Diontae Johnson Fantasy Outlook: Andy Dalton Impact
Diontae Johnson entered the 2023 season with an intriguing fantasy outlook. The wide receiver has proven himself as a reliable target in the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense, but his production has been somewhat inconsistent in recent years. The arrival of Andy Dalton as the starting quarterback raises important questions for Johnson's fantasy value.
Dalton's History:
Andy Dalton has a long and storied career in the NFL, known for his steady play and ability to manage a game. He's not a gunslinger like some quarterbacks, but he consistently delivers accurate passes and is a proven veteran. However, Dalton has not been known for his high-volume passing game.
Potential Impact on Diontae Johnson:
Here's where the potential impact on Diontae Johnson's fantasy value comes in:
- Target Share: Dalton's preference for shorter, intermediate passes could lead to fewer deep targets for Johnson, who thrived on those in the past. This could potentially lower his fantasy ceiling.
- Red Zone Targets: Dalton has a history of being accurate in the red zone. This could benefit Johnson, as he has a strong track record as a red zone threat. However, it's important to note that Dalton's red zone targets are often spread out amongst various receivers.
- Overall Production: Dalton's arrival might not drastically change Johnson's overall production. He remains a talented receiver with strong route-running abilities and a rapport with the Pittsburgh Steelers' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Diontae Johnson is still a solid WR2 or flex option in fantasy football. He has proven his worth as a reliable receiver in the NFL. However, his fantasy ceiling might be slightly lower with Dalton at the helm. He's not the big-play threat he was with a quarterback like Kenny Pickett who can deliver the ball downfield.
Key Factors:
- Chemistry with Dalton: How quickly Johnson and Dalton establish a rapport could significantly impact Johnson's fantasy value.
- Competition for Targets: The emergence of other young receivers like George Pickens and Calvin Austin III could eat into Johnson's target share.
Overall:
Diontae Johnson remains a valuable fantasy asset, but the impact of Andy Dalton is a factor to consider. While he might not be the high-ceiling WR1 he once was, his floor is still very high. Owners can expect consistent production, but big games might be less frequent. It's important to monitor his target share and red zone usage early in the season to gauge his true fantasy value.
