Week 4 vs Kansas City
The Bengals are pass-happy right now, and that's good news for Marvin Jones owners. While opposing defenses are trying to stop A.J. Green, Jones is a legit downfield threat. He caught three balls over 20 yards last week and scored a touchdown for the second straight game.
Jones has a great matchup for Week 4 against one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. The Chiefs are 32nd in aFPA to wide receivers this season. Start Jones as a solid WR3 or flex this week. He should have good production at home.
Week 3 at Baltimore
Marvin Jones is off to a slow start with only four receptions for 67 yards through the first two weeks. Though he did find the end zone in Week 3, he was a touchdown maker two seasons ago.
The Ravens pass defense is not what it used to be, so Jones could have some success if QB Andy Dalton looks his way a little more. The good news for Jones owner is he is clearly the No. 2 wide receiver in Cincinnati (he has played 80 percent of the offensive snaps). But until he gets more balls thrown to him, we think you should keep him on the bench for Week 3.
Week 1 vs Raiders
Marvin Jones returns after missing all of 2014. If he picks up where he left off in 2013, he will be good fantasy depth. In Week 1 against an average Raiders pass defense, Jones will be getting his feet wet, so we will see where he is at with Andy Dalton and offensive coordinator Hue Jackson. He is probably not a starter for Week 1, but having him on your roster will be useful
Fantasy Upside
After missing all of last season with various injuries, Marvin Jones is slated to be on the opposite side of A.J. Green and bounce back to form in 2015. Jones was impressive in 2013 with 51 receptions and 10 touchdowns. The Bengals like what Jones bring to the table as a No. 2 WR, so he will see plenty of snaps.
Fantasy Downside
The Bengals are a run-first team and really focus on A.J. Green in the passing game, even when opposing defenses are paying special attention to him. It will be up Jones to show QB Andy Dalton he can be a viable option.
Bottom Line
If fantasy owners get another year like 2013 out of Jones, he will end up as a draft day steal. With an ADP of 144, Jones should go in the later rounds of drafts, but don't be afraid to take him a little higher. If he stays healthy, he will easily return value.
Week 5: Jones vs. Patriots
Marvin Jones did not practice on Thursday so his return is still in doubt. If for some reason he does play, he still should remain on the bench against a Patriots pass defense that has stifled wide receivers this season. Jones offers WR2/3 upside once he gets healthy and passes Sanu as the Bengals WR2, but for now Jones is only a bench stash.
Week 1: Jones vs Ravens
Marvin Jones is out until October with a foot injury. He was supposed to be the starter along side A.J. Green, and should eventually take that role if he gets healthy.
