The Green Bay Packers announced on Monday that an MRI confirmed what everyone had feared: wide receiver Jordy Nelson is done for the season with a torn ACL. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport first reported the news on Sunday, when Nelson left the second preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Packers confirm Jordy Nelson tore his ACL, ending his fantasy season before it begins
The Packers’ worst fears came true Monday when an MRI confirmed Jordy Nelson’s torn ACL. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Fantasy impact: It’s a big loss for both the Packers and fantasy owners, especially those who held their drafts early. Nelson was one of the most rock-solid WR1s in fantasy, catching 98 passes for 1,519 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The 30-year-old underwent hip surgery in the offseason, but he was rounding back into full health before this week. Now his season is over before it begins.
That said, the Packers have some options in Nelson’s stead. Davante Adams is now set to earn a starting job on the outside, and his fantasy value could shoot into the WR2 level with Aaron Rodgers giving him more targets. Rookie Ty Montgomery is an interesting late-round stash in deeper leagues, while Jeff Janis could get an extended look in the final two preseason games.
Nelson’s loss will sting, but it’s not a season-ending crippler in either real life or fantasy. Rodgers and Green Bay will manage, while fantasy owners can feel free to plug Randall Cobb into Nelson’s former draft slot.
