RADIO
When it comes to fantasy football, the early rounds are where you secure your stars, but the late rounds are where champions are made. For those playing in deep leagues, finding those hidden gems can be the key to transforming your team from a playoff contender to a championship favorite. It's not just about picking the best players but uncovering those overlooked talents who have the potential to deliver big when it matters most.
In this article, we dive into five late-round fliers you must draft to gain a competitive edge in your deep league. These players may not have immediate name recognition but possess the skills, opportunity, and upside to surprise everyone. Whether it's a sophomore poised for a breakout, a veteran looking to bounce back off an injury, or a player in a new system, these picks could be the secret weapons that put you over the top.
Which players have the right combination of potential and opportunity? Get ready to take notes, because these are the names you'll want to remember when your draft reaches those critical late rounds. Let's dive in!
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Curtis Samuel, Buffalo Bills
ADP: WR52
Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns
ADP: RB37
Chase Brown, Cincinnati Bengals
ADP: RB40
Chase Brown's sophomore season for the Cincinnati Bengals presents a unique opportunity for fantasy football managers looking for late-round gems. With Joe Mixon no longer on the team, the backfield is wide open, and while Zach Moss has been added to the roster, Brown's potential to emerge as a standout is significant. Brown's collegiate performance showcased his ability to be a dynamic and versatile runner, possessing both the speed to break away from defenders and the agility to navigate through tight spaces. Unfortunately, we were unable to see enough snaps from Brown last season to really see what he is capable of at the NFL level, but in just 44 carries, he did average 4.1 yards per rush which is solid for a rookie.
What makes Brown particularly enticing is the Bengals' high-powered offense led by Joe Burrow. With defenses focused on stopping Burrow's prolific passing game, there will be ample opportunities for Brown to exploit less crowded boxes and make impactful plays. As of now, Brown is listed second on the depth chart behind Moss but will see a lot of action from the 24-year-old and would ultimately become the first string if Moss were to miss time. As a late-round draft pick, Brown offers tremendous upside with the potential to secure a significant share of the backfield touches. His combination of talent, opportunity, and the surrounding offensive environment makes him a smart choice for fantasy managers looking to unearth a hidden gem in the later rounds of their drafts. As the RB40, you have nothing to lose!
Joe Burrow working under center… with the handoff to Chase Brown #Bengals pic.twitter.com/aN3wkuSpBW
— James Rapien (@JamesRapien) July 24, 2024
Jahan Dotson, Washington Commanders
ADP: WR61
Jahan Dotson is poised to be a breakout star for the Washington Commanders, making him an excellent late-round draft selection in fantasy football. Sitting as the WR61, the return on investment for Dotson could be league-winning. Dotson's rookie season was a little bit of a letdown as many expected him to be a fantasy gem last season, but never showed the consistency needed to be an every-week fantasy starter. In his rookie season though, he showcased his ability to make spectacular catches as he totaled four touchdowns and was fantastic at creating separation as he hauled in 49 catches. Now entering his second year, he is set to build on that foundation, especially with the arrival of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels, known for his strong arm and mobility, can extend plays and give Dotson more opportunities to make big plays downfield. This combination of talent and potential chemistry between Dotson and Daniels could translate into significant fantasy points.
Moreover, the Commanders' offense is expected to lean heavily on their young, dynamic playmakers as they transition under new leadership. Dotson sits second on the Commander's depth chart behind Terry McLaurin. For Dotson's case, McLaurin's superstar factor could draw more attention on him which will benefit Dotson from favorable matchups and increased targets. His ability to excel in both short and deep routes makes him a versatile option in the passing game. As a late-round draft pick, Dotson offers a high upside with the potential to become a primary target for Daniels, particularly in critical situations. Dotson's talent has always been there, but the quarterback play has not. If you have faith in Daniels being the future quarterback for Washington, Dotson is a must-draft player.
I sat down with Commanders WR @JahanDotson today.
He's determined for a bounce back season.
Jahan told me, "I wasn't up to my standard last year...I don't put that on anyone but myself. I prepared this off season to make sure that I'm where I want to be at the end of the year." pic.twitter.com/Mfqmbw0ZLW
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) July 24, 2024
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