News: There's optimism for Hakeem Nicks to be ready for the start of the season but the New York Daily News reports the receiver hasn't run routes that require cutting yet and might not for a while. Nicks is coming back from knee and foot injuries and did participate in the team's recent offseason workouts. "Just from past experience, I am being cautious," Nicks said. "I'm not taking it slow, but I'm taking it easy."
Analysis: Nicks seemingly rushed back from a broken bone in his foot last May and it cost him as he played through those injuries and his stats suffered. This time the rest might do him some good although if he's not running all of his routes by training camp then there could be some concern. Nicks had 53 catches for 692 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games, a pretty miserable stat line when you consider 199 of those yards and one of those three touchdowns came in the same game. He had 77 yards or less in every other game. Staying healthy has been a problem for Nicks, who has missed nine games over his career and has yet to play all 16 games in a season. If you draft Nicks, do it with him being no better than your No. 2 option.
News: Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks spoke with the media Thursday and said he plans to be full-go by training camp. He had a "minor procedure" on his knee this offseason and feels great. He worked out with Eli Manning in North Carolina before participating in the team's minicamp this week. When it was mentioned that 2013 was the final year of his contract, Nicks said "It's gonna be a big one," according to Newsday.
Analysis: Nicks had 53 catches for 692 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games, a pretty miserable stat line when you consider 199 of those yards and one of those three touchdowns came in the same game. He had 77 yards or less in every other game. Staying healthy has been a problem for Nicks, who has missed nine games over his career and has yet to play all 16 games. If you draft Nicks, do it with him being no better than your No. 2 option and prepare to be without him for at least a couple of weeks throughout the season.
News: The New York Daily News reports that Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks, who is recovering from offseason arthroscopic knee surgery, took part in Day 1 of the Giants’ offseason workout program Monday morning. He also was one of three receivers to join Eli Manning for workouts last week at Duke University. Nicks, who said his knee felt “good” and he had no setbacks as he took his first steps towards a healthier 2013. “We got some good work in,” Nicks said. “It was good for me to just get my feet back up under me a little bit and it was my first time running routes with Eli. So it was good. I feel good. There weren’t any setbacks. I kept it simple because it was my first time running routes. I wasn’t about to go out there and – it’s still early right now. So my biggest thing is that I want my presence to be felt there with Eli, because it is something that I do week-to-week. We’re on the same page.”
Analysis: Nicks said he has been running for a “couple of weeks” now and is well on his way to putting last year’s disappointment – 53 catches for 692 yards and three touchdowns in 13 games – in the past. If he's able to rebound at 100 percent then Nicks can return as a must-start Fantasy option, but he has to prove he can stay healthy, which has been a problem his entire career. We view Nicks as a high-end No. 3 Fantasy receiver. His value might improve to be a No. 2 option by Draft Day, but plan on drafting Nicks with a mid-round pick and hope he doesn't suffer any setbacks with his knee.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks plans to be ready to go full speed for the start of the offseason program, according to quarterback Eli Manning. "Hakeem is doing well. Talked to him the other day, and he’s training and getting ready, and he’ll be ready when we start the spring," Manning said. "He’ll be full go and running, so that’s good."
Analysis: We hope Nicks can return at 100 percent in 2013 because talent-wise he could be a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. We view him as a low-end No. 2 option heading into the year because of his injury concerns, but he has to prove he can stay healthy. Plan on drafting him with a mid-round pick, and hopefully he can play close to 16 games in 2013.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks had what is believed to be an arthroscopic surgery already this offseason, according to head coach Tom Coughlin, who disclosed the news Friday at the NFL combine. It is not known where the surgery took place but it's assumed it was on his knee. Also, Giants co-owner John Mara said Thursday he hopes to sign Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz to long-term deals. Nicks is due to be an unrestricted free agent after next season. An ESPN report earlier this month said the Giants have prioritized Nicks, their first-round pick in 2009, over Cruz, the former undrafted free agent who posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and set a franchise record for single-season receiving yards in 2011. "I don’t know where that came from; that’s not true at all," Mara said. "They’re both priorities for us."
Analysis: Nicks generally plays the "X" receiver position, the spot most often occupied by a team’s No. 1 receiver, but his explosiveness has been limited by injuries, most recently knee and foot ailments that held him to 692 receiving yards last season. We hope Nicks can return at 100 percent in 2013 because talent-wise he could be a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. We view him as a low-end No. 2 option heading into the year because of his injury concerns, but if this surgery cleaned him up and he's ready to go for training camp his value will rise. He is worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News: ESPN reports that the Giants want to sign receiver Hakeem Nicks to a long-term deal. Nicks, 25, has one year remaining on his contract, but New York would like to tie him to the team long term as it views him as a legitimate No. 1 receiver. Due to injuries to his knee and foot in 2012, Nicks failed to post 1,000 yards receiving for the first time since 2009. Nicks finished third on the Giants with 53 receptions, notching 692 yards and three touchdowns. It was the first time in three seasons that Nicks did not have at least 76 receptions, 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns in a season.
Analysis: We hope Nicks can return at 100 percent in 2013 because talent-wise he could be a Top 10 Fantasy receiver. We view him as a low-end No. 2 option heading into the year because of his injury concerns, but if he's ready to go for training camp his value will rise. He is worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks said Monday he will be examined by doctors in the next week to determine if knee surgery is necessary during the offseason, the New York Daily News reports. Nicks, who said his foot is no longer an issue, was plagued by knee problems throughout the season and sidelined from Weeks 3-5 as a result of the issue. Prior to Week 4, Nicks said doctors told him he needed 6-8 weeks to fully recover from the injury, but the 24-year-old insisted on staying active because he proved to be a fast healer in the past. "It was a situation where I felt like if I was sitting I would have been miserable, so I felt like if I was just out there trying to give it whatever I had, everything would work out," he said.
Analysis: Nicks acknowledged his decision not to rest backfired as he slumped to career lows in yards (692) and touchdowns (three) while averaging 13.1 yards per catch, also the worst mark of his four-year tenure with the Giants. It's unclear how long he would be out if he needs surgery as he would obviously want to be completely healthy this time around. Nicks' down season will likely send him tumbling in Fantasy drafts for 2013 but he could hold tremendous value after the first 3-4 rounds. Keep track of his status throughout the offseason in the hopes he can be fully prepared for training camp next July.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks might have been cleared to play Week 17 vs. Philadelphia after coming into the game as questionable with a knee injury, but he stayed glued to the sideline in a 42-7 rout of the Eagles. Nicks recorded no catches and wasn't even targeted. Rueben Randle started in his place and scored twice for New York.
Analysis: Nicks didn't record a catch in his last two games and it was just a fitting end to a disappointing year for the fourth-year receiver. Nicks was plagued by a knee injury for most of the season and even missed three games early in the season because of the injury. Let's not forget either he was recovering from a foot injury during the preseason as well, so he wasn't 100 percent coming into the year. Nicks is one of those players that is probably grateful to see the offseason since it will give him time to recover and hopefully be healthy heading into next season. Nicks' down campaign in 2012 could mean he drops in drafts next summer, but that could also mean he ends up a Draft Day steal. Nicks' health next summer will dictate his Fantasy value. If he appears healthy, then he could be worth an early-round Fantasy pick. If he is still hobbled, then he might be more of a mid-round pick with upside.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee) is active Week 17 vs. Philadelphia after being listed as questionable on the injury report. Wide receivers average 22 Fantasy points per week against Philadelphia.
Analysis: You know the sob story by now. Nicks has been bothered by injuries all season, which has been a big factor for his down campaign. He was held without a catch Week 16 and has been unreliable for Fantasy owners in 2012. The Giants are in a must-win situation Sunday, but Nicks remains just a low-end Fantasy start.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was a limited participant in practice for the second consecutive day Friday as he continues to fight off a knee injury. Nicks is labeled as questionable for Sunday's pivotal regular season finale at home against the Eagles. Nicks was targeted three times but held without a reception in Week 16 against the Ravens. He was not able to suit up in the team's previous meeting against the Eagles in Week 4.
Analysis: Nicks has been involved in practice for two straight days after resting Wednesday, which may suggest that he'll be healthy enough to play come Sunday. The fourth-year receiver has been hobbled by injury and has lacked the big-play ability he built his reputation on in the past. Nicks was only targeted three times in Week 16 against the Ravens, so Fantasy owners might be looking at a diminished output, even if Nicks is able to play through the injury. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 22 Fantasy points per game this season. Fantasy owners should consider him as a risky start in the majority of formats heading into the final week of the regular season.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was back on the practice field Thursday, after sitting out Wednesday’s session due to a knee injury. Nicks had his left knee heavily wrapped, but was at least able to take part in a limited capacity. The Giants are preparing for the season finale in Week 17 against the Eagles.
Analysis: Nicks has said this injury might require surgery in the offseason, so it is no surprise that he is not able to give his all in practice at this point. He will still try to play through it as the Giants are fighting desperately for a playoff spot. Nicks was only targeted three times in Week 16 against the Ravens, so Fantasy owners might be looking at a diminished output, even if Nicks is able to play through the injury. Consider him a risky start at this time, and re-evaluate his status throughout the week before determining whether to start him in your Fantasy leagues in Week 17.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks did not practice Wednesday and may be a question mark to play in the Week 17 regular-season finale against the Eagles Sunday, reports the Newark Star-Ledger. Nicks said he isn't sure yet if he'll play against Philadelphia due to his lingering knee issue. Nicks' knee may also need offseason surgery, but the receiver said he'd attempt resting it before he went that route.
Analysis: Nicks was only targeted three times last week at Baltimore as he failed to come down with a catch. If he's going to be playing at 60-70 percent health, he's doing the Giants a disservice just being in there. Perhaps he's come to realize that. Nicks is a big question to play Sunday now and that may be enough for Fantasy owners to find more reliable options. He's been solid this year, when healthy, and a healthy Nicks would be worth starting in most formats against the Eagles.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held without a reception in Week 16's 33-14 loss to the Ravens. He was targeted three times.
Analysis: This was the worst performance of the season for Nicks, and it knocks him way down the reliability scale, as it was his second disappointing game in a row and third game of four or fewer points in his last five. Nicks has been battling foot and knee problems most of the year, so he should at least be applauded for playing through obvious pain, but he isn't doing much to help Fantasy owners over the last two weeks -- although, to be fair, the Giants have faced two tough defenses in the games. He should be considered a flex option, at best, heading into Week 17 against the Eagles.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 16 at Baltimore as he continues to overcome a troublesome knee issue. Nicks was a limited participant in practice over the past two days after resting Wednesday in attempt to keep his ailing knee fresh for gameday. He has two touchdowns in his last four games, but has been a rather erratic Fantasy producer over that span, with two games of four Fantasy points and one each of 12 and 13 points.
Analysis: Nicks has been hobbled by foot and knee issues all season and coach Tom Coughlin has admitted that Nicks will probably finish out the year at under 100 percent, health-wise. So one has to weigh Nicks' play-making ability and end zone targeting against his injury and the up-and-down play of Eli Manning. The Ravens have allowed an average of 28.5 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts over the last two games, giving up three touchdowns in that span to wide receivers. Fantasy owners should still view Nicks as a viable option in most formats for Week 16 based on his big-play potential.
News: Much has been made about Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks' down campaign. The fourth-year receiver has been hobbled by injury and has lacked the big-play ability he built his reputation on in the past. Although, Nicks doesn't seem down heading into his team's Week 16 showdown at Baltimore and feels his rapport with quarterback Eli Manning is building as the Giants' need a late-season push to make the playoffs. "I feel like we just off by a hair, but I feel like that’s about to change," Nicks said. The Ravens have allowed an average of 28.5 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts over the last two games, giving up three touchdowns in that span to wide receivers.
Analysis: Nicks has two touchdowns in his last four games, but has been a rather erratic Fantasy producer over that span, with two games of four Fantasy points and one each of 12 and 13 points. Nicks was close to having a bigger Week 15 against the Falcons (three catches for 40 yards), but just missed a would-be 80-yard touchdown bomb thanks to a Manning overthrow. We have seen multiple times this season where Nicks and Manning have been slightly off or else a big play would have been produced. It's nice Nicks is confident heading into Week 16, but he is still more of a low-end Fantasy starter because he has been unreliable.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has two touchdowns in his last four games, but has been a rather erratic Fantasy producer over that span, with two games of four Fantasy points and one each of 12 and 13 points. Nicks was close to having a bigger Week 15 against the Falcons (three catches for 40 yards), but just missed a would-be 80-yard touchdown bomb thanks to an Eli Manning overthrow.
Analysis: The Giants face the Ravens in Week 16, a team neither excellent or terrible against wide receivers. But the Ravens have allowed an average of 28.5 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts over the last two games, giving up three touchdowns in that span to wide receivers. Nicks has been hobbled by foot and knee issues all season and coach Tom Coughlin has admitted that Nicks will probably finish out the year at under 100 percent, health-wise. So one has to weigh Nicks' playmaking ability and end zone targeting against his injury and the up-and-down play of Eli Manning. At the end of the day, Nicks ends up being somewhere between WR2 and a flex option in most formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held to three catches for 40 yards Week 15 at Atlanta. Nicks' longest catch went 24 yards and he was targeted a team-high seven times. One of those failed targets could have resulted in an 80-yard touchdown on the Giants' third drive, but quarterback Eli Manning slightly overthrew Nicks on a deep pass after Nicks got past two defenders.
Analysis: The Giants tried their best Week 15 to get Nicks involved on offense, but they couldn't connect for many big plays. You can definitely tell Nicks has lost a step because of his injury issues in 2012, particularly the lingering knee injury that limits his practice reps. Giants coach Tom Coughlin has already said he expects Nicks to be less than 100 percent the rest of the season and that's disappointing news for Fantasy owners. Consider Nicks a low-end Fantasy start heading into Week 16 at Baltimore.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (knee) is active and starting Week 15 at Atlanta. He was listed as probable on the injury report. Wide receivers average 152.2 receiving yards and 17.6 Fantasy points per week against Atlanta, which is the sixth-lowest average in the league. Wide receivers also have just six touchdowns against the Falcons and none in the last four games.
Analysis: Nicks has found the end zone two times in the last three games and has 14 catches for 187 yards during that span. The Giants aren't expecting Nicks to be 100 percent the rest of the season, but as long as he is healthy enough to play, then he will be in the lineup. Fantasy owners should just temper expectations when starting Nicks.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was able to practice on a limited basis for the second straight day Friday and is being considered as probable for Week 15 against the Falcons. He missed practice earlier in the week due to a lingering knee issue. Wide receivers average 152.2 receiving yards and 17.6 Fantasy points per week against Atlanta, which is the sixth-lowest average in the league. Wide receivers also have just six touchdowns against the Falcons and none in the last four games.
Analysis: Nicks has found the end zone two times in the last three games and has 14 catches for 187 yards during that span. Coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday the team will have to "slow down" with their handling of veteran receiver and also said earlier in the week Nicks won't have the "opportunity to play without issues," so expect him to miss practice time the rest of the season and likely be less than 100 percent come game day. In his last eight games, Nicks is averaging 51.9 receiving yards so consider him more of a low-end Fantasy starter Week 15.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who continues to be hobbled by a lingering knee injury, returned to the practice field Thursday as the team prepares for Week 15 at Atlanta. Wide receivers average 152.2 receiving yards and 17.6 Fantasy points per week, which is the sixth-lowest average in the league. Wide receivers also have just six touchdowns against Atlanta and none in the last four games.
Analysis: It's good to see Nicks on the practice field after coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday the team will have to "slow down" with their handling of veteran receiver. Coughlin also said earlier in the week Nicks won't have the "opportunity to play without issues," so expect him to miss practice time the rest of the season and likely be less than 100 percent come game day. In his last eight games, Nicks is averaging 51.9 receiving yards and has two touchdowns in that span. Consider him more of a low-end Fantasy starter Week 15.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday the team will have to "slow down" with their handling of veteran receiver Hakeem Nicks, who continues to be bothered by a lingering knee injury. Coughlin said Nicks won't practice until later in the week. The Giants are preparing to hit the road Week 15 to play Atlanta. Wide receivers average 152.2 receiving yards and 17.6 Fantasy points per week, which is the sixth-lowest average in the league. Wide receivers also have just six touchdowns against Atlanta and none in the last four games.
Analysis: Coughlin said Monday Nicks probably won't have the "opportunity" this season "to play without issues" regarding his knee injury. That's clearly disappointing news. Nicks hasn't surpassed 100 receiving yards since Week 2 against the Bucs, when he managed 199 receiving yards, and he began to have knee problems shortly after. Nicks would miss three straight games and hasn't been the same receiver since. In his last eight games, Nicks is averaging 51.9 receiving yards and has two touchdowns in that span. Nicks was started in 85 percent of Fantasy leagues Week 14 vs. New Orleans. He did finish with 12 Fantasy points (standard), but owners have to keep expectations in check down the stretch since it appears Nicks won't be 100 percent.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin seemed pretty dejected Monday when talking about wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who continues to be hobbled by a knee injury. "I don’t know what all right means. He’s sore. He’s still (got) the issues with the knee," Coughlin said. "I wish he would have an opportunity to play without issues, but that's not going to be the case this year."
Analysis: Nicks hasn't surpassed 100 receiving yards since Week 2 against the Bucs, when he managed 199 receiving yards. But that's when he began to have knee problems. Nicks would then miss three straight games and hasn't been the same receiver he has been the previous two seasons. In his last eight games, Nicks is averaging 51.9 receiving yards and has two touchdowns in that span. Nicks was started in 85 percent of Fantasy leagues Week 14 vs. New Orleans. He did finish with 12 Fantasy points (standard), but owners have to keep expectations in check down the stretch since it appears Nicks won't be 100 percent.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks finished with four catches for 67 yards and a touchdown during New York's 52-27 throttling of New Orleans in Week 14. Nicks was one of four different Giants receivers to haul in a touchdown pass as he connected with Eli Manning on a 25-yard strike in the third quarter. It was his second score in the past three games and gave him three total touchdowns on the season. He recorded six total targets from Manning as Victor Cruz paced the team with eight receptions for 121 yards on nine looks.
Analysis: Throughout the weekend, Nicks' status was closely monitored after he was limited in practice with a lingering knee issue that landed him as questionable on the injury report. But he showed no issues with the knee on Sunday and X-rays after the game revealed no problems, according to USA Today. Nicks' sturdy average of 16.8 yards per catch marked his second-highest output of the season and he will continue to serve as a strong threat for the Giants. As long as he's healthy, he should be viewed as a high-end Fantasy option in all formats for Week 15 at Atlanta.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is active for Week 14 against New Orleans after nursing a lingering knee issue in practice last week. Nicks was listed as questionable on the team's injury report, but reports earlier Sunday indicated he would play. He will face a Saints defense that owns the NFL's 30th-ranked pass defense (286.7 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Nicks has reached the end zone only once over the past seven games and has just two total touchdowns on the season. Nicks has surpassed 50 yards three times in that span as he's failed to eclipse the century mark since Week 2 against Tampa Bay. But he lines up for a favorable matchup Sunday as he has 12 catches for 201 yards and a touchdown in his past two games against the Saints. Consider him a viable option in most Fantasy formats for Week 14.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is expected to play through a lingering knee issue during Week 14 against New Orleans, CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports. ESPN also confirmed that he will play Sunday. Nicks is currently listed as questionable on the team's injury report after missing practice last Thursday because of a sore knee. Coach Tom Coughlin said last week that he is hopeful Nicks will be able to play. The Saints owns the NFL's 30th-ranked pass defense (286.7 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Nicks has been able to remain on the field for the last seven games, but his production has been sporadic in that stretch. He has reached the end zone only once and has just two total touchdowns on the season. Nicks has surpassed 50 yards three times as he's failed to eclipse the century mark since Week 2 against Tampa Bay. But he lines up for a favorable matchup Sunday as he has 12 catches for 201 yards and a touchdown in his past two games against the Saints. Despite the Giants kicking off in the second wave of games Sunday, Fantasy owners shouldn't fret about Nicks' status as he continues to receive positive outlooks. Consider him a viable option in most Fantasy formats for Week 14 as he appears likely to suit up.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks returned to practice Friday after missing Thursday's session with lingering knee soreness, the New York Daily News reports. Nicks, who has been hampered by knee and foot issues throughout the season, was able to participate in agility drills at normal speed Friday. He was officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 14 against New Orleans, but coach Tom Coughlin said Thursday that he is hopeful Nicks will be able to play. The Saints owns the league's 30th-ranked pass defense (286.7 yards allowed per game).
Analysis: Nicks has been able to remain on the field for the last seven games, but his production has been sporadic in that stretch. He has reached the end zone only once and has just two total touchdowns on the season. Nicks has surpassed 50 yards three times as he's failed to eclipse the century mark since Week 2 against Tampa Bay. But he lines up for a favorable matchup Sunday as he has 12 catches for 201 yards and a touchdown in his past two games against the Saints. Consider him a viable option in most Fantasy formats for Week 14 as long as he remains active.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said wide receiver Hakeem Nicks didn't practice Thursday because of a sore knee. Coughlin said it's the same knee that has given him problems this season. "Hopefully it will subside, and he'll be ready to go," Coughlin said. The Giants host the Saints Week 14.
Analysis: You never want to hear a coach say the word, "hopefully." It presents doubt in a given situation, and with Nicks that means his availability Week 14. If he returns to practice Friday, then our worries will be calmed. If he sits out, then time to sound the alarm. This is a bad time for Nicks to have a setback with his lingering knee injury. The Saints are yielding 25.2 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, which is the third-highest average in the NFL. We are expecting a productive week from Nicks if he plays, so keep tabs on his progress.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was only able to come up with half of the passes thrown his way in Week 13 against the Redskins. He was targeted a team-high 10 times by quarterback Eli Manning, posting five catches for 43 yards in the 17-16 loss. Nicks was held to 15 yards on two grabs in the first half and while he was more productive after halftime, Washington made a concerted effort to limit the 24-year-old. Nicks finished third on New York in receiving behind Victor Cruz (104 yards) and Martellus Bennet (82 yards) in the defeat.
Analysis: Nicks had been trending up in Fantasy in recent weeks and while he had a decent performance Monday night, it was nothing to write home about. Injuries have limited him thus far and he is on pace to finish with fewer than 1,000 yards receiving for the first time since his rookie campaign. Despite the down year, Nicks remains a candidate to breakout at any point and has a favorable matchup in the Saints up next on the schedule. New Orleans has allowed an average of over 185 yards receiving to wideouts thus far so continue to view Nicks as a solid option in most Fantasy formats for Week 14.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks scored his first touchdown since Week 2 his last time out and will be looking to find the end zone again Sunday against the Redskins. Washington enters Week 13 ranked 31st in the league in pass defense, giving up over 301 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 28.1 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts, which is worst in the NFL. When the division foes met earlier in the year, Nicks caught five passes for 53 yards.
Analysis: Nicks had been slowed by foot and knee injuries for much of the season but the bye week helped him get healthy as he had his best performance since Week 2 last Sunday. He looked more explosive in the win over the Packers and appears primed for a solid run down the stretch. Nicks caught 12 passes for 195 yards in two games against the Redskins last season and has proven to be a favorite target of quarterback Eli Manning when at his best. Plan on keeping the 24-year-old active in all Fantasy formats for Week 13, especially since Washington has surrendered 13 touchdowns to wideouts thus far.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks continued his recent success with another quality performance as he got back in the end zone for his second touchdown of the season against the Packers in Week 12. Eli Manning found Nicks for a short pass as he turned it up the field and stretched out for a 13-yard touchdown in the third quarter. He finished with a team-high five catches for 77 yards in a 38-10 victory.
Analysis: Nicks seems as if he is starting to hit his stride as he has racked up 70-plus yards receiving in back-to-back games after being held under 55 yards in each of his previous four games. He has 41 catches for 542 yards and two touchdowns through his first 11 games and is significantly behind last season's pace where he had a career high 1,192 yards and seven touchdowns. He'll try to keep it going at Washington next week. The Redskins have allowed 13 touchdowns to wide receivers through 11 games this season. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a viable option in most formats heading into Week 13.
News: The New York Post reports Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks said he feels better now than he has at any time this season and said the Week 11 bye helped him "regroup." Nicks has been hobbled by foot and knee injuries all season. "Most of all you look at a bye week and you get a chance to rest but most of all you get to regroup in your mind,'' Nicks said. "I think you need that sometimes, get away, your mind, come back and elevate your game a little bit and get that confidence back, like a fresh new start.'' Nicks said he is "pretty close" to 100 percent and the next step is for him to increase his yards after catch. "Early in the season, I was kind of hindered a little bit because I couldn’t really catch and burst due to the knee and the foot," Nicks said, per The Star-Ledger. "Or just not trusting it to make a solid plant on it at full speed or stuff like that. But I think with this time off, and with the schedule we've got, I’m ready to get after that."
Analysis: It seems Nicks is ready to wipe the slate clean after a tumultuous 2 1/2 months that featured just one 100-yard game, one touchdown and three games missed due to injuries. Let's hope he is ready to back up his talk since Fantasy owners rely on Nicks to be a steady option when healthy. He had a good performance before the bye, totaling nine catches for 75 yards in a loss at Cincinnati. Perhaps he can build off that and the added rest heading into Week 12 vs. Green Bay. Fantasy owners should consider Nicks a viable Fantasy option Week 12.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks had nearly as many catches Week 10 at Cincinnati as he had in his previous three games. Nicks finished with a team-high nine catches for 75 yards in 31-13 loss. In his previous three games, Nicks managed 10 catches for 109 yards. Unfortunately, his touchdown drought reached five games Sunday. He was targeted a team-high 14 times Sunday.
