Fantasy Football: 14 Under-the-Radar Rookies to Target in 2017
Curtis Samuel, WR, Carolina Panthers
After a disappointing 2016 season, particularly from an offensive standpoint, the Carolina Panthers spent their first two picks of the 2017 NFL Draft on high-profile offensive weapons. While running back Christian McCaffrey is getting all the pub, second-round pick Curtis Samuel is flying under the radar in fantasy circles. Currently being drafted 203rd overall (WR71) in standard leagues, per FantasyPros.com, Samuel has the chance to provide a significant return on a minimal investment.
At Ohio State, Samuel was deployed all over the field, as both a running back and a receiver. As one of the most dynamic playmakers in all of college football in 2016, he used his speed (4.31 40-yard dash) to help rack up 1,636 yards (on 171 touches) and 15 touchdowns.
The Panthers' plan to employ more quick passes and check down plays this season is perfect for Samuel's game. Lining up in the slot or the backfield (and opposite, or alongside, McCaffrey), Samuel can cause matchup nightmares for opposing defenses.
In a best-case scenario, Samuel could be the kind of all-over-the-field threat that Tyreek Hill was as a rookie for Kansas City last year, or that Percy Harvin was in his first year for the Vikings in 2009 -- and a significant contributor to your fantasy team for a bare bones price. —Dale Redman
