The value of wide receivers is at an all-time high. Depth at the position has made it difficult to stand out with a couple of big names, but failure to meet the standard will handicap any team. Here’s a look at players currently drafted outside the top 75 at the position who may help secure points week in and week out.
Curtis Samuel (77)
Samuel never had a chance to get things moving in 2021. He signed with Washington and was meant to appear opposite fellow Buckeye Terry McLaurin, but injuries limited his season to just five games. Returning healthy, but with a new quarterback, his potential is unclear.
Carson Wentz is expected to start the season at QB and that may be the big limiting factor for Samuel. He’s a versatile receiver that can play as a valuable second option to McLaurin, who rightfully deserves more attention from the defense. Samuel can be found at a lower value in most drafts with interesting potential as a third WR.
Devin Duvernay (84)
Hollywood Brown pushed his way out of Baltimore and the Ravens don’t have a clear replacement for his 91 receptions. Rashod Bateman looks to be the best receiver in the position room, but Devin Duvernay will need to make an impact to keep this offense balanced in 2022.
Duvernay is still playing off his collegiate hype with only 10 games through two seasons, but some of the signs are there. He catches the ball at 72.6% and displays his ability with the ball as an All-Pro returner. Like Samuel, he’ll come at a low cost with value likely increasing through training camp as the pre-season arrives.
Parris Campbell (107)
This is a deep cut. Parris Campbell has frustrated fantasy owners and Colts fans alike since he was drafted in the second round. He’s started only 8 games in three years and is yet to reach 200 yards receiving in any individual season.
The big change for Campbell comes at QB. Matt Ryan steps in for Carson Wentz, and a true veteran presence at the helm could make all the difference. Campbell still offers elite athleticism and the ability to make plays after the catch. Ryan’s arm is not what it once was, and they’ll be looking for Campbell to make plays underneath as he lines up with Michael Pittman (possession receiver) and rookie Alec Pierce (one-dimensional go-route).
Other Players to Watch
- Donovan Peoples-Jones (78): Has shown up in big situations, looking to perform more consistently with Watson.
- Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (82): Tennessee needs a week one receiver as Robert Woods and Treylon Burks will not be real performers until the middle of the season.
