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Week 15 was tough for the Carolina Panthers as they fell to the Dallas Cowboys, 30-14. Wide receiver Xavier Legette suffered a groin injury during the game, adding to the team's struggles. Fantasy managers counting on Legette are left wondering about his status for the remainder of the season.
The Panthers sit at 3-11, officially eliminated from playoff contention. While they still have a few games left, protecting a young talent like Legette might become the priority. If you are holding onto him in redraft leagues, it might be time to evaluate other options.
What is going on with Legette's health, and who should you pick up in his absence? Let's take a look and find out below.
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Is Xavier Legette Out For The Season?
The 23-year-old rookie sustained a groin injury during the Week 15 loss to Dallas. On Monday afternoon, Panthers head coach Dave Canales provided an update, labeling Legette as week-to-week. Canales also mentioned that Legette is likely out for Week 16's contest with the Arizona Cardinals.
With Carolina out of the playoff race, the team has little incentive to rush Legette back onto the field. Even if he returns for Week 17, his effectiveness might be limited. He is also dealing with a nagging wrist injury and should undergo surgery after the season ends.
Panthers WR Xavier Legette will be week to week the rest of the season with a groin injury. Coach Dave Canales said Legette likely to be out this week. pic.twitter.com/SwFck6jJAF
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) December 16, 2024
In Week 15, Legette logged just two catches for seven yards on three targets. If you are pushing for a fantasy championship, relying on the first-year player is risky. Dropping him in redraft formats might be the best move.
Other Panthers receivers should benefit from Legette missing time. Fellow rookie Jalen Coker impressed in Week 15, hauling in four passes for 110 yards and a touchdown on six targets. Coker should see a larger role moving forward, making him a top waiver-wire target.
Bryce Young TO JALEN COKER. 83-YARD TD.
📺: #DALvsCAR on FOX
📱: https://t.co/waVpO909ge pic.twitter.com/9DdQnhGIEP— NFL (@NFL) December 15, 2024
Veteran WR Adam Thielen remains a trustworthy option, having tallied three double-digit fantasy performances over the past three weeks. Thielen is rostered in most leagues, so Coker is the more accessible pickup for Week 16.
While Legette's future is bright, his groin injury and Carolina's situation make him a drop candidate in redraft leagues. Shift your focus to available options like Coker for a potential fantasy boost during the playoffs.
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