Week 3 in the NFL was dominated by upsets: underdogs of 5.5 points or more on DraftKings Sportsbook went 4-0. None of these results were more impressive, or shocking than the Broncos’ 26-7 thrashing of the Buccaneers in Tampa. An offense that had put together a paltry six points at home a week prior went on the road and dominated one of the NFC’s best squads.
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix ($5,100) finally looked comfortable in the pocket, and much of the credit goes to Courtland Sutton ($5,300). The veteran wide receiver was back to his normal self on Sunday, leading the team with seven catches for 68 yards. It’s not the kind of stat line to get people really excited, but that’s alright. In fact, it’s perfect for pulling off an under-the-radar fantasy football trade.
On paper, it’s been a mixed bag for the seventh-year wideout. He’s put up modest totals of 12 catches for 132 yards, nothing to write home about. Yet, as every savvy fantasy manager knows, numbers can be deceiving. Sutton is currently ninth in the league in targets on a Broncos team with the sixth-highest wide receiver target percentage (67.9% of all throws).
Despite their big win against the Bucs, Denver’s offense is sure to have more growing pains this season. That doesn’t mean there won’t be any players worth starting. In fact, the lack of quality skill position players on the roster means Sutton is guaranteed to be Nix’s first read on almost every play. Proven fantasy producers (WR35 in PPR last season) with a clear 1A role don’t grow on trees.
Next week’s matchup against the Jets’ fearsome secondary does present a challenge, but that doesn’t mean fantasy production is impossible. A potentially pass-heavy game script for Denver (7.5-point underdogs) should have Nix slinging it early and often in New York. Head coach Sean Payton isn’t afraid to let the rookie rip; the Broncos are fourth in the league in pass attempts (113).
Those looking to acquire Sutton will have quite the decision to make this week. Buy (somewhat) high now, or wait a week and hope Denver’s offense struggles in New York. Either way, the cost should be more than affordable. Sutton is a low-end WR2/high-end flex that is not being valued as such. The upside is even higher when you consider that Nix has yet to throw a passing touchdown; red zone opportunities are sure to increase going forward.
Sutton isn’t a guaranteed league winner, but he’s a ‘boring’ name far too many are sleeping on. If you have an excess of talent at RB, TE, or QB, consider making a move before this Broncos star takes off.
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