DeAndre Hopkins: A Potential Sleeper in 2024 Fantasy Football Drafts

Fantasy football drafts are a strategic battlefield where managers seek value and hidden gems. One potential diamond in the rough for the 2024 season could be Tennessee Titans veteran wide receiver, DeAndre Hopkins. While seasoned players aren’t typically considered “sleepers,” Hopkins’ current draft position presents a compelling opportunity for savvy fantasy managers.

The fantasy landscape often prioritizes young, breakout candidates, leaving established veterans undervalued. DeAndre Hopkins falls into this category. With a current average draft position (ADP) of 41st among wide receivers, Hopkins is being overlooked despite demonstrating his continued prowess in 2023. This presents a significant advantage for managers willing to capitalize on the market inefficiency.

While Hopkins’ 13.2 fantasy points per game in 2023 marked a career low, a deeper analysis reveals a more nuanced picture. Jason Katz of Pro Football Network highlights that Hopkins’ statistical decline wasn’t due to diminished skill. “Hopkins was winning his routes and getting open against man coverage. He averaged 2.16 yards per route run, 18th in the league, despite being among the league leaders in uncatchable targets.” This suggests that Hopkins’ production was hampered by external factors rather than a decline in his own abilities.

The Titans’ 2024 offense presents both challenges and opportunities for Hopkins. The additions of Calvin Ridley and Tyler Boyd, along with the presence of Treylon Burks and Tony Pollard, will create increased competition for targets. However, Hopkins arguably remains the most talented receiver on the roster. Furthermore, the departure of Derrick Henry and the arrival of offensive-minded head coach Brian Callahan signal a potential shift towards a more pass-heavy attack.

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This offensive transformation could significantly benefit Hopkins. Katz notes that even with a potentially reduced target share, “Hopkins still projects to lead the Titans in volume. The overall increase in pass attempts should mostly offset the target competition.” He emphasizes that Hopkins is currently being drafted at his floor, implying significant upside potential. This makes him an attractive option for fantasy managers looking for a high-floor WR2 with the potential to outperform his ADP.

In conclusion, while the crowded Titans receiving corps presents a valid concern, the potential for increased passing volume and Hopkins’ proven ability make him a compelling sleeper candidate in 2024 fantasy football drafts. Managers willing to look beyond the surface level statistics and recognize the underlying value could find themselves rewarded with a WR1 caliber performance at a WR2 price. Drafting DeAndre Hopkins at his current ADP offers a calculated risk with a potentially substantial reward.