Factors That Make Greg Dortch a Fantasy Football Sleeper for the 2024 Season

By Jason Bolton August 17, 2024 09:48

Photo by Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY

With the 2024 season still a bit away, fantasy football fans are always looking for players who could be potential sleeper picks and allow them to get great value in their drafts. The name that has stood out to me most as an option is Arizona Cardinals WR Greg Dortch. The article looks at why Dortch is considered to be perhaps not only one of these sleeper candidates but also in general for this upcoming season, diving into his background, performance analytics, and how he could find opportunities on-field.

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Background on Greg Dortch

High School and College Career Stats

Dortch started on the gridiron at Wake Forest University, where he stood out from his first game as a dynamic wide receiver. He posted solid college stats, including season 89 receptions for 1,078 yards with eight touchdowns. Despite the success, Dortch went undrafted in 2019 and signed a post-draft deal with the New York Jets. He spent some time doing what most late-round picks have to do, going from team to team and a few practice squad stints on the Packers and Cowboys, but eventually found himself in Arizona and has stayed here since.

Statistics with the Arizona Cardinals

Dortch signed on with the Cardinals in 2021 and has slowly expanded his role within their offense. He showed promise in 2023, posting 24 catches for 280 yards and two scores last season. And despite the Cardinals going through big changes at receiver in 2024 for starters, DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown are no longer on the roster, and Dortch is set to become even more of a staple for this Stephen Mitchell offense.

Why He Could Be A Fantasy Football Sleeper

Dortch's role and target share ticked up consistently over the 2023 season. Over his final seven games, he caught 23 of those receptions for 278 yards, a notable production if given the opportunity. This says something, given that Murray had games where he was clearly playing at less than 100%. This is good news for Dortch, who probably has more targets heading his way in 2024 with an offense that would be totally restructured.

Reason for More Time on The Field

Dortch is in line to benefit as their depth chart is more influx than ever. And with the team probably drafting an elite wide receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr. and unknowns like James Proche, Miles Boykin, and Tylan Wallace behind him, Dortch is in line to get more reps elsewhere on Sundays. He could become a primary target in important situations, given his experience and relationship with Murray. Dortch, who is still available as a UDFA after failing to make the Jets' initial 53-man roster, might have a leg up over new guys with his experience with Arizona's offense.

Performance Summary and Metrics

Dortch is even more of a sleeper if we go by some advanced metrics. With outsized yards per route run and catch rate, he can capitalize on whatever handouts come his way. In 2023, he posted a catcher rate of 72%, way over the league average. His efficiency tells us they are highly likely to turn into chunk-yardage gains or touchdowns when directed at him. Furthermore, he is averaging depths beyond the first down line of scrimmage and can get plays happening upfield.

Comparisons to Other Sleepers

Dortch's rare blend of experience with an opportunity separates him from other possible sleeper candidates. Rondale Moore and Michael Wilson might be named to watch for targets, but Dortch's history in the Cardinals' offense makes him a slight favorite. Able to work extremely well in the slot and make plays after the catch, his shifty ability separates him from other receivers who may not be quite as trusted by both coaches and quarterbacks.

2024 Outlook And Projections

Projected Fantasy Stats

Projection: 38 receptions, 387 yards, 2-3 TDs. That projection places him as a WR5, which makes for solid depth play in your lineup. The latter increases his value as a late-round pick due to the added receptions he can accumulate in PPR leagues.

Fantasy Leagues and Draft Value

At an ADP of around #253, Dortch is a low-risk, high-reward play, should you choose to target him in the latter stages of fantasy drafts. If he wins a major role in the Cardinals' offense, waiting till Round 14 or later could offer big returns. With how up and down WR production is, if Dortch sticks on the roster, he may be a flyer worth taking since it gives you depth in both spots.

Overall Assessment

With his history, in conjunction with what he's done stat-wise and his need for more playing time, you'd be looking at a solid asset. Dortch has an opportunity due to the moves made on their offensive side, and he could be somebody who contributes to fantasy leagues. Fantasy managers preparing to draft should take note of Dortch so as not to miss out on a sneaky player who could contribute down the line.