Fantasy Football Week 8: Reggie Bush and More Early-Game Stars You Should Add

A player's fantasy football value is a fickle phenomenon. A must-start player one week could become worthy of dropping the next and backups who find their way into the starting lineup can move from fantasy afterthoughts to hot commodities.

Here are three players who played well in Week 8's early games and should be considered by owners.

Jake Ballard, New York Giants

The tight end position is weak, which makes the improving Ballard an intriguing option. The rookie from Ohio State had scored at least eight points in three straight weeks before totaling five against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

Even though he only caught four passes, he had seven targets so his role in the offense isn't getting smaller. Actually, it should continue to expand, especially in the red zone, as Eli Manning becomes more comfortable with him.

Week 9 Projection: Seven fantasy points.

Javon Ringer, Tennessee Titans

Chris Johnson's miserable season continued against the porous Indianapolis Colts run defense on Sunday and it could pave the way to Ringer becoming the starter. At the very least his workload will continue to increase as Johnson's burst hasn't been the same in 2011.

Ringer gained 60 yards on the ground and another 42 through the air, illustrating that he can be a dual-threat option just like Johnson has been in recent seasons. The next six days will be very interesting at Titans headquarters.

Regardless, Ringer should be adding in all leagues.

Week 9 Projection: 10 fantasy points.

Reggie Bush, Miami Dolphins

Daniel Thomas is quickly earning the reputation of a player who cannot stay healthy. And if you spend more time on the trainer's table than the field, you become useless to fantasy owners. His absence opened the door for Reggie Bush to have a breakout performance vs. the Giants.

Bush totaled 120 yards and should remain in the starting lineup even if Thomas declares himself ready for action next week. Nobody has ever denied Bush's talent, but he hasn't proven his agility was enough to survive in the NFL. Perhaps he's finally ready to be an every-down, fantasy-worthy back.

Week 9 Projection: 12 fantasy points.