There’s no better place to prepare for a fantasy football draft than player rankings. And there’s no better place to go for fantasy rankings than ours here at PFF Fantasy.
Director of PFF Fantasy Jeff Ratcliffe has regularly been one of the industry’s most accurate rankers. Below are his top 100 rankings for the 2016 season, as of Wednesday morning. Along with each name is a link to the full fantasy depth chart look of that player’s team, and links to relevant stories about that player or that player’s situation on PFF Fantasy.
(Updated August 31)
1. Antonio Brown, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
In just about any format, Brown is an easy No. 1. He's been the No. 1 wide receiver each of the last two seasons.
Relevant links:
- Brown was also No. 1 in our midseason Fantasy 101.
- Pat Thorman wonders if the Steelers’ offense might start a little slowly.
2. David Johnson, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Since Le'Veon Bell's suspension, Johnson has become PFF's No. 1 running back.
Relevant links:
- Johnson is one of Cris Collinsworth's favorite fantasy picks of the year.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says not to worry about Chris Johnson in the Arizona backfield.
- Pat Thorman isn’t buying the Chris Johnson threat, either.
3. Todd Gurley, RB, Los Angeles Rams
Gurley is good. The rest of the Rams? Not so much. So he'll get heavy usage.
Relevant links:
- Gurley’s lack of pass-catching prowess will keep him from being No. 1 in fantasy, says Pat Thorman.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Gurley is a good running back, but not the RB1.
4. Adrian Peterson, RB, Minnesota Vikings
As long as Peterson is around in Minnesota, he'll be the focus of that offense. That's even more true in the wake of the Teddy Bridgewater injury.
Relevant links:
- Nathan Jahnke includes Peterson on his must-avoid list.
- Jeff Ratcliffe explains why Peterson is no longer the top running back.
- Meanwhile, Dan Schneier wonders if there’s still a case for Peterson as RB1.
5. Julio Jones, WR, Atlanta Falcons
Take out his injury-ravaged 2013, and Jones has gotten better every year of his career.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier wonders if Mohamed Sanu can prove to be a competent running mate for Jones.
6. Lamar Miller, RB, Houston Texans
Miller finished as the RB6 in 2015 despite fewer than 200 carries. That number should shoot up in 2016 with Houston.
Relevant links:
- Mike Castiglione named Miller’s signing as the single best offseason move for fantasy.
7. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys surprised by taking Elliott at fourth overall in the draft, but it certainly gave him plenty of fantasy potential.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Elliott showed why he's a first-rounder in his first preseason game.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Elliott will be the lowest-scoring first-rounder this year.
- Ratcliffe says not to panic about Elliott's hamstring injury.
8. Jamaal Charles, RB, Kansas City Chiefs
At almost 30 and coming off his second ACL tear, we might not have many more years of Charles left, but until he shows he can't do it, it's wise to believe he can.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere makes the bold call that Charles is not a top-10 running back.
- Brandon Marianne Lee challenges the conventional wisdom around Charles’ ACL recovery.
- Daniel Kelley says Spencer Ware is the right handcuff for Charles, not Charcandrick West.
9. Devonta Freeman, RB, Atlanta Falcons
Freeman had an out-of-nowhere 2015, and should be the team's bell cow in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Freeman won't lose much work to Tevin Coleman.
- Freeman is one of Jeff Ratcliffe's must-draft players.
- Tyler Loechner thinks the worry for Freeman has gone too far.
10. Odell Beckham Jr., WR, New York Giants
Beckham has had maybe the best first two seasons ever, and there's not much reason to expect him to slow down now.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks Sterling Shepard could make for a breakout candidate, which could divert attention from Beckham.
11. LeSean McCoy, RB, Buffalo Bills
On a per-game basis, McCoy had a better 2015 than 2014. If he can stay healthy, he's still a stud.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere pits McCoy against Eddie Lacy, and says McCoy comes out on top.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says not to worry about Reggie Bush stealing McCoy's work.
12. Mark Ingram, RB, New Orleans Saints
Ingram was on the road to bust status before 2014, but now he's had back-to-back productive seasons and is his team's unquestioned No. 1 back.
Relevant links:
- Scott Barrett is a big believer in Ingram for 2016.
- Pat Thorman thinks Ingram will have fine end-of-season numbers, but his weekly production could be unpredictable.
- Jeff Ratcliffe explains why Ingram should offer big value.
13. Le’Veon Bell, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Bell was PFF's No. 1 fantasy running back, contending for No. 1 overall, before his four-game suspension was announced. It has since been reduced to three.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee says 100 percent of Bell drafters need to also get DeAngelo Williams.
