Felix Jones hype (1 Viewer)

[Dooge12]

Whereas if Felix gets hurt, it would be Barber whose role in the passing game will increase, and Choice will be used in Barber's place for the grind it out stuff. I honestly don't see much value in Choice, barring a Barber injury.

Switz,You don't see value in Choice in redraft or dynasty? What are people saying about his long-term potential? Thanks...

 

[switz]

Whereas if Felix gets hurt, it would be Barber whose role in the passing game will increase, and Choice will be used in Barber's place for the grind it out stuff. I honestly don't see much value in Choice, barring a Barber injury.

Switz,You don't see value in Choice in redraft or dynasty? What are people saying about his long-term potential? Thanks...

Choice is only of value if you have Barber and are looking for a handcuff. But don't expect him to duplicate Barber's numbers if Barber gets hurt. From a dynasty perspective - he's got backup RB potential. I don't see stardom in his future.

 

[switz]

Training Camp Observations

The early camp delight over Felix Jones seems to involve much more than the normal pumping up of a first-round draft pick. "Wow," said Tony Romo when asked about Felix’ pass-catching talents out of the backfield.

The offensive staff is thinking immediate impact with Felix.

Then again, a comment on the other first-round pick, cornerback Mike Jenkins, was this: "Going to be good, we think, but got a long way to go."

Interesting, huh, how the rookie cornerback creating a stir so far is fifth-round pick Orlando Scandrick of Boise State.

Nice that they contrast the two rookies, helps us see it's not all hype about Felix early successes in camp. Excited to see what happens against San Diego.

 

[switz]

A little synopsis from today's practice/scrimmage versus the Broncos

9:25 a.m.: If anyone had any doubts whether the Broncos took this serious, Marion Barber learned on the first play. He got slammed to the turf by Broncos veteran linebacker Jamie Winborn. On the second play, Winborn stood Barber up at the line of scrimmage. Players are supposed to stay up after wrapping up the ballcarrier, but there were guys falling all over the place.

Some highlights: Felix Jones had a death grip on the football when two Broncos players tried to strip him. They wouldn't have treated their guy that way, either.

I know sometimes rookies have issues with fumbling. Nice to see Jones knows how to cover up.

 

[switz]

Training Camp Ends

2. Young, But Ready - First-round pick Felix Jones has what it takes. Ok, he's played just one preseason game, and only a quarter at that. But he showed enough in that limited time, and with a few glimpses here in camp, to let us know that he certainly has all the tools to meet those first-round-pick expectations. Speed, open-field shiftiness, downfield vision, cat-like quickness - Felix Jones has the tools and looks to be a perfect complement to Marion Barber. In fact, don't be surprised if he's getting a few more carries on his own in a one-back formation.

John Clayton - From the inbox

Q: Felix Jones? What can I expect? I mean how many touches? All they ever talk about is him catching the ball. Is he going to take snaps as a real running back or what? - Steven

A: No knock on Patrick Crayton, but Jones was the third best receiver I saw in the Cowboys camp behind Terrell Owens and Jason Witten. Jones, Darren McFadden and Chris Johnson will be the rookies making the biggest impact catching the ball out of the backfield this season. Jones looks natural running routes from the backfield. He makes defenders miss him when he runs in the open field. I can figure him for about 10 carries and four or five catches a game.

 

[BigTex]

