June 1, 2019

2018 was disappointing for Marquise Goodwin. He only played in 11 games and caught just 23 receptions for 396 yards and four touchdowns. While some may say the injury to Jimmy Garoppolo caused his numbers to drop, this is not really the case. Two receptions per game on average is terrible for sure. But this is also the career average for Goodwin, who has 128 receptions in 66 career games. We know the speed he has, but how does that speed translate to the field? In this case? It really doesn’t all that well. At 5’9 and 180 pounds, Goodwin is not ideal size to absorb hit as a slot or middle of the field receiver. This limits him to the outside go routes. At his size, this is not a good fit as he cannot out physical or out jump bigger defenders. This means unless he can get by them consistently, he will not produce for the 49ers or more importantly for fantasy. Groin and hamstring injuries are the death knell for a speed receiver and Goodwin has had his share. At 28 years of age and with younger better receivers on the team, it may be time to cut bait with the speedster. Deebo Samuel and Jalen Hurd were selected in the 2019 draft to add to a group which already consists of George Kittle and Dante Pettis. This is not a top group by any means, but it is young and could become solid in a few years. If the two rookies also contribute the way the team hopes and the litany of running backs provide help out of the backfield, there really is no room for Goodwin to excel. He is no better than the third option in the passing game at the positions and including the running backs is not really a top-five option. This makes drafting him a very difficult prospect in redraft leagues. In Dynasty leagues he may be somewhat more attractive, but only slightly. Overall, in all but the deepest of leagues, Goodwin should be more of an afterthought and a waiver wire option than a draftable asset. Third options can provide some value on certain teams. The 49ers and their run-heavy approach are not one of those teams. And Goodwin is not a good enough player to be someone to take that chance on.--Dominick Petrillo - RotoBaller