Fantasy football is all about finding value in unexpected places, and nothing embodies this more than uncovering sleeper picks. These are the players flying under the radar, often overlooked or undervalued, but with the potential to significantly outperform their draft position. For the 2024 fantasy football season, identifying these hidden gems can be the difference between a good team and a championship-winning squad. Here’s a look at some of the top sleepers for the 2024 season.
Contents
1. Jahan Dotson, WR, Washington Commanders2. Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens3. Zach Charbonnet, RB, Seattle Seahawks4. Jordan Love, QB, Green Bay Packers5. Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints6. Rachaad White, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers7. Skyy Moore, WR, Kansas City ChiefsConclusion
1. Jahan Dotson, WR, Washington Commanders
Jahan Dotson may not be a household name yet, but he’s poised for a breakout season in 2024. With Terry McLaurin drawing most of the defensive attention, Dotson has a prime opportunity to become a key target in the Washington offense. His route-running skills and ability to make contested catches make him a perfect candidate for a breakout season, especially in PPR (points per reception) leagues.
Dotson’s strong finish to the 2023 season and impressive chemistry with quarterback Sam Howell suggest he could emerge as a reliable WR2 or even a low-end WR1 in fantasy this year. Don’t be surprised if Dotson is one of the most talked-about players by the end of the season.
2. Rashod Bateman, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Rashod Bateman’s 2023 season was plagued by injuries, which has left many fantasy managers hesitant to draft him in 2024. However, this could be the perfect opportunity to grab a potential star at a discounted price. Bateman has all the tools to be a top-tier receiver: speed, size, and excellent hands. With the Ravens’ offense expected to be more pass-heavy this season under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Bateman could see a significant uptick in targets.
Lamar Jackson is still one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league, and with Bateman healthy and ready to go, he could become Jackson’s favorite target. If Bateman can stay on the field, he has the potential to be a league-winning pick for fantasy managers.
3. Zach Charbonnet, RB, Seattle Seahawks
Rookie running backs are often hit or miss, but Zach Charbonnet is in a unique position to succeed right out of the gate. The Seahawks are known for their run-first approach, and Charbonnet has the skill set to thrive in this system. While Kenneth Walker III is the presumed starter, Charbonnet’s versatility as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield could lead to significant touches.
Charbonnet’s power running style is a perfect complement to Walker’s speed, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Seahawks employ a 1-2 punch similar to what the Cleveland Browns have with Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt. Given his potential to earn goal-line carries and catches in the passing game, Charbonnet is a sleeper with RB2 upside.
4. Jordan Love, QB, Green Bay Packers
With Aaron Rodgers now in New York, the Green Bay Packers are officially Jordan Love’s team. The former first-round pick has had a few years to learn behind Rodgers, and 2024 will be his first full season as the starter. Love’s strong arm and ability to extend plays with his legs make him an intriguing fantasy option, particularly in two-quarterback leagues.
The Packers still have a solid supporting cast with Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon, and a promising young receiving corps led by Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs. If Love can capitalize on the opportunities in front of him, he could easily outperform his draft position and become a valuable fantasy asset.
5. Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints
Tight end is often a challenging position to fill in fantasy football, but Juwan Johnson could be the answer for those looking to strike gold late in drafts. Johnson had a quiet 2023 season, but with Derek Carr now under center in New Orleans, there’s reason to believe Johnson could be in for a breakout year.
Carr has a history of leaning on his tight ends in the red zone, and Johnson’s size and athleticism make him a prime candidate for increased targets and touchdowns. With Michael Thomas’ health still a question mark, Johnson could emerge as one of the top receiving options in the Saints’ offense, making him a high-upside sleeper at a position of need.
6. Rachaad White, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Rachaad White is a name that’s been buzzing in fantasy circles, and for a good reason. The Buccaneers’ backfield is wide open after the departure of Leonard Fournette, and White is the most likely candidate to take over as the lead back. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds to his fantasy appeal, particularly in PPR leagues.
The Buccaneers may not be the powerhouse they were with Tom Brady, but White’s volume alone makes him a valuable fantasy asset. He could be a weekly RB2 with the upside for more if he can secure a three-down role.
7. Skyy Moore, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Playing in an offense led by Patrick Mahomes automatically gives any wide receiver upside, and Skyy Moore could be the next breakout star in Kansas City. With JuJu Smith-Schuster now in New England, Moore has a clear path to significant playing time in one of the league’s most explosive offenses.
Moore’s speed and ability to create separation make him an ideal fit for the Chiefs’ high-powered passing attack. If he can build a strong rapport with Mahomes, Moore could quickly become a fantasy darling and one of the biggest sleepers of 2024.
Conclusion
Identifying sleepers is one of the most exciting and rewarding aspects of fantasy football. The 2024 season offers plenty of opportunities to find value in players who might be overlooked by others in your league. Whether it’s a young receiver ready to break out, a running back in a favorable situation, or a quarterback with something to prove, these sleepers have the potential to help you dominate your fantasy league. As always, stay informed, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to take a chance on these under-the-radar players.