SI Fantasy's Fabiano Labels Jets' WR2 as Sleeper Pick

Former Green Bay Packer offers late-round value in your upcoming draft

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Jul 7, 2023 4:29 PM EDT

In this story:

Garrett Wilson is getting all of the hype when it comes to New York Jets' receivers in the fantasy football conversation and rightfully so.

Wilson's ascension should not preclude fantasy managers from finding value one spot down Gang Green's depth chart.

As part of the Jets' installment in Sports Illustrated's "32 Teams in 32 Days" series, SI Fantasy's Michael Fabiano highlighted veteran receiver Allen Lazard as a "sleeper pick" for the season ahead.

The 6-foot-5 Lazard, who signed a free-agent deal with the Green & White this offseason after five years with the Green Bay Packers, was the No. 128 overall player (WR53) in Fabiano's latest Top 200 Fantasy Rankings.

From "32 Teams in 32 Days: The Jets Are Finally Legit With Aaron Rodgers":

Sleeper fantasy pick: WR Allen Lazard

Most folks in the fantasy world love Wilson in his second season, but I think Lazard could make an impact, too. After all, he has a great rapport with Rodgers from their time in Green Bay. If you’re looking for a late-round WR4 or WR5, Lazard is well worth a look.

—Michael Fabiano, SI Fantasy

After inking a four-year contract reportedly worth $44 million, Lazard likely slides into the Jets' plans as WR2.

"If you see him in person, the guy is just an enormous person. He’s got good ball skills. He’s a really good target in the red zone," said third-year head coach Robert Saleh.

Lazard, who sports an above-average catch radius, has made 14 touchdown receptions over his past 30 games.

It only helps that the former undrafted pass-catcher has experience working with quarterback Aaron Rodgers and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett.

“He [Rodgers] called for me to be in the game in a lot of heavy pressure situations and has always believed in me,” said Lazard. “As a wide receiver, the best relationship you can have is with the quarterback. The relationship I've had with him has been phenomenal."

In 2022, Lazard led all Green Bay pass-catchers in receptions (60) and receiving yards (788). Exactly 75 percent of his grabs resulted in first downs.

WR Allen Lazard runs after the catch in a 2022 game vs. the Cowboys — WR Allen Lazard
© Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Lazard's run blocking ability keeps him on the field for most of the game.

"With a guy like Allen Lazard, he’s so big, so strong, so physical," said Saleh. "Just adding him, especially with what we want to do in the run game."

Lazard played 89 percent of the Packers' offensive plays, totaling 863 snaps in 15 games at receiver.

Jets in Fabs's Fantasy Top 200

19. Garrett Wilson (WR10)

25. Breece Hall (RB10)

117. Aaron Rodgers (QB16)

128. Allen Lazard (WR53)

139. Michael Carter (RB47)

184. Tyler Conklin (TE24)

194. Mecole Hardman (WR76)

196. Zonovan Knight (RB67)