DK Metcalf injury update: Latest on Seahawks WR for fantasy football Week 3

DK Metcalf is off to a slow start when it comes to his performance in fantasy football thus far. The wide receiver has just nine catches for 122 yards and a touchdown in the 2023 season. He has a total of 27.2 PPR fantasy points through two games.

To put it in perspective, he had an even slower start last season with 16.1 fantasy points through the first two games. He ended that 2022 season with 226.8 points, the second-lowest total in his career

The numbers scream concern from a fantasy perspective but Metcalf was still a top-20 receiver in 2022. His injury could impact his chance to thrive in Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers.

---

---

DK Metcalf Injury Update

Seattle Seahawks WR DK Metcalf

The Pro Bowler told the media on Thursday that his rib injury isn't severe and he’ll be good to go against the Panthers this week.

Metcalf did not participate in Seahawks practice for the second straight day. Ideally, fantasy owners would like to see him at least be a limited participant. All signs point to him heading toward the injury list as questionable. Instead, he's listed as DNP for the time being.

The former Ole Miss star has dealt with injuries throughout his career, starting back in 2019. Metcalf suffered both abdomen and knee injuries that year in the preseason but played in all 16 games in the regular season.

Prior to his rib injury, he dealt with foot and ankle in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The talented wideout started every game in each of those seasons. Fantasy owners should have a positive outlook as DK Metcalf hasn't missed any significant time due to injury.

It's one of the reasons why he gets drafted high in fantasy leagues and a constant in most dynasty leagues. His health has been a major factor in his success and it pays off for fantasy owners. The fact is that if he's listed as either doubtful or out, it would be time to panic, but that likely won't be the case.

---

---

What happened to DK Metcalf?

Seattle Seahawks WR DK Metcalf

In Week 2 versus the Detroit Lions, Metcalf took a massive hit at the goal line, which caused him to exit the game for a short time. On the opening drive of the matchup, he was stuck between two Detroit defensive players on a catch near the end zone.

DK Metcalf made a 16-yard reception and was tackled at the Lions' 1-yard line. As he was falling to the ground, Detroit safety Kerby Joseph dropped his shoulder right into Metcalf's side.

Yet, he did come back and make some big-time receptions late in the Week 2 game. Metcalf was Seattle's leading receiver with six receptions for 75 yards in the overtime win. The 25-year-old is the Seahawks' top option in their passing game. Per FantasyPros, Metcalf has a 16.4% Target share and a 36.0% air-yard share.

He is ranked 21st out of 60 receivers in receiving grade and 26th in YPRR, or Yards Per Route Run. Metcalf will see a slight drop versus the Panthers defense. He is a threat for a big play or touchdown in any week and is second on the Seahawks in red zone targets.

Overall, quarterback Geno Smith could use Metcalf to help deal with a solid Carolina defense in Week 3.

---

When will DK Metcalf return?

Seattle Seahawks WR DK Metcalf

All signs are pointing to Metcalf being a full-go this week against the Panthers in Week 3. His fantasy projection sees him getting 15 points in PPR leagues, making him a WR16 this week It comes as no surprise as the veteran wideout is looking to have a breakout game.

As noted earlier, he gets his fair share of targets in this Seahawks offense, which is always good news when it comes to receivers. Metcalf leads the team in yards and is second to Tyler Lockett in touchdowns and receptions. This shouldn't concern DK Metcalf owners as the season is young.

DK Metcalf is an easy WR2 in fantasy this week and a great flex option if you need help there. Lockett is a threat but there aren't a lot of players who can contain Metcalf. He's still Seattle's No.1 receiver over Lockett so it's another assurance for fantasy owners.

His rib injury could limit his target share a bit but Metcalf can make the most of out of his opportunities. The Panthers could make life hard for Metcalf but he'll be the catches and maybe get into the endzone in Week 3. DK Metcalf should be in your lineup without a second thought. He's a safe and dependable option.