Fantasy owners who invested in Rob Gronkowski have had to deal with teases about his availability since Week 1. Lately, frustration has boiled over, not only in fantasy but also in real life. But the day the Patriots and Gronk owners have waited for has arrived -- the talented tight end has been cleared by his own doctors and is ready to suit up in Week 7 against the Jets.
In some cases, we would preach patience. But there is no need for caution here, as owners have waited long enough. Gronkowski should be put in your lineup right away for Sunday’s game. He’s a top tight end and arguably the top tight end this week.
There is a side bar to all of this, as well, namely Kenbrell Thompkins and Aaron Dobson. Both figure to see a slightly reduced role going forward as Gronk takes some of their targets. Thompkins especially could be in line for a hit -- he’s been touchdown heavy this season and Gronkowski figures to steal some red-zone looks. Downgrade both, though don’t give up on either -- they’re still rookies with upside.
One other cautionary note: Gronkowski’s longer-than-expected absence, along with Roddy White and Steven Jackson’s injuries, provides a teaching moment for all fantasy owners. Never assume that just because a team downplays an injury that everything is fine. It may be wishful thinking. It may be a deliberate attempt to throw off their opposition. Or it may just be impossible to know for sure. But whatever the reason, any injury to your star player needs to be taken seriously.
Jimmy Graham owners should heed that warning. The Saints have been relatively quiet on his injury and leaks have suggested he’ll be ready for Week 8. Don’t assume that will be the case. Owners had to grab a backup this week anyway because of the Saints bye, but don’t be in a rush to drop your guy when Tuesday rolls around. You just may need him again in Week 8.
More Fantasy Source: Week 7 Podcast | Broncos at Colts matchup | Ray Rice's struggles
Josh finally freed in tasty matchup
That didn’t take long. A couple of weeks after being signed, Josh Freeman has been named the starting quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, displacing Matt Cassel and Christian Ponder.
Freeman’s season in Tampa was an unmitigated disaster, so it’s arguable how much of an upgrade he’ll provide. However, there’s no denying his physical tools, which outclass both Cassel's and Ponder’s. Since the Vikings are a run-first offense, Freeman’s strong arm could help open things up for Adrian Peterson and lead to big plays for Greg Jennings and potentially Cordarrelle Patterson down the road.
His knowledge of the playbook has to be limited, but it may not matter against a New York Giants defense this week that has not stopped anyone all season. Freeman is certainly a gamble, but there is definitely a big pay off. If you need a No. 2 quarterback this week, he’s worth a pick up.
More Fantasy Football: DraftStreet Week 7 tips | Play DraftStreet for a free chance at $1,000 in prizes
New blood, old name, same value
Matt Schaub is out for Week 7. But instead of turning to backup T.J. Yates, the Texans will go with Case Keenum, the undrafted second-year player from the University of Houston. While a prolific passer in college, Keenum’s arm strength is reportedly not NFL caliber. We might take a chance on him if the matchup was good, but the Chiefs defense has been one of the league’s best this season. Keenum is a non-factor in fantasy this week. … The Giants signed Peyton Hillis earlier this week after injuries left them with just Brandon Jacobs and Michael Cox as their running backs. With that said, you can forget about Hillis having real value. He’ll be behind Jacobs this week and Andre Brown figures to return by Week 10. Hillis’ time on the Giants roster may be short, which means he shouldn’t spend a moment on yours.