The New England Patriots passing attack has been inconsistent this season, but it seemed to take things to another gear in their Week 4 win over the Atlanta Falcons. Kenbrell Thompkins and Julian Edelman were the dominant receivers for fantasy football owners. Thompkins finished with six receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown. Edelman finished with seven receptions for 118 yards. Stevan Ridley was the next closest with two receptions for 26 yards.
Kenbrell Thompkins, Julian Edelman lead Patriots fantasy receiving effort
The New England Patriots got their passing attack in gear in Week 4, led by wide receivers Kenbrell Thompkins and Julian Edelman. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Fantasy impact: Rob Gronkowski and Danny Amendola were both late scratches, downgraded to out on Saturday. Gronk is reportedly healthy and ready to go, while Amendola is still a question mark for Week 5. Thompkins and Edelman took full advantage of the situation to establish their bona fides in the Patriots passing attack.
Edelman has generally been best suited as a PPR receiver. Although he did not reach the end zone, this was one of his best performances of the season. He remains best suited for PPR leagues, but it is good to know he can rack up some yards on occasion.
Thompkins is starting to emerge as the breakout receiver many envisioned during August drafts. After two shaky weeks, Thompkins hauled in two touchdowns last week. That seems to have inspired more confidence from Tom Brady, and the rookie's emergence should move him on to your WR 2 radar. The Patriots travel to face a tough Bengals defense, but Brady and company should be able to make things happen.
