Week 5 Injury Report: Big Ben Does It Again

By: Zach Jacobson

No, I'm not talking about Ben forcing a young lady into an unpleasant situation, I'm talking about him disappointing fantasy owners everywhere.  He's not the only player that went down this weekend.  Let's catch you up.

The Injuries

Ben Roethlisberger:  Before this week Roethlisberger was the 25th QB (ESPN standard scoring), and his measly 7 points in week 4 didn't help.  Injuring his ankle on the Steeler's final drive of the game, Roethlisberger walked out of the locker room afterward on crutches with the foot in a protective boot.  He really wasn't startable before, but this injury puts his week 5 status in question.  Charlie Batch would probably get the nod next weekend if Big Ben can't play, but unless you're really struggling at QB you should have better options.

Rashard Mendenhall: Ahh, the man with the fish eyes.  I'm sorry Steeler fans, that was rude, but to be fair your team is going to miss the playoffs.  Mendy tweaked his hamstring, and if we've learned anything this season it's that hamstring injuries can be tricky (see Foster, Arian).  The fortunate news is that the way Mendenhall has been playing, backup Isaac Redman can't be any worse for your fantasy team.  With a flow of injuries and bye weeks right now Redman is looking like a viable flex option.

Danny Woodhead:  My personal favorite of this bunch, Woodhead's injury opens up limitless possibilities for my man Stevan Ridley.  Right now Danny W. is listed as week-to-week, and with how unimpressive Green-Ellis is Ridley may become the pickup of the week.  It wouldn't be hard to imagine him as the Patriots leading rusher this season.

Andre Johnson:  A.J. felt left out so he decided to injure his hammy as well.  The difference is that Johnson will miss 3+ weeks, and his injury opens up more possibilities.  I think this makes Jacoby Jones a must add for your bench, and we could see Owen Daniels get more involved as well.  I saw Ben Tate was being dropped in some leagues after Foster's return, but the lack of a big target could lead to more carries for both runningbacks.

The Replacements

Good to Go:  Isaac Redman, Stevan Ridley, Jacoby Jones, Ben Tate

Stay AWAY:  Charlie Batch

Look for this article on Mondays or Wednesdays, or if you want to see my other work check me out at ReclinerQB.com's Fantasy Corner.  Christian is featured there every Tuesday.

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