- The suspension is what has Bell this low, and he’s unlikely to win an appeal, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Even with the suspension, though, Ratcliffe likes Bell as a No. 1 RB.
14. Doug Martin, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Martin had a big return to form in 2015, evoking memories of his 2012. If that's the Martin that we get in 2016, he's a fantasy powerhouse.
Relevant links:
- Daniel Kelley points out that Martin led all RBs in forced missed tackles in 2015.
15. Eddie Lacy, RB, Green Bay Packers
Lacy's struggles were overstated in 2015 — he still averaged 4.1 yards per carry. If his conditioning improves, he can jump back up the rankings.
Relevant links:
- Lacy could be the RB1 this year, says Mike Tagliere in his bold predictions.
- Jeff Ratcliffe wonders about Lacy’s chances for a rebound season.
- Dan Schneier says we’ll get a good picture of Lacy’s 2016 value in training camp.
16. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Houston Texans
Hopkins was the only worthwhile fantasy player in Houston last year, but the team has surrounded him with extra options this year.
Relevant links:
- Daniel Kelley thinks Hopkins' quarterback will keep him from being a top-10 receiver.
- Cris Collinsworth thinks Hopkins will continue his strong ways.
- Jeff Ratcliffe explains why Hopkins is so special.
17. A.J. Green, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
With Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu gone from Cincinnati and Tyler Eifert banged up, Green could be in line to upgrade on his already-elite performance.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere would go Green over the higher-drafted Hopkins in drafts.
18. Dez Bryant, WR, Dallas Cowboys
Last year was a lost season for Bryant and the whole Cowboys team, but odds are with him rebounding, even with Tony Romo missing a chunk of the season.
Relevant links:
- The Tony Romo injury dings Bryant, but not much, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Jeff Ratcliffe wonders if Bryant has somehow become underrated.
19. Carlos Hyde, RB, San Francisco 49ers
Hyde had 182 yards from scrimmage and two scores in Week 1. He played only six more games, with 341 yards and one more touchdown. Under Chip Kelly, though, Hyde could have a big year.
Relevant links:
- If you're deciding between Hyde and C.J. Anderson, Mike Tagliere says Hyde is the right play.
- A healthy Hyde in a Chip Kelly offense could see 300 carries, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Dan Schneier says Hyde is playing in one of the worst situations for running backs.
20. Alshon Jeffery, WR, Chicago Bears
Injuries continue to be Jeffery's sticking point, as he played only nine games in 2015 and wasn't 100 percent for those. If he can stay healthy, he's a stud, but that's a big “if.”
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere says Jeffery is a better option than Keenan Allen.
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks Kevin White’s upside is a WR3, or even higher, making him and Jeffery a strong combination.
21. Brandon Marshall, WR, New York Jets
Marshall had a big rebound in New York after a rough 2014. With Ryan Fitzpatrick re-signed, the sky's the limit for the 32-year-old.
Relevant links:
- Marshall isn't likely to equal or even approach his 2015, says Nathan Jahnke.
- Considering his age, Marshall is probably being overvalued, says Tyler Loechner.
- Mike Tagliere on why he prefers Marshall to Brandin Cooks this year.
22. C.J. Anderson, RB, Denver Broncos
Anderson disappointed for much of 2015 before coming on late in the year. He'll start 2016 as the Denver No. 1, but he'll need to hold off Devontae Booker.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere quells a reader's concerns on Anderson.
- Jeff Ratcliffe also says Devontae Booker could cut into Anderson’s usage.
- Anderson might have gone too high a year ago, but he’s going too low now, says Scott Barrett.
23. Matt Forte, RB, New York Jets
The years are adding up for Forte, and he's on a new roster now. With Bilal Powell and Khiry Robinson battling for touches, his fantasy stock could come down to workload.
Relevant links:
- With Bilal Powell around, Jeff Ratcliffe cautions against overvaluing Forte this season.
- There are more mouths to feed in the backfield than Forte is used to, Ratcliffe says.
- Dan Schneier says Forte is joining a bad situation for a running back.
24. Allen Robinson, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Robinson tied for the league lead in receiving touchdowns last year, leading a surprisingly potent Jaguars passing offense.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee says maybe the Jaguars aren’t such a sure thing for regression.
- On the other hand, Jeff Ratcliffe says Robinson is very unlikely to repeat his strong 2015.
