Fantasy Upside
Golden Tate was fairly productive in his 11 games last season, averaging 4.5 receptions, 61.5 yards and 0.5 touchdowns per game. Those project to about 72 catches and 984 yards over the course of a full season, good for borderline WR2/WR3 numbers in most leagues. He’s been a consistent PPR target since taking over as a full-time player after signing in Detroit back in 2014. Tate should benefit from his second year with Daniel Jones at quarterback and from playing on a team that will often be playing from behind for the second consecutive season.
Fantasy Downside
Tate is 31 years old and is now three years removed from his last 1,000-yard season. While there are definitely circumstances that have held him back – suspension last season and a mid-season trade in 2018 – it’s very possible he’s simply on the downside of his career. Tate also plays the slot, which pushed Sterling Shepard outside more frequently last season. If the Giants decide the younger Shepard should move back to the slot to increase his efficiency, Tate could be pushed outside, where he hasn’t been featured heavily since 2016.
2020 Bottom Line
Tate’s ADP makes him a value-pick in the late-12th round of 12-team leagues. He’s currently ranked in the mid 40’s in our rankings, but he’s being drafted among rookies and boom/bust players like Robby Anderson and Jalen Reagor. Fantasy owners looking for a fairly consistent plug-and-play option should consider adding Tate as the first receiver off the bench.