2018 Rookie WRs Worth Drafting
Over the years, there have not been many fantasy relevant rookie WRs. Over the past three years, only five WRs have finished top 25 at the position. Of those five receivers, only one of them was taken in the first round of the NFL draft. In order to pick out the best rookie WRs, it takes a little more research and intuition than just who will have the opportunity to play. With wide receivers, the key is to find a WR with opportunity for targets with a good offense and good QB play. Here are the most likely Rookie WRs to succeed this season:
J’Mon Moore:
Round of NFL Draft Taken: 4th
Team: Green Bay Packers
Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers
With Jordy Nelson gone from Green Bay, there is now an open competition for the 3rd WR spot. With Rodgers at QB, there is definitely potential for him to make any target into a reliable fantasy player. J’Mon Moore is one of three rookie WRs on the Packers this year, but he has already received rave reviews from spring practices and training camp. His 6’3” 207 lb frame could be the ideal target for Rodgers to throw jump balls to. While his floor is still incredibly low, he is being undrafted in most leagues and could be a steal if you pick him up off the waiver wire or stash him on the bench.
Deon Cain:
Round of NFL Draft Taken: 6th
Team: Indianapolis Colts
Quarterback: Andrew Luck
Cain has been fantastic for the Colts so far in training camp. Every report that comes out states that he has quickly become a contender for the Colts WR2 spot. His value and his potential will be directly tied to the recovery and success of Andrew Luck. With a healthy Luck, the Colts offense can easily produce two fantasy WRs. As long as Cain can continue to impress coaches, look for him to have a good rookie season. He will provide a great return on investment for anyone who snags him from the waiver wire.
James Washington:
Round of NFL Draft Taken: 2nd
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Quarterback: Ben Roethlisberger
There is almost nobody better at drafting and grooming young WRs than the Steelers. Big Ben loves to throw the ball deep and Washington made a name for himself in college getting open down the field. Those two factors are a winning combination in the making. Steelers have also been known to give rookie WRs playing time if they are deemed to be worth it. With Martavis Bryant gone, the WR3 spot is wide open. This kid could be the next Steelers great WR and don’t be surprised if he gets significant snaps early in his career.