Darren Waller

Fantasy Upside

Darren Waller exploded in his fourth season. After three years and just 18 total receptions, he entered last season as the starter for the Raiders and responded with a fantastic season. He caught 90 balls on 117 targets, and had 1,145 yards and three touchdowns. He led the team in both receptions and receiving yards and showed seam-stretching ability. He was fifth among tight ends with 12.7 yards per reception and had a 75-yard touchdown.

Fantasy Downside

The Raiders mysteriously added Jason Witten in the offseason, who is likely to take targets away from someone. While it’s very possible the two of them are on the field at the same time regularly, it’ll be interesting to see where that places Waller. He had significant snaps out wide and in the slot last season, so he definitely has the skill set, but he was still inline on 59% of his offensive snaps, according to PFF. The way this dynamic shapes out will help frame what kind of upside Waller has as he tries to repeat an excellent 2019 season. Additionally, Waller’s three touchdowns will need to improve if he can crack the elite fantasy tight end territory.

2020 Bottom Line

Waller should be a solid weekly starter at a position where consistency is scarce. In all likelihood, Witten will be mostly a backup and some additional weapons in the passing game might take pressure off Waller. Still, his fifth-round ADP in 12-team leagues can be a little hard to stomach when that’s a prime spot to grab a WR2. If he slides a little however, grab him eagerly as he should be in line for another great season.