Wes Welker not practicing Wednesday, fantasy owners wait for concussion clearance
Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker was not at practice on Wednesday. We break down the fantasy implications.
Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODA
Denver Broncos wide receiver Wes Welker missed practice on Wednesday, according to Mike Klis of the Denver Post. Welker sustained a concussion in Sunday's win over the Kansas City Chiefs, and did not return to the game. There was initial thought that the Broncos played Welker knowing he had a concussion, but the team suggested his return to the game after his initial visit to the sidelines was due to Welker being looked at for a neck injury.
Either way, Welker eventually left the game in the fourth quarter and did not return. One of the biggest storylines this week will be about Welker taking on his old team, the New England Patriots, but that will quickly fade if Welker can't play.
A player missing practice on Wednesday is the norm when it comes to concussions. He first has to be cleared for contact and practice, and then he has another test to pass on Saturday before being cleared to play.
Fantasy Impact: With how good Peyton Manning has been, Welker might have the most receiving yards of any player in the league if he were the only one in Denver. There's three other dependable targets in Denver, however, but that hasn't stopped Welker from being productive. He's caught 61 passes for 648 yards with nine touchdowns this season. He's a must-start if he plays, but fantasy owners will likely have to wait until later in the week to make the decision with confidence.
