Charles Sims

Sims once again showed his ability as a pass catcher in 2016 by pulling down multiple receptions in every game he played, but knee and chest injuries kept him on the sidelines for nine games, marking the second time in three NFL campaigns he's missed at least half the season. When healthy, he's essentially a wide receiver out of the backfield and gets used in the slot on occasion, but he doesn't run with enough power to be effective or consistent on the ground, and his 4.9 YPC from 2015 looks like an aberration. Sims' production comes mainly between the 20s, as he failed to see a red-zone target last year, and those limitations make him primarily useful in PPR formats. With Doug Martin suspended for three games to begin the year, Sims could see increased snaps early, but he may struggle to turn them into production.

While no one discredits the comeback year Doug Martin had, Sims concurrently established himself as one of the best No. 2 backs in the league. He was just under five yards per rush, an excellent number, and only four qualifying backs did better than his 11 yards per reception. Sims ended the year ranked 22nd among standard-league backs, and a snappy 16th in PPR formats. It’s tricky to trust that sort of volume again from someone not pegged to be a starter. Nonetheless, Sims is one of those lottery tickets for the middle round who might play enough to be flex-considerable in deeper leagues. If Martin were to get hurt, wham — you have a potential difference-maker on your hands. But perhaps Sims will get just enough work in the meantime that the waiting won’t be so painful.

A third-round pick last year, Sims did not debut until Week 10 because of an ankle injury, and he didn't wow anyone with his production once he did suit up. While Sims has good burst and elusiveness and can pick up yards on the ground, his standout skill is as a receiver, and his soft hands, smart routes and natural pass-catching ability could allow him to line up in the slot as well as in the backfield. A narrow frame and upright running style restricts his running power despite his size, though, and leaves him vulnerable to injury. The offense underwent a massive makeover this season, with first overall pick Jameis Winston and former Falcons offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter putting the focus on the passing game, providing Sims an opportunity to poach some touches from Doug Martin. Despite preseason indications the Bucs were headed for a more even time share, there has been little to indicate that the team views Sims as anything more than a passing-down specialist.

The 6-0, 211-pound Sims shocked many as Tampa Bay's third round selection, but it's his exceptional hands and great quickness that intrigues the new coaching staff. Down the road, Sims could become the Bucs' best pass-catching back, but an August ankle injury ensures that he will miss time to start the coming season.