Fantasy Upside
Even though he only caught 17 passes for 226 yards in 2013, it was clear to keen observers that Bailey had as much potential among the Rams' receivers as any player on the roster. Granted, things have changed since he was suspended for the first four games of the regular season due to violating the league's policy on PEDs, but his upside remains high. He hasn't lost the confidence of the coaching staff either, as he continues to rotate in with the starters during camp. Unless Brian Quick steps up and grabs the starting job opposite Kenny Britt during Bailey's suspension, then Bailey could be a nice late-round flier or waiver wire pickup. Along with Britt, Bailey runs the best routes of anyone in the Rams' receiving corps and has shown to have great hands.
Fantasy Downside
Bailey remains in the mix during training camp and preseason but what happens when he's a cast off for the first four weeks of the season? The NFL remains a what-have-you-done-for-me-lately league and Bailey could quickly be forgotten if Quick continues to impress in practice and preseason. (Fortunately for Bailey, Quick has been nothing but a tease for coaches and fantasy owners alike in his first three seasons.) Two other things to consider about Bailey: The Rams will be a run-heavy offense in 2014 and Britt has emerged as the team's No. 1 for the time being. How many targets will be left for Bailey after OC Brian Schottenheimer gets the running backs, Britt, Tavon Austin and Jared Cook involved? Despite his talent, Bailey could be limited from a fantasy standpoint.
Bottom Line
Due to his four-game suspension to start the season, Bailey is likely to go undrafted in your leagues. If he does, keep an eye on him a week or two before he's activated because he will have a role in the Rams' offense. Keep in mind that Britt has been injury prone and Quick is a massive wildcard, so Bailey could emerge as the team's WR1 at some point during the year. That may only translate to a WR3 in fantasy circles, but he's likely to have more upside than most receivers that you'll find on your waiver wire.
