Fantasy Football Players To Target And Avoid - NFC West

Kacey Kasem examines some fantasy football players on NFC West teams worth targeting and those worth avoiding in your upcoming 2024 fantasy football drafts.

As fantasy football managers gear up for the 2024 season, many wonder which options from each team they should draft and which they should avoid. In this article, we look at the NFC West, examining which players are worth selecting and which ones to avoid in your fantasy drafts.

From the explosive offenses of the Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Rams to the emerging talents of the San Francisco 49ers and the veteran presence of the Seattle Seahawks, each team offers a unique array of fantasy prospects.

Let's analyze essential factors such as age, performance trends, coaching changes, and depth charts to provide insights that will help you construct a championship-caliber roster.

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• Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
• Tight end fantasy football rankings

Arizona Cardinals

Target: Trey McBride, TE

When looking at tight ends to target in the NFC West, Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride is a top option. He is the best tight end in the division and can be a valuable asset for fantasy managers. The release of veteran tight end Zach Ertz, who was hurt in Week 7 and is no longer with the Cardinals, has cleared a path for McBride to become the team's TE1.

Last year, the 24-year-old tight end leapt forward with 825 yards on 81 receptions despite quarterback Kyler Murray's absence for over half the season. The former second-round pick was TE7 in PPR leagues. He put up 10.7 points per game for a total of 181.5 points. McBride's late-season surge is reflected in his current FFPC ADP of 25 (TE3). With Murray expected to be healthy this season, McBride's established connection with the quarterback further helps his value.

TREY MCBRIDE WILL NOT BE DENIED
pic.twitter.com/V8c4szfqYe

— SleeperNFL (@SleeperNFL) October 29, 2023

The Cardinals led the league in tight-end targets per game last year with 10.5. The number of tight-end targets showcases the tight end's importance in Arizona's offensive scheme. Last season, the Colorado State product saw targets 106 times, contributing significantly to the team's 179 tight-end targets. Ertz's departure has vacated 43 targets.

McBride scored only three touchdowns in 2023. He will need to improve in this area in 2024. The Cardinals' selection of Marvin Harrison Jr. during the 2023 NFL Draft sets McBride up as the likely second target on the team. The other receivers on the roster are not expected to challenge McBride significantly regarding targets.

According to PFF Defensive Grades, Arizona's defense ranked last in 2023. This scenario bodes well for McBride's status, as the Cardinals will likely rely on their tight end in high-scoring games. McBride's mix of skill, opportunity, and the Cardinals' offensive dynamics make him a primary target for fantasy football drafts.

Avoid: James Conner, RB

While James Conner had a career year in 2023, exceeding 1,000 rushing yards for the first time, fantasy managers should be cautious when considering him for 2024 rosters. At 29 years old, Conner's age and injury history are noteworthy concerns.

The former third-round draft pick has been injury-prone throughout his eight-year career, missing at least three games in five of the past six years. The risk of injury looms despite his remarkable production, including 1,040 rushing yards, seven rushing scores, and one receiving touchdown in 2023.

Arizona's decision to draft rookie running back Trey Benson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft further complicates Conner's status. Benson presents significant competition for touches, hindering Conner's fantasy value. As Conner enters the last year of his contract, the Cardinals might try to transition to more youthful talent.

The Cardinals offensive line has not been great, which could hinder Conner's fantasy production. Adding Benson to the fold gives Conner even more room to struggle. Although the Pittsburgh alum has averaged at least 15 PPR points per game over his last three seasons with Arizona, replicating this performance for a fourth time won't come easy.

The Cardinals' developing offensive dynamics and Conner's durability problems imply a decline in fantasy production. Managers should consider these factors before selecting the 29-year-old in their fantasy drafts.

Los Angeles Rams

Target: Matthew Stafford, QB

As Matthew Stafford approaches his age-36 season, he remains a target for fantasy football managers looking for a late quarterback option. Despite his age, he demonstrated in 2023 that he still has something left in the tank. Stafford averaged 264.3 passing yards and 1.6 touchdown passes per game last year.

The emergence of rookie success Puka Nacua strengthened the veteran quarterback's season. Nacua added a dynamic element to the Rams' passing game. One of the key factors in elevating Stafford's fantasy value this season is the health of star receiver Cooper Kupp. If Kupp can stay on the field, Stafford will have one of the league's best wide receiver duos in Kupp and Nacua.

