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Justin Hunter was a hot value pick this fantasy football season. But as the third wide receiver on the depth chart, whether or not he’ll provide consistent value is the question. Right now, he’s the 62nd ranked WR in the league. So is he worth a start this week?
Of course, that’s entirely based on your lineup. With the injuries all around the league, you just might have to start him. But if you have multiple players to choose from, there’s more to think about. However, when it’s said and done, I say your best off letting Hunter sit on your bench this week.
The Cincinnati Bengals have given up the sixth most fantasy points to wide receivers. But most of their troubles come against teams’ WR1 and WR2. In their two games, the Bengals have given up an average of 20 points between opposing teams’ top two targets. In the Tennessee Titans‘ case, that would mean Nate Washington and Kendall Wright would post 20 points between the them. The Bengals defense against the WR3 is a different story, though.
In the past two games, the Bengals have allowed three points to each of their opponent’s third receiver option. Hunter has averaged 4.5 points his past two games, so he’s right around the range the Bengals give up to players similar to him.
Of course, we need to account that Hunter was a player who thrived on individual touchdown games last season; every four games he would catch a touchdown. Because he hasn’t had score this season, it feels as if he’s “due” for a TD. But at the same time, the stats are saying the matchup isn’t right for him.
Hunter could get you about nine points this week if he gets in the end zone. But I’d play it safe with him this week if you can avoid starting him. He’s only had seven targets a game, and takes in 2-3 per game so far. That doesn’t give give me confidence in him
