Danny Amendola looked great at pre-game warm-ups

New England Patriots wide receiver Danny Amendola (80) warms up prior to the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots WR Danny Amendola has mostly recovered from his groin injury and is active today, but he is considered a somewhat risky fantasy play this week due to multiple reports that he will be placed on a snap count against the Cincinnati Bengals. My opinion is that if the Patriots are able to pull away early, then Amendola won’t be much of a fantasy option. However, this should be a close game, and the Bengals are once again without star CB Leon Hall. The Patriots are also without Stevan Ridley, so Danny Amendola should still be a significant factor in this game even if he isn’t starting. Unless if you are loaded at receiver or play in a league with only two receivers and have a good enough WR2, then you should play Danny Amendola today.

Why? Well, firstly, he’s just that good, and he shares an excellent connection with Patriots legendary QB Tom Brady. If he gets the targets, then he is going to have a big day against the Bengals. On top of that, ESPN’s Bob Holtzman and well-connected ESPN Boston beat writer Field Yates have combined for a gameday report that is very encouraging for the prospects of Danny Amendola.

Per Holtzman on ESPN’s Sunday Countdown, Amendola was running at “full speed” during pre-game warm-ups, and he looked “good” out there. That’s not any game-breaking news by any means, but it’s positive and encouraging; two things Patriots fans and fantasy owners are glad to hear. Amendola said himself that he hates being on the sidelines watching the team play without him (he’s said that twice), and this is a testament to Amendola’s attitude and toughness. He’s one of the toughest players in the league, always tries his hardest, and always returns from injuries earlier than expected. When he’s out there, he will be a factor for sure.

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