Team 1: Devonta Freeman, RB, Falcons
Every year it seems like the fantasy world thinks it’s time Freeman loses his starting job to Tevin Coleman. However, that has yet to happen and doesn’t figure to start this season.
Team 2: Jordan Howard, RB, Bears
Howard’s value in PPR scoring is much lower than in standard leagues. He isn’t a pass catching threat and will likely give up third-down work to Tarik Cohen. However, Howard’s success near the goal line makes him a touchdown machine.
Team 3: Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers
Tampa Bay’s quarterback situation has dropped Evans in fantasy drafts. It’s hard to feel great with Ryan Fitzpatrick throwing him passes for at least the first four games.
Team 4: Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots
Gronk is the first tight end off the board which will likely be the case in most drafts. He is still a major matchup problem and one of Tom Brady’s favorite targets. New England’s turnover at running back and wide receiver could mean more work for Gronkowski.
Team 5: Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals
Arizona’s quarterback situation looks much better now than it did for much of last year. Sam Bradford or Josh Rosen figure to be under center which should stabilize the offensive attack. Both will obviously lean heavily on the veteran Fitzgerald.
Team 6: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
The first quarterback comes off the board here in round three. Rodgers has produced every year he’s been able to stay healthy. However, there have been more than a few occasions where he missed time with injury.
Team 7: T.Y. Hilton, WR, Colts
Hilton has his running mate, Andrew Luck, back in the mix which has brought more optimism for his fantasy output.
My Team: Joe Mixon, RB, Bengals
Mixon is one of my top candidates for a breakout season. He showed flashes as a rookie, but never got in a rhythm. The Bengals now appear ready to make him a more important part of the offense which will include touches in the passing and running game.
Team 9: LeSean McCoy, RB, Bills
McCoy’s situation is tough to evaluate for fantasy purposes. He’s in line for a lot of work, but his production last year really tailed off. It also doesn’t help that the Bills offense could be a work in progress.
Team 10: Stefon Diggs, WR Vikings
After landing Melvin Gordon and Leonard Fournette, Team 10 lands a high-upside player as their No. 1 wide receiver. Diggs is capable of some big numbers, but also comes with injury concerns.