Fantasy football enthusiasts are always on the lookout for potential gems in late-round drafts. As the 2024 season progresses, several players have emerged as notable late-round picks, demonstrating the varying outcomes of these risks. This analysis focuses on the performances of selected players, highlighting both their successes and disappointments.
Evaluating Key Players: Hits and Misses
One standout player is Oronde Gadsden II, a fifth-round selection by the Los Angeles Chargers. Currently projected as a top-10 tight end for the remainder of the season, Gadsden has outperformed established stars like Travis Kelce and Mark Andrews. Since Week 6, he has recorded a PFF receiving grade of 76.8, ranking him among the top tight ends in the league. His 322 yards in that timeframe lead all tight ends, and he has become a reliable target for quarterback Justin Herbert. Gadsden’s impressive performance, especially in red zone situations, positions him as a must-start option in fantasy leagues.
Conversely, Jaydon Blue of the Dallas Cowboys has not met expectations. Drafted in the fifth round, many anticipated that Blue would dominate the Cowboys’ backfield. Instead, he has managed only 22 carries this season, averaging a mere 3.0 yards per carry. With a total of just eight fantasy points, his performance has been disappointing. His struggles are compounded by the fact that he has yet to demonstrate the ability to take on a significant workload, leaving many fantasy managers frustrated.
Another player under scrutiny is Jalen Royals from the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite being selected in the mid-second round of rookie drafts, Royals has yet to record a target this season. Injuries hampered his ability to contribute early on, and while he had a solid college career, he has not yet capitalized on his opportunity with the Chiefs. His status as a non-contributory asset in fantasy leagues has left many owners disheartened.
In contrast, Jacory Croskey-Merritt of the Washington Commanders initially showed promise. Drafted in the seventh round, he was praised for his speed and agility during training camp. He recorded an impressive PFF run grade of 90.1 in the early weeks, ranking him among the best rushers in the league. However, his production has significantly declined since Week 5, with a rushing grade dropping to 55.6 and a stark decrease in fantasy points. His decline raises questions about his long-term viability, although there is still some hope for recovery.
Finally, Elic Ayomanor of the Tennessee Titans has demonstrated potential, albeit inconsistently. As a fourth-round pick, Ayomanor leads the Titans in targets, receiving yards, and touchdowns, which is notable given the team’s struggles. While his average of 7.8 points per game is not stellar, his performance indicates that he could become a valuable asset if the team’s offensive situation improves.
Conclusion: The Nature of Late-Round Picks
The unpredictability of late-round picks in fantasy football often leads to a mix of hits and misses. Players like Oronde Gadsden II exemplify the potential rewards, while others, such as Jaydon Blue and Jalen Royals, serve as reminders of the risks involved. As the season continues, fantasy managers will need to weigh these performances carefully, adjusting their strategies based on player development and team dynamics. The excitement of late-round drafts lies in their potential for surprises, making each season a unique experience for fantasy enthusiasts.
