Draft Day Winners and Losers
Mon Apr 29 11:53am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
White should be lead back
The draft is always so exciting, seeing where all the players get picked. But after the draft, the big issue is figuring out what it all means for their fantasy value. We thought it would be a good idea to look at some of the biggest fantasy winners and losers from draft day. These are some of the players that were picked but also some of the guys that were already on rosters, seeing their fantasy value get impacted from the draft. Adjust your rankings accordingly!
WINNERS
Bryce Young, QB, Panthers. The Panthers did a great job of getting Young some much needed offensive help. The team took a receiver, running back and tight end in three of the first four rounds of the draft. Carolina already added Diontae Johnson this offseason, so the receiver corps should be much better after getting Xavier Legette in the first round. The receivers got very little separation last year, so it was hard to gauge Young. He needed help and got some this offseason. Carolina also took a possible franchise running back in Jonathon Brooks and hopefully a solid starting tight end in Ja’Tavion Sanders. Things are looking up for Young and this offense.
Xavier Worthy, WR, Chiefs. Worthy could not have landed in a much better spot. He heads to one of the best offenses in football that has some openings at receiver, especially with the status of Rashee Rice a bit up in the air. Worthy has electric speed and the Chiefs should find plenty of ways to utilize that. He could be the new Tyreek Hill for this offense. Look for Worthy to make an impact right away.
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys. Maybe one of the biggest surprises of the draft was the Cowboys not addressing their running back spot. Instead, the team signed Elliott after the draft. He is likely to be the starter in this top offense. He might not rack up the yards of past seasons, but has big touchdown potential in this offense. Elliott seems a pretty sure bet to get double-digit touchdowns. He could be a solid No. 2 for fantasy teams.
Jonathon Brooks, RB, Panthers. Brooks is returning from a major knee injury and could be slowed a little early in the season, but once he is back healthy look for him to the three-down back for the Panthers. He lands in a great spot for playing time, having little top talent to compete with for playing time. Brooks could really get the volume in this offense. He is our top rookie fantasy back.
Zamir White, RB, Raiders. Many thought the Raiders were another team that could address their running back spot during the draft, but that didn’t happen. They used a sixth-round pick on Dylan Laube, but he is not expected to challenge White for that starter’s job. It sure seems the Raiders are comfortable with White as their lead back. He has a chance to get a lot of touches in year two. His stock is going up.
Ladd McConkey, WR, Chargers. The Chargers need help at receiver and McConkey helps fill that need. It would not surprise if he quickly became Justin Herbert’s favorite target in the passing game. We really like his chances to rack up the weekly looks in this offense. Someone has to fill the Keenan Allen void and McConkey seems the best bet out of the options at receiver for the Chargers.
Keon Coleman, WR, Bills. Coleman is another rookie receiver that lands in a great spot for playing time. The departure of Stefon Diggs leaves a big opening for the Bills. Coleman could help fill that void. He has great size for the position and could be a top red-zone threat from day one for Buffalo. Coleman should get his chances from the get go, giving him a high ceiling for the coming year.
LOSERS
Raheem Mostert, RB, Dolphins. Mostert had a monster season last year and helped many fantasy teams to championships. He is going to have a very hard time repeating, especially after the Dolphins picked Jaylen Wright in the fourth round. Wright is a speed back similar to Mostert but a lot younger with less wear on his tires. Remember, Mostert is 32 years old. He might end up falling to third on the depth chart after the addition of Wright.
Rome Odunze, WR, Bears. Odunze is a super talented player that could be a star in the NFL. But for his year, you have to worry about him being up and down. He has two really good receivers ahead of him on the depth chart in DJ Moore and Keenan Allen. This is going to limit the ceiling of Odunze. He will be a much better fantasy player in a few more seasons. For now, expect erratic production from the talented rookie.
Kyren Williams, RB, Rams. Williams remains the lead back for the Rams and is coming off a breakout season. But the Rams picked Blake Corum in the third round. He is going to be a factor in the offense. He might get put a huge dent in Williams’ workload but the big concern is the goal-line work. Corum is more of a between the tackles runner that does well on short-yardage work. He could end up stealing some touchdowns from Williams, hurting his fantasy value.
