Fantasy Football Player Notes

What an efficient performance by Lockett last week, as he caught all eight of his targets for 92 yards. Even better? D.K. Metcalf continues to improve, meaning Lockett could reap the benefits of Metcalf getting top-tier coverage. Lockett should see a lot of Jonathan Jones, a veteran cornerback who's been a solid cornerback through the years, though not great. Even going back to last year when the Patriots were the shutdown defense, Jones allowed a 110.8 QB Rating in his coverage. He allowed 13.0 yards per reception and a touchdown every 15.2 targets. Six of the top-seven performances the Patriots allowed to wide receivers last year were slot-heavy receivers. Lockett played 68.4 percent of his snaps from the slot in Week 1. You should trust him as a solid WR2 this week.

The connection between Metcalf and Wilson continues to grow, though Metcalf did have an ugly drop in Week 1. The matchup with the Falcons cornerbacks was a cakewalk compared to what he'll face this week, as it's expected that Stephon Gilmore shadows him. That's obviously a tough matchup, though it's worth noting that Gilmore did allow 4-of-4 passing for 37 yards to DeVante Parker before he left with a hamstring injury. But going back to the start of last year, Gilmore has allowed exactly one touchdown on 104 targets in coverage, which is just bananas considering he covers the opposing WR1 every week. The reason you have to love Metcalf in fantasy is due to the fact that he's seeing six-plus targets per game from what may be the most efficient passer in the league. Even if he starts with two catches for 30 yards, there could be an 80-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter that changes his fortune. Yes, that can happen with anyone, but combining volume with Wilson, and a big-play wide receiver is a must-play nearly every week. Because of that, Metcalf should remain in lineups as a risk/reward WR3.