Rookie Jones’ running style a cut above mostBy CLARENCE E. HILL JR.chill@star-telegram.comStar-Telegram/Ron JenkinsRookie running back Felix Jones is already a fan favorite at Cowboys training camp in Oxnard, Calif. Star-Telegram/Ron Jenkins OXNARD, Calif. — Calling them Thunder and Lightning might be a little trite if not premature.And it’s probably been used enough.But after Saturday’s preseason opener against San Diego, is there any doubt that rookie running back Felix Jones has a certain electricity about him that goes hand-and-hand with starter Marion Barber’s battering-ram style?Two days later, the Cowboys were still buzzing about Jones’ performance, which featured a 19-yard run and going 28 yards on a simple swing pass.The first-round pick from Arkansas showed cutting ability, quickness and acceleration that haven’t been seen in Dallas since the days of Hall of Famer Tony Dorsett."It’s exciting watching him run," linebacker Bradie James said."Barber excites us another way. He is the pounder, the bruiser. Now we have the finesse guy in Felix. Anytime he touches the ball, he has big-play potential."With rookie fourth-round pick Tashard Choice gaining 40 yards on seven carries, including a 19-yard touchdown, the Cowboys have the makings of a nice running back trio. Barber rushed four times for 24 carries in a cameo appearance against the Chargers.However, Jones is the one everyone is still talking about. His phone hasn’t stopped ringing from well-wishers back in Arkansas and his hometown of Tulsa. "It was fun," Jones said. "My teammates were happy for me. I just wanted to go out there and show the fans, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys that Jerry made a good pick."The satisfying part for the Cowboys is that this is exactly what they envisioned on draft day when they made a somewhat controversial decision to choose Jones over former Illinois star Rashard Mendenhall. The Cowboys pegged him as a better fit, even though he backed up the Oakland Raiders’ top pick, Darren McFadden, at Arkansas. "We envisioned that if you can combine that with Marion’s style you can put more pressure on the defense," running backs coach Skip Peete said. "Obviously, he showed he’s capable of taking the ball the distance at any time." Said coach Wade Phillips, "He showed the ability to get away from people and accelerate in the open field. He just has that dimension of being in space. He took that swing pass and two or three guys are out there and he makes 28 yards and almost a touchdown."His big-play ability was a dimension the offense lacked in the past with Julius Jones splitting time with Barber.Only four times in his four-year career with the Cowboys did Julius Jones have a run and catch of longer than 15 yards in the same game. He did it once in 2004, twice in 2005 and once in 2006. None last season.The Cowboys also noted the professional and mature way Jones has handled himself in practices and during the game. He is showing that the game and the moment aren’t too big for him.But don’t dismiss Jones’ low-key style for a lack of passion. He knows he was overshadowed by McFadden in college and is motivated to show the world he is a great back in his own right."People underestimate me," Jones said. "I didn’t get to showcase what I can do. I am going to do that to the fullest when I get a chance to get my hands on the ball."The Cowboys plan to do that as much as possible. He will return kicks, split out at receiver and run a two-back set, with Barber at fullback."We have studied a lot of people that have backs with his type of ability and style," Peete said. "We are trying to match that with Marion and use them both in the backfield at the same time."We have some ideas," Peete added with a smile.

 

[hauser42]

I liked Jones coming in as #3 or #4RB on my teams this year but his value is going keep going up if he keeps it up and some one will grab him before I see him as a value. Barber still has to show he can carry the full load and I think Jones will get more carries than most think he will.

Jones is right now one of the risers in the draft when it comes to RBs, interesting to see how high he goes this year.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Training Camp Ends

2. Young, But Ready - First-round pick Felix Jones has what it takes. Ok, he's played just one preseason game, and only a quarter at that. But he showed enough in that limited time, and with a few glimpses here in camp, to let us know that he certainly has all the tools to meet those first-round-pick expectations. Speed, open-field shiftiness, downfield vision, cat-like quickness - Felix Jones has the tools and looks to be a perfect complement to Marion Barber. In fact, don't be surprised if he's getting a few more carries on his own in a one-back formation.

John Clayton - From the inbox

Q: Felix Jones? What can I expect? I mean how many touches? All they ever talk about is him catching the ball. Is he going to take snaps as a real running back or what? - Steven

A: No knock on Patrick Crayton, but Jones was the third best receiver I saw in the Cowboys camp behind Terrell Owens and Jason Witten. Jones, Darren McFadden and Chris Johnson will be the rookies making the biggest impact catching the ball out of the backfield this season. Jones looks natural running routes from the backfield. He makes defenders miss him when he runs in the open field. I can figure him for about 10 carries and four or five catches a game.

4 or 5 catches a game would be absolutely huge.

 

[joffer]

i'd bet my mortgage Jones doesn't catch 70+ passes

 

[davearm]

i'd bet my mortgage Jones doesn't catch 70+ passes

That should've read, four or five catches some games.

 

[Tyrion]

i'd bet my mortgage Jones doesn't catch 70+ passes

That should've read, four or five catches some games.

Considering Julius only caught 23 balls last season, 70 would be quite optimistic. Of course there is the fact that Julius couldn't catch or be elusive after the catch so I could definitely see Felix catching 50+ balls if he stays healthy.

