Top Fantasy Football Bounce-Back Candidates for the 2024 Season
ICARO Media Group
As we gear up for another exciting fantasy football season, it's crucial to identify players who have the potential to bounce back and deliver excellent value to our teams. Last year, we witnessed remarkable comebacks from players like Breece Hall, DJ Moore, and Dak Prescott, propelling them to become some of the best values in fantasy football. With that in mind, let's take a closer look at my top 11 candidates for a bounce-back season in 2024.
Patrick Mahomes, the reigning fantasy QB1 in 2023, failed to meet expectations, finishing as the QB8 overall. A low touchdown rate, reduced intended air yards, and a high number of dropped passes by his receivers contributed to his underperformance. However, with the addition of talented wideouts Marquise Brown and Xavier Worthy, and potential regression to the mean, Mahomes has a strong chance of reclaiming his spot among the elite fantasy quarterbacks.
Kyler Murray faced some challenges last season, including recovering from a torn ACL and an inexperienced receiving corps. Nevertheless, he still managed to finish as the QB10 in fantasy points per game, showcasing his dual-threat abilities. Now fully healthy and with the addition of rookie standout Marvin Harrison Jr., Murray is poised for a resurgence. His combination of passing and rushing skills make him a valuable asset, comparable to players like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson but at a more favorable draft price.
Aaron Rodgers, who faced a disappointing 2022 campaign, had his chance for a bounce-back cut short by a season-ending Achilles injury in 2023. However, with an upgraded offensive line and a healthy return for the upcoming season, Rodgers has the potential to surprise fantasy managers. Despite skepticism around his abilities, Rodgers shouldn't be underestimated as a sleeper QB1 with top-six upside.
After a slightly underwhelming performance with the Raiders last season, Josh Jacobs has now joined the Green Bay Packers, where he finds himself in a better offensive environment. With the Packers boasting a higher ranking in both scoring and total offense compared to the Raiders, Jacobs is poised to take the lead in their running back corps. Given his consistent workload over the years, Jacobs is set to surpass his previous fantasy finish and produce impressive results in 2024.
Former Packers running back Aaron Jones, now with the Minnesota Vikings, seeks to prove himself after being released by Green Bay. Though he missed a few games last season, Jones had shown consistent production in previous years, averaging over 1,400 scrimmage yards per season. With his end-of-year momentum and a potentially prominent role in the Vikings' offense, guided by either Sam Darnold or rookie J.J. McCarthy, Jones could be a valuable draft pick with significant upside.
After an impressive rookie season and a solid second year, Jaylen Waddle experienced a dip in production last season, finishing as the WR34 in fantasy. Limited touchdown opportunities skewed the numbers, but with the Miami offense led by Tua Tagovailoa and a potentially normalized distribution of touchdowns, Waddle is poised to secure a return to his previous WR2 status.
Deshaun Watson has had his ups and downs since entering the league, hampered by injuries and uncertain quarterback situations. However, if he can remain healthy, Watson has the opportunity to lead the Green Bay Packers' receiving corps and become a top-12 performer at the position. His improved leg strength and a crowded receiver room fuel expectations for a bounce-back season.
Cooper Kupp, who once won the receiving triple crown, has faced challenges due to injuries in recent seasons. However, with the support of head coach Sean McVay and quarterback Matthew Stafford, who have previously demonstrated success in supporting multiple star receivers, Kupp has the potential to regain his status as a top fantasy wideout if he can stay healthy.
Kyle Pitts, after a promising rookie season, has struggled to maintain his production in the past two years. However, with a better quarterback situation, an additional year of development, and changes to the Atlanta Falcons' offense, Pitts is poised to bounce back and finish in the top five among tight ends in fantasy football.
Travis Kelce, widely regarded as one of the all-time greats, experienced a slight decline in production last season. Nonetheless, with an explosive Kansas City Chiefs offense and the potential for a more prolific season from quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Kelce remains a favorite target. He is expected to bounce back and deliver significant fantasy value.
Lastly, Eric Ebron, who experienced a decline in production in recent seasons, now has the opportunity to thrive under a change in offensive coordinator in Pittsburgh. With a coordinator who values the tight end position, Ebron has the potential to double his fantasy points from last season and provide considerable draft value.
These players, with the right circumstances and improvements, have the potential to bounce back and provide significant value in fantasy football for the 2024 season. Keeping an eye on their performances and incorporating them into your draft strategy could make all the difference in securing a playoff spot or winning the championship.