Analysis: It wasn't a stellar performance, but at least it's progress for Nicks, who has been slowed this season by multiple injuries. Perhaps the Week 11 bye is coming at an ideal time for the fourth-year receiver. He can rest up and hopefully he will be able to build off Sunday's outing down the stretch. Despite a less-than-stellar campaign, Nicks is still a viable Fantasy receiver. The Giants are back in action Week 12 vs. Green Bay.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is active Week 10 at Cincinnati after being listed as probable on the injury report. Nicks missed a practice this week because of swelling in his knee. The Bengals are yielding 153.1 receiving yards and 20.5 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, who have totaled six touchdowns against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Despite the minor setback this week, Nicks said he was never in danger of missing Sunday's game. However, he has been missing in action lately. His numbers have been very weak and that has hurt Fantasy owners. We know Nicks has must-start potential, but these injuries have slowed him down. Nicks is still a startable Fantasy option, but perhaps it's best to temper expectations until he heats up offensively.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 10 at Cincinnati due to a lingering knee issue. Nicks participated in practice for the second straight day Friday after sitting out Wednesday with a swollen knee. But the 24-year-old was quick to point out his absence was not the result of a setback. "(Wednesday) was just taking a day off," Nicks told The Star-Ledger. "It was still a little swollen, a little puffy from the game like it always is after the game. This time it was just a little bit more puffy, so they wanted to sit me down for a day."
Analysis: Nicks said he never considered sitting out Sunday's game, the Giants' last contest before their bye in Week 11. Despite a disappointing season statistically, Nicks said he is not worried about his numbers and is expressed confidence he will be able to return to his usual sterling production. He has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard campaigns, but has just 27 catches for 390 yards this year. "It might be this game, you never know," he said. "It’s coming, though. I feel myself getting better, trusting myself a little bit more each game." Fantasy owners should consider Nicks a quality starting option in most formats for Week 10 against a Bengals defense that is allowing an average of 20.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts.
News:The Star-Ledger reports Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who sat out practice Wednesday because his knee swelled up, took the the practice field Thursday. He had his left knee heavily wrapped, but he participated in the walk-through with the offense and ran routes in one-on-one drills. Nicks said the swelling in his knee is gone and he intends to play Sunday. The Giants travel to Cincinnati in Week 10. The Bengals are yielding 153.1 receiving yards and 20.5 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, who have totaled six touchdowns against Cincinnati.
Analysis: You have to be encouraged Nicks participated in Thursday's walk-through. It seems he is preparing to play Sunday, but if he isn't good enough health-wise, then there is always the chance he sits. Nicks' injury issues in 2012 has contributed to his recent struggles. He was held to one catch Week 9 and is certainly not a slam-dunk Fantasy start heading into Week 10. He has just 13 catches for 153 yards and no touchdowns in his last four games. Fantasy owners might consider using healthier alternatives since the risk could be higher than the reward.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held out of practice Wednesday because his knee swelled up. The Giants travel to Cincinnati in Week 10. The Bengals are yielding 153.1 receiving yards and 20.5 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, who have totaled six touchdowns against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Nicks has been hobbled by knee and foot injuries all season, which has contributed to his struggles. The fact he is still having knee issues is not comforting, especially since Nicks is coming off a one-catch outing Week 9. Prior to Week 9, Nicks told USA Today, "One of these days I'll emerge and then I'll be back." Well, that wasn't Sunday against the Steelers. Will it be Week 10 against the Bengals? As of now, it's anyone's guess. Fantasy owners don't want to take Nicks out of their lineup because they don't want to miss a big game from the fourth-year receiver, but his production lately has been sickening. He has just 13 catches for 153 yards and no touchdowns in his last four games. Now we have news of Nicks potentially not being 100 percent Sunday, so Fantasy owners might consider using healthier alternatives since the risk could be higher than the reward.
News: The frustration for the Giants' offense culminated Sunday against the Steelers when the passing game managed just 125 yards, which included one catch for 10 yards from wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who has been hobbled by injuries all year. “Offensively, we just gotta get it going again,” Nicks said, per the New York Daily News. “Personally I feel like we’ve been lacking a little bit on offense.” Nicks said teams have begun to adjust defensively after the Giants shattered team passing records in 2011. “Once you’re excelling so much offensively, teams are going to start scheming to try to stop what you do,” Nicks said. “We just got to look at that film and start critiquing ourselves and start doing some things differently.”
Analysis: Prior to Week 9, Nicks told USA Today, "One of these days I'll emerge and then I'll be back." Well, that wasn't Sunday against the Steelers. Will it be Week 10 against the Bengals? As of now, it's anyone's guess. Nicks is no longer on the injury report, but he just doesn't look like his normal self on the football field. You have to wonder if his timing is still off. Fantasy owners don't want to take Nicks out of their lineup because they don't want to miss a big game from the fourth-year receiver, but his production lately has been sickening. He has just 13 catches for 153 yards and no touchdowns in his last four games. The Bengals are yielding 153.1 receiving yards and 20.5 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, who have totaled six touchdowns against Cincinnati. Unless you have a better option, then you should roll with Nicks and hope this is the week he re-emerges.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks did not look himself in the Week 9 loss to the Steelers Sunday. The New York passing game struggled in general, but Eli Manning targeted Nicks four times and he only came down with one reception. Nicks' catch went for just 10 yards and he did not score in the game.
Analysis: Nicks didn't make his one and only catch until late in the Week 9 game and the Giants passing game has begun to sputter. Nicks has been underwhelming in Fantasy play in four straight outings and was inactive due to injury in the three games prior to that. In fact, Nicks' last solid Fantasy performance was back in Week 2 against Tampa Bay when he caught 10 passes for 199 yards and a touchdown. He could easily break out Week 10 at Cincinnati, however, so Fantasy owners should still consider him a viable option.
News: New York wide receiver Hakeem Nicks will have dance partner Victor Cruz healthy and on the other side of the field for the Week 9 game at home against Pittsburgh Sunday. Nicks returns home after struggling last week with four catches for 46 tards. In his last two games at home, Nicks has 15 catches for 252 yards with a touchdown for an average of 126 yards per game. Before being inactive for three weeks, Nicks had 10 catches for 199 yards and a TD at home Week 2 against Tampa Bay. That said, the Steelers pose a stiffer test than did the Bucs or the Redskins, his last two home opponents.
Analysis: Nicks faces a Pittsburgh team that has been solid against receivers all season since giving up their only 100-yard game to Demaryius Thomas Week 1. They haven't given up more than 71 yards to any receiver since that Week 1 game so Nicks will have his work cut out for him. Nicks hasn't scored a touchdown in his last three games and hasn't topped 53 yards over that span. Still, he is the type of receiver who can blow up for a huge game at any moment and he remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats for the Week 9 game on Sunday.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held out of the end zone for the third consecutive game in Week 8 against the Cowboys. After gaining rave reviews about his explosiveness leading up to Sunday's contest, he finished with four catches for 46 yards in the 29-24 win. Nicks had a long reception of 29 and averaged 11.5 yards per grab. Nicks, who was targeted seven times, finished second on New York in receiving behind Rueben Randle (68 yards) in the victory.
Analysis: Nicks has been pretty disappointing since returning from injury as he has just 12 catches for 143 yards in four games. While the Giants struggled as a while on offense Sunday, the 24-year-old continues to be a mediocre option in Fantasy. It looks as though his injury is behind him, however, so owners should expect better production in the coming weeks. Hopefully Nicks will be able to get back on track in Week 9 against the Steelers so based on his potential, continue to view him as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has been ruled active for Week 8 against the Cowboys. He was a full participant in practice leading up to Sunday and suffered no setbacks to his knee or foot. Dallas ranks third in the league in pass defense, giving up under 188 yards per game, and has held opposing wideout to an average of just 16.7 Fantasy points.
Analysis: Nicks has caught just eight passes for 97 yards over the last two games but appears to be getting healthier with each passing week. There were rave reviews about his explosiveness leading up to Sunday's contest so hopefully he is on the verge of turning things around. Nicks gained 38 yards on four catches against the Giants in Week 1 but has four career touchdowns against the division foe. Since he is active, consider Nicks a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 8.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was able to make it through practice Friday without suffering a setback in his sore knee and foot, and he is considered probable for Week 8 against the Cowboys. Reports out of practice during the week indicate that Nicks seems to have regained his lost burst, and he was not limited at any point during the week in practice.
Analysis: Nicks is set to play in his third game in a row, after missing three straight. He has been limited to eight catches for 97 yards over the previous two games. This will be his second matchup with the Cowboys, and he had a hard time finding much room to work in a Week 1 loss. Nicks managed just four catches for 38 yards in the previous matchup. Dallas ranks third in the league in pass defense, giving up under 188 yards per game, and has held opposing wideouts to an average of just 16.7 Fantasy points per game. Nicks seems to have put his injury issues behind him, so consider him a viable Fantasy start in most formats.
News: After Giants coach Tom Coughlin issued an encouraging report Monday about wide receiver Hakeem Nicks' recovery from lingering foot and knee injuries, it was quarterback Eli Manning's turn to boast Nicks' progress Wednesday. Nicks practiced in full as the team prepares for Week 8 at Dallas. "I saw just a different burst, running differently, so I think he’s getting more confident and trusting everything and feeling better, that’s always good for us,'' Manning said, per the New York Post. Nicks is also happy with his progress. “I’m a lot healthier now, especially over the last couple weeks,” Nicks said. "I feel like my body’s feeling good again.” In two career games at Dallas, Nicks has 17 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns. “Personally, I like playing in the stadium,” Nicks said. “I don’t know what it is. It just seems like it’s a big stage to play on. I love big-stage games.”
Analysis: Nicks has played the last two games after missing three straight. However, he has just eight catches for 97 yards and no touchdowns since returning Week 6, which is clearly disappointing for Fantasy owners. Nicks was targeted 10 times Sunday against the Redskins, so the Giants are trying to get him heavily involved again. The fact he practiced in full and Manning raved about Nicks is a very good sign heading into Sunday's NFC East showdown with the Cowboys. Dallas ranks third in the league in pass defense, giving up under 188 yards per game, and has held opposing wideout to an average of just 16.7 Fantasy points. Nicks was held to four catches for 38 yards Week 1 vs. Dallas, but he remains a viable Fantasy start.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Monday wide receiver Hakeem Nicks came out of Sunday's game against the Redskins unscathed and is getting more like himself each week. Nicks remains on the injury report because of lingering foot and knee injuries, but he has played the last two games after missing three straight. However, he has just eight catches for 97 yards and no touchdowns since returning Week 6. "I think he gets a little bit better each week,'' Coughlin said, per the New York Post. "I think he’s mentally better, but I don’t know that he’s always physically able to do the things he really wants to do or we want him to do. He seemed to come out of it okay.''
Analysis: Nicks was targeted 10 times Sunday against the Redskins, but he still looked a little sluggish and lacked explosiveness to blow past the Washington secondary. He did practice every day last week for the first time this season, so that is certainly encouraging. And quarterback Eli Manning is clearly looking to get one of his best receivers involved on offense. Hopefully, Nicks will be back to normal sooner rather than later, but there could be some risk to starting him Week 8 at Dallas. Nicks was held to four catches for 38 yards Week 1 vs. Dallas.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks had a relatively quiet day Week 7 vs. Washington. Nicks finished with 53 yards on five catches, with his longest reception going 21 yards. He was targeted 10 times, which was one behind Victor Cruz's team-high 11 targets. Nicks almost had an 8-yard touchdown catch in the first half, but he was stopped at the 1-yard line after a 7-yard gain.
Analysis: We were really hoping Nicks was in for a big performance Sunday after he practiced every day this week for the first time all season. It was also a very favorable matchup since the Redskins have a weak secondary. You all know by now that Nicks has been hobbled by foot and knee injuries. He has played the last two games after missing three, but he has just eight catches for 97 yards and no touchdowns since returning. We hope the farther Nicks puts these injuries behind him, he will start to return to his old form. New York is at Dallas Week 8. Nicks remains a viable Fantasy starting option, despite having just four catches for 38 yards Week 1 vs. Cowboys.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot, knee) is active and starting Week 7 vs. Washington. He was probable on the injury report.
Analysis: For the first time this season, Nicks practiced every day this week. He said he is improving health-wise and looking to get back on track Week 7. This is a good week for Nicks to be getting back to normalcy. The Redskins are yielding an average of 33.3 Fantasy points per week to receivers, which is the highest average in the NFL. Nicks has totaled 16 catches for 279 yards in four games against Washington, but he has been unable to reach the end zone. Consider him a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot, knee) participated in practice for the third consecutive day Friday as the team prepares for Week 7 against Washington. It was the first time this season Nicks has been active the entire practice week as lingering foot and knee problems have limited him to just three games. "I feel like practicing on it is the start to breaking it back in and getting better. I took that approach this week and got the green light to do it; it’s definitely been getting better," he said. Nicks added he took as many reps this week as he would in a normal practice week. He was officially listed as probable on the team's injury report for Sunday's game against the Redskins, who are permitting an average of 241.2 yards to opposing receivers along with nine touchdowns this season.
Analysis: Nicks appeared to be slowed by the foot injury during Week 6 against San Francisco and mustered just three receptions for 44 yards. Still, the team would not force him into practice drills if he couldn't handle the stress on his foot as he looks to regain his top form when he hauled in 10 passes for 199 yards during the second game of the season. The Redskins are yielding an average of 33.3 Fantasy points per week to receivers, which is the highest average in the NFL so Nicks could be in line for a bounce-back outing. Nicks has totaled 16 catches for 279 yards in four games against Washington, but he has been unable to reach the end zone. There is still some uncertainty with Nicks, but he's worth starting in the majority of Fantasy formats for Week 7.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who has been hobbled by foot and knee injuries, was able to practice for a second straight day Thursday. Wednesday was the first time Nicks practiced on a Wednesday this season. It appears he will play in a second straight game Week 7 vs. Washington.
Analysis: Nicks returned to action Week 6 against the Niners after missing a few games, but he managed just three catches for 44 yards and looked sluggish. But the fact Nicks is practicing on consecutive days means maybe he will be a bigger factor heading into Week 7. We sure hope so because it's a favorable matchup. The Redskins are yielding 33.3 Fantasy points per week to receivers, which is the highest average in the NFL. Receivers are also averaging 241.2 receiving yards and have totaled nine touchdowns against Washington. Nicks has good history against Washington, totaling 16 catches for 279 yards in four games. Though, he has no touchdowns. There is still some uncertainty with Nicks, but we feel he is worth the gamble this week as long as he avoids a setback.
News: There was a rare sighting at Giants' practice Wednesday -- wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was on the practice field. Nicks has been limited during practice to begin the season because of knee and foot injuries and usually doesn't practice until Thursday at the earliest. The Star-Ledger reports it was the first time Nicks practiced on a Wednesday this year. Nicks was officially listed as limited. New York hosts Washington Week 7.
Analysis: Nicks returned to action Week 6 against the Niners after missing a few games, but he managed just three catches for 44 yards and looked sluggish. Although, the fact he is practicing on a Wednesday has to be a good sign. Maybe Nicks will be a bigger factor heading into Week 7. We sure hope so because it's a favorable matchup. The Redskins are yielding 33.3 Fantasy points per week to receivers, which is the highest average in the NFL. Receivers are also averaging 241.2 receiving yards and have totaled nine touchdowns against Washington. Nicks has good history against Washington, totaling 16 catches for 279 yards in four games. Though, he has no touchdowns. There is still some uncertainty with Nicks, but we feel he is worth the gamble this week as long as he avoids a setback.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks tallied three catches for 44 yards during New York's 26-3 rout of San Francisco in Week 6. Nicks, who returned to the lineup following a three-game absence because of issues to his knee and foot, was targeted only five times by quarterback Eli Manning. His yardage total and average of 9.5 yards per catch both represented season lows as Domenik Hixon paced the team with 78 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was listed as questionable on the team's injury report, but he might have been better served staying on the sideline for the Giants. The 24-year-old returned to game action for the first time since Sept. 16, however, he appeared to be heavily favoring his foot while running routes and did not appear to be at full speed while chasing down passes from Manning. That resulted in his first YPC average in single digits for the first time since Sept. 25, 2011 at Philadelphia. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on Nicks during the practice week and consider him a quality option for Week 7 against Washington.
News: After missing the past three games with knee and foot issues, Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is active for the Week 6 showdown at San Francisco. Nicks was listed as questionable on the team's injury report after being limited in practice last week. He has not played since Sept. 16 when the the fourth-year wideout tallied 199 yards on 10 catches.
Analysis: In seven games since the calendar flipped to the new year, Nicks has posted 47 receptions for 757 yards (108.1 yards per game) and six touchdowns. The 49ers are allowing an average of the fewest Fantasy points to opposing receivers this season (14.2), but Nicks is still considered a quality option in most formats for Week 6.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, questionable for the Week 6 game at San Francisco Sunday, took another step closer to getting on the field Saturday. The Newark Star-Ledger reports Nicks boarded the plane for San Francisco, a sign he's nearing a return for the Giants against the 49ers. The Giants say he is "cautiously optimistic" about playing as he is recovering from injuries to his foot and knee.
Analysis: Barring an unforeseen setback, it appears Nicks is close to taking the field for the first time since Sept. 16 as the fourth-year wideout has not participated in back-to-back practices since the beginning of the year. If active, Nicks will attempt to prolong a sterling run since the start of 2012. In seven games after the calendar flipped to the new year, he has posted 47 receptions for 757 yards (108.1 yards per game) and six touchdowns. The 49ers are allowing an average of the fewest Fantasy points to opposing receivers this season (14.2), but Nicks is still considered a quality option in most formats for Week 6.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was able to practice for the second straight day Friday as he continues to recover from troublesome injuries to his foot and knee. Nicks, who has missed the past three games because of the issues, reportedly maneuvered around the field without issue as the team prepared for its Week 6 matchup at San Francisco. He was also a limited participant in Thursday's practice and officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Sunday's game. "I feel good about it," Nicks said Friday. "We'll see how I respond in the morning and then they'll let me know."
Analysis: Barring an unforeseen setback, it appears Nicks is close to taking the field for the first time since Sept. 16 as the fourth-year wideout has not participated in back-to-back practices since the beginning of the year. If active, Nicks will attempt to prolong a sterling run since the start of 2012. In seven games after the calendar flipped to the new year, he has posted 47 receptions for 757 yards (108.1 yards per game) and six touchdowns. The 49ers are allowing an average of the fewest Fantasy points to opposing receivers this season (14.2), but Nicks is still considered a quality option in most formats for Week 6.
News: Multiple sources report Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot, knee) returned to practice Thursday. Coach Tom Coughlin said Nicks went through individual drills and he is hopeful he will be limited in practice Friday. "Tomorrow will be the defining day," Nicks said, per New York Daily News. He has missed the last three games. The Giants travel to San Francisco in Week 6.
Analysis: This is obviously an encouraging sign to see Nicks back on the practice field. However, it doesn't guarantee he will play Sunday. The Giants probably want to see how he responds to Thursday's practice. Friday will probably be a big day in regards to Nicks' status for Week 6. Fantasy owners have to continue to track his progress. If active Week 6, then Nicks is back to being a viable Fantasy start.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who has missed three straight games with foot and knee injuries, was unable to return to practice Wednesday. However, coach Tom Coughlin thinks Nicks might be able to practice leading up to Week 6 at San Francisco.
Analysis: Running back Ahmad Bradshaw said on the radio Tuesday Nicks hinted at a Week 6 return. It sounds as though Coughlin is also optimistic, but only time will tell if Nicks does make it back into the lineup. Fantasy owners have to continue to track his progress. If active Week 6, then Nicks is back to being a viable Fantasy start.
News: Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw indicated during a radio interview Tuesday wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is hinting at a return Week 6 at San Francisco. Nicks has missed the last three games with foot and knee injuries. "I think he'll be here this week," Bradshaw said, per The Star-Ledger. "He seemed to give me a hint that he would be. Hakeem will be back and he'll be 100 percent when he does [come back]. He's just being careful and just taking his time. He wants to come back and be that playmaker he's always been with all he can and he doesn't want to come back and be missing game-in, game-out. I think he's just being cautious about it, but I think he'll be fine."
Analysis: While this report is encouraging, it still doesn't mean Nicks will be back Week 6. Coach Tom Coughlin said Monday he wasn't sure about Nicks' status for Week 6, and he is far more of an authority on the matter than Bradshaw. Obviously, this will come down to the medical and coaching staff deciding what is best for the team. Nicks is obviously a viable Fantasy play when healthy. If Nicks is out again Week 6, then Domenik Hixon, Ramses Barden and Rueben Randle could all play a bigger role on offense.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters Monday he isn't sure if wide receiver Hakeem Nicks will return to action Week 6 at San Francisco. He has missed the last three games due to foot and knee injuries.
Analysis: The Giants could sure use Nicks heading into a big showdown with the 49ers, but only time will tell when he makes it back into the lineup. Fantasy owners will have to continue to track his progress. If Nicks is out again Week 6, then Domenik Hixon, Ramses Barden and Rueben Randle could all play a bigger role on offense.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks missed a third straight game Week 5 vs. Cleveland because of foot and knee injuries.
Analysis: The Giants would love nothing more than to have Nicks on the field right now, but he is having major durability issues, so the Giants continue to be cautious. If you own Domenik Hixon, then he is considered a viable Fantasy start Week 5 since he will be replacing Nicks, who is normally a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot, knee) was absent from practice Thursday for a second straight day and afterward coach Tom Coughlin told reporters Nicks would not play Week 5 vs. Cleveland.
Analysis: It's not a surprise Nicks is being held out again. He has yet to practice and the Giants aren't going to risk a long-term setback. Ramses Barden (concussion) is also banged up, so if you are looking to add a Giants' receiver off waivers, then make it Domenik Hixon, who is coming off a stellar performance Week 4 against the Eagles. Nicks is obviously a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, but he can't seem to shake the injury bug right now.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters Wednesday wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot, knee) was held out of practice and he isn't sure if Nicks will practice Thursday. Coughlin said Nicks, who has missed the last two games, looks good walking around, but his knee is still a little swollen. He later told Browns beat writers he doesn't know if Nicks will play Week 5 vs. Cleveland, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. The Browns are yielding 31.5 Fantasy points per week to wide receivers, which is the second-highest average in the NFL.
Analysis: It doesn't look very promising for Nicks to make a return Week 5. This is one of those situations where Fantasy owners need to keep tabs on his progress, but be ready to start a healthier alternative. Ramses Barden (concussion) is also banged up, so if you are looking to add a Giants' receiver off waivers, then make it Domenik Hixon, who is coming off a stellar performance Week 4 against the Eagles. Nicks is obviously a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, but he can't seem to shake the injury bug right now.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Monday that wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has not shown any improvement with his troublesome knee injury, the New York Post reports. Nicks, who is also dealing with a foot issue, has missed the past two games because of injuries and it's unclear if he will return for Week 5 against Cleveland. "Not that I know of," Coughlin said when asked if Nicks' knee was any better. "I won't know until I see what happens, where he's at as we go forward here and analyze him and the doctors get their hands on him again and he communicates with them," Coughlin said.
Analysis: Coughlin admitted he had a great deal of concern for Nicks, who apparently suffered a setback during last Thursday's practice. Nicks was originally listed as doubtful on the injury report for Week 4 after developing swelling in his knee before being downgraded to out on Saturday. His availability in practice this week will be a huge indicator for his availability against the Browns so Fantasy owners should closely monitor his status.
News: As previously reported, Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was not able to suit up for Sunday’s game against the Eagles in Week 4. He did not travel with the team, as a result of foot and knee injuries.
Analysis: Nicks has now missed two games in a row, which is particularly disappointing since he had 10 catches for 199 yards in his last game. Hopefully another week off can help him get healthy, as he will be a high-end start in Week 5 against the Browns, if healthy.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has been downgraded to out for the Week 4 game at Philadelphia, reports NFL.com. Nicks did not travel with the Giants. Nicks had been listed as doubtful, but it seemed he would not be able to return for the game against the Eagles due to his foot and knee injuries.
Analysis: Nicks hasn't been able to get on the field for the Giants since his 10-catch, 199-yard performance against Tampa Bay Week 2. The good news is that Fantasy owners don't need to wait until the last second to find a suitable replacement. Go ahead and start Ramses Barden as he's going to once again have an elevated value. Nicks is an obvious start, when healthy, but should be grounded for Week 4.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was surprisingly listed as doubtful on the team's injury report for Week 4 at Philadelphia as a new ailment has forced him to miss practice time. In addition to his previous foot issue that caused him to sit last Thursday's game, Nicks also has swelling in his knee. Nicks did not participate in practice Friday as New York is keeping him on the practice field only once prior to games. The 24-year-old's previous performance was one of his finest as he racked up 199 yards and a touchdown on 10 receptions against Tampa Bay in Week 2.
Analysis: Well, that was unexpected as Fantasy owners can add a knee issue to Nicks' growing list of setbacks. For a positive spin, the severity of the latest issue is unclear as he was still able to practice on Thursday. But his status remains discouraging for Sunday's outing as he might not return to game action for the second straight week. The Eagles have been burned by wideouts recently as they have allowed an average of 18 Fantasy points per game to the position. Fantasy owners probably consider healthier options for the Week 4 matchup. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com and CBS Sports Network (check local listings).
