The names and numbers are changing and there are fantasy managers who are hitting the panic button with an 0-3 start. They are searching for trades and scouring the free agent market to find this week’s diamond in the rough, while trying to avoid the gigantic bust. Let’s take a look at some players to sneakily add and others to avoid like the current pandemic we are in.
Chicago Bears – Nick Foles
Trubisky out, Foles in. The move came very suddenly during the Week 3 matchup against the Falcons after a pass thrown by Trubisky was intercepted by Atlanta. Foles entered the game and lead the Bears to three touchdowns to complete the comeback victory. In all actuality, Foles threw five touchdowns, but one was dropped in the end zone and the other was controversially overturned. Christmas has come early in Chicago, so stash Saint Nick on your bench if you are looking for a QB and dumb Trubisky.
New England Patriots – Damiere Byrd
Byrd is an interesting piece of the Patriot offense. They are very run heavy, but Byrd is constantly on the field. He’s a bit of a hit or miss, so proceed with caution and only if you are searching for receiver depth. Damiere caught all three targets for 27 yards last Sunday but hauled in six targets for 72 yards the week before. Use Byrd as a streaming option against iffy pass defenses that Coach Belichick looks to expose.
San Francisco 49ers – Jeff Wilson Jr.
The 49ers are in trouble with injuries all around, but specifically at the running back position. Tevin Coleman and Raheem Mostert are both out and Jerick McKinnon came out of last Sunday’s game with a rib injury. Wilson may wind up getting the start against a Philly team coming off a tie with the Bengals. Keep an eye on and stash Wilson as he could figure into the game plan on a consistent basis over the next couple weeks at the least. I am buying up all the stock I can.
New York Giants – Dion Lewis
Dion Lewis has had two weeks worth of chances to show he can handle backfield duties for the Giants. He did rush for a touchdown in Week 2, but last week he saw only one reception for 10 yards. New kid on the block, Devonta Freeman, and Giants veteran, Wayne Gallman, will likely take over rushing duties. This leaves Lewis the pass-catching role, but even that is limited. Sell the stock and cut your losses.
New York Giants – Darius Slayton
Darius Slayton owners are scratching their heads and wondering where their incredible receiver went. After posting six catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1, Slayton has caught six passes for 86 yards. Granted he was hurt halfway through Week 2, but the Giants played from behind almost the entire game in Week 3. He could give another big performance, but trade him away and let someone else worry about when the next big week for Slayton will be.
Cincinnati Bengals – AJ Green
Do yourself a favor and fade any Bengals receiver not named Tyler Boyd. Green over the last two weeks has brought in 8 catches for 65 yards. These are not AJ Green numbers and people need to accept the fact that the AJ Green we all saw pre-injuries will not return. The name should carry some clout in trades, but I would not expect any miraculous performances.