25. Rob Gronkowski, TE, New England Patriots
Starting with his 2010 rookie season, Gronkowski's year-by-year fantasy finish among tight ends: 5-1-2-2-1-1.
Relevant links:
- It will be interesting if Gronkowski and Martellus Bennett can form a strong 1-2 punch, says Dan Schneier.
26. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers
Stewart has averaged barely 10 games a year since 2011 and enters camp banged up. When healthy though, his 2015 showed how productive he can be.
Relevant links:
- Fantasy players who draft Stewart should make sure they also get Cameron Artis-Payne, says Brandon Marianne Lee.
- Stewart’s value goes down in PPR formats, says Dan Schneier.
27. Mike Evans, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Evans actually put up more yards in 2015 than he did as a rookie in 2014, but his touchdown total going from 12 to three really depressed his fantasy value. He continues to be Tampa Bay's No. 1.
Relevant links:
- Even with the Tony Romo injury, Jeff Ratcliffe would take Dez Bryant over Evans.
- Mike Tagliere likes Evans over a guy going near him in drafts, Amari Cooper.
- Ratcliffe says Evans has the potential to be a top-five receiver.
28. Sammy Watkins, WR, Buffalo Bills
Watkins continues to be a one-man army in the Bills' receiving corps. He's got all the talent in the world.
Relevant links:
- Definitely target Watkins this year, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- In her bold predictions, Brandon Marianne Lee forecasts a top-five finish for Watkins.
- Watkins outperformed his teammates by more than anyone else last year, notes Daniel Kelley.
29. Jordy Nelson, WR, Green Bay Packers
Nelson's fortunes will likely come down to his recovery from a 2015 ACL tear. If he's back, his production should be too.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Nelson needs to get healthy soon or his draft stock will shoot downward.
- Mike Tagliere says Nelson’s return should boost the whole Green Bay offense.
30. Latavius Murray, RB, Oakland Raiders
Murray's production was largely workload-based in 2015, but he should at least start 2016 with a similar load. If he produces, it'll continue.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says things are suddenly looking somewhat up for Murray.
- The threat of DeAndre Washington means Murray is going too early in drafts, says Tyler Loechner.
- Murray could see his stock drop if Washington has a strong camp, says Dan Schneier.
31. Ryan Mathews, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Injuries are always going to tell the story of Mathews, but he enters the season as the sure-fire No. 1 back in Philadelphia.
Relevant links:
- Mathews started camp banged up, which could open the door for Wendell Smallwood, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- If he’s healthy, Mathews is a fine RB2, says Ratcliffe.
- Dan Schneier wants to watch camp to make sure Mathews will really have the starting gig to himself.
32. Thomas Rawls, RB, Seattle Seahawks
Rawls had a great rookie season until it was derailed by injury. If he can get healthy, he should get the chance to repeat.
Relevant links:
- Cris Collinsworth likes Rawls to have a strong sophomore NFL season.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Rawls needs to practice before fantasy players can fully buy back in.
- Dan Schneier wonders if C.J. Prosise or Alex Collins might overtake Rawls if he doesn’t heal quickly.
33. Brandin Cooks, WR, New Orleans Saints
Cooks more than doubled his yardage total from 2014 to 2015. He won't do that again, of course, but his career is definitely trending upward.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe pegs Cooks as a near-WR1 candidate this year.
- Mike Tagliere says Cooks carries a very high weekly ceiling.
34. Jarvis Landry, WR, Miami Dolphins
Landry is a volume-dependent receiver. With Arian Foster, Leonte Carroo, Kenyan Drake, Kenny Stills and DeVante Parker all there and improving, the volume might have a cap, but it won't go away.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere cautions against relying too much on Landry having big single-week numbers.
- Tagliere also says Landry carries pretty significant risk in fantasy.
35. LeGarrette Blount, RB, New England Patriots
Blount was on place to get close to 1,000 yards in 2015 before his injury, despite individual games of 4 and -3 yards. He's boom-or-bust, but his big games can be really big. And with Dion Lewis now hurt, Blount's stock is on the rise.
Relevant links:
- Blount's value spiked in the wake of the Dion Lewis injury, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Pat Thorman argues that the fantasy community is underrating Blount.
36. Melvin Gordon, RB, San Diego Chargers
Gordon had far and away the most touches without a score across the whole league last year. If he can find the end zone, his stock will rise quickly.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier says Gordon is just right for post-hype sleeper status.
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks Gordon is an easy choice for post-hype sleeper status.
