Week 6: Game Time Decisions - Injury Update
WR Jerome Simpson, MIN
The high flying former Bengal has had a less than impressive start to his first year in Minnesota as a 3-game suspension and lower back / foot injuries have limited his production so far. Simpson was inactive against Washington in week 6 but was a full particpant in Wednesday's practiced and pronounced himself 100% ready to go for the week 7 matchup with Arizona. Michael Jenkins filled in admirably in week 6 sinishing with 6 catches for 67 yards and a TD but the 30 year old remains well off the fantasy radar. For now it seems like Simpson will get the start against a solid Cardinal defense that ranks 9th against the pass (216 YPG). A potential matchup with CB Patrick Peterson could limit Simpson's sleeper appeal this week.
TE Martellus Bennett, CHI
Bennett has been a somewhat pleasant surprise for those that selected him late in their drafts as the former Cowboy is averaging 43 YPG with three TDs. In the week 5 blowout win over Cleveland, Bennett suffered a hyper extended knee injury and was only able to complete a limited Thursday practice. Bear Pascoe could get a start, but has just 3 catches for 19 yards and is not on the fantasy radar. The Giants travel to San Fran for an NFC Title game rematch and will find scoring difficult against a 49er defense allowing just 14 PPG.
TE Jermichael Finley, GB
The 5th year TE from Texas has been a disappointment through 5 games as he's averaging 40 YPG and has found the end zone just once. Finley suffered a shoulder injury in the week 5 loss to Indianapolis and has yet to practice this week, leaving his week 6 status in serious jeopardy. The Packers face the stingy Houston defense on Sunday night. The Texans' 4th ranked pass defense is allowing just 190 YPG. Finley owners would be wise to add DJ Williams as a backup plan. The 2nd year TE from Arkansas should get the start if Finley can't go and could be a solid sleeper for those looking for a bye week filler.
TE Aaron Hernandez, NE
The 3rd year TE from Florida was on many breakout lists heading into 2012 but those that reached for him in the early rounds have been forced to resort to backup options since Hernandez suffered a severe ankle sprain in week 2. Hernandez returned to limited Wednesday practice and initial word out of New England is that he's expected to suit up for the week 6 matchup in Seattle. The Seahawks defense is ranked 5th against the pass (192 YPG) and has only yielded 3 passing TDs on the season.
Remember to read all our columns for this week and use our Who To Start Rankings
