The Dallas Cowboys are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11, offering a fresh landscape for fantasy football lineups. A focal point for many managers this week is wide receiver George Pickens, who is expected to play despite not being listed on the injury report.
Over the past three games without teammate CeeDee Lamb, Pickens accumulated 26 targets and secured 19 catches. However, in the three games since Lamb’s return, his numbers have slightly decreased, showing 24 targets and 17 receptions. While the target quantity remains relatively stable, the quality has seen a decline, particularly concerning red zone opportunities.
During the time Lamb was sidelined, Pickens received multiple end zone targets, resulting in an impressive average of over three PPR points per target. In contrast, since Lamb’s return, he has received just one end zone target and has dropped to an average of 1.7 PPR points per target. Although these figures still indicate a level of viability, the week-winning potential that they once had appears diminished.
Despite these challenges, managers should still consider Pickens a lineup staple due to his prominent role in one of the league’s most pass-heavy offenses. This Week 11 matchup against the Cowboys is particularly favorable, granting Pickens a solid chance to perform. It’s worth noting that even with his recent fluctuations, Pickens remains a valuable asset compared to expectations set during the drafting season nearly three months ago.
In terms of projections for Week 11, Pickens is estimated to score approximately 16.0 fantasy points in PPR formats, translating to around five receptions for 84 yards, with the possibility of 0.3 touchdowns and a single rushing yard added to his tally.
Weather will not pose any issues during this matchup, as the Raiders play indoors, ensuring ideal conditions with a comfortable temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit and no wind influence.
For managers seeking further advice, this Week 11 brings an exciting opportunity for Pickens and a carefully monitored injury report could offer insights into other lineup decisions.