[h=1]Fantasy football: Ranking the No. 3 WRs around the NFL[/h]
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Kenny Golladay. Calvin Ridley. Cooper Kupp. Keke Coutee. Christian Kirk. DJ Moore. Adam Humphries. Albert Wilson. Anthony Miller. Courtland Sutton. DaeSean Hamilton. Mike Williams. Robert Foster. Willie Snead. David Moore.
Each and every year there is a lengthy list of wide receivers who were in the fantasy spotlight the prior season despite entering Week 1 third or lower on their respective teams' depth charts.
Fantasy football leagues aren't won during the first few rounds of your draft. Players will often underwhelm and/or go down with injuries. For this reason, it's important to become familiar not only with superstars, but also with role players and emerging youngsters who could find themselves on the fantasy radar during the 2019 season.
With that in mind, I have ranked the current No. 3 wide receivers for each NFL team in terms of expected 2019 fantasy production -- not strictly on skill. As you'll see in the explanations, scheme, playing-time security and supporting cast are among the other variables in play.
Some of these players are worth your attention on draft day, while others are names to scoop up in dynasty leagues or file away for later.
Note: Mentions of three-plus wide receiver sets throughout this article refer only to pass plays.
1. Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams
If there's one thing we know about Sean McVay, it's that he loves the '11' personnel package (one running back, one tight end, three wide receivers). In fact, during five NFL seasons as an offensive coordinator or head coach, McVay has been in '11' on 2,501 (or 84.3%) of 2,964 pass plays. McVay ran more pass plays in '11' during the 2018 regular season (575) than he has in every other package combined in his career (463). With three or more receivers on the field a league-high 97% of the time last season, Kupp, Brandin Cooks and Robert Woods were all full-time players when healthy. All three were Top 11 in fantasy points among wide receivers and should be considered Top 20 options in 2019.
2. Keke Coutee, Houston Texans
The Texans have ranked 18th, 10th, 19th, 25th and, most recently, dead last in three-plus wide receiver sets during Bill O'Brien's five seasons as head coach. That may seem damning, but Coutee -- Houston's 2018 fourth-round pick -- made a sizable impact when healthy during his rookie campaign. During the five games he played in full, Coutee averaged a ridiculous 10.0 targets per game, actually out-targeting DeAndre Hopkins 50 to 47. The undersized slot receiver figures to force O'Brien and company into more '11' sets, assuming both Hopkins and Will Fuller V are also healthy. Coutee is an intriguing breakout candidate and terrific late-round pick in fantasy drafts.
3. James Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers had a new offensive coordinator in Randy Fichtner last season, but that didn't change the team's heavy reliance on three-wide sets. Pittsburgh had three or more receivers on the field for 87% of its pass plays (second highest) and four or more on the field for 13% of plays (highest). Antonio Brown is gone, but the Steelers still have plenty of mouths to feed at wide receiver. That includes 2018 second-round pick Washington, who figures to open his second season behind JuJu Smith-Schuster and Donte' Moncrief. Washington struggled to 16 catches in 14 games as a rookie, but he'll have a tremendous opportunity for a breakout in Pittsburgh's high-scoring and receiver-friendly offense.
4. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Green Bay Packers
The Packers have finished no lower than eighth in three-plus wide receivers each of the past 12 seasons. It's possible that changes with Matt LaFleur replaced Mike McCarthy as head coach, though LaFleur is a branch of the aforementioned three-wide-happy McVay coaching tree. Valdes-Scantling is competing with Geronimo Allison for No. 2 duties, but Green Bay's probable personnel deployment suggests both will be very busy regardless of that outcome. Both players are terrific late-round picks in Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers-led offense.
5. DaeSean Hamilton, Denver Broncos
It's unclear how often new Denver OC Rich Scangarello will rely on three-wide sets, but his extensive background working under Kyle Shanahan (more on him later) suggests it won't be often. Add first-round rookie TE Noah Fant to the mix and Hamilton certainly could be limited a bit if he falls clearly behind Emmanuel Sanders and Courtland Sutton on the depth chart. Of course, Hamilton gets a bump here as he could get some early run as the team's No. 2 wide receiver while Sanders recovers from a torn Achilles. His weak rookie-season efficiency is a concern (5.4 YPT), but Hamilton's situation suggests he's well worth a late-round pick.
6. Jamison Crowder, New York Jets
New coach Adam Gase has always been heavy on three-plus wide sets and that doesn't figure to change in New York. Gase has been a head coach or OC each of the past six seasons and his units have ranked third, fifth, 10th, fourth, second and fifth in the category. That's good news for offseason addition Crowder, who will work the slot between Robby Anderson and Quincy Enunwa. Injuries limited Crowder last season, but he was a Top 33 fantasy receiver each of the previous two seasons. He's a sneaky late target in PPR.
