Cut or Keep: Is Gibson No Longer Fantasy Relevant?
In last week’s article, I went 1-for-2 in the keep portion based on last week’s performances. Jaxon Smith-Njiba had a good game in DK Metcalf’s absence, while Michael Wilson had a dud game.
Let’s look at this week’s players to keep and those who should be on the chopping block.
Keep
Embed from Getty ImagesMichael Mayer
The rookie only had two catches for 13 yards on four targets, but there were some positive takeaways. According to PFF, Mayer played 81 percent of Las Vegas’ offensive snaps in Week 6 against New England. He replaced Austin Hooper as the primary tight end in 11 personnel in Week 6.
After a five-catch for 75-yard performance in Week 6, the vast majority of Las Vegas’ targets went to outside wide receivers in Week 7.
Mayer should be stashed for now. The playing time is there. He just needs the targets.
Jaleel McLaughlin, RB (DEN)
In Week 7, Javonte Williams received three times the carries and played more than three times as many snaps as McLaughlin
Williams averaged 5 yards per carry, but McLaughlin gained 45 yards on five carries. The Broncos also sprinkled in Samaje Perine during the two-minute drill.
At times, McLaughlin has shown he is the most explosive running back on the team right now. His talent may carve out a bigger role in the Denver offense, which is desperate for big plays.
Cut
Embed from Getty ImagesHunter Henry, TE (NE)
Henry’s playing time has decreased each of the last several games as other tight ends have gotten more involved in the New England offense.
Henry only played in 10 of a possible 22 snaps in 12 personnel, while Mike Gesicki and Pharaoh Brown were the primary tight ends in that personnel group, according to PFF.
Henry caught two of his three targets for 27 yards. He had only caught one pass for seven yards in the previous two games.
He could bounce back, but it is certainly trending away from how he started the season as one of the top fantasy options at TE.
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Antonio Gibson, RB (WAS)
Most people who own Gibson in 12-team leagues or smaller have probably already dropped him. If you haven’t, it’s time.
In Week 7, Gibson had the third-most carries among Commanders running backs. He had two carries for seven yards. Starter Brian Robinson led the team, which wasn’t a shock, but rookie Chris Rodriguez carried seven times
Gibson hasn’t run for over 20 yards in a game this season, and the receiving work hasn’t been there consistently for him, either. He doesn’t have a Top 24 finish at RB in any week this season.
With the way things are shaking out, a Brian Robinson injury would only mean Gibson shared with Rodriguez. It may be time for Gibson to be dropped in deeper leagues as well.
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