Fantasy Football Rankings: Raiders’ most tantalizing targets in 2018

2. TE Jared Cook

Current ADP: 133.4

Realistically, Jared Cook is coming off a less-than-spectacular first year with the Raiders. Sure, he led the team in receiving yards and had the most catches of 20+ yards, but he managed only two touchdowns. Still, I’m confident Year 2 in Oakland will go better for Cook.

Now it is worth noting that Cook has never been a touchdown machine. The most trips for six he’s managed in one season is five, and that was back in 2013 with the then-St. Louis Rams. However, 2017 was his second-best season from a yardage standpoint. On top of that, it also yielded his second-best catch percentage (62.8).

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With Nelson and Cooper out wide, I’m hoping this will free up Cook to do his thing in the middle of the field.

In fact, especially with the two-headed run game, the veteran tight end seems almost destined for arguably his biggest statistical output to date. That could bode very well for fantasy owners hoping to get some stable production from the tight end position.

It’s not often easy finding tight ends who contribute significant points each and every week. Based on last year’s numbers, it may seem difficult to imagine Cook serving in that role. However, he did flash serious point potential, especially down the stretch. With another year in the system and Gruden looking to make Carr’s life easier, Cook should enjoy a sneaky good fantasy season in 2018.

The fact that he can be had late in the draft helps his overall value, too.