May 13, 2016
There will be many more 2016 Fantasy Football Rankings and features in the late spring and summer, including tons of 2016 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts, Player Rankings, Sleepers and Busts. I’ll also have an extensive 2016 NFL Fantasy Football Preseason Stock Report.
2016 Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings: Re-Draft
-
Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys
Jerry Jones didn’t draft Ezekiel Elliott to stand on the sideline. Elliott will be starting in his rookie campaign, and with Dallas’ strong offensive line blocking for him, the sky is the limit. That said, everyone knows this, and Elliott will be over-drafted as a result. I’d let someone else buy into the hype.
-
Derrick Henry, RB, Titans
Derrick Henry will likely have a chance to start several games this year, given DeMarco Murray’s durability issues. However, Henry was always overrated by the public, as most teams thought he was just a second-round guy. I imagine other owners in your league will be more optimistic about Henry’s outlook, so I think I’d avoid him.
-
Will Fuller, WR, Texans
Of all the first-round rookie receivers, Will Fuller appears to be in the best situation. He’ll have Brock Osweiler throwing to him; he figures to play a lot this year; and defenses won’t be able to focus on him because of DeAndre Hopkins. It’s difficult to trust rookie wideouts, but I’d be willing to take a flier on Fuller.
-
Devontae Booker, RB, Broncos
If C.J. Anderson gets off to another slow start, the Broncos may decide to start Devontae Booker. Some believed the Utah prospect was the second-best running back in the 2016 class. Take a chance with Booker late in your draft, and it could really pay off.
-
Kenyan Drake, RB, Dolphins
Kenyan Drake could emerge as Miami’s starting running back this year, and if so, he’ll be running behind an improved offensive line featuring Laremy Tunsil. Of course, there’s a chance he won’t beat out the competition, but he appears to be a solid option in the middle rounds of 12-team formats.
-
Sterling Shepard, WR, Giants
A current sleeper, Sterling Shepard could have a large role sooner than most realize. The Giants said that they’re going to give Shepard every opportunity to become the No. 2 wideout, and that’s a real possibility, considering Victor Cruz’s status.
-
Laquon Treadwell, WR, Vikings
Laquon Treadwell figures to have a prominent role this year as a starter across from Stefon Diggs. The issue, however, is that he’ll be inconsistent, given that the Vikings are so dominant defensively that Teddy Bridgewater often doesn’t have to throw very much.
-
Corey Coleman, WR, Browns
Corey Coleman was the first receiver drafted in real life, but that may not be the case in fantasy, thanks to Cleveland’s horrid situation at quarterback. I would avoid Coleman in re-draft formats this year because you’re not going to get good value for him in your draft.
-
Michael Thomas, WR, Saints
Any Saints receiver must be considered as a fantasy option immediately. Drew Brees will be throwing a ton because his defense sucks, which could mean a big rookie campaign for Thomas. Keep in mind, however, that he’ll be the third or fourth option behind Brandin Cooks, Willie Snead and possibly Coby Fleener.
-
Tyler Boyd, WR, Bengals
Tyler Boyd is a talented player who would’ve gone higher in the draft than No. 55 overall. However, the Bengals have enjoyed success with these types of players before, and there’s a big void across from A.J. Green. Boyd should be able to win the job, but it’ll be difficult for him to be very productive right away because of Andy Dalton’s limitations.
-
C.J. Prosise, RB, Seahawks
C.J. Prosise won’t see as many carries as Thomas Rawls – barring injury, of course – but he’ll have a pass-catching role in the offense. He’s someone to watch out for in PPR leagues, though he’s just a late-round flier at this point.
-
Josh Doctson, WR, Redskins
Josh Doctson’s outlook in re-draft formats is bleak this year, given that he’ll be stuck behind DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon. However, both are free agents after 2016, so Doctson will have a big role in 2017 and beyond. He’s a much better option in dynasty formats for that reason.
-
Austin Hooper, TE, Falcons
Unlike Hunter Henry, Austin Hooper will likely be an instant starter. In fact, the Falcons have discussed using him as a major red-zone weapon this year. Hooper’s long-term outlook is also brighter, given that he’ll be with Matt Ryan longer than Hunter Henry will be paired with Philip Rivers.
-
DeAndre Washington, RB, Raiders
DeAndre Washington was just a fifth-round pick, but he could start as a rookie. The Raiders were displeased with Latavius Murray, and there aren’t any other exciting running back options on the roster. Washington could be the one late-round pick who will allow you to collect some money at the end of the year.
-
Kenneth Dixon, RB, Ravens
It’s not out of the question that Kenneth Dixon could start at some point this upcoming season. Justin Forsett isn’t the most durable player, while his backups last year weren’t very good. Dixon is worth investigating as a late-round flier.
-
Paul Perkins, RB, Giants
Rashad Jennings is the only quality runner on the Giants’ roster, and he’s injury-prone. There’s plenty of opportunity here for Paul Perkins, who could start at some point as a rookie.
