Victor Cruz's injury altered the scope of fantasy football in 2014, not only because one of the NFL's premier slot receivers was out for the season, but it also paved the way for superstar Odell Beckham, Jr. to light up fantasy scoreboards.
Fantasy football draft strategy, 2015: Victor Cruz remains a risky pick in mid-rounds
The New York Giants will plan on having their slot receiver return to action in 2015. We break down the fantasy implications.
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In 2015, however, Cruz will be back and give Eli Manning a trio of capable wideouts, with Rueben Randle also in the fold. As a result, fantasy owners are excited about Cruz's prospects, but they would be wise to exercise caution.
Fantasy Spin: Reports have since surfaced that Cruz may not be ready for a triumphant Week 1 return after tearing the patellar tendon in his right knee, and the New York Giants now have to address a calf injury that he suffered. The Giants don't have any reason to rush Cruz, and there is no set timetable for his return. Despite the seriousness of his previous injury, fantasy owners have been fine taking Cruz with a mid-round pick when he should instead be treated as a late-round flier.
In truth, the Giants ought to view any contributions that Cruz gives them as a bonus, since it is no sure thing he can regain the same agility and speed before his devastating knee injury. Despite that, fantasy owners are exhibiting perhaps too much optimism in Cruz when he is being selected over receivers such as Larry Fitzgerald, Marques Colston and Anquan Boldin.
There’s still optimism that Cruz can contribute later in the season, but it needs to be bridled if it costs owners a seventh-round pick.
