John Carlson stepped up in a big way for the injured Kyle Rudolph on Thursday night against the Washington Redskins. The veteran tight end led the team in just about every receiving category, finishing with seven receptions for 98 yards and a touchdown on seven targets.
John Carlson goes off for fantasy owners in Week 10
Kyle Rudolph is out for several weeks, and John Carlson already appears to be a suitable replacement at tight end. We break down the fantasy implications.
Hannah Foslien
Carlson scored for the first time since 2010. He was found by Christian Ponder wide-open after a play-action fake in the red zone. The duo showed great rapport throughout the night, but Ponder left late with a dislocated non-throwing shoulder.
Fantasy impact: Is it crazy to expect similar performances to this from Carlson? Yes. However, he could be worth a flier at tight end going forward, given the lack of depth at the position this season.
Ponder loves his tight ends, especially the ones from Notre Dame. Carlson will continue to start while Rudolph is out. Ponder already said he believes he'll be ready for Week 11, but owners should wait to see how he progresses over the next 10 days. Matt Cassel and Josh Freeman will not make anyone on the Vikings offense into a viable fantasy option.
• Week 10 fantasy football waiver advice: QB | RB | WR | TE | D/ST
• Week 10 fantasy football position rankings: QB | RB | WR | TE | D/ST