Michael Mayer, TE, Raiders. Mayer was a second-round pick for the Raiders last year and showed well at times his rookie season. The Raiders couldn’t pass on the talented Brock Browers in this year’s draft, though. This move absolutely kills the fantasy value of Mayer. He is going to play second fiddle to Browers, getting few weekly looks. Browers is the clear tight end to own in this offense.
Ricky Pearsall, WR, 49ers. Pearsall is a talented pass catcher that can get in and out of his breaks in a hurry. He is a really good fit for the slot and could fill that role for the 49ers his rookie season. The problem is he has some of the top talent in all of football to compete with for targets. He could really be up and down his rookie season. He will look better in a year or two when he has a more defined role and less to compete with at receiver. His rookie season could be a tough one to gauge for fantasy owners.
Malik Nabers, WR, Giants. Many considered Nabers the top receiver in this year’s draft. He is super talented with a high fantasy ceiling. The problem for Nabers is he got drafted by the Giants, a team that really struggled offensively last year. Plus, he has Daniel Jones throwing him passes. This is not a great landing spot for the talented Nabers. Jones needs to make some big strides this season if Nabers hopes to reach his potential. We aren’t sure that happens.
Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
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The Paur Report
Bender's Starts/Sits: Week 3
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (knee) didn't do much in a Week 3 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, then was forced to leave early after aggravating his ankle injury. Herbert attempted 18 passes, completing 12 of them for 125 yards and a touchdown. He recorded one rush attempt, but did not gain any yardage. Herbert's touchdown went to Quentin Johnston in the first quarter to open the scoring, but the Chargers offense couldn't get much done after that, especially after Herbert limped off the field. It's unclear if he'll be able to start next week against the Chiefs, Taylor Heinicke would be in line for the start if Herbert misses time.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) was spotted in a walking boot following the Chargers' loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert entered Week 3 with a high-ankle sprain and aggravated the injury midway through the game. After the game, Herbert did mention that he is hopeful to be able to play in Week 4. Prior to his exit, Herbert had thrown for 125 yards and a touchdown. Herbert was replaced by Taylor Heinicke who completed both of his passes for 24 yards. If Herbert is forced to miss time with this injury, it would be a huge blow to the Chargers offense. The offense already struggled with Herbert in the lineup against a talented Steelers defense. The loss of Herbert would affect the Chargers' pass catchers and running backs in fantasy. For now, fantasy managers should monitor the situation.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins was slowed down by the Pittsburgh Steelers in a Week 3 loss. Dobbins ran the ball 15 times, gaining 44 yards. He added three catches on three targets, gaining an additional 10 yards. His 18 touches were by far the most in the Chargers backfield, as Gus Edwards was second with just three. Dobbins has clearly taken over the RB1 role for the Chargers and will certainly have bigger weeks than this very tough matchup in a low scoring game. Dobbins and the Chargers will face the Kansas City Chiefs next week, possibly without starting quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle).
