New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz was practicing in full on Monday, with no limitations on his reps. He continues his fast recovery from a devastating knee injury.
Victor Cruz upgraded to full practice, fantasy value looking better
Victor Cruz’s fast recovery from a torn patellar tendon continued on Monday, when he had no limitations in practice. We break down the fantasy implications.
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“I feel good. The knee is 100 percent,” Cruz told WFAN’s Mike Francesa, via the New Jersey Star-Ledger. When asked about playing during the preseason, Cruz said “not necessarily,” but he didn’t rule it out. The Giants’ second preseason game takes place on Saturday.
Cruz tore his patellar tendon during last season’s Week 6 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. It’s one of the most severe injuries a football player can suffer, but Cruz has had a near-miraculous recovery, avoiding the PUP list to start training camp. He’s expected to be ready for Week 1.
Fantasy impact: This can only be good news for Cruz’s fantasy value. We’re still hesitant to declare him “back” until we see him in live game action -- patellar tears could easily sap his unique speed and burst. Still, all signs are pointing up for Cruz, whose ADP has climbed into the sixth round after optimistic reports all summer. He’s currently penciled in as the slot receiver, with Odell Beckham Jr. and Rueben Randle working on the outside. Having a healthy Cruz back would also be a boost to Eli Manning’s fantasy stock.
