Fantasy Football Draft Wraps Up with Sleeper Picks and Bargain Finds
ICARO Media Group
In the latest fantasy football draft, several late-round picks caught the attention of fantasy managers as potential sleeper choices. Despite the wide receiver position being highly valued in recent years, the draft showcased the depth and potential upside of certain running backs and wide receivers.
One such steal was Brandin Cooks of the Dallas Cowboys, whose first season with the team fell short of expectations. However, with CeeDee Lamb currently holding out, Cooks has been running as the WR1 for the team, presenting an opportunity for him to shine even after Lamb returns to the lineup.
Another intriguing wide receiver pick was Jahan Dotson of the Washington Commanders. While fantasy managers who took a chance on him last year might be hesitant to do so again, Dotson's talent and youth make him a player who could surprise this season, especially if quarterback Jayden Daniels quickly adapts to his new role.
Darnell Mooney's move to the Atlanta Falcons went under the radar compared to other team acquisitions. However, with a 1,000-yard season already under his belt and the likelihood of facing consistent single coverage, Mooney could prove to be a valuable asset for fantasy managers this year.
On the running back front, Tyler Allgeier of the Atlanta Falcons is the clear number two behind Bijan Robinson. Despite his backup status, Allgeier amassed an impressive 204 touches last season, and head coach Raheem Morris has already indicated that he will have a significant role in the Atlanta offense this year.
Among the late-round quarterback picks, Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders stands out. The former LSU standout, who rushed for over 1,100 yards in his Heisman Trophy-winning season, possesses the rushing upside that fantasy managers covet. While selecting a quarterback in the late rounds is a gamble, Daniels' potential makes him an attractive lottery ticket for those willing to take the risk.
As the draft drew to a close, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen emerged as the final pick. Thielen's impressive performance last season, with over 100 receptions and 1,000 receiving yards, demonstrates his value despite the offensive changes in Carolina. While his numbers may not reach the same heights this year, he presents a solid option as a WR3 and a potential bargain for savvy fantasy managers.
The draft showcased the importance of finding value in every round. Although the New England Patriots had a lackluster offensive season last year, Hunter Henry managed to finish as a top-20 tight end, demonstrating that productive players can emerge even in less successful teams.
In the later rounds, the Buffalo Bills made an impact with their defensive selections. The Bills defense, starting the season with a favorable home matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, presents a promising option for streaming purposes. Additionally, placing their bets on kicker Tyler Bass, who looks to improve upon a somewhat lackluster fantasy season in 2023, could pay off if the Bills offense faces more stalled drives.
While a successful draft is not solely determined by the day itself, it is evident that this draft laid the foundation for a competitive fantasy team. With a strong wide receiver group featuring players like St. Brown and Adams, the potential of a top-tier tight end in Pitts, and the intriguing quarterback duo of Prescott and Daniels, this team has a solid starting lineup. However, vigilance throughout the season, including waiver moves and trade opportunities, will be necessary to secure victory.
In the end, the draft signals a promising start for fantasy managers, filled with sleeper picks, potential breakout stars, and bargain finds. The journey to fantasy glory has only just begun, and it will be exciting to see how these players perform as the season progresses.