Sam Bradford Injury: What Is Fantasy Effect on Brandon Lloyd, Steven Jackson?

Jim Thomas is reporting that Sam Bradford will miss today's game for the St. Louis Rams. Bradford has been nursing an ankle injury, but did hope to play. However, the team didn't feel comfortable risking a longer term injury. A.J. Feeley will be starting in place of Bradford, something that will have a big fantasy impact.

Entering the season, many felt that Sam Bradford was poised for a big year. However, he is suffering through a bit of a sophomore slump. Bradford's struggles should not all fall on his shoulders, as this roster is void of a consistent playmaker at receiver.

If you were counting on Bradford as your fantasy starter, you are likely in a tough situation. A.J. Feeley shouldn't be considered as your fantasy replacement. Feeley and the Rams are taking on a tough Dallas Cowboys defense. This unit does a good job creating pressure and shutting down the running game.

Bradford's injury also impacts the fantasy value of Brandon Lloyd and Steven Jackson. Both players fantasy value is greatly decreased with A.J. Feeley at quarterback.

Steven Jackson is going to be facing a ton of defenders in the box. Without Bradford, the Cowboys defense will not feel threatened, allowing them to put more men closer to the line of scrimmage.

Honestly, even with Bradford the Cowboys were likely to load the box. Jackson will need the Rams to find some success in the passing game or he isn't going to get any running room.

Brandon Lloyd is already trying to adjust to his new surroundings, but now he has to deal with A.J. Feeley at quarterback. Lloyd is somewhat familiar with the Rams offense, but still will need time to adjust.

This injury to Bradford impacts Lloyd's short and long-term fantasy value. Receivers need to develop continuity with their quarterback, something that comes from practice and playing time. At this point, Lloyd has been working with A.J. Feeley, which doesn't help his timing with Bradford.