Derek Carr (QB, OAK) - 2018 Fantasy Football Draft Sleeper

Phil Clark profiles quarterback Derek Carr as a draft sleeper for the 2018 NFL season.

BALLER MOVE: Target ~120

CURRENT ADP: ~130

ANALYSIS: The majority of owners have dismissed Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr as a viable option this season, as memories of his substandard 2017 season have lingered (22 touchdowns/ 3,496 yards). Yet, he is just one year removed from a QB10 finish in 2016 (28 touchdowns/ 3,937 yards), during which a broken fibula in Week 16 left him just 63 yards short of a 4,000-yard season. He also finished at QB14 in 2015 (32 touchdowns/3,987 yards), although both of his promising seasons have been largely disregarded.

However, Carr's struggles were a consequence of Oakland's overall disintegration on the field, under a coaching staff that was overmatched and incapable of resuscitating the season. Carr should now be revitalized by Jon Gruden's newly implemented offense, while also being prompted to elevate his proficiency amid Gruden's relentless prodding. While this includes improving his footwork and accuracy, Gruden’s will also amend last year’s unoriginal play calling. According to Pro Football Focus, Carr ran play action on just 14.0 percent of passing plays, which was the third-lowest in the league. He should capitalize on this year’s improved strategic approach and is worthy of selection before his present ADP.