Demarcus Robinson didn’t have a hyper-productive 2023, but he carved out a significant role with the Los Angeles Rams down the stretch. That has carried over into the start of 2024, as he stepped up after Puka Nacua went down with an injury. With plenty of mouths to feed in Los Angeles, can he be a viable fantasy football option the rest of the way?
Should Demarcus Robinson Be Added From the Fantasy Waiver Wire in Week 2?
Since his second year in the league, Robinson has been a relatively consistent performer in the NFL. Despite bouncing around teams a bit, he’s accumulated over 200 yards each year, but never more than 500, with most seasons finishing at or around the 400-yard mark since 2019.
Similarly, his reception count has never dipped below 20, nor cracked 50, with his average sitting around 40. Outside of 2016 and 2017 — his first two seasons — he’s scored multiple touchdowns every year, but never more than four. He epitomizes the role of a depth receiver.
None of those numbers are those of a serious fantasy football option, but this year could be different. The 42 yards he picked up against the Detroit Lions are better than his per-game average in any season, and he could continue to see an expanded role with Nacua hitting injured reserve.
While Nacua is out, Robinson and Tyler Johnson are the main receiving options behind Cooper Kupp. In an offense as pass-friendly as the Rams, with Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford calling the shots, that type of role could mean significant production.
Robinson is probably a worthwhile addition to your team while Nacua is out, which will be at least four weeks. Beyond that, however, it’s not clear that either he or Johnson will have a major role.
If your team is in immediate need of help at the wide receiver or Flex position, consider putting in a waiver claim for him. On the other hand, if you’re already rostering Robinson, consider taking this opportunity to get some trade value out of him if someone else in your league seriously needs a receiver.