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers kicker Brayden Narveson was perfect on the day in the Packers' 30-14 victory against the Titans in Week 3. Narveson booted home all three field goal attempts from 21, 26, and 47 yards and converted all three extra-point attempts. The Packers' offense is plenty potent enough no matter who is starting at quarterback, which is always a great thing for fantasy kickers. With three consecutive double-digit fantasy scoring games to start his NFL career, Narveson is quickly ascending the ranks of fantasy kickers and should now be considered a solid starting option going forward.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers running back Gus Edwards barely touched the ball in a Week 3 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a 20-10 loss, Edwards ran the ball just three times, gaining a total of nine yards. He was not targeted in the passing game. The Bolts ran the ball 20 times, with J.K. Dobbins getting 15 of those rushes. Dobbins has clearly taken over the RB1 role in this backfield, leaving Edwards to a backup and likely goal line role. He'll have some boom weeks if game situation gets him in the red zone, but he's no more than a dart throw FLEX play most weeks.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields completed 25 of 32 attempts for 245 yards, one touchdown, and one interception while rushing for six yards and a score in a win over the Los Angeles Chargers. Outside of a turnover coming off a deflected pass, Fields was incredibly effective under center, leading Pittsburgh to its first 3-0 start since 2020. The 25-year-old completed each of his first 10 throws and scrambled into the end zone early in the second quarter. While George Pickens remained his favorite target, it was wideout Calvin Austin III on the receiving end of Fields' touchdown pass, a strike over the middle of the field taken 55 yards to the house. Fields is looking increasingly comfortable in offensive coordinator Arthur Smith's system and should be viewed as a high-end QB2 in fantasy for as long as he keeps the starting gig.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard ran six times for 14 yards, adding three receptions for 15 yards in a loss to Green Bay. It was a putrid fantasy day for the former Cowboy, who was looking like a great value in the later rounds of drafts after being featured heavily in Weeks 1-2. Game script definitely played a huge part in the low volume for Pollard, as the Titans went down very early and were forced to rely on the arm of quarterback Will Levis, which did not get them very far. Green Bay had been weak against the run coming into this game, but completely dominated the Titans up front, which did not bode well for Pollard. He will look to bounce back in Week 4 vs. Miami.
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs was a minor part of the Packers' 30-14 victory against the Tennessee Titans in Week 3. Jacobs tallied 43 rushing yards on the ground on 14 carries while securing his only target for a five-yard reception. Outshined by fellow running back Emanuel Wilson, Jacobs had his worst game as a Packer as he could not get much going on the day. The Packers' game plan saw Green Bay continue to emphasize the run with Malik Willis starting another game for Jordan Love (knee), who was ruled out before kickoff. For fantasy purposes, Jacobs remains a solid low-end RB1 in a tough upcoming matchup in Week 4 against the revitalized Minnesota Vikings' defensive unit.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris handled 18 carries for 70 yards and hauled in all five of his targets for 16 yards in a 20-10 victory against the Los Angeles Chargers. Harris got off to a sluggish start, concluding the first half with just three yards on the ground. Although the fourth-year pro did most of his damage in the fourth quarter, he was utilized as a pass-catcher throughout the game. Surprisingly, he received 19 more touches than Jaylen Warren after the latter became more involved in Pittsburgh's offense last week. Harris is still searching for his first touchdown of the campaign, but fantasy managers can trust his usage in neutral and positive game scripts. His next opportunity will come on the road against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans running back Tyjae Spears rushed two times for seven yards, adding four receptions on four targets for 54 yards in a 30-14 loss against Green Bay. It was the best fantasy performance thus far for Spears, who had been completely overshadowed by his backfield mate Tony Pollard up to this point. Because the Titans went down early and had to abandon the run, Spears saw more work and snaps than Pollard who only managed 29 scrimmage yards. The opportunities for these two backs will be heavily dependent on game script for the Titans, with a negative situation favoring Spears. The 2nd-year pro will look to continue this momentum next week against Miami in a primetime matchup.
From RotoBaller
Seattle Seahawks defensive end Leonard Williams (ribs) exited in the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins. He is officially listed as questionable to return. After heading to the blue tent holding his side, Williams could be seen heading to the locker room. Williams is an important piece of a much improved Seahawks defensive line. In 2024, Williams has recorded six total tackles and 1.5 sacks. If he cannot return to the game then his absence will profoundly impact the Seahawks D/ST. Hopefully, the injury is not serious but fantasy managers rostering the Seahawks D/ST should be aware of his status.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis completed 24-of-36 passes for 260 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions, also losing a fumble against Green Bay. It was another struggle of an afternoon for the young quarterback, who had his second three turnover game to start the season. Levis was constantly under pressure for the third straight week, which led to eight Sacks by the Packers. The only promising takeaway from this game was that Levis hit his third highest yardage total of his young career, but the Titans offense continues to look ineffective with him at the helm. The 25-year-old is simply too turnover prone to trust in fantasy right now, even in 2QB leagues. Levis will look to get his first win of the 2024 season next Monday against Miami.