-
Jordan Howard, RB, Bears
Matt Forte is gone, and Jeremy Langford was just fine (definitely not great) last year in Forte’s place, so there’s definitely an opportunity here for Jordan Howard. You could do worse in the final rounds of your re-draft league.
-
Leonte Carroo, WR, Dolphins
Leonte Carroo was Miami’s second-ranked receiver heading into the 2016 NFL Draft, and the team traded up for him. The Dolphins will give him plenty of opportunities to be part of the offense as a rookie. Still, he’s just waiver-wire fodder for now, but is worth monitoring.
-
Hunter Henry, TE, Chargers
Rookie tight ends typically aren’t big producers, but Hunter Henry is someone who must be picked up immediately if Antonio Gates sustains another injury. He’s not worth owning in the meantime, however.
-
Pharoh Cooper, WR, Rams
The Rams are starved for talent at receiver, so Pharoh Cooper might wrap up one of the starting spots and produce this year. I’ll definitely be monitoring how much he’s used with the first-string offense in the preseason.
-
Chris Moore, WR, Ravens
Fourth-round receivers typically don’t do much as rookies, but given Baltimore’s wideout situation, Chris Moore might have a shot. If Breshad Perriman can’t make it back from injury, Moore will see playing time. He’s more of a long-term spec, though.
-
Ricardo Louis, WR, Browns
Any Cleveland receiver is worth taking a shot on because of the lack of talent at the position. Ricardo Louis could start this year. However, it doesn’t matter too much because of the quarterback situation.
-
Alex Collins, RB, Seahawks
Alex Collins is currently behind Thomas Rawls and C.J. Prosise on the depth chart, but he’s worth mentioning as someone who could win the job eventually because of his talent level.
-
Tyler Ervin, RB, Texans
Tyler Ervin will battle for the right to spell Lamar Miller this season. I’m not sure I like his chances right away, but he could develop into a solid third-down back in the future.
-
Jared Goff, QB, Rams
I like Carson Wentz more of a prospect than Jared Goff, but the fact remains that Goff is likely to start Week 1. Still, he’s not a very good option, as he’ll have to adjust to a pro-style scheme, all while working with a lackluster supporting cast.
-
Braxton Miller, WR, Texans
Braxton Miller will have to fight Will Fuller and Jaelen Strong for playing time, so his immediate and future outlook is hazy. He has long-term upside, but offers very little in re-draft value.
-
Tyler Higbee, TE, Rams
Tyler Higbee has major talent, but happens to be terrible off the field. If he can get his life together, he’ll be a solid fantasy tight end option. That’s a big “if,” but he’s worth taking a chance on in dynasty formats. He’s a non-factor in re-drafts, especially given that he might be suspended.
-
Kelvin Taylor, RB, 49ers
Carlos Hyde has dealt with durability issues thus far, so the opportunity could open up for Kelvin Taylor sooner than expected. If so, perhaps Kelvin will pick up where his father – former Jaguars great Fred Taylor – left off. But probably not.
-
Demarcus Robinson, WR, Chiefs
Demarcus Robinson was deemed uncoachable at Florida, but Andy Reid has gotten the most out of troubled players before. Robinson could amount to something eventually, but it probably won’t be this year.
-
Malcolm Mitchell, WR, Patriots
The Patriots have a dubious history in terms of drafting receivers, so that’s one strike against Malcolm Mitchell. Another is that he’ll be no better than Tom Brady’s fourth target. I can’t find a third strike, but Mitchell isn’t worth a shot in re-draft formats.
-
Carson Wentz, QB, Eagles
Carson Wentz may not start until 2017, which is why I have him ranked so low. Sam Bradford has ended his holdout, so he’s the favorite to open Week 1 as the starter.
-
Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys
Dak Prescott could play this year if Tony Romo sustains another injury. His rushing ability will allow him to be a possible QB2 at the very least, so keep an eye out.
-
Nick Vannett, TE, Seahawks
Nick Vannett was chosen by the Seahawks in the third round, but before you get too excited, he’s going to focus primarily on blocking. There’s barely any value here, though I’m sure he’ll catch some touchdowns.
