Fantasy Football Players in Contract Year: Who to Watch Out for in 2021
Fantasy football is all about finding players who can deliver consistent performances week in and week out. But it`s also about spotting potential breakout stars who are poised for a big season. One way to do that is by looking at players in contract years. These are players who are playing out the final year of their current deal and have extra motivation to perform at their best. Here`s a closer look at some of the top players in contract years to target in your fantasy drafts this season.
Quarterbacks:
Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys: Prescott is coming off a season-ending injury and playing on the franchise tag, so he has a lot to prove this year. He`ll be looking to put up big numbers and earn a long-term deal, which bodes well for his fantasy prospects.
Jameis Winston, New Orleans Saints: Winston is an intriguing option as he takes over for Drew Brees in New Orleans. He`s playing on a «prove it» deal, so he`ll be looking to make the most of his opportunity and put up big numbers in Sean Payton`s offense.
Running Backs:
Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings: Cook is one of the top running backs in the league and is playing on the final year of his rookie deal. He`ll be looking to put up another monster season and cash in on a big contract next offseason.
Chris Carson, Seattle Seahawks: Carson is a workhorse back for the Seahawks and is playing on a one-year deal. He`ll be looking to prove he`s capable of handling a heavy workload and earn a long-term deal either in Seattle or elsewhere.
Wide Receivers:
Allen Robinson, Chicago Bears: Robinson has been one of the most consistent receivers in the league over the past few seasons and is playing on the franchise tag this year. He`ll be looking to continue his strong play and earn a big payday next offseason.
JuJu Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh Steelers: Smith-Schuster had a down year in 2020 and is playing on a one-year deal. He`ll be looking to bounce back and prove he`s still one of the top young receivers in the game.
Tight Ends:
Hunter Henry, New England Patriots: Henry signed a one-year deal with the Patriots this offseason and will be looking to prove he`s still one of the top tight ends in the league. If he can stay healthy, he could put up big numbers in New England`s offense.
Gerald Everett, Seattle Seahawks: Everett signed a one-year deal with the Seahawks and will be looking to prove he`s capable of being a starting tight end in the league. He has shown flashes of potential in his career and could be a sneaky late-round pick in fantasy drafts.
In conclusion, while there are many factors that determine a player`s fantasy value, players in contract years have a little extra motivation to perform at their best. Keep an eye on these players throughout the season and consider targeting them in your fantasy drafts. They could be the difference-makers that lead you to a championship.