Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin should be quarterback Cam Newton's top target this season, and given that we all know that, opposing teams are obviously informed as well. Benjamin was the top receiver throughout the preseason and he has the most big-play ability of the receivers in Carolina, but that could also be a negative to some extent.
Kelvin Benjamin could see plenty of double coverage; fantasy value still solid
Kelvin Benjamin will get plenty of looks this season, and that counts for opposing defenses as well. We break down the fantasy implications.
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According to Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer, there is "concern among some in the organization that Benjamin will face a barrage of double coverage." That's due to the fact that Jason Avant and Jerricho Cotchery, the next two receivers on the depth chart, are possession guys who have never been known as burners around the NFL. It's a valid concern, as teams could play man-to-man with the other two and keep their best players on Benjamin.
Fantasy Impact: Benjamin was always a risky fantasy pick not because he’s lacking in talent, but because he’s so raw and is going to be asked to do so much. Newton will be looking for Benjamin early and often, and there will be a lot of pressure on him to perform. Add to that the fact that he’ll be facing No. 1 cornerbacks and you have the reason he’s an outside WR3 option at this point.
