The PFW staff brings you it's late-week fantasy tips for wide receivers, including a tough situation for the Eagles' star receivers as well as boosted stock for pass-catchers in New England.

Without Aaron Hernandez, Patriots QB Tom Brady is going to need to rely more on WRs Wes Welker, Julian Edelman and Deion Branch, who re-signed this week. When Branch joined the Patriots midseason in 2010, he went 9-98-1 against the Ravens, the Pats’ opponent this week. Welker has not performed like a No. 1 fantasy receiver, and Edelman is a player to keep an eye on this week to see if he continues to see snaps and targets. How the offense moves the ball on Sunday night could be a predictor to which receivers for New England — outside Brandon Lloyd, who has been steady — are worthy fantasy options while Hernandez is on the mend.

The Giants surprised many when they announced WR Hakeem Nicks (foot) would be out for Thursday’s game against the Panthers. This is kind of bad news all around, as the Panthers can now do their best to clamp down on Victor Cruz and make others beat them.