The NFL season is fast approaching, and it's time for fantasy owners to formulate their rosters. It's always a tall task to out draft other fantasy owners, but there are ways to get ahead. In this post, we're specifically looking at fantasy football rookie sleepers.
Most people know who to take at the top of the draft, but it's the sleepers late that could send your time on a title run. Acquiring great rookie players could be the difference for your fantasy team. Last year, the headliners of this category were Chase Claypool and Justin Jefferson. They were mostly picked up through waivers and had phenomenal rookie campaigns.
That said, here are the top 5 fantasy football rookie sleepers in 2021, ranked.
Fantasy Football Rookie Sleepers
5. Javonte Williams
A running back that could be a big difference-maker is Javonte Williams. Williams was drafted in the 2nd round by the Denver Broncos and could be the number one back this season. It will be between him and Melvin Gordon, but Williams has great upside.
Last season in college, Williams had 157 carries for 1,140 yards and 19 touchdowns. He was also productive in the receiving as he had 25 receptions for 305 yards and 3 touchdowns. It's not likely he'll put up that same production, but he could be a solid player for the Broncos.
Williams is a great all-around back that can do a little bit of everything. He is a powerful back, that has shown the ability to produce even with another running back alongside him. In college, he had Michael Carter in the backfield with him, and they were both able to put up good numbers.
Look for Williams to be a productive fantasy player this season, even in his rookie year.
4. Trey Lance
A player to target late in the draft is Trey Lance. Lance may not start right away for the San Francisco 49ers, but he could be worth the pick as your backup quarterback. He has shown his talent throughout the preseason, although Jimmy Garrapolo is likely to be the starter.
Lance was selected with the 3rd pick in the draft by the 49ers, and they traded up to select him. He is a dual-threat quarterback with a ton of athleticism. Lance also has a great arm and projects to be a great NFL player once he starts.
If you can get Lance late in the draft, don't hesitate to take him.
3. Elijah Moore
Elijah Moore is one of the most underrated picks in the draft. He was taken in the second round of the draft by the New York Jets. The Jets completely transformed their team in the offseason, including the staff. They brought in a new head coach in Robert Saleh, who will look to build a great young core.
Moore will have a rookie quarterback throwing him the ball in Zach Wilson. The Jets have a great shot at revitalizing their offense this season as they build up the core. Moore and Wilson have a chance to be an elite QB-WR combo, as many players have complimented Moore.
Look for Moore to be a great target for Wilson and a solid fantasy receiver this season.
2. Justin Fields
One of the best picks in the draft was Justin Fields. Fields was taken by the Chicago Bears with the 11th pick and has all the tools to be elite. He is a dual-threat quarterback that has shown the ability to perform at a high level during his time at Ohio State.
In his two seasons at Ohio State, Fields threw for 5,701 yards, 67 touchdowns, and only 9 interceptions. He also completed 68.4 percent of your passes, which shows his efficiency in the passing game.
The only knock on Fields right now is he will not play week one. Andy Dalton was named the week one starter, but Fields still has the major upside. If you can get him late in the draft, he would be a good selection.
1. Kyle Pitts
A highly touted prospect out of college was a tight end, Kyle Pitts. Pitts was taken by the Atlanta Falcons with the 4th pick in the draft and is primed to be a top 10 fantasy tight end in year one. Tight ends in their rookie years rarely have a great season, but Pitts is so talented that he has the ability to do it.
He is a great combination of size, athleticism, speed, and has an elite catching ability. Pitts will be a great addition to the Falcons offense, as they try to rebuild it after trading away Julio Jones.
Look for Pitts to have a great rookie campaign and be an intriguing player for fantasy owners to select.
The NFL season is almost here, and fantasy owners need to build their rosters soon. If you can get these rookies on your team, they could put your team over the top.
Follow Us
Subscribe