X
Lost password?

Don't have an account?
Gain Access Now

X

Receive free daily analysis

NFL
NBA
NHL
NASCAR
CFB
MLB
MMA
PGA
ESPORTS
BETTING

Already have an account? Log In

X

Forgot Password


POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Draft Rankings
Draft Simulator
Enter League Settings
Value Picks
Compare Any Players
News and Alerts

Antonio Callaway - Rookie Recap / Dynasty Outlook

Phil Clark looks back at Browns wide receiver Antonio Callaway's rookie season to decide how dynasty football league owners should proceed with the WR heading into the 2019 NFL season.

Many of you have become increasingly involved with modifying your rosters in Dynasty leagues, while others have already succumbed to the temptation of highly addictive Best Ball drafts. Even if your attention has been focused solely on planning your strategy for redraft leagues, the team at RotoBaller is fully aware of your efforts. That is why we have been compiling statistics, analysis, and thoroughly researched recommendations as part of our unrelenting efforts toward helping you win your leagues in 2019.

This process includes our recaps of the production that was registered by rookie wide receivers in 2018, along with breakdowns on how that impacts their dynasty outlooks. Calvin Ridley led the first-year receivers in scoring (WR22), while D.J. Moore (WR39), and Courtland Sutton (WR49) joined Ridley inside the top 50. It was the second consecutive year in which three newcomers have accomplished that level of production (Cooper Kupp-WR24/JuJu Smith Schuster WR30/Keelan Cole WR47). However, that total remains far behind the class of 2014, when a whopping nine rookie receivers finished among the top 50 - Odell Beckham Jr. (WR9), Mike Evans (WR12), Kelvin Benjamin (WR14),  Sammy Watkins (WR24),  Jordon Matthews (WR27), Jarvis Landry (WR31), Allen Hurns (WR45), Brandin Cooks (WR49), and John Brown (WR50).

This review will focus on Antonio Callaway, who finished at WR62 in 2018, while finishing second among first-year receivers in both total snaps (766), and snap count percentage (70.2%). The number of opportunities that were earmarked for Callaway fluctuated throughout the season, as Cleveland transitioned into the Baker Mayfield era, then transformed the offense even further by elevating Freddie Kitchens to offensive coordinator midway through the year.

Editor's Note: Explore RotoBaller’s Dynasty Fantasy Football hub for year-round dynasty rankings, trade tips, rookie analysis, and long-term player outlooks. Dominate your league with our sleepers, stash targets, and dynasty draft advice. Click here for Dynasty rankings and strategy.

 

Profile

Team: Cleveland Browns
College: Florida
Height/Weight: 5'11", 200 pounds
2018 NFL Draft: Round 4, Pick 5

 

Inconsistent Target Totals = Erratic Production 

Callaway’s first professional season contained a mixture of promising performances that were blended with weeks in which his usage and output ranged from discouraging to virtually non-existent. He only played on 17% of the Browns' offensive snaps in Week 1 and failed to secure his only target during his NFL debut. However, he eventually started 11 games and performed on 75% of the Browns' offensive snaps from Weeks 2-17. There were a total of five different contents in which he failed to exceed two targets. But those games were interspersed with seven matchups in which he was targeted at least six times.

Callaway actually led first-year receivers in targets after Week 6 (39), but his unpredictable role during the remaining weeks contributed significantly to his eventual finish of fourth among rookies in that category. The inconsistent nature of his usage did not correspond to Baker Mayfield's emergence under center, as 63 of Callaway's targets were attained in Weeks 4-17 after Mayfield became Cleveland’s starting signal caller. Callaway’s 4.84 target-per-game average with Mayfield spearheading the offense also mirrored his overall 4.93 per-game average over 16 games.

However, that average dropped to 4.25 after Kitchens became the architect of Cleveland's offense prior to Week 9. Callaway's erratic usage during the latter portion of the season was exemplified by the wildly fluctuating results from Weeks 14-17, as he was targeted seven times in two different games during that sequence, but only once in each of the other two contests.

Callaway's output was also largely divergent throughout the season, as he eclipsed 50 yards in six games, and generated 79+ yards three times, while those performances intermingled with seven matchups in which he failed to exceed 22 yards. However, his 2.7 receptions-per-game average perfectly matched his average with Mayfield guiding the passing attack, as did his 37 YPG average.

It is noteworthy that even though his reception per-game average was also similar once Kitchens was concocting the game strategy (2.75), Callaway’s YPG average actually rose to 44 during that sequence. That occurred primarily because three of his four highest yardage totals of the season were assembled during that span - (Week 12/62 yards, Week 13/84 yards, Week 17/79 yards).

