A couple weeks ago Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch got suspended and sort of screwed over his fantasy owners. Last week, Leonard Fournette did the same as he violated team rules and was held out of Jacksonville’s Week 9 game. And by halftime of last Sunday’s games, two more players — A.J. Green and Mike Evans — had fantasy owners minds racing for next week as the two could be suspended for fighting.
In addition, Ezekiel Elliott’s six game suspension will eventually be settled and his owners will need to have a contingency plan (as if recent suspension scares haven’t prepared them).
Here’s a brief look at what to do about the aformentioned three players should they be out for Week 10. It’s never too early to make a plan.
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys
As has been documented for some time now, Elliott’s lawyers have been allowing the Dallas running back to have an impressive sophomore campign, following up an impressive rookie campaign. But eventually something will have to give. Stays and injunctions and appeals can only keep him on the field so long, and if he is absent Alfred Morris is the man to get. He’s probably been picked up and dropped repeatedly during recent uncertainty. Also watch for Darren McFadden. It’s worth picking up one of the two just in case a decision is made on his suspension.
A.J. Green, WR, Bengals
Another uncertainty, as his brawl with Jalen Ramsey appeared to be instagated by Ramsey, not Green. But both could be suspended next week. If so, Brandon LaFell or Tyler Croft are good additions. While Green has more than the No. 2 and 3 WR on Cincy’s roster combined, both have found the end zone with Croft responsible for three scores and 11.5 yards per catch.
Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers
The Bucs are a mess. After getting considerable playoff buzz and a successful run on HBO’s “Hard Knocks,” Jameis Winston and company looked like a team of fantasy studs. Well, not so much. After a lingering Winston injury and sideline brawl that has Evans suspended one game (he is currently appealing), there are few silver linings in the Tampa pass game. DeSean Jackson is hit or miss, but if he’s the No. 1 wideout he could be a no-brainer start in Week 10. Also Adam Humphries could be worth a roster spot if Evans is out and your team is desperate.
