Greg Olsen emerged as one of the most reliable tight ends in the league during the 2017 season, combining elite red-zone target rates with steady production week after week. His performance in 2017 defined his value for NFC North fantasy managers and playoff-chasing teams alike.
Olsen leveraged his size, route-running, and quarterback trust to log career-high numbers while remaining a core asset for the Carolina Panthers in a high-stakes division race.
| Category | 2017 Season | 2016 Season | Career Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targets | 123 | 92 | 88 |
| Receptions | 89 | 66 | 65 |
| Receiving Yards | 1,073 | 771 | 718 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 8 | 7 | 6 |
| Games Started | 15 | 16 | 15 |
Weekly Production and Consistency in 2017
From Week 1 through the regular-season finale, Olsen maintained a high floor of production that fantasy owners relied on. His ability to convert third downs and red-zone opportunities translated into steady point totals even in low-scoring games.
Olsen rarely suffered extended droughts, and his touchdown share increased as the Panthers leaned on him in critical situations. This consistency made him a top-12 tight end in standard scoring formats during 2017.
Target Share and Red-Zone Dominance
Olsen’s share of Carolina’s target volume reached elite levels in 2017, driven by play-action concepts and deep threats that opened intermediate windows for him. On third downs, coordinators frequently looked to him as a soft spot in coverage.
Red-Zone Usage
In the red zone, Olsen’s size and frame allowed him to outmuscle defenders, resulting in a spike in touchdown share compared to previous seasons. This amplified his floor and made him especially valuable in close games.
Injury Management and Availability Risks
While Olsen stayed relatively healthy in 2017, his position carried inherent physical risk that fantasy managers had to weigh when constructing weekly lineups. Ankle and shoulder issues in prior years loomed over his availability in any given matchup.
Teams in need of a stable tight end understood that trading for Olsen or drafting him early represented a calculated trade-off between ceiling and durability.
Scheme Fit and Team Context
Running a pro-style offense with multiple receiving threats around him, Olsen benefited from play-action, mesh concepts, and quarterback patience. Carolina’s offensive line and defensive demands influenced how often he faced single coverage.
The balanced attack around him created favorable matchups, while the tight end’s awareness and blocking extended his value in both the passing and running game.
2017 Season Takeaways for Fantasy Managers
- Elite target volume with 123 targets and 89 receptions highlighted Olsen’s reliability.
- 1,073 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns showcased a balanced contribution in receptions and scores.
- 15 starts provided stability, though roster managers tracked ankle and shoulder injury history.
- Usage within a strong offensive scheme amplified red-zone opportunities and high-leverage situations.
- Weekly ownership value remained high for teams seeking a proven tight end in flex and start slots.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many targets did Greg Olsen have in 2017 compared to previous years?
Greg Olsen recorded 123 targets in 2017, a significant increase from his 92 targets in 2016, reflecting his expanded role in the Panthers’ offense.
What was Greg Olsen’s touchdown total in 2017 and how did it compare to earlier seasons?
Olsen scored 8 receiving touchdowns in 2017, up from 7 in 2016, as he became a more central red-zone option for Carolina.
Did Greg Olsen miss games in 2017 that affected his fantasy production?
He started 15 of 16 games in 2017, missing only one contest, which helped him maintain consistent reception and yardage totals.
How did Greg Olsen’s 2017 performance impact his fantasy ranking among tight ends?
His 2017 season elevated him into the top tier of tight ends, often ranking as a top-12 overall fantasy option in standard leagues.