Like many fantasy football playing Americans you, found yourself shriveled on the floor while simultaneously sobbing with your comfort-food of choice asking: who is Larry Donnell and why does he hate me?
Studying Giants tape today. Larry Donnell isn't a fluke…He's a star. Burst, ball skills and run after catch ability–off the charts.
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) September 30, 2014
Larry Donnell has MORE receiving TDs this season (4) than the Patriots, Bengals & Lions (3). pic.twitter.com/Wfvq4kUZ2m
— His And Hers (@HisAndHers) September 26, 2014
Donnell burst onto the fantasy spectrum with a three-touchdown performance in the New York Giants’ Week 4 win over Washington, and those lucky enough to own Donnell are happier than Jerry Jones at a Crazy Horse. Yet doubt remains regarding Donnell’s fantasy prospectus for the remainder of the season.
To quantify why Larry Donnell will be a top-12 tight end this season, simply look at his usage per game. With no less than five receptions as Eli Manning’s check-down option in each of the team’s four games, Donnell has proven to be a commodity as a possession receiver. Though three of his four scores did come against Washington, Donnell’s prowess at the catch-point will make him a favorite of Manning in the red zone all season long.
The New York passing offense is 16th in both passing attempts and in yardage, making Ben McAdoo’s offense efficient yet largely inconsistent. The Giants’ offensive ceiling certainly limit’s Donnell’s upside, but his five games remaining against the NFC East should alleviate some of his compatriots’ offensive struggles.
https://twitter.com/SportsNation/status/515314058279804928
Donnell is no Gronkowski or Graham, nor a Davis or Cameron; he is simply a man that has fallen into the right place at the right time as the object of Eli Manning’s affection. Be it in PPR or standard formats, Donnell is worth a look as a starting tight end.
Photo: USA Today