Patriots vs. Eagles: Fantasy Sleepers to Watch in High-Profile Preseason Matchup

The New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles have been two of the league's most successful franchises in the past decade. But with Tom Brady adapting to his new-look receiving group and Chip Kelly implementing his system, both teams enter the preseason with question marks.

For both offenses, exhibition games will serve as a chance to work out the kinks and get everybody on the same page. From a fantasy perspective, it's a chance for owners to get a closer look at players on the fringe who could provide value as late-round selections.

Stars like Tom Brady, who will go early in all drafts, likely won't see much action right out of the gate. Instead, other players get a chance to shine and perhaps climb onto the fantasy radar. Let's check out three to keep an eye on.

RB Shane Vereen, Patriots

While Stevan Ridley is the workhorse rusher in New England, he doesn't make much of an impact in the passing game. He had just six catches last regular season, and with Danny Woodhead now playing for the San Diego Chargers, it opens the door for Vereen to make a bigger impact.

The 2011 second-round pick made seven catches for 105 yards and two touchdowns in two playoff games last season. He's also trusted in the red zone, which is why he was able to score three rushing touchdowns despite extremely limited carries in 2012.

As it stands now, Vereen is already a fantasy handcuff for Ridley. Depending on how his role develops before the preseason, he could be worth a flier even for owners without the New England starter. They could create a terrific one-two punch.

WR Aaron Dobson, Patriots

When healthy, Rob Gronkowski and Danny Amendola are going to get a lot of targets. But that still leaves an opportunity for at least one more player to get on the opposite end of Brady's pinpoint passes. Right now, it looks like Dobson is ready to seize the spot.

The rookie out of Marshall possesses an intriguing combination of size and speed. He's shown the ability to make plays down the field—especially in jump-ball scenarios, where he can get up above the defender to reel in the pass. Brady will love that if they can build chemistry.

Expect that connection to develop slowly throughout the preseason. It's not easy for a rookie to step right into a New England offense that's been a well-oiled machine for so long. But if Dobson shows he's up to the task, he'll provide solid receiver depth in fantasy.

WR Jason Avant, Eagles

Avant is an overlooked commodity. He's made at least 50 catches in three straight seasons despite having a varied role in the Eagles offense. The only reason he doesn't attract more attention is the lack of touchdowns. He's scored just two of the past three seasons.

Those scoring opportunities should become more common without Jeremy Maclin available. The star receiver was placed on injured reserve with an ACL injury. A disappointing turn of events for him, but a chance to step up for Avant.

DeSean Jackson is the team's big-play receiver, but there will be plenty of targets available underneath and in the red zone. Should Avant have a strong preseason to assume that larger role, he should emerge as a major fantasy surprise.