NFL Week 7 Fantasy Outlook: Evaluating Bub Means’ Potential

The potential of New Orleans Saints wide receiver Bub Means has become a popular topic heading into the seventh week of the 2024 NFL season. Initially a fifth-round draft pick out of the University of Pittsburgh, Means saw limited action in the first five weeks, playing only 19 offensive snaps. However, in the previous week’s game, he emerged as a key player amidst several injuries affecting the team’s roster.

With the Saints facing a challenging Thursday Night Football matchup against the Denver Broncos, Means is expected to see significant playing time. The sudden rise in his fantasy value is largely due to the circumstances in the Saints’ squad, rather than a significant leap in performance or skill. Key players like Chris Olave are sidelined with a concussion, and Rashid Shaheed is out following a knee surgery, leaving the Saints short-handed in their receiving corps.

Head coach Dennis Allen addressed the team’s injury woes earlier in the week, underscoring that along with Olave and Shaheed, quarterback Derek Carr remains out with an oblique injury, while Taysom Hill is dealing with rib issues. Spencer Rattler is starting in Carr’s stead, which adds a layer of unpredictability to the team’s offensive dynamics.

Fantasy analysts note that Means’ fantasy value stems from merely being one of the few remaining healthy receivers. In week six, Means was able to capitalize on this situation, running 34 routes and securing a touchdown. According to Garion Thorne, an analyst at DraftKings, “At this point, that’s enough to take notice.” The Saints’ reliance on Alvin Kamara for targets may continue, but Means offers an attractive option if other receivers remain unavailable.

Despite the opportunity, experts warn not to overestimate Means’ fantasy portfolio for Week 7. The Saints’ overall team performance is projected to be modest against a Broncos defense that allows just 5.3 yards per attempt. Furthermore, Denver may be without cornerback Patrick Surtain II, who is in concussion protocol.

The Saints’ struggling offense under a rookie quarterback and on a short preparation week poses risks; however, fantasy managers in larger leagues might consider Means a flexible option. With an optimistic target range between six to seven passes and a hopeful 80% snap share, Means represents a potential WR3 play for savvy fantasy players.