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Though the Atlanta Falcons no longer have an avenue to the playoffs, their wide receivers can still impact the fantasy playoffs. That group will not include All-Pro Julio Jones, but the team has several other weapons who will start in fantasy lineups this week.
Fantasy Football analysis: Falcons WRs Calvin Ridley, Russell Gage
With Jones ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Calvin Ridley will again take over as the lead receiver for the Falcons. Ridley has already set career highs in receptions (77) and receiving yards (1,192) and needs just one more touchdown to tie his personal best. Better still, Ridley has scored in each of his last two games and gone over 100 receiving yards in each of his last three.
Meanwhile, Russell Gage will move into a more featured role due to Jones’ absence. While not as hot as Ridley, Gage has delivered over the past three weeks. In each of those outings, he has either reached the end zone, caught five passes for at least 68 yards, or both.
As for the Falcons’ opponent, the Chiefs have allowed an average of roughly 11 receptions for 132 yards and a touchdown to wide receivers this season. However, they have yielded five touchdown receptions over their last four weeks.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Ridley as a high-end WR1.
Start Gage as a FLEX.