Top Fantasy Football Sleepers for 2021 – ESPN Rewritten
Fantasy football managers are always on the lookout for the next breakout star, the player who will exceed expectations and deliver big-time production. As we head into the 2024 season, ESPN’s Fantasy analysts have identified a group of sleeper picks who could help lead your team to championship glory. These players may not be the first names that come to mind, but they offer tremendous value based on their current average draft positions (ADP). Let’s take a closer look at some of the top fantasy football sleepers for the upcoming season.
Aaron Jones, RB, Minnesota Vikings
Stephania Bell makes a compelling case for Aaron Jones as a top fantasy sleeper for the 2024 season. Despite some injury concerns in the past, Jones finished strong last year with five consecutive 100-yard games. With an ADP of 63.3, Jones offers excellent value as the RB18 off the board. His versatility as a runner and pass-catcher in the Vikings’ offense makes him a valuable asset for fantasy managers looking for a reliable RB option.
Zay Flowers, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Matt Bowen highlights Zay Flowers as a potential breakout candidate in his second season with the Baltimore Ravens. Flowers showed promise as a rookie, averaging 12.9 fantasy points per game and finishing strong with four games of 19 or more points. With his dynamic playmaking abilities and the Ravens’ emphasis on utilizing him as a three-level target, Flowers has the potential to deliver WR2 numbers at a discounted ADP of WR25. He could be a valuable flex option in 10-team leagues with room for upside.
Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
Mike Clay identifies Evan Engram as a top sleeper pick at the tight end position for the 2024 season. Engram has been a consistent top-five fantasy TE over the past two years and led all tight ends in receptions last season. Despite his proven track record, Engram is often overlooked in drafts and can be had at a significant discount compared to other tight ends. With his high target volume and red zone opportunities, Engram offers excellent value as a top-five fantasy tight end with considerable upside.
Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
Tyler Fulghum is bullish on Kyle Pitts heading into the 2024 season, despite some skepticism from fantasy managers who may have been burned by him in the past. With a new offensive scheme in place and a healthy offseason, Pitts has the potential to deliver TE1 numbers with over 1,000 receiving yards. His current ADP provides an opportunity to capitalize on his upside at a reasonable cost. Pitts could be a difference-maker at the tight end position for fantasy teams willing to take a chance on his potential.
George Pickens, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
Tristan H. Cockcroft sees George Pickens as a high-ceiling sleeper pick outside the top 60 players in fantasy drafts. Despite facing challenges in his rookie season, Pickens showed flashes of his potential as a top-30 fantasy wide receiver. With increased opportunity in the Steelers’ offense following the departure of Diontae Johnson, Pickens could be poised for a breakout season. His discounted cost relative to his potential production makes him an intriguing option for fantasy managers looking for a high-upside WR option.
Terry McLaurin, WR, Washington Commanders
Liz Loza highlights Terry McLaurin as a consistent performer with significant upside for the 2024 season. Despite playing with subpar quarterback play in the past, McLaurin has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four seasons. With a revamped offense under Kliff Kingsbury and a dynamic quarterback in Jayden Daniels, McLaurin’s production could see a significant boost. Projected to be the team’s No. 1 WR with a high target share, McLaurin offers a high-floor option with WR2 potential at a discounted ADP.
Jayden Reed, WR, Green Bay Packers
Daniel Dopp is optimistic about Jayden Reed’s potential for the upcoming season, based on his strong finish in the previous year. Reed demonstrated his fantasy value by finishing as a top-10 wide receiver over the final stretch of the season. With a promising outlook for the Packers’ offense and Reed’s consistency, he could be a valuable asset for fantasy managers looking for a reliable WR option. Reed’s production potential and reliability make him an intriguing sleeper pick for the 2024 season.
Diontae Johnson, WR, Carolina Panthers
Eric Moody believes Diontae Johnson is undervalued in fantasy drafts based on his projected role as the Panthers’ top target. Johnson’s track record of consistent production and a new offensive scheme under head coach Dave Canales could elevate his fantasy value. With an ADP outside the top 30 receivers, Johnson offers WR3 value with the potential for WR2 upside. Fantasy managers looking for a reliable option at the wide receiver position could find great value in drafting Johnson at his current cost.
Javonte Williams, RB, Denver Broncos
Field Yates identifies Javonte Williams as a sleeper pick at the running back position for the 2024 season. Despite some uncertainty in the Broncos’ backfield, Williams emerged as the top option last year and ranked 15th in total touches in the NFL. With his potential for increased efficiency and a healthier knee, Williams could be poised for a breakout season. Drafted at the back end of the 11th round, Williams offers significant value as a potential RB2 with upside for fantasy managers willing to take a chance on his potential.
Nick Chubb, RB, Cleveland Browns
Eric Karabell makes a compelling case for Nick Chubb as a sleeper pick returning from injury concerns. Despite some skepticism around his age and previous injuries, Chubb has a track record of consistent production and a favorable ADP outside the top 100 players. With his proven ability to deliver over 1,300 rushing yards and double-digit touchdowns, Chubb offers significant value as a potential RB1 at a discounted cost. Fantasy managers looking for a reliable option at the running back position could find great value in drafting Chubb for the upcoming season.
In conclusion, the 2024 fantasy football season offers a wealth of sleeper picks with significant upside potential. From established veterans to rising stars, these players could be the key to success for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge in their leagues. By targeting these sleeper picks at their current ADPs, fantasy managers can build a competitive roster with the potential for significant returns. Keep an eye on these players as you prepare for your fantasy drafts and consider adding them to your roster for the upcoming season.