Fantasy Stars & Studs, Week 14: Lamar Jackson delivers his best

CLEVELAND, OHIO - DECEMBER 14: Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after a go-ahead field goal by Justin Tucker #9 during the fourth quarter in the game against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium on December 14, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – DECEMBER 13: P.J. Locke #37 of the Denver Broncos celebrates a 37-yard touchdown reception against the Carolina Panthers during the third quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 13, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /

K.J. Hamler – Denver Broncos

It’s unlikely that too many fantasy managers who reached the playoffs had Hamler in their lineups for Week 1 of the postseason, but anyone who did reaped the benefits as he put together the most impactful performance of his young career.

Hamler only caught two passes in the Broncos’ 32-27 win at the Carolina Panthers, but each of his receptions went for touchdowns, the rookie finishing with 86 yards to net 22.6 points in PPR scoring.

Whether you believe Hamler’s performance will carry into Week 15 and Denver’s game with the Buffalo Bills depends on your faith in quarterback Drew Lock to rise to a much more imposing challenge and further build his rapport with a wideout who has the skill set to develop into one of more dynamic young slot receivers in the NFL.

Hamler’s breakout day is likely more important for dynasty players who invested in the former Penn State star in their rookie draft this year.

There is at least a decent chance that the Broncos will have a quarterback who isn’t Lock in 2021, and a change under center would fuel hopes of Hamler making a second-year leap akin to that of teammate Courtland Sutton.

Sunday’s effort may not have decided many season-long matchups, but it served to boost optimism that Hamler can be a fantasy difference-maker in years to come.

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