Rookie Watch: Top New Players to Draft in Fantasy League

Fantasy League Spotlights
Jun 03, 2024
Jun 03, 2024

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is crucial in fantasy football, and there are several exciting rookies entering the league in 2021. Trevor Lawrence (Jaguars) is the undisputed top pick in the NFL Draft and a strong candidate for the top quarterback spot in rookie fantasy drafts. With a talented group of weapons in Jacksonville, Lawrence should have plenty of opportunities to produce right away.

Another rookie quarterback to keep an eye on is Zach Wilson (Jets). Wilson has all the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback, and the Jets have made significant investments in the offense around him. Although the team may take some time to gel, Wilson's dual-threat ability and high ceiling make him an intriguing rookie quarterback option.

Justin Fields (Bears) and Trey Lance (49ers) are two other rookie quarterbacks with high upside. Both players have the physical tools to excel at the NFL level, but they may not start right away. However, injuries or poor play from their respective starting quarterbacks could open the door for these two talented rookies to see significant playing time and produce valuable fantasy numbers.

Running Backs

Running backs are always a valuable asset in fantasy football, and the 2021 rookie class is no exception. Najee Harris (Steelers) is the clear top running back in this year's class and should be a top-50 pick in rookie drafts. With a strong offensive line and a talented group of receivers around him, Harris should see plenty of opportunities to produce as both a runner and a pass-catcher.

Another rookie running back to consider is Travis Etienne (Jaguars). Etienne is an explosive runner and an excellent receiver out of the backfield. He will likely split carries with James Robinson, but his ability to contribute in the passing game gives him a high ceiling. Etienne could be a valuable RB2 or flex option in rookie drafts.

Javonte Williams (Broncos) and Michael Carter (Jets) are two other rookie running backs to watch. Both players have the potential to see significant playing time and production in their rookie seasons. While they may not be as highly touted as Harris and Etienne, their talent and opportunity make them worth considering in the middle to late rounds of rookie drafts.

Wide Receivers

Wide receivers are deep at the top of the 2021 rookie class, and there are several intriguing options for fantasy football. Ja'Marr Chase (Bengals) is the clear top wide receiver in this year's class and should be a top-15 pick in rookie drafts. With a talented quarterback like Joe Burrow throwing him the ball, Chase should have plenty of opportunities to produce right away.

Another wide receiver to consider is Jaylen Waddle (Dolphins). Waddle is an explosive playmaker with excellent speed and quickness. While Tua Tagovailoa is still developing as an NFL quarterback, Waddle's talent and opportunity make him a valuable asset in rookie drafts. He could be a valuable WR2 or flex option in rookie drafts.

DeVonta Smith (Eagles) and Rashod Bateman (Ravens) are two other rookie wide receivers with high upside. Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2020 and has excellent route-running ability and hands. Bateman is a physical receiver with excellent size and speed. Both players have the potential to see significant playing time and production in their rookie seasons, making them worth considering in the middle to late rounds of rookie drafts.

Tight Ends

Tight ends are typically a lower priority in fantasy football, but the 2021 rookie class has some intriguing options. Kyle Pitts (Falcons) is the clear top tight end in this year's class and should be a top-20 pick in rookie drafts. With his combination of size, speed, and athleticism, Pitts has the potential to be a massive weapon in the Falcons' offense.

Another rookie tight end to consider is Pat Freiermuth (Steelers). Freiermuth is a talented blocker and receiver who should see significant playing time in Pittsburgh's offense. Although he may not have the same upside as Pitts, his opportunity and talent make him a valuable asset in rookie drafts.

Brevin Jordan (Texans) and Hunter Long (Dolphins) are two other rookie tight ends with potential. Both players are talented receivers with the potential to contribute in the passing game. While they may not be as highly touted as Pitts or Freiermuth, their talent and opportunity make them worth considering in the later rounds of rookie drafts.

Sleepers

Fantasy football is all about finding value, and there are several rookies who could outperform their draft position. Trey Sermon (49ers) is a talented running back who could see significant playing time in San Francisco's offense. With Kyle Shanahan's track record of developing running backs, Sermon could be a valuable asset in the later rounds of rookie drafts.

Another sleeper to consider is Amari Rodgers (Packers). Rodgers is a talented wide receiver who should see plenty of targets in Green Bay's offense. Although he may not have the same upside as some of the other wide receivers in this year's class, his opportunity and talent make him a valuable asset in rookie drafts.

Kenneth Gainwell (Eagles) is a versatile running back who could see significant playing time in Philadelphia's offense. While Miles Sanders is the starter, Gainwell's ability as a pass-catcher and runner makes him a valuable asset in PPR leagues. Keep an eye on Gainwell's role in the Eagles' offense, as he could be a valuable asset in the later rounds of rookie drafts.