Sterling Shepard: A Fantasy Football Phenom You Can't Afford to Ignore
Hey guys, let's dive into the world of fantasy football and talk about one player who's been making waves - Sterling Shepard. This New York Giant wide receiver is not just a name; he's a force to be reckoned with, and here's why you should keep an eye on him in your fantasy leagues. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and fantasy football sterling shepard.
Shepard's Rise to Fantasy Relevance
Sterling Shepard burst onto the scene in 2016, his rookie year, catching 65 passes for 882 yards and 10 touchdowns. Since then, he's consistently been a reliable target for the Giants' quarterbacks, and with the departure of Odell Beckham Jr., Sterling Shepard has stepped up as the clear WR1 in New York.
Shepard's Role in the Giants' Offense
With Beckham gone and Saquon Barkley often drawing the defense's attention, Sterling Shepard has seen an increase in targets. In 2019, he hauled in 57 receptions for 644 yards and 4 TDs, and we expect these numbers to grow in the upcoming season.
What Makes Shepard a Fantasy Football Asset?
Consistent Targets and Yards
Shepard might not be the flashiest name in fantasy football, but he's reliable. He's averaged 65.5 receptions, 840.5 yards, and 5.5 TDs over the past three seasons. These consistent numbers make him a solid WR2 or flex option in most leagues.
Red Zone Threat
Shepard might not have the size of some other WRs, but he's a threat in the red zone. His 23 red zone targets since 2017 are the 17th most among WRs, and his 11 red zone TDs are tied for the 12th most in that span.
Quarterback Situation
The Giants' QB situation has been a rollercoaster, but with Daniel Jones showing promise in his rookie year, Shepard's fantasy outlook is bright. Jones targeted Shepard 81 times in 2019, and with another year of chemistry under their belt, we expect that number to increase.
Shepard's Fantasy Football Outlook for 2020
With the Giants' offense expected to improve and Shepard's role solidified, he's a strong WR2 candidate in fantasy football. His current ADP (Average Draft Position) is around the late 6th to early 7th round, making him a steal at that point.
Draft Strategy
If you're looking to draft Sterling Shepard, consider waiting until the late 6th or early 7th round. You'll get a reliable WR2 who could potentially outperform his ADP. Plus, with the Giants' offense expected to improve, Shepard could provide consistent points throughout the season.
Final Thoughts on Sterling Shepard
Sterling Shepard might not be the flashiest name in fantasy football, but he's a reliable WR2 who could provide consistent points throughout the season. With an improved Giants' offense and a solid role in the passing game, Shepard is a player you can't afford to ignore in your fantasy football drafts.
So, there you have it, folks! Sterling Shepard is a fantasy football asset you should have on your radar. Now, go out there and draft the right players to win your leagues!