As you gear up for the 2024 fantasy football season, the strategy doesn’t end with your first few picks. While nabbing star players early is crucial, the last round of your draft can be a goldmine for finding talent that can dramatically impact your team.
Think back to 2023—stars like Kyren Williams and Puka Nacua, who were late-round selections, turned out to be game-changers.
Let’s dive into some of this year’s hidden gems lurking outside the top 170 players, ensuring you cover all bases for a winning campaign!
Ray Davis, Buffalo Bills
Ray Davis, a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is generating buzz as he aims to secure the No. 2 running back spot behind James Cook in Buffalo. Given the Bills’ high-octane offense, Davis has the potential for significant upside. In the first two preseason NFL games, he’s shown promise, particularly in his second outing, hinting that he might just be the team’s hidden gem this season. With Latavius Murray’s departure, Davis is in a prime position to fill the goal-line role that was previously his—an advantageous spot given that Murray significantly outperformed Cook in short-yard carries last year.
Davis’s frame of 215 pounds makes him a solid option for those tough running situations, especially when you consider his impressive college stats, ranking among the top backs for yards after contact, and pass-catching ability. While Cook’s consistency is a factor, there have been whispers about his ball security challenges, opening a sliver of opportunity for Davis. Drafting him as your RB61 may just be a savvy move as you chase the potential for a breakout in Buffalo’s potent attack.
Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Another intriguing rookie to keep an eye on is Bucky Irving, the fourth-round pick who recently joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although he’s currently sitting behind Richard White on the depth chart, Irving’s potential shouldn’t be overlooked. He had an impressive collegiate career at Oregon, where he was a dual threat, showcasing his skills as both a runner and pass-catcher. In his final season, Irving amassed 56 receptions for 413 yards and two touchdowns, proving he’s more than capable in the passing game.
His stats also reveal a solid running game, ranking sixth in yards after contact per attempt and being one of the most elusive backs in his draft class. While White is the incumbent starter, his inefficiency as a rusher last year—ranking 43rd in PFF’s rushing grade—opens the door for Irving to carve out a significant role, especially if he shines during the season. With his draft position at RB59, snagging Irving could be a savvy move for fantasy players looking to capitalize on his receiving upside and potential for increased touches.
Ja’Lynn Polk, New England Patriots
Let’s shift our focus to Ja’Lynn Polk, a rookie wide receiver stepping into the mix for the New England Patriots. While the Patriots are expected to struggle this season, with a projected win total of just 4.5 games, Polk’s promising potential makes him worth considering as a late-round target. Drafted with the 37th overall pick, he’s starting the season in a key role, and with a lackluster pass-catching crew ranked last by PFF, there’s room for him to shine.
In 2023, Polk showcased his skills at Washington, racking up 69 receptions for 1,159 yards and nine touchdowns, all while sharing targets with fellow draft picks Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan. Although Demario Douglas is expected to operate primarily out of the slot, Polk could emerge as the go-to option for quarterback Mac Jones—or a potential new face if Drake Maye gets his shot later in the season. While the Patriots’ offense may be shaky, the opportunity for targets is significant, making Polk an intriguing pick as WR68. Don’t overlook the chance to snag a potential diamond in the rough.
With Polk’s potential growth in the Patriots’ restructured offense, monitoring the NFL latest line will be essential to gauge his rising fantasy value as the season unfolds.