37. Keenan Allen, WR, San Diego Chargers
Allen was on his way to a prolific 2015 before a midseason injury. While the volume might not be quite as high in 2016, he still has elite upside.
Relevant links:
- The integration of Travis Benjamin into the San Diego offense will really influence Allen’s season, says Dan Schneier.
38. Amari Cooper, WR, Oakland Raiders
Cooper promises to be the focal point of a potentially ascending Raiders offense in his second season.
Relevant links:
- News that Cooper played injured last year only boosts the hopes for him in 2016, says Dan Schneier.
- Cooper was already good last year, but Tyler Loechner says corralling his drops could make him elite.
- Daniel Kelley cautions against expecting the Raiders to equal their 2015 numbers.
39. Rashad Jennings, RB, New York Giants
Last year was the first in Jennings' career in which he played all 16 games. If he can do that again, he could return big value.
Relevant links:
- Cris Collinsworth is buying Jennings as a fantasy option.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Jennings is clearly the Giants' No. 1.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Jennings will at least be a fantasy value early on in the season.
40. Matt Jones, RB, Washington Redskins
Jones struggled as a rookie, but Washington didn't add anyone who will definitely steal touches from him. He's going to get every opportunity, provided his preseason injury heals.
Relevant links:
- After a disappointing rookie year, Jones could offer sneaky value, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Jones fared poorly in most PFF metrics in 2015, says Daniel Kelley.
- Dan Schneier isn’t interested in Jones at the price he commands.
41. Jeremy Langford, RB, Chicago Bears
Langford will start the season as the Bears' No. 1 back. Whether he finishes the season as the same is up to his production.
Relevant links:
- Against all of our predictions, Langford has been trending up this preseason, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Tyler Loechner identifies Langford as one of the most overvalued fantasy options.
- The hype around Jeremy Langford continues to mystify Ratcliffe.
42. T.Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Along with the rest of the Colts, Hilton saw his numbers dip a bit in 2015, losing 200 yards and two scores. If Andrew Luck is healthy and productive in 2016, Hilton should bounce back fine.
Relevant links:
- Hilton is doing his best to hold off Donte Moncrief and Phillip Dorsett, says Dan Schneier.
- Daniel Kelley explains why the Colts are primed for positive regression.
43. Randall Cobb, WR, Green Bay Packers
Jordy Nelson's injury got all the publicity, but Cobb wasn't healthy for much of 2015, either. He is a strong candidate for a rebound.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Cobb is one to avoid.
- Lee has Cobb pegged as a candidate for disappointment.
- Pat Thorman says Cobb is primed for a serious bounceback.
44. Cam Newton, QB, Carolina Panthers
Newton played to his ceiling in 2015, but there's room for him to regress and still be the No. 1 fantasy quarterback, or close.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee thinks taking Newton this early makes it hard to extract any value.
- Daniel Kelley says Newton is a strong bet for regression.
45. Eric Decker, WR, New York Jets
Decker has had varying degrees of success with Tim Tebow, Peyton Manning, Geno Smith and now Ryan Fitzpatrick. You always want a good quarterback, but he doesn't appear to truly need one.
Relevant links:
- Decker is good, but his value is in his consistency, not his ceiling, says Mike Tagliere.
- Tagliere also says Decker could be getting better with age.
46. Julian Edelman, WR, New England Patriots
Edelman was on a 200-fantasy-point pace before getting injured last year. That's basically his ceiling in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere says Edelman is currently going around his ceiling.
- Edelman had an injury scare, but Jeff Ratcliffe says he should still be a good draft play.
- Even amid injury concerns, Ratcliffe says Edelman is still a solid WR2.
47. DeMarco Murray, RB, Tennessee Titans
The move from Dallas to Philadelphia was accompanied by a huge reduction in production for Murray. Now in Tennessee, he needs to prove himself all over again.
Relevant links:
- Murray is going too high in drafts, says Tyler Loechner.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says owners of Murray should handcuff him with rookie Derrick Henry.
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks Murray offers a lot of risk in drafts.
48. Giovani Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Bernard could see his target numbers rise in 2016, with Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu gone and Tyler Eifert a question mark.
Relevant links:
- Bernard’s reputation as a big pass-catcher is overstated, says Daniel Kelley.
- Tyler Loechner says Bernard could be an RB1 if everything breaks right.
49. Golden Tate, WR, Detroit Lions
With Calvin Johnson retired, there's reason to think Tate can ascend; he finished as the No. 13 receiver in 2014, when Johnson dealt with injuries.
Relevant links:
- Despite buzz around Marvin Jones in camp, Jeff Ratcliffe still thinks Tate is the Detroit receiver to target.