From RotoBaller
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Calvin Ridley caught just one pass for nine yards in a 30-14 home loss to Green Bay. After an explosion last week, Ridley was completely taken out of the game on Sunday, receiving only three targets on the afternoon. This volatility might be the norm due to the consistent nature of the Titans' passing attack with quarterback Will Levis throwing the ball, but the low target volume is very odd. It's also worth noting that veteran DeAndre Hopkins finished with a 6-73-1 line and led the team with seven targets, potentially signaling a shift in the alpha status of Titans' pass catchers. Ridley will look to bounce back next Monday night against the Dolphins.
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis had himself a banner day in Week 3 as he threw for 202 yards and a touchdown through the air in the Packers' 30-14 victory against the Tennessee Titans. Willis also added 73 rushing yards and another touchdown on the ground, showing promise filling in for starting quarterback Jordan Love (knee), who was ruled out this week. Love may return in Week 4 at home against the Minnesota Vikings and that would relegate Willis back to backup quarterbacking duties behind Love. Of course, if Love is back in the lineup for the Packers, Willis can be safely dropped in seasonal fantasy formats.
From RotoBaller
The Kansas City Chiefs have benched rookie left tackle Kingsley Suamataia in favor of Wanya Morris for their Week 3 game on Sunday night against the Atlanta Falcons. Suamataia struggled in Week 2 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson had his way with the rookie all day. The move may be welcome for fantasy managers. Morris may be able to allow quarterback Patrick Mahomes more time to operate on Sunday night. That will be important for Mahomes' fantasy stock and the various pass catchers in the Kansas City offense.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers running back Isaac Guerendo will handle kickoff returns in place of injured wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (calf) in Week 3, according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic. Barrows notes that the majority of kickoffs in 2024 have resulted in touchbacks, but if the Rams attempt any kicks that are returnable, Guerendo will handle that duty. The 24-year-old rookie has seen minimal opportunities on offense this year, rushing just once while handling one percent of offensive snaps in Week 2. He's off the fantasy radar.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Rams kicker Joshua Karty (groin) is officially active for Week 3 versus the San Francisco 49ers. He had been listed as questionable after logging a limited practice on Friday. Karty has not yet missed a kick through two weeks in the NFL, converting three extra points and three field goals (including one from 40+ yards out). However, the Rams enter Sunday's game without Cooper Kupp (ankle) and Puka Nacua (knee), which is bad news for their offense's chances of scoring. As a result, Karty's upside is also limited. He can be avoided in most fantasy leagues this week.
From RotoBaller
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith (concussion) has been ruled out for the remainder of Week 3 versus the New Orleans Saints. He exited the game in the second half. At the time of his departure, he had caught seven of 10 targets for 79 yards. Smith had earned an uptick in targets lately with A.J. Brown (hamstring) sidelined. Now, Philadelphia will be without both of its top two receivers for the end of Sunday's game and perhaps beyond. Tight end Dallas Goedert figures to be the centerpiece of the passing game while receivers Johnny Wilson, Jahan Dotson, and Parris Campbell also get involved. The Eagles face the Buccaneers next weekend before heading into a Week 5 bye.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) exited during the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is officially questionable to return. Herbert entered this week with an ankle injury and was a game-time decision. While the Chargers ultimately decided he was healthy enough to play, they kept a third quarterback active in case Herbert re-aggravated his injury and had to exit the contest. That exact scenario is now coming into play after Herbert exited. At the time of his departure, he had completed 12 passes for 125 yards and one touchdown. Taylor Heinicke entered the game in his place.
From RotoBaller
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Greg Dortch (hamstring) is officially active for Week 3 against the Detroit Lions. He had been listed as questionable entering the weekend, but there was a growing sense that he would suit up. Dortch is expected to operate as the Cardinals' No. 3 receiver behind Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, and he'll also compete for touches with running back James Conner and tight end Trey McBride. Dortch has the potential to be a target hog, especially in the short-yardage passing game. However, he's only on the fantasy radar in deep leagues.
From RotoBaller
