Based on FantasyPros’ ECR (expert consensus rankings) for PPR dynasty leagues, I will give you some prospects to consider that didn’t rank in the top -150 overall. This may give you some targets to consider by trade, the waiver wire (or to snag in the later rounds if you are drafting late this year). These players may not produce much this year, but you should always be planning ahead in a dynasty league.
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Quarterback
Justin Herbert (LAC): 159
Tyrod Taylor looks to be the entrenched starter this season, but we’ve seen this movie before. There’s a plot twist that many expect to play out where Taylor either can’t hold up physically all year or the coaching staff wants to evaluate the rookie. If the Chargers are in the hunt for a playoff spot, Herbert may have a redshirt year, but he could still be an excellent stash.
Other considerations: Dwayne Haskins (WAS), Jameis Winston (NO), Jalen Hurts (PHI).
Running Back
Rashaad Penny (SEA): 154
Another possible redshirt candidate, this time due to a knee injury, Penny is still a 24-year-old first-round pick playing for a team that loves to run the ball. He will start this season on the PUP list, but he could end the year with some momentum if the knee is ready. At worst, you may have the eventual RB1 in Seattle as early as next season.
Joshua Kelley (LAC): 163
Austin Ekeler has established himself as a legitimate stud in this league, but he is only 200 lbs. Kelley is listed at 219 lbs and carries it well. With some uncertainty at the quarterback position and a long list of past injuries among the team’s pass-catchers, Anthony Lynn may lean heavily on the run game this season. Kelley is a definite sleeper this year, and he could really establish himself long term in L.A.
Other considerations: Chase Edmonds (ARI), Darrynton Evans (TEN), Anthony McFarland (PIT).
Wide Receiver
Bryan Edwards (LV): 156
Edwards has apparently turned heads throughout camp with the Raiders and will be a starting receiver in Week 1. Projected by many to be drafted in the first two rounds, Las Vegas may have found a perfect complement to the speedy Henry Ruggs III. At 6′ 3″ and 215 lbs., Edwards has the frame to turn into a red-zone threat, but he can also carve out a productive full-time role with the Raiders.
Andy Isabella (ARI): 179
Isabella had a dismal rookie year stat-wise with only nine catches and one touchdown. If you have a deep bench in your league, though, he may be worth a stash based on his speed, play-making ability, and long term opportunity. If Kliff Kingsbury is allowed to coach this team for the next several years, we could see a guy like Isabella become a household name. This is an offense that isn’t shy about lining up four receivers, so a guy with 4.31 speed could be in a perfect situation to make some splash plays on a regular basis.
Chase Claypool (PIT): 183
A physical specimen, Claypool was clocked at 4.42 at roughly 230 lbs., and he promptly shot up draft boards. If JuJu Smith-Schuster is, in fact, playing his final season in Pittsburgh, Claypool really has a chance to step into a great long-term role with the Steelers. Even if JuJu’s contract is extended, there should be plenty of opportunities (think Martavis Bryant) as early as this season.
Other considerations: Corey Davis (TEN), Dede Westbrook (JAC), KJ Hamler (DEN).
Tight End
Jace Sternberger (GB): 170
Sternberger’s rookie fantasy season was a complete washout due to injury, but he did start to flash in last year’s playoffs. It’s been a while since the Packers had a legitimate weapon at tight end, but with the absence of an established WR2, the opportunity is there for Sternberger to continue the upward trajectory he displayed at the end of last season. If he can gain the trust of Aaron Rodgers, he could be a star.
Other considerations: Gerald Everett (LAR), Will Dissly (SEA), Adam Trautman (CHI).
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Sheldon Curtis is a featured writer at FantasyPros. For more from Sheldon, check out his archive and follow him @sheldon_curtis.