Julius Thomas a must-pick up fantasy player

Julius Thomas was one of the players fantasy owners had their eye on entering the Denver Broncos’ season-opening game against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night, and he proved he is more than worth a spot on your fantasy roster.

Thomas caught five passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns in Denver’s 49-27 whooping over the Ravens. Thomas showed what he could do in the second quarter when he was targeted on consecutive plays. First, Peyton Manning hit him for a 44-yard completion. On the next play, the two connected for a 23-yard touchdown over the middle.

Thomas had four catches for 97 yards and two touchdowns by halftime, which is probably when several owners looked to pick him up in fantasy. If he’s still available in your league, grab him.

Thomas was a fourth-round pick of the Broncos out of Portland State in 2011. He was buried on the team’s depth chart and missed most of last season after undergoing ankle surgery. He entered Thursday with one career catch, but he should post solid numbers this season.

Denver has plenty of receivers competing for catchers in the offense. Demaryius Thomas, Eric Decker and Wes Welker will all see plenty of passes. But Manning will still throw to Julius plenty, especially when the tight end has single coverage because the other threats are receiving more attention.