Amid the fluctuating output during the year, he still finished fourth among all rookies with 43 receptions, fifth in yardage (586) and was third with five touchdowns. Those receiving touchdowns also led the Browns, while his yardage total placed him third behind Jarvis Landry and David Njoku, and his reception total was fourth highest on the team.

Callaway does need to become more proficient in several critical areas, as he was credited with six drops as a rookie. He also finished in a concerning tie for 71st with a catch rate of just 54% according to Football Outsiders.

 

In-Season Changes Ignite The Offense

During his 185 snaps in 2018, Tyrod Taylor managed just two touchdowns, and 118 YPG while completing only 49.4 percent of his passes. But after a concussion sidelined the ineffective eight-year veteran in Week 3, Mayfield capitalized on his chance to bypass the mystifying collection of hurdles that were placed in his path by Hue Jackson. Mayfield transformed what had been a struggling offense into a respectable unit, particularly after Jackson and Todd Haley were jettisoned in late October.   

That elevated Kitchens into his new role, which empowered the newly anointed coordinator to implement a cluster of improvements that maximized Mayfield's chances to flourish. This included a commitment to quicker passes that neutralized the opposing pass rush, and this revamped strategic approach propelled Mayfield to a 19:8 TD to INT ratio from Weeks 9-17. That was instrumental in helping him establish a new rookie record for touchdown passes (27).

Cleveland also overcame the forgettable deficiencies early in the season by averaging 395 yards-per-game after Week 9, as the Browns eventually finished 13th in total offense (368.8 YPG). This also represented a massive improvement from 2017, when Cleveland ranked just 24th in that category (308.9 YPG).

The addition of former Tampa Bay offensive coordinator Todd Monken to Kitchen's offensive staff provides the Browns with yet another coach whose background is immersed in heavy passing schemes. This should further benefit Mayfield and the Cleveland aerial attack.

 

An Abundance Of Weaponry

The ascension of Mayfield and Kitchens has provided stability and legitimate reason for optimism. Not only is Mayfield fully capable of excelling while spearheading the Browns’ attack, but he will have a collection of dynamic weapons at his disposal. This certainly includes Callaway, but the second-year receiver will be contending with competition for targets.

Landry led the Browns in targets (149), receptions (81), and yardage (976). But his overall numbers are deceptive, as they conceal the sizable decline in his usage and output as the season progressed. He was second overall in targets and targets-per-game average after Week 8 (94/11.8), but his average plunged to 6.9 per-game during the eight games in which Kitchens was calling plays. His reception-per-game average also plummeted from 6.2 from Weeks 1-8 to 4.0 in Weeks 9-17, and his YPG average dropped from 66 to 56 during that sequence of matchups. With Mayfield dispersing his throws based upon which options are open, Landry’s weekly target totals and production should be consistent with the diminished numbers that existed later in the year. This provides the potential to benefit Callaway.

Breshad Perriman is worthy of discussion after a seemingly nondescript 340 yards included an average of 58 YPG from Weeks 14-17. The former first-round pick joined the Browns in October and was only targeted 4+ times in three contests. However, two of those matchups occurred in Weeks 16/17, and Perriman would siphon some opportunities from Callaway if the unrestricted free agent is re-signed. That also applies to restricted free agent Rashard Higgins, who finished just behind Callaway in targets (53), receptions (39), and receiving yards (572).

There is unquestioned talent at the running back position, even though the addition of Kareem Hunt has cast a layer of uncertainty over what could have been an exceptional situation for Chubb owners. But there is no concern regarding Cleveland's ability to accrue rushing yards whether that is due to Chubb and Hunt assembling yardage, or if it is the result of Chubb overwhelming opposing defenders while Hunt is unable to perform. Duke Johnson's value should largely be predicated on Hunt's status, as Johnson's touch total will be almost completely constrained whenever Hunt begins sharing touches with Chubb.

Njoku finished second on the Browns in targets (88), receptions (56), and receiving yards (639) in 2018, and will also usurp a reasonable percentage of opportunities again this season. His 5.5 targets per-game average with Mayfield as the starter matched his average during 16 games, although that dropped to 4.6 after Kitchens became the architect of Cleveland's attack.

 

Callaway's Outlook

It is plausible to expect a steady upward trajectory in the career paths of several other second-year receivers. But there is less certainty in Callaway’s ability to achieve the same progression toward top tier status. However, he does possess the physical tools to eventually become Cleveland's WR1, even if it is premature to expect his growth process to accelerate that extensively in 2019,

His target total should increase this season, even as Landry, Njoku, and the backfield weaponry collect opportunities of their own. Whether that translates to a sizable increase in yardage and receptions partially depends on Callaway’s ability to build upon his existing strengths. He already has the explosiveness to gain separation downfield. If he is able to increase his reliability through a reduction in drops and improvement in his overall efficiency, then Mayfield will be inclined to locate him with greater frequency.

