RotoExperts.com delivers all the important player news with in-depth fantasy analysis for Week 8.
Quarterbacks
» Brett Favre (hip) is probable and will start against his former team, the Packers. Fantasy owners should not hesitate to use him as he looks to exact some revenge at Lambeau Field.
» Joe Flacco (ankle) is probable and will start against the Broncos. Fantasy players should not use his status as a determining factor in their lineup decisions.
» Matt Hasselbeck (rib) is expected to start. He is a gamble as a fantasy option, as the Seahawks may sputter offensively at Dallas.
» Aaron Rodgers (foot) is probable and is a lock to start against the Vikings. He is a strong starting choice in Week 8.
» Matthew Stafford (knee) looks like a game-time decision in this week's matchup against the Rams. He is not a factor in most fantasy leagues right now.
Running backs
» **Marion Barber** (quadriceps, thumb) continues to play through his injuries but might not produce up to his usual levels. Barber is better used as a flex player than a No. 2 fantasy back while the issues appear to linger.
» Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle/foot) is listed probable and will face the Eagles. He has been able to work through the problem, but according to published reports, he is risking a season-ending injury by continuing to play. Only use Bradshaw if your other running back choices are very limited.
» **Donald Brown** (shoulder) is not expected to play against the 49ers. RB Joseph Addai will see more reps this week, and RB Mike Hart will likely be next in line for carries.
» Jonathan Stewart (heel) is expected to play this week but should only be used as a flex player if your other options are limited. Stewart faces a tough Arizona run defense on the road.
» Brian Westbrook (concussion) was not able to practice all week and is listed as questionable for Week 8. Keep Westbrook reserved and expect LeSean McCoy to see the bulk of the carries against the Giants.
Wide receivers
» Donnie Avery (shoulder) is listed as probable and will start for the Rams. He is a quality starting choice against the Lions this week.
» Bernard Berrian (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Week 8. He's been a disappointment and does not deserve strong fantasy consideration even when healthy.
» Anquan Boldin (hip) is questionable but expected to play against the Panthers. His owners run the risk of Boldin being silent for stretches or being pulled out of a game at any point, so do not use him over players of similar or close value.
» Steve Breaston (knee) was limited in practices this week but is still expected to play against the Panthers. He's safe to use him if you need a bye-week option at the wide receiver position.
» Jerricho Cotchery (hamstring) is questionable to face the Dolphins, but reports indicate he'll be active. Keep him benched if you have a healthier alternative, since he could be limited or largely ineffective.
» DeSean Jackson (ankle) is probable. There is no apparent reason to be concerned about his availability.
» Percy Harvin (illness) is questionable, but he should be available and should be used as a bye week filler if you need help at WR.
» **Andre Johnson** (lung contusion) is listed as probable and will start against the Bills. He's a must-start wideout in all leagues.
» Calvin Johnson (knee) could be a game-time decision this week against the Rams. If he's unable to play, WRs Bryant Johnson and Dennis Northcutt would see an uptick in value based on the favorable matchup.
» Mario Manningham (shoulder) is listed questionable and could be a game-time decision for Week 8, so he's a real risk in fantasy leagues. Owners who have WR Hakeem Nicks should expect him to play a prominent role against the Eagles.
» Muhsin Muhammad (knee) is not expected to play against the Cardinals. He has minimal fantasy value and there are no Carolina wideouts who can step forward and be useful in his place.
» Nate Washington (quadriceps) is listed as probable and will face the Jaguars. With Vince Young starting at quarterback, Washington's fantasy prospects are not appealing this week.
» Reggie Wayne (groin) was able to return to practice on Friday and is expected to start against the 49ers. Considering he was able to participate in workouts, fantasy leaguers should be ready to use him in Week 8.
Tight ends
» Jermichael Finley (knee) is listed as doubtful and is unlikely to face the Vikings. TE Donald Lee becomes the top option at the position for Green Bay, but he is strictly a bye-week option.
» Jeremy Shockey (shoulder) was limited in practices this week, but he has been able to play through the problem. Keep him in your lineup.
Scott Engel is Managing Director and Senior NFL Editor at www.rotoexperts.com. You can hire him as your personal fantasy advisor for the rest of the season. **Email Scott** for more information.