 

[switz]

i'd bet my mortgage Jones doesn't catch 70+ passes

Probably bet that Bush wouldn't see 70+ catches his rookie season either, and the Saints actually had more than one WR on their team.He had 2 receptions in a quarter's work of football in the first preseason game. Sure it's preseason, but they're going to use him in the passing game A LOT

 

[Gr00vus]

If they keep showcasing him in preseason he'll move from bargain to overvalued in a hurry - you guys who really want him on your rosters should probably tone the cheer leading down a bit if you want to get him at value. I can already see that he'll be drafted too early in most of my drafts the way things are going.

Good news for the Cowboy fans though - he'll definitely add another dimension.

 

[switz]

linky

Rookie running back Felix Jones certainly has the speed and quickness, but his upper-body strength isn't too bad either. Ask Broncos cornerback Dre' Bly, who was sent to the ground by a Jones' stiff-arm to the chest during an outside sweep in a team drill . . .

So much for him being weak due to his poor bench press performance.

 

[joefootball]

Why do people continue to post about the same player over and over to tell us how great they are? If they really want this player wouldnt it be in their best interest to tone down their passion for that player?

 

[Banger]

Why do people continue to post about the same player over and over to tell us how great they are? If they really want this player wouldnt it be in their best interest to tone down their passion for that player?

if everyone did that it wouldn't be much of a message board.....

 

[switz]

Why do people continue to post about the same player over and over to tell us how great they are? If they really want this player wouldnt it be in their best interest to tone down their passion for that player?

Well I could start a new thread for each news clipping.I'm sure you have all the time to read all the news about every player, but some of us don't. So a thread which keeps people up to date generally is appreciated.

 

[Steady Mooobin]

Why do people continue to post about the same player over and over to tell us how great they are? If they really want this player wouldnt it be in their best interest to tone down their passion for that player?

Because not everyone reads this site?Because most of us don't play together?Because this is a fantasy football message board?Because they really like that player and want others input?

 

[joefootball]

Sounds good. Guess I just dont get some of the posts that repeat themselves.

 

[switz]

Well, now that my drafts are over (well I do have ONE left, but none of those guys frequent here) I'll resurrect this thread... gotta love this comment

PFW - Fantasy Extras 8/21

Dallas

Don’t be too eager to buy into the idea that the departure of Julius Jones will lead to increased work and even bigger numbers for Marion Barber. I think Barber continues to share carries, this time with rookies Felix Jones and Tashard Choice rather than Jones. And by the way, Jones and Choice have both looked good in preseason action, especially Jones. It may even be possible that Jones ends up having a better rookie year than his more heralded University of Arkansas teammate, Darren McFadden.

 

[⚡DEADHEAD⚡]

Semi-related note: Felix is covered a fair amount on HBO's "Hard Knocks" - and he looks freakin' great - but Marion is nowhere to be seen. Anybody know why?

 

[shader]

Well, now that my drafts are over (well I do have ONE left, but none of those guys frequent here) I'll resurrect this thread... gotta love this comment

PFW - Fantasy Extras 8/21

Dallas

Don’t be too eager to buy into the idea that the departure of Julius Jones will lead to increased work and even bigger numbers for Marion Barber. I think Barber continues to share carries, this time with rookies Felix Jones and Tashard Choice rather than Jones. And by the way, Jones and Choice have both looked good in preseason action, especially Jones. It may even be possible that Jones ends up having a better rookie year than his more heralded University of Arkansas teammate, Darren McFadden.

That's absolutely ridiculous. There is no way Felix will have a better rookie year than Mcfadden unless Mcfadden gets injured.McFadden has clear sailing to the starting spot in Oakland.

Felix Jones has a rather large obstacle in Marion Barber.

Jones may get 60-70 total yards rushing and receiving, but he won't get the goalline carries and Barber is the workhorse here. I think Marion Barber breaks out bigtime this year. One of the best RB's in the league. An absolute animal. He won't last 5+ years due to his running style, but he's going to put up some big numbers over the next 4 years.

 

[Silver & Black]

Well, now that my drafts are over (well I do have ONE left, but none of those guys frequent here) I'll resurrect this thread... gotta love this comment

PFW - Fantasy Extras 8/21

Dallas

Don’t be too eager to buy into the idea that the departure of Julius Jones will lead to increased work and even bigger numbers for Marion Barber. I think Barber continues to share carries, this time with rookies Felix Jones and Tashard Choice rather than Jones. And by the way, Jones and Choice have both looked good in preseason action, especially Jones. It may even be possible that Jones ends up having a better rookie year than his more heralded University of Arkansas teammate, Darren McFadden.

