More evidence of the coaching staff's favoritism toward Markus Wheaton over Martavis Bryant presented itself during the Pittsburgh Steelers' second preseason game on Sunday. As a result, fantasy owners who were high on Bryant after he came on strong at the end of 2014 are left scratching their heads.
Martavis Bryant behind Markus Wheaton on Steelers depth chart, fantasy owners must plan accordingly
Martavis Bryant continues to operate behind Markus Wheaton on the Pittsburgh Steelers depth chart. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Wheaton played ahead of Bryant in two-wide sets versus the Green Bay Packers, although Bryant got some time with the first stringers in three-wide formations. Wheaton finished his afternoon with three catches for 42 yards and a touchdown, while Bryant caught just one pass for 12 yards.
Fantasy Spin: It’s safe to say that Wheaton has a firm grasp on the Steelers’ second WR spot for the time being, although that isn’t to say Bryant’s value is gone. Bryant remains a formidable red-zone presence, which could mitigate having a low number of targets.
Though fantasy owners are undoubtedly disappointed that Bryant won’t have a larger role in the offense than anticipated, it doesn’t mean there isn’t value to be had from him this season. It would be advised to pass on him at his current fourth-round average draft position, but a high-touchdown upside would warrant pulling the trigger in the mid-rounds. Wheaton appears to be a bargain at his current 11th round ADP.
