First off, Jimmy Graham popped up on the Packers injury report (surprise, surprise) this week with an ankle ailment. He was limited at practice Wednesday and could carry a questionable tag into this weekend. Coach Matt LaFleur did say earlier in the week that the team will travel cross-country to Los Angeles on Friday, a bit early to help with jet lag I assume. We also know that WR Davante Adams (toe) is on track to return, so with that, let’s look into how to approach Graham this week.
Fantasy Football Analysis, Green Bay Packers TE Jimmy Graham
For the most part, the Los Angeles Chargers do a good job limiting tight ends. Outside of Week 3 vs. the Texans — when Darren Fells and Jordan Akins combined for 3 TDs — the Chargers haven’t allowed more than 70 yards to TEs in a game this season. Graham has been able to stay healthy (mostly playing through injuries), but still hasn’t been close to the TE he used to be. He hasn’t seen more than 5 targets in a game since Week 4 vs. the Eagles and has only gone over 10 FPTS three times this season. Unless he gets a TD, which isn’t easy to do vs. Los Angeles, Graham would likely be a bust. Plus, we need to factor in Adams’ imminent return, which would take targets away from everyone.
With all that and the uncertainty of Graham’s status heading into Sunday afternoon, it’s hard for me to tell you to roll him out. In deeper formats, where you’re hard-pressed to find a starting TE in a decent offense, sure, there are worse options than Graham. But if you’re in a 12-team league — and god forbid a standard league — Graham is best left on your bench this week.
Start/Sit Recommendation
Sit. (Only play in deep, PPR formats)
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