Charles Clay: Fantasy Football Sleeper

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Thus far, the Miami Dolphins have been somewhat impressive and a bit of a surprise to the rest of the league. While that seems to be slowly fading after two straight losses, the Dolphins are still clinging to a 3-2 record and look to come off of their bye week with a rejuvenated attitude for the remainder of the schedule.

One of the more pleasant surprises and keys to Miami’s success has been that of tight end Charles Clay. When Dustin Keller’s season was ended due to a knee injury, it was widely wondered just who would step up in his place. Clay has more than answered the call, and is making the case to be started in some fantasy leagues at this point.

After five games, Clay has caught 23 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns. His yardage is good for seventh-most in the league.

“I think he’s one of the hardest guys to cover on the team,” quarterback Ryan Tannehill told the Miami Herald.

“He’s got the speed, he’s got the size, he’s matched up against linebackers and safeties. You put those guys on him, and he’s really tough to cover; we like our matchups there. Even in the [Ravens] game, he had a corner on him when he caught the touchdown. He’s a really explosive, versatile guy that we can get the ball to in a number of different ways,” Tannehill said.

Well, his quarterback sure has some confidence in him; and so should fantasy owners. Clay is on pace for 74 catches and 950 yards which would break the all-time receiving record for a Dolphins tight end set in 2004 by Randy McMichael.

Consider Clay a borderline TE1 in most leagues and a guaranteed TE2 going forward. Watch for him to only get more comfortable with the offense and Tannehill’s confidence in him to keep rising.

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.