2013 Fantasy Football Sleeper: Cleveland Browns WR Josh Gordon

Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

If you have not already held your annual fantasy football draft yet, chances are that it’s happening soon. While so many are focused on ranking the top players available, one of the most important factors in pre-draft research is how to win the later rounds.

Last year, you could probably have counted on one hand the amount of people that took Washington Redskins running back Alfred Morris before the last couple of rounds, if at all. Who would have believed Mike Shanahan would start Morris right off the bat and that he would have such a huge impact in fantasy leagues?

This game truly is unpredictable at times. But, that’s where we come in and try to unravel the mysteries that we call fantasy football sleepers.

One of this year’s biggest sleepers is going to be Cleveland Browns wideout Josh Gordon. As a rookie last year, Gordon developed some solid chemistry with quarterback Brandon Weeden. Gordon got his shot due to injuries at wide receiver, and after he stepped on the field as a starter for the first time, he never looked back.

Finishing 2012 with 50 receptions for 805 yards and five touchdowns, Gordon was a pleasant surprise for a team that was thought to solely feature Trent Richardson as the only offensive threat. Going into his second year, Gordon should get plenty more passes thrown his way from the get-go.

Many still do not look at Gordon too often when preparing for their drafts, simply because he is a Brown. I understand that. It’s tough to like a guy who’s only in his second year and may have been somewhat under the radar last year as a rookie, especially when he plays for a ‘terrible team.’

Well, as you’ve heard me say before, the Browns definitely could shock their critics in 2013. Don’t be surprised to see them finish .500 or better. Lastly, don’t be surprised if Gordon breaks out as their number one option in the passing game.

Ryan Heckman is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @ryanmheckman, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.