There is a battle brewing for the top receiver role with the Carolina Panthers between Devin Funchess and Kelvin Benjamin. Funchess continues to improve coming into his second year with the Panthers. Benjamin, the rookie standout for the Panthers in 2014, returns after missing all of his sophomore season with a torn ACL. Now, Benjamin realizes he will have to work hard to keep his role as Cam Newton’s top target, according to wide receivers coach Ricky Proehl.
Devin Funchess eyes top receiver spot, fantasy stock growing
Wide receiver battle emerges out of Carolina as Devin Funchess shows talent. We look at the fantasy implications.
Fantasy Spin:
Funchess is showing he can handle the top receiver role this preseason. Expect that to continue with Benjamin coming along slowly from his injury. Though Benjamin is still listed as the Panthers’ top receiver, Funchess’ improved play is worth taking note. It will take a lot for the second-year receiver to beat out Benjamin for the top receiver spot. Also, the Panthers have no shortage of talent in the receiving core. Cam Newton will spread the ball around amongst Funchess, Benjamin, Ted Ginn Jr. and Greg Olsen to name a few. Still Funchess is a solid WR2 and has potential to grow into a WR1 position.