News: As expected, Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. The Giants travel to play Philadelphia in Week 4.
Analysis: The Giants have said the plan for the foreseeable future is for Nicks, who sat out Week 3, to practice once a week. He sat out Week 3 because of the short turnaround following Week 2. It wasn't because he had a setback. The Giants will see how Nicks reacts following practice Thursday, but he should be back Sunday against the Eagles. If active, Fantasy owners need to get Nicks back into active lineups.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin told reporters Monday wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) is scheduled to practice Thursday. Nicks sat out Week 3 because of a lingering foot injury. Coughlin added Nicks will probably practice once a week for awhile. "I feel a lot better," Nicks said, per the New York Daily News. "The time off definitely helped. There was just too quick of a turnaround (on Thursday night) to go out and compete on it at the high level I expect. (And) I thought it was possible that I would be that much more ready for the Philadelphia game."
Analysis: The Giants were fortunate Week 3 not to miss Nicks' presence. New York got a breakout game from Ramses Barden and it's like the team didn't miss a beat. However, there is no denying the Giants want Nicks in the lineup and will do what is necessary to make that happen. Nicks sat out Week 3 because of the short turnaround. He didn't have a setback with his foot and he should suit up Week 4 against the Eagles, barring any unforeseen circumstances. Fantasy owners will need to keep tabs on his progress, but as long as he suits up Week 4, then Nicks needs to be in Fantasy lineups.
News: As previously announced, Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was unable to take part in Thursday’s game against the Panthers, as a result of a lingering foot injury.
Analysis: Nicks is coming off a huge game in Week 2, so this news certainly came as a disappointment for his Fantasy owners. At least the Giants made the announcement Wednesday, giving plenty of time to find a replacement, so hopefully nobody was left scrambling at the last minute. Nicks will have ample time to heal before the Giants' next game, so hopefully he only has to sit out one game, as he is a must-start Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: The Giants announced disappointing news Wednesday afternoon by announcing wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) did not make the trip to Carolina and has been ruled out for Week 3. He was originally listed as questionable, but Nicks didn't participate in any practices this week nor Wednesday's walk through.
Analysis: This is terrible news for the Giants and Fantasy owners. Nicks was coming off a monster performance Week 2, but he couldn't make the quick turnaround to play Thursday. The Giants realize they need him for the long haul, so resting him for a game early in the season could be beneficial later on. Now that Nicks is out, wide receiver Victor Cruz and tight end Martellus Bennett definitely benefit. Rueben Randle and Ramses Barden will also likely see increased reps with Nicks out.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) is listed as questionable for Week 3 at Carolina. Nicks has appeared on the injury report the first two weeks of the season, but has not missed any playing time as he's displayed no lingering effects of the issue. Nicks is coming off a monster game in Week 2 against Tampa Bay, totaling 10 catches for 199 yards and a touchdown. It was the third time during his four-year career he has recorded 10-plus receptions in a game.
Analysis: Nicks did hobble off the field a few times Week 2 against the Bucs, but he finished out the game and had a big performance. It is a short turnaround Week 3 for the Giants, which is why Nicks is listed as questionable. We are expecting him to play Thursday, but Fantasy owners are going to need to check back for inactives just in case. Nicks shined during his last game against the Panthers, posting three touchdowns among his four catches back in 2010. Carolina is yielding an average of just 10 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers -- second fewest in the NFL -- but that shouldn't deter Fantasy owners in keeping Nicks active in all formats for Week 3.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) did not practice Tuesday as part of a planned rest day, but he is expected to start in Week 3 against the Panthers. Nicks has appeared on the injury report the first two weeks of the season, but has not missed any playing time as he's displayed no lingering effects of the issue. Nicks is coming off a monster game in Week 2 against Tampa Bay, totaling 10 catches for 199 yards and a touchdown. It was the third time during his four-year career he has recorded 10-plus receptions in a game.
Analysis: Don't be surprised if Nicks gets at least one rest day per practice week until he is fully healed from the broken foot he suffered in the offseason. But it didn't look like his injury was much of a hindrance in Week 2 as he registered a sterling average of 19.9 yards per catch to go along with his first touchdown of the game. Nicks shined during his last game against the Panthers, posting three touchdowns among his four catches back in 2010. Carolina is yielding an average of just 10 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers -- second fewest in the NFL -- but that shouldn't deter Fantasy owners in keeping Nicks active in all formats for Week 3.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was listed as a non-participant in practice Monday as New York prepared to play Carolina in Week 3. He continues to deal with lingering effects in his foot after offseason surgery. Nicks caught 10 passes for 199 yards and a touchdowns in New York's Week 2 win over Tampa Bay. The Panthers rank 13th in the NFL against the pass thus far, allowing over 225 yards per game through the air.
Analysis: Nicks continues to rest his foot injury in practice but it has not cost him any games yet. He will likely sit out as much as possible leading up to Thursday so keep an eye on his status going forward. After a slow season opener, the 24-year-old had a monster performance in Week 2 and should be considered a solid option in Fantasy when on the field. As long as he plays against Carolina, plan on keeping Nicks active in all formats.
News: Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks came into Sunday's game against the Bucs questionable because of a lingering foot injury. However, when he stepped on the field against Tampa Bay, there was no questioning his play. Nicks finished with a career-high 199 yards on 10 receptions in a 41-34 win. Nicks' biggest play of the game might have been a 50-yard reception late in the fourth quarter that set up Andre Brown's game-winning touchdown. Nicks had a 23-yard touchdown catch in the game as well. He could have had a two-touchdown effort and his first 200-yard game of his career, but Nicks was denied a 19-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter. He was targeted 15 times and averaged 19.9 yards per catch.
Analysis: Nicks, who had a disappointing Week 1 with four catches for 38 yards, gave us a scare in the fourth quarter when he limped off the field after a Tampa Bay defender stepped on his ankle. But he battled back and came up clutch down the stretch. Nicks said coming into the game that there were some routes he still couldn't run because of his offseason foot injury. Well, he ran the routes he could Sunday and looked very good. The team has a short turnaround and plays Thursday Week 3 against the Panthers. Make sure to have Nicks in your Fantasy lineup.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who came into Week 2 questionable because of a lingering foot injury, has been cleared to start Sunday against the Bucs. In five regular season games against NFC South opponents, Nicks has totaled 27 catches for 385 yards and four touchdowns. The Panthers managed 303 passing yards against the Bucs in Week 1, which included standout performances from wide receivers Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell. Smith totaled seven catches for 106 yards, while LaFell had three catches for 65 yards and one touchdown. Even wide receiver Louis Murphy got into the mix with three catches for 63 yards.
Analysis: Nicks said earlier in the week that some routes still present a problem for him, which is of some concern. However, Nicks is active for Week 2 in a crucial game for the Giants, who lost Week 1. He is still a recommended start in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held out of practice Friday in order to rest lingering pain in his surgically repaired right foot, according to The Star-Ledger. Nicks participated in Thursday's practice after a scheduled day off Wednesday, but it appears New York wanted to alleviate any concern heading into its Week 2 matchup against Tampa Bay. He was officially listed as questionable on the injury report, but coach Tom Coughlin said he expects him to play. Nicks has never faced the Bucs, but he has had some good games against teams from the NFC South. In five regular season games against division opponents, Nicks has totaled 27 catches for 385 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Nicks admitted he is still not at full strength as he withstood some lingering issues he is still dealing with, primarily route-running and cutting. But he appears to earn a favorable matchup in Week 2 as he attempts to overcome his sluggish performance in the season opener against Dallas when he had just four receptions for 38 yards. Carolina managed 303 passing yards against Tampa Bay in Week 1, which included standout performances from wide receivers Steve Smith (seven catches for 106 yards) and Brandon LaFell (three catches for 65 yards and a touchdown). Nicks has surpassed 60 yards in all but one of his last eight home games and is worthy of keeping active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) returned to practice Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. Nicks was expected to return Thursday after getting a day of rest. He is expected to play Week 2 vs. Tampa Bay. Nicks has never faced the Bucs, but he has had some good games against teams from the NFC South. In five regular season games against NFC South opponents, Nicks has totaled 27 catches for 385 yards and four touchdowns. The Panthers managed 303 passing yards against the Bucs in Week 1, which included standout performances from wide receivers Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell. Smith totaled seven catches for 106 yards, while LaFell had three catches for 65 yards and one touchdown. Even wide receiver Louis Murphy got into the mix with three catches for 63 yards.
Analysis: It wouldn't be surprising if Nicks gets some time to rest during the practice week as he continues to work his way back from an offseason foot injury. You have to think missing so much of the preseason recovering from his injury was the reason why Nicks looked a little sluggish Week 1. Hopefully, the more practice time and games he gets under his belt, the more Nicks will look like his former self. However, The Star-Ledger reported Thursday Nicks admitted "certain things" -- routes, cuts -- hurt more than others, so it seems Nicks is still working his way back to 100 percent. You spent a high-round pick on Nicks, so it's tough to bench him in Fantasy after one bad outing. Let's just hope he is ready for his breakout 2012 performance Week 2. Nicks has gone over 60 yards in all but one of his last eight home games.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) was listed as a non-participant in practice Wednesday, but Nicks said he was just resting Wednesday and expects to practice Thursday. The Giants are preparing to face Tampa Bay in Week 2. Nicks has never faced the Bucs, but he has had some good games against teams from the NFC South. In five regular season games against NFC South opponents, Nicks has totaled 27 catches for 385 yards and four touchdowns. He will look to add onto those totals Sunday. The Panthers managed 303 passing yards against the Bucs in Week 1, which included standout performances from wide receivers Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell. Smith totaled seven catches for 106 yards, while LaFell had three catches for 65 yards and one touchdown. Even wide receiver Louis Murphy got into the mix with three catches for 63 yards.
Analysis: The Giants are probably just giving Nicks time to rest during the practice week since he is coming off a major offseason injury. It's still unfortunate because Nicks didn't look sharp Week 1 against the Cowboys and you wonder how much his foot is still an issue. You spent a high-round pick on Nicks, so it's tough to bench him in Fantasy after one bad outing. Let's just hope he is ready for his breakout 2012 performance Week 2. Nicks has gone over 60 yards in all but one of his last eight home games.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has never faced his Week 2 opponent -- the Bucs -- but he has had some good games against teams from the NFC South. In five regular season games against NFC South opponents, Nicks has totaled 27 catches for 385 yards and four touchdowns. He will look to add onto those totals Sunday. The Panthers managed 303 passing yards against the Bucs in Week 1, which included standout performances from wide receivers Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell. Smith totaled seven catches for 106 yards, while LaFell had three catches for 65 yards and one touchdown. Even wide receiver Louis Murphy got into the mix with three catches for 63 yards.
Analysis: Nicks had a very disappointing performance Week 1 against the Cowboys. He might not admit it, but it seems all that time off in the preseason recovering from a foot injury probably affected his performance Week 1. Then again, the Giants didn't have a very inspiring performance against the Cowboys, so better times could be ahead for New York. You spent a high-round pick on Nicks, so it's tough to bench him in Fantasy after one bad outing. Let's just hope he is ready for his breakout 2012 performance Week 2. Nicks has gone over 60 yards in all but one of his last eight home games.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks had an underwhelming start to the season Wednesday in the season-opening loss against Dallas. Nicks was only the Giants' fourth-leading receiver as he caught four passes for just 38 yards from quarterback Eli Manning. Nicks was targeted six times in the game and did not score. He appeared less than 100 percent healthy as he entered the game with a foot issue.
Analysis: Nicks practiced throughout the week and was declared ready to play Wednesday night so the foot injury shouldn't be an excuse for his poor numbers. We expect much bigger things going forward for Nicks and the Giants as Manning only managed 213 yards and one TD pass in the Week 1 loss. Nicks should do more Week 2 against Tampa Bay and remains a worthy Fantasy start.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (foot) was active and in the starting lineup on Wednesday night in the season opener against Dallas. Nicks was listed as probable on the injury report as he practiced throughout the week leading up to the game.
Analysis: Nicks rested for most of the preseason but we knew he'd be on the field when the lights came on Wednesday. Nicks played against Dallas in Week 17 last year and tallied five catches for 76 yards and a touchdown. He also blitzed the Cowboys for eight receptions and 163 yards in Week 14, which marked his third 100-yard outing of the season. Dallas permitted an average of 244.1 passing yards last year, but revamped its secondary during the offseason. Still, Nicks should be considered a solid start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is considered questionable for the team's Week 1 matchup against Dallas on Wednesday, prompting slight concern about the status of his foot. Nicks sat out during practice this past week to alleviate any soreness in his right foot, three months after breaking it during offseason workouts. The 24-year-old insisted Monday he will be on the field for the opener. "I'm playing, period," Nicks said. "You don't have to ask me no questions. I'm playing. There should be no problem come game time. I should be ready to go."
Analysis: While Nicks continues to rest, he has been adamant about being active despite playing in only one preseason game. Nicks played against Dallas in Week 17 last year and tallied five catches for 76 yards and a touchdown. He also blitzed the Cowboys for eight receptions and 163 yards in Week 14, which marked his third 100-yard outing of the season. Dallas permitted an average of 244.1 passing yards last year, but revamped its secondary during the offseason. Still, Nicks should be considered a solid start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks was held out of practice again Monday as the team continues to ensure there is no soreness in his foot, according to the New York Daily News. Nicks, who also missed Sunday's practice, did take part in some walk-through activities Monday and is fully expected to be available for the Giants' Week 1 matchup against Dallas on Wednesday night. He played in only one preseason game. Nicks got off to a fast start last season for the Giants Week 1 at Washington when he caught seven passes for 122 yards. He'll look to do the same Week 1 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: While Nicks continues to rest, he has been adamant about being on the field Wednesday, three months after breaking his right foot. Nicks played against Dallas in Week 17 last year and tallied five catches for 76 yards and a touchdown. He also blitzed the Cowboys for eight receptions and 163 yards in Week 14, which marked his third 100-yard outing of the season. Dallas permitted an average of 244.1 passing yards last year, but revamped its secondary during the offseason. Nicks should be ready to play Wednesday and that makes him a solid Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks sat out practice on Sunday in preparation of Week 1 on Wednesday against Dallas. That said, Nicks practiced in full on Saturday proclaimed himself ready for the opener. “I ain’t really worried about it limiting me at all," Nicks said on Saturday to the New York Post. “If I’m out there, I’m out there. I’m still practicing. I practiced full go today, so, you know, if I feel like it was going to be that serious I wouldn’t be able to practice full go. You know it’s just a matter of, it ain’t feeling great, it is what it is and it’s time to play ball."
Analysis: Nicks sounds like he'll be healthy enough to be a full go for Wednesday's Week 1 game against the Cowboys. It sounds like he sat out Sunday's practice for rest purposes. Nicks played against Dallas Week 17 of last year and caught five balls for 76 yards and a touchdown. He caught eight passes for 163 yards Week 14 at Dallas. Nicks should be ready to play Wednesday and that makes him a viable Fantasy start in all leagues and formats.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks said Saturday he expects to play the entire game during New York's season opener against Dallas -- even if he still feels pain in his foot. Nicks was limited during the early part of the preseason, but showed no lingering effects of a broken foot in the Giants' final exhibition outing. "I have no setbacks, I’m expecting to play the whole game,” he told NFL.com. "It’s a situation where you just gotta get used to playing with it. It’s not going to feel great, I know that, but it’s a matter of me having the desire and want to get through it."
Analysis: Nicks is a key member of one of the most dynamic receiving tandems in the NFL so the Giants had no reason to rush him in the preseason, even if it was against his wishes. "I could've been, but they wanted to take my time with it, be slow with it," said Nicks, who paired with Victor Cruz for a total of 2,728 receiving yards last season. "It was for the best, though. I’m just glad I’m back out there on the field now." With Nicks seemingly ready to roll, Fantasy owners should have no reservations about selecting him as one of the first 10 receivers taken in all drafts.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks got his feet wet on Wednesday night in the preseason finale against New England. Nicks, who had missed the first three preseason games with a broken foot, said he had no issues with the foot and that he is ready to start the regular season Week 1 against Dallas on Wednesday. "It was exactly what I needed to know that I'll be ready for next week," Nicks said. "It was pretty much what I expected." Nicks saw two targets from quarterback Eli Manning and caught one pass for 6 yards in the game against the Patriots.
Analysis: Nicks looked fine on the field for the Giants against New England Wednesday and should be ready one week from this game when the lights come on against the Cowboys. Nicks has looked good in practice and this was the final hurdle, which he jumped over just fine. Nicks is coming off back-to-back seasons with at least 1,000 yards and should eclipse that mark again this year if he can stay healthy. Nicks and teammate Victor Cruz are coming off draft boards just after the first 10 wide receivers selected and he's going to be an advisable start weekly for the Giants.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks said he expects to play during Wednesday's preseason finale against New England after missing the first three games while recovering from a broken foot The Star-Ledger reports. Nicks was activated from the PUP list on Aug. 13 and is on track to be available for the start of the regular season. "As of right now, I was told I’m going to take some snaps," Nicks said Monday. "But if they decide to change, I’m sure they’ll let me know. Whatever decision they make, I’ll roll with it. ... If the season was last week, I could play."
Analysis: Nicks has been crisp in his route-running since returning to practice last week and appears to be completely past his foot injury. He must be as the Giants certainly wouldn't gamble with his health for the final preseason game with Week 1 approaching Sept. 5 against Dallas. "I’ve got fresh legs. I feel like I can just run," Nicks said. "I think it’ll help me later in the season rather than sooner." Nicks is coming off back-to-back seasons with at least 1,000 yards and should eclipse that mark again this year if he can stay healthy. Fantasy owners should consider him a high-end option worthy of selection late in Round 2 of upcoming drafts.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks has been increasing his practice workload in recent weeks since coming off the Physically Unable to Perform list, but he was still not in uniform for the team’s third preseason game, Friday against the Bears. Nicks is expected to be fully recovered from his broken foot by the time the regular season opens, but he may not be used at all in the preseason. Nicks did warm up with the team in full uniform, as he continues to aim for the regular season.
Analysis: Nicks has been working in team and individual drills recently, trying to get his timing back with quarterback Eli Manning, while also getting back into playing shape. He has admitted to a bit of rust in practice recently, but that is expected, after he missed all of the team’s offseason workouts and much of training camp while recovering from the injury. Nicks put up six 100-yard games last season and is coming off back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons. He is one of the most talented receivers in the game and should match his previous production, if healthy, so consider him a high-end Fantasy option worthy of targeting beginning in Round 3 on Draft Day.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks increased his activity in practice Tuesday as he gradually works back from a fractured right foot. It was the second straight day Nicks participated in team drills as he took roughly 75 percent of the reps in practice. "I feel good. No setbacks," Nicks told reporters. "I'm getting my feet back under me, working on my releases a little bit, trying to get the timing back down and the routes and the plays."
Analysis: Nicks suffered a broken foot during team drills May 24, but is expected to be available for New York's season opener against Dallas. He has been effective in running routes and is currently working on his timing with quarterback Eli Manning. The two connected for six 100-yard games receiving last season, including the playoffs. "It's not far off," Nicks said. "Obviously, I need some polishing up because I've been out for a while, but we've got enough time to make things right. A good solid week of practice and everything will be better." If healthy, Nicks should be able to match his totals from last season and is considered a high-end Fantasy option worthy of a selection beginning in Round 3 of drafts.
News: Most NFL players aren't overly excited for practice during the sizzling summer months. For Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, it's a welcome sign as he continues his recovery from a broken foot he suffered during team drills in the offseason. Nicks, who was activated from the PUP list last week, joined the team on the practice field Monday for the first time since the injury. "I might have some fresh legs. That’s the good thing about it," Nicks told reporters. "But I’m just excited to be back out there practicing with the team. I can’t wait to start going for real."
Analysis: After being limited to only individual drills last week, Nicks said he would likely participate in half of the team reps Monday, but hopefully at full speed. "I’ve been running routes now for about two weeks," he said. "I ran every route in the route book and haven’t had a problem. I just have to go out there and take care of the things I need to take care of and stay on top of it." Nicks' availability for the final two preseason games will be obviously based on how his foot responds in practice this week. Nicks, who was posted at least 75 catches and 1,000 yards in each of his last two seasons, has maintained he will be ready for the regular-season opener. Expect him to be taken beginning in Round 3 of drafts as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who just came off the PUP list and is unexpected to be back to full practice before Monday, will obviously not take part in Saturday's preseason game against the Jets. Nicks was on the PUP list with a foot injury and is not yet ready to get back to full-go status.
Analysis: Nicks is back for the Giants during team workouts, but he isn't likely to be a full go in practice until at least Monday. We just hope he's ready to go come Week 1. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress, and hopefully we'll see him on the field at some point in the preseason. Fantasy owners should view Nicks as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver in the majority of leagues. He will likely be drafted in all formats by Round 4.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks was in pads Thursday, doing some light work and taking part in individual drills. Nicks (foot) was just activated off the PUP list last Monday and can't practice fully until this coming Monday.
Analysis: We're glad Nicks is back and working out, and we hope he's ready to go come Week 1. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress, and hopefully we'll see him on the field at some point in the preseason. Fantasy owners should view Nicks as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver in the majority of leagues. He will likely be drafted in all formats by Round 4.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks passed his physical Monday and was removed off the Physically Unable to Perform list. He will now have to wait three days, per NFL rules, before he can practice, but it appears that he has recovered fully from the broken foot he suffered in May.
Analysis: Nicks has been optimistic throughout his recovery process, but it is still something of a surprise that he is back so quickly. When he suffered the injury in late May, his timetable for an expected return was 12 weeks, and he is going to beat that by about a week. At this point, he should be able to participate in practice in full by the end of the week, so doubts about his availability for the beginning of the regular season should be in the past. Nicks has at least 75 catches and 1,000 yards in each of his last two seasons, and barring any sort of setback, should not be slowed by the injury. Expect him to be taken beginning in Round 3 as a borderline low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks continues to take positive strides in his recovery from a foot injury and was slated to run routes on the side of practice Tuesday, The Star-Ledger reports. Nicks, currently on the PUP list after breaking his foot during exercises in the spring, has been limited to running in straight lines at practice. Tuesday will mark the first time he has tested his foot with cuts on the field. "I'm excited about running some routes and getting to see where I’m at," he said. "We're just going to see how today goes and take it from there."
Analysis: While he may be sidelined for the entire preseason, Nicks' optimism is fueling the strong possibility that he will be available for the Giants' season opener against Dallas on Sept. 5. "Definitely. Definitely still on target," Nicks said about his availability for Week 1. "No setbacks. Everything’s been going good." Nicks has been no stranger to injuries, but he remains one of New York's top playmakers and posted at least 75 catches and 1,000 yards in each of his last two seasons. Expect him to be taken beginning in Round 3 as a borderline low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants general manager Jerry Reese told CBSSports.com NFL Insider Pat Kirwan he believes Hakeem Nicks is running well enough now to be ready for the opener. Reese did not rule out Nicks playing in a preseason game or two but noted that the team will not rush him back. Nicks continues to rehab from a fractured fifth metatarsal of his right foot during a late-May OTA practice and told the New York Daily News that he's not feeling any pain in his foot.
Analysis: We like the cautious approach the Giants are taking with Nicks. A target date of Aug. 17 -- a week before the team's third preseason game -- might end up being just right for him to return to practice. Once he is back at practice, whether it's by Aug. 17 or not, Fantasy owners won't fear him being an injury-riddled bust. Expect him to be taken between Rounds 3 and 4 as a borderline low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, on the physically unable to perform list, is still on track for a mid-August return, reports the New York Daily News Sunday. “Definitely,” he said. “No setbacks. Everything’s going the way we planned. I’m just sticking to the things that the doctors and trainers told us to do.”
Analysis: Nicks has been running since arriving in Albany for training camp and if you saw him walk on the field, you wouldn't even know which foot he injured, reports the Daily News. “There’s no pain, no pain right now,” he said. “Ran on it before. The next morning, it responded very well. There’s no pain. It’s a matter of being smart about it.” Nicks sounds like he should be ready for the regular season. The injury was still expected to lower his stock just a bit in early Fantasy drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: As expected, Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list. He's eligible to come off the list at any time but can't do any practices with the team until he's removed. If he's still on the list before the regular season then he's forced to miss at least the first six weeks of the year. Nicks continues to rehab from a fractured fifth metatarsal of his right foot during a late-May OTA practice. Head coach Tom Coughlin said there aren't any setbacks for Nicks, but he's not close to practicing. "He just started running in the wading pool," Coughlin said. "He's got all of that to go through before he can get out there. He's been on the elliptical, so he can do some things like catching the ball, but he's not going to be able to run."
Analysis: Nicks' recovery from his injury could take a little longer than expected. A target date of Aug. 17 -- a week before the team's third preseason game -- could be too much to ask for. For now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz told the Newark Star-Ledger he recently spoke with injured teammate Hakeem Nicks and was told that Nicks expects to be ready for the start of the season. Nicks continues to rehab from a fractured fifth metatarsal of his right foot during a late-May OTA practice; he was off of crutches as recently as last week. "He looks good. He's walking again on his own so that's definitely a good sign," Cruz said. "He told me he'll be ready and he told me he'll take training camp to continue rehabbing and continue to get his foot back right, but I definitely expect him to be ready by game one."