7. Mecole Hardman, Kansas City Chiefs
Coach Andy Reid loves to throw the football, but that simply hasn't led to much reliance on three-plus wide sets. Kansas City has ranked 30th, 27th, 30th, 30th and, most recently, 29th in the category over the past five seasons. The key for Hardman will be the status of Tyreek Hill. If Hill is suspended, Hardman's top competition for snaps will be the likes of Demarcus Robinson, Byron Pringleand Gehrig Dieter behind Sammy Watkins. That would push him onto the flex radar. If Hill is a go, Hardman figures to operate as no more than a situational player. For now, Hardman is well worth a late pick.
8. Anthony Miller, Chicago Bears
Coach Matt Nagy comes from the Andy Reid coaching tree, so it's hardly a surprise that the Bears ranked 27th in the NFL in three-plus wide receiver sets in his first season as head coach. That was costly for Miller, who found his way to seven touchdowns, but ranked 69th at the position in routes and 76th in targets as a rookie. It's certainly possible Miller overtakes Taylor Gabriel as the team's No. 2 this season, but the veteran was well ahead in every category last season. Playing time could elude him in this offense, but Miller's potential Year 2 leap makes him a fine late round flier.
9. Parris Campbell, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts ranked 20th in the NFL in three-plus wide receiver sets (74%) in Frank Reich's first season as the head coach. And that was with Jack Doylemissing most of the season. The Colts upgraded wide receiver with Devin Funchess and Campbell during the offseason, but Eric Ebron, Mo Alie-Cox and Doyle will all be factors at tight end. Campbell figures to be deployed as a rusher, slot receiver and returner (think Randall Cobb) and, though volume could elude him early on, there's upside here in a shaky wide receiver room in one of the league's top pass offenses. Campbell belongs on benches.
10. Albert Wilson, Miami Dolphins
New Dolphins coach Brian Flores and OC Chad O'Shea defected from the Patriots - a team that hasn't ranked above average in three-plus receiver sets since 2009. It's obviously no lock they follow suit, but notable nonetheless as we consider possible contributions from DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Wilson, Jakeem Grant and Preston Williams. Wilson was fantasy's No. 25 scoring wideout prior to suffering a hip injury last season and is positioned for a big opportunity on a seemingly wide open Dolphins' depth chart. He's a sneaky late-round pick.
11. Mohamed Sanu, Atlanta Falcons
Dirk Koetter is back as the Falcons' OC following a brief stint as the Buccaneers' head coach. Atlanta came in above average in three-plus wide receiver sets during each of Koetter's previous three seasons with the team (2012-14). Meanwhile, Tampa Bay ranked eighth in the category (82%) under Koetter last season. Sanu actually worked ahead of Calvin Ridley last season, but the latter is in line for a promotion in his second season, whereas Sanu was on the trade block earlier this offseason. There's still room for Sanu to push for flex numbers in this high-scoring, pass-heavy offense, but Sanu lacks a high ceiling. He's more valuable in deeper leagues.
12. DJ Chark, Jacksonville Jaguars
At 83%, the Jaguars ranked sixth in three-plus wide receiver sets last season. The team has a new OC in John DeFilippo, though note that Minnesota ranked 12th in the category at 80% during his time as the team's OC last season. That bodes well for Chark, who was selected in the second round of the 2018 draft. The second-year wideout will compete with the likes of Marqise Lee (PUP candidate), Dede Westbrook and Chris Conley for snaps and targets. Chark could prove to be a steal considering he's all but free in most 2019 fantasy drafts.
13. Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have ranked 28th and 31st in three-plus wide receiver sets during Kyle Shanahan's two seasons with the team. That's been a theme for Shanahan's offenses, which have been below average in the category during nine of his 11 seasons as a head coach or OC. That may not bode well for Samuel, especially considering he's already battling a groin injury. The rookie is competing with Dante Pettis, Marquise Goodwin, Jalen Hurd and Trent Taylor (among others) for snaps and targets. Shanahan's offense will make it tough for more than two receivers to push for fantasy relevance. Samuel is a better flier in deep and dynasty leagues.
14. Andy Isabella, Arizona Cardinals
Kliff Kingsbury is new to the NFL coaching world, but the expectation is that Arizona will rank near the top of the league in both three and four-wide sets. That would mean plenty of playing time for Isabella and fellow rookie Hakeem Butler behind Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk. Isabella is on the small side, but versatile enough to play inside and out and fast enough (4.31 40 yard dash) to stretch the field. The reigning FBS receiving yardage leader should be on your radar in the late rounds.
