Fantasy Upside
Adam Thielen caught people’s attention in 2016 before fully breaking out in 2017 as fantasy’s ninth-highest scoring WR. His 143 targets, 91 receptions, and 1,276 yards led the Vikings, and he’ll look to continue to be a major threat with an upgraded QB in Kirk Cousins. He was also fairly consistent last year, averaging 9.6 fantasy points per game.
Fantasy Downside
Minnesota brought in Kendall Wright, who could eat into Thielen’s 143 targets, especially some of those middle-of-the-field routes. Dalvin Cook returns as well, and he has proven to be a valuable asset as a receiver. Thielen was also ineffective as a red zone threat last year, catching just five of his 17 targets, finishing with four total touchdowns.
2018 Bottom Line
If Thielen can improve in the red zone and get his touchdown numbers up, it would really make up for some of the lost production he may face as Minnesota’s offense adapts with a new playcaller. He’s proven to be a tough receiver to stop and could be even more dangerous with Cousins under center. You can expect Thielen to come off the board in about the third round of fantasy drafts.
