Fantasy Football 2012: How Concerned Should You Be with Hakeem Nicks?

The New York Giants' star receiver Hakeem Nicks has never played a full 16-game schedule. He has missed six games over his first few seasons. Following his recent foot injury, there is a chance that this trend will continue.

Fortunately for Nicks and his fantasy owners, time is on his side. His broken foot came early enough that there is a chance that he’ll be ready to play in the opener.

There is speculation that the injury could cost him anywhere from four to six weeks or 10 to 12 weeks. Even if he misses the first game or two, it may not matter for fantasy owners.

Nicks has had at least 1,050 yards in each of the past two seasons despite not playing a full schedule. He has also had 18 touchdowns over the past two seasons.

Nicks really showed his value during the Giants’ Super Bowl run last year posting three 100-yard games and four touchdowns.

Nicks is still an WR1 despite the injury concerns. Should he remain a top-five fantasy wideout? Perhaps not, but he is still a high-end fantasy option.

While every week matters, the end of the year is when you really need your players. I understand if you don’t want to take the risk on Nicks, but you do need to be aware that while it is a risk, there is some serious reward.

If Nicks slides, you may get a value on him. Regardless, he’s a wide receiver that you should still target on draft day.

Also check out:

• 2012 Early Fantasy Football QB Rankings
• 2012 Early Fantasy Football RB Rankings
• 2012 Early Fantasy Football WR Rankings
• 2012 Early Fantasy Football TE Rankings
• 2012 Early Fantasy Football DEF Rankings