The Week That Was Football: The Injuries From Week 14
Big name injuries highlight this week’s Football Week That Was.
For 2014, The Week that Was: NFL will focus on injuries and their effects.
Andre Ellington: Andre Ellington is done for the year with a whole variety of injuries. Tough break for his fantasy owners but you knew that he was unlikely to be able to last the entire year as a feature back when you drafted him in August. When added to Carson Palmer’s injury, there is not a lot of reason for optimism in Arizona. To make matters worse, the Cardinals face off against the very tough Rams D next week. If you are desperate for an RB in a deep league, take a look at Kerwynn Williams. He came out of nowhere to lead the team with 19 carries and 100 rushing yards and made both Marion Grice and Stepfan Taylor afterthoughts. That said, those in daily leagues should stay far away as it is not hard to see the Rams shutting down the Cards on a short week.
Justin Forsett: The rumors of Justin Forsett’s demise were greatly exaggerated. Yes, he carried the ball only 13 times but he tallied 71 rushing yards, caught two passes and found the end zone on Sunday. If you own Forsett, you are starting him with confidence. There was a lot of chatter about Forsett missing practice, injuries, etc. However, you have to play your number 1 back and for many Forsett is just that. He plays, you play him. Done and done. Oh, and he plays the Jaguars next week so ca-ching!
Zach Mettenberger: Zach Mettenberger hurt his shoulder again Sunday. After suffering such injuries two weeks in a row, it is likely the Zach attack will be grounded until 2015. There is simply no reason for the Titans to take any risks with him. Jake Locker takes over as the QB. Hmmm, now what? Well, the bad news is that the Titans are an offensive mess. The good news is that they get the Jets and the Jags over the next two weeks. So, if you are in a very deep league or you are just desperate for points, Jake Locker, Nate Washington and Delanie Walker should be on your radar.
Jordan Cameron: This column is not all bad news. After what has been a lost season, Jordan Cameron re-emerged Sunday. Did he have a huge game? No. Did he show some signs of life? Yes. Cameron snared four passes on five targets for 41 yards on Sunday. Watch this situation carefully. Question 1 – did Cameron emerge healthy? It seems so. Question 2 – who will be the QB? If Johnny Football, you could easily see a bunch of short throws to the TE. Question 3 – are the Browns really down on the conditioning and route running of Josh Gordon? If so, more for Cameron. With Jimmy Graham suddenly disappearing and various TE injuries, Cameron could get very interesting these next couple of weeks.
Rashad Jennings: Rashad Jennings suited up but played sparingly Sunday after he suffered an ankle injury last Sunday. Honestly, I am not sure what to make of this. The Giants blew out the Titans in a game that was never close. Would Jennings have played more had the game been contested? I just do not know. Check back at fantasyalarm.com often during the week as whoever starts at RB for the Giants in week 15 against the hapless Washington football franchise will be a must start.
Julius Thomas: Julius Thomas dressed but did not play on Sunday. Ugh, the ultimate fantasy football nightmare unfolded for many a fantasy owner in their fantasy football playoffs. Perhaps dressing means he is more likely to get real time next week in San Diego but it is too early to tell. What we do know is that Jacob Tamme will not be targeted even if Thomas is a no go. On the bright side, there was a fantasy football Wes Welker sighting as the former Patriot came out of nowhere to snare 6 balls for 82 yards on Sunday. Unless you are really desperate, you will not fall for this. Buyer beware.
Final Thought: Injury news changes quickly so make sure to check back right here at fantasyalarm.com for all the news you need to know.