As draft day approaches, fantasy football managers are all searching for that diamond in the rough who could catapult them to a championship.
While there are many different interpretations of what constitutes a ‘sleeper,’ we’re looking at players who might have unreasonably low expectations coming into the season or who may find themselves one step away from taking on a much larger role.
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Here are some of the season’s top fantasy football sleepers who could dramatically outperform their average draft positions (ADPs from all August drafts, courtesy of NFFC) and why they could be an asset to your team:
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QUARTERBACK
Will Levis, Tennessee Titans (ADP: 169, QB 23): He has top-tier arm talent plus upgraded weaponry, better protection and a QB-minded system. Look for him to shine in Year 2.
RUNNING BACK
Jaylen Wright, Miami Dolphins (ADP: 141, RB 44): He has the one quality the Dolphins prioritize in their offensive system: Blazing speed. Situated behind a pair of teammates with durability concerns, Wright could potentially turn into a three-down back.
WIDE RECEIVER
Curtis Samuel, Buffalo Bills (ADP: 125, WR 54): Enters the season with a new team and a prime opportunity to finally live up to his potential. With Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis no longer around, Samuel should rack up WR3 PPR volume.
TIGHT END
Pat Freiermuth, Pittsburgh Steelers (ADP: 133, TE 13): He gets a QB upgrade (no matter who starts), and there’s limited target-stealing competition in the Steelers’ TE-friendly system.
KICKER
Jake Bates, Lions: Major leg talent who gets a chance to kick for a prolific offense after Michael Badgley’s season-ending hamstring injury.
DEFENSE/SPECIAL TEAMS
Atlanta Falcons (D/ST 27): The front office addressed key personnel deficiencies in the offseason. They should make strides vs. stellar closing schedule.
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