Zamir White’s fantasy football value has fluctuated throughout the offseason, presenting a potential opportunity for savvy drafters. With Josh Jacobs’ departure to the Green Bay Packers, White is poised to take on a larger role in the Las Vegas Raiders’ offense. This article delves into White’s potential and why he could be a valuable asset to your fantasy team.
From Backup to Starter: Zamir White’s Opportunity
The Raiders’ backfield underwent a significant shift with Josh Jacobs leaving for Green Bay. This opened the door for Zamir White, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, to step into a starting role. While White saw limited action in his rookie season, he showed flashes of potential, rushing for 451 yards and one touchdown on 104 carries. He also contributed in the passing game with 15 receptions for 98 yards.
Zamir White, Las Vegas Raiders
Preseason Concerns and ADP Drop: A Buying Opportunity?
Despite the seemingly clear path to a starting role, White’s Average Draft Position (ADP) dropped significantly during the preseason. Concerns arose about his usage, particularly his absence on third downs and the presence of free-agent acquisition Alexander Mattison. This perceived limited role led many fantasy managers to shy away from White. However, this dip in ADP could present a valuable buying opportunity.
Why Zamir White Could Exceed Expectations
While White may not be an every-down back, he is projected to handle the majority of early-down work for the Raiders. This consistent volume, even without significant passing game involvement, can translate to valuable fantasy points. As Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report noted, finding a legitimate lead back in the later rounds of a fantasy draft is crucial. White fits this description perfectly. His defined role in a potent Raiders offense makes him a potential steal at his current ADP.
Targetting White in Your Draft: Risk vs. Reward
It’s important to acknowledge the risks associated with drafting White. His limited involvement in the passing game caps his upside. Additionally, Mattison’s presence could siphon off some valuable touches. However, the potential reward outweighs the risk at his current ADP. He offers a solid floor as a potential RB2 or flex option with the upside for more if he can carve out a larger role than anticipated.
Conclusion: Zamir White – A High-Value Target
Zamir White presents a compelling case as a high-value fantasy football target in 2024. While concerns about his usage are valid, his potential volume as the early-down back for the Raiders makes him a worthwhile gamble in the middle to later rounds of your draft. Don’t let preseason worries deter you from potentially securing a valuable asset for your fantasy team. Will White live up to the increased workload? Only time will tell, but his current ADP makes him a risk worth taking.
