An underrated aspect of Dynasty fantasy football is finding hidden gems. These players can blossom into lineup mainstays or be traded for plus value later. Late rounds are where savvy owners can unearth these valuable assets. Identifying late-round dynasty gems requires research, foresight, and a keen eye for potential. Here are a few things I focus on when looking for these deep treasures.
Targeting Late-Round Picks
First, I focus on rookies, second, and third-year players. Many dynasty gems have emerged from this group for various reasons. Look for players with high college production, athletic profiles, or those in favorable situations with limited competition for playing time.
Secondly, monitor preseason performances and training camp reports. Pay attention to players who consistently shine in practice and excel in exhibition games. These players may have an advantage over others deep in the depth chart and could provide some value to your dynasty rosters.
Next, analyze depth charts and roster situations. Identify players who are just one injury away from significant playing time. These backups might not have immediate value but could become valuable contributors if the opportunity arises.
Lastly, trust your instincts and take calculated risks. Dynasty fantasy football requires a long-term perspective, so don’t be afraid to take a chance on a player with a high upside, even if they haven’t produced much yet.
The term late-round is a bit subjective, but I like to consider the bottom 30% of drafts to be “late round,” with an average startup draft being 25-30 rounds, we’re going to be looking at players you can draft in round 18 or later according to Bulletproof ADP. These are the late-round guys that I’m looking to stash in all my startups this season.
1. Puka Nacua, WR, LA Rams, ADP: 215
I’ll admit, this is a bit of a homer pick here, as fifth-round wide receivers don’t usually pan out well in the NFL. However, Puka has been the buzz of the Rams’ training camp thus far. After a college career riddled with injuries, Nacua finds himself in a promising situation in the Rams’ offense. Battling Tutu Atwell and Ben Skowronek for the WR3 position shouldn’t be too tall of a task for him. Although Atwell has blazing speed, Nacua boasts a much more helpful combination of size and athleticism. He’s much better suited for the vacated Robert Woods role the Rams have been looking to fill since last season.
2. Gus Edwards, RB, Baltimore Ravens, ADP: 247
Gus “Bus” Edwards has been a favorite target of mine this off-season. After taking a pay cut to return to Baltimore, he’s currently the favorite to be the Primary backup. Now Gus isn’t the most amazing talent, but JK Dobbins has shown an inability to be reliably healthy throughout his NFL career. Edwards averaged 4.98 yards per carry in 9 games in relief of the injured Dobbins last season. If Dobbins were to get injured again, Edwards is a prime candidate to flip for a future 2nd or 3rd from a contending team.
3. Hayden Hurst, TE, Carolina Panthers, ADP: 235
This profile isn’t usually the kind I’m looking for late in Dynasty Startups. He’s 29 years old and has never had a breakout season. Crazy enough, I think that could finally change due to the enticing situation he finds himself in. He signed a three-year deal with Carolina attached to number one overall pick Bryce Young. After putting up solid numbers in Cincinnati last season, Hurst is now in an offense severely lacking pass-catching weapons. As a safety blanket for his rookie QB, it’s easy to see him emerge as a valuable fantasy asset this year.
4. Zach Wilson, QB, New York Jets, ADP: 236
First off, I do not think Zach Wilson is a good QB. Never have, never will. However, I believe he’ll eventually get another shot at being a starter in the NFL. The Jets are a good, young team that could find themselves unable or unwilling to draft a Rookie QB when Aaron Rodgers decides to hang it up. Why wouldn’t they turn to the guy who’s been in the system and has familiarity with the team? If Sam Darnold can get multiple opportunities to start, I see no reason why Wilson wouldn’t get another. If that opportunity presents itself, use it to sell Wilson for any future 2nd and add value to your dynasty rosters.
5. Malik Davis, RB, Dallas Cowboys, ADP: 264
I would describe Davis as a reliable pass catcher out of the backfield with the vision to maximize gains. The UDFA is not a great pass blocker, and he ran a 4.71 40 time. Certainly not ideal, but somehow Davis has worked his way into the RB2 conversation in Dallas along with Deuce Vaughn. Tony Pollard is working to bounce back from a broken femur. If he suffered another setback, Davis could see significant reps this season in a high-powered Dallas offense.
In conclusion, finding late-round dynasty gems requires thorough research, monitoring preseason performances, analyzing depth charts, and trusting your instincts. All of the players I identified checked multiple boxes for me. If you follow these tips, you can increase your chances of finding those hidden treasures that elevate your team’s dynasty value.
I find true enjoyment in sharing my experience and helping others. So, I’m always more than willing to answer any fantasy football questions via Twitter @FF_Reez. Thanks for reading! #DFFArmy #AlwaysBeBuilding
