Aaron Hernandez Injury: Why Fantasy Owners Need to Bench TE in Week 5

Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez is still nursing a knee injury but is expected to play against the Jets today, according to Greg Bedard. When healthy, Hernandez has proven to be a good fantasy option. He is listed as a tight end but plays more like a wide receiver.

The Patriots use Hernandez in many different ways. He can be spotted in the slot, backfield or out wide. Hernandez is a really versatile player and is one of Tom Brady's favorite targets.

However, I would keep Hernandez on my fantasy football bench this week. Hernandez relies on his athletic ability and speed to make plays. His combination of size and quickness makes him a tough matchup. However, his production will decrease if he isn't 100 percent.

New England would love to have Hernandez on the field versus the Jets, but it might not be worth causing an injury. Players are often injured rushing back from an injury. If Hernandez isn't 100 percent, then he shouldn't play.

As a fantasy owner, you need to watch the inactive list. However, this might not give you a clear picture on Hernadez's health. It is possible that he is active but doesn't see the field. He could also be active and play some snaps but not be effective.

Hernandez also has to deal with the presence of teammate Rob Gronkowski. Gronkowski has emerged as the Patriots' top tight end. This means in one-tight-end sets Hernandez will be on the bench. It seems that Hernandez could be in line for some specially designed plays.

New England could have drawn up several plays specifically for Hernandez. This would be a great way to ease him back from injury. Either way you look at it, though, Hernandez is a risky fantasy option this week.

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