2017 Preseason Fantasy Rankings: Wide Receivers

1.) Antonio Brown/Pittsburgh Steelers – Running backs are topping the fantasy boards this season but Brown still should be the first wide receiver taken. The past three seasons he has acquired 1,698 yards/13 touchdowns in 2014, 1,834 yards/10 touchdowns in 2015 and 1,284 yards/12 touchdowns last season. Even with Martavis Bryant’s return, it will not hurt his fantasy production.

 

2.) Julio Jones/Atlanta Falcons – Jones has been the league leader in targets over the past four seasons and a very reliable fantasy wide receiver (three games missed over the past three seasons). His only problem is scoring touchdowns. He’s averaged 6.5 touchdowns per season in the last three years. Coach Dan Quinn says he expects Julio to get more red zone targets so the ceiling is high.

 

3.) Odell Beckham Jr./New York Giants – A true fantasy gem, “ODB’s” receptions has increased every year since he has joined the league (91 catches in 2014, 96 catches in 2015, and 101 catches in 2016). Brandon Marshall’s arrival in New York should open up even more opportunities for the speedster but he will need a stronger season from his quarterback Eli Manning.

 

4.) Mike Evans/Tampa Bay Bucs – A definite first round pick, Evans had an excellent 2016 with 96 catches, 1,321 yards and 12 touchdowns. This season should be interesting with the additions of DeSean Jackson and rookie tight end O.J. Howard. Evans is only 24 years old and is still improving as a wide receiver.

 

5.) AJ Green/Cincinnati Bengals – My reason for choosing Green over Jordy Nelson is because Green is targeted more (31 percent of the Bengals targets). He’s healthy after missing over six games last year (missed just four previous games in his career). He looks like a safe bet for 90 catches and 10 touchdowns this season.

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