Analysis: This is a change from late June when Nicks told a Charlotte radio station he expected to be ready for camp. Either way, we figure that as long as Nicks gets some time in camp along with a preseason game or two, he'll be ready for Week 1 vs. Dallas. An Aug. 17 return date would be ideal. For now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks told Sports Radio 610 The Fan in Charlotte that he will "definitely" be ready for the start of training camp. Nicks continues to rehab from a fractured fifth metatarsal of his right foot during a late-May OTA practice. "Definitely making training camp," Nicks said. "I start running in about two weeks but the coaches don't really want me to force the issue right now so I still haven't started running yet. They want me to just take my time with it. They feel like that's what's best. So right now I'm just taking my time with it. I see my doctor tomorrow and we're going to see how things look when I get to Charlotte and we're going to take it from there. But I'll definitely be ready for the season."
Analysis: Nicks' enthusiasm sounds good to us. So long as he's back on the field with the Giants before Friday, August 17 -- a week before their third preseason game -- there shouldn't be any issues with him being ready for Week 1. As long as he is healthy for the start of the season and gets some work in camp and a preseason game or two, the injury is more of a reminder that he's injury prone and less of a factor on his 2012 season. We'll see if this lasts into late August and the regular season; for now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks is “walking around pretty good” after having surgery last week to repair a broken fifth metatarsal in his right foot. “It was a simple hook route,” he said in describing how he suffered the injury on a conference call, adding that he felt a “little snap.” The prognosis is for about 12 weeks of rehab. When asked if he’ll play in the opener, Nicks said he had “no doubt.”
Analysis: We're glad Nicks is confident he'll be ready for Week 1, but he still has a long way to go in his rehab. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress, and hopefully we'll see him on the field at some point in training camp and the preseason. Fantasy owners should view Nicks as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver in the majority of leagues. He will likely be drafted in all formats by Round 4.
News: A Giants spokesperson told ESPN that wide receiver Hakeem Nicks is still expected to return to the team after the start of training camp, despite the receiver's intentions of coming back sooner. Nicks is expected to miss at least 12 weeks while recovering from a fractured fifth metatarsal of his right foot during a late-May OTA practice.
Analysis: A reasonable return date for Nicks could be Friday, Aug. 17, a week before the Giants' third preseason game vs. the Bears. Then, Nicks could see limited action in two preseason games before getting ready to the start of the season. So long as he is healthy for the start of the season and gets some work in camp and a preseason game or two, the injury is more of a reminder that he's injury prone and less of a factor on his 2012 season. We'll see if this lasts into late August and the regular season; for now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: ESPN.com reports that Giants coach Tom Coughlin said receiver Hakeem Nicks told him he will do everything to get back for training camp. Nicks told him on Monday that he was pain free following surgery to repair a broken bone in his foot. The timetable for Nicks' return remains unclear with the initial report saying he was out 12 weeks before a second report said he would miss four-to-six weeks. Nicks fractured the fifth metatarsal of his right foot during an OTA practice.
Analysis: We hope Nicks is pain free at this point, but he still remains questionable to be ready for the start of training camp. We still expect Nicks to be ready for Week 1, which is the important date, and he should still be viewed as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy receiver in the majority of leagues. He will likely be drafted in all leagues by Round 4.
News: ESPN reports that a source familiar with the broken bone in Hakeem Nicks' foot says the receiver might miss four-to-six weeks recovering from the injury and not the 12-week timeframe the Giants said on Thursday. Nicks fractured the fifth metatarsal of his right foot during an OTA practice. The team is hoping to have him back at some point during training camp and the preseason.
Analysis: Unless the diagnosis on Nicks' foot changes, we're not believers that he'll be ready in six weeks and thus long before the start of training camp. Nicks' teammate, Prince Amukamara, took 15 weeks before he was comfortable practicing last year according to the Newark Star-Ledger and he had the same injury. Nicks has had all sorts of issues with hamstrings, knees and his feet over the years. So long as he is healthy for the start of the season and gets some work in camp and a preseason game or two, the injury is more of a reminder that he's injury prone and less of a factor on his 2012 season. We'll see if this lasts into late August and the regular season; for now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: The Giants announced Thursday that wide receiver Hakeem Nicks fractured the fifth metatarsal of his right foot during an OTA practice. Nicks was running a hook route in an individual drill when he turned around and went down. He's set for surgery this week in Charlotte and will miss roughly 12 weeks. He is expected to re-join the team in mid-August during training camp. "It's probably going to be close," coach Tom Coughlin told NFL Network on Nicks' availability for the start of the season. "The doctors have expressed it as being something that they think will heal very, very well. ... If it takes the full three months, you're gonna be sitting right up next to that opening game, and we certainly hope that Hakeem is correct in saying that he heals fast."
Analysis: The Newark Star-Ledger made an interesting point: Giants cornerback Prince Amukamara had the same injury last year and didn't practice for 15 weeks. Nicks' return in 12 weeks sounds optimistic, and he's had all sorts of issues with hamstrings, knees and his feet over the years. So long as he is healthy for the start of the season and gets some work in camp and a preseason game or two, the injury is more of a reminder that he's injury prone. We'll see if this lasts into late August and the regular season; for now expect his stock to slip in drafts. He'll be a Round 3-4 choice as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy receiver.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks finished with game highs in receptions (10) and yards (109) during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday night. Nicks topped the century mark for the third time in four playoff games as he averaged a stellar 10.9 yards per catch against the Patriots. He served as the go-to receiver for QB Eli Manning and was targeted a staggering 13 times, which represented a team best.
Analysis: Nicks proved he doesn't need to practice to be effective. After being listed as questionable for Sunday's showdown because of a shoulder issue, Nicks cemented his status as an elite receiver with the dominating performance. Nicks finished with a whopping 28 catches and four touchdown receptions during New York's four-game playoff run. During the regular season, he collected a career-high 1,192 receiving yards and could surpass the 1,000-yard mark again next season. He should be one of the first receivers selected in 2012 Fantasy drafts.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks is active for Sunday's Super Bowl against New England after sitting out several of the team's practices with a shoulder issue. Nicks did not participate in practice during New York's bye week leading up to the game and was listed as questionable.
Analysis: Nicks was always expected to suit up for the showdown as he has been the Giants' leading receiver during the postseason. The 24-year-old has registered four touchdowns and topped 100 yards in two of the team's three playoff games. He now faces a Patriots pass defense that ranked second-to-last in the NFL and surrendered 293.9 yards a game this season. Consider Nicks a must-start in all Fantasy playoff formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks did not participate in any practices during the team's bye week before Super Bowl XLVI. He's listed as questionable on the team's preliminary practice report. Nicks is dealing with a shoulder injury after being on the injury report for a spell with an ankle problem.
Analysis: At this point we're not concerned about Nicks missing the game, nor are we concerned for his long-term health. Assuming he can get in a few practices before the big game, he should be ready to go against a pass defense that has struggled against most of its opponents. Expect a good game from Nicks and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR for 2012 worth a second- or third-round pick.
News: After posting monster numbers for the first two games of the playoffs, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks could not keep up the pace on Sunday in the NFC Championship, catching just five passes for 55 yards as the Giants beat the 49ers, 20-17. He was targeted 12 times as the Giants relied on the passing game heavily, but he was unable to bring the majority of the passes in. And after breaking a number of long passes, the 49ers kept him in check, limiting him to a long of 15 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was not going to keep up his ridiculous pace from the first two rounds of the playoffs, as he had 280 yards and four touchdowns in just two games. However if he’s going to get back close to those lofty standards, Super Bowl would provide an excellent opportunity to do so. That is because they face the NFL’s second-worst passing defense in the Patriots, who allowed 292 yards per game during the regular season. The game figures to be a track meet, pitting the NFL’s fifth and second-best passing offenses against each other. Consider Nicks a high-end Fantasy option in that matchup.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who was limited in practice during the week with an ankle injury, is active for Sunday's NFC Championship game at San Francisco. Nicks posted a monster game last weekend against the Packers and was never in serious jeopardy of missing the NFC title game.
Analysis: Nicks has been New York's best receiver during the postseason and has amassed 280 yards and four touchdowns. With the emergence of WR Victor Cruz, Nicks seemed to be a forgotten man in the Giants' passing game this season as injuries limited his production. However, he still mustered a career-high 1,192 yards and should be viewed as a high-end WR option on Draft Day in 2012.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was limited in practice during the week with an ankle injury, but is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the 49ers. He posted a monster game last weekend against the Packers.
Analysis: Nicks has been New York's best receiver during the postseason and has amassed 280 yards and four touchdowns. With the emergence of WR Victor Cruz, Nicks seemed to be a forgotten man in the Giants' passing game this season as injuries limited his production. However, he still mustered a career-high 1,192 yards and should be viewed as a high-end WR option on Draft Day in 2012.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks posted seven receptions for a game-high 165 yards and two touchdowns during New York's 37-20 win over Green Bay in its NFC Divisional Playoff game on Sunday. It's the second straight game -- both in the playoffs -- that Nicks has recorded 100-plus yards and two touchdowns. His biggest play was a 66-touchdown catch as time expired in the first half that gave the Giants a 20-10 at halftime. Nicks finished with a team-high nine targets from QB Eli Manning as he posted an average of 23.6 yards per catch.
Analysis: Nicks has been New York's best receiver during the postseason and has amassed a whopping 280 yards and four touchdowns to help New York reach the NFC title game for the second time in four years. With the emergence of WR Victor Cruz, Nicks seemed to be a forgotten man in the Giants' passing game this season as injuries limited his production. However, he still mustered a career-high 1,192 yards and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in playoff challenges for the NFC Championship against San Francisco.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks saved the perfect time to have his second multiple-touchdown performance of the season in his team's 24-2 Wild Card win against the Falcons on Sunday. Nicks had a team-high six catches for 115 and the two scores, which included an impressive 72-yard catch-and-run play in the third quarter. Nicks' first-touchdown, a four-yard catch in the second quarter, gave the Giants a lead in the second quarter they wouldn't relinquish. Nicks was targeted nine times in the game.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will love this little tidbit. The only other time Nicks had two touchdowns this season was in Week 13 against the Packers -- the Giants' next opponent in the playoffs. New York will likely have to throw plenty against Green Bay, so Nicks remains a viable Fantasy option in all playoff formats. Although Victor Cruz set all kinds of single-season receiving records for the Giants in 2011, Nicks still managed another 70-catch season and had a career-high 1,192 yards. He will continue to be an elite Fantasy WR in 2012, worth grabbing in the early rounds.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to snap his three-game scoreless streak in Week 17 against the Cowboys. He scored on a 4-yard touchdown pass from QB Eli Manning in the fourth quarter, and finished with five catches for 76 yards in the 31-14 win. He had a long reception of 36 and averaged 15.2 yards per grab. Nicks, who was targeted six times, finished second on New York in receiving behind WR Victor Cruz (178 yards).
Analysis: Nicks scored his seventh touchdown of the year on Sunday and added to his career high in receiving yards, which stands at 1,192. While he was outproduced by Cruz this season, he remains one of the favorite targets of Manning and is a serious red-zone threat. He should be able to produce in the playoffs so owners in those formats should keep him active. As for 2012, consider Nicks a solid Fantasy WR in all Fantasy formats on Draft Day.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has been ruled active for Week 17 against the Cowboys. He was limited in practice the week leading up to Sunday due to a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Nicks was held to just one reception in Week 16 against the Jets as he was also squared up against DB Darrelle Revis. He will look to rebound against the Cowboys, who he torched for eight catches and 163 yards in the teams' previous meeting this year. Dallas is allowing an average of 19.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Consider Nicks a must-start Fantasy WR for Sunday's game.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to return to practice Friday after missing the previous two days with a nagging hamstring injury. Nicks, who has worked out on the side this week, predicted he would be able to return to practice Friday as the team prepares to face Dallas in Week 17. He re-aggravated the injury in the Giants' last game, but is listed as probable on the team's injury report for Sunday's outing.
Analysis: Nicks was held to just one reception in Week 16 against the Jets as he was also squared up against DB Darrelle Revis. He will look to rebound against the Cowboys, who he torched for eight catches and 163 yards in the teams' previous meeting this year. Dallas is allowing an average of 19.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Consider Nicks a must-start Fantasy WR if he's healthy for Sunday's game.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was unable to practice for the second straight day Thursday because of a hamstring injury. However, he did some light running on the side in order to test his strained hamstring, according to the New York Daily News. Nicks has been hampered by the issue for most of the season and re-aggravated the injury in the Giants' last game. New York hosts Dallas in Week 17.
Analysis: Nicks was held to just one reception in Week 16 against the Jets as he was also squared up against DB Darrelle Revis. He will look to rebound against the Cowboys, who he torched for eight catches and 163 yards in the teams' previous meeting this year. Dallas is allowing an average of 19.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Consider Nicks a must-start Fantasy WR if he's healthy for Sunday's game.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday that he's "optimistic" WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) will be able to play in Week 17 against Dallas. He is not expected to practice Wednesday. Coughlin said Nicks, who suffered the setback last Saturday, didn't have "that other gear" against the Jets.
Analysis: In addition to being slowed by the hamstring issue in Week 16, Nicks drew the tough assignment of facing Jets star DB Darrelle Revis. The combination appeared to affect his production last week as he was limited to just one reception for 20 yards. He will look to rebound against the Cowboys, who he torched for eight catches and 163 yards in the teams' previous meeting this year. Dallas is allowing an average of 19.9 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Consider Nicks a No. 1 Fantasy WR if he's healthy.
News: The Giants won the game Week 16 against the Jets, but WR Hakeem Nicks lost his showdown with elite corner Darrelle Revis. While Revis wasn't on Nicks the entire game, Revis did make a few plays against Nicks that made a difference. The first was denying Nicks a 2-yard touchdown in the second quarter. The second was forcing Nicks to bobble a pass in the fourth quarter that was eventually picked off. Nicks finished with one catch for 20 yards on seven targets.
Analysis: Revis has shut down many elite receivers during his career, so this stat line isn't surprising. It's just that many Fantasy owners had to roll with Nicks in championship situations and he let us down. If you are still playing in Week 17, then Nicks remains a viable Fantasy play against the Cowboys. He had eight catches for 163 yards against Dallas in Week 14.
News: The Jets, the Giants' Week 16 opponent, should be aware that WR Hakeem Nicks has stepped up his game lately against AFC opponents. Nicks has 22 catches for 293 yards and two touchdowns in his past three games against the AFC. But as much as the Jets need to respect Nicks, the third-year receiver needs to show the same respect for the vaunted Jets secondary. The Jets are allowing WRs to average just 114.5 yards and 14.7 Fantasy points per week, which is the third-lowest average in the NFL.
Analysis: While Nicks still finished with 73 yards in Week 15 against the Redskins, he left a lot of Fantasy points on the field, including when he dropped a 54-yard touchdown in the first quarter. Our biggest concern in Week 16 is how much will the Jets use Darrelle Revis against Nicks? The Giants also have threats in the passing game in Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz, so the Jets could move around Nicks. But seeing how Nicks is the team's best receiver, he could be on Revis Island for most of the game. That is why Nicks has to be treated more like a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 16.
News: It was a rough day for Giants WR Hakeem Nicks in Week 15 against the Redskins. His day got off to a rocky start as he dropped a would-be 54-yard touchdown reception on the team's second drive. Nicks had two drops in the first half as he failed to record a catch. It didn't get much better in the second half for Nicks. He couldn't get his hands a 43-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter because he was pulled down on a pass interference play. Later on the same drive, Nicks had a 4-yard touchdown catch go through his hands and then had a 2-yard touchdown catch called back because of offensive holding. Nicks finished with five catches for 73 yards on a team-high 12 targets.
Analysis: Nicks left a lot of Fantasy points on the board Week 15 and that's tough for Fantasy owners to stomach in a must-win scenario. The good news is that he continues to be one of Eli Manning's top targets down the stretch, so if you survive to the next round of the Fantasy playoffs, then consider starting Nicks in Week 16. The Giants play the Jets and Nicks could see a lot of Darrelle Revis, but he still has the potential for a big game.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks had his first 100-yard game facing the Redskins in Week 1 and will be looking to make it consecutive games with 100-yard outings against Washington in Week 15. However, while Nicks has 11 catches for 206 yards in three games against Washington, he has yet to record a touchdown. The Redskins have yielded five touchdowns to receivers in their last four games, but are still limiting WRs to 16.8 Fantasy points per week, which is the fourth-lowest average in the NFL.
Analysis: After hitting a bit of a lull from late October through late November, Nicks has been money for Fantasy owners the last three games. He has at least seven catches and 80 yards in three straight games. He totaled 163 yards in Week 14 against the Cowboys, so Fantasy owners have to continue to start Nicks heading into Week 15. Look for the Giants to pick on a secondary that will be starting DeJon Gomes and Reed Doughty at safety.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks posted his third 100-yard performance of the season in Week 14 against the Cowboys. He caught seven passes for 154 yards in the 37-34 win. He had a long reception of 64 and averaged 22 yards per reception. Nicks, who was targeted a team-high 10 times, led New York in receiving in the victory.
Analysis: After posting 88 yards with two scores a week ago, Nicks had another productive performance on Sunday night. He has recorded seven catches in each of his last three games and has gone for 329 yards over that span. He is re-establishing himself as the main threat in the passing game in New York, and should continue to see ample targets from QB Eli Manning down the stretch. With the Redskins up next on the schedule, continue to roll with Nicks as a must-start Fantasy WR. When he faced the division foe earlier in the year, the 23-year-old caught seven passes for 122 yards.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will faced off against a Cowboys team in Weke 14 that he has had success against in the past. In two games against the division foe last season, he caught 14 passes for 190 yards with two touchdowns. Dallas enters Sunday night ranked 14th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 231 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 18.8 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Nicks has been dealing with some injuries in recent weeks but it has not affected his production much. He has posted 80-plus yards receiving in each of the last two games, including hauling in two touchdowns his last time out. The Cowboys have allowed 10 scores to wideouts thus far so the 23-year-old should be in for another productive performance on Sunday. Consider Nicks a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks showed up Monday with his right ankle wrapped, but he assured reporters that he didn't hurt it and is OK. However, he told the New York Daily News that he tweaked his ankle in the third quarter Week 13 vs. Green Bay and that is is nothing serious. The Giants play at Dallas in Week 14.
Analysis: It's likely that Nicks is going to appear on the injury report for a second straight week. He came into the Green Bay game dealing with head and rib injuries. Nicks could also miss practice time this week, but that isn't a big deal as long as he gets healthy for Sunday's game. Nicks had arguably one of his best performances this season against Green Bay as he hauled in two touchdowns. If active Week 14, then start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to haul in a pair of touchdown passes in Week 13 against the Packers. Nicks, who was a bit beat up entering the contest, was on the receiving end of a 4-yard touchdown strike from Eli Manning in the third quarter, capping off a five-play, 71-yard scoring drive. He then was on the receiving end of a 2-yard strike from Manning in the fourth quarter, which would be the last points New York would score. Nicks finished with seven receptions for 88 yards in the 38-35 defeat and had a long of 42 yards. He was targeted a team-high 12 times and averaged 12.6 yards per reception.
Analysis: After finding the end zone just once over his previous five games, Nicks was able to score twice against the Packers. The 23-year-old has not been producing as expected of late, but his performance on Sunday should get him back into the good graces of most Fantasy owners. Now Nicks will look to build off his latest effort when he faces the Cowboys in Week 14. While Dallas has done a decent job defending the pass this season, Nicks has had some success against his division rival. He has averaged 75.7 yards receiving and scored three touchdowns in three career games against the Cowboys, so owners should consider Nicks a a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option heading into his matchup next week.
News: Giants RB Hakeem Nicks has officially been ruled active for Week 13 against the Packers. Nicks, who sat out Wednesday and Thursday recovering from multiple injuries (ribs, concussion), was able to practice on Friday. The Packers enter Sunday's contest ranked 31st in pass defense, allowing 287.8 yards per game. Green Bay has surrendered 19 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 24.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season.
Analysis: Nicks was held out of practice a few days this week but just as a precaution. Now that he has officially been ruled active, owners need to get him in their starting lineups. The Packers have struggled to defend the pass at times season, so this looks to be a favorable matchup for Nicks. Consider him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR against Green Bay.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who sat out Wednesday and Thursday recovering from multiple injuries (ribs, concussion), returned to practice Friday. He was then listed as probable for Week 13 vs. Green Bay. The Packers enter Sunday's contest ranked 31st in pass defense, allowing 287.8 yards per game. Green Bay has surrendered 19 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 24.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season
Analysis: Nicks has been confident all week that he was going to play. He was just held out of practice for a few days as a precaution. Unless Nicks has a bad setback, then Fantasy owners need to start him Week 13, although keep an eye on his status leading up to when inactives are released just to be sure. Nicks looks to have a favorable matchup in Week 13, as Green Bay has struggled to defend the pass this season. Consider Nicks a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR, if he is healthy enough to play against the Packers.
News: A trio of Giants offensive players were unable to practice Thursday. WRs Hakeem Nicks (ribs, concussion) and Mario Manningham (knee), and RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) were held out of practice again as the team prepares for Week 13 vs. Green Bay. Giants coach Tom Coughlin said the doctors wanted to hold Nicks out one more day to make sure his headaches were gone. He might practice Friday. Nicks said his ribs are bruised, but he won't pad them if he plays. He also said his head is fine.
Analysis: It's a bit alarming to see Nicks held out of practice again seeing how he finished out the game Monday against the Saints after taking a nasty hit from Isa Abdul-Quddus. It would be alarming if Nicks doesn't practice Friday. Perhaps Fantasy owners do need a contingency plan just in case Nicks is out Week 13, but if he is active, then start him in all formats. The Giants will probably have to throw a lot, so the stats could be there for Nicks.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks did not practice Wednesday, as he was listed on the injury report with multiple injuries (ribs, concussion). However, the team said he was held out of practice because of a headache, but he has passed his concussion tests. The Giants host Green Bay in Week 13.
Analysis: Nicks took a big hit from Isa Abdul-Quddus while trying to make a catch over the middle in the third quarter Monday against the Saints. He did come out of the game for a bit, but he eventually returned. It appears Nicks is still a little dinged up from the hit, but he is still expected to play Sunday. If his status changes, then we will let you know. Nicks hasn't had a 100-yard game in his last six outings as Victor Cruz has become a big-play receiver for New York. Still, Nicks is targeted often and usually gets the job done. Consider him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 13.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks appeared to survive an injury scare in Week 12 against the Saints. Nicks took a big hit from Isa Abdul-Quddus, while trying to make a catch over the middle in the third quarter and was very slow to get up. He briefly left the contest after being helped off the field and was diagnosed with a rib contusion. However, Nicks was able to return to the contest and finished with seven receptions for 87 yards in the 49-24 defeat. He was targeted 12 times by Eli Manning and averaged 12.4 yards per reception. "I was defenseless,” Nicks said after the game about the shot he took. “It’s football, he took advantage of it. He did what he’s supposed to do, I guess. I wasn’t happy, but it’s football. He got a good shot.”
Analysis: Nicks looked like he took a big shot to the head on Monday night and appeared to be dazed for a few moments immediately afterwards. To his credit, he did return to the game and still manged to put up decent numbers in the blowout loss. However, he does have a rib injury, which could limit him in practice this week, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status leading up to Week 13 against the Packers. While Victor Cruz has appeared to overtake Nicks as the No. 1 receiving option in New York, the 23-year-old looks to have a very favorable matchup next Sunday against Green Bay. The Packers have struggled to defend the pass at times this season and are allowing an average of 24.5 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season, which ranks 31st overall. As long as Nicks is healthy, he can be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into his next matchup.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to return in Week 12 against the Saints after taking a bit hit in the third quarter. Nicks was blasted by Isa Abdul-Quddus, while trying to make a catch over the middle and was very slow to get up. He was helped off the field by team trainers but has returned to the game. Nicks has six catches for 72 yards thus far.
Analysis: Nicks took a big shot to the head, but the team is saying he suffered a bruised rib. However, he was able to get back on the field, so his injury doesn't appear to be that serious. Check back after the game to see how many Fantasy points Nicks was able to finish with.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks left Week 12 against the Saints after taking a big hit in the third quarter. Nicks was blasted by Isa Abdul-Quddus, while trying to make a catch over the middle and was very slow to get up. He was helped off the field by team trainers and was being looked at on the sidelines. Nicks had five receptions for 63 yards prior to leaving the game. His return is being listed as questionable.
Analysis: Nicks took a big shot to the head, but the team is saying he suffered a bruised rib. Under new NFL rules, Nicks must be checked out by doctors before being allowed to return, so there should be an update on his status shortly. Hopefully he can return and rack up a few more points for Fantasy owners. Stay tuned for the latest details.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will be looking to deliver a repeat performance when he faces the Saints in Week 12. Nicks, who was hauled in 43 receptions for 685 yards thus far, finished with five catches for 114 yards and touchdown in his lone meeting against New Orleans back in 2009. The Saints enter Monday night's contest ranked 19th in pass defense, allowing 239.9 yards per game. New Orleans has surrendered 16 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 21.4 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the season.
