CAR WR Russell Shepard - Week 9 Fantasy Football Outlook

Week 9 vs. Atlanta Falcons

Shepard had his moments with the Bucs last season, catching 23 passes for 341 yards and a pair of touchdowns in a limited role. He should get more of an opportunity starting this week after the Panthers traded Kelvin Benjamin to the Bills, giving Shepard some long-term upside.

This week, we have Shepard ranked as a low-end WR3 option in most leagues with upside against a very average Falcons pass defense that is tied for 16th in the league in passing touchdowns allowed. Shepard will be challenged by rookie Curtis Samuel for playing time, but he possesses more outside skills than the rookie and should earn the WR2 spot on the team.

Friday, November 3, 2017 - 11:02am
CAR WR Russell Shepard - 2017 Fantasy Football Outlook

Fantasy Upside

Russell Shepard has an outside chance to win a job in Carolina. He showed some ability with the Bucs last year, catching 5-of-6 balls thrown his way for 77 yards and a touchdown against the 49ers in October. He’s only 26, and the Panthers don’t have an established WR2 on the roster.

Fantasy Downside

Shepard isn’t a lock to make the roster, and he’ll need to play well in camp and in the preseason to convince the Panthers to give him snaps over former second-rounder Devin Funchess. His opportunity may be low even if he does win a job, as TE Greg Olsen and WR Kelvin Benjamin will get the bulk of targets.

2017 Bottom Line

Keep an eye on Shepard. If you’re in a deep league and drafting late, he may be worth a flier due to his potential. More likely, he could be an early waiver grab if he makes the roster and Funchess struggled early. Watch his snap count for potential.

Wednesday, August 9, 2017 - 4:51am
TB WR Russell Shepard - Week 9, 2016 Fantasy Football Outlook

Week 9 vs. Atlanta
Russell Shepard has pretty clearly taken over the No. 2 spot behind Mike Evans. He now has a touchdown in back-to-back games, although he didn't produce a lot more than the TD catch last week.

So far, Shepard is reliant on touchdowns, but he's at least on the fantasy radar. He isn't a great start (more of a WR5 play), but he's someone who has been able to produce. If you need a bye week filler, there are worse options.

Wednesday, November 2, 2016 - 9:44am
TB WR Russell Shepard - Week 5, 2014 Fantasy Football Outlook

Russell Shepard - Week 5 vs. New Orleans

Russell Shepard caught two passes for 30 yards in Week 4 against Pittsburgh. Shepard has an interesting history. He was ranked as the No. 3 athlete by ESPN coming out of high school. A Scouts, Inc. reporter compared him to Percy Harvin.

Before you get too excited, realize those two catches last week were the first two of his career. He should get extra playing time with Mike Evans out of the lineup, but he won't be enough of a factor for fantasy.

Friday, October 3, 2014 - 9:48am