With the start of the NFL season, we know fantasy football players are paying close attention to how players look and who they’re matching up against. Think of star players such as Khalil Shakir, Miles Sanders, and Marvin Harrison Jr. While each of them brings very different stories, they all bring something special to what they can provide this year.
One other player Khalil Shakir, Khalil Shakir steals the show of Buffalo’s wide receivers with his consistency. Most seem to consider him too limited in talent to have much upside. He will have to do a lot to raise that fantasy stat line, especially considering he’s scored just seven career touchdowns and has five targets in the end zone. Miles Sanders is one of the more intriguing players this season. He finished as the RB16 in fantasy points (RB25 in PPG) while amassing 1,132 total yards and nine total touchdowns.
Outside of the proven veterans, high-caliber rookies such as Jaydon Blue can emerge and make a huge impact. With Sanders and Blue having the chance to make the biggest impact in the backfield. One of them might not only be okay, but become the “hot hand.” This is crucially important especially as they head into a difficult game against their in-state rivals. This Eagles defense is known as one of the best at stopping the run.
Khalil Shakir: Steady Yet Limited
WR Khalil Shakir Khalil Shakir has quickly become a reputation for himself as a trustworthy target in the depths of Buffalo’s receiving pool. His limited scoring ability raises concerns for fantasy managers seeking high-reward players. Even with his dependable play, Shakir’s production of only seven career touchdowns reflects the lack of success in reaching the end zone on a regular basis.
Shakir’s five career end zone targets only makes worse how well he’s failed to take advantage of solo scoring opportunities. He’s a high-floor guy to round out your lineup with. The problem with his explosive play potential is he’s not the best option for helping you achieve maximum fantasy output.
“If you want a more detailed look at some of this data, be sure to check out the weekly Shadow Report: WR vs. CB Cheat Sheet.” – source not specified
Nevertheless, as this strange season continues, managers will have more tough choices to make. No doubt Shakir provides some reliable room-service options, but the Bills should explore better receivers outside the hash marks with more upside.
Miles Sanders and Jaydon Blue: A Dynamic Duo
Miles Sanders is riding the statistical wave of success going into this new season. Sanders erupted for 1,132 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023. A top-16 RB in fantasy points per game, Sanders produced enough in 2020 to prove that he is at least a useful option. Though rookie Jaydon Blue is a nice addition, there are a lot of questions about how this backfield will be handled.
At ESPN, Mike Clay points out the unknowns in the Dallas backfield. He anticipates that Javonte Williams will lead the backfield, but he recognizes that both Sanders and Blue have the potential to emerge as regulars. By all measures, the matchup against the Eagles presents one of the worst possible week-to-week challenges for a tailback. A year ago, they had the second-lowest expected points added (EPA) allowed per rush defensively.
“The Dallas backfield is one of the biggest head-scratchers in fantasy. Miles Sanders and rookie Jaydon Blue also figure to see some run and either could quickly emerge as the ‘hot hand.’” – Mike Clay
It’ll be something fantasy owners will have to pay attention to in order to see how this situation plays out. If either Sanders or Blue secures a solid role from the get-go, both can enjoy a fruitful campaign. This unique and rare opportunity could very well set them up for career defining performances.
Rising Stars: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Others
Marvin Harrison Jr. is yet another name surprising and impressing this season. Projected to cruise in as Jordan Love’s first-choice weapon on the outside, Harrison pours an immense amount of skill into the defensive unit. With Romeo Doubs on one boundary and Reed at the other, this trio puts out an electric passing attack. Provided Reed remains healthy, they’ll make up a significant amount of fantasy points.
Alvin Kamara, James Conner, Kyler Murray, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, and Mark Andrews stand out as lineup locks for Week 1. Each player enhances the performance of those around them. They have become key cogs in their teams’ offensive attacks.
As clubs set their opening-weekend rosters, these talents will likely be front and center on that Saturday in late March. It’s telling that by their last competitive outings that they became not just picks, but must-have picks on any competitive fantasy roster.
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