As the fantasy football draft season begins in earnest, we’ve asked all of SI Fantasy’s writers and editors to weigh in with their top picks in five key categories. Next up: SI Fantasy senior editor Craig Ellenport.
Top Sleeper: Brandon Aiyuk, WR, 49ers
While opposing defenses try to figure out ways to stop 2021 breakout star Deebo Samuel, they might not pay enough attention to Brandon Aiyuk. After a slow start last season, Aiyuk showed flashes. He had 201 combined receiving yards in San Francisco’s last two regular-season games and finished the season with 56 receptions, 826 yards and five touchdowns. Aiyuk went in the 10th round of SI Fantasy’s most recent mock draft, which could be a steal.
Top Rookie: Christian Watson, WR, Packers
The six wide receivers selected ahead of Watson will be catching passes from Marcus Mariota, Zach Wilson, Jameis Winston, Jared Goff, Carson Wentz and Ryan Tannehill. Watson, meanwhile, will be working with a Hall of Fame quarterback. Much has been made about the notion that Aaron Rodgers doesn’t throw enough to rookies, but he’s never had so many vacated targets to replace. Watson certainly won’t put up Davante Adams numbers, but he’ll do enough to be a valuable fantasy asset.
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