Dynasty Rookie WR Rankings 11-20: Unveiling Hidden Gems
As the NFL draft approaches, the spotlight naturally gravitates towards the top prospects, but savvy dynasty fantasy football players know that the real value often lies beyond the first round. Here, we dissect the potential of ten wide receivers who could be hidden gems for your dynasty roster.
11. Ricky Pearsall
Ricky Pearsall brings versatility with his ability to thrive in the slot. His impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.41 seconds should quell concerns about not having NFL-level athleticism.
Pearsall’s strong hands, only 2 drops in 2023, and savvy route-running make him a reliable target, but questions linger about his limited college production. The knock on Pearsall, already 23 years old, only had one year of significant production in his 5-year collegiate career. Could it simply be a more mature body as the reason he broke out now?
That’s the thing about the receivers in this tier, they come with risk. They also come with value.
The majority of the league is now running a version of the McVay/Shannahan scheme. Of course, this scheme emphasizes wide receivers who can block. Pearsall might be one of the best-blocking wide receivers in the class. In addition, his production downfield, 33rd in deep catches, puts him in a unique position of offering coaches a reason to play him, and fantasy owners upside with lower expected draft capital. Imagine in a similar vein to a Robert Woods type in his prime.
Keep an eye on him as a potential late-round steal.
12. Roman Wilson
Roman Wilson’s 4.39 40-yard dash time at the combine showcased his speed. Making him ideal for a role as a slot seam stretcher. While his route-running could use refinement, his sure hands, only 1 drop in 2023, and knack for making big plays downfield, 24th in deep catches, make him an intriguing prospect.
He might not be a day-one starter. At 5’11 185 lbs, he stands a bit lean. A lack of play strength is on display when Wilson attempts to release against press coverage on the perimeter. Wilson would greatly benefit from the opportunity to land a gig as a lead slot receiver to play off the line of scrimmage.
Roman Wilson is reminiscent of Christian Kirk in play style and potential.
13. Xavier Legette
Xavier Legette’s blend of size, 6’1 221 lbs, and speed, 4.39 40-yard time, makes him a formidable threat after the catch. His physicality allows him to win contested catches, ranked 42nd.
However, Legette’s route running needs development. Doesn’t possess anything close to a wide receiver route tree in his tool bag. So, therefore, Legette’s pinnacle is unlikely to be reached if his destination is a team solely viewing him as a wide receiver. Legette is a Swiss-army knife and needs to be used as such. Otherwise, he risks becoming the disappointment of my player comparison in Jonathan Mingo.
Xavier Legette is a high-risk, high-reward prospect in dynasty leagues.
14. Jalen McMillan
Jalen McMillan’s prowess as a big slot receiver is evident, but his struggles with contested catches raise concerns. Despite this, his ability to stretch the seam vertically adds value, making him a potential big-play threat. Injuries have plagued him in the past, but if he can stay healthy, McMillan could provide solid depth for fantasy rosters with upside.
15. Malik Washington
Despite his small stature,5’8 194 lbs, Malik Washington’s stocky build gives him surprising power and balance, ranked 1st in missed tackles forced, making him a force after the catch. His prowess in the slot is unmatched, ranking first in slot yards and second in slot catches.
However, his route tree needs development. The majority of what he was asked to do was screens and posts. Options route angles are not taken with the sharpness you come to expect from shifty athletes.
Draft capital may be affected by his size despite his production. Still, Washington’s potential as a slot receiver is undeniable.
16. Luke McCaffrey
Luke McCaffrey’s transition to wide receiver is still a work in progress, but his size and contested catch ability, ranked 2nd, make him an upside asset. On top of his natural genetic route running, his impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.46 seconds suggests high-ceiling potential for a later projected pick. With time and development, McCaffrey could evolve into a reliable option for dynasty owners.
17. Malachi Corley
Built like a running back, Malachi Corley excels in the slot, dominating after the catch, 8.6 YAC, and on screens, 1st in screen yards. His physicality allows him to bully defenders, reminiscent of Deebo Samuel. However, his route running requires improvement, posing a risk for fantasy owners if he is not utilized similarly. Could easily set him on the arc of a Laviska Shenault instead.
Draft capital will be key for Corley’s opportunity. Not just an opportunity for playing time, but how much an offense will be motivated to use him to his strengths. Corley’s dynasty value is more highly dependent on team fit than most, making him a boom-or-bust fantasy asset.
18. Jevon Baker
Jevon Baker’s prowess as a deep threat is undeniable, evidenced by his impressive 15 deep catches in 2023. Not just a one-trick pony as Baker can make plays with the ball in his hands with a solid 7.2 YAC. Completing the triple threat, Baker has displayed above-average play strength accumulating 9 contested catches in 2023. All signs of a receiver capable of being productive at the next level.
However, his struggles with separation and a limited route tree raise concerns about his viability as an outside receiver. Lacks the quickness necessary to consistently win against press coverage. Not a burner by any stretch illustrated by a solid but not great 4.54 40-yard dash time.
His body type and play style is comparable to Terrance Williams. A long time complimentary NFL receiver, but not much more than a WR4 or WR5 fantasy asset.
19. Ja’Lynn Polk
Ja’Lynn Polk’s ability to track the ball downfield, 8th in deep catches, and win contested catches, ranked 16th, makes him a reliable target in traffic. While he lacks elite speed, his 4.52 40-yard time, consistency and body control ability add potential value to fantasy rosters.
Polk’s success will depend on situational volume, as his talent is not transcendent. As of now, he has a 3rd round expectation which should be enough draft capital to warrant taking Polk late 2nd round in dynasty Rookie drafts.
20. Jermaine Burton
Jermaine Burton’s downfield production is evident given his 20.2 ADOT in 2023. The downfall might be that of a one-trick pony. A limited route tree and lack of yards after the catch, 3.4 yards ranked 431st, potentially raise concerns.
While he may not offer much beyond being a deep threat, his ability to come down with contested catches, 9 in 2023, adds value in certain situations.
As a late-round flier, Burton fits the mold of a best-ball-type player. His skill set and athleticism are reminiscent of Jalen Reagor.
In conclusion, while these prospects may not command the spotlight, their potential to contribute to dynasty fantasy football teams should not be overlooked. By identifying and investing in these hidden gems, savvy dynasty owners can build a championship-caliber roster for years to come.
This article was written by Dan Mader @DanMaderFF. Come join Fantasy Football Advice Network for more content discussions. Enjoy previous articles, Top 10 Dynasty WR Rookie Rankings: Emerging Stars of Tomorrow, Dynasty RB Rookie Top 10 Rankings, and Ranking the 2024 QB Rookie NFL Draft Class.
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