2021 Fantasy Football: 5 Rookies to Target in 5 Rounds in Dynasty Drafts

5 Rookies to target in 5 Rounds in Dynasty Fantasy Football Drafts

Not everyone has time to follow along with the NCAA football season and NFL Draft. Dissecting and knowing what rookies can have an immediate impact on their teams, which rookies might take a while to develop, and which rookies you can just flat out ignore is always a challenge. All of these factors can affect their fantasy football value.

What hype train do you believe in? What rookie is the next “James Robinson” or diamond in the rough? In this article, I’ll dig into some rookies of the first five rounds in the NFL draft who I believe are worth a roster spot on your dynasty team whether for the short term, or the long ride! 

1st Round – Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers RB (Round 1, pick 24)

Round 1 is easy. The hype train around these highly coveted rookies is always easy to pick who should be on your team. I will say, it was tough to pick between Harris and Lawrence for a rookie who will have the highest immediate fantasy impact on your roster but I truly believe Harris has the opportunity to instantly become a top 10 RB in that Steelers offense.

During his time at Alabama, he averaged 6.0 YPC, totaling over 3800 rushing yards, and added over 750 receiving yards. He worked and improved his receiving abilities for his senior year, and ended with 43 receptions in 2020. Mike Tomlin is one of the few coaches who utilizes his RBs as true workhorses, and that trend will continue with Harris.

Over the last 10 years, Coach Tomlin has produced a top 10 back five times (PPR Format) Since 2011, the Steelers target their RBs in the passing game for an average of 98 times (most in the NFL during that span) Throw in the fact Najee is phenomenal in the passing game this makes him an immediate contributor to this offense. He will contribute to both the ground and air game in 2021. If you have a chance to snag him in dynasty, pull the trigger. You’re in for a fun ride!

2nd Round – Javonte Williams, Denver Broncos RB (Round 2, pick 35)

Another no-brainer. Round two has plenty of talented guys, and I was on the brink of selecting Terrace Marshall here but ultimately decided on Williams. Williams is coming off of his best season with North Carolina where he put up a monstrous 7.3 YPC, 1140 rushing yards, and 19 touchdowns.

Williams was the rookie RB1 on some experts’ draft boards, and rightfully so. It was somewhat of a surprise when he slipped to the 2nd round, but the Broncos traded up to get their future bell-cow back. Melvin Gordon played on 58% of the Broncos’ offense snaps, which I could potentially see taking a slight dip.

Javonte is a young, explosive back with early draft capital. Melvin Gordon signed a two-year deal in 2019, which will free him up after this season, and they will waste no time trying to groom their rookie to take over the position in 2022. If Gordon were to suffer any injuries this season, Javonte is instantly in the top 15 RB conversation. Expect him to be a clear top 15 back in 2022 after Gordon’s departure. Buy for “cheap” while you can!

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3rd Round – Josh Palmer, Los Angeles Chargers WR (Round 3, pick 77)

The first curveball of the day! Round three of the NFL draft was loaded with offensive talent. You had guys like Dyami Brown, Amari Rodgers, Trey Sermon, and Nico Collins. Why did I pick Palmer? Let me explain. Justin Herbert had an impressive rookie season and averaged 39.7 pass attempts per game.

The Chargers went out and improved their O-line which is going to further help and improve Herbert in 2021. Mike Williams becomes a free agent in 2022, and while the Chargers will have to decide whether to extend or let go of Williams, they will know what they are getting from Palmer after this year. Some incredible comparisons between Josh Palmer and Keenan Allen below:

Now, I’m not saying Palmer becomes the next Keenan Allen this year or next, but he’s got the chance to learn from one of the league’s best (and still in his prime) receivers. When looking at other round-three-talent, Palmer was put in the best position to succeed in the future. He’s worth the stash.

4th Round –  Amon Ra-St. Brown, Detroit Lions WR (Round 4, pick 112)

Another guy who some viewed as a round-two/three guy who slipped into the 4th round for the Lions to snag. The Lions made no attempt to draft a “true” WR1, and did not sign any big names in the 2021 offseason so St. Brown is in a position to make an immediate impact.

It’s worth noting that his senior year, St. Brown lined up in the slot 70% of the time, which is Goff’s favorite target on the field (slot receiver). His competition in Detroit isn’t exactly elite… He’s competing with guys like Quintez Cephus, Tyrell Williams, and Breshad Perriman. If you’re looking for a rookie who could be a potential boom or bust, look no further.

5th Round  – Noah Gray, Kansas City Chiefs TE (Round 5, pick 162)

Remember, I am going into dynasty outlooks here and this could be one of the best. In the 5th round, the Kansas City Chiefs selected Noah Gray who has looked outstanding in training camp and OTA’s. Kansas City has not leaned on two TE’s sets too often, however, Andy Reid has expressed his interest in changing that. He didn’t put up a prolific receiving stat line in college but he’s got the athleticism and ability to run some complex routes. Not to mention… He can learn from the absolute best in Travis Kelce.

The first look at the depth chart revealed Gray as the TE2, which should be a clear indicator as to what Reid thinks of him. If Kelce were to miss time (which he is out currently battling some back issues) Gray has stepped in as the TE1. Don’t hesitate, don’t think about it, get Gray everywhere you can.

Did you like this piece? Agree? Disagree? Drop me a line and let me know @LobosFFden and go ahead and follow for more fantasy football nuggets & all things NFL-related.