Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson will sit out the team's season finale versus the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
Calvin Johnson inactive for Lions, fantasy owners
The Lions will rest their perennial Pro-Bowl receiver on Sunday due to a knee injury. We break down the fantasy implications.
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With Johnson missing practice all week and with the Lions out of contention, it’s easy to see why they would rest their superstar in a meaningless game. Johnson has missed practices -- and in some cases, games -- throughout the season due to a sprained knee, and offseason surgery could be in his future. But for now, Johnson is getting a head start on his recovery.
Fantasy Spin: With Johnson ailing, the Lions will rely on a receiving committee of Kris Durham, Nate Burleson and Kevin Ogletree to pick up the slack versus a porous Vikings defense. Joique Bell owners would do well to flex him this week, as screens could come with regularity with a depleted receiving corps. Joseph Fauria is also worth a look at tight end with Brandon Pettigrew deactivated as well.
As for Johnson, much will depend on his recovery to determine his fantasy value going forward, but nothing has happened that would bump him from being the first wide receiver off of the board. His long-term value remains at a premium after finishing 2013 with 84 catches, 1,492 yards and 12 touchdowns in 14 games.
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