Analysis: Nicks hasn't turned in the types of performances most owners have been expecting since returning from his hamstring injury, although he looks to have favorable matchup in Week 12. New Orleans has had more than few issues in their secondary this season and Nicks was able to put up big numbers the last time he faced them. The 23-year-old remains on of Eli Manning's favorite targets -- especially in the red zone -- so owners should consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Saints.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was unable to come up with most of the passes thrown his way in Week 11 against the Eagles. He was targeted seven times by QB Eli Manning, catching three for 69 yards in the 17-10 loss. He had a long reception of 47 and averaged 23 yards per grab. Nicks finished second on New York in receiving behind Victor Cruz (128 yards).
Analysis: Nicks came up with some big grabs on Sunday and is averaging nearly 16 yards per catch this season. He did much better against the Eagles this time around than he did in Week 3, when he was held to 25 yards on three grabs, and he appears to be fully healed from his hamstring injury that has limited him. His big-play ability and the fact that Manning likes to target him in the red zone makes him a very valuable player in Fantasy. With the Saints up next on the schedule, continue to view Nicks as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks did not do much against the Eagles earlier in the year and will be looking for retribution in Week 11. When the division foes met in Week 3, he was limited to just 25 yards on three catches. Philadelphia enters Sunday ranked 11th in the league in pass defense, giving up just under 220 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Nicks has been limited by a hamstring issue the last couple of weeks but returned last Sunday with two catches for 41 yards and a touchdown. He appears to be over the injury heading into Week 11, however, and could be in line for a bounce-back performance. WRs Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz have been stealing catches away from him in recent weeks so keep an eye on how QB Eli Manning distributes the ball against the Eagles. Nicks should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 11.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks had two catches for 41 yards and a touchdown during New York's 27-20 loss to San Francisco in Week 10. Nicks hauled in a 32-yard pass from QB Eli Manning for a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but the Giants could not draw closer. It was the fourth touchdown catch of the season for Nicks, who finished with only four targets from Manning. Victor Cruz led the team with 11 looks.
Analysis: Nicks was considered questionable for the game after dealing with a hamstring injury in practice last week. He missed New York's previous game with the issue, but may have returned too quickly and posted his lowest reception total of the season. Nicks continues to serve as one of Manning's favorite targets near the end zone and should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 11 against Philadelphia if he remains healthy.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks is active for Week 10 against San Francisco after dealing with a hamstring injury. Nick was sidelined for Week 9 against New England and was considered questionable on the team's injury report.
Analysis: Nicks was able to practice Thursday and Friday last week as he returns to lead New York's passing game. The 49ers rank 22nd in the NFL in pass defense, allowing more than 255 yards per game. They have also permitting an average of 21.5 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Consider Nicks a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR now that he's in the lineup, but there is some risk as he recovers from the injury.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) practiced for a second straight day Friday as the team prepares for Week 10 at San Francisco. However, he was still listed as questionable and coach Tom Coughlin said he will be a game-time decision.
Analysis: It's a good sign that Nicks practiced again Friday. Now, he just has to see how his hamstring holds up. If he plays on Sunday, then he likely will be full-go, but he is coming off an injury that could open him up to suffering a setback. Take that into consideration when starting Nicks, but since he is arguably the Giants' most-talented receiver when healthy, then he is a viable Fantasy start if he plays. Just remember it is a 4:15 p.m. ET start, so take that into consideration if you don't have a backup plan in case Nicks is inactive.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who is working his way back from a hamstring injury that kept him sidelined Week 9, returned to practice on Thursday. He mostly did individual drills, but coach Tom Coughlin said he participated in a few plays during practice and is "definitely" moving in the right direction. The Giants travel to San Francisco in Week 10.
Analysis: Friday is going to be a big day for Nicks. If he returns to a full team practice, then his status will look a lot more optimistic for Week 10. If he misses practice or is limited, then perhaps there is concern he might sit again. Nicks said Wednesday he is going to be smart about his recovery. If Nicks is active, then you will start him Week 10, so stay tuned.
News: After Giants coach Tom Coughlin said prior to practice Wednesday that WR Hakeem Nicks, who missed Week 9 with a hamstring injury, would work in team drills, Nicks was listed as did not practice on the injury report. Nicks said he expects to do some individual drills on Thursday. He added that he did some running and cutting Wednesday and is trying to be smart in his recovery. “If by the end of the week everything’s still going good, it’s looking good for me” to play Sunday, Nicks said. New York travels to San Francisco in Week 10.
Analysis: Well it just went from encouraging to not so much for Nicks. It's still early in the week and Nicks has plenty of time to get ready for Week 10. The 49ers rank 22nd in the league in pass defense, giving up over 255 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 21.5 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. But now that he sat out makes him that more questionable for Sunday. It's a tough matchup for the Giants, but if Nicks is active, then start him in Fantasy.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who missed Week 9 with a hamstring injury, returned to practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 10 at San Francisco.
Analysis: This is a big step toward Nicks making his return to the lineup. As long as he continues to progress, then there is no reason to think he won't be back in the lineup for Week 10. It's a tough matchup for the Giants, but if Nicks is active, then start him in Fantasy.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin didn’t provide additional information on injured RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) and WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) during his press conference on Monday. “I know that they’re improving,” Coughlin said. “Again, it’s going to be how they feel [Tuesday] and to what extent they can do things with the trainers.” Coughlin said he will follow the staff’s recommendation regarding their availability for Week 10.
Analysis: Despite being slowed by an injury earlier this season, Nicks missed his first game of the year in Week 9 against New England because of the hamstring issue. Nicks sustained the injury during New York's win over over Miami in Week 8 and did not practice last week. He's certainly a talented player when he's on the field and is ninth in the NFL with an average of 82.1 yards per game. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status during practice this week to determine if he will be able to play against San Francisco.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was listed among the inactives for Week 9 against the Patriots. He was ruled out on Saturday after not being able to practice due to a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Jake Ballard will likely supply the added production for the Giants with Nicks out so owners might want to turn to them. Keep an eye on Nick's progress throughout the week to see if he will be able to return in Week 10 against the 49ers. When healthy, Nicks should be considered a solid Fantasy WR in the majority of formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) has been officially ruled out for the Week 9 Sunday game against the Patriots from New England on Saturday. Nicks' hamstring had him limited to working out on the stationary bike as late as Friday and he was ruled out for the game on Saturday.
Analysis: Nicks is now officially done for Week 9 and Fantasy owners will continue to look to Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Jake Ballard for added production. Fantasy owners of Nicks will have to reserve him at least for the Week 9 game.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) did not return to practice Friday, putting his status for Week 9 at New England in jeopardy. The Star-Ledger reported Nicks was working out on the stationary bike. Coach Tom Coughlin said Nicks is improving and is still day to day, but he is officially listed as doubtful.
Analysis: Missing the practice week doesn't assure Fantasy owners that Nicks will play Sunday or be at 100 percent, and his doubtful status doesn't help either. It's time for Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Jake Ballard owners to consider starting them Week 9. If Nicks is active, however, then he could be worth the risk this week. Check back for inactives on Sunday, but plan to use healthier alternatives.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who suffered a hamstring injury Week 8, did not return to practice Thursday, missing a second straight day. His status for Week 9 at New England remains up in the air. Coach Tom Coughlin did say Thursday that Nicks is "better." Nicks added that his hamstring is just strained and his playing status for Week 9 will "will come down to the last minute."
Analysis: The longer Nicks sits idle in practice, the more concerned we are about his status. The news came down Thursday that RB Ahmad Bradshaw is reportedly out indefinitely with a cracked bone in his foot, and New York would hate to be down another star offensive player on Sunday. But that might be the case if Nicks doesn't practice Friday. Continue to track his progress, but if Nicks is out Sunday, then Victor Cruz and Mario Manningham owners better be ready to get those players active. The Patriots enter Sunday ranked last in the league against the pass, giving up over 323 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 27.9 Fantasy points per week to opposing wideouts.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was held out of practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 at New England. Coach Tom Coughlin said Nicks remains "day to day" as he recovers from the hamstring injury he suffered Week 8. Coughlin added that Nicks is telling him all the right things and says he feels better, but the coach is taking a "we'll see" attitude leading up to Sunday's game. The Patriots enter Sunday ranked last in the league against the pass, giving up over 323 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 27.9 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: This might not be a good sign for Nicks, but Coughlin said Wednesday that WR Ramses Barden (PUP, ankle) will be pushed "a little harder" in practice this week. Barden would give New York depth at receiver if Nicks can't go, and it sounds as though that could be a real strong possibility. Fantasy owners need to track his progress all week because if he is active on Sunday, then you are going to play him in Fantasy with favorable matchup.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Monday that he hasn't received an update on WR Hakeem Nicks' status, but he expects him to be day to day leading up to Week 9 at New England. Nicks hurt his hamstring late in the win Week 8 vs. Miami. The Star-Ledger reports that a source with knowledge of Nicks' MRI told the paper that the injured receiver received good news about the results. The source described Nicks as "all good" and the plan is for him to suit up Week 9.
Analysis: If the report holds true, then Fantasy owners can breathe a sigh of relief. But hamstring injuries can be problematic, so Nicks' status will be followed closely. The Giants will hold out hope that Nicks will be active Week 9, but if not, then Mario Manningham, Victor Cruz and Jake Ballard will see a boost in Fantasy appeal this week. Continue to track Nicks' progress.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks left the game Week 8 against the Dolphins with a hamstring strain. He finished with six catches for 67 yards before getting hurt. Giants coach Tom Coughlin offered no update on Nicks' status at his postgame press conference. Nicks also is unsure how badly injured he is, but ESPN.com reports he will get an MRI on Monday. "It was late in the game, but I don't remember which play it was," Nicks said. "It felt like a cramp that didn't go anywhere in one spot in my hamstring, but we'll see how it feels in the morning."
Analysis: Nicks now has 65-plus yards in five of seven games this season. He is still one of Eli Manning's favorite targets. However, Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Jake Ballard are stealing targets from him on a consistent basis, so Nicks might not have monster games like he had in 2010. He is still a viable Fantasy start in all formats when healthy, so keep tabs on his status for Week 9 at New England.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks loves playing against the AFC. He has 23 catches for 282 yards and two touchdowns in his last three games against AFC opponents. On the docket in Week 8 is a matchup with AFC East opponent Miami -- his first ever matchup against them. The Dolphins are yielding 23 Fantasy points per week to WRs, which is 13th highest in the NFL. WRs have totaled eight touchdowns in six games against Miami.
Analysis: Nicks is having a productive October with 18 catches for 323 yards and two touchdowns in three games. Now that Mario Manningham is back, and Victor Cruz and Jake Ballard have stepped up as reliable targets, Nicks is getting favorable matchups. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 8.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught four passes for 96 yards in Week 6 against Buffalo. He was held without a touchdown for the first time in two weeks. Nicks was targeted seven times in the game, second only to fellow WR Mario Manningham.
Analysis: Nicks did much of his damage in Week 6 on one play. He caught a pass that went for 60 yards, but was caught from behind by a Bills defender near the end zone. The Giants were held without a touchdown pass in their 27-24 win. Nicks remains the team's biggest play maker in the passing game and, while opposing defenses should continue to focus extra attention his way, seems to always find a way make at least one big play per game. He's also one of the better red zone targets in the league at WR. Continue to view him as a must-start No. 1 WR, but owners will need to seek alternatives for Week 7 as he will be on a bye before returning in Week 8 against the Dolphins in what should be a very favorable matchup for him.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will be looking for a third consecutive game with a touchdown pass in Week 6 when he takes on the Bills. Buffalo has allowed 10 passing touchdowns this season, tied for third most in the NFL through five weeks. Buffalo ranks 26th in the NFL against the pass, allowing an average of 283.4 passing yards per game.
Analysis: On paper, this appears to be a very favorable matchup for Nicks. He isn't really a receiver Fantasy owners worry about matchups with, however. Nicks has caught a touchdown pass in three of his last four games and remains the top target in New York's pass offense. The recent emergence of Victor Cruz should help open things up for Nicks in the long term, with opposing defenses not able to double team Nicks as much. Consider Nicks a strong No. 1 WR option, in any format, for Week 6.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks scored his third touchdown of the season in Week 5 against the Seahawks, finding the end zone for a second consecutive week. Nicks finished the game with four catches for 65 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown in the second quarter.
Analysis: Nicks was targeted seven times in the game, four times fewer than Victor Cruz and two fewer than Mario Manningham. Cruz emerged as a top target in the fourth quarter for a second straight week, getting seven looks in the final 15 minutes. Cruz has emerged recently thanks partly to all the attention that Nicks attracts from opposing defenses. His emergence could help open things up for Nicks going forward, with Nicks remaining the team's top weapon in the passing game. He has dealt with a lingering knee issue the season, but was able to blow up for 10 catches, 162 yards and a score in Week 4 at Arizona in another example of his excellent upside. Continue to view him as a must-start in any league for Week 6 against Buffalo and beyond.
News: In Week 5, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will be up against a Seahawks pass defense that has allowed just two touchdowns to opposing wide receivers through the first four games of the season. In Week 4, they did not allow any to Falcons wide receivers. Nicks caught 10 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: On paper, this does not appear to be a very favorable matchup for Nicks. However, the Seahawks will be making a cross-country trip and playing in a time zone that they are not accustomed to. Add to that the emergence of Victor Cruz in the passing game to go alongside Nicks and Mario Manningham and Seattle may not be able to double team Nicks as much as opponents have been doing early on this season. Given Nicks' performance last week in Arizona and his upside as a high-end Fantasy WR, Fantasy owners should still view him as a solid No. 1 option this week despite Seattle's early success against receivers.
News: New York WR Hakeem Nicks was targeted a team-high 14 times in Week 4 against Arizona, catching 10 passes for 162 yards. His 29-yard touchdown grab int he fourth quarter gave the Giants the lead, 31-27, and the defense would hold for the win. Nicks had been dealing with swelling in his knee during the week, which limited him in practice.
Analysis: Nicks almost matched his season stats from the first three weeks with his performance on Sunday. The Giants face the Seahawks in Week 5, a team that has been allowing 236.5 passing yards and just three scores through the air this season. While it is a tough matchup, Nicks is the main target for Eli Manningand should be viewed as a solid WR option next week. Keep an eye on him though to make sure his knee is fine.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was back on the field on Sunday after he had swelling in his knee during the week. In his only meeting against Arizona, Nicks caught four passes for 80 yards and one score.
Analysis: The Cardinals are allowing WRs to average 25 Fantasy points per week. As long as Nicks can stay on the field, he should be able to have a solid outing. Get him active.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returned to practice Friday after sitting out Thursday because swelling in his knee and is listed as probable for Week 4 at Arizona. In his only meeting against Arizona, Nicks caught four passes for 80 yards and one score.
Analysis: Nicks didn't sound concerned about his injury on Thursday and the fact he practiced Friday means Fantasy owners should have confidence in starting Nicks in Week 4. The return of Mario Manningham from a concussion and the emergence of Victor Cruz likely means Nicks is in for a better game after a disappointing Week 3 since the Cardinals can't just focus on him. The Cardinals are allowing WRs to average 25 Fantasy points per week.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks wasn't practicing Thursday and coach Tom Coughlin revealed the receiver has swelling in his knee. However, Coughlin feels Nicks will play Week 4 at Arizona. Nicks said his knee was just slightly swollen, and that's why he missed practice. “It just flared up a little bit,” Nicks told reporters. “Take it one day at a time. I’m playing, though. It’s nothing that’s going to make me miss (the game).” Nicks was asked if he expects to miss a day of practice per week to account for his knee, but Nicks said he doesn't think that will be necessary. In his only meeting against Arizona, Nicks caught four passes for 80 yards and one score.
Analysis: Nicks dealt with a bruised knee leading up to Week 2 against the Rams and played, but late-week injuries are always concerning. Friday will be a big day for Nicks, so make sure to check back on his progress. Mario Manningham is expected to return Sunday, but if Nicks can't play, then the Giants surely have confidence in Victor Cruz after his breakout performance Week 3. If Nicks plays, then obviously he is a high-end Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was limited to just 25 yards in Week 3 at Philadelphia. He caught three passes, getting five passes thrown in his direction. The five targeted tied him among the team leaders.
Analysis: Nicks was never able to get much separation on an afternoon where Victor Cruz proved to be the hero with three grabs for 110 yards and two touchdowns. Mario Manningham being out with a concussion allowed the Eagles to key in on Nicks, the Giants' top receiving option and with Nnamdi Asomugha on him for much of the game he was unable to get much going. Nicks remains a high-end Fantasy option in the big picture, but he could find himself in more situations like this if Manningham isn't ready to return from his concussion soon. The Giants will travel to Arizona in Week 4.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will take on division rival Philadelphia in Week 3 on the road. Last season, Nicks caught six passes for 65 yards in Philly. Late in the season, at home, he caught six passes for 63 yards and a touchdown. Nicks has averaged 72.8 yards receiving over four career games against Philadelphia, scoring two touchdowns.
Analysis: Nicks has resumed his role as Eli Manning's top target in the offense so far this season. He opened up the year with a strong effort (7 catches, 122 yards) before being held to just 38 yards on four catches in Week 2 against St. Louis, though he did score. Eagles-Giants games have a tendency to be high-scoring, though, and we expect the ball to be in the air plenty unless the Giants get out ahead early. Nicks remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR going into this matchup.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to find the end zone in Week 2 against the Rams. Nicks, whose status was in question with a knee injury entering the contest, was on the receiving end of a 3-yard strike from Eli Manning in the first quarter, capping off a nine-play 39-yard drive. The key play on the drive was a pass interference call, which Nicks drew on Bradley Fletcher on a fourth down. He was targeted seven times in the 28-16 victory and finished with three receptions for 15 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was able to find the end zone on Monday night for the first time this season. However, he was relatively quiet after that. The Rams did a nice job of shadowing him for most of the night and his production was also hurt by the fact that the Giants led wire-to-wire and mostly ran the ball in the second half. Still, Nicks did give owners some points with his score and more importantly seemed to get through the contest without showing an ill-effects from his knee injury. Nicks and the Giants will now head to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles in Week 3. The Eagles only gave up 199 passing yards to the Falcons last Sunday night, but allowed four touchdowns through the air. While the Giants offense is clearly a work in progress, Nicks remains the teams top receiving option in the passing game and should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 3.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has been ruled active for Week 2 against the Rams. Nicks, who was limited in practice this week with a knee injury, caught seven passes for 122 yards during the season opener against Washington. St. Louis allowed 167 yards passing in Week 1.
Analysis: Nicks has been saying he was going to play all week and it looks like he will make good on his prediction. The 23-year-old got off to good start last week and has averaged 102.5 yards a game with two receiving touchdowns over his last two games on Monday Night Football. Fantasy owners should consider Nicks a No. 1 Fantasy WR against the Rams.
News: NFL Network reports Giants coach Tom Coughlin said he "feels good" about WR Hakeem Nicks (knee) being able to play Monday against the Rams.
Analysis: Kickoff is nearing and the reports have thus far been good about Nicks. But the doctors are ultimately going to make the final call. If Nicks can't go, then hopefully you added Domenik Hixon off waivers as a replacement option.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (knee) continued to be limited on Saturday in practice in preparation for Week 2 on Monday night against the Rams. Nicks, who is hoping to play on Monday, was officially listed as questionable for the game. "I'll be on the field," Nicks said on Friday.
Analysis: Nicks has an extra day to heal this week as the Giants don't play until Monday night. In our opinion, we'd expect to see the receiver on the field. That said, Fantasy owners will have to continue to monitor the situation. Fantasy owners should consider adding Domenik Hixon just in case Nicks sits out. While the Rams allowed just 167 yards passing in week 1 against Philadelphia, Nicks has averaged 102.5 yards a game with two receiving touchdowns over his last two games on Monday Night Football. Continue to monitor his status leading up to when inactives are announced on Monday evening. If healthy, Nicks can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR against the Rams.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (knee) went through individual drills on Friday after missing practice Wednesday and Thursday. He is hoping to play Week 2 against the Rams. "I'll be on the field," Nicks said. Coach Tom Coughlin said that the three-year veteran is "making progress." Coughlin added, "Doctors are inevitably going to make that call," but said Nicks will get a chance to voice his opinion on how his bruised bone feels. He sat out the team portion of practice Friday as a precaution. "They decided they’re not going to let me jump out there yet," he said. "They want me to get a full week of healing underneath my belt but I still look forward to playing Monday night."
Analysis: It's good the Giants have an extra day this week and don't play until Monday, which should give Nicks more time to rest. But that also means Fantasy owners might have to make a tough call in starting Nicks and perhaps adding Domenik Hixon as a backup plan just in case Nicks is inactive. While the Rams allowed just 167 yards passing in week 1 against Philadelphia, Nicks has averaged 102.5 yards a game with two receiving touchdowns over his last two games on Monday Night Football. Continue to monitor his status leading up to when inactives are announced on Monday evening. If healthy, Nicks can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR against the Rams.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks didn't return to practice Thursday because of a bruised knee. The Giants are preparing to play the Rams in Week 2 on Monday night. Nicks said he feels better and will attempt individual drills on Friday. “It responded good from (Wednesday),” he said. “The swelling went down, so it’s a matter of bearing the pain now. It’s not too bad. I don’t really feel as much pain, I’m fully extending now.” St. Louis gave up 167 yards passing in Week 1 and allowed 22 Fantasy points to Eagles QB Michael Vick.
Analysis: Nicks said Wednesday he is confident he will play Monday night, but he might not get the final say in this matter, so we will have to continue to track his progress. If he is good to go, then Fantasy owners are going to start the high-end Fantasy WR. But you do need to consider healthier alternatives in case Nicks ends up as questionable on the weekend injury report. Because the game is on Monday, then you could be taking a big risk by playing him in Week 2.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin held WR Hakeem Nicks (knee) out of practice on Wednesday as the team prepares for a Monday night game against the Rams in Week 2. Coughlin confirmed that Nicks has a bone bruise in his knee, but added he has "no idea" if Nicks will be ready to play this week. Coughlin did say that Nicks is "making pretty good progress." Nicks said he feels better and is confident he will play Monday. "I don't see myself not playing Monday night," Nicks said.
Analysis: Nicks got pretty banged up in Week 1, not only suffering a knee injury but also a wrist injury. Neither of them seem major, but it could be enough to keep Nicks sidelined in Week 2. If he is good to go, then Fantasy owners are going to start the high-end Fantasy WR. But you do need to consider healthier alternatives in case Nicks ends up as questionable on the weekend injury report. Because the game is on Monday, then you could be taking a big risk by playing him in Week 2. Stay tuned.
News: The New York Daily News reports Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has been diagnosed with a bone bruise on his injured knee. Nicks, who is also dealing with a wrist injury, underwent an MRI on Monday, which revealed no structural damage. However, his status for Week 2 against St. Louis remains in question.
Analysis: The good news is Nicks' knee injury is considered a bruise, but the bad news is his status for Week 2 remains very much in question. He is almost guaranteed to land on the injury report Wednesday, so Fantasy owners should continue and monitor his status throughout the week. Nicks led the team in receiving in Week 1 at the Redskins, totaling 122 yards receiving on seven catches. The 23-year-old can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats, when healthy.
News: Giants Rapid Reporter Alex Raskin reports that coach Tom Coughlin said on Monday that WR Hakeem Nicks is dealing with a knee injury following their Week 1 loss at the Redskins. He added that the team does not yet know the severity of the injury or what its exact nature is. Nicks was scheduled for further tests.
Analysis: Coughlin would not rule out Nicks missing time, but that will not be known until tests come back. There was a scare early in the game with what appeared to be a wrist injury, but he was able to play through it and precautionary X-rays after the game came back negative. Nicks led the team in receiving in Week 1 at the Redskins, totaling 122 yards receiving on seven catches. He was targeted 11 times. He remains a high-end Fantasy WR option, but will have to be monitored closely leading into Week 2 against the Rams. He will more than likely be on the team's injury report when it comes out. The good news is that he gets an extra day to recover with the Giants playing on Monday night.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks led the team in receiving in Week 1 at the Redskins, totaling 122 yards receiving on seven catches. He was targeted 11 times in the game. He appeared to hurt his wrist on a fall early in the game, but was able to play on. He underwent X-rays after the game that came back negative.
Analysis: Nicks did a lot of the damage on a 68-yard bomb, but he was the team's only real effective weapon on offense in a frustrating opening performance. The team has several question marks in the passing game, but Nicks is not one of them. In fact, the loss of players like Steve Smith and Kevin Boss this offseason could mean more looks his way. Barring any setbacks with the wrist, he should remain a must-start in Fantasy for Week 2 against the Rams.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks missed both matchups against the Redskins last season due to injury, but he'll head into the season opener at Washington healthy and ready to contribute. Nicks will face a Redskins team that last season held the Giants to 440 yards passing and one passing touchdown over two games last year.
Analysis: Nicks scored 11 touchdowns in 13 games in a breakout second season in 2010, so he could be just what the team needs break open a secondary that was particularly tough against them last season. With Steve Smith and Kevin Boss out of the picture, expect to see more targets for both Nicks and Mario Manningham this season. Despite this not being a matchup that screams big game for Nicks, he is a player that goes into the season above matchup-based, strategical use in most formats. Consider him a solid play in any league.
News: Working out with teammates on a high school field in New Jersey, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks told the Newark Star-Ledger that he's feeling healthy and would be ready to play if the season were to start now. Nicks also said he's added a little muscle and could "lower that shoulder a little bit" to take on defenders after the catch. Ultimately, Nicks is happy just to get back to catching passes from QB Eli Manning. "I feel like we're getting our timing back down. It's our first week linking up a little bit," Nicks said. "I think guys are just trying to get back in the groove of things and get that connection back. ... Extra time is always good. I always try to put in extra time whenever I can."
