Former West Virginia wide receiver Stedman Bailey is a strong, physical receiver; with solid hands and superb route-running ability.  Unfortunately for him, Bailey was always overshadowed by fellow Mountaineers’ receiver Tavon Austin, which is evident by his stats. Despite this, the St. Louis Rams liked what they saw enough to make Bailey their second receiver selected in April’s draft.  But with a ton of young and talented receivers on the roster, what will Bailey’s fantasy value be for 2013 and beyond? Let’s find out.

Bailey is an incredibly talented route runner, and quite strong from his small stature.  He isn’t the fastest receiver, but can use his quickness and strength to gain separation regularly.  Bailey also has great hands and never uses his body to catch the ball.  There are a few things that will be standing in the way of his immediate success though.  Austin, Brian Quick, Chris Givens and Austin Pettis are all currently listed above Bailey on the depth chart.  Givens and Pettis give the Rams two big possession receivers, while Austin and Quick are both small, speedy guys.  While Austin is clearly a lot smaller than anyone else on the team, Quick is the same size and build as Bailey, and has more experience with the offense and scheme which likely gives him the edge over Bailey to start the season.  Add in new tight end Jared Cook, and it’s hard to imagine Bailey gets a lot of targets in 2013. 

In the end, Bailey isn’t even worth a look in redraft leagues, no matter the scoring format, unless you’re in a 24-plus team league.  He’ll likely finish 2013 in the mid 70’s for receivers, and as the 11th or 12th best rookie receiver, which means he’s barely a WR3 option in a 24 team league.  Bailey definitely has his value in dynasty startup or rookie drafts though, as he will eventually push Quick and possibly even Givens for playing time, and will be called upon to step up early if there is an injury.  Grab him in the mid-late rounds and stash him on the taxi squad for a year or two. 

2013 Stat Projections: 35 receptions, 375 yards and one touchdown.