There have been times during his three-year career when Denarius Moore flashes enough talent to make you think he can be a number one receiver. And then his chronic inconsistency returns. That trait has finally caught up to him. He is no longer a starter after the Raiders signed James Jones during the offseason and paired him with Rod Streater. In fact, Moore has been battling simply to have a spot on the roster. He won the battle by catching two touchdown passes in Oakland’s preseason finale. Can he win another round and climb back up the depth chart?
Fantasy Upside
Perhaps the best part of Moore’s performance was that both of his touchdown passes were thrown by Derek Carr, Oakland’s quarterback of the future. It is possible Carr could be starting on opening day against the New York Jets. Chemistry between Carr and Moore would help Denarius regain his stride. Streater and Jones are capable players but neither one is likely making the all-pro team anytime soon. Moore’s game-breaking ability is going to be hard to keep on the bench, especially since Oakland will often be playing from behind. In his career, Denarius has five receptions of 50 yards or more.
Fantasy Downside
You have to wonder if Moore will ever put it all together. Usually, receivers really make their mark during their third season. But Moore regressed, with fewer receptions, yards, and touchdowns. Unless he shows unexpected growth, he could always be a player who leaves you wanting more. Neither Streater nor Jones will give up their starting jobs without a fight, as Jones brings quality experience to the table and Streater is a far steadier player than Moore. Oakland’s running game will be the key to their offense, not their passing attack.
Bottom Line
Lower-tier receivers on the Raiders have little in the way of fantasy credibility. An en vogue sleeper in recent years, Moore is now rightfully out of the limelight. Keeping that in mind, owners will have an easier time claiming Denarius off the waiver wire if everything falls into place.
