An undermanned Atlanta Falcons squad will host the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. Top running back Todd Gurley will miss the game, placing more pressure on Matt Ryan and the team’s top receivers to pick up the slack.
Fantasy Football analysis: Falcons WRs Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Russell Gage
If Jones suits up on Sunday, he will have done so after missing an entire week of practice. The All-Pro wide receiver has battled lower-body issues throughout the season, leaving games early after re-aggravating his injuries during those contests. Accordingly, even if Jones does receive the green light to play against the Raiders, he could drop out before making much of an impact on fantasy lineups.
Calvin Ridley has also battled injuries this season, though he appeared healthy during last week’s matchup with the New Orleans Saints and practice in full this week. With Jones either unable to play or limited, Ridley should see a heavy workload in the Falcons’ passing game.
Meanwhile, No. 3 wideout Russell Gage has fallen off since a strong start to the season. While quarterback Matt Ryan still looks Gage’s way regularly — 28 targets over the Falcons past four games — Gage has averaged just 37 yards over that span.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Jones as a low-end WR2, if he’s active.
Start Ridley as a low-end WR1.
Sit Gage.