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Despite their 10-4 record, the Cardinals have dealt with injuries to several key players. At the top of the list? Star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The 29-year-old injured his knee in Week 14 against the Rams, which is not what the Cardinals or fantasy managers wanted to hear.
Since then, there have been more reports on his injury and timeline for returning. Is DeAndre Hopkins out for the season? If so, what does that mean for the rest of the Cardinals' receivers. Let us take a closer look!
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Is DeAndre Hopkins Out For The Season?
Originally it was reported that DeAndre Hopkins would be placed on IR and miss the rest of the regular season. It was then reported that he would need surgery to repair a torn MCL. Hopkins may be able to return later in the postseason, but he will not be a factor for fantasy football managers for the rest of the season:
What Does This Mean For The Other Cardinal Receivers?
Of all the Cardinals receivers, it looks as if Christian Kirk will benefit the the most. After playing 74% of the snaps in Week 14, he then caught 9-of-12 targets in Week 15 against the Lions. His big-play ability was already enticing, but, now, he also has the full-time role and higher volume of consistent targets we're chasing.
A.J. Green should also be in line for a large target share, as evidenced by the the last two weeks (8 and 10 targets). Meanwhile, with less four-receiver sets, we should see Zach Ertz eclipse the 80% snap rate that is critical for tight ends. Thus, he should be considered a high-end TE2/low-end TE1, depending on the matchup, while Kirk and Green can be considered rising WR3s the rest of the way.
The Cardinals have already shown to be able to overcome adversity. With how they spread the ball around, Hopkins' loss isn't as detrimental as it would have been last year, thanks to the added depth of their receiving corps this year. Although a shocking Week 15 blowout to the Detroit Lions may be leaving more questions and doubt going forward, and having us wondering if the loss of Hopkins will be an even bigger loss than it seems.
Stay tuned for updates on Hopkins and his recovery, including whether he will see the football field again this season.
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