RADIO
Jaylen Waddle is a 2021 fantasy football draft sleeper at wide receiver and an ADP draft value. Target Waddle as an undervalued WR in fantasy football drafts.
BALLER MOVE: Target Around ~105 Overall
CURRENT ADP: ~115
ANALYSIS: If you want a high-upside rookie, look no further than Jaylen Waddle. The Alabama product has been touted by some to be a better receiver than his Heisman-winning teammate, DeVonta Smith. Taken with the sixth overall pick, the Dolphins must love the speed and skill Waddle brings to the table. Although clearly speculation, I have a feeling that, much like Joe Burrow wanted Ja'Marr Chase, Tua Tagovailoa (Waddle's former college quarterback) pushed for Waddle (over DeVonta Smith).
Even though he was taken early in the first round, these picks are not bust-proof by any means. I could rattle off a dozen first-round WR busts with ease. However, Miami is commonly considered to be doing their rebuild the right way and I trust this organization to use Waddle in a way that maximizes his skill set and fantasy production. Will Fuller signed a one-year deal this offseason and is the perfect style of receiver for a speedy Waddle to learn behind.
Throughout the preseason Waddle continued to make his mark on his new team - the rookie thrived throughout all of training camp, especially during the absences of Will Fuller and DeVante Parker. Waddle became one of the go-to options in the passing game during team drills. His usage in the team's last preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons also hinted that the coaching staff wants to use him all over the field. He received a jet sweep which he took for 10 yards and added three receptions for 21 yards.
With the oft-injured Fuller and Parker already missing some time, Waddle could potentially be a steal in fantasy drafts if the two were to miss games in the regular season. Fuller will serve the rest of his suspension to open the season, so the 22-year-old could see a significant role in his NFL debut against the New England Patriots. If we can see Tua take a step forward this season, specifically with his downfield accuracy (24th in the league in 2020), this offense could be fantasy gold. Waddle is a great low risk, high-upside wide receiver to stash on your bench with a mid-to-late round pick in your fantasy football drafts.
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