Julio Jones: Falcons WR's Fantasy Football Upside Limited by Deep Offense

Julio Jones was receiving plenty of hype during the fantasy football draft season with owners thinking he would become the go-to guy in the Atlanta Falcons' high-powered offense. But the first three weeks have proven the team's depth is keeping him from reaching an elite level.

The Alabama product has caught 15 passes for 189 yards and three touchdowns. The touchdown production is nice, but the other numbers leave a lot to be desired, especially for a receiver likely drafted as a team's No. 1 or high No. 2 receiver.

It has nothing to do with Jones' ability. He's one of the most physically gifted wideouts in the NFL and should continue to improve in every aspect of the position over the next few years. He'd already be dominating on many other teams.

The biggest problem, at least from a fantasy owner's perspective, is the myriad of other options battling for touches in Atlanta's offense. It stops Jones from becoming a true top target, a role he's capable of filling in the future.

But with Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez and Harry Douglas all earning looks from star quarterback Matt Ryan and veteran running back Michael Turner still a vital piece of the offense, it's tough to predict what Jones will provide from week to week.

He's already illustrated that through three weeks. After a two-touchdown outing in the opener that likely had owners feeling they made the right decision, he followed it up with just 14 yards in Week 2. A lot of fantasy teams probably lost because of his low production.

While Jones bounced back with 67 yards and a score on Sunday, it still seems like he's third in the pecking order behind White and Gonzalez. They both have more targets, catches and yards than the second-year receiver.

As long as that remains the case, Jones won't take his fantasy production to the next level. It's impossible to rely on touchdowns because it's such a volatile stat, and his other numbers are indicative of a mid-range No. 2 receiver so far.

There will come a time when Jones becomes an unstoppable fantasy force. It just isn't likely to happen this season with so many other weapons for Ryan to keep happy.

If owners can capitalize on his early touchdown barrage and get a true top-end receiver who's off to a slow start in return, then trading him would be a wise move.

Otherwise, he'll still serve as a solid weekly starter, but don't expect his end-of-season numbers to reach preseason hype level.