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Update August 31: The Cowboys are using Lamb wherever they can. The rookie wideout has looked comfortable in multiple formations. He’s gotten some punt return action and carries on sweeps, so it’s clear that Dallas wants to get the ball in his hands. Gallup and Cooper might get more targets, but Lamb will still be a major factor.
Update August 24: Mike McCarthy has called Gallup a “No. 1 wide receiver.” That could indicate that he has a leg up on Lamb following his first career 1,000-yard season. Lamb is still expected to be used on the outside, in the slot, and as a punt returner.
In this series we will look at the most important fantasy football position battles for each NFL team. Opportunity is king in fantasy, as you can’t produce fantasy statistics without getting on the field. So, the first step when looking for value plays is to project, correctly, which players will win training camp battles.
Dak Prescott had a career year with the Dallas Cowboys last season. He ranked second in passing yards (4,901) and fourth in passing touchdowns (30). He finished as the second best fantasy football quarterback thanks to his mobility and solid receiving corps, but could have even more to work with in 2020.
Dallas’ trio of Amari Cooper, Michael Gallup, and Randall Cobb was dynamic in 2019. Cooper and Gallup both eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards while Cobb notched 828. All three cracked the top 50 in standard and PPR leagues, but Cobb left to join the Houston Texans. That opens up the door for a new receiver to step in, and 2020 first-round draft pick CeeDee Lamb is just the man for the job.
Lamb was considered to be the best receiver prospect in this year’s draft in some circles but fell in Dallas’ lap at No. 17 overall. He had the potential to immediately become a go-to guy on a rebuilding team, so he should be able to challenge Gallup for WR2 status. Nearly 20 percent of his catches were touchdowns in his final two collegiate seasons. His sturdy hands could make him the most valuable rookie receiver in the NFL from a fantasy perspective.
Verdict
Cooper is undoubtedly the top dog, but Lamb has a real chance to unseat Gallup. Lamb’s ability to play in the slot or on the outside could make him a very productive rookie, but it’ll be hard for him to crack the top 20 with such a talented group around him.