5 best fantasy football pickups to make for Week 1
By Jakob Ashlin
![Philadelphia Eagles running back Boston Scott (35): Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports Philadelphia Eagles running back Boston Scott (35): Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/d895933de6098a349c160c01e3bc00d786170aaf3c765541d09ee7ab931e3d16.jpg)
4. WR Sammy Watkins, Green Bay Packers
Rostered: 4.9%
After losing Davante Adams and Marquez Valdes-Scantling in free agency, there is a lot of uncertainty at wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers. Nevertheless, Aaron Rodgers remains at quarterback, and the receivers on the current roster will have some fantasy value.
The Packers have a great Week 1 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings allowed the most receiving yards in the NFL last season. In addition, the Packers scored 30+ points in both of their games against the Vikings last season. So, the Packers wide receiver group is worth an extra look this week.
Rookie Christian Watson is listed as questionable for Week 1, and he is listed behind Allen Lazard, Sammy Watkins, and Randall Cobb on unofficial depth charts. At the moment, Lazard is rostered in 88.7 percent of ESPN leagues. So, Watkins is the top option, who is widely available.
In 2021, Watkins did not have a spectacular season for the Baltimore Ravens; he had 27 receptions for 394 yards and one touchdown. Nevertheless, his potential workload in the Packers’ offense gives him too much upside to ignore.
He is a solid FLEX option this week.