Analysis: Nicks is looking better and better to us. There are slight injury concerns with Nicks, but the big man has established himself as the best threat on the Giants and has all kinds of potential, even after catching 79 passes for 1,052 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. Nicks is worth a pick after the likes of Andre Johnson, Calvin Johnson and Roddy White are off the board on Draft Day -- figure Nicks to go off between 20th and 30th overall in all leagues.
News: As expected Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has officially been ruled inactive for Week 17 against the Redskins. Nicks broke his toe in last week's loss to Green Bay and was not able to practice this week. He finished with 79 receptions for 1052 yards and 11 touchdowns on the season.
Analysis: Nicks had a breakout season for the Giants in his second year in the league and emerged as a legitimate Fantasy superstar. Normally most WRs breakout in their third season, so Nicks actually could get even better next season. Still, Fantasy owners would be more than happy if Nicks was able duplicate this year's numbers next season and he can be considered a starting Fantasy WR heading into 2011.
News: The Giants ruled WR Hakeem Nicks (broken big toe) out on Friday for Week 17 at Washington.
Analysis: Nicks had 93 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 and ranks seventh among WRs in standard Fantasy leagues. When healthy, Nicks is a must-start Fantasy option, but with the Giants needing a win and some help to get into the playoffs, we might not see him again until 2011, where he will remain a No. 1 Fantasy WR option.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (broken big toe) was absent from practice for a second straight day Thursday. New York visit Washington in Week 17.
Analysis: Nicks had 93 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 and ranks seventh among WRs in standard Fantasy leagues coming into the final game of the season. Hopefully Nicks can play through this injury, as the Giants will need him if they're going to sneak into the playoffs on Sunday, but coach Tom Coughlin wasn't too positive about Nicks' status on Wednesday. When healthy, Nicks is a must-start Fantasy option, so pay close attention to his status on Friday if your league runs through Week 17.
News: The Giants announced Wednesday that WR Hakeem Nicks has a broken big toe on his left foot. When asked if Nicks will play this Sunday, against the Redskins, coach Tom Coughlin said, "I doubt it."
Analysis: Nicks had 93 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 and ranks seventh among WRs in standard Fantasy leagues coming into the final game of the season. Hopefully Nicks can play through this injury, as the Giants will need him if they're going to sneak into the playoffs on Sunday. When healthy, Nicks is a must-start Fantasy option, so pay close attention to his status over the next three days of practice if your league runs through Week 17.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks notched 93 receiving yards and scored a touchdown on four receptions in New York's 45-17 loss to Green Bay in Week 16 on Sunday. With his sixth 90-plus yardage effort, Nicks surpassed 1,000 yards in a season for the first time in his career and added to his career high with his 11th score. Nicks, who reached the end zone for the second week in a row, was targeted a team-high nine times by QB Eli Manning but just three times in the entire second half. The second-year standout now has 79 receptions for 1,052 yards this season.
Analysis: Most of Nicks' receptions came in large chunks of yards as he connected with Manning on three passes of 18 yards or more, including his 36-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. Nicks shined in the first half, finishing with 66 yards on three receptions and teasing Fantasy owners who were expecting a big finish for the emerging wideout. But Manning struggled immensely after halftime and threw three interceptions while connecting with Nicks just once on a 27-yard play. Nick didn't receive a target in the fourth quarter as the Giants attempted to rally from a 14-point deficit. Still, he is too talented to consider benching in Week 17 against a poor Washington team. Consider him a top Fantasy option against the Redskins.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will attempt to reach 1,000 yards for the first time in his career in Week 16 against Green Bay on Sunday. Nicks has tallied 13 receptions for 159 yards in his last two weeks since missing a pair of games because of a lower leg injury. Nicks, in his second season with New York, has averaged at least 10.5 yards per catch in his last six outings and is posting an average of 12.8 yards for the season. Despite the decent yardage total, he has just one touchdown since his return after recording nine scores in his first 10 weeks of the season.
Analysis: Nicks has had a breakout Fantasy season this year -- nine games with at least five receptions -- and will be hoping to quickly reach the milestone as the Giants battle for a playoff spot. Green Bay will be countering with an imposing defense that is allowing just 192.4 passing yards per game this season. The Packers are limiting opposing receivers to just 15.0 Fantasy points per game (third in the NFL) and just two wideouts have reached 100 yards against them in a game. Still, when healthy, Nicks has been sensational and is Giants QB Eli Manning's favorite target. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 16.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught his first touchdown pass in seven weeks in Week 15 against the Eagles. He finished the game with six catches for 63 yards in his second game back from a two-game absence due to Compartment Syndrome in his lower leg. Nicks caught an 8-yard touchdown pass with four second left in the first half for his first touchdown catch since Week 9 in Seattle.
Analysis: Nicks saw the second most targets on the team behind Mario Manningham. They figure to be the team's top two pass targets the rest of the way with Steve Smith out for the remainder of the season. Both have big-play ability, but Nicks has been the most consistent of the two and remains a strong No. 2 WR option for Week 16. Beware of a tough matchup in what is likely to be less than optimal playing conditions in Week 16 at Green Bay, however.
News: With the news that WR Steve Smith will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury, the Giants will now face the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 15 in the showdown for first place in the NFC East with Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham being Eli Manning's prime targets, and Derek Hagan, Michael Clayton and Devin Thomas filling in when the team uses three- or four-receiver packages. Nicks returned to the lineup on Monday after missing two games with a lower leg injury and said he was sore on Wednesday. The burden will fall on Nicks, who had seven catches for 96 yards against the Vikings in Week 14. His nine touchdown receptions lead the team. "I don't feel like it puts more pressure on me," he said. "I just have to rise up to the occasion. Mario Manningham will step up, Derek Hagan will step up. I'm just going to continue to hold it down on my part."
Analysis: Nicks has never experienced a win against Philadelphia in his first three games against them, so you know he wants to put on a good show in Week 15. He is averaging 76 yards per game in his career against Philadelphia, including a 65-yard performance in Week 11, when he suffered the leg injury. Teams are likely going to put extra coverage on Nicks until the other Giants receivers step up, but it does help his cause if Eagles DB Asante Samuel remains sidelined in Week 15 with a knee injury. Since Nicks will be Manning's top target it's still worth using him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was fairly productive in Week 14 against the Vikings. Nicks, who was playing for the first time in two weeks, was targeted nine times in the 31-3 victory and finished with a team-high seven receptions for 96 yards. He averaged 13.7 yards per reception and had a long of 30 yards. Nicks did come up limping in the third quarter after Eli Manning tried to hit him on a streak route down the sideline. He was seen stretching his leg out on the sideline, but was able to return to action and finish the game.
Analysis: Nicks looked pretty sharp on Monday and his return should be provide a huge boost to the Giants offense. He is New York's big-play receiver as he has posted four 100-yard receiving performances this season and racked up nine touchdowns on the season. His mere presence on the field forces defenses to shift their coverage to his side of the field, which opens things up for everyone else. While Fantasy owners most of been holding their breathe when Nicks came limping off the field in the third quarter, he appears to be OK and should be good to go next Sunday against the Eagles. Continue to monitor his status this week just to be on the safe side. Nicks had six receptions for 65 yards in his first meeting against the Eagles this season and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 15.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has officially been ruled active for Week 14 against the Vikings. Nicks has missed the previous two games with due to Compartment Syndrome in his lower leg, but was able to practice this week. The Vikings are allowing opposing WRs to average 21 Fantasy points per week.
Analysis: Nicks will play on Monday, however, it remains unclear exactly how many snaps he will actually see. Some reports surfaced on Saturday saying the former Tar Heel wouldn't be able to play, but obviously that it not the case. He might have been helped out by the extra time gained with the game being moved from Sunday to Monday night because of the stadium issues in Minneapolis. He will likely be matched up against cornerback Asher Allen, which should be a solid matchup for him. Treat Nicks like a No. 2 Fantasy WR against Minnesota.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has officially been ruled active for Week 14 against the Vikings. Nicks has missed the previous two games with due to Compartment Syndrome in his lower leg, but was able to practice this week. The Vikings are allowing opposing WRs to average 21 Fantasy points per week.
Analysis: Nicks will play on Monday, however, it remains unclear exactly how many snaps he will actually see. Some reports surfaced on Saturday saying the former Tar Heel wouldn't be able to play, but obviously that it not the case. He might have been helped out by the extra time gained the game being moved from Sunday to Monday night because of the stadium issues in Minneapolis. He will likely be matched up against cornerback Asher Allen, which should be a solid matchup for him. Treat Nicks like a No. 2 Fantasy WR against Minnesota.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (lower leg) has been ruled out for the Week 14 game against the Vikings, according to NFL Network. But since they broadcasted his status, several New York media outlets have reported otherwise. Most say he is still listed as questionable heading into Sunday. The WR could miss his third straight game despite saying he was going to play on Friday.
Analysis: Nicks was originally scheduled to miss about three weeks, so him missing the game on Sunday would not be a big surprise. Still, throughout the week it seemed like he was looking better and better. The conflicting reports can have something to due with the team being stuck in Kansas City overnight because of a blizzard in Minneapolis. Now the game has been moved to Monday night, so Nicks will get an extra day of rest to see if he can play. Regardless of report, we will officially know his status 90 minutes before kickoff. Stay tuned.
News:Hakeem Nicks practiced again Friday, improving his chances of playing at Minnesota in Week 14. In fact, Newsday reported that he lined up as the starting receiver in drills against the scout team. Nicks has been sidelined for two games due to Compartment Syndrome in his lower leg and would return a week earlier than expected. Nicks said earlier this week that a lot would depend on how the wound in his leg held up in practice. A decision is expected by Saturday before the team takes their flight to Minneapolis. He's listed as questionable on the team's injury report, but he says he's ready to play Sunday, but admits it isn't his decision to make. Nicks had half of the stitches removed from his calf but says he can't really feel any difference.
Analysis: Things are looking up for Nicks' owners. The key here is whether or not Nicks is comfortable running, jumping, cutting, etc. You'd think that he is comfortable doing all of those things given his work in practice this week and that he's working with the first-team offense. The matchup is right for him against the Vikings, who are allowing WRs to average 21 Fantasy points per week, but it remains to be seen just how much playing time he gets. He'll see a lot of Vikings cornerback Asher Allen if he plays, and that's a solid matchup for him. Treat Nicks like a No. 2 Fantasy WR if he's active -- we'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (leg) practiced again Thursday as New York continued preparations for its Week 14 game at Minnesota. Nicks, who has a team-high nine touchdown catches, has missed the last two games after having a surgical procedure to relieve pressure caused by Compartment Syndrome in his lower leg. Nicks said Thursday that half his stitches have been removed but that he won't get cleared until Saturday. But coach Tom Coughlin said Nicks is "on track" to return Week 14. “Yeah, on track,” Nicks said. “Everything’s going good. The wound looked good (to the doctor). They’ll wait until the end of the week to decide. So I won’t know until Saturday.”
Analysis: Nicks is ahead of schedule in his return from this injury which could clearly have been a lot nastier if it hadn't been taken care of when it was discovered. We'll have to wait and see how he progresses this week before suggesting him as a Week 14 Fantasy option, because he was supposed to miss at least three weeks of action, and he's only missed two thus far. When healthy, Nicks is a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (Compartment Syndrome) said he took three or four snaps per offensive period at practice Wednesday and didn't have any pain or complications. Nicks, who has a team-high nine touchdown catches, has missed the last two games after having a surgical procedure to relieve pressure in his lower leg. He ran for the first time on Monday and took part in 60 percent of the plays in practice. "My mentality is if I'm practicing, I'm playing," Nicks said.
Analysis: Nicks was only scheduled to start running on Wednesday, but he clearly did a little more than that by getting involved in some plays. We'll have to wait and see how he progresses this week before suggesting him as a Week 14 Fantasy option, because he was supposed to miss at least three weeks of action, and he's only missed two thus far. When healthy, Nicks is a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Giants head coach Tom Coughlin said Monday that he expects WR Hakeem Nicks to start running this week but didn't make any promises about him playing at Minnesota in Week 14. Nicks is recovering from surgery to fix Compartment Syndrome in his leg. “I know he’s going to start to run,” Coughlin said of Nicks. “I don’t know that that means he’s going to be able to practice.”
Analysis: Owners have had a replacement for Nicks in their lineups for a few weeks now, so there shouldn't be a serious rush to find help now. Expect Nicks to miss Week 14 and thus go with a different receiver in his place. Nicks should remain benched in all leagues.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (leg) was officially inactivated for Week 13 against the Redskins, as expected. He had been ruled out on the team's injury report. Nicks saw doctors on Wednesday and is was reportedly said to be making "good progress." Nicks, however, isn't ready to start running yet.
Analysis: Nicks was expected to miss three weeks of action with this Compartment Syndrome, Week 14 is not likely for Nicks as well. He was playing at an elite level before getting hurt and would likely be worth activating in all leagues again against the Vikings, but Fantasy owners should not be counting on that for now.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (lower leg) saw doctors Wednesday and is making "good progress," coach Tom Coughlin said. Nicks, however, isn't ready to start running yet, Coughlin added. Nicks has been ruled out for Week 13 against the Redskins.
Analysis: Nicks was expected to miss three weeks of action with this Compartment Syndrome, but a Week 14 return would mean he missed only a couple of games. Nicks was playing at an elite level before getting hurt and would likely be worth activating in all leagues again against the Vikings, but we'll have to see how he progresses over the next 7-10 days.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (leg) said Wednesday it's "realistic" that he could return for New York's Week 14 game against Minnesota. Nicks will get another doctor evaluation Wednesday evening and expects to start running in a week once the wound heals up.
Analysis: Nicks was expected to miss three weeks of action with this Compartment Syndrome, but a Week 14 return would mean he missed only a couple of games. Nicks was playing at an elite level before getting hurt and would likely be worth activating in all leagues again against the Vikings, but we'll have to see how he progresses over the next 7-10 days.
News: As anticipated, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (leg) was listed as inactive for Week 12 against Jacksonville. He had already been ruled out on the injury report. Nicks is dealing with Compartment Syndrome in his lower right leg, an injury that is expected to sideline him for three weeks.
Analysis: Nicks had emerged as one of the top young receivers in the NFL -- and Fantasy Football -- prior to getting hurt. He should remain stashed away where possible in the hopes that he can come back in time to help Fantasy owners for what could be Fantasy championship scenarios, but he will not be helping owners for at least another couple of weeks.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks' (lower leg) procedure went well, coach Tom Coughlin said Wednesday. "He's optimistic about a speedy recovery," Coughlin said. Nicks' supposed timetable is three weeks, he has already been ruled out for the Week 12 game against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Nicks' absence will hurt many Fantasy owners who have ridden his production throughout the season. Stash him away in all formats and just hope that he can come back in enough time to possibly help you to a Fantasy title.
News: The Giants announced Monday that WR Hakeem Nicks will miss three weeks with Compartment Syndrome in his lower right leg. Compartment Syndrome involves potential nerve and muscle tissue damage and often is consistent with swelling in the forearm or lower right leg. Nicks suffered the injury late in the team's game on Sunday night at Philadelphia. Nicks was targeted nine times in the Week 11 loss but had just 65 yards on six catches as he dealt with quality cornerback Asante Samuel for much of the matchup. Derek Hagan is expected to step up in Nicks' place.
Analysis: If you own Nicks, get your waiver claims ready to pick up Hagan since he'll see playing time while Nicks is out. Not that we expect Hagan to pick up Nicks' stats seamlessly, but he should see a good amount of targets for the next few games. With the Jaguars coming to New Jersey this weekend, Hagan appears as a great sleeper for Week 12. As for Nicks, keep him benched in all leagues.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to produce despite having to deal with CB Asante Samuel for most of the night in the Week 11 loss to the Eagles. Although Samuel was able to intercept two of QB Eli Manning's passes, Nicks was able to haul in six of them for 65 yards to lead the Giants. Manning targeted him a team-high nine times in the defeat.
Analysis: Nicks was able to produce with Samuel on him, but he was not able to find the end zone for the second straight week. The good news for Fantasy owners is that Nicks has not gone three straight games without a score this year. In Week 12, he will try to make good on that trend against the Jaguars, who have allowed five different WRs to reach the 100-yard mark against them through ten games. We expect Nicks to join that group next week. Consider him to be a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has been consistent all year, but in the last three games he has averaged six catches, 106 yards and a touchdown. In the Week 11 game against the Eagles, the Giants will again be without WR Steve Smith (chest), so Nicks could see more targets than usual. Philadelphia ranks 16th in the NFL against the pass and they have allowed just two WRs to eclipse the 100-yard mark. In two games against the Eagles in 2009, Nicks caught eight passes for 163 yards and a TD.
Analysis: Nicks faces an Eagles unit that continues to blitz on third down, relying on their CBs in man coverage. DBs Asante Samuel and Dimitri Patterson both stand a slim 5-10, while Nicks, at 6-1, 215 could take advantage of the hot-reads between he and QB Eli Manning in blitzing situations. His ability to beat coverage deep or catch it short and stretch it into a big gain have to alter the way the Eagles defend him. If not, Nicks could be on his way to a big game on Sunday night. Consider him to be a solid No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 11.
News: The patchwork offensive line has finally doomed the Giants. Guard Kevin Boothe's holding call nullified WR Hakeem Nicks' 48-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter. Nicks was targeted eight times, catching five passes for 82 yards. He also had another pass from Eli Manning bounce off his hands as he cut across the middle of the field. Between that miscue and the penalty, Nicks could have had another 70 yards receiving. The Giants were without Steve Smith as well, which normally takes some pressure off Nicks. Coach Tom Coughlin was critical of Nicks' route running, particularly one pattern that Nicks failed to complete. "You can’t do that," Coughlin said. "You continue to run the route, run through the defender, do whatever u have to do."
Analysis: Nicks has 43 catches for 566 yards through 10 weeks this year, but has found the end zone just four times. Penalties always seem to hurt the teams, which in turn hurts Fantasy teams as well. Heading into Week 11, the Giants face the Eagles for the first time this year. Philadelphia gives up 214.9 passing yards per contest (entering Week 10), so owners should view Nicks as a No. 1 WR option. With Smith expected to miss another game, Nicks should be Eli Manning's top target.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has gone over 100 yards receiving in four of his last five games -- one being against the Cowboys. He had nine catches for 108 yards and two touchdowns back on Oct. 25. He's got 38 catches for 484 yards and five touchdowns through those games. Even after rolling his ankle last week, Nicks remains positive he'll be fine for Week 10 and the rematch with Dallas. Nicks said it’s “nothing serious.” “He didn’t have a lot of swelling so he has been able to play through it,” coach Tom Coughlin said. The Cowboys are allowing 214.4 passing yards per game this year, and allowed Eli Manning to throw for four touchdowns in the last outing.
Analysis: Nicks and his coach both say he'll be OK for Week 10, and the Giants are rolling. They've won five in a row, which Nicks can receive some of that credit for the current streak. With Dallas dealing with a coaching change and just being bad this season, Nicks will have a chance to continue his trend of 100 yard games. He is a No. 1 Fantasy WR option as he continues to be Manning's No. 1 target.
News: Even though Giants WR Hakeem Nicks rolled his ankle against Seattle, he should be fine for Sunday. “He didn’t have a lot of swelling so he has been able to play through it,” coach Tom Coughlin said Thursday. Nicks said it’s “nothing serious.”
Analysis: Nicks has been a Fantasy stud this season, going over the century mark in receiving yards in four of his last five games. He has five touchdowns during the Giants' five-game winning streak and will look to keep it rolling when he faces the Cowboys in Week 10. Nicks had 108 yards receiving and a pair of touchdowns in their first meeting this season and should be considered a must-start in all formats, as long as he is healthy.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said on Monday that WR Hakeem Nicks has a lateral ankle sprain. Nicks suffered the injuring during the third quarter of Week 9 against the Seahawks after being tackled on a screen pass. He finished with six receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown on Sunday.
Analysis: Nicks said after the game that his ankle felt fine and actually said that it felt better on Monday. Fantasy owners should monitor his status this upcoming week just to be safe. Nicks continues to establish himself as a Fantasy stud and has gone over the century mark in receiving yards in four of his last five games. He has five touchdowns during the Giants' five-game winning streak and will look to keep it rolling when he faces the Cowboys in Week 10. Nicks had 108 yards receiving and a pair of touchdowns in their first meeting this season and should be considered a must-start in all formats, as long as he is healthy.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks recorded fourth 100-yard receiving game of the season in Week 9 against the Seahawks. Nicks was targeted a team-high 13 times in the 41-7 win and finished with six receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown. He was on the receiving end of a 46-yard strike from Eli Manning right down the middle of the field to put New York up 14-0. However, Nicks did appear to suffer a minor ankle injury during the second half. Late in the third quarter, Nicks rolled his ankle while being tackled on a screen pass. He was very slow to get up, but did leave under his own power and was seemed fine on the sideline.
Analysis: Nicks said after the game that is ankle is fine and he could have returned to the game if he was needed. Why he was still in the game at that point seems a little strange to us, but at least it appears this is nothing more than a minor injury. Still, Fantasy owners should monitor his status this upcoming week just to be safe. Nicks continues to establish himself as a Fantasy stud and has gone over the century mark in receiving yards in four of his last five games. He has five touchdowns during the Giants' five-game winning streak and will look to keep it rolling when he faces the Cowboys in Week 10. Nicks had 108 yards receiving and a pair of touchdowns in their first meeting this season and should be considered a must-start in all formats at this point.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks aims for his fourth 100-yard performance in five games in Week 9 against the Seahawks. The last time Nicks took the field in Week 7 against the Cowboys he produced his third multi-touchdown performance of the season. The Seahawks have not allowed a receiver to score twice this season and have given up just five touchdowns to receivers in seven games. Although, they have allowed two receivers -- Johnny Knox and Darrius Heyward-Bey -- to break 100 yards. The Seahawks are allowing opposing WRs to average 21 Fantasy points per week, which is 11th highest in the NFL.
Analysis: Nicks is having one heck of a second NFL season and he still has nine games left to play. He has definitely replaced Plaxico Burress as Eli Manning's go-to-target. Even if teams try to lock down on Nicks, the Giants still have Mario Manningham and Steve Smith, so opposing defenses really can't lock down on one receiver. Nicks has emerged as a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who was listed as questionable coming into the game with a hamstring injury, had a monster performance in Week 7 against the Cowboys. Nicks was targeted a team-high 14 times and wound up with nine receptions for 108 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the 41-35 win. Both of Nick's touchdown passes came in the first half. He was on the receiving end of a 7-yard strike from Eli Manning in the first quarter and an 8-yarder in the second quarter, which capped off a seven-play, 80-yard scoring drive. He averaged 12 yards per reception and has now caught four touchdowns over his last three games.
Analysis: Nicks had another standout performance on Monday and showed no lingering effects of his fatigued hamstring. He has clearly established himself as New York's big-play threat and has become a favorite target of Manning's. The former Tar Heel has gone over the century mark in receiving yards in three of his last four games and has caught at least two touchdowns in three of his seven games this season. Nicks has officially established himself as a Fantasy stud and is developing into one of the top-tier receivers in the league. The Giants have a bye in Week 8 before traveling out west to face Seattle in Week 9. Nicks should be considered a must-start against the Seahawks in two weeks.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) has officially been ruled active for Week 7 against the Cowboys. Nicks, who said his hamstring injury was brought on by fatigue, did not practice on Friday, but was able to practice on Saturday without suffering any setbacks.
Analysis: Nicks will apparently give it go against the Cowboys on Monday. However, Fantasy owners should keep in mind just because he is playing doesn't mean he is 100 percent. Nicks has six receiving touchdowns on the season and has the ability to to put up 100 yards in any given week. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns. Nicks should be active in most Fantasy formats but continue to keep tabs on his health right up to when inactives are announced.
News: According to NFL.com, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) is expected to start against the Cowboys. Nicks, who said his hamstring injury was brought on by fatigue, did not practice on Friday, but was able to practice on Saturday without suffering any setbacks.
Analysis: Nicks will apparently give it go against the Cowboys on Monday. However, Fantasy owners should keep in mind just because he is expected to play doesn't mean he is 100 percent. Nicks has six receiving touchdowns on the season and has the ability to to put up 100 yards in any given week. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns. Nicks should be active in most Fantasy formats but continue to keep tabs on his health right up to when inactives are announced.
News: Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who is expected to be a game-time decision for the Week 7 Monday night game in Dallas with a hamstring injury, has not experienced any setbacks through the week of practice, reports the New York Post on Monday. Nicks is expected to play against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Nicks just got back to limited practice on Saturday but is apparently going to give it a go in the game. That doesn't mean he's 100 percent, mind you. After Sunday, Nicks sits tied for second in the NFL among wide receivers in touchdowns with six. One more in the Monday night game would tie him once again for the league lead. He definitely has not been consistent this season but he has the ability to put up 100 yards in any given week. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns. Nicks should be active in most Fantasy formats but continue to keep tabs on his healthy right up to when inactives are announced.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks made the trip to Dallas but is still listed as questionable for Monday night's game against the Cowboys. Nicks, who did not practice on Friday was limited in practice on Saturday. He will be a game-time decision tonight.
