Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton (14) Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Why Broncos WR Courtland Sutton is a must-start in fantasy playoffs

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 12/12/23

As fantasy owners prepare for their playoffs, one player they should insert into their starting lineup is Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton.

CBS Sports fantasy model — which simulates every NFL game 10,000 times — tabbed Sutton as a must-start for Week 15.

"Sutton has recorded a touchdown catch in seven of his last eight games," CBS Sports staff wrote. "Now he'll match up with a Lions defense that ranks 19th against the pass and that has allowed 21 passing touchdowns (27th in the NFL), and the model ranks Sutton as a top-15 wide receiver."

How does he keep doing this @SuttonCourtland | : CBS pic.twitter.com/xlRoH9GGBk
— Denver Broncos (@Broncos) December 10, 2023

The 28-year-old made the Pro Bowl in 2019 but only played one game in 2020 due to a season-ending ACL tear. He struggled over the past two seasons, only logging four receiving TDs. The Broncos also reportedly considered trading him in the offseason.

However, he's rebounded and become quarterback Russell Wilson's favorite target. Through 13 games, he has 53 receptions for 699 yards and a career-high 10 receiving TDs, tied for second in the NFL. ESPN's Jeff Legwold noted he's the first Denver pass-catcher to reach double-digit receiving TDs since 2014 and four away from tying a team record shared by Demaryius Thomas and Anthony Miller.

Per ESPN Fantasy, he's recorded 176.9 fantasy points in PPR (points per reception) leagues, 20th at his position.

The Broncos (7-6) are entering a critical stretch. Per The New York Times simulator, their playoff chances will increase from 48 percent to 91 percent if they win three of their next four games. Expect Sutton to have a prominent role and provide an offensive spark.

He's probably flying under the radar for most fantasy players, but they should keep a close eye on him. The talented WR is having the best season of his career and becoming an impact player.

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