Unveiling Kaleb Johnson's Fantasy Upside: A Deep Dive into the Unpolished Gem
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Today, we're going to delve into a player who's been making waves in the NFL but is still under the radar in fantasy circles. We're talking about none other than Kaleb Johnson, the unpolished gem with immense fantasy upside. So, grab a snack, get comfortable, and let's explore why Kaleb could be your secret weapon in the upcoming season. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and kaleb jnohnson fantasy upside.
Who is Kaleb Johnson?
Before we dive into his fantasy potential, let's briefly introduce Kaleb Johnson. A 6'3", 230-pound running back out of the University of Massachusetts, Johnson was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in the seventh round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He's a physical, downhill runner with impressive strength and agility, making him a intriguing prospect in the Rams' backfield.
Why Kaleb Johnson has Fantasy Upside
Opportunity Knocks
The Rams' backfield is far from set in stone. While Darrell Henderson is currently the starter, his injury history and the Rams' desire to run a committee approach opens the door for Kaleb Johnson to carve out a significant role. In 2020, Henderson played in just nine games, and when he went down, Malcolm Brown stepped in and produced. If history repeats itself, Johnson could be the next man up.
Big-Bodied Back with Receiving Chops
Johnson's size and strength make him an ideal between-the-tackles runner, but he's also got soft hands and can contribute in the passing game. In college, he caught 48 passes for 472 yards and three touchdowns. In today's NFL, versatility is key, and Johnson's ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver gives him a leg up in the competition for touches.
Coaching and Scheme
The Rams' offense, under the tutelage of head coach Sean McVay and offensive coordinator Liam Coen, is known for its creativity and innovation. This bodes well for Johnson, as Coen has a history of getting creative with his running backs. In 2019, while coaching at the University of Louisville, Coen's backs combined for 150 receptions, 1,200 receiving yards, and 14 receiving touchdowns. If Johnson can carve out a role in this offense, the fantasy potential is undeniable.
When to Draft Kaleb Johnson
In dynasty leagues, Johnson is already starting to gain some traction. In startup drafts, he's being taken around the 10th round, which is great value for a player with his potential. In redraft leagues, he's more of a late-round flier, but one with significant upside.
The Bottom Line
Kaleb Johnson may not be a household name yet, but he's got all the tools to make an impact in the NFL and fantasy football. With a murky Rams backfield, Johnson has a clear path to touches and could emerge as a fantasy RB2 or even an RB1 by the end of the season. Keep an eye on him in training camp and the preseason, and don't be afraid to pull the trigger on him in your drafts. After all, the best fantasy championships are often won with unheralded gems like Kaleb Johnson.