That's absolutely ridiculous. There is no way Felix will have a better rookie year than Mcfadden unless Mcfadden gets injured.McFadden has clear sailing to the starting spot in Oakland.

Felix Jones has a rather large obstacle in Marion Barber.

Jones may get 60-70 total yards rushing and receiving, but he won't get the goalline carries and Barber is the workhorse here. I think Marion Barber breaks out bigtime this year. One of the best RB's in the league. An absolute animal. He won't last 5+ years due to his running style, but he's going to put up some big numbers over the next 4 years.

I'm not sure about how much Felix Jones contributes in Dallas this year, I'm a big Barber fan. I think he runs like a beast and is a very, very solid back. But I can say, I think you are wrong in your analysis of McFadden for 2008.For all the woes in Oakland, the one thing they do well is run block. People forget how good Michael Bush was in college before breaking his leg. Well, he's had over a year to recover, and I'm here to tell you, he's looked great in camp. Fargas has also looked very good.

That being said, I think Oakland is going to have a very good year running the ball. Which is great for the Raiders...but not so much for fantasyballers. IMO, McFadden isn't going to be given the "starting job" as you say and the Oakland rushing attack is going to be the definition of a three headed committee.

 

[switz]

Well, now that my drafts are over (well I do have ONE left, but none of those guys frequent here) I'll resurrect this thread... gotta love this comment

PFW - Fantasy Extras 8/21

Dallas

Don’t be too eager to buy into the idea that the departure of Julius Jones will lead to increased work and even bigger numbers for Marion Barber. I think Barber continues to share carries, this time with rookies Felix Jones and Tashard Choice rather than Jones. And by the way, Jones and Choice have both looked good in preseason action, especially Jones. It may even be possible that Jones ends up having a better rookie year than his more heralded University of Arkansas teammate, Darren McFadden.

That's absolutely ridiculous. There is no way Felix will have a better rookie year than Mcfadden unless Mcfadden gets injured.McFadden has clear sailing to the starting spot in Oakland.

Felix Jones has a rather large obstacle in Marion Barber.

Jones may get 60-70 total yards rushing and receiving, but he won't get the goalline carries and Barber is the workhorse here. I think Marion Barber breaks out bigtime this year. One of the best RB's in the league. An absolute animal. He won't last 5+ years due to his running style, but he's going to put up some big numbers over the next 4 years.

I'm not sure about how much Felix Jones contributes in Dallas this year, I'm a big Barber fan. I think he runs like a beast and is a very, very solid back. But I can say, I think you are wrong in your analysis of McFadden for 2008.For all the woes in Oakland, the one thing they do well is run block. People forget how good Michael Bush was in college before breaking his leg. Well, he's had over a year to recover, and I'm here to tell you, he's looked great in camp. Fargas has also looked very good.

That being said, I think Oakland is going to have a very good year running the ball. Which is great for the Raiders...but not so much for fantasyballers. IMO, McFadden isn't going to be given the "starting job" as you say and the Oakland rushing attack is going to be the definition of a three headed committee.

As is Dallas with Barber, Jones, and Choice. (I think Choice has a very small role though, like Bush in OAK.)

 

[Bankerguy]

Semi-related note: Felix is covered a fair amount on HBO's "Hard Knocks" - and he looks freakin' great - but Marion is nowhere to be seen. Anybody know why?

He is almost as shy as Ricky Williams.

 

[Traders2001]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.

I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

 

[RBM]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

You ever see Barber run? He is too physical to be an every down back.Jones will play alot.

 

[switz]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

 

[Phurfur]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.

I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

Yes, we only want positive comments in this thread.

 

[switz]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.

I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

Yes, we only want positive comments in this thread.

My point was there is a ton of info in this thread that indicates Barber will NOT be THE every down back, and Jones will not be limited to 7 touches a game. If the guy wants to believe that, he's better served not reading this thread.

 

[davearm]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

 

[Phurfur]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.

I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

Yes, we only want positive comments in this thread.

My point was there is a ton of info in this thread that indicates Barber will NOT be THE every down back, and Jones will not be limited to 7 touches a game. If the guy wants to believe that, he's better served not reading this thread.

Yeah but all I was saying is that it is his opinion and he was posting in he right place. Aren't all opinions welcome? and what if he was right??

 

[Jedimaster21]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

This is good info. I always loved Felix as a prospect, but I definitely thought they would use him to return kickoffs. He is tremendously talented when it comes to that aspect of the game. This is a good sign for the future prospects of his work load.

