Sammy Watkins is gearing up for a return to the field after recovering from a calf injury for two weeks. Watkins is returning without quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who is dealing with a calf injury. With Taylor sidelined, EJ Manuel will start as the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills. Manuel is more of a pocket passer than Taylor. With Percy Harvin out for Week 6, Watkins will need to provide a threat downfield despite being less than 100 percent.
Sammy Watkins injury update: Bills WR is active, fantasy owners should be cautious
Sammy Watkins will play in Week 6, but quarterback Tyrod Taylor won’t. We take a look at the fantasy implications.
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Fantasy impact: Manuel doesn't necessarily create a huge disadvantage for Watkins, but the chemistry for both players is relatively unknown. Manuel played just five games during Watkins' 2014 rookie season. In Week 2 of 2014, Watkins posted an 8-117-1 stat line with Manuel under center. Beyond that week, Watkins didn't post huge numbers. Most of Watkins' production came from Kyle Orton after Manuel was benched.
Still, the team’s latest offensive coordinator, Greg Roman, may be able to pair Watkins and Manuel more successfully. The bottom line is that there are a lot of unknown variables for Watkins in Week 6. He’s a viable emergency plug-and-play if needed, but he’s probably best avoided, especially at less than 100 percent.
