As we approach another exciting fantasy football season, smart managers know that success isn’t solely determined by early-round picks. While securing top talent is crucial, it’s often the mid-to-late round fantasy football draft targets that separate the champions from the rest. In this article, we’ll explore five undervalued players who could provide exceptional returns on investment in your 2024 fantasy football drafts.
- Kyren Williams, RB, Los Angeles Rams
Current ADP: RB8 (Round 3)
The hate for Kyren Williams has gone too far. After a breakout 2023 campaign where he finished as the overall RB2 in PPR formats, Williams is inexplicably falling to the third round in many drafts. This presents an incredible buying opportunity for savvy fantasy managers.
Let’s not forget how dominant Williams was last season. He averaged over 21 fantasy points per game, trailing only Christian McCaffrey. The efficiency was there, too, as Williams averaged 5 yards per carry behind an improving Rams offensive line. He was also heavily involved in the passing game, especially near the goal line, where he had the third-highest expected touchdown total among all running backs.
The addition of rookie Blake Corum has caused some hesitation among drafters, but there’s still plenty of work to go around. Williams had 260 touches in just 12 games last year. Even if Corum carves out a role, Williams should still see 250+ touches in a Sean McVay offense that has historically funneled production to a lead back.
At his current ADP, Williams provides both a safe floor and immense upside. He’s proven he can be an elite fantasy asset, and the Ram’s offense showed signs of returning to form late last season. Don’t overthink this one – if Williams is there in the third round, smash that draft button.
2. Joe Burrow, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Current ADP: QB8 (Round 8)
Joe Burrow stands out as one of the best values at the quarterback position this year. Currently going as the QB8 off the board, Burrow is being drafted after less proven commodities like Kyler Murray, CJ Stroud, and Anthony Richardson. While those players offer intriguing upside, Burrow provides a much safer floor with elite ceiling potential.
Let’s not forget that Burrow was the QB4 in fantasy just two seasons ago. While he got off to a slow start in 2023 coming off an injury, Burrow was the QB4 in points per game from Week 5 until his season-ending injury. Had he stayed healthy, he likely would have finished as a top-5 QB once again.
The weapons are certainly there for another monster season. Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins form one of the NFL’s most lethal receiving duos. The Bengals have also invested in their offensive line, which should provide Burrow with better protection. Perhaps most importantly, this projects to be one of the most pass-heavy offenses in the league.
There are some durability concerns with Burrow, but injuries are notoriously difficult to predict. At his current ADP, the upside far outweighs the risk. If you miss out on the elite tier of QBs early, waiting on Burrow could pay massive dividends.
3.Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars
Current ADP: TE8 (Round 7)
The tight end position is often a source of frustration for fantasy managers, but Evan Engram offers a safe floor with sneaky upside at an extremely reasonable price. Currently going as the TE8, Engram is being drafted after less proven options like Kyle Pitts and Dalton Kincaid.
All Engram has done over the past two seasons is produce. He’s finished as a top-5 fantasy tight end in back-to-back years. In 2023, Engram led all tight ends in routes run, targets, and receptions. In fact, only three players in the entire NFL had more catches than Engram last season – CeeDee Lamb, Tyreek Hill, and Amon-Ra St. Brown.
With Calvin Ridley’s departure, Engram could see an even larger target share in 2024. He’s already established himself as one of Trevor Lawrence’s favorite targets, especially in the short and intermediate areas of the field. While Engram doesn’t offer the same ceiling as some of the elite tight ends, his steady volume provides an extremely safe weekly floor.
If you miss out on the top tier of tight ends, Engram represents an excellent consolation prize. He’s going 2-3 rounds later than some comparable options, allowing you to load up on other positions while still getting rock-solid TE production.
- Courtland Sutton, WR, Denver Broncos
Current ADP: WR40 (Round 8)
Courtland Sutton stands out as one of the best values at the wide receiver position this season. Currently being drafted as the WR40, Sutton offers WR2 upside at a WR4 price tag. While the Broncos offense was a disaster in 2023, there are reasons for optimism heading into 2024.
Despite the struggles, Sutton still managed to haul in 10 touchdowns last season. While some regression is likely, Sutton has consistently been a red zone threat throughout his career. He’s finished top-10 in end zone targets in three of the past four seasons. Even if the touchdowns dip, an increase in overall volume could offset any regression.
The QB situation in Denver remains uncertain, but that uncertainty is already baked into Sutton’s price. If Bo Nix struggles, Sutton should still see plenty of targets as the Broncos’ clear WR1. If Nix hits the ground running in Sean Payton’s offense, we could be looking at a career year for Sutton.
At just 28 years old, Sutton is squarely in his prime. He’s consistently produced when healthy, finishing as a top-45 fantasy WR in his last four full seasons. That may not sound exciting, but it provides a solid floor for a player you can draft in the 8th round or later. The upside is there for much more if things break right in Denver.
- Brian Robinson Jr., RB, Washington Commanders
Current ADP: RB33 (Round 10)
Brian Robinson Jr. is being severely undervalued in early drafts. Currently going as the RB33 off the board, Robinson offers RB2 upside at an RB4 price. While the addition of Austin Ekeler has scared some drafters away, there are plenty of reasons to be optimistic about Robinson in 2024.
First and foremost, Robinson has already proven he can handle a significant workload at the NFL level. He’s recorded exactly 214 touches in back-to-back seasons despite missing some time. With Jaden Daniels now under center and Cliff Kingsbury calling plays, the Commanders project to have one of the fastest-paced offenses in the league. More plays should mean more opportunities for Robinson.
While Ekeler’s presence is concerning on the surface, it’s important to note that he’s now 29 years old and coming off an inefficient 2023 season. Ekeler has never been a true workhorse back, topping out at 206 carries in his best season. It’s more likely he settles into a change-of-pace role, leaving plenty of work for Robinson.
Don’t sleep on Robinson’s receiving ability either. He actually led all running backs in yards per target last season, showcasing his efficiency in the passing game. As the season progressed, Robinson saw his role in the aerial attack expand.
At his current ADP, Robinson represents one of the best values in all of fantasy football. He has a clear path to 250+ touches in what should be an improved offense. Even if Ekeler carves out a significant role, Robinson should still provide flex value at worst. The upside for much more is there if he solidifies himself as the lead back.
Conclusion
As you prepare for your 2024 fantasy football draft, keep these undervalued players in mind. While they may not be the flashiest names on the board, each offers significant upside at their current draft position. Remember, championships are often won in the middle rounds. By targeting players like Kyren Williams, Joe Burrow, Evan Engram, Courtland Sutton, and Brian Robinson Jr., you’ll be setting yourself up for success both early in the season and down the stretch.
Stay flexible and trust your research. Fantasy football is all about finding value, and these five players offer exactly that. Good luck with your drafts!
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