As we close in toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move, with key events like free agency and the 2023 NFL Draft still to come. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty fantasy football value of WR DeVonta Smith.
DeVonta Smith’s Dynasty Outlook and Value
“He’s too small to succeed in the NFL.” Safe to say we don’t hear anyone saying this nonsense anymore. Smith has found nothing but success.
The WR30 in 2021 with 916 yards and five touchdowns on 64 catches, the narrative switched to Smith being an afterthought following A.J. Brown’s acquisition, with many citing a lack of belief in Jalen Hurts’ ability to sustain two high-level receivers. Once again, those same people have been silenced.
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In 2022, Smith finished as the WR9 overall for fantasy, catching 95 of his 136 targets for 1,196 yards with seven TDs. Fourteenth in points per game (15.0 PPR), Smith had a 26.98% target share (14th) and a 30.62% air-yard share. He saw 22 deep targets (No. 19), 13 red-zone targets (30), was seventh in yards after the catch (485), ninth in EPA, 12th in QBR when targeted, and 16th in points per route run.
Brown and Smith are perfect complements to each other. Smith works the more intermediate to shorter areas of the field with an over-the-top skill set, while Brown is the physical YAC target who can take one to the house anytime. As a WR2 or better in 65% of his games, with only four in the single digits, Smith was one of the most consistent receivers in dynasty.
DeVonta Smith’s Fantasy Ranking
Throw in the fact Smith is heading into Year 3 of his career and the potential for five to six more seasons of production still in front of him, and he is easily a low-end WR1 in value.
In dynasty PPR formats, Smith is the WR16 and in the upper end of Tier 5 with Drake London, Deebo Samuel, and Chris Godwin. Safe to say he is in good company. When it comes to Superflex formats, where quarterbacks see an increase in value due to positional scarcity, Smith is the No. 43 overall player.
I would hold Smith until we see a reason to move him, which is likely not until 2024 when his rookie contract is up. We’ll have to see where he ends up at that point and reassess his value. Unless someone’s willing to overpay, Smith is staying on my roster.
He is in a phenomenal spot right now with the Eagles and is tied to an elite QB. That’s all you could ever ask and hope for regarding a high-end wide receiver.