Sleeper Alert

Antonio Brown had a breakout season in 2011, and the speed specialist has huge upside heading into 2012. Last year, Brown pulled in 69 balls for 1,108 yards and 2TDs. The touchdown production wasn’t all that impressive, but with Ben Roethlisberger healed up from his 2011 foot, ankle and thumb injuries, Brown should see a big bump in the touchdown opportunities in 2012.

Mike Wallace still has top 8-12 fantasy upside, but it wouldn’t be all that shocking to see Brown take Wallace’s place as the team’s top reception getter in 2012. Wallace is still the No. 1 fantasy wide receiver on that Steelers’ roster, don’t get me wrong, but I think Brown could see the most single coverage of the two receivers this upcoming season, which is why I’m thinking the little guy could lead the team in receptions in 2012.

It’s important to note that Brown’s current 2012 fantasy football ADP is in the 6th- to 7th-round range… that’s about right, as it still provides Brown a strong shot to outperform his draft position. Monitor his ADP throughout the off-season, though, and if it climbs too high, Brown becomes a bit more risky.

2012 Projections

• Mike Wallace: 65 receptions for 1,190 yards and 7TDs
• Antonio Brown: 75 receptions for 1,150 yards and 6TDs

Conclusion

Both Antonio Brown and Mike Wallace will likely have solid fantasy WR2-like seasons in 2012, which means that Ben Roethlisberger could be the most underrated of all three guys heading into August. Big Ben’s ADP is currently in that 9th- to 10th-round range. That’s nice value right there.