New England Patriots: 5 must-draft players in fantasy football

– Julian Edelman

Since the start of the 2013 season, Julian Edelman has burst on to the fantasy football scene. Likely as a waiver wire pickup by some lucky owners that season, Edelman was able to total 105 receptions, 1,056 receiving yards, and six receiving touchdowns. After being somewhat of an unknown, Edelman became the No.1 option for Tom Brady in the Patriots’ passing attack.

Edelman has proved that the 2013 season was no fluke since then becoming one of the best slot receivers in the NFL. While slot receivers like Edelman don’t get the same attention as the traditional wide receivers, they are extremely valuable to both their team and fantasy football owners.

In points per reception leagues, Edelman is a must-draft player. In three of the last four seasons, Edelman has totaled at least 90 receptions. The only reason it wasn’t four years in a row was that he missed seven games in the 2015 season. However, he would have been on pace for a great season, as he totaled 61 receptions that year. Even though the Patriots have upgraded their wide receiver corps with Brandin Cooks, Edelman will continue to be a receptions machine for New England. While he might not total 1,000 receiving yards this season, he should be able to haul in 90 receptions.