Fantasy Football: Should You Try to Buy Low on Michael Vick?

Michael Vick had a pretty rough 2011 season in which he went from a possible first overall fantasy pick to one that dealt with another injury and finished with nearly as many interceptions (14) as touchdown passes.

While he set a career high with his 3,303 passing yards and managed an impressive 589 rushing yards, he left owners disappointed with just one rushing touchdown.

Better things were expected this year, but he got off to a rough start against Cleveland. With the Ravens on tap this weekend, there is a chance that Vick has another mediocre (at best) game.

If that is the case, should you swoop in and try to pry him away from his owner on the cheap?

Obviously it depends on what you have to give up, but let’s take a closer look.

Vick threw for 317 yards and a pair of touchdowns, adding another 32 yards on foot. Impressive numbers. Unfortunately, his four interceptions ate away at his otherwise impressive fantasy totals.

That mixed performance came against Cleveland, which was supposed to be one of his better early games.

This week brings Baltimore, which is definitely a challenge for the gifted quarterback. They definitely have the capability of keeping him in check. Looking down the road, it remains a difficult path.

Vick should put up big numbers against Arizona in Week 3, but follows that up with the Giants, Steelers and Lions. For a player with an injury history, that’s a tough trio of games. His new rib protection will be put to the test.

Coming out of the Week 7 bye, he has a nice run of Atlanta, New Orleans, Dallas, Washington (twice), Carolina and Tampa Bay. That’s the bread and butter of his season.

He finishes with Cincinnati and Washington (and the Giants if you play 17 weeks).

There is always an injury risk with Vick, but if you can snag him on the cheap, go for it. He was already devalued to start the year, and if he has two rough starts, his stock will drop even lower.

He should pay dividends later so definitely put the feelers out there.

Also check out:

• 2012 Week 2 Fantasy QB Rankings
• 2012 Week 2 Fantasy RB Rankings
• 2012 Week 2 Fantasy WR Rankings
• 2012 Week 2 Fantasy TE Rankings
• 2012 Week 2 Fantasy Football Start/Sit Options