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NFL Draft 2015: Top 10 Fantasy Football Rookie Sleepers

By Zachary Thompson

Jan 20, 2015; Fairhope, AL, USA; South squad wide receiver Tyler Lockett of Kansas State (22) pulls in a pass during practice at Fairhope Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 20, 2015; Fairhope, AL, USA; South squad wide receiver Tyler Lockett of Kansas State (22) pulls in a pass during practice at Fairhope Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Amari Cooper (9) runs the ball during the first quarter of the 2015 Sugar Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Amari Cooper (9) runs the ball during the first quarter of the 2015 Sugar Bowl against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Amari Cooper-WR-Oakland Raiders

Cooper is the most polished receiver in this year’s class, and definitely has potential to develop into a nice receiving option for last year’s rookie-starter Derek Carr. Carr was the only rookie QB to play all 16 games last season and showed signs of being a solid NFL option going forward.

Cooper should instantly be the Raiders top receiver after not having a wide receiver with over 700 yards last season. In fact, the last 1,000-yard receiver for the Raiders was Randy Moss back in 2005.  Cooper has a good shot to break that streak in the next few years as he and Carr grow together in offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave’s system.

Cooper could have some ups-and-downs due to the Raiders’ offense still growing, so don’t over-reach for him. I see him as a strong WR3 who could start in good matchups and in bye weeks, but isn’t necessarily someone to trust as a starter on a weekly basis. Cooper’s high draft status doesn’t  necessarily guarantee he’s the top fantasy receiver for this year, and I actually like the next receiver a bit better based on the situation he’s joining.

Next: 2. Nelson Agholor

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