Week 3 felt like Seattle Seahawks rookie Tory Horton’s coming-out party. The 22-year-old wide receiver caught a touchdown for the second straight week and opened eyes with a highlight reel-worthy punt return touchdown against the Saints. It leaves a lot of fantasy football managers wondering if Horton is worth a priority waiver wire pickup as we head into Week 4.
Now that the highlights have your wheels turning, let’s break down whether or not Horton can turn the hype into fantasy production.
Analysis
Horton’s three touchdowns this season tie him with Tampa Bay rookie Emeka Egbuka for the most scores amongst rookie skill position players. Two have come through the air; an impressive feat since Horton has only garnered eight targets through the first three weeks. But they have been some impressive scores.
Horton’s eight targets place him third on the Seahawks behind Jaxon Smith-Njigba (29) and Cooper Kupp (15). He’s firmly established himself as the second outside receiver in three-wide sets, garnering roughly 50% of the snaps in all three games. But the problem here isn’t talent, it’s the volume.
JSN has garnered an absurd 40.2% target share through the first three weeks. He’s also reeled in 47.6% of their passing yards. Since the Seahawks have only averaged 24 passing attempts per game, as they run the ball over 50% of the time, it leaves little room for other receivers to be productive.
Kupp has turned his 15 targets into 11 catches for 136 scoreless yards. Horton does lead the team in touchdowns, but his eight targets have turned into five catches for 64 yards. As things stand, there is little chance for Horton to provide consistent value, even with a starting role.
The verdict
Horton is worth a speculative add. He has the talent to be a starting receiver and a red zone/deep threat weapon. On the off-chance that one of JSN or Kupp gets injured, Horton would immediately garner enough volume to be a viable flex option.
Don’t just look at the touchdowns and throw a ton of FAAB cash or top waiver priority on Horton. But if you have a low-upside player sitting on your bench, Horton is a good add to get more upside in your reserves.
