The Fantasy Footballers’ Early WR Rankings: 20-11
As the 2024 NFL Draft draws near, now is a critical time to begin shaping positional rankings. With a significant portion of the offseason already behind us, marked by impactful signings and trades that have reshaped the league’s landscape, the impending draft promises to further redefine team dynamics with incoming rookie talent.
In anticipation of these developments, Andy, Mike, and Jason have pooled their expertise and knowledge to kick off their initial positional rankings, starting with wide receivers. While these rankings are subject to change post-draft and as the season looms closer, establishing early assessments serves as a proactive exercise before unexpected shifts occur. In Tuesday’s episode of the podcast, the trio delved into their early 2024 WR rankings, revealing players ranked from 20-11.
Note: All statistics used are half-PPR scoring per the Ballers’ Consistency Charts found at JointheFoot.com. Additionally, these rankings do not include incoming rookies.
Want to get more info on the wide receivers? Make sure to check out the UDK+ on The Fantasy Footballers website. You can find more detailed player breakdowns, videos, and rankings.
20. DJ Moore (CHI)
Age: 26.9
Best Ball ADP: WR15
Andy: 21 | Jason: 24 | Mike: 18
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | CHI | 17 | 136 | 96 | 1364 | 8 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR6
Despite finishing as the WR6 last season, there is a sense of skepticism about DJ Moore‘s fantasy performance, wondering if it was more of a one-time success rather than a repeatable occurrence. This sentiment is largely driven by an increased competition for targets and an impending rookie quarterback about to be under center in Chicago. It is worth noting that nearly half of Moore’s fantasy production last year came from just three standout games, totaling close to 100 points. While he may have carried your team during those explosive weeks, he also had more than a few disappointing outings.
Moore is the type of player whose final fantasy ranking might make him appear very enticing, but rostering him was often a guessing game of when to start him in 2023. Despite the immense potential of Caleb Williams, who many believe is already a more polished passer than Justin Fields, he is still a rookie quarterback likely to face growing pains in his debut season. Additionally, the arrival of Keenan Allen, a proven target machine, could diminish Moore’s role as the primary receiving option on his team, leading to even more inconsistency.
Further complicating matters is the team’s overall depth, with a proven tight end in Cole Kmet and the ninth overall pick in the draft, potentially adding yet another top-tier receiving threat. Last year, Moore led his team with 136 targets, whereas his main competition in the wide receiver room, Darnell Mooney, saw only 61 targets. While Moore’s talent is undeniable and he is capable of delivering explosive performances, his inconsistency makes him particularly attractive for best ball leagues and somewhat riskier for traditional redraft formats. Although his draft cost might ultimately end up being too high for comfort, he remains an intriguing option that should not be overlooked if he falls to a more reasonable draft position.
19. Jaylen Waddle (MIA)
Age: 25.3
Best Ball ADP: WR21
Andy: 17 | Jason: 21 | Mike: 19
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | MIA | 14 | 104 | 72 | 1014 | 4 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR34
Jaylen Waddle‘s 2023 season in Miami was complex, marked by a series of injuries that hampered his performance. Following a standout season the year prior, Waddle struggled with various setbacks, which led to a drop in his fantasy ranking from WR7 in 2022 to WR34. This decline was accentuated by the presence of Tyreek Hill, who continued to overshadow him on the field. Waddle’s points per game decreased along with his total targets, continuing a trend of declining targets since his rookie year.
Despite playing only 14 games in 2023, Waddle actually saw an increase in his target share compared to the previous season. Hill remains firmly entrenched as the team’s WR1, leaving limited opportunities for others. However, given the current competition for targets outside of Hill, there is a strong likelihood that Waddle can return to his high-end WR2 form in 2024.
As stated, health appears to have been a significant factor affecting Waddle’s performance last season, suggesting that a fully healthy 2024 could lead to improved results. Waddle’s athleticism and elite speed position him as a player capable of WR1 production, though a more realistic expectation is a top-20 finish for the upcoming season.
