Introduction
Welcome back to our weekly roundup of potential fantasy football fades! This article will help you identify which players to avoid as we enter Week 8 of the 2026 season. I'm here to provide insights into various players who may fall short of expectations, assisting you in making informed lineup decisions.
Remember, labeling a player as a 'fade' doesn’t necessarily mean you should bench them outright. Your choices should depend on your roster and waiver wire options. Below, I have detailed important considerations for each player listed.
Bo Nix, QB, Broncos vs. Chiefs
Bo Nix's recent performance may attract some fantasy managers looking for a streaming quarterback this week. However, it's wise to reconsider.
Nix recently scored a significant portion of his points from an unlikely 62-yard rushing touchdown, which is unlikely to be replicated. His passing stats show weaknesses: completing barely over half his attempts, managing just 222 yards, and only securing one touchdown. In prior weeks, he struggled to surpass 14 fantasy points, indicating inconsistency.
While Arizona is known for being weak against quarterbacks, Kansas City presents a much tougher challenge, allowing only 13.03 points per game to the position. Nix has historically found it difficult to perform against the Chiefs, evidenced by his 5.44-point output earlier this season. With expectations of a low-scoring defensive battle, Nix is not the answer for your lineup.
What to Do: Nix should be avoided as a starting QB unless you're in a deep league and have no alternatives.
J.K. Dobbins, RB, Broncos vs. Chiefs
You might be tempted to start J.K. Dobbins, particularly since he has found the end zone in recent weeks. However, the reality is less promising.
Dobbins has averaged only 8.4 fantasy points over the last five games, struggling to convert opportunities into meaningful production. Furthermore, with rookie Jonah Coleman healthy, his snap count has dramatically decreased. Dobbins is primarily a backup now, dependent on finding the end zone to be remotely relevant.
To complicate matters, Kansas City’s defense has been stout against the run, yielding the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game. Dobbins clearly has limited upside this week.
What to Do: Dobbins should not be in your starting lineup, except in extremely deep leagues where options are few.
TreVeyon Henderson, RB, Patriots at Dolphins
If you invested in TreVeyon Henderson recently, you might have been hoping for a breakout against Miami. However, current stats suggest otherwise.
Henderson has barely made an impact over the last five weeks, averaging a mere 3.5 fantasy points per game. Despite the favorable matchup, he trails behind backup Corey Kiner in both touches and production. It's clear that Henderson lacks a substantial role in the Patriots offense, leading to his diminished value.
What to Do: Henderson should be benched this week, and possibly considered for release if the pattern continues.
Rome Odunze, WR, Bears at Seahawks
Bears receiver Rome Odunze was expected to contribute significantly, yet he has disappointed so far this season.
Odunze has shown limited production, averaging only 3.4 receptions per game and failing to find the end zone. His competition within the offense, along with a significant drop in target share, makes him a risky play, especially against Seattle's tough defense that has limited wide receivers effectively this year.
What to Do: Odunze should be considered a FLEX option at best, and you should not rely on him for consistent points this week.
Ladd McConkey, WR, Chargers at Rams
Ladd McConkey's season has been marred by injuries and underwhelming offensive production for the Chargers.
After a strong start, McConkey's target share has dwindled to unacceptable levels. With the Chargers struggling offensively and facing a solid Rams secondary, it’s tough to trust him as a reliable option this week.
What to Do: While you might consider him in a pinch, McConkey is best avoided in your lineup for this matchup.
Jake Ferguson, TE, Cowboys vs. Cardinals
This week could present challenges for tight ends, making Jake Ferguson a speculative candidate for starting positions.
Despite scoring touchdowns earlier in the season, his recent performances have been unimpressive, with few receptions and minimal yardage. Against a Cardinals team, Ferguson lacks upside, rendering him a risky play this week.
What to Do: Look for other tight-end options. Ferguson should not be in anyone’s starting lineup this weekend.