- Mike Tagliere prefers Randall Cobb to Tate this season.
50. Frank Gore, RB, Indianapolis Colts
Gore is the oldest regular back in the league, but that didn't stop him from finishing as the No. 11 fantasy back. He'll be the Colts' No. 1 as long as he can.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe isn't touching Frank Gore this year.
- Michael Moore says Gore isn’t likely to be a top-20 back again.
- Ratcliffe says Josh Ferguson could be a presence in the Indianapolis backfield.
[Be sure to check out our PFF Draft Master tool and try a mock draft, complete with offensive line grades, full projections and all the PFF data.]
51. Jordan Reed, TE, Washington Redskins
Entering Week 7 last year, Reed had one touchdown and not even 300 yards on the season and had just missed two games to injury. The rest of the way, he was the No. 1 tight end in fantasy. If he can stay healthy, he has a crazy-high ceiling.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Reed's upside makes him a better pick than the more trustworthy Greg Olsen.
- There are plenty of mouths to feed in Washington, but Pat Thorman thinks Reed is still valued properly.
52. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Maclin was one of the focal points of the Kansas City offense last year, and that shouldn't change much in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere would opt for Maclin over Julian Edelman this year.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Maclin won’t wow anyone, but he’s pretty safe for strong production.
53. Duke Johnson, RB, Cleveland Browns
Johnson was a big pass-catcher last year, and under Hue Jackson has the chance at seeing even more work in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Daniel Kelley thinks the Cleveland running game has become overrated.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says fantasy players who are crazy for Johnson might be forgetting Isaiah Crowell.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Johnson is an enticing PPR option.
54. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Fitzgerald started 2015 as hot as anyone before cooling off. Still, he promises to have a big target number as Arizona's possession guy.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere would rather invest in Donte Moncrief than Fitzgerald this season.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says even if Fitzgerald isn’t at his peak anymore, he’s still a strong option.
55. Jeremy Hill, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Hill didn't rush for 100 yards in any game last year, but 12 total touchdowns kept him fantasy relevant. He needs a better balance of production in 2016.
Relevant links:
- As a touchdown-heavy guy, Hill is a strong best-ball option, says Mike Tagliere.
- Mike Castiglione thinks this is far too low for Hill to be in drafts.
56. John Brown, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Brown, Larry Fitzgerald and Michael Floyd form a formidable trio. All three should have their place in 2016, with Brown offering big upside but perhaps not huge consistency.
Relevant links:
- Tyler Loechner pegs Brown as a guy being undervalued so far.
- Mike Tagliere says Brown is the one of the three Arizona receivers to target in fantasy.
- Arizona is a safe bet for regression as a team, says Daniel Kelley.
57. Donte Moncrief, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Moncrief is an ascending weapon in the Indianapolis offense. He unseated Andre Johnson in 2015 and is now a prime running mate for T.Y. Hilton.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks there’s a chance Moncrief is the top receiver in Indianapolis this season.
- Mike Tagliere says Moncrief’s ADP should keep climbing.
58. Arian Foster, RB, Miami Dolphins
A late-summer addition, Foster was excellent in his Houston days whenever he was healthy enough to play. Odds are good he'll be the same in Miami, but that health caveat still applies.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe breaks down how Foster and Jay Ajayi will fit into the Miami backfield.
59. Danny Woodhead, RB, San Diego Chargers
Woodhead led all running backs in targets and receptions last year. He probably won't quite do that again, but he is one of the elite receiving backs in the game.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Melvin Gordon should cut into Woodhead’s performance.
60. Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Carolina Panthers
Benjamin tore his ACL in the preseason last year, and the Panthers didn't really miss a beat. Even if he's 100 percent, he might not dominate targets as much as he did in 2014.
Relevant links:
- Benjamin's draft stock won't yield big returns, says Mike Tagliere.
- Pat Thorman thinks it’s crazy to consider Benjamin the clear No. 1 WR in Carolina.
- Jeff Ratcliffe wonders if Carolina might go with a committee approach at receiver.
61. Greg Olsen, TE, Carolina Panthers
Olsen's ceiling might not be as high as some other guys', but he has maybe the highest floor you'll find.
Relevant links:
- Olsen is good, but Mike Castiglione thinks you’d be better off waiting for a value like Zach Ertz later in drafts.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Olsen doesn’t have TE1 upside, but he’s safe to be a fantasy starter.
