Brandon LaFell returns to fringe WR3 status in Cincy

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Here's a look at the fantasy impact of free-agent WR Brandon LaFell re-signing with the Cincinnati Bengals:

LaFell is by no means a game-changer in any fantasy format. His 2016 totals of 862 yards and six scores were respectable, but came in chunks. In his final five games of the season, he corralled 28 receptions for 405 yards and two scores.

That late-season charge stung for the fantasy owners who remember LaFell notching a disappointing 457 yards and four scores through his first 11 games. That production and LaFell's lack of big-play potential likely led many to abandon ship prior to his five-game outbreak.

Going into this season, it's difficult to see LaFell's projection changing much. He's going to be a distant WR2 behind A.J. Green, and will be an occasionally decent fantasy play at best. For most fantasy owners, he'll be an afterthought or uninspiring late-round selection.

Last season, LaFell topped the 100-yard mark just once and failed to hit the 50-yard mark nine times. Such volatility is infuriating in seasonal leagues where consistency is prized and even makes him a difficult sell as a tournament play in daily fantasy. At 30 years old and lacking top-end speed, predicting when LaFell will show up is a dart-throw at best.

In My Fantasy Leagues or deeper seasonal leagues, LaFell retains some appeal as a back-end WR on any team. He'll likely be drafted in the final four rounds as a functional option that could provide three to five weeks of usage. There's no reason to reach for him, but there is merit in scooping him late should he fall to you.

(Photo courtesy: Action Images)