 

[packersfan]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season. Just my 2 cents.

 

[Phurfur]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season.

Just my 2 cents.

and worth every penny!

 

[switz]

I cant understand why some of you are so high on him . Whe are not even talking 3rd down back here Barber can play every down.

I see him getting like 5 carries and 1 - 2 rec a game that s it.

I think you are in the wrong thread if you really want to believe that.BTW - Wade Phillips has already said they won't use Felix on Special Teams because he's become "an integral part of our offense." That doesn't sound like 5 carries and 1-2 receptions. But believe what you will. It's your loss if you overdraft Barber, or miss out on Jones.

Yes, we only want positive comments in this thread.

My point was there is a ton of info in this thread that indicates Barber will NOT be THE every down back, and Jones will not be limited to 7 touches a game. If the guy wants to believe that, he's better served not reading this thread.

Yeah but all I was saying is that it is his opinion and he was posting in he right place. Aren't all opinions welcome? and what if he was right??

That's fair... I think I misunderstood your reply. I wasn't saying he was unwelcome here, which is what I thought you assumed based on your reply.

 

[switz]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season.

Just my 2 cents.

I think both will see enough opportunity to be solid #2 RBs, and borderline #1 RBs.

 

[packersfan]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season.

Just my 2 cents.

I think both will see enough opportunity to be solid #2 RBs, and borderline #1 RBs.

I'm a big Felix fan but I don't see him doing that much unless Barber gets hurt. He'll need a healthy number of TDs and we all know Barber is a monster at gobbling up touchdowns. I don't see Felix cracking the Top 20 which is where I would place a solid RB2. I could see him finishing around 25 or so, making him a RB3 who will deliver RB2 production at various times during the season. I know you're not a big Barber fan but I think you're underrating how productive he has proven to be and how much the Cowboys will continue to rely on him. Barber isn't going away and I don't see his touches being reduced significantly. There's no reason they should. The guy has been damn good.

 

[Jedimaster21]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season.

Just my 2 cents.

I think both will see enough opportunity to be solid #2 RBs, and borderline #1 RBs.

I'm a big Felix fan but I don't see him doing that much unless Barber gets hurt. He'll need a healthy number of TDs and we all know Barber is a monster at gobbling up touchdowns. I don't see Felix cracking the Top 20 which is where I would place a solid RB2. I could see him finishing around 25 or so, making him a RB3 who will deliver RB2 production at various times during the season. I know you're not a big Barber fan but I think you're underrating how productive he has proven to be and how much the Cowboys will continue to rely on him. Barber isn't going away and I don't see his touches being reduced significantly. There's no reason they should. The guy has been damn good.

I think this is a very accurate assessment. Barber will take the lead role, but in PPR leagues Felix will still hold value. The offense should be good enough to keep both scoring a lot. The real value will be in three years when Barber is reaching the end of his prime and Felix is square in the center of his.

 

[switz]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Jones get the same amount of action as Julius Jones did. The usage pattern won't be exactly the same, but the number of touches should be very similar IMO.

I could see something along those lines only with Barber getting a few more carries than he got in the past per game and Felix getting more receptions than Julius did. What I think is being lost is both Dallas RBs had the potential to deliver for fantasy owners the past two seasons but only Barber did. Julius Jones failed but it wasn't for a lack of opportunity. So if the breakdown is similar - and at this point I've seen no indication to believe Barber is headed for a reduction in touches - then both Barber and Felix could be fine fantasy options this year. Barber has been a Top 10 RB the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare so he could definitely deliver there again, making him a fine first-round pick. If Felix is more talented than Julius (and I believe he is), then he could be a fine RB3 who delivers RB2 production at various times during the season.

Just my 2 cents.

I think both will see enough opportunity to be solid #2 RBs, and borderline #1 RBs.

I'm a big Felix fan but I don't see him doing that much unless Barber gets hurt. He'll need a healthy number of TDs and we all know Barber is a monster at gobbling up touchdowns. I don't see Felix cracking the Top 20 which is where I would place a solid RB2. I could see him finishing around 25 or so, making him a RB3 who will deliver RB2 production at various times during the season. I know you're not a big Barber fan but I think you're underrating how productive he has proven to be and how much the Cowboys will continue to rely on him. Barber isn't going away and I don't see his touches being reduced significantly. There's no reason they should. The guy has been damn good.

