The idea of benching Calvin Johnson in fantasy is insane. Matthew Stafford's favorite target is constantly a big point's creator. However, Week 6 could be different. After sitting out the Lions matchup against the Green Bay Packers, the wide receiver has been inactive in practice all week, putting his status for Week 6 in doubt.
Johnson left the game against the Chicago Bears with a knee issue. He hobbled off the field, but stressed he was fine. Johnson was a surprise inactive in Week 5. The receiver claimed it was a last minute coach's decision and that he was really fine. However, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports the Lions receiver has experience swelling in the injured knee all week making Detroit nervous he might have to sit his second-straight game.
If Johnson is either limited or inactive, expect Ryan Broyles and Brandon Pettigrew to get plenty of attention from Stafford against the Cleveland Browns. So far, Broyles has been a fantasy disappointment as the receiver is filling in for the injured Nate Burleson. In three games he has just five catches for 27 yards, but he also has just six targets. With Johnson not a full strength and Broyles fully healthy, he could put up a solid game against Cleveland. For owners needing a receiver, Broyles or Kris Durham will be solid options.
Brandon Pettigrew could also be poised for a big game. The tight end has been proving to be extremely reliable. Over the past two weeks, Pettigrew has been putting up solid numbers. He has caught 11 passes off 12 targets. While he has yet to record a touchdown, his targets continue to increase. Pettigrew has been the receiver benefiting the most from the absence of Burleson and could put up even more numbers if Johnson is limited. If Johnson is out, Pettigrew will be the top receiver for the Lions.
Do not rule Megatron out no matter what. This is the same receiver that set the NFL's all-time receiving record while battling multiple injuries in 2012. The Lions are in need of some consistency and the Browns have momentum in their favor, so the chances Johnson is on the field are still high.