The start of training camp is just around the corner. With this, NFL fantasy football owners are gearing up for another terrific season, hoping to win their fantasy league. Veteran owners know that having star players is essential. But another key to winning is having depth at each position.
Every season a few players have breakout years. Drafting these ‘sleepers’ is essential to winning a league championship. This article will help identify these players and hopefully help owners during the 2017 season.
NFL Fantasy Football: Top Sleepers for the 2017 Season
Quarterback
Despite having a solid 2016 season, Tennessee Titans signal caller Marcus Mariota isn’t among the top ten at his position. According to FantasyPros he is currently ranked 12th overall in the league. The front office has added several play makers this off-season to help improve the squad. Among those is veteran wide receiver Eric Decker, a touchdown scoring machine when healthy.
Mariota started slow last season, but for an eight week period in the middle of the year, Aaron Rodgers of Green Bay was the only quarterback with more points. The Titans have a strong running attack and a much-improved offensive line. This and an improved wide receiving group should help improve the former Oregon Ducks numbers this season.
Running Back
The New York Giants are known for throwing the football, but a solid ground game is needed. Last year rookie Paul Perkins didn’t make much noise, but he did closeout the season with a 100-yard performance against Washington.
Perkins will be given every opportunity to have a big 2017, especially considering the front office did little to upgrade the position over the off-season. His 4.1 yards per carry from last year isn’t great, but more opportunity this season could see that improve.
Wide Receiver
NFL fantasy football owners know that having a strong wide receiving group is imperative. In fact, many now feel it’s the most important position in the game. Having depth is key as injuries and bye weeks can wreck havoc on owners.
Pierre Garcon was once considered of of the better players at his position, but a move to San Francisco over the off-season has many believing his best days are now in the past. He will be the number one option for the 49ers in 2017 and coming off a 1,000 yard season in Washington, the veterans numbers should have a big drop off.
Tight End
Once a position passed over, tight ends are now solid point scorers. Owners should always have a solid backup and this is where a late round steal becomes valuable.
Austin Hooper was drafted to take the place of Tony Gonzalez for the Atlanta Falcons. The rookie started slow, but his touchdown catch in the Super Bowl could be the momentum needed to kick-start his career.
A third round pick from Stanford, Hooper has the skill set to post big numbers. His size is perfect in the red zone and his 14.3 yards per catch of indicative of his skills as a route runner. For those looking for help late in their respective drafts, the second-year Falcons tight end is a solid option.
The preseason plays a big role for owners. Watching injury reports and depth charts is always helpful. Research is always key to winning, but a bit of luck never hurts. Hopefully these players and tips will help and you can earn bragging rights over friends and colleagues at season’s end.
