Fantasy Football Week 4 Projections: Assessing Jacoby Ford's Start-or-Sit Status

Jacoby Ford is expected to return to the Raiders' lineup versus the New England Patriots.  Ford has missed the past few games with an injury.

His return means that fantasy owners will have a decision to make, as Ford has established himself as an fantasy option.

After the Raiders selected him in the 2010 NFL Draft, people began to criticize the Raiders for continuing to make selections based on speed.

However, Ford has shown that his speed makes him a dynamic playmaker.  He has contributed in the running game, passing game and on special teams.

Ford's ability to score from anywhere on the field makes him an intriguing fantasy option.  However, the Raiders' game plan is what makes him a legitimate fantasy option.  Last season, they worked to find ways to get Ford the ball.

However, this season it appears that he is going to be the focal point of the offensive strategy.

During the opening game, the Raiders ran several designed plays to get Ford the ball.  They realize his potential and playmaking ability.  Their willingness to find creative ways to feature Ford makes him good fantasy option.

However, this may not be the week to insert him in your lineup.  He is still recovering from his injury and his amount of playing time is uncertain.  Ford is only a real option if he is guaranteed to be a full participant.

Ford is still developing as a receiver, meaning the majority of his production will come on designed plays.  If he isn't 100 percent, Ford could only see the field in specific situations.  Inconsistent playing time would limit Ford's potential for a big play.

His big-play potential is what makes Ford a viable fantasy option.

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