Colts wide receiver T.Y. Hilton is a possible breakout candidate going into the 2013 NFL season. Hilton finished 21st in standard fantasy football scoring among wide receivers last season and will likely line up opposite Reggie Wayne as the Colts #2 receiver this season.
Last year, Hilton went under-the-radar with a very solid rookie season, racking up 861 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns in 15 games. Hilton recorded 50 receptions with 12 noteworthy drops, despite being targeted 91 times.
Hilton’s absurd speed and great hands allowed him to make plenty of huge plays in 2012. The young receiver was tied for 3rd in the NFL with 5 receptions for more than 40 yards, while also recording 13 receptions for over 20 yards. It’s normally tough to rely on huge plays like these, but Hilton certainly has the skills to continue this trend.
His top-of-the-line agility is his greatest asset which always makes him a threat after catching the ball. Hilton silently averaged 7.9 yards after catch last season, ranking him 2nd in the NFL behind only Percy Harvin in that category.
Hilton’s ability to create separation and burn defensive backs down the field was on full display last season. With more opportunities to catch passes next season, Hilton has the potential to put up excellent numbers.
Hilton spent 2012 as the Colts third receiver, behind Reggie Wayne and Donnie Avery. Avery is long gone to the Kansas City Chiefs and Wayne is pushing 35-years-old. Wayne was targeted 194 times, which ranked him second in targets behind only Calvin Johnson. If Wayne slows down this season, Hilton will certainly steal some of his targets.
This season Hilton should be the Colts starter opposite Reggie Wayne, but will have recently signed wide out Darrius Hewyard-Bey close on his tail. Hilton should go around the 8th round in most fantasy drafts. If he’s available, snag him while you can because he definitely has the potential to improve upon last season’s already impressive numbers.
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