18. Rashee Rice (KC)
Age: 23.9
Best Ball ADP: WR23
Andy: 22 | Jason: 19 | Mike: 14
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | KC | 16 | 102 | 79 | 938 | 7 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR22
These early WR rankings are subject to significant change, especially when considering the uncertainties surrounding a player like Rashee Rice‘s outlook for the 2024 season. Despite an impressive rookie campaign that saw him finish as the WR22, Rice now faces legal issues that cast some doubt on his availability for the upcoming season. During the latter part of last season, Rice emerged as a central figure in his team’s offense, forging a strong connection with Patrick Mahomes. Notably, he outperformed Travis Kelce down the stretch and seemed to establish himself as the team’s primary receiving option.
Rice possesses a unique skill set that does not align with traditional WR1 production, relying more on manufactured touches for success. This reliance on specific game plans could lead to inconsistency if opponents are able to scheme against him. It is important to note that Tyreek Hill‘s progression from 83 targets in his rookie year in Kansas City to 105 in his second season underscores the potential for significant growth in Rice’s usage, although Hill and Rice are fundamentally different players, making comparisons complex.
Setting legal concerns aside, there is a strong possibility that Rice’s target share could expand dramatically this season, akin to Hill’s experience. This potential increase in opportunities suggests that Rice could surpass his WR22 finish from last year if he remains active for most of the season. The addition of Marquise Brown and the prospect of the team drafting a first-round talent introduce some uncertainty, but Rice has already earned the trust of his quarterback and appears poised to lead the wide receiver group. As the offseason progresses, more clarity should emerge regarding Rice’s legal situation. Assuming he is available for the majority of the season, there is little reason to doubt his ability to finish within the top 20 at his position.
17. Stefon Diggs (HOU)
Age: 30.3
Best Ball ADP: WR14
Andy: 19 | Jason: 16 | Mike: 16
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | BUF | 17 | 160 | 107 | 1183 | 8 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR10
In a recent trade that shocked the world, Stefon Diggs will be suiting up for the Houston Texans in 2024. The 2023 season was a tale of two halves for the veteran receiver. He performed at his usual superstar level until Buffalo made a change at offensive coordinator, elevating Joe Brady. Following this transition, Diggs appeared visibly disgruntled and struggled to capitalize on the targets he received. This unproductive second half of the season led many to question whether age was catching up with him and if he could return to his superstar form.
His move to Houston has generated excitement among many fans, with hopes that a change of scenery and a departure from Brady’s offensive system could rejuvenate the talented receiver. Diggs will also benefit from catching passes from CJ Stroud, who recently became only the fifth rookie quarterback in NFL history to surpass 4,000 passing yards in his debut season. However, it is important to note that transitioning from a superstar like Josh Allen to Stroud should not necessarily be viewed as an upgrade.
Additionally, Diggs will be entering a more crowded offense in Houston, competing for targets alongside Nico Collins, Tank Dell, and Dalton Schultz. Diggs has consistently averaged over nine targets per game in every season with the Bills, a feat that will be challenging to replicate in Houston’s offense with multiple viable receiving options. Concerns about Diggs’ age and potential decline in target volume raise valid red flags, suggesting that he may settle into more of a WR2 role for fantasy football, as opposed to his usual WR1 status. While another stellar year remains possible, opting for a player with fewer uncertainties in their 2024 outlook might be a more enticing choice.
16. Brandon Aiyuk (SF)
Age: 26.0
Best Ball ADP: WR12
Andy: 15 | Jason: 18 | Mike: 17
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | SF | 16 | 105 | 75 | 1342 | 7 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR14
While offseason trade rumors continue to circulate, Brandon Aiyuk remains a member of the San Francisco 49ers at this point in time. Despite reportedly desiring a change of scenery, Aiyuk showcased incredible efficiency last season, marking his most productive year in the NFL with 1,342 yards on just 75 receptions. His weekly consistency was notable, though much of his success and fantasy production stemmed from deep ball plays, requiring lower volume but higher impact.