15. Tre'Quan Smith, New Orleans Saints
The Saints have finished outside the top 20 in three-plus wide sets each of the past six seasons. That includes a 65% rate that ranked 28th in the league in 2018. With Michael Thomas and Ted Ginn Jr. in the fold, this means Smith may have trouble finding the field enough to push for flex value this season. The 2018 third-round pick flashed as a rookie, but unless he unseats 33-year-old Ginn, he's no more than an end-of-bench stash.
16. A.J. Brown, Tennessee Titans
Tennessee was extremely run heavy and ranked 26th in the league in three-plus wide receiver sets (70%) in Mike Vrabel's first season as head coach. The Titans upgraded at wide receiver with Adam Humphries and second-round pick Brown, but they'll also get back Delanie Walker from injury, so we shouldn't expect a major change in philosophy. Brown has good size and is a terrific all-around prospect, but his career figures to begin slowly. The 2019 second-round pick is only worth a late pick in 12-team formats.
17. Randall Cobb, Dallas Cowboys
Dallas had three or more receivers on the field for 83% of its pass plays last season (fourth highest) and has ranked well below average in the category each of the past three seasons. That bodes well for newcomer Cobb, who will slide in as Cole Beasley's replacement in the slot behind Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup. Dallas' low-volume, run-first offense limits Cobb's upside, however. The former Packer hasn't cracked the Top 30 at wide receiver since 2015, but could flirt with flex numbers in deep PPR formats.
18. Robert Foster, Buffalo Bills
Believe it or not, the run-heavy, defensive-minded Bills ranked 10th in three-plus wide receiver sets last season (80%). The team made wholesale offensive changes during the offseason, but the additions of John Brown and Beasley suggests they'll continue to roll out plenty of '11' sets. It's unknown how the Bills will deploy the four wide receivers atop the depth chart, but the team's 2018 personnel usage suggests Brown, Beasley, Foster and Zay Jones could all be factors. Of course, Buffalo will still run often and Josh Allen's accuracy remains a major concern, so there's little reason to invest much in this group.
19. David Moore, Seattle Seahawks
Despite OC Brian Schottenheimer calling one of the league's run-heaviest offenses last season, the Seahawks had three or more wide receivers on the field for 80% of their pass plays, which was the league's 11th-highest rate. That's especially notable following the retirement of Doug Baldwin. Moore, who is entering his third NFL season after posting a 26-445-5 line in 2018, will compete with rookies D.K. Metcalf and Gary Jennings, as well as Jaron Brownfor a spot in Seattle's "Top 3". The former seventh-round pick is a longshot for consistent fantasy production in the Seahawks' run-first scheme.
20. Nelson Agholor, Philadelphia Eagles
Offensive-minded Eagles head coach Doug Pederson has ranked below average in three-plus wide receiver sets throughout his career as a coach and coordinator. That includes a 58% rate in 2018, which was third-lowest in the league. Agholor ranked seventh in the league in pass routes last season, but was only 30th in targets. His workload only figures to decrease with DeSean Jacksonand JJ Arcega-Whiteside in the fold and with impressive TE Dallas Goedertentering his second season.
21. Antonio Callaway, Cleveland Browns
Cleveland's offense will look a bit different this season with Freddie Kitchens promoted to head coach and Todd Monken hired as OC. Cleveland ranked just below league average in three-wide sets during Kitchens' eight games as OC last season. The Buccaneers were all over the place in terms of three-plus wide sets during Monken's time in Tampa Bay, though the Buccaneers did rank eighth in the category last season. Callaway is the favorite over Rashard Higgins to win No. 3 duties behind target hogs Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry. Callaway's vertical ability could lead him to the occasional big week, but consistent targets will be tough to find in this offense.
22. Travis Benjamin, Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers increased their usage of three-plus wide receiver sets from 71% in 2017 (Anthony Lynn's first season as head coach) to 78% last season. The change was predictable with Hunter Henry out and with Mike Williams in his second season. Of course, with Henry back and Tyrell Williams gone, it's possible the number regresses in 2019. Benjamin is a noteworthy deep sleeper, but keep in mind that the 29 year old has one Top 45 fantasy campaign to his name and that was back in 2015.
23. Danny Amendola, Detroit Lions
The Lions ranked 12th in three-plus (80%) and third in four-plus (8%) wide receiver sets last season. New OC Darrell Bevell's last five offenses have ranked above average in the category. That suggests we should expect the Lions to be above average in 2019, but it may not be by much after T.J. Hockenson and Jesse James were added to the tight end room. Golden Tate had plenty of fantasy success as Matthew Stafford's slot receiver, but Amendola turns 34 years old this season, doesn't figure to see near as much volume as Tate and hasn't posted a Top 40 fantasy season since 2010. He's only worth a look in super deep PPR leagues.