62. Ameer Abdullah, RB, Detroit Lions
It was a disappointing rookie season for Abdullah, but with Joique Bell gone, he'll get a shot at being the No. 1 in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks Abdullah might not get enough work to be worth the investment.
- Dan Schneier says Abdullah needs to prove himself a bit in camp to justify a good ADP.
- Daniel Kelley says don’t be surprised if Stevan Ridley steals touches from Abdullah.
63. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Yeldon will split time with Chris Ivory in 2016, but the team should run the ball more than it did last year, helping to offset the timeshare.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee thinks Yeldon has more upside than Chris Ivory, but they’ll steal production from each other.
- Pat Thorman says Yeldon is the easy choice over Ivory in PPR, but it’s closer in standard.
- Mike Castiglione thinks the Ivory addition makes the whole situation a fantasy quagmire.
64. Jordan Matthews, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
Matthews has had a short but up-and-down career so far. With Chip Kelly gone, he'll need to up his efficiency, because his targets will likely drop.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier thinks Matthews isn’t worth it at his current ADP.
- Schneier also says we need to watch training camp to see how the Eagles use Matthews.
65. Coby Fleener, TE, New Orleans Saints
Fleener leaves Indianapolis for one of the few places where he could be a TE1. In New Orleans, he could be an elite fantasy option.
Relevant links:
- Cris Collinsworth likes Fleener and his move to New Orleans.
- Dan Schneier says Fleener’s stock could shoot up during training camp.
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks the move to New Orleans gives Fleener real breakout potential.
66. Doug Baldwin, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Not many receivers have ever been as hot as Baldwin was down the stretch last year. That pace was unsustainable, but he's made himself an upper-tier receiver.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe doesn't like the downside of Baldwin this year.
- Baldwin was historically efficient in 2015, says Daniel Kelley.
67. Michael Crabtree, WR, Oakland Raiders
Crabtree had a career renaissance in his first year in Oakland. He might not offer that upside again, but he's made himself into a real fantasy option again.
Relevant links:
- Michael Moore doesn’t think Crabtree is likely to repeat his top-20 2015.
68. Michael Floyd, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Floyd is the third of the three big-name Arizona receivers. He'll have big games, perhaps several of them, but could also have no-shows if the other two put up numbers.
Relevant links:
- Floyd carries a high weekly ceiling, says Mike Tagliere.
69. Justin Forsett, RB, Baltimore Ravens
Forsett failed to build on his 2014 breakout in 2015, but he'll start the season as the No. 1 in Baltimore with a chance to re-prove himself.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe says drafting Forsett is too risky.
- Ratcliffe notes Forsett is seeing a lot of threat from his teammates.
- Pat Thorman (begrudgingly) says Forsett is the best investment in the Baltimore backfield.
70. Chris Ivory, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Ivory topped 1,000 yards a season ago, and would rank much higher on this list if not for having signed with Jacksonville, where pairing with T.J. Yeldon saps a big chunk of his value.
Relevant links:
- Ivory's value has a definite ceiling because of T.J. Yeldon, says Mike Tagliere.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Ivory could be a bust.
- Ivory's move to Jacksonville was one of Mike Castiglione's least helpful moves of the offseason.
71. Sterling Shepard, WR, New York Giants
Shepard gets the gift of playing alongside Odell Beckham Jr., which could be a boon for the rookie receiver.
Relevant links:
- Shepard is rising, while Victor Cruz is falling, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
- Ratcliffe says Shepard keeps impressing and climb draft boards.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says she isn't investing in Shepard.
72. Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver Broncos
The story of the 2016 Denver offense is going to be the team's quarterback situation. Thomas should go as far as his passers can take him.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere compares Thomas and Buffalo's Sammy Watkins, and found the Denver receiver lacking.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says the Denver quarterback situation is going to hurt the whole offense.
- Pat Thorman thinks Thomas is going too early in drafts so far.
73. Josh Gordon, WR, Cleveland Browns
Gordon will miss the season's first four games but, barring further news, should be back after that, and still has elite upside.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier says the Gordon hype has gone too far.
- Gordon's eligible again, but the drafting public has pushed him too high, says Tyler Loechner.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Gordon is unlikely to return to WR1 status in the immediate future.
74. Isaiah Crowell, RB, Cleveland Browns
In two seasons, Crowell has 1,313 yards on the ground and 13 total touchdowns. He has not been terribly efficient, but with the proper workload he's not a killer.
Relevant links:
- Scott Barrett says Crowell is likely to be on the wrong side of the Cleveland timeshare.