While Aiyuk’s performance was spectacular, it is also challenging to replicate such efficiency year after year, based on his current usage and role. The 49ers’ league-leading fewest passing attempts in 2023 underscore the necessity for Aiyuk to maintain exceptional efficiency to match his stellar performance. Moreover, Aiyuk benefits from playing under the guidance of one of football’s sharpest minds in Kyle Shanahan and alongside an extremely efficient quarterback in Brock Purdy.
Assuming Aiyuk remains with the 49ers, it is hard to imagine him falling out of the top 20 at the position, barring injuries. Nevertheless, there are enough uncertainties in his 2024 outlook to suggest he may finish just outside where he did the previous season. Furthermore, a change of scenery could either bolster or slightly dampen his fantasy outlook for the upcoming season. If a trade does occur, it will provide clearer insight into his fantasy value in future rankings.
15. Mike Evans (TB)
Age: 30.6
Best Ball ADP: WR18
Andy: 12 | Jason: 14 | Mike: 20
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | TB | 17 | 136 | 79 | 1255 | 13 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR5
Mike Evans more than lived up to his legendary status after Andy endorsed him as one of his 2023 “My Guys”. Despite his draft stock slipping, Evans demonstrated that he remains an elite talent in the NFL, defying the expectations associated with his advancing age. Notably, Baker Mayfield experienced a career resurgence in his inaugural season with Tampa Bay, with Evans emerging as the primary beneficiary of this revitalization.
The future Hall of Fame receiver has consistently excelled despite challenges with various quarterbacks throughout his storied career and has consistently surpassed 1,000 receiving yards while contending for the league lead in touchdown receptions. Looking ahead to 2024, little has changed in Evans’ outlook compared to 2023 aside from being another year older. Mayfield was retained by the team, and no significant competition for targets was added to the depth chart.
However, the hiring of a new offensive coordinator may pose challenges for Mayfield to replicate his standout season, although Evans has demonstrated resilience in adapting to similar circumstances in the past. The one factor even the greatest NFL players cannot defy is Father Time. Evans’ age and the potential for decline are the primary concerns for a potential downturn in 2024. Barring significant age-related decline, another WR1 finish for Evans appears well within reach.
14. Michael Pittman Jr. (IND)
Age: 26.5
Best Ball ADP: WR20
Andy: 16 | Jason: 11 | Mike: 15
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | IND | 16 | 156 | 109 | 1152 | 4 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR15
Attention all residents of Pitty City, your beloved star wide receiver is here to stay! Michael Pittman Jr. secured a massive contract this offseason that will keep him locked in with the franchise for the foreseeable future, providing him the opportunity to continue proving his worth in 2024. While the 2023 season saw successful fantasy production for Pittman, deeper analysis reveals some concerning statistics and trends.
Specifically, Pittman caught only 109 of his 156 targets last season and managed just four receiving touchdowns despite the high target volume. Nonetheless, earning 156 targets is a significant achievement, even with efficiency concerns. It is worth noting that Pittman spent most of the year catching passes from Gardner Minshew after Anthony Richardson suffered a season-ending injury. Despite his size and ability to attract targets, Pittman has historically not posted high touchdown totals, which is unlikely to change significantly with Richardson as his quarterback, given Richardson’s penchant for running.
To believe that Pittman can ascend to WR1 status, substantial confidence in Richardson as a passer would be necessary. Although the Indianapolis Colts have not added competition for targets, it is probable they will reduce passing attempts with Richardson’s dual-threat ability and a healthy Jonathan Taylor in the backfield. This means that while Pittman may retain a high target share, he will most likely be served a large slice of a smaller pie.
Ultimately, how you view Pittman’s outlook for the upcoming season may hinge more on your assessment of Anthony Richardson‘s passing abilities rather than Pittman’s own skill set. Pittman should remain a reliable WR2 given his volume and usage, with the potential to evolve into a true fantasy WR1 if his quarterback can support it.
