Michael Vick Injury: Why Eagles QB Is a Risky Week 3 Fantasy Starter

According to Pro Football Talk, Mike Vick will start today vs the New York Giants.  However, it might be wise to avoid starting Vick in your fantasy football league. 

The fact that he is starting puts him in the discussion for a possible top fantasy option.  However, concussions are very dangerous, taking only one hit to resurface.

The Eagles are taking on the New York Giants, who love to bring pressure.  Defensive Coordinator Perry Fewell is known for developing exotic blitz packages.  He has the luxury of a defensive line featuring Justin Tuck and Jason Pierre-Paul, but that doesn't mean he won't mix in a ton of blitzes.

Fewell is facing a tough situation, having to compensate for a injury devastated secondary.  Those injuries mean that this unit is less capable of shutting down a passing attack.  It is important to limit the time the secondary is expected to be in coverage.  That means that bringing pressure is a must.

Vick's concussion, the Giants pressure and a shaky offensive line could be a recipe for disaster.  The concussion is a concern, but you have to be equally as worried about other injuries.  Vick has been hit a ton and those hits are expected to continue.

If you have a decent back up quarterback option, it might be wise to avoid Vick.  This is one of those situations that drive fantasy owners crazy.  You could end up benching Vick, only to have him put up giant numbers.  However, you could also start Vick and have an injury force him out of the lineup.

I feel the decision depends on your backup quarterback situation.  If you have someone with a favorable matchup, you should start him.  Nobody can afford losing points on an injured fantasy starter.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.