How to handle Greg Olsen injury in Week 3 fantasy football

Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen is nearing the twilight of his career, and while he remains productive, injuries are going to add up and start requiring more regular rest at practice. We’re seeing that with a back injury Olsen first suffered in Week 1. He sat out two practices to start Week 2, but was able to play in the short week Thursday Night Football matchup. He turned in a strong performance as the top pass catcher, with six receptions for 110 yards on nine targets.

The extra time after the game appears to be making life a little bit easier. Olsen was listed as limited on Wednesday’s practice participation report, but was then a full participant on Thursday and Friday. He is listed as questionable on the final injury report, but is expected to play on Sunday.

Fantasy impact: The Panthers are in chaos right now, with Cam Newton sidelined after aggravating a foot injury suffered in the preseason. Kyle Allen will get the road start in Week 3 against the Arizona Cardinals. Olsen makes sense as a safety blanket in the passing game, but a first time starting quarterback is unpredictable — especially when he is a second-year undrafted player. Olsen is worth a start against Arizona because of his history, but expectations should be tempered to a certain degree since we don’t know what Allen can do.