I don't expect Barber's touches to be reduced. It's funny that I have this knock of being not a big Barber fan, when I've never said he stinks or anything, I just have tried to present a realistic view of his opportunity.I'm on record that he'll have around 275 touches this year (250 carries, 25 receptions). He'll probably put up around 190 total FFP, and be borderline top-10.

But I believe Felix will have around 225 touches this year (150 carries, 75 receptions). FYI, Reggie, who they want to use Felix like, has had 155 & 88, 157 & 73 rush & receptions his first two seasons. It's a very realistic set of numbers for Felix.

I believe Felix is far more explosive than Barber is, or Julius was. I can see Felix maintaining a very high YPC and YPR, giving him easily over 1,000 total yards this season. I also feel with his breakaway ability, he won't really lose TDs to Barber.

I see Felix in the borderline RB 12 range... probably 15th or so is realistic, but if things go right he could be bottom of the #1 RBs. Bush finished last season in that area.

 

[packersfan]

I'm trying to be realistic too. Barber has been Top 10 despite being in a timeshare so if his touches aren't reduced (and there's no reason at this time to believe they will be), he's a good bet to finish in the Top 10 again. I think the big difference you and I have with Felix is I don't see him catching 75 passes. That would be an incredible number for a RB (Bush caught 88 in his rookie season as a comparison). I don't see him catching that many passes. I think he could get 40 but I'm not sure he gets more than 45-50.

 

[switz]

I'm trying to be realistic too. Barber has been Top 10 despite being in a timeshare so if his touches aren't reduced (and there's no reason at this time to believe they will be), he's a good bet to finish in the Top 10 again. I think the big difference you and I have with Felix is I don't see him catching 75 passes. That would be an incredible number for a RB (Bush caught 88 in his rookie season as a comparison). I don't see him catching that many passes. I think he could get 40 but I'm not sure he gets more than 45-50.

As I pointed out, Bush has had 88 and 73 his first two seasons. The teams would like Felix to catch the ball 4-5 times per game, that's 64-80 times a season. Sure 75 is on the higher end of that range, 72 is the median.As for Barber, last season his PPT (points per touch) decreased significantly. I don't see an increase in touches boosting him up that much.

 

[packersfan]

I think Barber is a safe Top 10 RB. He's produced there the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare. If he gets more touches his potential increases. But at worst, barring injury, he should be a rock-solid Top 10 RB in my opinion.

For Jones to crack the Top 20 (barring an injury to Barber) I think he'll need either a healthy number of touchdowns and/or a healthy number of touches. I don't see him catching 75 passes the way you do. The Cowboys have never shown much of an inclination to throw to their RBs the past couple of years and while Jones presents a different option than what they've had I don't see them nearly doubling the number of receptions their RBs have been receiving. If I end up drafting Jones I hope you're right but it's extremely difficult for me to project more than 40 receptions for him at this time.

 

[switz]

I think Barber is a safe Top 10 RB. He's produced there the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare. If he gets more touches his potential increases. But at worst, barring injury, he should be a rock-solid Top 10 RB in my opinion.For Jones to crack the Top 20 (barring an injury to Barber) I think he'll need either a healthy number of touchdowns and/or a healthy number of touches. I don't see him catching 75 passes the way you do. The Cowboys have never shown much of an inclination to throw to their RBs the past couple of years and while Jones presents a different option than what they've had I don't see them nearly doubling the number of receptions their RBs have been receiving. If I end up drafting Jones I hope you're right but it's extremely difficult for me to project more than 40 receptions for him at this time.

They threw combined to Jones and Barber like 60 times last year. Barber himself had over 40. The Boys throw to their backs. Plus Felix will take some catches from Witten.

 

[Pimpin Ain't Easy]

I'm trying to be realistic too. Barber has been Top 10 despite being in a timeshare so if his touches aren't reduced (and there's no reason at this time to believe they will be), he's a good bet to finish in the Top 10 again. I think the big difference you and I have with Felix is I don't see him catching 75 passes. That would be an incredible number for a RB (Bush caught 88 in his rookie season as a comparison). I don't see him catching that many passes. I think he could get 40 but I'm not sure he gets more than 45-50.

As I pointed out, Bush has had 88 and 73 his first two seasons. The teams would like Felix to catch the ball 4-5 times per game, that's 64-80 times a season. Sure 75 is on the higher end of that range, 72 is the median.As for Barber, last season his PPT (points per touch) decreased significantly. I don't see an increase in touches boosting him up that much.