24. Trey Quinn, Washington Redskins
Starting with 2014, the Redskins have ranked seventh, fifth, eighth, 13th and 15th in three-plus wide sets during Jay Gruden's five seasons as head coach. Though Gruden has progressively relied on heavier sets, injuries and underperformance have been rampant at the wide receiver position. With Paul Richardson healthy, Josh Doctson in the mix and Terry McLaurin drafted, Washington could move back into the Top 10 in 2019. That'd be good news for Quinn, who caught all but one of his 10 targets for 75 yards and a score in three rookie-season affairs. Last season's Mr. Irrelevant is a deep sleeper.
25. John Ross, Cincinnati Bengals
New HC Zac Taylor was extremely heavy on three-plus wide receiver sets during a brief stint as the Dolphins' OC back in 2015 (79%) before spending the past two seasons as an assistant to three-wide-heavy Sean McVay. That adds some promise to Ross' outlook, though the third-year receiver's horrific efficiency is a major red flag. Ross somehow scored seven touchdowns in 2018, but his 3.6 yards per target and 36% catch rate were both dead last at the position. Ross' world class speed is all that keeps him in the late-round discussion in deep leagues.
26. Hunter Renfrow, Oakland Raiders
Despite a very shaky group of wide receivers, the Raiders ranked 18th in three-plus wide receiver sets last season (76%). In coach Jon Gruden and OC Greg Olson's second season with the team, we should expect that number to rise (perhaps significantly) with Antonio Brown, Tyrell Williams, J.J. Nelson, Ryan Grant and Renfrow added to the fold. Renfrow was selected by Oakland in the fifth round of April's draft. The 5-foot-10, 184-pound Clemson product has a path to a significant rookie season role with the team's slot gig up for grabs between Brown and Williams. Renfrow is an underrated dynasty hold and could sneak into value in deep PPR leagues in 2019.
27. Chris Moore, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have ranked no higher than 25th in three-plus wide receiver sets over the past five seasons. A majority of that came with Joe Flacco under center, though Baltimore ranked 26th (65%) in the category during Jackson's seven regular season starts last season. Moore very well could open the season higher on the depth chart, but third in line is a safe estimate with first-round pick Marquise Brown and slot Willie Snead in the fold. Moore -- a 2016 fourth-round pick -- may truly get an opportunity to break out this season, but Baltimore's run-heavy attack figures to cap the fantasy appeal of most of the team's pass catchers.
28. Phillip Dorsett, New England Patriots
The Patriots had a third wide receiver on the field for 69% of pass plays last season, which ranked 26th in the league. The Patriots have ranked below average in the category each of the past nine seasons with an average rate of 53% (second lowest) during the span. Despite New England's underwhelming wide receiver room last season. Dorsett was limited to a 32-290-3 line in 16 games. He's unlikely to work his way into the fantasy discussion, even if he surprisingly fends off rookie N'Keal Harry for No. 2 duties.
29. Chad Beebe, Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have ranked right around league average in three-plus wide sets during each of Mike Zimmer's five seasons as the team's head coach. That includes 13th (79%) last season. Beebe, who went undrafted last year, made a brief appearance as a rookie, catching all four of his targets for 39 yards. The 25-year-old slot receiver has an opportunity to earn a significant role between Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, though Jordan Taylor and Laquon Treadwellare also in the mix. Minnesota's run-first offense figures to significantly cap the fantasy value of whomever looks down the gig.
30. Breshad Perriman, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians is back in the league and figures to continue to deploy a wide receiver-friendly offense. During his six seasons in Arizona, the Cardinals ranked sixth in the league in three-plus wide receiver sets (75%) and second in four-wide sets (20%). For perspective, the league average for four-wide sets was 3% last season. Though these numbers are potential good news for depth receivers Perriman, Justin Watson and Scott Miller, that's not a particularly impressive group and Arians will be hunting for ways to keep tight ends O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate involved.
31. Jarius Wright, Carolina Panthers
Carolina operated its pass-heaviest offense during the Cam Newton era last season, which led to a third wide receiver seeing the field on 85% of its pass plays. That was third highest in the NFL. Wright quietly caught 43 passes for 447 yards last season while focusing his time on the short area (6.0 aDOT was second-lowest at the position and his 74% catch rate was sixth best). His role -- as well as the presence of Christian McCaffrey, DJ Moore, Curtis Samuel and Greg Olsen -- severely limits his fantasy appeal, though it's fair to say he's among the deepest of sleepers in oversized PPR leagues.
32. Cody Latimer, New York Giants
Latimer ranked out in this exact spot one season ago. Little has changed as the veteran receiver will compete with the likes of Corey Coleman and rookie Darius Slayton for No. 3 duties behind Golden Tate and Sterling Shepard. The Giants had a third receiver on the field for 72% of its pass plays last season, which ranked 22nd. Barring a major surge from field-stretcher Slayton, this group is safe to ignore.
