DeVonta Smith Out: Week 13 Fantasy Football Impact
The news that DeVonta Smith is out for Week 13 throws a significant wrench into many fantasy football managers' plans. His absence significantly alters the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive dynamic and creates ripple effects across their projected scoring. Let's delve into the fantasy football implications of Smith's absence and explore potential strategies for navigating this unexpected challenge.
Understanding the Impact on the Eagles Offense
DeVonta Smith's speed and route-running ability are crucial to the Eagles' passing game. He's a consistent target for Jalen Hurts, often drawing double coverage, which opens up opportunities for other receivers. With him sidelined, the Eagles' offensive distribution will likely shift. Expect an increased workload for A.J. Brown, who will become the undeniable top target. Dallas Goedert's role as the primary tight end will also likely see a boost in both targets and overall fantasy production.
Key Players to Watch
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A.J. Brown: Brown is the clear beneficiary of Smith's absence. He's already a top fantasy receiver, and his target share should significantly increase, making him a must-start in Week 13. Prepare for a potential boom game from Brown.
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Dallas Goedert: Goedert is another player poised to benefit. With fewer mouths to feed in the passing game, expect Hurts to look to Goedert more frequently in the red zone. This translates to increased touchdown potential and a significant boost in his fantasy value.
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Quez Watkins: Watkins will likely step into a more prominent role in the absence of Smith. While his consistency is questionable, he possesses the deep-threat potential to capitalize on the increased opportunities. Consider him a risky flex play depending on your other options.
Fantasy Football Strategies for Week 13
The absence of DeVonta Smith necessitates a reassessment of your fantasy lineup. Here are some strategies to consider:
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Prioritize A.J. Brown and Dallas Goedert: These two are the safest plays from the Eagles' offense this week. Their target volume is almost guaranteed to increase, making them strong starting options in all fantasy leagues.
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Consider Quez Watkins as a high-risk, high-reward flex play: He's a boom-or-bust option, but his upside makes him worth considering if you lack other reliable options at the flex position. Carefully weigh the risks before starting him.
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Explore Waiver Wire Options: Check your waiver wire for potential replacements. Look for receivers on teams with favorable matchups who could provide similar production.
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Adjust your Lineup Based on Your Other Options: The impact of Smith's absence will vary depending on the rest of your roster. If you have other strong options, you may not need to make drastic changes.
Long-Term Implications
While Smith's absence affects Week 13 significantly, it's crucial to consider the long-term implications. His return timeline will determine how the Eagles' offense will evolve in future weeks. Monitor injury reports closely to gauge his potential return and adjust your fantasy strategies accordingly.
Call to Action
Now is the time to adjust your fantasy football lineup based on DeVonta Smith's absence. Make the necessary changes to maximize your chances of winning in Week 13. Good luck!