Unveiling the New Orleans Saints in Fantasy Football: A Deep Dive
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the magical bayou to explore the New Orleans Saints and their potential in your fantasy leagues. So grab your beads, let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and new orleans saints fantasy.
The Brees-ing Point: Drew Brees
Kicking off our Saints tour is none other than future Hall of Famer, Drew Brees. The 12-time Pro Bowler has been the heart of the Saints offense since 2006, and he's showing no signs of slowing down. In 2020, despite an injury-shortened season, Brees still managed to throw for over 2,900 yards and 20 touchdowns. With a full season ahead, Brees is a must-start QB1 in fantasy.
The Running Backs: Kamara-ing the League
The Saints' backfield is a Kamara-llion strong, led by the dynamic Alvin Kamara. This dual-threat back is a fantasy owner's dream, ranking as a top-5 RB in both standard and PPR formats in 2020. Kamara's versatility (1,688 total yards, 21 TDs in 2020) makes him a must-draft RB1.
Lambeau Leap aside, the Saints also have Latavius Murray. While he's not as involved in the passing game as Kamara, Murray's touchdown upside (10 TDs in 2020) makes him a solid handcuff and a flex option in deeper leagues.
The Wide Receivers: Thomas, Sanders, and More!
Michael Thomas: The WR1
Michael Thomas is the unquestioned WR1 in New Orleans and a top-5 fantasy wideout. Despite playing just seven games in 2020 due to injury, Thomas still managed to haul in 40 catches for 438 yards and three TDs. With a full season ahead, expect Thomas to reclaim his WR1 throne.
Emmanuel Sanders: The Veteran Threat
Emmanuel Sanders joined the Saints mid-2020 and quickly became Brees' second-favorite target. Sanders finished the season with 61 catches for 729 yards and five TDs. With Thomas' injury history, Sanders could be a fantasy steal in 2021.
The Rest of the WR Corps
Tre'Quan Smith and Marquez Callaway are the other notable WRs in New Orleans. Both showed promise in 2020, but their fantasy value depends on Thomas' health and Sanders' role in the offense.
The Tight Ends: A Tale of Two TEs
The Saints have a fascinating tight end situation. Adam Trautman is the future, while Jared Cook is the present. In 2020, Trautman showed promise (15 catches, 171 yards), while Cook led the position in TDs (5). With Brees' love for TEs, both could have fantasy value, but Trautman's upside makes him the better dynasty option.
The Defense: A Sleeper No More
The Saints' defense has been underappreciated in fantasy. In 2020, they finished as a top-10 unit, thanks to a stingy pass defense and a prolific turnover rate (18 INTs, 10 fumble recs). With a solid group of starters and a promising young core, the Saints D/ST is a legitimate fantasy option.
Draft Strategy: When to Target the Saints
- QB: Brees is a safe QB1, but he's not a top-tier option. You can wait on a QB, especially in 1QB leagues. - RB: Kamara is a top-5 pick. Murray is a solid handcuff and flex option. - WR: Thomas is a top-10 pick. Sanders is a value pick in the mid-to-late rounds. Smith and Callaway are late-round fliers. - TE: Trautman is a dynasty stash. Cook is a streaming option. - D/ST: The Saints D/ST is a legitimate option. You can wait until the late rounds.
So there you have it, folks! The New Orleans Saints are a powerhouse in fantasy football. With Brees, Kamara, Thomas, and a rising defense, the Saints have fantasy gold at every position. Now go out there and draft like a Saints fan!