It is also critical that he avoid further off-field issues since he remains in Stage One of the NFL’s substance abuse program. Marijuana charges from a 2018 incident were recently dropped, even though it is conceivable that he could receive some punishment from the league.

Still, the 22-year old Callaway presents owners with sufficient rationale to keep him on their rosters, even if the Browns add another receiver during free agency or the NFL Draft. He has enough talent to dramatically elevate his current value if he will make a sustained effort toward becoming one of the league's most proficient receivers.

More Dynasty League Strategy




POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Draft Rankings
Draft Simulator
Enter League Settings
Value Picks
Compare Any Players
News and Alerts

REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

KaVontae Turpin

Arrested on Two Charges
Cole Ragans

to Begin Throwing on Monday
Theo Johnson

Prioritizing his Health this Offseason
Andrés Giménez

Andres Gimenez Hits 10-Day Injured List
Jermaine Burton

Continues to Show Growth
NHL

Hendrix Lapierre Signs One-Year Deal with Capitals
Carson Hocevar

Should DFS Players Consider Carson Hocevar for Chicago Lineups?
Tye Kartye

Kraken Re-Sign Tye Kartye for Two Years
Ross Chastain

May be A Decent DFS Option for Chicago Lineups
Dmitri Voronkov

Signs Two-Year, $8.35 Million Extension with Blue Jackets
Ryan Preece

Should DFS Players Roster Ryan Preece at Chicago?
Austin Dillon

Is Too Great of A Risk to Add to Chicago Lineups
Zane Smith

Is A Value Play Worth Rostering At Chicago
Austin Hill

is A Favorable Value Option for Chicago DFS Lineups
Ty Dillon

Is Ty Dillon A Decent Driver to Add For NASCAR DFS At Chicago?
William Byron

Qualifying Crash Makes William Byron a Likely DFS Must-Have
Alex Bowman

Should Finish Well, but Probably Costs Too Much for Serious DFS Consideration
Joey Logano

Has Been Relatively Mediocre on Road Courses Lately
Ryan Blaney

Doesn't Really Fit Neatly into Optimal DFS Lineups
Austin Cindric

Remains an Overrated Road Racer
Brad Keselowski

Likely to Brush Past Chicago Street Course to Focus on Daytona
NASCAR

John H. Nemechek One of the Best Underdog Options After Strong Runs at Mexico City and Last Year
Cole Custer

Strong Mexico City Run and Xfinity Series Chicago Win Make Him a Solid DFS Option
Erik Jones

Likely Not Good Enough on Road Courses for DFS Consideration Despite Poor Qualifying Result
Noah Gragson

May Be Better Than Other Cheap DFS Options
Riley Herbst

Despite Decent Mexico City Run, Don't Expect Riley Herbst to Contend at Chicago
Cody Ware

Is a Road Course Veteran, but It's Rarely Helped Him in NASCAR
Shane Van Gisbergen

Shane van Gisbergen Is The Heavy Favorite to Win at Chicago Street Course
Christopher Bell

Should Be Strong Despite Practice Struggles at Chicago Street Course
Cam Ward

"Not Expecting" to be handed Starting Job
Chase Claypool

Eager to Get Back on the Field
Wyatt Langford

Activated, Playing on Saturday
Jay Huff

on the Move to Indiana
Cam Whitmore

Wizards Acquire Cam Whitmore from the Rockets
LaJohntay Wester

Stands out on Special Teams
Clarke Schmidt

Likely to Undergo Tommy John Surgery
Nolan Arenado

Scratched from Saturday's Lineup
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Starting on Saturday
Corbin Carroll

Activated from 10-Day Injured List
Cincinnati Bengals

Shemar Stewart, Bengals Continue Contract Talks, No Progress Made
Giannis Antetokounmpo

Potential Giannis Antetokounmpo Trade may not Happen Until "August, September"
Ha-Seong Kim

Removed Early During Season Debut
ARI

Christian Fischer Retires From NHL at 28
NHL

Spencer Martin Moves to Russia
WAS

Anthony Beauvillier Re-Signs With Capitals for Two Years
Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Sitting Out With Foot Issue
Isaiah Neyor

