NFL Preseason Standouts: Eric Gray, Jermaine Burton, Jordan Whittington (Fantasy Football)

As the NFL preseason has now ended, fantasy football enthusiasts eagerly dive into analyzing potential breakout stars. Identifying preseason standouts is crucial for gaining a competitive edge, as these performances can offer valuable insights into which players might deliver significant contributions during the regular season. Unlike regular-season games, preseason matchups blend established veterans and emerging talent, creating a unique landscape where hidden gems can emerge.

To effectively identify standout players, it’s essential to scrutinize performance metrics and situational factors. Look for players who exhibit impressive stats in limited playing time, especially those who make the most of their opportunities against varied defensive units. Pay close attention to player utilization patterns and coaching comments, as these can signal how a player is expected to be integrated into the team’s plans. Additionally, the quality of competition and the context of their performance-such as how they perform against starting defenses versus backups-can provide further clues about their potential impact.

Another key aspect is observing how players fit into their team’s offensive or defensive schemes. Understanding the roles and opportunities available within the team’s system can help predict which preseason stars are likely to transition smoothly into impactful regular-season roles. Keep an eye on depth chart changes, injuries and the team’s strategic adjustments, as these factors often highlight players poised to step up. By combining these observations with statistical analysis and situational awareness, fantasy managers can make informed decisions and capitalize on the hidden potential revealed during the preseason.

Fantasy Football NFL Preseason Standouts

Eric Gray (RB – NYG)

Coming into training camp and preseason action, Eric Gray was an afterthought for fantasy managers as rookie RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. was all the rage as a potential sleeper for the 2024 season. But after two preseason games, Gray compiled 138 total yards and hauled in nine receptions over that span.

He showed a decisiveness that was not there as a rookie to go along with a great burst through the line of scrimmage. With Tracy banged up during training camp, the door is open for Gray to claim a share of the backfield usage behind starter Devin Singletary. If he can show the ability to be valuable in passing down situations, Gray becomes very intriguing in PPR formats as a late-round dart throw.

Jermaine Burton (WR – CIN)

A player who was on many sleeper lists since his selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, Jermaine Burton’s flames were beginning to cool a bit with news of his spot on the depth chart being lower than what was anticipated. But his play during the preseason should be all the evidence needed for the Bengals to realize they have a talent who will be hard to keep off the field in 2024. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF) grading, Burton showed out during games with an 86.1 grade (third). He recorded 157 yards (third) on eight receptions, to go along with two touchdowns.

The highlight that won’t get many people talking is his three contested catches during the preseason, flashing the strength and athleticism he showed during his time at Alabama. Burton will be competing with Andrei Iosivas for the WR3 role with the Bengals, but with his skill set, he should be able to assume that role and become a potential WR4 for fantasy managers looking for depth.

Jordan Whittington (WR – LAR)

Another name that has seemingly come out of nowhere to make an impression is Rams rookie wide receiver Jordan Whittington. The sixth-round pick out of Texas back in April was considered a longshot to make the team heading into the rookie minicamps. But from what we have seen during the preseason, not only did Whittington easily make the team, but head coach Sean McVay has stated plans to keep him involved during the regular season.

Whittington finished the preseason with the fourth-most catches in the NFL (11), but it was his athleticism that caught the eyes of the coaching staff. With Demarcus Robinson currently holding down the WR3 role for the Rams, it’s feasible to see Whittington seeing an increase in usage as the season moves along. This makes him worthy of late-round consideration (118 overall ADP) as there could be a pathway to solid fantasy production in a Rams receiving group known to miss time due to injury.