Fantasy Football Week 3: Which Marquee Players Are Riskiest Plays?

When setting your fantasy football lineups for Week 3 of the NFL season, consider these marquee players as risky starts:

QB Jay Cutler, Bears

 No team has intercepted Cutler in his career more than the Green Bay Packers, Cutler's Week 3 opponent. He also has his lowest passer rating (minimum three games) against the Bears' division rival. Part of that has to do with his reckless nature, but also the pressure the Packers have gotten on him over the past few seasons.

QB Michael Vick, Eagles

Vick will likely play, but coming off a concussion is always risky business. When the opponent is the Giants and their defensive line, it becomes even riskier. If New York can get a few big hits on Vick early in the game, he could be in for a long day at the office. He's still a guy you have to start, but don't be surprised if he's less effective this week.

RB Steven Jackson, Rams

Facing the Baltimore Ravens after coming off a quad injury is a tough task for any running back. And while the Ravens defense wasn't exactly the '85 Bears last week, they'll be looking to return to their Week 1 form. Jackson could be looking at a difficult return this weekend.

RB Felix Jones, Cowboys

Jones hasn't lit the world on fire since becoming the Cowboys featured back this season, and a separated shoulder doesn't help his cause. He'll be facing a Redskins defense that no longer looks like a pushover. Until he can prove the production and stay healthy, Jones is a risky start. 

WR Wes Welker, Patriots

Other teams have struggled to contain Welker, but it looks like the Bills have figured it out. He's yet to catch a touchdown pass in 14 career games against the Bills, and Welker is averaging less than 50 yards per contest. However, will that continue with Brady being as hot as he is to start the season?

WR Hakeem Nicks, Giants

I love Nicks as a player, but hate the matchup against Nnamdi Asomugha. While I think Nicks can still win some of those one-on-ones, you can't expect him to be as productive as he's been.

TE Fred Davis, Redskins

Davis has been a fantasy revelation through two games this season, as he has a score and nearly 200 yards receiving. The Cowboys defense presents him a big test, however. They were able to shut down All-Pro tight end Vernon Davis just a week ago. With how much Rex Grossman has looked to Davis in the early goings, you'd have to expect Dallas to focus a good portion of their attention his way.