5 Fantasy Football replacements for Aaron Rodgers

#3. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams, ESPN Ownership: 29.9 percent

Just a year ago, it would seem ludicrous that a pass-heavy QB like Matt Stafford would be available in 70 percent of ESPN fantasy leagues, but that's what happens when you lose All-World WR Cooper Kupp for at least four games and you're coming off of an injury-marred season highlighted by concussions and a chronic elbow injury. For Stafford and fantasy owners, things are about to change.

In the offseason, Stafford supposedly struggled to connect with his young receivers, but on game day that proved to be a non-factor for the ex-Detroit Lion. Rookie Puka Nacua and and third-year pro Tutu Atwell combined for 238 yards on 16 receptions (23 total targets on 38 pass attempts), with longs of 44 and 21 yards respectively. Veterans like Van Jefferson and Tyler Higbee combined for just seven catches with the two young star receivers excelling in a big way.

The Rams' run game stole the show in the red zone as they scored on two one-yard rushes and a seven-yard rush to keep Stafford and Co. off of the scoresheet. However, Cam Akers had 29 yards on 22 carries, while Kyren Williams was not much better with 52 on 15 totes. As long as the Rams struggle on the ground, a healthy Stafford is going to keep putting the ball up north of 35 times a game, which should lead to healthy yardage and pass touchdown totals.

It seems that most fantasy players are yet to catch wind of Stafford's revitalization, and if you can acquire him at a discount, it will be well worth it. Better yet, if you're a part of the 70 percent, Stafford comes at a free cost.