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Kenny Golladay. Calvin Ridley. Cooper Kupp. Keke Coutee. Christian Kirk. DJ Moore. Adam Humphries. Albert Wilson. Anthony Miller. Courtland Sutton. DaeSean Hamilton. Mike Williams. Robert Foster. Willie Snead. David Moore.
Each and every year there is a lengthy list of wide receivers who were in the fantasy spotlight the prior season despite entering Week 1 third or lower on their respective teams' depth charts.
Fantasy football leagues aren't won during the first few rounds of your draft. Players will often underwhelm and/or go down with injuries. For this reason, it's important to become familiar not only with superstars, but also with role players and emerging youngsters who could find themselves on the fantasy radar during the 2019 season.
With that in mind, I have ranked the current No. 3 wide receivers for each NFL team in terms of expected 2019 fantasy production -- not strictly on skill. As you'll see in the explanations, scheme, playing-time security and supporting cast are among the other variables in play.
Some of these players are worth your attention on draft day, while others are names to scoop up in dynasty leagues or file away for later.
Note: Mentions of three-plus wide receiver sets throughout this article refer only to pass plays.
1. Cooper Kupp, Los Angeles Rams
If there's one thing we know about Sean McVay, it's that he loves the '11' personnel package (one running back, one tight end, three wide receivers). In fact, during five NFL seasons as an offensive coordinator or head coach, McVay has been in '11' on 2,501 (or 84.3%) of 2,964 pass plays. McVay ran more pass plays in '11' during the 2018 regular season (575) than he has in every other package combined in his career (463). With three or more receivers on the field a league-high 97% of the time last season, Kupp, Brandin Cooks and Robert Woods were all full-time players when healthy. All three were Top 11 in fantasy points among wide receivers and should be considered Top 20 options in 2019.
2. Keke Coutee, Houston Texans
The Texans have ranked 18th, 10th, 19th, 25th and, most recently, dead last in three-plus wide receiver sets during Bill O'Brien's five seasons as head coach. That may seem damning, but Coutee -- Houston's 2018 fourth-round pick -- made a sizable impact when healthy during his rookie campaign. During the five games he played in full, Coutee averaged a ridiculous 10.0 targets per game, actually out-targeting DeAndre Hopkins 50 to 47. The undersized slot receiver figures to force O'Brien and company into more '11' sets, assuming both Hopkins and Will Fuller V are also healthy. Coutee is an intriguing breakout candidate and terrific late-round pick in fantasy drafts.
3. James Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers had a new offensive coordinator in Randy Fichtner last season, but that didn't change the team's heavy reliance on three-wide sets. Pittsburgh had three or more receivers on the field for 87% of its pass plays (second highest) and four or more on the field for 13% of plays (highest). Antonio Brown is gone, but the Steelers still have plenty of mouths to feed at wide receiver. That includes 2018 second-round pick Washington, who figures to open his second season behind JuJu Smith-Schuster and Donte' Moncrief. Washington struggled to 16 catches in 14 games as a rookie, but he'll have a tremendous opportunity for a breakout in Pittsburgh's high-scoring and receiver-friendly offense.
4. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Green Bay Packers
The Packers have finished no lower than eighth in three-plus wide receivers each of the past 12 seasons. It's possible that changes with Matt LaFleur replaced Mike McCarthy as head coach, though LaFleur is a branch of the aforementioned three-wide-happy McVay coaching tree. Valdes-Scantling is competing with Geronimo Allison for No. 2 duties, but Green Bay's probable personnel deployment suggests both will be very busy regardless of that outcome. Both players are terrific late-round picks in Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers-led offense.
5. DaeSean Hamilton, Denver Broncos
It's unclear how often new Denver OC Rich Scangarello will rely on three-wide sets, but his extensive background working under Kyle Shanahan (more on him later) suggests it won't be often. Add first-round rookie TE Noah Fant to the mix and Hamilton certainly could be limited a bit if he falls clearly behind Emmanuel Sanders and Courtland Sutton on the depth chart. Of course, Hamilton gets a bump here as he could get some early run as the team's No. 2 wide receiver while Sanders recovers from a torn Achilles. His weak rookie-season efficiency is a concern (5.4 YPT), but Hamilton's situation suggests he's well worth a late-round pick.
6. Jamison Crowder, New York Jets
New coach Adam Gase has always been heavy on three-plus wide sets and that doesn't figure to change in New York. Gase has been a head coach or OC each of the past six seasons and his units have ranked third, fifth, 10th, fourth, second and fifth in the category. That's good news for offseason addition Crowder, who will work the slot between Robby Anderson and Quincy Enunwa. Injuries limited Crowder last season, but he was a Top 33 fantasy receiver each of the previous two seasons. He's a sneaky late target in PPR.
