The Saints have plenty of issues at the wide receiver position this offseason. First, Emmanuel Sanders was released in order for the Saints to clear cap room. Next, Michael Thomas came back to the Saints facility with his ankle still bothering him, and ended up opting for surgery. Thomas isn’t likely to play until Week 7 at the best case scenario. Now, Deonte Harris faces a possible suspension due to a DUI charge. Marquez Callaway looks to be in line for significant playing time. As of now, Callaway is the number two receiver on the Saints’ depth chart. Callaway is a great option late in your fantasy football drafts.
Impressive in Camp
Callaway has been great in camp so far. In the Saints’ preseason opener against Baltimore, Callaway had three catches for 61 yards. He did that in one drive. He was up against Ravens’ starting corners Marlon Humphrey and Marcus Peters, which makes his performance more impressive. He’s been the Saints’ best receiver this offseason, especially with Tre’Quan Smith struggling with injuries.
Earned His Spot
Marquez Callaway is no stranger to hard work. Going undrafted, Callaway was eventually signed by the Saints. He only earned a spot on their roster for his great play as a gunner on the punt coverage team. He beat out Austin Carr and Juwan Johnson, who were sent back down to the practice squad. He’s continued to put in the extra effort, and is planning on staying involved in the Saints’ plans for 2021.
Opportunities for More Play time
As mentioned previously, Michael Thomas won’t be back until Week 7 (at the earliest). Deonte Harris is facing a two game suspension, and Tre’Quan Smith is dealing with an injury himself. Callaway is the WR2 on the Saints’ depth chart at the moment, and currently the WR1 in preseason with Smith out.
Callaway has shown he can play with the best. Until otherwise, he is the guy to count among Saints’ receivers to start the season. If all goes well, the Saints could reward Callaway with a permanent role in their offense in 2021.
Fantasy Football Outlook
At the moment, Callaway is going at WR79 per Sleeper’s most recent ADP. He’s being selected behind players like John Brown and Marlon Mack. You can’t go wrong with this value.
Callaway is the definition of a high upside pick. Depending if Taysom Hill or Jameis Winston starts, Callaway could provide low-end WR2 production. As of now, treat Callaway as a potential fantasy football WR3/4 on draft day Don’t rely on him to be anything more than a third option at this time, though. Callaway could be a solid flex play until Michael Thomas returns; but who knows exactly when that is.
Don’t reach to select Callaway in your fantasy football draft. But if he’s there for you at a good value, grab him. Callaway’s best potential for production will be early in the season. Selecting Callaway in your drafts could provide a great boost to your fantasy football team to start the season.
Conclusion
Marquez Callaway has earned his role this offseason. With numerous receivers out, the Saints need someone to step up. Callaway has done that so far. Look for Callaway to continue to shine during the preseason, and be a significant part of the Saints’ pass offense this season. There’s a lot to love about Marquez Callaway. Jump on the value he has late in your fantasy football drafts and reap the rewards.