75. Charles Sims, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sims and Devonta Freeman were the only running backs last year with 500 yards both rushing and receiving. He'll fill the same role in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Sims has been undervalued so far, says Tyler Loechner.
- Based on price to acquire, Pat Thorman likes Sims more than Doug Martin in fantasy drafts.
- Sims is a fine fantasy value even with Martin healthy, says Dan Schneier.
76. Allen Hurns, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Hurns was one of three receivers to have double-digit scores on fewer than 100 targets last year. He'll see some regression, but still offers production.
Relevant links:
- Nathan Jahnke thinks Hurns is an easy stay-away in drafts.
- Regression should keep Hurns from being a top-20 WR this year, says Michael Moore.
77. DeAngelo Williams, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Williams had his career rejuvenated backing up Le'Veon Bell a year ago. He'll do the same in 2016, and could offer the same upside.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere thinks Williams is currently being drafted too high.
- Brandon Marianne Lee says Williams was already a strong handcuff option even before Le’Veon Bell’s suspension.
- Daniel Kelley doesn’t think the Pittsburgh running game will miss much in Bell’s absence.
78. Marvin Jones, WR, Detroit Lions
Jones is the Lions' best (only?) downfield threat now that Calvin Johnson is gone. That alone should give him plenty of chances to produce.
Relevant links:
- Jones has top-15 WR potential, says Daniel Kelley.
- If the signing of Anquan Boldin hurts any Lions receivers, it’s unlikely to be Jones, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
79. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers
Rodgers finished 2015 as the No. 8 QB, with 31 touchdowns against 8 interceptions. Most quarterbacks would kill for that “down” year.
Relevant links:
- Sean Kirby argues for taking quarterbacks early in drafts.
- Scott Barrett says the return of Jordy Nelson should shoot Rodgers back up the draft boards.
80. Vincent Jackson, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jackson had 78 yards in Tampa Bay's third preseason game, and has looked healthy this preseason. If he can stay healthy, his ceiling is high.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere says Jackson showed he could still play this preseason.
- The Buccaneers are primed for team-wide regression, says Daniel Kelley.
81. Dion Lewis, RB, New England Patriots
Lewis was a revelation in 2015 before getting injured. If he can do that again, he's a big-time option. The problem is, he's out “indefinitely” after a new knee procedure.
Relevant links:
- Tyler Loechner thinks Lewis has all the makings of a 1 fantasy running back.
- Meanwhile, Brandon Marianne Lee pegs Lewis as a bust candidate.
82. Tyler Lockett, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Lockett had 104 fantasy points on only 67 targets in 2015 as a rookie; no receiver had more points on fewer targets. He really came on in the second half.
Relevant links:
- Scott Barrett explains why he's definitely investing in the Seattle passing game.
- Brandon Marianne Lee pegs Lockett as a 2016 breakout candidate.
83. Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks
In the eight weeks before Seattle's bye last year, Wilson was the No. 13 fantasy quarterback. After the bye, he was QB2. If that continues, he could be No. 1.
Relevant links:
- Pat Thorman is a believer in Wilson’s late-season surge in 2015.
84. Delanie Walker, TE, Tennessee Titans
Walker had 11 more targets than the No. 2 tight end in 2015. With more weapons around him in 2016, that number should come back to the pack.
Relevant links:
- Michael Moore thinks there’s a decent chance Walker won’t be a top-12 TE this year.
- Pat Thorman also cautions against expecting Walker to repeat his 2015.
85. Torrey Smith, WR, San Francisco 49ers
The arrival of Chip Kelly and the departure of Anquan Boldin combine to make Smith an interesting sleeper play, as he should get a lot of attention in the San Francisco offense.
Relevant links:
- Smith offers good current draft-day value, says Daniel Kelley.
- Mike Tagliere thinks the whole 49ers offense could stand to get more fantasy attention.
- Dan Schneier thinks Smith’s ADP will rise once people watch training camp.
86. Travis Kelce, TE, Kansas City Chiefs
Kelce is one part of the three-headed monster in Kansas City. He is firmly in the second tier of tight ends, after Rob Gronkowski in a tier by himself.
Relevant links:
- Pat Thorman thinks Kelce will see a benefit from a more powerful Kansas City offense.
87. Willie Snead, WR, New Orleans Saints
Snead was something of a surprise last year, but in a high-powered New Orleans offense, he should be plenty productive in 2016.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier says Snead is primed for a big season.
