Career Contextualization
D.K. Metcalf is one of the most interesting dynasty situations in the league. Metcalf has already blossomed into one of the league’s best pass catchers. His rare combination of size, speed and athleticism make him one of the most challenging receivers to cover. He’s only 24-years-old and already has 29 touchdowns to his name. On paper, Metcalf should be a dynasty roster’s greatest building block.
But then, the unthinkable happened. The Seahawks traded Russell Wilson away, muddling Metcalf’s short-term and long-term fantasy outlook. A transition period in Seattle couldn’t have come at a worse time for a player who is about to enter his prime.
Current Situation
The current situation is not great, to say the least. How do Drew Lock and Jacob Eason as the only quarterbacks on your roster sound? But, of course, there’s still time for Seattle to add someone else this offseason. Baker Mayfield is still being shopped around by the Browns, and Seattle holds the ninth pick in the upcoming draft via the Wilson trade with Denver.
The presumption is Seattle will use that pick to find their next franchise quarterback. And while that’s certainly better than a future led by Lock, there’s still so much uncertainty for Metcalf. Even the best receivers won’t perform at their best if their quarterback can’t get them the ball.
The good news is Metcalf still put up a WR1 season in half-PPR leagues, even with Geno Smith starting three games at QB. But life without Wilson could hit Metcalf’s fantasy value hard in 2022.
General Prediction for 2022 and Rest of Career
Anyone with Metcalf on their roster might have to suck up a disappointing 2022 season and hope Seattle either trades him or finds a legitimate QB to get him the ball. I’d have to get an incredible haul to consider trading a receiver as young and talented as Metcalf. If you’ve got him, hold him. If you don’t, he’s an excellent buy-low candidate, given all the uncertainty surrounding him.
Ultimately, I’m banking on Metcalf’s talent prevailing in the end.
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