Carolina Panthers fantasy football outlook for Week 16 vs. Bucs

Lirim Hajrullahu – Carolina Panthers K

As if this year could get any worse, Carolina Panthers kicker Zane Gonzalez suffered a season-ending quad injury moments before kickoff at the Buffalo Bills. The veteran who has mostly been a journeyman in his short career, was having an incredible season and this complication is another crucial blow to his struggling team.

Lirim Hajrullahu spent time on the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Football Team practice squads in 2021 and played in the CFL on three different teams from 2014-19. He has been tasked with filling some pretty big shoes for the remainder of the season.

Start or Sit in Week 16?

SIT. 

It’s not worth the risk. I would look elsewhere this week while Hajrullahu proves his value on the field.

Carolina Panthers DST

Despite allowing 31 points, the Panthers sacked Josh Allen five times and picked him off once which gave them a respectable five fantasy points on the day. Despite still being pretty good statistically, Carolina is only the 19th ranked defense in fantasy and the injuries are starting to pile up.

Start or Sit in Week 16?

SIT. 

I would be very nervous starting this defense against Tom Brady and a Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that just got embarrassed by the New Orleans Saints on Sunday Night Football.

As mentioned earlier, the Panthers’ secondary is banged up. Although Brady is down some key players as well, I’m not putting my faith in this defense to contain the defending Super Bowl champions.