Terrance Williams, Cole Beasley's Fantasy Outlook After Dez Bryant's Injury

Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley could be in line for a boost in fantasy football circles after Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant suffered a knee injury against the Chicago Bears in Week 3 and was ruled inactive for Week 4 against the San Francisco 49ers.

Bryant is one of the league's most dynamic playmakers. There's nobody on the Cowboys' depth chart capable of filling his massive role by themselves. So, Dallas will likely spread the extra targets around among a handful of players.

Williams figures to see the heaviest workload as the top target for quarterback Dak Prescott. He only posted moderate numbers when pushed into a similar role last year, but there's hope he'll be able to make a more consistent impact this time around.

David Helman of the Cowboys' official site noted Bryant talked up his teammate after watching his work during training camp.

"Terrance—his mind is on a whole, totally different level. Something outstanding got into his brain," he said. "He wants to be a playmaker—which, he is a playmaker. He's tired of all the critics, and he's showing everybody what it is."

Williams still probably slots in better as a No. 2 wide receiver or flex player for the time being, depending on the severity of Bryant's setback. That said, he could push himself on to the No. 1 wideout fringe if everything falls into place perfectly.

Beasley should also see a noticeable uptick in usage. His value should also be boosted as a reliable red-zone target without the physical tools of the team's star receiver available inside the 20. It makes him a high-upside flex play for as long as Bryant is out.

Jason Witten is the other player who figures to benefit. The veteran tight end no longer makes the type of impact he did during his prime on a weekly basis, but at a fantasy position that lacks depth, even a couple extra looks could make him a top-five option.

All told, the Dallas offense doesn't figure to produce anywhere near its usual level without Bryant on the outside to attract defensive attention. But from a fantasy perspective, any type of extended absence would open the door for some big outings for the team's other receivers.

Williams should be the biggest beneficiary, assuming he's able to take full advantage of the opportunity this time around.