The Green Bay Packers were staring down the barrel of an 0-2 start after losing Jordan Love to injury in Week 1, and yet they pulled it together to shock the world and beat the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2. The Packers won on the back of their running game, as the passing game was nowhere to be found.
This disappearing act by the passing game has fantasy football managers questioning if they should start Jayden Reed or Christian Watson in Week 3. Both players combined for two receptions last week, which is a scary proposition to feel comfortable starting in your lineup against the strong Tennessee Titans defense.
Should You Start Jayden Reed or Christian Watson in Week 3?
In the Pro Football Network Start/Sit Optimizer, PFN’s Consensus Rankings say that Reed is the player to start. Our Optimizer has a close battle, but Reed is projected for 9.5 fantasy points from 2.8 receptions and 35.1 receiving yards, while Watson is slated for 2.1 receptions with 30.8 receiving yards. As you can see, neither wide receiver will become a WR1 in Week 3.
My rankings agree that Reed is the better play of the Packers’ wide receivers; however, I proceed with caution starting either player as they have limited ceilings with Malik Willis under center.
Also, pay no attention to the rumors of Love starting because he was seen in practice. This Titans’ defense is legitimate, and it is not the team you want to bring back your injured franchise quarterback against, especially when he is dealing with a knee injury and the Titans play on turf. Next week should be the target point for Love when he returns to Lambeau Field and the more forgiving hybrid grass.
Reed’s Week 3 Fantasy Outlook
Reed is a talented wide receiver who lacks a high-end route total because his slot role is his primary position. However, Reed’s talent helps him perform his limited duties. So far this season, he has seen eight targets for six receptions, 147 yards, and a touchdown. He also has solidified his Swiss Army knife role as he has seen 1+ rushing attempts in each game this season and even has a rushing touchdown.
Jayden Reed took a soul tonight
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) September 7, 2024
Reed’s explosive nature is evident, as TruMedia ranks him third overall with 24.5 yards per reception. That total was created on an average air-yards-per-target mark of only 12.63. Reed’s playmaker abilities kick in once he touches the ball, as his 11.2 yards after the catch per reception sit as the 12th highest in the NFL.
Reed has talent, but it will automatically become limited if Love is missing from action. This week, Reed will draw time from L’Jarius Snead, one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL. If Williams is under center, we suggest you look elsewhere for your fantasy production.
Watson’s Week 3 Fantasy Outlook
If Willis is under center, we do not have much to say about Watson in Week 3. Last week, the combination didn’t even create a single target. Until further notice, Watson should be on your bench. Sure, he can pop one long touchdown with his speed and size, but without Love under center, the play is too risky, and Watson turns into a Marquez Valdes-Scantling level of play more than he becomes a solidified starter.