7. Mecole Hardman, Kansas City Chiefs
Coach Andy Reid loves to throw the football, but that simply hasn't led to much reliance on three-plus wide sets. Kansas City has ranked 30th, 27th, 30th, 30th and, most recently, 29th in the category over the past five seasons. The key for Hardman will be the status of Tyreek Hill. If Hill is suspended, Hardman's top competition for snaps will be the likes of Demarcus Robinson, Byron Pringleand Gehrig Dieter behind Sammy Watkins. That would push him onto the flex radar. If Hill is a go, Hardman figures to operate as no more than a situational player. For now, Hardman is well worth a late pick.
8. Anthony Miller, Chicago Bears
Coach Matt Nagy comes from the Andy Reid coaching tree, so it's hardly a surprise that the Bears ranked 27th in the NFL in three-plus wide receiver sets in his first season as head coach. That was costly for Miller, who found his way to seven touchdowns, but ranked 69th at the position in routes and 76th in targets as a rookie. It's certainly possible Miller overtakes Taylor Gabriel as the team's No. 2 this season, but the veteran was well ahead in every category last season. Playing time could elude him in this offense, but Miller's potential Year 2 leap makes him a fine late round flier.
9. Parris Campbell, Indianapolis Colts
The Colts ranked 20th in the NFL in three-plus wide receiver sets (74%) in Frank Reich's first season as the head coach. And that was with Jack Doylemissing most of the season. The Colts upgraded wide receiver with Devin Funchess and Campbell during the offseason, but Eric Ebron, Mo Alie-Cox and Doyle will all be factors at tight end. Campbell figures to be deployed as a rusher, slot receiver and returner (think Randall Cobb) and, though volume could elude him early on, there's upside here in a shaky wide receiver room in one of the league's top pass offenses. Campbell belongs on benches.
10. Albert Wilson, Miami Dolphins
New Dolphins coach Brian Flores and OC Chad O'Shea defected from the Patriots - a team that hasn't ranked above average in three-plus receiver sets since 2009. It's obviously no lock they follow suit, but notable nonetheless as we consider possible contributions from DeVante Parker, Kenny Stills, Wilson, Jakeem Grant and Preston Williams. Wilson was fantasy's No. 25 scoring wideout prior to suffering a hip injury last season and is positioned for a big opportunity on a seemingly wide open Dolphins' depth chart. He's a sneaky late-round pick.
11. Mohamed Sanu, Atlanta Falcons
Dirk Koetter is back as the Falcons' OC following a brief stint as the Buccaneers' head coach. Atlanta came in above average in three-plus wide receiver sets during each of Koetter's previous three seasons with the team (2012-14). Meanwhile, Tampa Bay ranked eighth in the category (82%) under Koetter last season. Sanu actually worked ahead of Calvin Ridley last season, but the latter is in line for a promotion in his second season, whereas Sanu was on the trade block earlier this offseason. There's still room for Sanu to push for flex numbers in this high-scoring, pass-heavy offense, but Sanu lacks a high ceiling. He's more valuable in deeper leagues.
12. DJ Chark, Jacksonville Jaguars
At 83%, the Jaguars ranked sixth in three-plus wide receiver sets last season. The team has a new OC in John DeFilippo, though note that Minnesota ranked 12th in the category at 80% during his time as the team's OC last season. That bodes well for Chark, who was selected in the second round of the 2018 draft. The second-year wideout will compete with the likes of Marqise Lee (PUP candidate), Dede Westbrook and Chris Conley for snaps and targets. Chark could prove to be a steal considering he's all but free in most 2019 fantasy drafts.
13. Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
The 49ers have ranked 28th and 31st in three-plus wide receiver sets during Kyle Shanahan's two seasons with the team. That's been a theme for Shanahan's offenses, which have been below average in the category during nine of his 11 seasons as a head coach or OC. That may not bode well for Samuel, especially considering he's already battling a groin injury. The rookie is competing with Dante Pettis, Marquise Goodwin, Jalen Hurd and Trent Taylor (among others) for snaps and targets. Shanahan's offense will make it tough for more than two receivers to push for fantasy relevance. Samuel is a better flier in deep and dynasty leagues.
14. Andy Isabella, Arizona Cardinals
Kliff Kingsbury is new to the NFL coaching world, but the expectation is that Arizona will rank near the top of the league in both three and four-wide sets. That would mean plenty of playing time for Isabella and fellow rookie Hakeem Butler behind Larry Fitzgerald and Christian Kirk. Isabella is on the small side, but versatile enough to play inside and out and fast enough (4.31 40 yard dash) to stretch the field. The reigning FBS receiving yardage leader should be on your radar in the late rounds.
