The Dallas Cowboys prepare for their Week 15 home matchup against the Minnesota Vikings following a disappointing loss to the Detroit Lions on Thursday Night Football. CeeDee Lamb suffered a concussion and was unable to finish the game. Will fantasy football managers have their star receiver available this week?
CeeDee Lamb Injury Update
Lamb had been fully healthy since returning from his high ankle sprain that cost him three games earlier this season. That changed Thursday night when he Helanded hard on his head against the Lions, causing his hands to tense up from the impact in what was a scary sight.
The injury occurred early in the third quarter when Lamb went up for a one-handed catch in the end zone and crashed to the turf, hitting his head. Fortunately, Lamb was able to walk off the field under his own power. He was quickly ruled out with a concussion.​
Now, Lamb must clear the protocol before returning. Players typically miss at least one game after sustaining a concussion. However, Lamb has the benefit of the mini bye. With an extra three days to recover, Lamb has a better chance than he otherwise would of being ready to go on Sunday.​​
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer relayed to reporters Friday that Lamb had a good day one day after sustaining the concussion. Schotty also said Lamb was progressing well as of Monday.
The sixth-year wideout will have to pass an evaluation administered by an independent neurologist in order to clear the league’s concussion protocol.​
Lamb’s Fantasy Outlook
Lamb had a real shot at a 200-yard evening before exiting on Thursday night. He had six catches for 121 yards before the injury. The performance marked his second consecutive 100-yard outing after recording 112 yards and a touchdown against Kansas City on Thanksgiving.​
He’s hit double digit fantasy points in every game he’s played this season outside of the one he left in the first quarter with the ankle sprain. With 121 yards Thursday, he tied Tony Hill for the second most 100-yard receiving games in team history with 26.​
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If Lamb can’t go, George Pickens would serve as the WR1. From Weeks 3-6, with Lamb out, Pickens averaged 25 fantasy points per game.
Even with Lamb active, Pickens has been very productive, demonstrating the Cowboys offense can support multiple receivers when both are healthy. Quarterback Dak Prescott had the opportunity to develop significant chemistry with Pickens during Lamb’s absence.​
Fantasy managers rostering Lamb should monitor his progress through the concussion protocol closely over the next week. The extra recovery time from the Thursday night game gives him a realistic chance to clear protocol by Sunday. However, prepare contingency plans in case he cannot clear protocol in time for the Vikings matchup.​
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