Week 1: Watkins vs. Bears
I am not one who is very high on rookie wide receivers. Only two have gone over 1,000 yards in the last five years. But Sammy Watkins already has one thing going for him. He is the Bills No. 1 receiver. That combined with his talent level makes him a very interesting fantasy player.
If you drafted Watkins, it could pay off down the road. But for Week 1, he does not have a good matchup against a pretty good Bears' pass defense and his quarterback doesn't play well on the road. Sit Watkins for Week 1 in all formats. He will be a starter throughout the season, but not this week.
Fantasy Upside
There are three things that make a case for Sammy Watkins fantasy status. His pedigree from college. His physical attributes. But most of all, he is already the No. 1 option in the passing game in Buffalo. Watkins really had a great training camp and there is plenty of optimism for the Bills that he will be a difference maker.
Fantasy Downside
Watkins is a rookie and it's not easy for a rookie to make an impact, especially at wide receiver. Watkins also got banged up at the end of training camp with a rib injury although that won't affect his long-term status. He'll be catching passes from second-year QB EJ Manuel, who looks to be one of the worst starting options in the league.
Bottom Line
The future is bright for Watkins but how good he can be early in his career is a question mark like it is for most rookies. The good news is that he will get a chance as a starter and the No 1 guy in Buffalo so the odds are good he will have an impact first year. Watkins has an ADP of 81 which is actually a little early than his value dictates at this time. Ultimately, he may be held back by the play of QB EJ Manuel.
