While everyone knew Martavis Bryant was clearly the Pittsburgh Steelers second best receiver, Ben Roethlisberger and the coaching staff strongly indicated it was Markus Wheaton's job. Now we may finally know why after Adam Schefter announced Bryant faces a four-game suspension.
Bryant was a favorite fantasy sleeper of many before the preseason, seeing his size-speed combination on a passing team and the possibilities of a top-25 season. Reports about Roethlisberger loving Wheaton were odd given Bryant's ability to stretch the field for big plays and be a dynamic weapon in the red zone.
While Bryant is out, the Steelers will use Wheaton in the slot and allow someone else to step in on the outside opposite Antonio Brown. The man to fill that role will be Darrius Heyward-Bey, a receiver who can stretch the field but can't catch the football. Needless to say, DHB should not be on anyone's fantasy radar.
Pittsburgh will be hurting early in the regular season. Le'Veon Bell will serve a two-game suspension, Bryant now has a four-game suspension and All-Pro center Maurkice Pouncey is out for at least the first 10 weeks. The Steelers will be throwing often to start the season. It opens the door for Wheaton to have a prominent role, perhaps serving as an excellent DFS option to open the season and a low-tier WR2 in 14-team leagues.