Ok Matthew Stafford, we see you.pic.twitter.com/r4EoIER6vH

— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) January 15, 2024

Stafford has been known for throwing interceptions. He threw 11 interceptions last year, and in his first year with the Rams, he tossed 17. His interception concerns are there, but if the offensive line stays healthy and provides better protection, the quarterback can right the ship. Los Angeles also made a move by adding guard Jonah Jackson to strengthen the offensive line. Bolstering the offensive line should help keep the veteran quarterback upright and give him time to throw to his weapons.

The fourth-year Ram also gets knocked for his lack of mobility. While it is true that Stafford does not get it done with his legs, he gets it done through the air, even with interceptions being an issue. He tossed 24 touchdowns in 2023, and in his first season with the Rams in 2021, he threw for 41.

Stafford gained his third 3,900-yard season over the last four years. The Pro Bowler should put up solid numbers in 2024. He is a bargain pick you can get late in your drafts and has a high upside. If Stafford stays healthy this season, he should offer significant value.

Avoid: Kyren Williams, RB

Kyren Williams had a standout 2023 season, making his inclusion on this list a little surprising. However, there are significant reasons to doubt his ability to replicate that success in 2024. Last year, Williams missed five games but scored 15 touchdowns in just 12 games played. While he ranked seventh in PPR points with an astounding 21.3 points per game, his touchdowns will likely regress.

A significant concern for Williams is his recurring foot issues, which are keeping him out of OTA action. Foot and ankle injuries have troubled him throughout his career, forcing his absence in 12 games over his first two seasons in the league. His durability is a red flag, and wavering issues could severely impact his performance and availability in 2024.

The Rams' choice to take rookie runner Blake Corum in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft further complicates Williams' outlook. Williams popped onto the scene in 2023 after Cam Akers lost the starting job, seizing the chance to shine.

The addition of Corum threatens Williams' role, especially in the red zone. Corum, known for his scoring ability, tallied 58 touchdowns in his four-year college career, 45 of which came in his final two seasons. Corum will likely eat into Williams' touchdown production.

The presence of a healthy Cooper Kupp could also diminish the running back's fantasy value. Kupp's ability to acquire targets and earn yardage will take opportunities away from the running game. With Kupp back in the mix, the offense will become more balanced. Given all of these factors, Williams is too expensive for the risk he carries.

San Francisco 49ers

Target: Brock Purdy, QB

Brock Purdy is a quarterback fantasy drafters should target in 2024. This offseason will be Purdy's first healthy one, providing him with a critical opportunity to develop his skills and fully build chemistry with his teammates. Unlike last season when he couldn't throw during training camp, Mr. Irrelevant will now have an opportunity to work with the 49ers offensive unit.

In Purdy's first full season under center, he demonstrated his potential, throwing for 4,280 yards and 31 touchdowns while tossing 11 interceptions. Purdy led the league in yards per attempt (9.6) and passing attempts where the ball traveled 20 or more yards (72).

The Brock Purdy Narrative NEEDS to change!!!! He can flat out play! pic.twitter.com/npkNzllLGV

— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) October 9, 2023

Despite the 49ers having the third-fewest passing attempts per game last year, Purdy completed 69.6 percent of his passes. He is an attractive fantasy option due to his deep-ball prowess and efficient passing.

San Francisco's offense has an impressive array of weapons, with Deebo Samuel Sr., George Kittle, Brandon Aiyuk, and Christian McCaffrey returning -- for now. The supporting cast gives Purdy a variety of reliable targets. Samuel and Kittle provide explosive playmaking abilities, while Aiyuk's precise route running and McCaffrey's versatility as a runner and pass-catcher create a powerhouse offensive attack.

Purdy has a track record of leading the team to victory. He has led the team to two NFC Championship Games and the Super Bowl, all in his first two seasons. Given his healthy offseason, the presence of vital playmakers, and a supportive coaching system, Purdy is the perfect addition to fantasy rosters.

