Fantasy football owners who are lamenting the loss of a Dez Bryant or the scattered production of Sammy Watkins may be looking to the free agent waiver wire for a replacement. Might I suggest Oakland Raiders wide receiver Michael Crabtree, owned in just 31.6 percent of all ESPN leagues?
"Crabtree had a terrific camp with the Raiders and played a big part in the team's victory against the Ravens (nine catches, 111 yards, one touchdown)," ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates wrote. "He should be added in all leagues. The Raiders' offense was pitiful in Week 1 but made major strides in Week 2. The next two weeks will help us size up Crabtree's true value. For now, he's a worthwhile addition."
No. 4 overall pick Amari Cooper may be the receiver that gets all the attention in Oakland. But it is Crabtree who leads the team in receptions and targets through two weeks. Following a disappointing season with the San Francisco 49ers in which he struggled with leg injuries, Crabtree signed a one-year, prove it deal with the Raiders in free agency this offseason. If last week was any indication, the 28-year-old has regained all of his former explosiveness and can be a very valuable veteran target for second-year QB Derek Carr.
If Crabtree can continue to produce, he may very well play himself into a long-term contract with the Raiders. Oakland is firmly on the Carr bandwagon and believes he can develop into a bona fide franchise quarterback. To do so, however, the Raiders will have to maintain the level of talent around him and Crabtree could be a big piece for the team going forward.
The Raiders will travel to Cleveland this weekend to play the Browns who have allowed three receiving touchdowns so far this season.