88. Theo Riddick, RB, Detroit Lions
Riddick tied Danny Woodhead for most receptions by a running back last year. Give him a little more touchdown luck (only three in 94 targets), and he could rise up the ranks.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier says Riddick might not be his team’s No. 1, but he carries plenty of fantasy value.
89. Drew Brees, QB, New Orleans Saints
In 2016, Brees threw for his fewest yards and touchdowns since 2010. Of course, he still reached 4,870 and 32. He's as elite as it gets.
Relevant links:
- Dan Schneier thinks Brees will be the No. 1 fantasy QB this year.
- Mike Tagliere says Brees offers extra value in best-ball formats.
- Brees is ready to be a top-flight fantasy QB again, says Jeff Ratcliffe.
90. DeVante Parker, WR, Miami Dolphins
A popular breakout candidate, Parker could rise to the top of the Miami depth chart quickly, though preseason hasn't gone according to plan.
Relevant links:
- Cris Collinsworth says Parker is due for a breakout.
- Jeff Ratcliffe thinks the Parker offseason love has gotten a bit out of hand.
- Dan Schneier thinks a strong camp could shoot Parker up the draft boards.
91. Rishard Matthews, WR, Tennessee Titans
Matthews was a top-30 receiver with Miami in 2015 prior to his injury. He signed with Tennessee in the offseason to be the team's new No. 1 receiver, but he's now battling Tajae Sharpe for that role.
Relevant links:
- If there was any doubt left, Jeff Ratcliffe says the trade of Dorial Green-Beckham locks Matthews into his role.
92. Andrew Luck, QB, Indianapolis Colts
After his great 2014, last season was a big disappointment for Luck. He's a safe bet to return to QB1 status, though.
Relevant links:
- Jeff Ratcliffe wonders if the drafting community is overrating Luck.
- Pat Thorman says even if the Colts aren’t No. 1 in the league in passing volume, they’ll be close.
- Ratcliffe says Andrew Luck isn’t a lock to return to his previous heights.
93. DeSean Jackson, WR, Washington Redskins
Jackson remains a big-play guy, and there's room for that. You don't want him as much in PPR, but he is always a threat for a touchdown.
Relevant links:
- Even with several receiving options in Washington, Pat Thorman thinks Jackson is a bargain.
94. Zach Ertz, TE, Philadelphia Eagles
Ertz finished seventh among tight ends in yards last year, but only 10th in fantasy points by virtue of only scoring two touchdowns. A little more touchdown luck will really boost his stock.
Relevant links:
- Mike Tagliere says he would prefer Dwayne Allen to Ertz.
- Jeff Ratcliffe says Ertz is a must-draft player.
- Daniel Kelley projects Ertz to be a top-four tight end.
95. Gary Barnidge, TE, Cleveland Browns
Barnidge was drafted in 2008 and had 603 yards for his career before 1,043 yards and nine scores in 2015. He was one of last year's biggest breakouts.
Relevant links:
- Daniel Kelley notes that Barnidge looks likely to bring some much-needed stability to the Cleveland offense.
96. Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Roethlisberger heads up maybe the league's top offense, which means his fantasy floor is very high.
Relevant links:
- Andy Dalton will outproduce Roethlisberger for fantasy, says Daniel Kelley.
- Brandon Marianne Lee on why Roethlisberger is one of her fantasy stay-aways this season.
- Mike Castiglione likes getting Roethlisberger at this price more than paying a higher price for Aaron Rodgers.
97. Travis Benjamin, WR, San Diego Chargers
Benjamin had some big moments in 2015 with the Browns before signing with San Diego as a free agent in the offseason. He should be the field-stretcher for the Chargers this season.
Relevant links:
- Brandon Marianne Lee thinks Benjamin could be a breakout receiver.
98. Steve Smith, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Smith came off the PUP list in mid-August as he worked to recover from last year's season-ending ankle injury. He's expected to be ready to start the season.
Relevant links:
- Questions around Smith have shot Kamar Aiken's ADP up this preseason, says Brandon Marianne Lee.
99. Tavon Austin, WR, Los Angeles Rams
The Rams signed Austin to an extension late in the preseason, despite the fourth-year receiver never topping 475 receiving yards in a year — though he did have 434 rushing yards last year to top 900 from scrimmage.
Relevant links:
- Daniel Kelley says Austin offers sneaky-great value at his current average draft position.
100. Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans
Henry has looked strong in the preseason so far, meaning the rookie will challenge veteran addition DeMarco Murray for playing time right off the bat this season.
Relevant links:
- Considering draft stock, Jeff Ratcliffe prefers Henry to DeMarco Murray right now.
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