2013 Fantasy Football Sleeper: Seattle Seahawks WR Golden Tate

Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

In 2013, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Golden Tate is aiming to be remembered for more than just the end zone debacle that was one of the more memorable moments of the replacement ref era in 2012. There are a couple of reasons to believe he will have his best year as a pro this season, thus launching him into serious fantasy relevance.

With starting wideout Percy Harvin out a while, Tate steps into the starting role. Comfortable with quarterback Russell Wilson, Tate and his quarterback have a very good chemistry that will continue to show as the second year passer keeps learning the professional game.

Opposite Sidney Rice, Tate will be Wilson’s second option in the passing game. With both Rice and Tate being somewhat inconsistent wide receivers over the last year or so, they will both be counted on heavily to step up their game. Rice, for one, played his first full season in three years in 2012.

Tate enters this season with extra added pressure on his back. In 2014, he will be a free agent. Therefore, he is best served coming in with an extra pep in his step for this upcoming campaign. Like most younger players in contract years, they have a tendency to play with a bigger sense of urgency in order to get that increased pay day.

I like Tate as a WR3 in most leagues depending on how large the league is. In an eight team league, you will find far better options. In a 12-team league, however, Tate would be a great option as a third wideout. Keep him in mind as you enter your drafts very soon, and watch for Tate to perform at his highest level yet in 2013.

Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.