The downward trajectory for the New York Giants has continued unabated through the first quarter of the 2020 season. Saquon Barkley’s season-ending knee injury removed the offense’s most dangerous weapon and second-year quarterback Daniel Jones’ struggles with ball security have prevented him from picking up the slack. Along with offensive coordinator Jason Garrett’s static, unimaginative play-calling, the Giants look mostly lost when they have the football.
Fantasy managers have to keep those limitations in mind when considering whether to start one of the team’s wide receivers.
Fantasy Football analysis: Giants WRs Darius Slayton, Golden Tate
Through four games, Darius Slayton ranks as the most heavily used wideout in the Giants’ stable. His 29 targets trail only Evan Engram on the team, and his 236 yards come in more than 100 above the next highest figure. Furthermore, Garrett uses Slayton as the primary target on deep shots, giving him the highest upside of any pass catcher on the roster.
As for Golden Tate, the former Pro Bowler has seen most of his action on short routes (7.4 yards per reception) and rarely in the red zone (one target for 4 yards, no score). And while Tate saw some action as a runner at previous stops in his NFL career, New York hasn’t given him a carry since last November. Still, given the lack of alternative weapons at the Giants’ disposal, Tate remains worthy of starting consideration for the time being.
While the raw numbers for both Slayton and Tate leave a lot to be desired, the Giants draw a Dallas Cowboys defense that has given up 53 catches for 736 yards and a staggering nine touchdowns to wide receivers so far. That matchup gives both wideouts hope for decent production in Week 4.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
While neither Slayton and Tate should start at wide receiver this week, both warrant serious consideration as flex options given the state of Dallas’ defense.