The 2014 season produced many fantasy super-stars in 2014. However, some of last year's rookies are just getting started on their road to fantasy stardom moving ahead. Here are five second-season fantasy players who should break out and reward many more fantasy points than last season.
1. Derek Carr, Quarterback, Oakland Raiders
Given the weak supporting cast Carr had to work with last year, he still managed to rank 20th in quarterback fantasy football points. Now that Carr is broken-in he should benefit greatly due to the addition of wide receiver Michael Crabtree along with any other receivers the Raiders target in this week’s draft. Tight end Mychal Rivera who connected with Carr on four touchdowns all scored within the last half of last season also provides a deep threat in the red zone.
In 2015, we could easily see Carr boost his 3,270 passing yards from last season with his improved receiving unit. If he can score a few more touchdowns than his 21 and throw a couple less than his 12 picks from 2014, Carr will work his way up in ranking for 2015. Draft him as a lower end QB2 or a handy backup who will bring upside to your fantasy team.
2. Jarvis Landry, Wide Receiver, Miami Dolphins
Landry was the second-highest targeted receiver by Ryan Tannehill last season. However, Landry turned 112 targets into 84 catches versus former wideout Mike Wallace’s 115 targets for 67 catches. With Wallace out of the way, Landry will catch Tannehill’s eye more than ever in 2015.
Especially valuable in points per reception (PPR) leagues, Landry will rack up the fantasy points by sheer volume alone and he should score more than the five touchdowns we saw last season. Landry will have no problem attaining decent flex fantasy points in 2015. He should be drafted as trusty WR3 who will not disappoint.
3. Jordan Matthews, Wide Receiver, Philadelphia Eagles
With head coach Chip Kelly disposing of his No. 1 wideouts like last week’s garbage, Matthews looks to fill the duties of the slot role along with other outside line positioning. Gone are DeSean Jackson from 2013 and Jeremy Maclin from last season leaving Matthews a larger role.
Whoever is quarterbacking for the Eagles needs someone to throw to and Matthews will be that guy for much of the plays. Last season had Matthews totaling 872 yards from only 67 catches, and scoring eight touchdowns along the way. He should move up the draft board as a reliable WR2 to target in 2015 fantasy drafts.
4. Devonta Freeman, Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
With veteran running back Steven Jackson finally moving on, Freeman looks to be the No. 1 guy to tote the ball in 2015. When given the opportunity to showcase his ground moves in his rookie year, Freeman totaled 248 yards while averaging 3.8 yards per carry. Freeman is also well versed in catching as he racked up 225 yards on 30 receptions.
The Falcons will remain a pass-heavy team, however, Freeman will have his chances to be the workhorse the team has desperately needed for the past couple of seasons. Likely to fall to mid-draft rounds, Freeman should be picked up as an RB3 would could reward more than his investment later on in the 2015 season.
5. Carlos Hyde, Running Back, San Francisco 49ers
Hyde did not have much of an opportunity to display his talents with former running back Frank Gore serving as the team’s lead rusher. However, Hyde looks to be the back who will eventually run the show for the 49ers. The only guys that stand in his path are an embattled Reggie Bush and Kendall Hunter who missed all of last season.
Hyde maintained an average of 4.0 yards per carry on the 83 touches he received in 2014. San Francisco blends a nice recipe between passing the ball and running the ball in their offensive scheme. Hyde should make a serviceable RB2 once the 2015 fantasy season gets rolling.