Week 3: Decker vs Bears
Very similar Week 2 results for Eric Decker that we saw in Week 1. The exception is that Decker reached the end zone in Week 3. We will see if the trend continues with his offensive numbers, but the fact he is the No. 1 Jets receiver is what is keeping his fantasy value.
Health could be an issue in Week 3 as Decker is nursing a bad hamstring and did not practice on Thursday. Keep an eye on this status on Sunday.
Against the Bears, Decker only rates a WR3. This is combination of his health and the way he has been used through two weeks. His rating will increase when his numbers do.
Week 2: Decker vs Packers
It wasn't Peyton Manning throwing to him anymore, but Eric Decker still put up some decent numbers in his Jets' debut. Five catches, seven targets and 74 yards is not a bad day. His owners will really benefit if QB Geno Smith can replicate his success on a regular basis.
Even with a decent matchup in Week 3, Decker is a borderline WR3 or flex for Week 2. If you need him, he might end up being a decent play.
Week 1: Decker vs Raiders
We all know Eric Decker did with Peyton Manning as his QB, but what can do with Geno Smith or Mike Vick throwing to him? Most people don't think he will come anywhere close to his numbers last season. But remember, Decker is the Jets No. 1 wide receiver, head and shoulders above #2, and that does count for something.
He has a great matchup Week 1 against Oakland. It will be interesting to see how much Smith focuses on Decker in the first game. it could tell us a story for the rest of the season. Start Decker as a low-end WR2 on Sunday.
Fantasy Upside
Eric Decker showed he can play in this league as his numbers were outstanding the past two seasons. Yes, he had Peyton Manning throwing the ball to him, but he was productive. His averages the last two seasons: 86 catches, 130 targets, 1,175 yards and 12 touchdowns. Pretty good. So, the ability is there and the Jets have him as their No. 1 receiver, meaning he should see an increase in targets. Outside factors will determine his effectiveness in 2014.
Fantasy Downside
Going from Manning to Geno Smith is going to diminish Decker's numbers. How much? Pretty significantly. Being the No. 1 receiver in New York will help him get targets, but he also will get more attention from opposing defenses. The Broncos were first in touchdown passes last season while the Jets were last. Although those numbers will improve for QB Geno Smith, we are talking somewhere in the low 20s. Overall, Decker will be happy to get 7 or 8 of those.
Bottom Line
Decker was in a great fantasy situation and although he won't be worthless, his numbers will likely suffer. Again, not terrible, but just a big step backwards. Decker has an ADP of 82 which is right about where he should be selected, especially if you believe Smith will improve this season. He is a solid WR3 for the 2014 season.
