CeeDee Lamb or DeVonta Smith: Who Should Be Your Fantasy Football WR1?
October 25, 2024The fantasy football draft season is upon us, and with it comes the age-old question: which wide receiver should I draft? For those lucky enough to be picking in the top 10 this year, the choice often boils down to Ceedee Lamb Or Devonta Smith. Both receivers are young, supremely talented, and poised for monster seasons. So, how do you decide? Let’s delve into a head-to-head comparison of these two fantasy football juggernauts to help you make the right call on draft day.
CeeDee Lamb: The Dallas Cowboys’ Alpha Dog
CeeDee Lamb has quickly ascended to superstar status in the NFL. As the undisputed number one receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, Lamb commands a significant target share in one of the league’s most potent offenses.
Lamb’s route-running prowess allows him to create consistent separation, making him a reliable target for Dak Prescott. In 2022, despite the presence of Amari Cooper for half the season, Lamb racked up an impressive 135 targets, 107 receptions, 1,359 receiving yards, and 9 touchdowns.
DeVonta Smith: The Eagles’ Smooth Operator
DeVonta Smith, the Philadelphia Eagles’ sleek route-runner, presents a compelling case of his own. Smith’s ability to get open with ease is arguably unmatched in the NFL today. His precise route running and knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage make him a quarterback’s dream.
Playing alongside A.J. Brown, another elite receiver, could potentially cap Smith’s target ceiling. However, Smith has proven that he can produce even with another alpha presence. In his two seasons in the league, Smith has averaged over 1,000 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, showcasing his consistency and fantasy relevance.
Head-to-Head: Breaking Down the Stats
While both receivers boast impressive resumes, a closer look at their statistics can provide valuable insights for fantasy managers.
| Category | CeeDee Lamb | DeVonta Smith |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 Receptions | 107 | 95 |
| 2022 Receiving Yards | 1,359 | 1,196 |
| 2022 Receiving Touchdowns | 9 | 7 |
| Career Targets/Game | 9.6 | 7.8 |
| Career Catch Percentage | 67.2% | 62.1% |
CeeDee Lamb’s higher targets per game and superior catch percentage suggest a higher floor in PPR leagues. His dominance in the Cowboys’ offense and proven ability to command a large target share make him a safer bet for consistent production.
DeVonta Smith, while facing stiffer competition for targets in Philadelphia, benefits from playing in a more pass-happy offense. Jalen Hurts’ development as a passer and the Eagles’ offensive scheme could lead to more scoring opportunities for Smith, potentially boosting his touchdown upside.
The Verdict: Who’s the Better Pick?
Ultimately, the decision of whether to draft CeeDee Lamb or DeVonta Smith depends on your fantasy football draft strategy and risk tolerance.
CeeDee Lamb represents the safer, higher-floor option. His established role as the alpha receiver in Dallas and his impressive statistical profile make him a strong candidate for a top-5 finish at the wide receiver position.
DeVonta Smith, on the other hand, offers a slightly higher ceiling with a tad more risk. While he may not see the same volume of targets as Lamb, his talent, big-play ability, and the explosive nature of the Eagles’ offense make him a threat to lead the league in receiving touchdowns.
Both CeeDee Lamb and DeVonta Smith are exceptional wide receivers who can be the cornerstone of your fantasy football team. The best choice for you will depend on your individual draft strategy and your assessment of their respective situations.
FAQs about CeeDee Lamb and DeVonta Smith
1. Who is more likely to have a 1,000+ yard season?
Both receivers are capable of surpassing 1,000 receiving yards. However, CeeDee Lamb’s higher target share and proven track record give him a slight edge in this category.
2. Who is the better value in PPR leagues?
CeeDee Lamb’s higher catch rate and consistent target volume make him a more valuable asset in PPR leagues.
3. Who has the higher ceiling in 2023?
DeVonta Smith’s big-play ability and the potential for increased touchdown production give him a slightly higher ceiling in 2023.
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