Week 3 Fantasy Football Projections: 3 Fringe WRs Headed for a Big Day

I find wide receiver is consistently the hardest choice to make in a fantasy lineup. Production from wide receivers is just so inconsistent. The following are three guys who certainly have earned every week starter status, but they are must starts for this week.

Cincinnati Bengals' WR AJ Green

At the start of this season, I didn't think there was a chance I would recommend AJ Green at any point this season. Yet, here I am, saying this guy is a must start in his third game of his career. 

I didn't doubt Green's potential. I doubted the Bengals offense. Well, they are way ahead of schedule. And this week they are going against a horrible 49ers' pass defense.

The 49ers are 25th in passing yards allowed this season, and that includes a Week 1 game against the Seahawks' anemic pass offense.

The Niners don't have anyone that can match Green's size or athleticism.

Detroit Lions' WR Nate Burleson

Burleson is quietly putting together an outstanding season. He is clearly benefiting from all of the attention Calvin Johsnon is garnering from opposing defenses. Burleson has 12 catches for 153 yards on the season. He is going to improve those averages this week.

According to Football Outsiders, Minnesota is third in the NFL in defending teams No. 1 receivers. They are 19th against No. 2's. That means plenty of looks going Burleson's way, and plenty of chances to burn the defense.

Buffalo Bills' WR David Nelson

The Patriots and Bills are going to be in an absolute shootout this week. And while the Bills' offense has been led by its rushing game this season, it is going to be the passing game that keeps them in this one.

The Patriots are 11th in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game and 29th in passing yards. The Bills are going to spread out the Pats and try to beat them through the air.

That means lots of touches for Nelson. This season, Nelson already has 14 catches off of 19 targets for 149 yards and one touchdown. I expect him to better his averages in this one.