Fantasy Upside
Prior to tearing his patellar tendon in Week 6 of the 2014 season, Victor Cruz was a consistent slot receiver for the Giants. He had 19 total touchdowns between 2011 and 2012, and was targeted 6.8 times per game before the injury two years ago. Cruz is still only 29, an age when most receivers are just starting to decline, but still usually have a few good years left. Also, he’s looked healthy in camp and has a good chance of regaining his role as the primary option out of the slot this year.
Fantasy Downside
Coming off his torn patellar tendon last year, Cruz tore his fascia in his left calf and missed the entire 2015 season, so he hasn’t played since October 12, 2014. Also, we haven’t seen how Cruz will be affected by the phenomenal Odell Beckham Jr., who hadn’t yet become a regular starter for the Giants the last time Cruz took the field. Additionally, Cruz will have rookie Sterling Shepard vying for snaps. While Cruz should see some playing time, it’s unclear exactly how many targets there will be to go around.
2016 Bottom Line
Cruz is a risky option to put a lot of draft stock into. On the one hand, he’s finally healthy and has proven he can produce at a high level. On the other hand, it’s been a long time since he’s been on the field, and the Giants passing game has changed since he was a focal point for the offense. He’s going at the end of drafts right now, which is about where he belongs as a high risk option with upside at the end of your bench.
