Bryan Armetta picks his three favorite fantasy football DFS value plays for all ten games on Week 8’s featured slate.
We’re nearing the halfway point of the 2025 NFL regular season. Unsurprisingly, it’s also one of the more chaotic Sundays on the calendar for fantasy football managers. Between bye weeks and major injuries, reliable starters are in high demand. That makes it imperative to find under the radar players in season-long and DFS formats.
Figuring out which low-cost options to target is easier said than done. Here are three value plays to consider in all DFS contests before Week 8’s ten-game featured slate.
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RB Justice Hill, Baltimore Ravens vs. CHI ($4,500)
By now, you’re probably aware that Lamar Jackson (hamstring) won’t play this weekend. The two-time MVP’s absence has been detrimental to almost all of Baltimore’s offensive weapons. That may not be the case for backup running back Justice Hill. Playing behind All-Pro Derrick Henry ($6,000), there aren’t many touches to be had. The receiving back does most of his damage in obvious passing situations. That usually requires the Ravens to be trailing by multiple scores.
In three of his previous four games, Hill has logged at least 45% of all snaps on offense. During that time, the 27-year-old has recorded eighteen receptions and two touchdowns. With QB2 Tyler Huntley ($4,300) suiting up, Baltimore faces an uphill battle. There’s a good chance this week’s opponents, the Bears, take a big lead. It’s worth noting that Chicago has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Don’t be shocked if Hill racks up points during the second half.
WR Troy Franklin, Denver Broncos vs. DAL ($4,200)
It took some time, but Denver’s offense exploded for 33 points during the fourth quarter last week. The comeback win over New York didn’t require much from Troy Franklin. The second-year pro posted a mediocre three-catch, 19-yard performance vs. the Giants. However, he did reach the end zone for his second touchdown. Following a terrific start, it’s fair to wonder if the Oregon alum’s early-season output was fool’s gold.
In spite of his meager yardage total, Franklin saw a team-leading ten targets. The wide receiver was on the field for 62% of the Broncos’ snaps, behind only Courtland Sutton ($6,200). In the right matchup, the 22-year-old still has value. That could be the case this weekend against an atrocious Cowboys secondary. Dallas has surrendered the second-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. At such a low price, Franklin has a clear path to production in what could be a shootout. Denver’s secret weapon is a priority add for most DFS lineups.
TE Mason Taylor, New York Jets at CIN ($3,500)
Tyrod Taylor’s tenure as QB1 has come to an abrupt halt. The veteran has been sidelined with a knee injury. That means Justin Fields ($5,000) is back under center for the Jets. For all his flaws, the veteran quarterback isn’t the worst fantasy options. That’s especially true against a terrible Bengals defense. Granted, star wide receiver Garrett Wilson (knee) won’t take the field for New York. Fellow pass catcher Josh Reynolds (hip) is also sitting out. At this point, it’s anyone’s guess as to who Fields will be throwing to.
Whichever players do suit up for New York on offense could enjoy a productive afternoon. That’s especially true for Mason Taylor. Cincinnati has coughed up the most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season. The rookie was held in check last Sunday, logging three catches for 31 yards. However, the LSU alum has garnered 31 targets over his last five outings. At a thin position, Taylor makes plenty of sense at just $3,500.