Weekly Kings: WR & TE
NFL is here! We’re in store for a big Week 1, as DraftKings has really pushed the limits of their guaranteed prizepool contests. I look forward to sharing my “Kings” with you each week; The top overall and value plays I’m considering at each position.
Before we get to that, a little background on myself. My name is Mike “Hoop2410” Petta, and I recently was able to quit my job as an accountant to pursue DFS (Daily Fantasy Sports) full-time. I’m a contributor on RotoGrinders, and ranked 24th Overall in the Grinder Rankings. My number 1 tip to you while ‘grinding’ over on DraftKings this week, would be to practice good bankroll management.
Wide Receiver
Top Play
Demaryius Thomas ($8100)
The Broncos/Colts game features the highest O/U of the week at 55. Thomas will have the best QB in all of football throwing him the ball which is definitely a huge bonus. The recent news of Wes Welker’s suspension should have Manning looking towards Thomas a few more times throughout the game. Thomas has many factors working in his favor week 1, which should result in a big stat line.
Victor Cruz ($6300)
Cruz is a player that I absolutely love to target in all DFS games. He is a target monster and also possesses the big play potential. As a Lions fan, I’m well aware of how vulnerable they are in the secondary. The combination of targets and big play potential has me looking Cruz’s way for week 1.
Value
Emmanuel Sanders ($4800)
This will most likely end up being one of the most popular plays of the week. I actually had Sanders pegged for this article prior to the Welker news. Sanders will most likely be the player that benefits the most during Welker’s absence from the team.
Riley Cooper ($4400)
This is more of a feel play than anything else. When Nick Foles took over the Eagle’s offense last season he seemed pretty locked in on targeting Cooper. This is clearly a guy that Foles feels comfortable tossing the ball to. Cooper has the big play potential and there really isn’t much risk associated with this play due to his very low price tag.
GPP
Dez Bryant ($7800)
As mentioned in DeMarco Murray’s write up, I think people will be scared off by the matchup with a tough Niner’s Defense. Vegas seems to think that Dallas will be able to put up some TD’s on this strong Defense, therefore I’m a believer as well. Bryant is a top 5 NFL receiver and has tons of talent, which leads me to believe he is closing in on becoming matchup proof. Bryant’s personal skill set makes him a great GPP play.
Tight End
Top Play
Jimmy Graham ($7200)
The gap between Jimmy Graham and next closest TE is larger than any other position in football. Any week that you feel comfortable enough with the rest of your roster and your able to fit in Graham it’s never a bad idea. He has the potential for a 10 catch, 3 TD game every time he takes the field.
Julius Thomas ($5800)
Thomas is my preferred TE on DrafKings for week 1. I love his price tag and will gladly take the $1400 discount from Graham. Much like Demaryius Thomas, Julius should see a few extra targets with the absence of Welker. Thomas emerged last year as a top 5 TE and that will not change as long as he has Peyton throwing him the pigskin.
GPP
Vernon Davis ($4800)
A lot of analysts seem to be down on Vernon Davis for this upcoming season, which may be the case, however the week 1 matchup is very appealing. Dallas had a terrible Defense last year and did not make many offseason upgrades. San Fran should move the ball with ease against this porous defense. Also, monitor the availability of WR Michael Crabtree whose name popped up on the injury report. If Crabtree is out, bump up Davis.