Analysis: Nicks remains tied for the NFC lead with six receiving touchdowns heading into Week 7. He definitely has not been consistent this season but he has the ability to put up 100 yards in any given week. Eli Manning is going to find ways to get him the football. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns. Nicks should be active in most Fantasy formats if active.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) was limited in practice on Saturday in preparation for the Monday night game against Dallas in Week 7. This is a step in the right direction as Nicks was unable to practice on Friday with a fatigued hamstring. Nicks has said from the beginning that he plans on playing against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Nicks totaled a season-low 8 yards in Week 6 against Detroit and will look to put up big numbers once again on the big Monday night stage. In his only game against the Cowboys in 2009, Nicks totaled two catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. Nicks remains tied for the NFC lead with six receiving touchdowns heading into Week 7. He definitely has not been consistent this season but he has th ability to put up 100 yards in any given week. Eli Manning is going to find ways to get him the football. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns. Nicks should be active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks sat out practice Friday with a hamstring injury he says was brought on by fatigue, but he said he will definitely play Monday night against the Cowboys. After totaling a season-low 8 yards in Week 6 against the Lions, Nicks will look to erase that memory with a big performance against Dallas. In his only game against the Cowboys in 2009, Nicks totaled two catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. Nicks remains tied for the NFC lead with six receiving touchdowns heading into Week 7.
Analysis: Nicks has been all over the place this season with his performances. It's no surprise that he was double-teamed a lot in Week 6 after back-to-back 100-yard performances. But the Giants have a lot of other quality receivers, so Nicks want always have down games like Week 6. Eli Manning is going to find ways to get him the football. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns against Dallas. Keep Nicks active in all Fantasy formats for Week 7 as long as he's healthy enough to play, which he should be.
News: After totaling a season-low 8 yards in Week 6 against the Lions, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will look to erase that memory with a big performance in Week 7 against the Cowboys. In his only game against the Cowboys in 2009, Nicks totaled two catches for 37 yards and one touchdown. Nicks remains tied for the NFC lead with six receiving touchdowns heading into Week 7.
Analysis: Nicks has been all over the place this season with his performances. It's no surprise that he was double-teamed a lot in Week 6 after back-to-back 100-yard performances. But the Giants have a lot of other quality receivers, so Nicks want always have down games like Week 6. Eli Manning is going to find ways to get him the football. The Cowboys are allowing WRs to average 19 Fantasy points per week, which is middle of the road. They have not allowed a 100-yard receiver in 2010, but five WRs have scored touchdowns against Dallas. Keep Hicks active in all Fantasy formats for Week 7.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was held to just eight yards on three catches in Week 6 against Detroit. In Week 5 against Houston, he caught a team-high 12 passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns, but the Lions did a great job of keeping him frustrated in this game. After having 17 passes thrown his way in Week 5, he had seven thrown his way in Week 6.
Analysis: Nicks was in a very physical battle all afternoon with Lions DB Chris Houston, even getting into it several times after plays were over. The Giants also seemed intent on not being so over-reliant on Nicks after looking his way almost exclusively a week earlier, so Steve Smith saw a lot of passes come his way early and often. Nicks has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues (he was active in 100 percent of CBSSports.com leagues for Week 6), so he has to qualify as one of the week's biggest disappointments in Fantasy. Expect the Giants to try to get him back on track in Week 7 against the Cowboys on the road. He'll continue to have a heavy amount of passes go his way and remains a great play in all leagues despite how mad at him you have been after this performance.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks should see more attention after his 12-catch performance against the Texans in Week 5. Nicks said that he and QB Eli Manning “know nine times out of 10” when he is facing single coverage and Nicks’ production may depend Manning’s ability to get him the ball in those situations. The Lions rank 24th in the NFL against the pass, allowing 235.4 passing yards per game. They have allowed eight touchdown passes in five games, including five to opposing wide receivers.
Analysis: Last week, Rams receiver Danny Amendola caught 12 passes for 95 yards against the Lions. Donald Driver, Greg Jennings, Percy Harvin, DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin have each caught a touchdown pass against the Lions, a list of receivers that all rank behind Nicks in overall Fantasy points to date as Nicks is tied for the lead with Brandon Lloyd of the Broncos. Nicks has emerged as a favorite target of Eli Manning's this season and is a must-start in all formats for Week 6 and likely beyond.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks knows that teams will play him differently after his 12-catch, 130-yard, two-touchdown performance against Houston in Week 5. “You probably could expect that a little bit,” he said. “At the same time, we’ve got (WR) Steve Smith and (WR) Mario Manningham on the other side too.”
Analysis: Nicks has put together back-to-back 100-yard games and looks to be Eli Manning's new go-to-receiver. Even when Houston started to cheat Nicks' way in Week 5, Manning still threw the ball his way. Fantasy owners probably keep anticipating the bottom falling out for Nicks, but with the start he has had, he might be the real deal. Keep Nicks active in all Fantasy formats heading into Week 6 against the Lions.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks had the most productive afternoon of his career in Week 5 at Houston. He caught a team-high 12 passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns in a 34-10 drubbing of the Texans and had 17 passes thrown his way. Nicks' day could have been even more productive had he not dropped what could have been a long touchdown pass in the second quarter. He was also forced out of bounds on the 1-yard line, coming close to another touchdown. While it easy to think of what could have been: possibly four touchdowns and near 200 yards, his overall numbers were more than enough. For Nicks, both the 12 receptions and 130 yards were career highs.
Analysis: Nicks was a factor early and often as the Giants and QB Eli Manning seemed to throw just about every pass his way in the first quarter. Nicks has six touchdowns now in five games with Manning looking his way more each game. It is clear that Nicks is the team's big-play threat, but he's starting to see more targets than Steve Smith, a sign that he is becoming more than just a down-field option in the offense. The second-year receiver has been one of the top scorers in Fantasy at his position and will be up against one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL in Week 6 against Detroit. He should remain active in all leagues.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who had a career-high eight catches in Week 4 against the Bears, remains tied for the NFC lead with four receiving touchdowns heading into Week 5 against the Texans. He hasn't scored in two games and looks to snap his scoring slump against Houston. The Texans didn't allowed a wide receiver to score a touchdown in Week 4 against the Raiders, but TE Zach Miller scored and Houston has allowed eight passing touchdowns this season. It also comes into Week 5 ranked dead last in pass defense (337.8 ypg).
Analysis: Wide receivers have done quite well against the Houston secondary in 2010. Five WRs have at least 88 or more yards and three WRs have found the end zone against Houston. Nicks is becoming quite the big-time receiver for the Giants and should be started in all Fantasy formats for Week 5. This is a very favorable matchup for him.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks had his first 100-yard receiving game of the season in Week 4 against the Bears. Nicks caught eight passes for 110 yards, including a 21-yarder in the third quarter that led to the Giants first touchdown. He was targeted a team-high nine times and averaged 13.8 yards per reception. His long went for 30 yards but he did not score in the 17-3 win.
Analysis: Nicks has gotten off to great start this season. He has posted 21 receptions for 279 yards and four touchdowns over the first four games and has helped fill the void left by WR Plaxico Burress. He still loses targets to Steve Smith and Mario Manningham, but has seemed to become a favorite target of Eli Manning. Nicks faces a favorable matchup in Week 5 as the Giants take on the Texans. Houston has struggled to defend the pass this season, so Nicks and the Giants passing attack could be in line for a big day. Consider Nicks a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into Week 5.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks is tied with Austin Collie and Jeremy Maclin for the league lead with four receiving touchdowns. However, Week 3 against the Titans was the first time Nicks failed to score this season. He looks to get back into the end zone in Week 4 against the Bears. He does have five receiving touchdowns in his last five home games. Chicago has allowed just one receiver -- Greg Jennings -- to score this season, but it has allowed WRs to rack up 41 catches for 489 yards.
Analysis: The Giants drafted Nicks in the first round in 2009 to be a potential replacement for WR Plaxico Burress. With the way he is starting off the 2010 season, it seems he has arrived in that role. Nicks still loses targets and catches to Steve Smith and Mario Manningham among other players, but as long as he is racking up the TDs, then he is very useful in Fantasy. Consider Nicks a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 4.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who once again started opposite WR Steve Smith, saw the second most passes thrown his way by QB Eli Manning in Week 3 against Tennessee. He caught seven passes for 56 yards in a 29-10 loss to the Titans. QB Eli Manning threw for nearly 400 yards in the game and the Giants passing game racked up some good second-half yardage with the team behind on the scoreboard. For Nicks, the seven catches were a season-high. However, the 56 yards he managed were not. He has been a big-play threat for the Giants in his first two years in the league, but the Titans seemed intent on keeping him in front of them and Nicks' longest play of the day was a 20-yard catch. That was his shortest "long gain" of the year.
Analysis: It was also the first time Nicks was held out of the end zone this season as he had three touchdowns in Week 1 and one other touchdown in Week 2 at Indianapolis. But the Giants scored just one touchdown in Week 3 and it came on the ground. We still expect Nicks to be a featured red zone target and big-play threat for Manning going forward. While the Giants have stumbled out to a 1-2 record, it has been mainly due to turnovers and mishaps in the red zone. The team's passing game has actually been productive from a Fantasy standpoint. Continue to view Hicks as a viable No. 2 WR -- or strong No. 3 option -- for Week 4 against the Bears, though they do present a tough matchup.
News: Something has to give in Week 3 when the Giants host the Titans. WR Hakeem Nicks, the leading scorer in standard CBSSports.com leagues at his position, will take on a Titans defense that has given up the fewest Fantasy points to opposing receivers through the first two weeks of the season. Nicks has scored four touchdowns in the first two weeks, scoring three in the opener against Carolina. He also caught a 31-yard touchdown pass as one of just two catches in Week 2 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Nicks being the No. 1 scoring WR in Fantasy after two weeks is a tad misleading and is mostly the result of catching three touchdown passes in Week 1. In fact, he very nearly came away with nothing in Week 2 before catching a late touchdown pass to save his day. The Titans do pose a significant test to the Giants and their passing game in Week 3, but we still believe Nicks is enough of a threat to consider a good play despite the tough matchup. View him as a solid No. 2 WR option this week as Eli Manning will continue to look his way in scoring situations and Nicks has shown a propensity to contribute the big play with some regularity throughout his brief NFL career.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who was limited in practice all week by an ankle injury, looked fine running around the field Week 2 at Indianapolis. He didn't make much of a contribution until late, though, catching a 31-yard touchdown pass from QB Eli Manning with less than two minutes remaining. He finished with two catches for 38 yards.
Analysis: Nicks' numbers seem pretty ordinary after he had four catches for 75 yards and a touchdown in Week 1, but the Giants didn't seem to be holding him back at all. Manning targeted him five times. He just didn't get the same number of looks that Steve Smith and Mario Manningham did, which will happen from time to time. He probably has the most upside of the trio, but since he's still technically third on the depth chart, you have to expect some inconsistency. Treat him as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Titans in Week 3.
News: As expected, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks is active for Week 2 at Indianapolis. He was able to practice some Friday after missing time earlier in the week with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Nicks was QB Eli Manning's favorite receiver Week 1 against the Panthers, catching three touchdown passes, but the Giants might go run-heavy against the defense that gave up 231 rushing yards to Texans RB Arian Foster last week. Since he plays in a crowded receiving corps and is dealing with the injury, you should treat Nicks as no more a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: According to ESPN, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will play Week 2 at Indianapolis. He returned to practice Friday after missing time earlier in the week with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Nicks was QB Eli Manning's favorite receiver Week 1 against the Panthers, catching three touchdown passes, but he might not get the same opportunity against a defense that gave up 231 rushing yards to Texans RB Arian Foster last week. Since he plays with in a crowded receiving corps and is dealing with an ankle injury, you should treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (ankle) said he took a few reps in each practice session Friday and fully expects to play Sunday at Indianapolis. However, he is listed as questionable for Week 2. Nicks is coming off a huge Week 1, in which he ended up with three receiving touchdowns. The Giants are facing a Colts team that gave up 231 rushing yards to Arian Foster last week and will likely look to involve running backs Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs in the game plan more. The Texans beat the Colts last week even though QB Matt Schaub, the NFL's leading passer a year ago, threw for only 107 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was injured in the second quarter in Week 1 and still managed to score after getting injured. Unless his ankle swells up to the point where he can't play come Sunday, then he should be on the field against the Colts. The only risk -- and it's a big one -- is that the Giants don't play until Sunday night, so most of your alternatives would have already played. We say keep Nicks active for Week 2 unless you hear otherwise.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks missed practice for a second straight day Thursday as New York prepares for their Week 2 game at the Colts. If healthy, Nicks, who emerged as QB Eli Manning's favorite target with three touchdown grabs Week 1 against the Panthers, might not get as many looks against Indy. The Giants are facing a Colts team that gave up 231 rushing yards to Arian Foster last week and will likely look to involve running backs Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs in the game plan more. The Texans beat the Colts last week even though QB Matt Schaub, the NFL's leading passer a year ago, threw for only 107 yards.
Analysis: Nicks rolled his ankle in the second quarter of Sunday's game, but considering one of his touchdown grabs came in the third quarter, you should be too worried just yet about him playing in Week 2. You should be worried about how the Giants plan to use him, though. The Texans gave the rest of the league a formula for beating the Colts, and the Giants would be crazy not to follow it. Chances are they won't go to the same extremes the Texans did, which means Nicks could get a touchdown grab as Manning's preferred target, but you shouldn't expect another multi-score game. Treat him as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who emerged as QB Eli Manning's favorite target with three touchdown grabs Week 1 against the Panthers, might not get as many looks Week 2 at Indianapolis. The Giants are facing a Colts team that gave up 231 rushing yards to Arian Foster last week and will likely look to involve running backs Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs in the game plan more. The Texans beat the Colts last week even though QB Matt Schaub, the NFL's leading passer a year ago, threw for only 107 yards.
Analysis: Nicks sat out practice Wednesday, saying he rolled his ankle in the second quarter of Sunday's game. But considering one of his touchdown grabs came in the third quarter, you should be too worried about him playing in Week 2. You should be worried about how the Giants plan to use him, though. The Texans gave the rest of the league a formula for beating the Colts, and the Giants would be crazy not to follow it. Chances are they won't go to the same extremes the Texans did, which means Nicks could get a touchdown grab as Manning's preferred target, but you shouldn't expect another multi-score game. Treat him as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks said he rolled his ankle in the second quarter of last Sunday's game vs. the Panthers, forcing him out of practice on Wednesday. He could practice Thursday, depending on how the injury feels in the morning.
Analysis: If Nicks suffered this injury early in Week 1's game, he certainly didn't show any negative effects as he went for 75 yards and three touchdowns. While the Colts allowed just 107 pass yards in Week 1 to Matt Schaub, Nicks is worth a look as a No. 2 WR if he's healthy since he's Manning best big-play target. We'll keep you posted on Nicks' health.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught three touchdown passes in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers, a career-high for the second-year receiver. The three touchdown passes tied the second most in Giants history for a regular season game. He finished the game with four catches for 75 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was activated in 51 percent of CBSSports.com leagues going into Week 1, but that number is sure to go up after this performance. He wasn't a primary target for Manning in the game as the Giants spread the ball around (three difference receivers had four or more catches), but Nicks was clearly a go-to guy in the red zone. Nicks caught six touchdowns as a rookie, but he looks ready to take off as a big-play threat in an above average pass offense. The Giants will face the Colts on the road in Week 2 in what would appear to be a tough matchup on paper. The Colts allowed just 107 pass yards in Week 1 to Matt Schaub, including just three catches for 33 yards to an elite Fantasy option in Andre Johnson. Weigh your options, but Nicks is proving he deserves to be considered as a No. 2 WR in standard formats in the early stages of the season.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will be up against a tough pass defense in Week 1 at home against the Carolina Panthers. They finished fourth in the NFL in pass defense, allowing just 191 yards against per game. Nicks did manage a season-high six catches against the Panthers in his rookie season in Week 16, totaling 44 yards.
Analysis: Nicks finished third on the Giants in total pass targets last season with 74 passes going his way. He proved to be a big-play, down-the-field threat for Eli Manning and should continue to progress in his second NFL season. As for his Week 1 matchup, it's certainly not one we would deem favorable -- especially with the Panthers defense fresh fresh at the start of the season. Expect Steve Smith to get a majority of the looks, but Nicks will get some down field shots and could benefit if the Panthers pay extra attention to Smith. Consider Nicks a fringe No. 2/3 WR option for Week 1.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who last year capped his rookie season with 47 receptions for 790 yards and six touchdowns, didn't quite get off to the start he envisioned for himself due to injuries to his toe and knee that limited his chances in the spring. However, with the injuries now behind him, Nicks is looking forward to building on the foundation he put in place that also saw him post a team-leading 16.8 yards-per-catch. "I feel like I'm coming back," said Nicks, who spent some time before training camp working with QB Eli Manning at the Manning Family's Passing Academy in New Orleans, La. "I'm definitely working hard at it. It's going to take time, and it's a long season."
Analysis: Although the stress of his rookie year is in the rearview mirror, Nicks said he's far from being complacent just because his roster spot is safe. "You get too comfortable, and that brings laziness," he said. "I just want to make sure that I'm staying on top of my job and doing the same thing I've been doing to get me to this point." Nicks finished the preseasin with eight catches for 72 yards. He didn't show the same big-play ability as last season, but it is only the preseason. Some folks feel he is the Giants' most talented receiver, but Steve Smith would beg to differ. Still, Manning has emerged as a top 10 NFL QB and knows how to get the football to his receivers. Consider Nicks a nice No. 2 Fantasy WR to begin the season.
News: Giants second-year WR Hakeem Nicks managed to stay in Saturday's game at Baltimore, and he finished with four catches for 26 yards. He was targeted seven times. Nicks was ejected on the second play of the second preseason game against the Steelers last week for fighting with Pittsburgh DB Ike Taylor.
Analysis: It's good that Nicks bounced back from last week's scuffle and played well. We expect Nicks to build off of last year's impressive rookie campaign, and he should be considered a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR in 2010. Plan on drafting Nicks with a mid-round pick in all formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was ejected on the second play of Saturday night's preseason game against the Steelers after fighting with Pittsburgh DB Ike Taylor. “I’ve never been ejected from a game in my life until tonight. I was blocking downfield and the next thing I knew he was throwing punches so I tried to defend myself. I let my coaches and teammates down.”
Analysis: Fighting happens a lot in training camp, but not usually during preseason games. Nicks wasn't expected to play a whole lot on Saturday, but the Giants would surely have liked to have seen him for more than a couple of plays. Nicks had a nice rookie campaign and will be looking to build on it in 2010. Draft him as a low-end No. 2 option between rounds six and eight with the potential for him to turn into much more.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks played in the preseason opener against the Jets on Monday. Nicks had suffered a hyperextended right knee early in training camp. Nicks was targeted twice by QB Eli Manning on the team's opening drive in the second quarter, catching one pass for 13 yards.
Analysis: Everyone in the Giants' front office and on the coaching staff held their collective breath when Nicks went down early in camp. The team hasn't had a good history in the last year with diagnosing knee injuries, but Nicks luckily avoided a major problem. Nicks averaged 16.8 yards per catch as a rookie in 2009 and became a deep threat for QB Eli Manning. He is only expected to get better. Nicks is a solid low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returned to practice Thursday night, just two days after hyperextending his right knee late. Nicks was hurt when he came down the wrong way on a pass in the end zone on Tuesday. He had two MRIs that showed no serious injury.
Analysis: Nicks' return should be good news for Fantasy owners who had high hopes for last year's first-round draft pick. He has big-play ability, averaging 16.8 yards per catch last season while hauling in six touchdowns. If he can remain healthy, he has a chance to beat out Mario Manningham to start opposite Steve Smith, and the potential to be a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: The Giants are reporting Wednesday that WR Hakeem Nicks' MRI didn't reveal any problems with his right knee. Nicks is currently in New York City and will be examined further. He was injured during Tuesday's practice and will likely be listed as day to day.
Analysis: We'll continue to monitor Nicks' status, and hopefully he can return to practice soon. He was starting to improve with his toe injury, which was a problem this offseason, but the knee injury could keep him out for most of training camp. If Nicks is 100 percent healthy he has the chance to be a No. 2 Fantasy WR this year. He's worth drafting with a mid-round pick as long as he's given a clean bill of health.
News:The Newark Star-Ledger reports the Giants won't make a formal announcement on the results of WR Hakeem Nicks' MRI on his knee until Wednesday, but an anonymous source told the paper Tuesday night that Nicks is telling friends and family his knee is OK. He doesn't believe he suffered a major injury when he hyperextended his right knee during Tuesday's practice.
Analysis: While Nicks is feeling good, don't be surprised if the Giants take a cautious approach. Twice in the last year they thought they dodged serious knee injuries with WR Domenik Hixon and DL Jay Alford to only have both players later be diagnosed with torn ACLs. A fully healthy Nicks has the potential to be a No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2010. He's worth drafting with a mid-round pick as long as he's given a clean bill of health.
News: The Giants disclosed on Tuesday that receiver Hakeem Nicks, their first-round draft choice last season, hyperextended his right knee at the end of practice. He will undergo an MRI and be examined on Wednesday. The Giants do not expect to update his status until Thursday. The New York Post reports Nicks "figures to miss time but probably not too serious." Nicks has been limited to one practice each day during training camp as he continues to recover from a previous toe injury.
Analysis: We'll continue to monitor Nicks' status, and hopefully his knee injury isn't serious. He was starting to improve with his toe, but the knee injury could keep him out for an extended period of time. If Nicks is 100 percent healthy he has the chance to be a No. 2 Fantasy WR this year. He's worth drafting with a mid-round pick as long as he's given a clean bill of health.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said second-year WR Hakeem Nicks won't practice twice a day until he proves his toe is pain-free. Nicks spent Tuesday's morning practice riding the exercise bike.
Analysis: Nicks has the chance to build on his impressive rookie season, and he enters 2010 with the chance to start ahead of third-year WR Mario Manningham. Along with Steve Smith, all three receivers for the Giants will see plenty of playing time, and we like Nicks as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues so long as he stays on the field.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks rested on the sideline Tuesday morning while his teammates practiced, a situation that was identical to Monday. Nicks did practice with teammates Monday afternoon, so it appears Nicks will only practice once per day as he recovers from a toe problem suffered last season.
Analysis: Eventually the Giants will only have one practice per day and hopefully Nicks will be a regular participant. He has the chance to build on his impressive rookie season, and he enters 2010 with the chance to start. We like Nicks as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues so long as he stays on the field.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returned to practice Monday afternoon after saying earlier in the day that he didn't have any problems with his banged-up toe. The Giants held him out of Monday's morning practice for precautionary reasons. Nicks' practice was marred by drops, which has been uncharacteristic of him.
Analysis: Nicks has the chance to build on his impressive rookie season, and he enters 2010 with the chance to start ahead of third-year WR Mario Manningham. Along with Steve Smith, all three receivers for the Giants will see plenty of playing time, and we like Nicks as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues so long as he stays on the field.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who caught 47 passes for 790 yards and six touchdowns as a rookie last year, should be ready for the start of training camp. Nicks revealed in April that he played the season on a broken toe, which required offseason surgery to repair. The toe will be healed in time for the start of camp.
Analysis: Nicks has the chance to build on his impressive rookie season, and he enters 2010 with the chance to start ahead of third-year WR Mario Manningham. Along with Steve Smith, all three receivers for the Giants will see plenty of playing time, and we like Nicks as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy option this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants WR Steve Smith, who had a breakout year in 2009, said this year's breakout WR for the Giants will be second-year man Hakeem Nicks. "He showed me a lot of ability last year, just raw talent," Smith said. "If he works on some of the little things, the sky is the limit."
Analysis: Nicks had 47 catches for 790 yards and six scores as a rookie in 2009, and he's been dealing with a toe injury this offseason. We expect Nicks to be fine, and we like Smith's assessment of his teammate. Plan on drafting Nicks as a No. 3 Fantasy WR this year with a mid-round pick, but he should be considered a sleeper on Draft Day.
News: The New York Daily News reports Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (toe) did not practice Thursday. Nicks had returned to practice in full Tuesday, which was his first full practice since undergoing toe surgery a few months ago.
Analysis: It is unknown if Nicks suffered a setback, but this missed practice does not appear serious based on the report. Nicks has the chance to play well in 2010, and he should be considered a sleeper in all leagues. He played well as a rookie last year, and we like Nicks as No. 3 Fantasy WR this year.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Giants WR Hakeem Nicks has returned to practice in full Tuesday, which was his first full practice since undergoing toe surgery a few months ago. "The goal was today to see where I was at with it," Nicks said, "so I went out there and saw where I was." Asked where he was, Nicks replied, "I was a hundred percent. ... There were no limitations. They're just working me back in the depth chart, squeezing me back in. ... I've been out for a little minute, so I have to get that timing back down pat with Eli (Manning) and those guys. But that'll come in due time. I just want to take it back to the basics right now and get back to my releases and stuff like that."
Analysis: Nicks has the chance to play well in 2010, and he should be considered a sleeper in all leagues. He played well as a rookie last year and should play well again with Manning leading the way. We like Nicks as No. 3 Fantasy WR this year, and he's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who is recovering from a toe injury, said Friday his toe is not 100 percent but it's "all healed up." Nicks was able to take part in some team drills Thursday.
