In The Blitz, RotoViz writers react to the latest news and help you place it within the context of our 2020 research and recommendations.
An intriguing offense with various new pieces, the Indianapolis Colts are back on the fantasy-radar after a tumultuous 2019 season. One young player looking to establish himself is second-year wide receiver Parris Campbell. Recently involved in a car crash, head coach Frank Reich had positive news regarding Campbell.
Frank Reich said that wide receiver Parris Campbell “is going to be fine” after being put in the league’s concussion protocol following a minor car accident on Tuesday. Campbell should return to the practice field shortly and be good to go for Week 1. Expected to work out of the slot, the second-year wideout could be in line for a breakout season with Philip Rivers now under center. That could especially be the case if T.Y. Hilton continues to be affected by injuries. If Hilton misses time again in 2020, it wouldn’t be a big surprise to see Campbell lead the team in targets.
College & Rookie Review
Campbell parlayed a strong collegiate career at Ohio State and a monstrous combine performance into second-round draft capital in 2019.
Just how athletic was he?
His 4.31 speed and elite explosiveness were on full display at the combine. You don’t see too many receivers who score above the 90th percentile in speed, explosiveness, and agility. Unfortunately, even a 1,000-yard, 12-TD final season at Ohio State might have been a mild red flag.
In recent years, Ohio State has been notorious for spreading the ball around. As Hasam Rahim noted in his prospect profile, this has prevented any single player from dominating the box score.
Campbell’s college teammate, Terry McLaurin was drafted a round after Campbell but went on to have an incredibly impressive rookie season. Topping 90 targets, 900 receiving yards, and scoring seven touchdowns, McLaurin is an ascending fantasy asset. In college, Campbell almost doubled up McLaurin on receptions and reeled in 500 more receiving yards. Campbell is a dynamic player who carried stronger draft capital than his talented teammate.
Unfortunately, that was about as good as it got for Campbell during his rookie season. A variety of injuries resulted in him only appearing in seven games as a rookie. As such, his price is depressed, heading into 2020.
