Does fourth on the depth chart at his position qualify for a sleeper? I sure hope so. A few readers may know Demetric Felton, but I doubt too many are familiar with this rookie 6th round pick out of UCLA. So let’s dive in! 

Demetric Felton (RB – CLE)

SLEEPER HISTORY

Demetric Felton’s usage at UCLA was a bit unconventional for the typical NFL running back. He entered UCLA in 2016 as a running back but was quickly converted to a wide receiver in 2018 after rushing for just 75 yards on 10 carries in 12 games the year prior. He played 12 games as a wide receiver recording just 20 receptions for 207 yards and one score. In 2019 Felton transitioned back to his original position but continued to be heavily involved in the passing game. He rushed 86 times for 331 yards and a touchdown along with 55 receptions for 594 yards and a touchdown behind Joshua Kelley. 

He took over the starting role in 2020 once Kelley departed for the NFL. He played just six games but finished with 1.9 yards per team attempt and rushed for 668 yards on 132 attempts for 5.1 yards per attempt and five touchdowns. He added 159 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Felton was very effective on special teams at UCLA, which he exhibited in Brown’s training camp where he was productive in all three phases of the game.

SLEEPER HERE AND NOW

Felton is currently fourth on the Browns depth chart behind Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and D’Ernest Johnson. So, it’s no surprise he’s posting just an 8.8% snap share through two games. That said, he’s made the most of his few opportunities. Felton caught the only two targets he’s received all season in the Week 2 matchup against Houston and took one for a 25-yard touchdown to extend the lead against the Texans. He’s averaging 25.5 yards per reception and proving to be a weapon even as the fourth option at his position. 

The rookie measures in at 5’9” 189 pounds so he certainly doesn’t profile as a typical lead running back and we shouldn’t ever expect that from him. He was used as a dual-threat back at UCLA and was even transitioned to wide receiver for a short period. He’s a skilled runner but it’s apparent he’s better utilized as a pass-catcher. According to PlayerProfiler.com, 75% of Felton’s snaps are coming out of the slot. So, the Browns clearly have an idea of how they want to use him. He has the potential to become a third-down running back with upside. Think bargain brand Nyheim Hines.

DYNASTY ANALYSIS

Felton entered the NFL at 23 years old, which sounds young to most of us but is fairly old for a rookie. Regardless, he’s proven quickly that he deserves more playing time and can impact a game with just a few opportunities. That’s going to get him more touches and more time on the field. Meaning, if he’s any good he’s going to continue to perform and stand out among the group. He has a chance of taking the third-string role from D’Ernest Johnson if he continues down this path. 

He has a long way to go before becoming fantasy-relevant. But, if he can leap Johnson, he’s an injury away from a significant role in a run-heavy offense. Even so, Kareem Hunt is only under contract through 2023. Felton could be the replacement plan for the backup role if he plays his cards right. 

Felton is likely already rostered in 12-16 team leagues. However, he may be available if you’re playing with 10 or fewer teams, which is a common occurrence, and he’s worth a stash if he’s out there. I wouldn’t mind attempting to acquire him for a third-round rookie pick if he’s already rostered. However, it’s also possible he has a quiet few weeks and you can trade for him even cheaper knowing the future could be much brighter based on circumstances alone.

Thank you for reading. If you have any thoughts or questions and would like to discuss them, you can reach out to me on Twitter @WillieBeamanDFF.

You can read previous articles in this series here:  Pharaoh Brown