15. Tre'Quan Smith, New Orleans Saints
The Saints have finished outside the top 20 in three-plus wide sets each of the past six seasons. That includes a 65% rate that ranked 28th in the league in 2018. With Michael Thomas and Ted Ginn Jr. in the fold, this means Smith may have trouble finding the field enough to push for flex value this season. The 2018 third-round pick flashed as a rookie, but unless he unseats 33-year-old Ginn, he's no more than an end-of-bench stash.
16. A.J. Brown, Tennessee Titans
Tennessee was extremely run heavy and ranked 26th in the league in three-plus wide receiver sets (70%) in Mike Vrabel's first season as head coach. The Titans upgraded at wide receiver with Adam Humphries and second-round pick Brown, but they'll also get back Delanie Walker from injury, so we shouldn't expect a major change in philosophy. Brown has good size and is a terrific all-around prospect, but his career figures to begin slowly. The 2019 second-round pick is only worth a late pick in 12-team formats.
17. Randall Cobb, Dallas Cowboys
Dallas had three or more receivers on the field for 83% of its pass plays last season (fourth highest) and has ranked well below average in the category each of the past three seasons. That bodes well for newcomer Cobb, who will slide in as Cole Beasley's replacement in the slot behind Amari Cooper and Michael Gallup. Dallas' low-volume, run-first offense limits Cobb's upside, however. The former Packer hasn't cracked the Top 30 at wide receiver since 2015, but could flirt with flex numbers in deep PPR formats.
18. Robert Foster, Buffalo Bills
Believe it or not, the run-heavy, defensive-minded Bills ranked 10th in three-plus wide receiver sets last season (80%). The team made wholesale offensive changes during the offseason, but the additions of John Brown and Beasley suggests they'll continue to roll out plenty of '11' sets. It's unknown how the Bills will deploy the four wide receivers atop the depth chart, but the team's 2018 personnel usage suggests Brown, Beasley, Foster and Zay Jones could all be factors. Of course, Buffalo will still run often and Josh Allen's accuracy remains a major concern, so there's little reason to invest much in this group.
19. David Moore, Seattle Seahawks
Despite OC Brian Schottenheimer calling one of the league's run-heaviest offenses last season, the Seahawks had three or more wide receivers on the field for 80% of their pass plays, which was the league's 11th-highest rate. That's especially notable following the retirement of Doug Baldwin. Moore, who is entering his third NFL season after posting a 26-445-5 line in 2018, will compete with rookies D.K. Metcalf and Gary Jennings, as well as Jaron Brownfor a spot in Seattle's "Top 3". The former seventh-round pick is a longshot for consistent fantasy production in the Seahawks' run-first scheme.
20. Nelson Agholor, Philadelphia Eagles
Offensive-minded Eagles head coach Doug Pederson has ranked below average in three-plus wide receiver sets throughout his career as a coach and coordinator. That includes a 58% rate in 2018, which was third-lowest in the league. Agholor ranked seventh in the league in pass routes last season, but was only 30th in targets. His workload only figures to decrease with DeSean Jacksonand JJ Arcega-Whiteside in the fold and with impressive TE Dallas Goedertentering his second season.
21. Antonio Callaway, Cleveland Browns
Cleveland's offense will look a bit different this season with Freddie Kitchens promoted to head coach and Todd Monken hired as OC. Cleveland ranked just below league average in three-wide sets during Kitchens' eight games as OC last season. The Buccaneers were all over the place in terms of three-plus wide sets during Monken's time in Tampa Bay, though the Buccaneers did rank eighth in the category last season. Callaway is the favorite over Rashard Higgins to win No. 3 duties behind target hogs Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry. Callaway's vertical ability could lead him to the occasional big week, but consistent targets will be tough to find in this offense.
22. Travis Benjamin, Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers increased their usage of three-plus wide receiver sets from 71% in 2017 (Anthony Lynn's first season as head coach) to 78% last season. The change was predictable with Hunter Henry out and with Mike Williams in his second season. Of course, with Henry back and Tyrell Williams gone, it's possible the number regresses in 2019. Benjamin is a noteworthy deep sleeper, but keep in mind that the 29 year old has one Top 45 fantasy campaign to his name and that was back in 2015.
23. Danny Amendola, Detroit Lions
The Lions ranked 12th in three-plus (80%) and third in four-plus (8%) wide receiver sets last season. New OC Darrell Bevell's last five offenses have ranked above average in the category. That suggests we should expect the Lions to be above average in 2019, but it may not be by much after T.J. Hockenson and Jesse James were added to the tight end room. Golden Tate had plenty of fantasy success as Matthew Stafford's slot receiver, but Amendola turns 34 years old this season, doesn't figure to see near as much volume as Tate and hasn't posted a Top 40 fantasy season since 2010. He's only worth a look in super deep PPR leagues.
