Is Allen Lazard a worthy pickup for fantasy football managers?
Fantasy football managers are always on the lookout for breakout players who can provide a significant boost to their teams. One player who has recently caught the attention of many managers is Allen Lazard, the wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers. After a strong showing in the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, Lazard’s performance dipped in Week 2, leaving fantasy managers uncertain about his potential. However, his impressive touchdown catch in Week 3 has once again put him in the spotlight and raised the question: is Allen Lazard a worthy pickup for fantasy football managers?
Inconsistency is a common concern for fantasy managers when evaluating players, and Lazard’s fluctuating performance in the first few weeks of the season has certainly raised some eyebrows. However, it is important to consider the context and potential reasons behind his Week 2 slump. In that game, Lazard faced a tough matchup against the Detroit Lions, who have a solid secondary. Additionally, the Packers’ offense as a whole struggled in that game, which likely contributed to Lazard’s low point total. It is crucial not to make hasty judgments based on one subpar performance.
One of the key factors that make Lazard an intriguing pickup is his role in the Packers’ offense. While Davante Adams is undoubtedly the team’s number one receiver, Lazard has established himself as a reliable target for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Lazard has showcased his ability to make big plays and has earned the trust of his quarterback. This trust and rapport with Rodgers bode well for Lazard’s future prospects in fantasy football.
Another aspect that makes Lazard an attractive option is the Packers’ offensive scheme. Under the guidance of head coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers have emphasized a balanced and efficient offense. This approach has led to increased opportunities for Lazard, as the Packers often deploy multiple wide receivers on the field. With Adams drawing significant attention from opposing defenses, Lazard has the opportunity to exploit one-on-one matchups and make an impact in the passing game.
Numbers and statistics also support the case for Lazard as a worthy pickup. Despite his underwhelming Week 2 performance, Lazard is currently ranked as the WR32 in PPR formats. This indicates that he has already provided fantasy managers with a decent return on investment. Furthermore, Lazard’s red zone involvement is particularly encouraging. In the first three weeks of the season, Lazard has received five red zone targets, which highlights his potential for scoring touchdowns and accruing valuable fantasy points.
While it is essential to consider Lazard’s potential and the factors that make him an intriguing pickup, it is important to exercise caution and manage expectations. Lazard is not without competition for targets in the Packers’ offense. The emergence of rookie wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling and the impending return of Equanimeous St. Brown from injury could potentially limit Lazard’s opportunities moving forward. Additionally, the Packers’ offense is known for its reliance on the running game, with Aaron Jones serving as a focal point. This could limit the overall passing volume and subsequently impact Lazard’s fantasy production.
In conclusion, Allen Lazard presents an enticing option for fantasy football managers looking to bolster their wide receiver corps. His strong rapport with Aaron Rodgers, involvement in the Packers’ offense, and red zone opportunities make him a player worth considering. However, it is essential to remain cautious and temper expectations, as competition for targets and the Packers’ offensive scheme could impact Lazard’s fantasy production moving forward. Ultimately, managers should carefully evaluate their team’s needs and weigh the potential risks and rewards before making a decision on whether to prioritize Lazard during waiver wire processing.