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McShay's rookie fantasy rankings: Top players and sleepers

Every year, we see a few rookies become real fantasy difference-makers. In 2014, Odell Beckham Jr.'s breakout performance won a lot of leagues for a lot of fans. And last season, Todd Gurley cruised to the fifth-best season of all running backs, despite sitting out the first three games.

Let's break down which rookies have the right combination of skill, opportunity and health to join Beckham and Gurley as the next players to shine in Year 1.


Top 5 overall rookies

1. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys: Even if Elliott didn't have the good fortune of running behind the NFL's best offensive line, he would still make this list. He's a true three-down player, so he will get plenty of opportunity to put up big numbers in this offense. With QB Tony Romo injured again and the Cowboys' defense slated to have some of its best players suspended to start the season, Dallas should be looking to play a ball-control offense. That means Elliott will be featured early and often. The Cowboys didn't draft him No. 4 overall to bring him along slowly. Elliott is pro-ready. Expect his numbers to reflect that.