Fantasy Doctor is in: Dr. Selene Parekh talks Fantasy Football Injuries
Dr. Selene Parekh is a surgeon at Duke University and he stops in all the time to give our readers an update on the players around the NFL and their injuries. Follow him on Twitter @seleneparekhmd
Big Ben might be bounced from field with foot injury
What happened: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger suffered a mid-foot sprain during Sunday’s game vs. the Raiders. Although mild, these injuries typically take 2-to-4 weeks to heal.
Player/team outlook: The initial reports had Roethlisberger missing a few weeks, but he’s a notoriously fast healer and there’s a slim chance he could play as early as Sunday. Pittsburgh’s offense takes on an entirely different look when he’s not on the field.
Fantasy recommendation: Don’t count on Roethlisberger playing this weekend, as Landry Jones should get the start. Possible pickups could include the Redskins’ Kirk Cousins, who faces a weak Saints defense.
Pats’ Lewis latest to deal with ACL
What happened: Patriots running back Dion Lewis tore his ACL during Week 9 action. He’ll miss the rest of the season and will need surgery and a lengthy rehab.
Player/team outlook: Lewis has vowed to return to the level he played at this season as he became one of fantasy football’s most pleasant surprises. Losing Lewis isn’t great, but Tom Brady and the Patriots never seem to struggle no matter who is on the field.
Fantasy recommendation: It’s a dice roll to pick up anyone on New England expecting Lewis’ numbers, but the likely suspects there would be James White and Brandon Bolden. Otherwise you’re looking for magic in a bottle and could find it with the Raiders’ Taiwan Jones, who only should be started if you have no one else.
More knee issues: Forte iffy for Week 10 play
What happened: Bears running back Matt Forte wasn’t able to play in Monday night’s game against the Chargers due to a right knee injury. His status for this week is currently up in the air.
Player/team outlook: Forte is an all-purpose star and the Bears need his production. However, Chicago appears to have caught a huge break by drafting Jeremy Langford this year as he gave a Forte-like performance on Monday with more than 140 total yards and a score.
Fantasy recommendation: Forte’s availability might not be known until game time and you have to err on the side that he won’t go this weekend. If for some reason Langford is still available, pick him up before you finish reading this sentence. Otherwise, check the waiver wire for possible spot starters in Forte’s absence.
Kuechly hopes to get over ankle problem
What happened: Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly injured his ankle during Sunday’s game against the Packers. He’s expected to return this weekend, but his situation is worth monitoring.
Player/team outlook: Kuechly is an individual defensive player (IDP) star in fantasy football and simply makes Carolina a better unit when he’s able to go. The Panthers do have a little flexibility with their lead in the NFC, but that’s not a good enough reason for Kuechly to sit out if he can play.
Fantasy recommendation: The assumption is Kuechly is OK to start in Week 10, but just in case have the likes of the Texans’ Brian Cushing and the Lions’ Stephen Tulloch on speed dial if you need a late pickup.
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