The second fantasy football weekend has come and gone, featuring no shortage of notable performances worth diving into to determine rest-of-season value.
While you never want to overreact so early in the season, it’s important not to underreact, either. The NFL season is a sprint, not a marathon, where player values can fluctuate quite often. Getting ahead of market perception can be a great way to trade away a depreciating asset before it’s too late.
That’s where the panic meter comes in. On this page, we’ll take a look at high-priced players who struggled in their first games. Find out which players you should panic about.
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Fantasy Football Panic Meter: Week 2
Brian Thomas Jr. (WR – JAX)
Brian Thomas Jr. has struggled to start the year, catching only five of his 19 targets for 60 yards with a rushing touchdown. Reports indicate that the second-year star is dealing with a wrist injury, which could explain the inefficiency.
However, we have to acknowledge that Thomas did most of his damage with Mac Jones last season. With Trevor Lawrence, the former LSU standout hasn’t been nearly as effective. Perhaps the duo needs more time to establish better chemistry.
While I’m holding Thomas where I have him, you definitely have to be a bit concerned about a player you used a late-first or early-second round pick to acquire.
Verdict: 5 out of 10 on the Panic Meter
Tee Higgins (WR – CIN)
Tee Higgins has combined for six catches, 89 yards and one touchdown in two games. It hasn’t been as bad a start as others on this list, but with Joe Burrow out for at least three months, it’s time to downgrade the Bengals’ No. 2 wideout.
Expect backup quarterback Jake Browning to lock onto Ja’Marr Chase, resulting in fewer targets for Higgins. With that said, you’re not going to get much value for Higgins on the trade market. I don’t suggest moving on from him at 70 cents on the dollar.
The best move is to hold and hope for the best, especially since Browning is one of the best backups in the NFL.
Verdict: 7 out of 10 on the Panic Meter
TreVeyon Henderson (RB – NE)
TreVeyon Henderson had only three carries and two targets against the Dolphins in Week 2. That was not only fewer opportunities than Rhamondre Stevenson, but also Antonio Gibson.
However, this is the perfect buy-low opportunity on the talented rookie running back. You’re not going to see a three-man committee all year. It’s more likely that this was a short-term thing as Henderson gets acclimated to the NFL.
As a rookie, it’s fair to project that Henderson’s best work will come in the second half of the season. With that in mind, I’m not panicking on Henderson just yet. If you can move someone like Javonte Williams for Henderson, it’s worth a shot. Be patient with this first-year runner.
Verdict: 3 out of 10 on the Panic Meter
Mark Andrews (TE – BAL)
Mark Andrews has gotten off to the worst start imaginable, combining for only two catches for seven yards in two games.
This is even though the Ravens combined for 81 points in those two games. On top of that, Isaiah Likely has been out. This was supposed to be a strong start for Andrews, but he’s missed out on the opportunity.
There’s no way you’re not panicking on Andrews right now. While still a red-zone threat, this touchdown-dependent production is not what you want from your tight end. As someone who was bullish on Andrews coming into the year, I have no choice but to make adjustments. If you can ship him for someone like Harold Fannin Jr., make the move.
Verdict: 10 out of 10 on the Panic Meter
Terry McLaurin (WR – WSH)
I was low on Terry McLaurin coming into the season, as his big year last year was due to a spike in touchdowns, with yardage looking in line with career norms.
I also thought McLaurin would get off to a slow start because of a contract dispute that kept him out of camp for a lengthy period, so I’m not surprised to see only seven catches for 75 yards in two games.
With that said, it’s a good time to buy low on McLaurin, especially with Jayden Daniels at risk of missing Week 3 against the Raiders. McLaurin is still a rock-solid WR2, despite being overpriced in drafts this year. I’m not ready to panic on McLaurin just yet.
Verdict: 4 out of 10 on the Panic Meter
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