Impresses at Minicamp
Houston Rockets

Jock Landale Waived by Rockets
Bo Bichette

Back in Blue Jays Lineup
Jonas Valančiūnas

Jonas Valanciunas Considering Returning to Europe
Miles Sanders

Works With Starters During Mandatory Minicamp
Jabari Walker

Signs Two-Way Deal With Sixers
Chimere Dike

Titans Could Move Chimere Dike Inside
Keandre Lambert-Smith

KeAndre Lambert-Smith not Guaranteed Roster Spot
Anthony Bradford

Working Hard to Win Back Starting Job
Byron Young

Still Improving?
Cody Simon

Jonathan Gannon has Been Impressed With Cody Simon
SirVocea Dennis

has Impressive Offseason
Trevor Penning

Could Still Have a Role in New Orleans
Jonathan Kuminga

Warriors Decline Recent Offer for Jonathan Kuminga
Orlando Magic

Moritz Wagner, Magic Agree to One-Year Deal
Clarke Schmidt

Placed on Injured List
José Soriano

Jose Soriano Throws Gem Against Braves
Robbie Ray

Earns Ninth Win in Complete Game
T.J. Watt

Likely to Reset the Edge-Rush Market
George Springer

Blasts Two Homers, Drives in Four
James Wood

Goes Yard in Five-Hit Night
Bradley Beal

Suns Discussing Potential Buyout
Los Angeles Lakers

Jaxson Hayes Staying with the Lakers
NBA

Damian Lillard "Open" to Signing With a Team This Offseason
Max Muncy

Out at Least Six Weeks
Clarke Schmidt

Leaves Start with Forearm Tightness
Colson Montgomery

Promoted to the Major Leagues
Pittsburgh Steelers

Omar Khan, Steelers Agree to Three-Year Contract
Max Muncy

Goes on Injured List With Knee Bruise
Max Muncy

Out of Thursday's Lineup
James Wood

Joining Home Run Derby
SJ

Sharks Claim Nick Leddy Off Waivers
SJ

Sharks Sign Dmitry Orlov to Two-Year, $13 Million Contract
CAR

Nikolaj Ehlers Joins Hurricanes on Six-Year Contract
Chau Smith-Wade

Having Stellar Offseason
Ace Bailey

Inks Rookie Contract With Jazz
Divine Deablo

Could be the Quarterback of the Defense
Isaiah Rodgers

a Likely Starter for the Vikings
Boston Celtics

Josh Minott Inks Deal With Celtics
Sandro Mamukelashvili

Heading to Toronto
Jared McCain

Not on 76ers Summer League Roster
Dylan Harper

Unavailable for California Classic
COL

Brent Burns Inks One-Year Deal with Avalanche
STL

Blues Land Pius Suter on Two-Year Deal
Morgan Frost

Agrees to Two-Year Extension with Flames
WPG

Gustav Nyquist Moves to Winnipeg
Cody Glass

Devils Re-Sign Cody Glass to Two-Year Deal
PIT

Anthony Mantha Joins Penguins
Cleveland Cavaliers

Larry Nance Jr. Headed Back to Cavaliers
Eric Gordon

Remaining with 76ers
Los Angeles Lakers

Deandre Ayton Joining Lakers
Emil Heineman

Signs Two-Year Deal with Islanders
Simon Holmstrom

Re-Signs with Islanders for Two Years
UTA

Nate Schmidt Signs Three-Year Deal with Mammoth
UTA

Brandon Tanev Moves to Utah on Three-Year Contract
NJ

Evgenii Dadonov Joins Devils on One-Year Deal
BUF

Sabres Snap Up Alex Lyon on Two-Year Contract
Dallas Mavericks

Dante Exum Returning to Dallas
Jaren Jackson Jr.

Has Surgery to Repair a Turf Toe Injury
Bud Cauley

in Great Form Ahead of John Deere Classic
Christiaan Bezuidenhout

a Player to Avoid at John Deere Classic
Jake Knapp

Riding Momentum Ahead of John Deere Classic
PGA

Sungjae Im Looking for Consistency at John Deere Classic
Ryan Gerard

a Solid Option at John Deere Classic
Rickie Fowler

Looking to Rebound at John Deere Classic
Cameron Champ

a Volatile Option at John Deere Classic
Jackson Suber

Staying Below 70 is Key to Success for Jackson Suber
Kevin Roy

Playing Better Heading into John Deere Classic
Justin Lower

Hoping for Something Positive in Illinois
Ben Kohles

a Long Shot at John Deere Classic
Stephan Jaeger

Attempts to Stop Roller-Coaster Ride
Beau Hossler

Needs a Challenge in Illinois
Harry Higgs

Has Potential at John Deere Classic
Nick Dunlap

Keeps Plugging Through Tough 2025 Season
Kevin Yu

a Near Must-Play at TPC Deere Run
PGA

J.T. Poston Returns to John Deere Classic Looking for Another High Finish
Thriston Lawrence

a Decent Fit For John Deere Classic
Tom Kim

Not Finding Much to be Happy About Ahead of John Deere Classic
Si Woo Kim

is a Prohibitive Fade at John Deere Classic
Ben Griffin

is the Appropriate Favorite at TPC Deere Run
RANKINGS
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF
SP
RP

RANKINGS

QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF