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WR Rookie Report

Sammy-WatkinsIn this article I focus on ten rookie wide receivers that are making a big impact for fantasy owners. There was once a time when receivers were expected to struggle in their first two seasons, but those days are over. Receivers like Sammy Watkins and Mike Evans were expected to contribute as rookies, but maybe not be legit fantasy starters. All ten of these rookies will likely be drafted as starting fantasy receivers next season, so you should get to know them.

Sammy Watkins, WR, Bills

Through 9 games On pace
Targeted: 74 Targeted: 131
Catches: 42 Catches: 75
Yards: 617 Yards: 1097
TDs: 5 TDs: 9
YPT: 8.34 YPT: 8.34
Drop % 4.1 Drop % 4.1

My Two Cents: Watkins looks to be a star in the making. He is on pace for nearly 1100 yards and nine touchdowns despite having Kyle Orton throwing him the football. If the Bills improve their quarterback situation next year Watkins could become lower end WR1 in fantasy drafts.

Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers

Through 8 games On pace
Targeted: 59 Targeted: 111
Catches: 39 Catches: 73
Yards: 585 Yards: 1097
TDs: 5 TDs: 9
YPT: 9.92 YPT: 9.92
Drop % 3.4 Drop % 3.4

 

My Two Cents: Much like Watkins I wish I could see Evans play with a capable quarterback. He is on fire lately scoring five touchdowns in his last five games. Evans is also averaging nearly 90 yards per game over that stretch. If quarterback Josh McCown can just figure a way to throw it in the general area of Evans, he could have a big end to the year.

Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Panthers

Through 9 games On pace
Targeted: 82 Targeted: 146
Catches: 43 Catches: 76
Yards: 659 Yards: 1172
TDs: 7 TDs: 12
YPT: 8.04 YPT: 8.04
Drop % 8.5 Drop % 8.5

My Two Cents:  At 6’5” Benjamin will always be a threat to score. It would be great if Benjamin and quarterback Cam Newton can get on the same page. In the Panthers last two games Newton is 5-17 with an interception while targeting Benjamin. Even with the struggles Benjamin seems to be a lock to snag double digit touchdowns this year. Next year? He will likely be drafted before all other receivers from his draft class.

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