Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton has proven in his first two years in the league that he can be a consistent performer in terms of fantasy football. According to Pro-Football-Reference, Hilton finished his rookie season in 2012 as the 24th best receiver in the NFL. He followed that up with an exciting sophomore season in 2013, and jumped to No. 19 in the fantasy wide receiver rankings. The slight movement upwards in the rankings can be attributed to the fact that Hilton was able to eclipse the 1,000 yard mark last year and increased his amount of receptions from his rookie season as well.
Hilton has been practicing in all four receiver spots this off season, which highlights his ability to operate outside the hash marks or in the slot. The young receiver is certainly a player on the rise, and the fact that the Colts’ offense wants to use his versatility should only increase his fantasy value heading into 2014. He performed like a standout WR-2 last year, and many fantasy general managers will be hoping he can repeat his exciting play from last season.
One factor that may scare off some potential fantasy suitors is the fact that the Colts decided to sign free agent wide out Hakeem Nicks in the off season. In my opinion, even if Nicks is able to capture some of his old form that made him the New York Giants‘ No.1 receiver a few years ago, Indianapolis will find as many ways as possible to get Hilton involved in the offense. His skill set and past performances are too much for a team to ignore. Due to the presence of Nicks, Hilton should be considered a strong, mid-range WR-2 option with upside for fantasy GM’s in 2014. He will be just as valuable as he was last season.
Alexander Muir is a writer at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter @AmuirAlex, “Like” him on Facebook or add him on your network on Google.
