Fantasy Football: Rookies Who Will Have Major Impact
By Chris Jones
Mike Evans, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Aug 16, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) fumbles the ball on the one-yard-line after being hit by Miami Dolphins cornerback Brent Grimes (21) in the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports
When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected Mike Evans, the massive 6’4″, 231 lb wide receiver from Texas A&M, NFL and fantasy football fans were salivating over the thought of Evans going up and coming down with touchdown passes.
Opposite Vincent Jackson, Evans will be one of the main featured receivers in Lovie Smith’s offense, and will be expected to perform right away.
As we saw throughout his impressive career at Texas A&M, Evans has the big-play ability that could turn any catch into a touchdown, which is why fantasy team owners have their eyes on Evans as their draft approaches.
In 2013, Evans averaged an astounding 20.2 yards on 69 receptions, adding 12 touchdowns to that total. He has the incredible size, speed, and strength to be a legitimate downfield threat, while also being a potential go-to guy for jump balls in the end zone.
According to ESPN, Evans is currently the 47th ranked wide receiver, and is projected to haul in 55 passes for 842 yards and three touchdowns. Those stats alone would be a solid mid to late-round selection, and Evans has the ability to greatly surpass those projected totals.