Analysis: We like Nicks heading into 2010 based on his play as a rookie. Hopefully he will be 100 percent healthy by the start of training camp, and we view Nicks as No. 3 Fantasy WR this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks, who is recovering from a toe injury, said Monday he expects to be ready for next week's minicamp. He has been out for most of the OTA workouts this offseason. "The goal is to be full-go by next week," he said. "I think I'm a lot more confident after today."
Analysis: We like Nicks heading into 2010 based on his play as a rookie when he had 47 catches for 790 yards and six scores. Hopefully he will be 100 percent healthy by the start of training camp, and we like Nicks as No. 3 Fantasy WR this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (wrist/toe) is doing individual work during OTA workouts Thursday. Nicks, who finished his rookie season in 2009 with 47 catches for 790 yards and six scores, is expected to be ready for full, on-field duty during minicamp in June.
Analysis: We like Nicks heading into 2010 based on his play as a rookie. Hopefully he will be 100 percent healthy by the start of training camp, and we like Nicks as No. 3 Fantasy WR this year. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Giants second-year WR Hakeem Nicks (wrist/toe) did not participate in the team's OTAs in mid-May, but he is expected to return to on-field duty in time for their mandatory minicamp in June. Nicks finished his rookie season with 47 catches for 790 yards and six scores.
Analysis: Nicks is one of our favorite sleepers for 2010 -- not only did he show how talented a receiver he was his rookie season, but he'll be a part of a prolific offense and will rarely see more than zone coverage because of the other weapons Eli Manning has at his disposal. So long as the Giants don't rely on their run game all season, Nicks should see plenty of opportunities for big plays. We like him enough to call him a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR worth a pick starting in Round 7 in drafts.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught one pass for a loss of 5 yards in Week 17 at Minnesota.
Analysis: Nicks finished the season with 47 catches for 790 yards and six scores. He showed big play ability and could become more of a go-to threat in the next couple of years for Eli Manning, making him a potential breakout player going into next season. Steve Smith will remain Manning's favorite target, but Nicks could become his big-play guy. He did have his fair share of drops this season and will need to become more consistent, but that could come with age and experience. He'll be a decent mid-round sleeper in drafts this fall.
News: The Giants activated QB Eli Manning and WR Hakeem Nicks for Week 17 at Minnesota, as expected. Both had been listed on the injury report as probable.
Analysis: No surprise here. The Giants have nothing to play for but pride at this point, but they could be looking to get rid of the bad taste left by their playoff elimination with a strong effort against a playoff team still playing for seeding and we expect Manning and Nicks to play a full game as long as its competitive. Both are safe plays.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) was able to practice in full Friday as the team prepares for Week 17 at Minnesota. He battled the injury last week and ended up catching six passes for 44 yards against the Panthers. He is listed as probable for Sunday's contest.
Analysis: Nicks has a good chance of playing this week since he managed to play last week and has been listed as probable. He has gotten more consistent over the course of his rookie season, but he has topped 70 yards receiving only once in his last eight games. Think of him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR with the though matchup.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught six passes for 44 yards in Week 16 against Carolina. He was targeted eight times in the game.
Analysis: Nicks had surpassed Mario Manningham in the pecking order in recent games, but Manningham out-gained him in Week 16 by 43 yards. However, Giants QB Eli Manning distributed his pass attempts evenly to four different receivers with Steve Smith leading the team in targets at nine and Manningham, Nicks and Boss each getting eight looks. Nicks and Manningham remain more No. 4 WR or flex options for Week 17 at Minnesota.
News: The Giants listed Eli Manning, Ahmad Bradshaw, Hakeem Nicks and Lawrence Tynes as active for Week 16 against Carolina. Each had been listed as probable on the injury report and was expected to play.
Analysis: None of the players listed here were in any real danger of missing the game. This is the official word you may have been waiting for in order to consider them a safe play. Go ahead and activate them if you have them in your plans for Week 16.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was limited in practice all week as New York prepares to face the Panthers in Week 16. Nicks was injured on Monday night when he tweaked his hamstring. He is listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Nicks made the most of limited touches Week 15 at Washington, leading the team with 66 receiving yards despite hauling in only two passes before leaving in the second quarter. He'll occasionally bust out the big game, but he has topped 70 yards receiving only three times this season. His role on offense makes him too inconsistent to trust week-in, week-out, and now he has this injury to worry about. Assuming he can play, he's still worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Panthers in Week 16.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to practice in a limited capacity on Wednesday in preparation to face the Panthers Week 16. Nicks was injured on Monday night as he tweaked his hamstring.
Analysis: Nicks made the most of limited touches Week 15 at Washington, leading the team with 66 receiving yards despite hauling in only two passes before leaving in the second quarter. He'll occasionally bust out the big game, but he has topped 70 yards receiving only three times this season. His role on offense makes him too inconsistent to trust week-in, week-out, and now he has this injury to worry about. Assuming he can play, he's still worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Panthers in Week 16.
News: Head coach Tom Coughlin had no updates on the injury suffered to rookie receiver Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) on Monday night. "These things are going to take a while," Coughlin said. "We've got some guys who are sore and banged up, but who's going to be able to practice and who isn't? We're going to have to give it that extra day."
Analysis: Nicks made the most of limited touches Week 15 at Washington, leading the team with 66 receiving yards despite hauling in only two passes before leaving in the second quarter. He'll occasionally bust out the big game, but he has topped 70 yards receiving only three times this season. His role on offense makes him too inconsistent to trust week-in, week-out, and now he has this injury to worry about. Assuming he can play, he's still worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Panthers in Week 16, but you'll want to keep a close eye on his practice time this week.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks, who had four catches for 110 yards and a touchdown last week, again made the most of limited touches Week 15 at Washington, leading the team with 66 receiving yards despite hauling in only two passes. He left in the second quarter with a hamstring injury, though, and didn't return.
Analysis: Nicks will occasionally bust out the big game, but he has topped 70 yards receiving only three times this season. His role on offense makes him too inconsistent to trust week-in, week-out, and now he has this injury to worry about. Assuming he can play, he's still worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Panthers in Week 16, but you'll want to keep a close eye on his practice time this week.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks had four catches for 110 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Eagles. His scoring pass was from 68 yards. Nicks also got the starting nod over Mario Manningham against the Eagles, and he outplayed Manningham, who finished with two catches for 16 yards.
Analysis: Nicks now has six touchdowns on the season and has scored in back-to-back weeks. He continues to play at a high level for a rookie and should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 15 at Washington. Nicks had two catches for 18 yards in his NFL debut against the Redskins in Week 1.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks will be starting as the team's No. 2 receiver over Mario Manningham on Sunday night against the Eagles. Manningham had only once catch in Week 13 against Dallas for 10 yards. Nicks had two receptions for 37 yards Week 13, scoring a touchdown as well.
Analysis: Manningham continues to put up pedestrian numbers of late and is being benched as a result. Neither he nor Nicks are highly-recommended Fantasy options for Week 14 as the Giants are taking on a tough Eagles pass defense. Manningham should be benched across the board while Nicks is at best a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught two passes for 37 yards in Week 13 against Dallas, including a 21-yard touchdown pass. He was targeted three times in the game.
Analysis: Nicks has five touchdowns in his rookie season and he was even targeted once more down by the goal line. He's a big target for Eli Manning in the red zone and should continue to put up numbers worthy of a No. 3 WR in most formats. He had four catches for 53 yards in Week 8 against the Eagles -- the team he will face in Week 14.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was the team’s second-best receiver on Thursday in a Week 12 loss to the Broncos. Nicks caught four passes in the game, gaining a total of 66 yards. His longest completion went for 36 yards.
Analysis: Nicks had a nice run earlier in the season when he had four games in a row with a touchdown pass. He has seen his number of catches continue to remain around four or five per game but has now gone four-straight games without a score. Nicks and the Giants take on Dallas in Week 13. In Week 2 against the Cowboys, Nicks was held without a reception. He is at best a low-end No. 3 Fantasy option for Week 13.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught five passes for 65 yards in Week 11 against Atlanta. He was targeted seven times in the game.
Analysis: Nicks hasn't had many big games this season, but he is usually good for around four catches and 50 yards per game. He has big play ability, but starting him expecting a big play or a touchdown is like starting to catch lightning in a bottle. He is a low-end No. 3 WR for Week 12 at Denver.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returns from a bye week having caught seven passes for 92 yards in his last two games for New York. The Giants play at home against the Falcons in Week 11 and Atlanta has one of the poorer pass defenses in the NFL.
Analysis: Nicks went from Weeks 4-7 with a touchdown in four straight games and has really emerged as a solid Fantasy option in his rookie season. That said, he only has low-end 'flex' appeal for the Week 11 game against the Falcons.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks totaled three catches for 39 yards during a Week 9 loss to the Chargers. His longest reception went 29 yards and he was targeted five times. He also had one carry for 9 yards.
Analysis: Nicks has failed to score in two straight games after doing so in four straight. Still, he is having a solid rookie season and has become a more relevant part of the Giants offense in recent weeks. Nicks is more of a No. 4 Fantasy or flex option for Week 11 against the Falcons (Giants are on a bye in Week 10).
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks caught four passes for 53 yards in Week 8 at Philadelphia. He was thrown to five times in the game. It was the first time in four games that he did not catch a touchdown pass.
Analysis: Nicks started opposite Steve Smith due to the absence of Mario Manningham, who was out due to a shoulder injury. Nicks has had at least 49 yards receiving in each of his last five games and has been a big play magnet for the Giants. Despite the team's current offensive struggles, Nicks could be viewed as a solid No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 9 against San Diego -- with or without Manningham.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks had four catches for 80 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Cardinals thanks to a freak play. With Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in man coverage against Mario Manningham, Rodgers-Cromartie deflected the ball with his left hand about 15 yards downfield, where Nicks caught it in stride and sped to his fourth touchdown in as many games. That 62-yarder put New York ahead 14-7.
Analysis: Hey, whatever works. Nicks continues to be a solid Fantasy option and is worth using as a No. 3 Fantasy WR in Week 8 at the Eagles. Hopefully he will keep the touchdown streak going and won't need any crazy plays to make it happen at Philadelphia.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks, who has scored a touchdown in the past three games, should be excited about his Week 7 performance against Arizona. The Cardinals are No. 31 in pass defense and have allowed nine touchdowns this season. Nicks, on top of his touchdown streak, has averaged 72 yards over that span.
Analysis: Nicks should be considered a good sleeper against the Cardinals in a game that has the potential to be a shootout. Plan on adding Nicks off the waiver wire in all leagues since he's only owned in 43 percent of leagues on CBSSports.com. Let's hope he finds the end zone for the fourth game in a row.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks led his team in receiving in Week 6 at New Orleans. He caught five passes for 114 yards, including a 37-yard touchdown pass from backup QB David Carr in the fourth quarter. He was thrown to eight times in the game.
Analysis: Nicks caught touchdown passes in each of the last three games and is slowly developing into a reliable go-to receiver for the Giants. He still falls behind Steve Smith and Mario Manningham on the depth chart, but his big play ability could have the Giants looking to feature him more and more as the season goes on. He's definitely worth adding where available off the waiver wire, but we wouldn't recommend him as anything more than a bye week or injury replacement receiver for Week 7 against Arizona.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks led all Giants receivers in receptions in Week 5 against Oakland with four catches for 49 yards. He caught a 9-yard touchdown pass and has caught a touchdown in each of the last two weeks.
Analysis: Nicks is a promising young rookie receiver that the Giants think highly of. He should become more entrenched in the offensive scheme as the weeks go on, but is currently third on the pecking order behind Steve Smith and Mario Manningham. That will lead to erratic results. He is a nice option to stash away, but is not a receiver we will recommend starting for Week 6 at New Orleans.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returned to action for the first time since Week 1 in Week 4 at the Chiefs and caught one pass. He turned a wide receiver screen into a 54-yard touchdown for his first career NFL touchdown.
Analysis: Nicks, who was thrown to three times in the game, caught Eli Manning's final pass of the game. Manning hurt his heel on the previous play and the Giants decided to call a "safe" play with minimal effort from Manning. He completed the pass out near the sideline to Nicks, who did the rest with a great run. Nicks had a very strong preseason and is part of a promising young group of receivers for the Giants. His role could increase as the season continues, but we don't recommend trusting him as a Fantasy starter just yet. Keep him stashed away in deeper leagues and in most keeper formats.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks (foot) was activated for Week 4 at Kansas City, as expected. He was expected to get time as the team's No. 3 WR.
Analysis: Nicks should get his first chance to contribute in the regular season with Domenik Hixon ruled out. He had a very strong end to his preseason after a slow start and is a receiver that could develop into a regular target as the season goes on. We don't recommend him as a starter yet, but we do recommend keeping an eye on his development.
News: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks was able to practice in full on Friday and has been listed as probable for the team's Week 4 game at Kansas City. The New Jersey Star-Ledger reported on Thursday that Giants WR Hakeem Nicks said his sprained foot is fine and that his awareness of the offense is as good as it was when he initially went down with the injury two weeks ago. “You can get right back into it. It’s football,” Nicks said. “The main thing you have to make sure is you’re back in shape. That’s it. It’s not like I lost knowledge of the offense. I was still in on every meeting. It’s just a matter of me being in shape.”
Analysis: Nicks has minimal Fantasy value in seasonal leagues at this point but he appears to be ready to go for Week 4. The Giants are relying on Steve Smith and Mario Manningham in the passing game, and Nicks would only be a reserve against the Chiefs.
News: Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Monday that rookie WR Hakeem Nicks (foot), out the past two weeks, expects to return to work at practice this week heading into Week 4 against Kansas City.
Analysis: Nicks was injured in Week 1, and since then the Giants passing game has taken off with Steve Smith and Mario Manningham. Keep an eye on Nicks' progress, but he has minimal Fantasy value in seasonal leagues against the Chiefs if he's able to play.
News: Giants WRs Domenik Hixon (knee) and Hakeem Nicks were both named among the inactives for Week 3 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Neither of these guys were expected to be active, but you can now safely bench them in all formats.
News: The Giants inactives for Week 2 at Dallas are RB Danny Ware, DB Aaron Ross, DB Kevin Dockery, WR Hakeem Nicks, LB Clint Sintim and DL Chris Canty.
Analysis: Keep all of these players reserved for Week 2 against the Cowboys. Nicks and Ware are expected to be out at least another week due to injury, and Ross should also return soon when healthy.
News: Giants receiver Hakeem Nicks is probably going to be sidelined at least two weeks with a sprained foot that Coach Tom Coughlin said was not a Lisfranc sprain. Coughlin indicated Monday that the timeframe was a minimum and that he may be out longer. Nicks sprained his left foot in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 23-17 win over the Washington Redskins on Sunday. He spent the final minutes of the game sitting on the sidelines with crutches at his side. Nicks caught two passes for 18 yards.
Analysis: Nicks was coming off a great preseason and had worked his way into the Giants regular rotation at WR, but now you should keep him reserved in all leagues for the foreseeable future. He might not be useful for Fantasy play until the second half of the season, so cutting him in standard leagues for a flier off waivers is OK.
News: The New York Daily News reports Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks, who left his first NFL game on crutches after suffering a "sprained" left foot in the fourth quarter of the Giants' 23-17 win over the Washington Redskins and was wearing a boot, will undergo further tests Monday. But the paper reports that according to an NFL source, the Giants expect Nicks to be out 2-to-3 weeks, but they won't know for sure until after the MRI. "It's just a test that I'm going through right now with these little knick-knack injuries," Nicks said. "Once I get past these injuries I'll be all right." Nick was hurt on a 7-yard catch with about 11 minutes left in the game. Nicks, who finished with two catches for 18 yards, said he didn't even know he was hurt until he felt pain while walking back to the huddle.
Analysis: Nicks was coming off a great preseason and had worked his way into the Giants regular rotation at WR, but now you should keep him reserved in all leagues for Week 2 at Dallas and likely for the next few weeks depending on the severity of his injury. We'll know more following the MRI so stay tuned.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks was carted off the field in the fourth quarter Week 1 against the Redskins with a sprained left foot. X-rays were negative. He came out of the locker room on crutches, wearing a cast. He caught two passes for 18 yards before leaving.
Analysis: Nicks' status looks iffy to say the least for Week 2 at Dallas. He has the potential to be the Giants best receiver this year, but he has to work his way up the depth chart first. This injury doesn't help him in that endeavor. He wasn't a major contributor before leaving and isn't worth owning in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks will apparently be an integral part of the Giants' offense for Week 1 against Washington. "He's playing it right now," coach Tom Coughlin said Friday when asked at what point Nicks will play a "major role" in the offense. "He's involved right now in everything we're doing. We basically have four guys that will do a lot of rotating and a lot of playing." The other three are obviously Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith and Mario Manningham. Derek Hagan figures to be active and playing a role in special teams, which means Sinorice Moss and Ramses Barden could be among the inactives.
Analysis: Nicks could be a sleeper for Week 1 against the Redskins in deep leagues, but don't plan on using him in standard formats. In time, he could become a solid Fantasy option, but we want to see it happen first. Keep Manningham, Hagan, Moss and Barden reserved in all formats this week.
News: Giants QB David Carr completed a 64-yard score during the first quarter of Thursday's preseason game against the Patriots on which rookie first-round pick Hakeem Nicks ran about half the distance after the catch. Nicks had seven catches for 208 yards and three touchdowns in the team's final two preseason games but left in the second half of this game because of a hip flexor. He's expected to be all right.
Analysis: Nicks was pretty much going through the motions during the preseason before breaking out toward the end. That is definitely going to help instill confidence in the Giants coaching staff as they look for a go-to-receiver. Nicks won't be that at the start of the season, but he's earned some playing time and could get more if other Giants receivers struggle. Nicks is more of a Fantasy reserve to begin the season, but is definitely a rookie to keep tabs on.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks had the type of preseason game most Fantasy owners were hoping for Saturday night against the Jets. Nicks had six catches for 144 yards and two touchdowns. Even though it was against the Jets' third-team defense in the fourth quarter, it was still a good sign. "He made some plays," Tom Coughlin said. "He created opportunities for us to see him and his contributions and how we might be able to utilize him." Nicks did most of his damage against players not likely to be on the Jets' final roster, but he did get some time with the first team. And he hopes he showed enough to earn a little more. "I feel like I did," Nicks said. "At the same time, I can't control the depth chart. All I can do is keep on competing and we'll go from there."
Analysis: This could be the type of performance Nicks needed to earn more playing time with the starting unit and get more action once the regular season starts. We recommend taking Nicks with a late-round pick in seasonal leagues with the hope it could lead to something big during the year. In rookie-only leagues, Nicks is worth a second-round pick.
News: The New York Post reports that the Giants want to play Mario Manningham and rookies Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden a bit with Eli Manning and the starters during Saturday's preseason game against the Jets.
Analysis: The report goes on to add that the receivers may not get a fair chance to show what they can do because the weather forecast is calling for stormy weather. Nicks is currently behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham. He also has to compete with fellow rookie Ramses Barden. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News: Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks caught one pass on Saturday against the Bears. Nicks showed off his big-play ability by hauling in a 55-yard grab to lead the team in receiving yards.
Analysis: Nicks has an opportunity to play right away with the Giants, who are trying to replace the departed Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, but Nicks is currently behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham. Hicks also has to compete with fellow rookie Ramses Barden. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News: According to the New York Daily News, Giants WR Hakeem Nicks returned to the practice field Tuesday for the first time in a few days, shaking off the hamstring injury that's been bothering him.
Analysis: Nicks has an opportunity to play right away with the Giants, who are trying to replace the departed Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, but Nicks is currently behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham. Hicks also has to compete with fellow rookie Ramses Barden. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News: According to the Bergen County Record, Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks has missed several days with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Nicks has an opportunity to play right away with the Giants, who are trying to replace the departed Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, but Nicks needs to be 100 percent healthy. He is currently behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham on the depth chart. Hicks also has to compete with fellow rookie Ramses Barden. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News: The New York Giants will be reporting to training camp Sunday with all their draft picks, including the one they hope fills the void left by the release of troubled Super Bowl hero Plaxico Burress. First-round pick Hakeem Nicks became the last of the Giants' nine picks to reach a deal the team when the North Carolina receiver finalized an agreement on a five-year contract that will pay him a little less than $12.5 million. Peter Schaffer, Nicks' agent, said the receiver was to sign the contract at the University at Albany later Saturday. "It was very important for Hakeem to be in training camp on time, so he can do his part to help the team win a championship," Schaffer said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. "He did not want to miss any practice time while his teammates were on the field and that was a strong impetus to get the deal done."
Analysis: Nicks was the 29th pick overall in the draft. He set 14 school receiving records in three seasons with the Tar Heels, leaving as their career leader in catches (181), yardage (2,840) and touchdown receptions (21). Many Giants fans are hoping that Nicks can provide the deep threat that the Giants lost late last season when Burress shot himself in the thigh in a New York City nightclub. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats. He's going to get immediate playing time but he'll still be behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham on the depth chart at least at first.
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that his offseason has been solid and he is looking forward to training camp. "It's going great," Nicks said. "I'm just trying to make sure I stay in shape and learn everything I need to learn."
Analysis: Nicks has an opportunity to play right away with the Giants, who are trying to replace the departed Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, but Nicks is currently behind Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and possibly Mario Manningham. Hicks also has to compete with fellow rookie Ramses Barden. Go into your Fantasy draft with Nicks as a late-round flier in seasonal leagues, and he's worth drafting with a second-round pick in rookie-only formats.
News:Newsday reports Giants rookie WRs Hakeem Nicks and Ramses Barden "looked terrific" during the recent minicamp. The report says "the thing you want to see from rookies in this setting is precise route-running and consistent catching. They were excellent at both. In time, this receiver group will be excellent."
Analysis: We like Nicks better than Barden, but both have potential to make plays this season, especially with the Giants lacking quality playmakers at WR with Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and Mario Manningham on top of the depth chart. Nicks is worth a late-round pick in seasonal leagues, and both rookies should be drafted early in rookie-only drafts.
News: In an interview with The Sporting News, Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks expects to make plays this season. "It's making plays when your name is called," Nicks said. "Making plays even if it is in the blocking game, such as getting a block down the field to spring a running back for a nice long run. It's just contributing to the team in the best way possible." He also knows he has a lot of work to do to crack the starting lineup with Domenik Hixon, Steve Smith, Sinorice Moss, Mario Manningham and David Tyree are ahead of him on the depth chart. "I anticipated that coming in," he said. "I know that nothing is guaranteed, no matter what round you are drafted in. I am just looking forward to going out there and competing every day."
Analysis: Nicks has potential to make plays for the Giants with a lack of quality talent at the receiver spot now that Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer are gone. We don't expect Nicks to have much impact in seasonal leagues this year, but he should be drafted high in rookie-only drafts and keeper formats.
News: The New York Post reports now comes a chance for Giants rookie WR Hakeem Nicks to make a positive impression. He arrives Friday for the start of his first rookie mini-camp with the Giants, the team that selected him with the 29th overall pick in the NFL Draft. The Giants want to believe Nicks has enough physical gifts and mental savvy to make some sort of meaningful contribution as a first-year receiver. As a true freshman, Nicks in 2006 at North Carolina started 11 games and led the Tar Heels with 39 receptions for 660 yards -- both school records for a freshman. "He stepped on campus as a freshman and produced," said Marc Ross, the Giants director of college scouting. "The body type and the hands are probably more polished."
Analysis: The Giants are hoping Nicks can step in for the departed Plaxico Burress and provide the team with a big-play threat. Nicks should be considered a late-round flier in seasonal formats, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: After reportedly considering trades for Braylon Edwards and Anquan Boldin, the Giants decided to stay in their spot and take UNC WR Hakeem Nicks with the 29th overall pick in the 2009 draft. Nicks left the Tar Heels as the school's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns with 181 grabs for 2,840 yards and 21 touchdowns (12 last year). "We like him a lot," Giants general manager Jerry Reese said. "He's a big, strong kid, very productive. ... We expect him to come in and get in the mix."
Analysis: Coming to the Giants, many are going to expect the 21-year-old to take over for Burress, who was released earlier this month. Nicks tweaked a hamstring at the NFL Combine and gained some weight, but he has recovered and expects to be ready for rookie camp in early May. He will have to compete with veterans Steve Smith, Domenik Hixon, Sinorice Moss and Mario Manningham for playing time next season, but he does provide the deep threat that they cannot provide on a consistent basis. A bid-bodied, physical receiver, Nicks will cut into the production of all the Giants' receivers, and it could be a lot if he has a strong preseason. We consider Nicks a late-round flier in seasonal formats, a middle- to late-round pick in dynasty/keeper formats and a Top-15 pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: At a recent charity event for Cardinals WR Anquan Boldin, Hall of Fame WR Michael Irvin told CBSSports.com that North Carolina WR Hakeem Nicks could be another version of Irvin. At least that's what UNC coach Butch Davis told Irvin. "I like the big receiver from North Carolina," Irvin said. "Butch Davis called me and said he reminds me of you." Nicks, meanwhile, compared himself to Boldin at a February press conference. Nicks, who is listed at 6-foot-1, 212 pounds, leaves North Carolina with career records for receptions (181), receiving yards (2,840) and touchdowns (21). He also holds the school single-season records with 12 touchdowns and 1,222 yards receiving in 2008, having set the single-season record for catches (74) the previous year.
Analysis: If Nicks can play like Irvin or Boldin he would be a tremendous Fantasy option. See what team he ends up with at the NFL Draft because that will determine his Fantasy value, but Nicks could be a good sleeper as a rookie.