Avoid: Ricky Pearsall, WR

The rookie wide receiver drafted with the 31st pick in the 2024 NFL Draft was Ricky Pearsall, a player to avoid for your fantasy rosters. After spending three seasons with Arizona State and his last two with Florida, Pearsall showed steady improvement, ending with a solid 2023 season in which he caught 65 passes for 965 yards and four scores. However, his transition to the NFL comes with challenges that may limit his fantasy production in Year 1.

One of the primary concerns with the rookie is the crowded San Francisco receiver room. With Samuel and Aiyuk returning (for now) and the adaptable McCaffrey in the fold, Pearsall has been pushed down the depth chart. Given these players' established roles on the team, Pearsall may struggle to see enough targets to be fantasy-relevant this season.

Pearsall only had one season with more than 700 receiving yards in college, coming last year. While he is known for his crisp route running and reliable hands, he'll compete against established vets in the league. The jump to the pros often requires time for adjustment, and Pearsall might need more than this season to acclimate fully.

The Florida product turns 24 at the start of the season. His age is a factor that can work against him. Pearsall is older than the average rookie, which might limit his developmental upside. Age is not a detriment to all players but something to keep in your mind.

Opportunities could present themselves if a wide receiver is traded or injuries occur in the season, but relying on these scenarios is risky. Pearsall has upside if this were to happen, but there are better options with brighter paths to success than he offers.

Seattle Seahawks

Target: DK Metcalf, WR

At 26 years old, DK Metcalf is entering his prime. The changes to the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff should benefit him significantly. The new offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb, is known for aggression in the passing game. Grubb, who previously served as the University of Washington's OC, loved to throw the deep ball, aligning perfectly with Metcalf's big-play ability.

Last year, Metcalf played 16 games, catching 66 passes for 1,114 yards and eight scores. Despite missing Week 7 due to rib and hip injuries, he still ranked 23rd among wide receivers in PPR points per game. One of his standout performances came in Week 13 against Dallas, where he recorded 134 yards and three touchdowns.

Can’t wait to watch DK Metcalf torch defenses this year. pic.twitter.com/sjccfC8fI9

— Wyatt 🥃 (@WyattB_FF) June 4, 2024

His 16.9 yards per catch was a career high, and he gained his second-best yards per target with 9.4. Metcalf's eight touchdowns in 2023 were tied for seventh among wide receivers, highlighting his ability to be a threat in the end zone.

The connection between Metcalf and quarterback Geno Smith remains strong, with Smith returning as the Seahawks quarterback. Smith has excelled in deep passing over the last few years, even leading qualified QBs in Pro Football Focus' deep passing grade in 2022. The veteran's deep passing ability bodes well for Metcalf, who thrives on deep routes and explosive plays.

The Ole Miss alum is 26, a prime age for wide receivers. Wide receivers often reach their peak performance around this age, and the seasoned pro is no exception. With Tyler Lockett another year older, Metcalf is set to take on a significant role in this Seahawks offense. Fantasy managers should confidently draft Metcalf, anticipating a solid performance in 2024.

Avoid: Tyler Lockett, WR

Once a staple in fantasy football lineups, Tyler Lockett is now a player to avoid in 2024. Turning 32 in September, Lockett appears to be entering the phase of decline in his career. Last season, the wide receiver snagged 79 passes for 894 yards and five touchdowns in 17 games. 2023 was Lockett's worst fantasy output since 2017. His average of 7.3 yards per target was a career low.

In 2023, Lockett trailed teammate Metcalf in production and impact on the field. Metcalf is in his prime and expected to remain the top wideout for the Seahawks. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is anticipated to take a significant leap forward in 2024, potentially moving ahead of Lockett as the second option at wide receiver.

The Kansas State product's 2023 was disappointing from a fantasy football standpoint. He averaged only 11.9 PPR points per game. Lockett finished 2023 as the WR32 in PPR formats.

Lockett's fantasy value has been primarily impacted by his ability to deliver boom-or-bust performances. He often had explosive outings and then quieter stretches. The veteran's best fantasy performances are probably behind him. Fantasy managers should be alert regarding Lockett this season, knowing his impact could significantly diminish in 2024.

While Lockett has been a reliable target in the past, his declining metrics suggest that fantasy managers would be better off investing in consistent and higher-upside players at the wide receiver position. As younger players such as Smith-Njigba step up and Metcalf dominates as always, Lockett's time as a fantasy stud has long gone.

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