Rome Odunze And J.J. McCarthy: Fantasy Football Sleepers To Watch

David

3 min read

Post on Jul 28, 2025

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Rome Odunze and J.J. McCarthy: Fantasy Football Sleepers Poised for Breakout Seasons

Fantasy football drafts are upon us, and the hunt for sleepers – those undervalued players poised for breakout performances – is on. This year, two names are generating significant buzz among savvy fantasy managers: Rome Odunze of the Seattle Seahawks and J.J. McCarthy of the Detroit Lions. Are they legitimate sleepers, or just hype? Let's dive into their potential and why they should be on your radar.

Rome Odunze: The Seahawks' Rising Star

Odunze, a second-year receiver out of Washington, is quietly building a reputation as a potential fantasy goldmine. While he didn't put up massive numbers as a rookie, his flashes of brilliance and increased role within the Seahawks' offense point towards a significant uptick in production in 2023.

• Improved Offensive Line: The Seahawks' offensive line upgrades should provide more time for quarterback Geno Smith, leading to more opportunities for Odunze to make plays downfield.
• Geno Smith's Consistency: Smith's reliability as a quarterback provides a stable foundation for Odunze's development. Unlike some volatile quarterback situations, Odunze can count on consistent targets.
• Target Competition: While the Seahawks have other talented receivers like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, Odunze's unique skill set – a blend of size, speed, and route-running ability – allows him to carve out a significant niche in the offense. He's not just a gadget player; he’s a versatile threat.

Why Odunze is a Sleeper: Many fantasy managers are focusing on the established stars, overlooking the potential of a player like Odunze who is primed for a larger role and significantly more targets. His ADP (Average Draft Position) remains relatively low, making him a high-value pick for those willing to take a calculated risk.

J.J. McCarthy: The Lions' Quarterback of the Future (and Present?)

J.J. McCarthy, entering his second season, is no longer just a prospect; he's the starting quarterback for a high-powered Lions offense. While the hype around him might be considerable, his potential fantasy output is undeniable.

• Offensive Weapons: The Lions boast an impressive arsenal of offensive weapons, including Amon-Ra St. Brown, DJ Chark, and a resurgent David Montgomery. This spread-the-wealth approach means fewer defenses can focus solely on shutting down McCarthy's top targets.
• Dan Campbell's Aggressive Offense: Coach Dan Campbell's commitment to a fast-paced, aggressive offensive scheme creates ample scoring opportunities. McCarthy’s ability to run adds another dynamic to his fantasy value.
• Run-Pass Options: McCarthy excels at read-option plays and run-pass options (RPOs), leading to both rushing and passing touchdowns, contributing significantly to his overall fantasy points.

Why McCarthy is a Sleeper: Despite his starting role, McCarthy's ADP is still relatively lower than established quarterbacks. His dual-threat capabilities and the Lions' high-octane offense make him a high-ceiling quarterback with considerable upside for fantasy football.

Conclusion: Taking the Leap on Sleepers

Rome Odunze and J.J. McCarthy represent intriguing options for fantasy football managers looking for potential game-changers. While risks are always involved when drafting sleepers, their potential reward significantly outweighs the risk. Don't be afraid to gamble on these talented players, and you might just find yourself celebrating a fantasy championship thanks to a couple of shrewd picks. Remember to do your own research and consult expert fantasy football rankings, but keep Odunze and McCarthy high on your watchlist this draft season.

What are your thoughts? Who are your top fantasy football sleepers for 2023? Share your picks in the comments below!