The Dallas Cowboys’ receivers were expected to have a bigger role when running back Ezekiel Elliott finally started serving his six-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. In reality, without Elliott, the Cowboys top receiver, Dez Bryant, was almost a ghost in the loss to the Atlanta Falcons Sunday. Bryant had a team-high eight targets in the game, but he only caught four passes for 39 yards. He has been held under 40 receiving yards in two of the Cowboys’ last three outings.
Fantasy football start/sit advice Week 11: What to do with Dez Bryant Sunday
Bryant had another week with a lot of targets but low production. We look at the fantasy implications.
Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Bryant has a favorable matchup on paper against the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles Sunday night. The Eagles are average at defending against the pass, but they get cornerback Ronald Darby back this week. The Eagles have given up the sixth-fewest touchdowns to receivers so far this season. Bryant has not scored a touchdown since Week 7.
Fantasy impact: Dallas needs Bryant to help the offense fill in the void Elliott left behind. Unfortunately, issues with the offensive line and lack of running threats have really hurt the passing game for the Cowboys. Bryant’s high volume of targets gives him some fantasy appeal. However, he could be a bust against the Eagles if the Cowboys cannot protect quarterback Dak Prescott long enough to get Bryant the ball. Regardless, it’s hard to discount a wideout that ranks second in most red-zone targets. Still, owners should temper their expectations this week.