Realisticly, Bush did not have Jason Witten to compete for receptions with either. Big difference in that Bush had been the #2 option in the passing game, while Felix will be the # 3 option at best.I do expect 40-50 balls, but 75 is not gonna happen IMO.

 

[RudeDog]

As an MB3 owner, I hope that it's just preseason hype. Granted, I think he'll get some time, but I just hope Mb3 will get majority of the time. :crossesfingers:

This is what gets me....Every time someone states that a backup running back should be moved up in the rankings shouldn't that mean that the starter should be moved down. I mean the offense is the same so more produxction from the #2 means less for the #1.Do you really want to move MBIII down in your rankings ?????

 

[packersfan]

I think Barber is a safe Top 10 RB. He's produced there the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare. If he gets more touches his potential increases. But at worst, barring injury, he should be a rock-solid Top 10 RB in my opinion.For Jones to crack the Top 20 (barring an injury to Barber) I think he'll need either a healthy number of touchdowns and/or a healthy number of touches. I don't see him catching 75 passes the way you do. The Cowboys have never shown much of an inclination to throw to their RBs the past couple of years and while Jones presents a different option than what they've had I don't see them nearly doubling the number of receptions their RBs have been receiving. If I end up drafting Jones I hope you're right but it's extremely difficult for me to project more than 40 receptions for him at this time.

They threw combined to Jones and Barber like 60 times last year. Barber himself had over 40. The Boys throw to their backs. Plus Felix will take some catches from Witten.

Barber and Jones combined for 67 receptions last season. Barber had 44. Even if you reduce Barber's receptions to 35 (I don't think it's realistic to project him to lose half of his receptions), that leaves 30+ for Jones. Even if you assume the Cowboys throw more to their RBs this season that could result in about 10 more receptions for Felix. That bring him to the 40 range I mentioned previously. I just don't think it's realistic to expect the Cowboys to throw that significantly more to their RBs. That would be a huge departure from how they have run their offense in the past and given how good Owens and Witten are, I don't think there's any reason for them to make such a significant alteration. I realize Felix is pretty talented. As I said, I like him a lot and I know the Cowboys do too. But there are only so many receptions to go around and given how strong Owens and Witten are in the passing game, I'm not sure it makes sense to take a lot away from them just so Felix gets some.I think 40-45 receptions for Felix is a safe and realistic projection. I'm just not comfortable projecting any more even though I do like him and am targeting him.

 

[ConstruxBoy]

I think Barber is a safe Top 10 RB. He's produced there the past two seasons despite being in a timeshare. If he gets more touches his potential increases. But at worst, barring injury, he should be a rock-solid Top 10 RB in my opinion.For Jones to crack the Top 20 (barring an injury to Barber) I think he'll need either a healthy number of touchdowns and/or a healthy number of touches. I don't see him catching 75 passes the way you do. The Cowboys have never shown much of an inclination to throw to their RBs the past couple of years and while Jones presents a different option than what they've had I don't see them nearly doubling the number of receptions their RBs have been receiving. If I end up drafting Jones I hope you're right but it's extremely difficult for me to project more than 40 receptions for him at this time.

They threw combined to Jones and Barber like 60 times last year. Barber himself had over 40. The Boys throw to their backs. Plus Felix will take some catches from Witten.

You think Jones is going to be stealing targets from Witten? On what basis?

 

[thenipper]

Everyone needs to use the awesome tools of this website. Use the player search tool for this debate. Search for Julius Jones and look at the news for 2007.Now, just change the Julius to Felix and 2007 to 2008 and does it sound any different than the hyped news you are reading today?!Pretty obvious that Felix Jones will be used similar to Julius Jones. We saw the same thing last year. So, you will have a few good games, but MBIII is still their main workhorse.And, who do you think will get the ball inside the 20. MBIII just smells the endzone and you can't keep him out! I love his work ethic!Moral: Use all the footballguys tools available so you can get the whole picture!

the difference is JJ was very ineffective. the hope is that FJ has better vision and instincts.

Doesn't change anything. Felix will get touches and he will be used so MBIII doesn't get worn out with his running style. Felix is there to keep MBIII fresh and provide a change of pace. And, MBIII will get the ball when they are in the red zone 90% of the time just like last year!Obviously, you didn't read the news like I suggested.

 

[Burning Sensation]

I like Jones, and I think he will put up good numbers, but no way he catches more than 50 passes.