Fantasy football is getting closer to the playoffs, so we’d like to help you out by providing some advice heading into key weeks. There were a few injuries over the weekend that have led to some recommended pickups. We take a look at those and a few other players below.
Ronnie Hillman, RB, Broncos – Willis McGahee suffered a torn MCL in his right knee and a broken leg during Sunday’s game against the Chargers. He is expected to miss 6-8 weeks, though he is hoping to return in 4-6 weeks. McGahee’s absence means the Broncos running back spot is up for grabs. Hillman, a rookie from San Diego State, is expected to see the greater share of the carries. Hillman had 42 yards on 12 carries, and 16 receiving yards on two catches after McGahee left Sunday’s win over the Chargers. Lance Ball will likely see action at running back as well, and he could be a good pickup as insurance for Hillman.
Bryce Brown, RB, Eagles – Brown could be the beneficiary of starting running back LeSean McCoy suffering a concussion. Brown had five carries for 35 yards on Sunday and would be in line for the bulk of the carries if McCoy can’t play on Monday against the Panthers. He would make for a good spot-start if you’re in need of a back or flex player.
James Starks, RB, Packers – Starks shared carries with Alex Green in a Week 9 win over the Cardinals, and he took over the featured-back role in Week 11. Starks rushed for 74 yards on 25 carries while Green saw no carries. The Packers running back spot has produced limited stats during the season, so I wouldn’t expect a ton out of Starks, but he should be good for some consistent points.
Danario Alexander, WR, Chargers – Alexander has had multiple knee injuries throughout his playing career, but he’s finally putting it all together. The former Rams receiver has found a new home with the Chargers and is fitting in well. He led San Diego with 7 catches for 96 yards and two touchdowns in a loss to the Broncos on Sunday. The week before that, he had five catches for 134 yards and a touchdown. He’s a strong receiving option if you need one.
Chad Henne and Justin Blackmon of the Jaguars may be popular targets on the waiver wire this week, but I wouldn’t jump to grab them. Henne threw for 354 yards and four touchdowns against the Texans, who admitted they hadn’t prepared for him. Blackmon had 7 catches for 236 yards and a touchdown. I wouldn’t expect a repeat of the monster stat line from either of them this season, though if you need a QB, at least Henne has the Titans and Bills the next two weeks — both of which have weak defenses.
