When it comes to **fantasy football**, few topics ignite as much passionate debate as the selection of **polarizing players**—those wide receivers, running backs, and tight ends whose values can swing dramatically based on individual perspectives. These players often dominate draft discussions and play a crucial role in determining whether you’ll be celebrating a championship or mourning a missed opportunity.
In this guide, we consulted our team of **Featured Pros** to shed light on some of the most debated **wide receiver** prospects with a high standard deviation in their rankings. Are you eyeing a breakout candidate, or should you avoid a particular player like the plague? Our experts offer insights on who to embrace and who to shy away from as we look toward the **2025 fantasy football season**.
Polarizing Fantasy Football Players: Draft or Pass?
Which wide receiver with a high standard deviation do you believe in, and who should be left on the bench?
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR – SEA)
“Despite an impressive finish as the **WR9** last season, I’m hesitant about **Jaxon Smith-Njigba**. With **Sam Darnold** stepping in for **Geno Smith**, his prospects have taken a hit. Furthermore, becoming the **clear No. 1 WR** in Seattle means he might face tougher coverage. While the addition of **Cooper Kupp** may ease some pressure, it’s likely Kupp will occupy the PPR role that Smith-Njigba thrived in last year.”
– Trevor Land from FlurrySports
“Considering the targets vacated by **DK Metcalf** and **Tyler Lockett**, I have reservations about **Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s** ranking as the top WR. The presence of **Cooper Kupp** means Smith-Njigba will shift to the outside more frequently, where he hasn’t been as effective. With a new offensive coordinator aiming to emphasize the run game, I see him finishing outside the top 15 rather than among the elite.”
– Pierre Camus from Fantasy Endgame
Keon Coleman (WR – BUF)
“**Keon Coleman** made his entrance into the league at just **21 years old**, showing promise during his rookie year despite some struggles. With an impressive average of **19.2 yards per catch**, the absence of competition for his ‘X’ role suggests that his stock could rise significantly. I wouldn’t count out a **spot-start WR3 production** from Coleman this season.”
– Kevin English from Draft Sharks
Stefon Diggs (WR – NE)
“I’m feeling optimistic about **Stefon Diggs**, who has a standard deviation of **5.4**, surpassing the consensus ranking of **WR44**. Though his torn ACL sidelined him in Week 8 last season, he had been performing remarkably up until then, posting an average of **12.6 half-PPR fantasy points** per game. Given that Diggs is the unequivocal **No. 1 WR** in an improved Patriots passing offense, if he’s healthy by Week 1, I expect him to finish as a strong WR3 this season.”
– Mike Fanelli from FantasyPros
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