Joe Mixon Injury: Fantasy Waiver Wire Targets
The Cincinnati Bengals' offense took a major hit this week with the news of Joe Mixon's injury. While the full extent of the injury is still unknown, it's safe to say his absence will be felt, particularly in fantasy football leagues. With Mixon out, managers will be scrambling to the waiver wire for replacements. But don't fret! There are some solid options available to fill the void in your lineup.
Analyzing the Bengals Backfield
Mixon's injury leaves a significant void in the Bengals' offense. With his expected absence, Samaje Perine is poised to step into the starting role. While Perine has been a reliable backup in the past, he's not a consistent fantasy producer. Keep in mind that the Bengals also have Chris Evans on the roster, a former third-round pick.
Here's a look at the potential backfield split:
- Samaje Perine: The likely lead back and a solid flex play in most formats.
- Chris Evans: Could see an increased role in the passing game, making him an intriguing speculative add.
Waiver Wire Targets
Given the uncertain nature of Mixon's injury, it's crucial to be prepared with some solid backup options. These players have the potential to provide substantial value in your fantasy lineup:
1. D'Onta Foreman (Carolina Panthers): Foreman has emerged as the lead back in Carolina, and his recent performance has been impressive. He's a strong runner with upside and a great handcuff option if Christian McCaffrey's injury troubles continue.
2. Rhamondre Stevenson (New England Patriots): Stevenson has consistently received a healthy workload in the Patriots' offense, showcasing his potential as a workhorse back. With Damien Harris out for the season, Stevenson is a must-add for managers in need of a reliable runner.
3. James Cook (Buffalo Bills): Cook has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in the passing game. He's likely to see an increased workload with Devin Singletary's recent struggles.
4. Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks): Walker's explosiveness and big-play ability make him a tempting waiver wire target. He's a potential breakout player who could dominate touches in Seattle's offense.
5. Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs): Pacheco is a powerful runner with a good blend of speed and strength. He's seeing an increasing role in the Chiefs' offense, making him a solid flex option for managers in need of a late-round pick.
Important Considerations:
- Mixon's injury timeline: Keep a close eye on updates regarding Mixon's recovery. If he's expected to miss extended time, your backup options will become even more valuable.
- Bengals' game script: The Bengals' offensive approach might change without Mixon. If they become more pass-heavy, Perine's value could decrease while Evans could see a boost.
Conclusion:
Mixon's injury throws a wrench in the fantasy landscape, but it also presents opportunities for managers to grab valuable replacements. Don't be afraid to aggressively target these players, and remember to stay informed about the latest news regarding Mixon's recovery. Good luck!
