Fantasy Upside
After winning the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, Golden Tate takes his act to the Motor City. In his fourth season with Seattle, he registered career-highs of 64 receptions and 898 yards. He also caught five TDs, bringing his total to a dozen over the past two seasons. A sure-handed weapon, Golden was targeted 98 times last season and had only two drops. He is delighted to be with the Lions who threw the ball a lot more than the Seahawks (634 attempts versus 420). He’s missed only one game during the past three years.
Fantasy Downside
Golden was Seattle’s punt returner last season, but should be able to pass those duties to Jeremy Ross so he can concentrate on the WR position. He had an off-season shoulder injury, but appears to be just fine now. He’s not a tall target at just 5’10”.
Bottom Line
Even though the Lions may have a more balanced attack this season, Tate’s numbers should be at least equal to what they were in ’13. With Calvin Johnson attracting the attention of opposing defenses, Golden should get plenty of 1-on-1 opportunities and should really benefit, especially with his speed. He is ranked in the low 30s for WRs, making him a high-end WR3. If he and QB Matt Stafford develop a good rapport quickly, it could be a big year for the former Notre Damer.
