Are deep threats good fantasy starters?
They can be, but they are risky. Deep threats tend to have up-and-down weeks, so many managers use them as a flex play or in best-ball leagues rather than as a locked-in starter.
Deep Threat
A deep threat is a wide receiver known for running long routes and making big plays down the field.
In fantasy football, a deep threat is a wide receiver whose main job is to stretch the defense by running go routes, post routes, and other long patterns down the sideline. These receivers may not catch a ton of passes every week, but when they do connect, the plays are often long touchdowns. A single 60-yard score can flip a fantasy matchup in a hurry.
The tradeoff with deep threats is that their production can be streaky. Because they rely on long completions, they might post a dud one week and then explode for two touchdowns the next. Quarterbacks usually only complete a small share of the deep balls they throw, so deep threats live on boom-or-bust weeks.
When you draft or start a deep threat, you are betting on the big play. They work best as a flex option or a second receiver in best-ball formats, where their long touchdowns count even if the catches come in bunches. Pairing a steady possession receiver with a deep threat can balance out your lineup's weekly scoring.
Common questions
What makes a receiver a deep threat?
Top speed, the ability to get separation on long routes, and a quarterback willing to throw deep. Good hands in traffic help too, since deep passes are harder to complete.
Related terms
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