Eye on the Targets: Michael Crabtree Profile

Among the wide receivers that have changed teams this offseason, Michael Crabtree is one of the most intriguing fantasy options. Ravens QB Joe Flacco had high praise for Crabtree, labelling him as “the guy” within the Ravens passing attack and noting his crisp route-running ability as the reason he is able to get open with such consistency. The Ravens have been notorious for bringing in veteran WRs to lead their position group, which bodes well for Crabtree returning to the same form he showed in his first two seasons with the Raiders.

There will also be more consistent play coming from the QB position this season in Baltimore. With recent first round pick Lamar Jackson right on his heels, expect Flacco to play at a higher level and with a sense of urgency. The additions of supporting wideouts Willie Snead and John Brown, and rookie first round pick TE Hayden Hurst will take some of the pressure off of Crabtree from opposing defenses.

Crabtree has already proven he can be a top 20 wideout in past years, and there is no reason to think this change of scenery would prevent him from getting to that production level again. According to PFF, Crabtree is one of three WRs to average 10+ PPR points per game every year since 2009. Our experts currently have him ranked as the 26th overall WR, but he will surely exceed all expectations if Flacco relies on him as much as he did Steve Smith Sr. back in 2014, when Smith finished as a top 20 fantasy option. Don’t be afraid to rely on Crabtree as a solid WR2 or high end flex option week in and week out in 2018.

Graphic courtesy of Pro Football Focus

Edited By Jeff Lorenz