What to do with Jared Cook in Week 17 of the fantasy football playoffs

The Carolina Panthers are next on the docket for Jared Cook. From a fantasy perspective, that’s a good thing for him.

Fantasy Football analysis: Saints TE Jared Cook

Cook gained 82 yards on three receptions in Week 16, but he didn’t see his usage increase despite the absences of WRs Michael Thomas and Tre’Quan Smith. He was targeted four times; he hasn’t been targeted more than five times in a game since Week 8. And last week, he lost looks to a couple of rookies — tight end Adam Trautman and wideout Marquez Callaway. He presents a pretty low floor, but this week’s matchup against the Panthers should inject some optimism into his outlook. Carolina has allowed 85 receptions to tight ends, which is the second-highest total in the NFL. They have also given up double-digit DraftKings points to a tight end in nine consecutive games. That includes Cook’s 3-32-1 line versus Carolina in Week 7.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Cook is worth a shot as a low-end TE1 this week, especially as New Orleans’ offense might have a pass-heavy game plan. He costs $4,700 on DraftKings.