Like running back, the class of rookie wide receivers is deep in 2017. The task for fantasy owners is identifying which players will make the biggest impacts right away. Here are the top 10 rookies in the field, with comments for the top five:
2017 fantasy football rankings: Rookie wide receivers
We take a look at how the rookie class of wide receivers stacks up in fantasy football following the 2017 NFL Draft.
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We know what Marcus Mariota is capable of. We saw him become one of the top fantasy quarterbacks in the league last season, throwing primarily to Rishard Matthews and Delanie Walker. Now the Titans have a legit deep threat and goal-line threat in Davis, who will make an impact right away. At some point, the Titans are going to lessen DeMarco Murray’s workload, and having a receiver like Davis could accelerate that process as a legit WR2 or WR3 option.
The Bengals offense could be fascinating in 2017 with A.J. Green and Ross stretching defenses to a breaking point. Ross was the 40-yard dash phenom at the combine, and he will take the top of defenses that might be inclined to offer single coverage, less they allow Green to run free. But can Ross carve out enough targets on a team with so many receiving options? That’s the caveat to keep in mind when pulling the trigger on Ross.
Williams has the talent to be a productive NFL wideout, and having Philip Rivers throwing to him is certainly appealing. But with Keenan Allen presumably healthy and Tyrell Williams a year older in the system — not to mention Antonio Gates and Hunter Henry commanding targets at tight end — it might be hard for Williams to make a big impact in 2017. He is a dynasty gem, for sure, but could probably wait until the end of most season-long drafts.
Samuel will likely man the slot for the Panthers, but don’t be surprised if Carolina uses him much the way the Chiefs employed Tyreek Hill. Samuel can run it, he can go deep, and he can return kicks. That kind of versatility could make him a fine flex option as a rookie.
The all-time leader in FBS receptions, Jones steps into a tremendous situation in Buffalo, where he will likely start alongside Sammy Watkins. With defenses rightly focused on Watkins, Jones has a chance to make an immediate impact, especially in PPR leagues. Jones can probably be snapped up late in drafts, making him one of the most appealing sleeper picks among all rookies.
6. Josh Reynolds, Los Angeles Rams
7. JuJu Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh Steelers
8. ArDarius Stewart, New York Jets
9. Taywan Taylor, Tennessee Titans
10. Carlos Henderson, Denver Broncos
