL injury, Hunt could be set for increased touches in a high-stakes matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Expect both Hunt and teammate Brashard Smith to fill significant roles, especially with Buffalo's poor run defense.

Wide Receiver Sleepers

Kendrick Bourne (San Francisco 49ers) - DK DFS Price: $4,600 With injuries affecting the 49ers' receiving corps, Bourne could see substantial targets against the Giants' weak pass defense. His connection with Mac Jones can yield big plays this week.

Alec Pierce (Indianapolis Colts) - DK DFS Price: $3,300 As a consistent target and capable of big plays, Pierce is positioned well against the Steelers' vulnerable defense. He's demonstrated strong performance metrics this season, making him a worthy addition.

Tight End Sleepers

Colston Loveland (Chicago Bears) - DK DFS Price: $2,800 With multiple Bears receivers injured, Loveland has a chance to shine against a Bengals defense that struggles against tight ends. His recent uptick in targets makes him a potential breakout candidate.

Ja'Tavion Sanders (Carolina Panthers) - DK DFS Price: $3,400 Should Bryce Young return, Sanders could reclaim a prominent role against a Packers team that allows significant points to tight ends. He has already shown he can capitalize on opportunities this season.

Conclusion

As fantasy managers gear up for Week 8, identifying these sleepers can help solidify your roster during a challenging week without top talents. Lean on these reliable options to boost your chances heading into the playoffs.