Zay Flowers is ready for an encore after his record-setting rookie season. He's the unquestioned No. 1 wide receiver for reigning MVP Lamar Jackson and could be an X-factor in the fantasy world.
Here's what to know about Flowers ahead of your fantasy football draft:
Last Year's Production
2023 Stats: 77 receptions, 858 receiving yards, 5 receiving TDs, 8 carries, 56 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 206.4 PPR fantasy points, WR31 (ESPN)
Flowers set franchise rookie records in receptions and receiving yards, finishing as WR31 last year. The first-round pick was a hit right away and got stronger as the season went on, including a 106-yard, one touchdown performance in Week 17, which was championship week in most fantasy leagues.
Projected Role/Production
ESPN: 78 receptions, 971 receiving yards, 6 receiving TDs, 9 carries, 55 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD, 216.3 PPR fantasy points (WR26)
Flowers will be a focal point in Year 2 of Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken's system. With Odell Beckham Jr. in Miami and no significant additions this offseason, Flowers is the undisputed top dog in Baltimore's receiver room.
Jackson trusted Flowers early in 2023 and that chemistry grew as the season progressed and into the offseason. More comfortable as a pro, Flowers could be in store for a big second season, especially with defenses having to focus on players such as running back Derrick Henry and tight end Mark Andrews.
Why He Could Outperform ADP
According to an average of major fantasy football websites, Flowers' average draft position (ADP) is 61, which is the beginning of the fifth round in a 12-team league. He has the 28th highest ADP amongst wide receivers.
Flowers could solidify himself as a no-doubt starter for fantasy owners by the time the playoffs come around, in part because of his big-play potential. Flowers said this offseason that he's focusing on becoming more of a deep threat after averaging 11.1 yards per receptions last season. If Flowers can sprinkle in a handful of long catches or touchdowns, that could make him a top-20 fantasy receiver.
Potential Roadblocks
Baltimore's offense has two elite run threats in Jackson and Henry, and Andrews, Isaiah Likely, and Rashod Bateman will be big parts of the offense as well. Flowers could still have a stellar season but not have massive numbers because of all the other standouts on the Ravens' roster.