13. Chris Olave (NO)
Age: 23.8
Best Ball ADP: WR17
Andy: 13 | Jason: 12 | Mike: 13
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | NO | 16 | 138 | 87 | 1123 | 5 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR19
The 2023 season could be characterized as a year of lost potential for Chris Olave. Despite the anticipation surrounding Derek Carr‘s arrival last season, Olave appeared to struggle at times, notably lacking chemistry with his new quarterback. While Carr demonstrated strong rapport with Rashid Shaheed and Alvin Kamara, this connection was not mirrored with Olave.
It is worth noting that Olave is one of 21 receivers who have amassed 2,000 receiving yards in their first two NFL seasons. However, the only players with fewer touchdowns than him in this group were DeAndre Hopkins and Garrett Wilson. As Olave enters his third professional season, he faces a pivotal point in his career, either breaking out as a superstar or falling victim to underutilization due to subpar quarterback play.
While Olave is poised to remain a top-20 wide receiver in the 2024 season, his ascent to being a clear fantasy WR1 hinges on significant improvement in his chemistry with Carr to increase his touchdown total. Without this vital connection, it is challenging to envision Olave making the leap to elite fantasy status.
12. Cooper Kupp (LAR)
Age: 30.8
Best Ball ADP: WR26
Andy: 11 | Jason: 15 | Mike: 9
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | LAR | 12 | 95 | 59 | 737 | 5 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR41
After years of selecting Cooper Kupp with a first-round pick, expectations have begun to shift. The 2023 season proved to be another plagued by injuries for Kupp, although he remained effective when on the field. Injuries, advancing age, and the emergence of young star Puka Nacua have fueled a narrative cautioning against drafting Kupp this season. However, it is extremely possible that these factors are being exaggerated.
Kupp’s injuries allowed Nacua to shine as the team’s WR1 in historic fashion in 2023. But would Kupp have continued his dominance last season without injuries? A healthy Kupp could command just as many targets in the upcoming season as the younger Nacua. Despite Nacua’s exciting potential, it may be premature to dismiss the receiver who has single-handedly propelled fantasy teams to championships in recent years.
While many were quick to give up on Christian McCaffrey after injury-plagued seasons, he has reclaimed his status as the most valuable asset in fantasy football. Although Kupp faces challenges in regaining his peak form, he still carries WR1 potential and represents unmatched value for fantasy teams if healthy. The risks associated with Kupp are already reflected in his draft cost. However, selecting him at his current value could yield championship-winning rewards in 2024.
11. Davante Adams (LV)
Age: 31.2
Best Ball ADP: WR11
Andy: 8 | Jason: 13 | Mike: 12
2023 Statistics:
| SEASON | TEAM | GP | TGT | REC | YDS | TD |
| 2023 | LV | 17 | 175 | 103 | 1144 | 8 |
2023 Fantasy Finish: WR11
Davante Adams stands as one of the league’s greatest wide receiver talents of all time. While he may be slowly exiting his prime and is no longer benefiting from Aaron Rodgers‘ crisp passes, Adams has demonstrated that he remains a formidable force on the field. In 2023, Adams ranked second in the NFL for targets, trailing only CeeDee Lamb. Despite catching just 103 of his 175 targets, it is worth noting that only 63% of his targets were considered catchable. Viewed from this perspective, Adams had a remarkable season given the carousel of underwhelming quarterbacks at his disposal.
Although Adams experienced ups and downs in 2023, it is appropriate to state that any wide receiver would struggle for consistency under these circumstances. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Adams is poised to continue receiving an extremely high target market share. However, significant improvement in quarterback play seems unlikely given the current options on the depth chart.
While I love Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell as much as the next guy, neither quarterback generates much excitement for creating fantasy upside for their receiving assets. Nevertheless, Adams appears to have enough left in the tank to capitalize on his high target volume and should continue to provide low-end WR1 fantasy value in the upcoming season.