As the NFL heads into Week 8, several intriguing storylines are emerging. The Indianapolis Colts, amid a 2-5 start and a looming trade deadline, could begin managing star running back Jonathan Taylor's workload. Taylor has rushed for 587 yards and eight touchdowns through seven games in 2026, but with trade rumors swirling, the Colts may increase snaps for backup Seth McGowan. In Week 7, Taylor played a season-low 67.2% of offensive snaps, while McGowan saw his highest snap rate at 32.8%.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson returns from a three-game absence due to an ankle injury to face the Buffalo Bills. Before the injury, Jackson was posting career-high numbers: a 70.8% completion rate, 10.1 yards per attempt, and a 119.6 passer rating. The Bills' defense enters Week 8 allowing 386.8 total yards per game (second-most in the NFL) and 28.5 points per game (third-most), setting up a favorable matchup for Jackson's return.
Minnesota Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson could exploit a Detroit Lions defense that has allowed the most receptions (56) and receiving yards (602) to tight ends this season, along with a league-high 10 touchdown receptions to the position. Hockenson leads the Vikings with six red-zone targets and two touchdowns.
Washington Commanders rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams may see an expanded role after Terry McLaurin's season-ending injury. Williams led the receiver room with 34 routes run in Week 6 after McLaurin exited, and the bye week provided extra preparation. The Philadelphia Eagles' defense is allowing 239.9 passing yards per game, the seventh-highest in the league.
In the NFC South, the Atlanta Falcons could move into first place with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and a Green Bay Packers victory over the Carolina Panthers. The Falcons' defense ranks fourth in fewest rushing yards allowed per game and fourth in pressure rate, while the Buccaneers are 0-4 at home this season.