- Jonathan Williams, RB, Bills
- Tajae Sharpe, WR, Titans
- Moritz Bohringer, WR, Vikings
- Mike Thomas, WR, Rams
- Rashard Higgins, WR, Browns
- Wendell Smallwood, RB, Eagles
- Jordan Payton, WR, Browns
- Jerell Adams, TE, Giants
- Kolby Listenbee, WR, Bills
- Keith Marshall, RB, Redskins
- Daniel Lasco, RB, Saints
- Darius Jackson, RB, Cowboys
- Seth DeValve, WR, Browns
- Aaron Burbridge, WR, 49ers
- Cody Core, WR, Bengals
- Devin Fuller, WR, Falcons
- Keenan Reynolds, RB, Ravens
- Paxton Lynch, QB, Broncos
- Thomas Duarte, TE, Dolphins
- Trevor Davis, WR, Packers
- Tyreek Hill, WR, Chiefs
- Jakeem Grant, WR, Dolphins
- Dwayne Washington, RB, Lions
- Cardale Jones, QB, Bills
- Christian Hackenberg, QB, Jets
- Cody Kessler, QB, Browns
- Charone Peake, WR, Jets
- Kenny Lawler, WR, Seahawks
- Devin Lucien, WR, Patriots
- Daniel Braverman, WR, Bears
- Demarcus Ayers, WR, Steelers
- Zac Brooks, RB, Seahawks
- David Morgan, TE, Vikings
- Rico Gathers, TE, Cowboys
- Temarrick Hemingway, TE, Rams
- Beau Sandland, TE, Panthers
- Jeff Driskel, QB, 49ers
- Connor Cook, QB, Raiders
- Jacoby Brissett, QB, Patriots
- Brandon Allen, QB, Jaguars
- Nate Sudfeld, QB, Redskins
- Jake Rudock, QB, Lions
- Kevin Hogan, QB, Chiefs
- Brandon Doughty, QB, Dolphins
More 2016 Fantasy Football Articles:
Fantasy Football Rankings
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings:
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Quarterbacks - 9/7 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Quarterback Rankings - 8/30 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Running Backs - 9/7 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Running Back Rankings - 8/30 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Wide Receivers - 9/7 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Wide Receiver Rankings - 8/30 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Tight Ends - 9/7 (Walt)
Chet Gresham's Fantasy Football Tight End Rankings - 8/30 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Defenses - 6/15 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Rankings: Kickers - 6/15 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings - 5/13 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings: Dynasty - 5/13 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Rookie Rankings: Dynasty - 5/27 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts:
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 9/1 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft Video - 8/31 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Real Draft - 8/29 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 8/25 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: 2-QB - 8/25 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft Video - 8/24 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 8/18 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft Video - 8/13 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 8/11 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Standard - 8/4 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft Video - 8/4 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 8/2 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: PPR - 7/28 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft - 7/21 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football: MFL 10 Draft - 5/13 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheets:
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 PPR - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 2-QB - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Top 250 Touchdown League - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet: Custom - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football: Dynasty Rankings - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football PPR Rankings - 8/26 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Spreadsheets - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Articles:
2016 Fantasy Football Stock Report: Training Camp - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Mock Draft Simulator - 9/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Sleepers - 9/4 (Walt)
2016 NFL Preseason Recap, Fantasy Football Notes - 9/2 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Preseason Stock - 9/2 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Preseason Quarterback Targets - 9/2 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Waiver-Wire Targets - 8/31 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Busts - 8/31 (Walt)
Fantasy Football Auction Advice - 8/24 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Round-by-Round Strategy Guide - 8/18 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Daily Fantasy Preseason Week 2 Streaming Options - 8/18 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Draft Queue: Wide Receivers and Tight Ends - 8/17 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Draft Queue: Quarterbacks and Running Backs - 8/16 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Training Camp Notes - 8/10 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Wide Receivers to Avoid - 8/6 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Running Backs to Avoid - 8/5 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football Notes - 7/26 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Late-Round Wide Receiver Targets - 7/21 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Late-Round Running Back Targets - 7/19 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football ADP Values - 7/14 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: C.J. Anderson Profile - 7/7 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Favorite MFL Players - 6/29 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: 2016 NFL Draft Fallout: Chip Kelly - 6/23 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Marvin Jones Profile - 6/22 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Devin Funchess Profile - 6/15 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football 2-QB Draft - 6/9 (Chet)
Fantasy Football Beginner's Guide - 6/7 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football: Running Back Drafting and ADP - 6/3 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Quarterback Drafting and ADP - 6/1 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Eli Manning Profile - 5/25 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Jordan Matthews Profile - 5/24 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Rookie Dynasty Draft Wrap-up - 5/18 (Walt)
2016 Fantasy Football: 2016 NFL Draft Fallout - 5/11 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: MFL 10 Quarterback Values - 4/30 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: MFL 10 Wide Receiver Values - 4/28 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Tight End Strength of Schedule - 4/25 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Wide Receiver Strength of Schedule - 4/21 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Running Back Strength of Schedule - 4/20 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Quarterback Strength of Schedule - 4/19 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: MFL 10 - 2/19 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Sleepers: Philip Rivers - 2/16 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football: Quarterback ADP vs. Reality - 2/12 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Fallout: Marshawn Lynch Retires - 2/11 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Fallout: Calvin Johnson Retires - 2/9 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Forecast: Dynasty - 1/21 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Forecast: Tight Ends - 1/19 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Forecast: Wide Receivers - 1/14 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Forecast: Running Backs - 1/13 (Chet)
2016 Fantasy Football Forecast: Quarterbacks - 1/12 (Chet)
NFL Picks - Dec. 11
2025 NFL Mock Draft - Dec. 11
NFL Power Rankings - Dec. 9
2026 NFL Mock Draft - Nov. 29
Fantasy Football Rankings - Sept. 4
