Fantasy Football: Top 15 Wide Receivers to Target in 2016

Dec 4, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) runs after catching a pass during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Soldier Field. Dallas won 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) runs after catching a pass during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Soldier Field. Dallas won 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) runs with the ball - Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Jeremy Maclin (19) runs with the ball – Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

Fantasy Football Wide Receivers – Number 14: Jeremy Maclin

2015 Stats: 87 REC 1,088 YDS 8 TDS

Joining Andy Reid’s offense last season, Jeremy Maclin is the clear star in Chiefs wide receiving group. Staying nimble on his feet, Maclin battled injury all last season, but only missed one game during the regular season.

The Kansas City Chiefs offense looks regrouped this year and should stand out more than the defense. With no clear number two wide receiver on the team, Maclin will get his targets down the field and in the end zone.

The biggest question surrounding Jeremy Maclin’s draft stock is Alex Smith. Smith is not known for throwing the ball deep, but has still figured out how to get Maclin the ball consistently.

Going along with targeting Maclin on third down, the coaching staff loves to design plays specifically for him. If Smith has a good game, it’s typically because of Maclin.

The most impressive thing about Maclin is his catch rate. He had a 70.2 percent catch rate last season. He dropped just one pass as well.

When Smith throws Maclin an accurate ball, look for J-Mac to come down with it. Don’t be surprised if Alex Smith throws more deep passes to Maclin this season. He trusts him and believes he will make the catch each time.

Maclin’s current average draft position is 23rd best wide receiver. He is barely going ahead of guys like Golden Tate and Eric Decker. Drafting Maclin will give you upside at this current draft rating. Don’t be afraid to take Maclin. He’ll pay off.

Next: Injury problems