Fantasy Football: Keep an eye on injury-plagued players

Sen. Charles Schumer announces the Commuter Benefits Equity Act, which would extend federal mass transit benefits that are currently scheduled to expire January 1st. (Nov. 11, 2013) Photo Credit: Handout Handout/ Joaquin Simo

In football, injuries are bound to occur, and an elite player’s season can be derailed in one play. While it is nearly impossible to predict who will get hurt when, one important element to fantasy football is adjusting to the injuries hampering your top players. So, let’s break down some of the players who aren’t quite at 100% capacity:

Peyton Manning

(QB, Broncos)

While a high ankle sprain and two matchups against the top tier Chiefs defense over the next three weeks is a concern for most QBs, Manning is different. As long as he plays, he should be in your lineup.

Jay Cutler (QB, Bears)

Cutler not only looked shaky last week, but also managed to reinjure himself. It is time to cut bait in favor of emerging QBs like Nick Foles (Eagles) and Case Keenum (Texans).

Darren McFadden (RB, Raiders)

While injuries are unpredictable with most players, with McFadden they happen every year. It is time to start looking for other options.

Andre Brown (RB, Giants)

He looked great last Sunday and will be the top back for the Giants the rest of the way. Consider him an RB2 from here on out, but be wary of further injury risk.

Percy Harvin (WR, Seahawks)

Harvin is an elite talent, but he will reportedly only see limited snaps this week and the Seahawks have their bye in Week 12. Bench him over the short term before he emerges as a WR1 for the fantasy playoffs.

Roddy White (WR, Falcons)

White hasn’t looked like himself all year, but he appears to be getting closer to full speed and will get a lot of down the stretch as abysmal Atlanta plays from behind.

Jimmy Graham (TE, Saints)

A foot injury is limiting his scoring opportunities and is something he will be forced to play with going forward. Nonetheless, only Rob Gronkowski (Patriots) should be considered a better TE from here on out.

Alex Case is amNY’s fantasy

football columnist.