Fantasy Football: Should You Be Concerned with WR Victor Cruz?

New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz had a concerning stat line in his Week 1 primetime matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. Cruz was a highly valued receiver this draft, with an ADP of mid-third round. So with this poor opening performance should you start him or be worried in Week 2?

His game totals equaled six receptions for 58 yards, with a disappointing three drops. Cruz looked a little off the entire game—and although he led the team in receptions, much more was expected.

Cruz did say post-game that he “lacked concentration” during the game. This can be attributed to first-game jitters as well as the massive expectations as one of last year’s big breakout players.

Let it be clear though, he did almost have a touchdown which should have been a holding call, and Cruz almost held on for the catch. This perhaps would have given Cruz another chance at a touchdown—and this would be a completely different story.

So don’t be worried fantasy owners, their next matchup is against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have a below average secondary. They’ll allow Cruz to return to form and explode for the large numbers he had last year.

Another reason not to be worried about Cruz is that it took until the third week of the season last year before his numbers really started to shine. His first two weeks were relatively quiet, and Cruz may be a player that takes a few games to get used to the pressure and up to game-speed.

He’s still a must-start for Week 2 in all circumstances, as the criticism will drive him to a huge game. One of the biggest mistakes a fantasy owner can make is judging too much on Week 1 and dumping a player that will bounce back.

If you did not get the opportunity to draft Cruz, right now would be a great time to try and snag him in a deal. The previously mentioned mistake is an all too common one in which people will dump poor performers for way less than actual trade value.

Keep Cruz in your starting lineup and still expect big numbers in Week 2.