Sleeper Watch

When looking for a #2 wide receiver this season, don’t forget about Tai Streets. Once a fantasy afterthought, Streets came into his own last year, catching 72 passes for 756 yards. More importantly, Streets outperformed J.J. Stokes by a considerable margin.

Now, with Stokes headed to parts unknown (Jacksonville? Stay tuned…), Streets is ready to play an even greater role in San Francisco’s potent offense. Expect the Michigan alum to increase his yardage total, and above all, receive more looks in the red zone. Streets scored five touchdowns in 2002, and that number may well rise.

Make no mistake: Terrell Owens remains the #1 receiving option for the 49ers, and Streets won’t challenge for that role anytime soon. Nonetheless, he should post solid numbers, and will be undervalued in many drafts. Just don’t expect him to last too long; Tai Streets is by no means a deep sleeper…

Incidentally, Cedrick Wilson seems to be the early favorite to become San Francisco’s #3 receiver, but don’t count Brandon Lloyd out quite yet. Keep an eye on this situation – whoever winds up winning this competition could turn into a solid late-round gamble.