If you load up on running backs early, wide receiver becomes all about finding value.
The good news is this year’s receiver pool is deep enough to make that strategy work. The key is identifying players who have a better opportunity than their ADP suggests, whether that’s because of a larger role, vacated targets, a healthier season or a favorable landing spot.
Here’s my full list of wide receivers to target after an RB-heavy start, broken down by where you can expect to draft them.
If you’re into the numbers, don’t miss Aaron Schatz’s FTN Football Almanac and our FTN Stats & Charting research tool for next-level insights. And check out my Process for my entire blueprint for draft-day success.
Middle Rounds (6–10)
Don’t get too caught up in the round designation here. Some of these receivers won’t make it this far if your league is sharp.
The bigger point is that this is where I want to start swinging for upside. I’m looking for receivers who have a realistic path to outperforming their ADP because of a bigger role, more opportunity, a coaching change, or better health. If one of these guys is still on the board when you’re in this range, don’t be afraid to pull the trigger.
Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
Odunze looked like he was on the verge of a breakout before a foot injury derailed his season around Week 9. Through his first eight games, he commanded a 23.9% target share, ranked inside the top 20 in yards per route run, and was on a WR10 pace. Now he’s fully healthy, DJ Moore‘s departure leaves roughly five targets per game up for grabs, and Odunze steps into the X receiver role in Ben Johnson’s offense. Best of all, he’s still going a full round after teammate Luther Burden III despite offering the higher weekly ceiling.
