As the 2024 regular season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the start of the season. After months of research and analysis, there are several key factors to consider for each team that could have a significant impact on fantasy performance. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most intriguing storylines heading into the season.
Arizona Cardinals: While Greg Dortch has received a lot of attention as a top sleeper pick, it’s worth keeping an eye on Michael Wilson’s role as a wide receiver. If he shows natural progression in his second year, he could be a steal in fantasy drafts.
Atlanta Falcons: Bijan Robinson’s promise as a running back has generated a lot of buzz, but Tyler Allgeier could be a valuable backup option if the Falcons continue to split backfield work, especially near the goal line.
Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens’ offense has been a disappointment in recent years, but rookie Devontez Walker could be a hidden gem. While Nelson Agholor has been the popular choice among pundits, Walker could surprise as a rotation player.
Buffalo Bills: Losing Stefon Diggs leaves a void in the Bills’ receiving corps, but rookie Ray Davis could step up as a goal-line threat. If he becomes the team’s primary option near the end zone, he has the potential to score multiple touchdowns.
Carolina Panthers: Xavier Legette, a first-round rookie wide receiver, has the size and talent to make an impact. Despite being available in later rounds, his draft capital alone makes him an intriguing prospect.
Chicago Bears: The coaching staff has praised rookie Roschon Johnson for his ability to read defenses. In an ascending Chicago offense, Johnson could contribute immediately as a pass-catching option.
Cincinnati Bengals: Andrei Iosivas, a Bengals wide receiver, has been impressive in preseason, taking first-team reps with Joe Burrow. If things don’t go as planned with Ja’Marr Chase, Iosivas could be a steal in fantasy drafts.
Cleveland Browns: The uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson’s status as a starting quarterback is concerning. Fantasy owners should closely monitor this situation before Week 1.
Dallas Cowboys: Jalen Tolbert has the potential to be a fantasy asset in the Cowboys’ offense if Brandin Cooks struggles. Tolbert’s untapped potential could provide a boost to the passing attack.
Denver Broncos: Jaleel McLaughlin, a backup running back, brings explosiveness to a team in need of playmakers. He could be a valuable fantasy asset if given the opportunity.
Detroit Lions: Though it may be too late to pick him up off waivers, Jameson Williams could be a player worth targeting in a trade. He has the potential to make an impact in the Lions’ offense.
Green Bay Packers: Jayden Reed’s snap share should be closely monitored by fantasy managers. If he takes on a larger role in the Packers’ offense, he could provide significant value.
Houston Texans: Cam Akers has outperformed Joe Mixon as the Texans’ top running back in preseason. Fantasy owners should consider adding Akers to their rosters if possible.
Indianapolis Colts: Kylen Granson, a tight end, has been getting first-team reps and could be a viable streaming option. His limited but productive samples make him an intriguing dark-horse pick.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Keep an eye on the utilization of rookie Brian Thomas Jr. within the Jaguars’ offensive scheme. He could outperform presumed starter Gabe Davis and become a valuable fantasy asset.
Kansas City Chiefs: Samaje Perine could eat into Isiah Pacheco’s passing down and two-minute work. A drop in snap numbers would be a signal to sell Pacheco in fantasy leagues.
Las Vegas Raiders: Will Zamir White see playing time on third downs? If not, he could be a risky pick. Fantasy managers should monitor his usage closely.
Los Angeles Chargers: With uncertainty in the Chargers’ wide receiver room, UDFA Brenden Rice could be a potential league winner. Given his preseason snaps, he’s worth monitoring.
Los Angeles Rams: Kyren Williams and Blake Corum could both suffer in a true split backfield. Fantasy owners should pay attention to how the Rams divide their carries.
Miami Dolphins: Sixth-round rookie Malik Washington could benefit from the Dolphins’ offensive scheme. Despite the absence of their star wide receivers, Washington could emerge as a valuable fantasy asset.
Minnesota Vikings: Sam Darnold’s performance under new offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell could impact Jalen Nailor’s fantasy production. If Darnold performs well, Nailor could be a player to watch.
New England Patriots: The uncertainty surrounding the Patriots’ top target earner makes the situation intriguing. DeMario Douglas is the favorite, but rookie Ja’Lynn Polk could surprise fantasy owners.
New Orleans Saints: Taysom Hill’s versatility could lead to a breakout season. Fantasy owners should monitor his role within the Saints’ offense.
New York Giants: Malik Nabers’ projected target share has been increasing, but Jalin Hyatt could also command outside targets from Daniel Jones. Both players warrant attention in fantasy leagues.
New York Jets: Tyler Conklin has the potential to be a TE1 in the Jets’ offense. With a new quarterback, Conklin could see an increase in production.
Philadelphia Eagles: Sixth-round rookie Johnny Wilson made the Eagles’ final roster and could be a player to watch. His size and speed make him an intriguing prospect.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Pat Freiermuth could be a target hog in the Steelers’ offense. Despite concerns about the team’s decision-making, Freiermuth could provide value in fantasy leagues.
San Francisco 49ers: Elijah Mitchell’s injury opens the door for Jordan Mason to have an impact. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his performance, especially if Christian McCaffrey also deals with injuries.
Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III’s potential as a league-winner is worth monitoring. If he lives up to the hype, he could be a valuable fantasy asset. Zach Charbonnet is another player to watch in the Seahawks’ pass game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: If Mike Evans’ performance declines, rookie Jalen McMillan could step into a prominent role in the Buccaneers’ offense. He could be a late-round steal in fantasy drafts.
Tennessee Titans: Chigoziem Okonkwo, a post-hype sleeper, could provide significant value at the tight end position. With the right route tree, he has the potential to finish as a top-five weekly projection.
Washington Commanders: Washington’s decision to move Jahan Dotson to a division rival indicates their confidence in rookie Luke McCaffrey. He could be a speculative add with flex potential in Week 1.