New York Jets Week 5 fantasy start/sit: Can the Jets offense finally take off?

Stars to Ground

Players to avoid this week

Luke Falk – QB, NYJ

Watching the game against the Patriots, Luke Falk looked like he had no idea what he was doing. When he entered the Cleveland game, it seemed as if the basics were in place and there would be a chance for him to improve. He was on my list to sit against the Patriots and looks like he will stay there until Darnold comes back.

Against New England, Falk threw for only 98 yards. The offense did him no favors allowing five sacks, but a professional QB adjusts. To think, across the field on Sunday sits a solid back up that would have been great for the Jets, Josh McCown. He came out of retirement to sign with Philly as their backup to Carson Wentz after Nick Foles left as a free agent.

The Philadelphia defense shouldn’t be as tough as New England, but they can still rush the passer with Fletcher Cox and Derek Barnett. Falk should get comfortable on the bench every week until he can average more than seven fantasy points.

Demaryius Thomas – WR, NYJ

The former Broncos star has played in only one game since being traded to the New York Jets. When Gang Green acquired him from New England, he was thought to be a good replacement for Quincy Enunwa. So far, Thomas’ NYJ fantasy stat line is in the negative.

It does take time getting acclimated to a new offense, but Thomas should be familiar with Gase and his offense from when the two were together in Denver. That’s when Thomas racked up his best numbers.

With the unstable nature of the New York Jets quarterback position right now, Thomas does not look like his stats will improve until Darnold comes back. Getting five points against the Eagles this week would be a blessing. My suggestion is to keep an eye out for him on the waiver wire, wait until there is a sign of fantasy life, then maybe stash him on your roster.

Robby Anderson – WR, NYJ

Two years ago, Robby Anderson was a must-start every week. He provides a Tyreek Hill-esque explosiveness for the Jets offense. Now he’s just a shell of himself.

So far this season, Anderson only has 115 yards receiving and no touchdowns. Last week against New England, his fantasy total was just over one point. Granted, he had an inexperienced QB trying to throw the ball. But when you are the only returning veteran wide receiver on the team, expectations are higher.

The Eagles secondary is banged up right now. If Sam Darnold was healthy, Anderson would be on the other list because he could exploit them with ease. However, Luke Falk struggled to throw the deep ball last week which is where Anderson makes his money. I am projecting three catches for 37 yards and a dropped touchdown pass this week.