Jaelon Darden Fantasy

The Cleveland Browns claimed wide receiver/kick returner Jaelon Darden off waivers from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Wednesday, according to a source. The Browns scooped up the 23-year-old after he was waived earlier this week. He'll give Cleveland some receiving depth after they played Anthony Schwartz (concussion) on Injured Reserve on Wednesday. Darden played in 12 games for the Bucs this year, catching both of his targets for 26 yards and also carrying the ball once for two yards. He has also returned a league-high 31 punts for 330 yards on special teams. The second-year receiver/returner will be more valuable to the Browns on special teams and will remain well off the fantasy radar.

Dec. 8th • 1:34 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receivers Russell Gage and Jaelon Darden have looked good so far in training camp. Gage has been as advertised by sporting an array of moves to help him get separation both on the outside and inside in the slot. He's often been the primary receiver in practices with Chris Godwin (knee) missing time. Darden has a much better understanding of the playbook, which includes choice routes that are prevalent in the offense. He's playing faster, running better routes and catching the ball with greater regularity in his second season. Darden also has the inside track for the return-specialist job, which helps his chances of making the final roster. Gage could still be a nice weapon in his first year in Tampa, but the addition of veteran Julio Jones should temper fantasy managers' hopes for a breakout in 2022.

Aug. 5th • 12:42 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jaelon Darden only caught six passes for 43 yards on 12 targets in nine games in his rookie season in 2021. He displaced Jaydon Mickens in the return game but only managed 19.9 and 7.5 yards on 37 total kick and punt returns, respectively. Darden's roster spot was in jeopardy heading into this offseason, but he was a frequent target of quarterback Tom Brady in minicamp, and head coach Todd Bowles said Darden had a great offseason. The 23-year-old put in work on the playbook "three times per day" in the offseason and is more comfortable in the offense. Darden won't be on the fantasy radar to open the 2022 season, but his versatility could be an important asset for the Bucs' receiving depth with Chris Godwin (knee) unlikely to be ready for Week 1.

Jul. 20th • 12:59 PM