24. Trey Quinn, Washington Redskins
Starting with 2014, the Redskins have ranked seventh, fifth, eighth, 13th and 15th in three-plus wide sets during Jay Gruden's five seasons as head coach. Though Gruden has progressively relied on heavier sets, injuries and underperformance have been rampant at the wide receiver position. With Paul Richardson healthy, Josh Doctson in the mix and Terry McLaurin drafted, Washington could move back into the Top 10 in 2019. That'd be good news for Quinn, who caught all but one of his 10 targets for 75 yards and a score in three rookie-season affairs. Last season's Mr. Irrelevant is a deep sleeper.
25. John Ross, Cincinnati Bengals
New HC Zac Taylor was extremely heavy on three-plus wide receiver sets during a brief stint as the Dolphins' OC back in 2015 (79%) before spending the past two seasons as an assistant to three-wide-heavy Sean McVay. That adds some promise to Ross' outlook, though the third-year receiver's horrific efficiency is a major red flag. Ross somehow scored seven touchdowns in 2018, but his 3.6 yards per target and 36% catch rate were both dead last at the position. Ross' world class speed is all that keeps him in the late-round discussion in deep leagues.
26. Hunter Renfrow, Oakland Raiders
Despite a very shaky group of wide receivers, the Raiders ranked 18th in three-plus wide receiver sets last season (76%). In coach Jon Gruden and OC Greg Olson's second season with the team, we should expect that number to rise (perhaps significantly) with Antonio Brown, Tyrell Williams, J.J. Nelson, Ryan Grant and Renfrow added to the fold. Renfrow was selected by Oakland in the fifth round of April's draft. The 5-foot-10, 184-pound Clemson product has a path to a significant rookie season role with the team's slot gig up for grabs between Brown and Williams. Renfrow is an underrated dynasty hold and could sneak into value in deep PPR leagues in 2019.
27. Chris Moore, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have ranked no higher than 25th in three-plus wide receiver sets over the past five seasons. A majority of that came with Joe Flacco under center, though Baltimore ranked 26th (65%) in the category during Jackson's seven regular season starts last season. Moore very well could open the season higher on the depth chart, but third in line is a safe estimate with first-round pick Marquise Brown and slot Willie Snead in the fold. Moore -- a 2016 fourth-round pick -- may truly get an opportunity to break out this season, but Baltimore's run-heavy attack figures to cap the fantasy appeal of most of the team's pass catchers.
28. Phillip Dorsett, New England Patriots
The Patriots had a third wide receiver on the field for 69% of pass plays last season, which ranked 26th in the league. The Patriots have ranked below average in the category each of the past nine seasons with an average rate of 53% (second lowest) during the span. Despite New England's underwhelming wide receiver room last season. Dorsett was limited to a 32-290-3 line in 16 games. He's unlikely to work his way into the fantasy discussion, even if he surprisingly fends off rookie N'Keal Harry for No. 2 duties.
29. Chad Beebe, Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have ranked right around league average in three-plus wide sets during each of Mike Zimmer's five seasons as the team's head coach. That includes 13th (79%) last season. Beebe, who went undrafted last year, made a brief appearance as a rookie, catching all four of his targets for 39 yards. The 25-year-old slot receiver has an opportunity to earn a significant role between Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, though Jordan Taylor and Laquon Treadwellare also in the mix. Minnesota's run-first offense figures to significantly cap the fantasy value of whomever looks down the gig.
30. Breshad Perriman, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
New Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians is back in the league and figures to continue to deploy a wide receiver-friendly offense. During his six seasons in Arizona, the Cardinals ranked sixth in the league in three-plus wide receiver sets (75%) and second in four-wide sets (20%). For perspective, the league average for four-wide sets was 3% last season. Though these numbers are potential good news for depth receivers Perriman, Justin Watson and Scott Miller, that's not a particularly impressive group and Arians will be hunting for ways to keep tight ends O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate involved.
31. Jarius Wright, Carolina Panthers
Carolina operated its pass-heaviest offense during the Cam Newton era last season, which led to a third wide receiver seeing the field on 85% of its pass plays. That was third highest in the NFL. Wright quietly caught 43 passes for 447 yards last season while focusing his time on the short area (6.0 aDOT was second-lowest at the position and his 74% catch rate was sixth best). His role -- as well as the presence of Christian McCaffrey, DJ Moore, Curtis Samuel and Greg Olsen -- severely limits his fantasy appeal, though it's fair to say he's among the deepest of sleepers in oversized PPR leagues.
32. Cody Latimer, New York Giants
Latimer ranked out in this exact spot one season ago. Little has changed as the veteran receiver will compete with the likes of Corey Coleman and rookie Darius Slayton for No. 3 duties behind Golden Tate and Sterling Shepard. The Giants had a third receiver on the field for 72% of its pass plays last season, which ranked 22nd. Barring a major surge from field-stretcher Slayton, this group is safe to ignore.
