Four players I have to have this year (1 Viewer)

[ceo3west]

I subscribe to the theory that every player has value and you shouldn't love or hate player, but each year I find myself enthralled with certain guys - it's just that "feeling" that these guys are on the verge of a great year and I will pay the price to get these guys. Here's my short list this year:

Jay Cutler - In a GREAT situation, and I beleive he'll land in the top 10 this year worst case. Shanahan's most talented QB since Elway has a ton of weapons at his disposal. The last five games of 2006 showed what he is capable of, and I beleive you'll see a full year of that production in 2007.

Marshawn Lynch - No competition in Buf (A-train? cmon..), and the team will re-commit to the run this year with a revamped O-Line. A dual-threat out of the backfield on an offense (and team) that is on the rise. I look for big things here. Solid RB2 worst case, RB1 numbers possible.

Reggie Brown - WR1 in a pass-happy offense that finds ways to get the ball to WR's no matter who the wideouts are. Brown is very talented, and I beleive he'll have his best year yet. Top 10 a very real possibility.

Vernon Davis - His stock is already rising and may be as hyped this year as Ben Watson was last year, but I don't care. I think a huge year is in store for this guy. He is a freak, and I think will be the #1 TE in fantasy for years to come. He may not reach that status this year. but I see a minimum of 800 yards and 8-10 TD's nevertheless.

Feedback is welcome - and if anyone has there own list of "must-have's" please share.

 

[jkruppe]

It's only June, but I'm warming up to:

Vince Young. Last year's fantasy Vick?

Jerricho Cotchery in a newly invigorated NYJ offense

I agree with the OP about Reggie Brown, but I think Kevin Curtis can be had much cheaper

Chris Brown with the Titans. He finally figures it out.

 

[FFRainKing]

I try not to reach in the first three rounds but here are some guys I hope to grab beginning in the 4th round and beyond.

DeAngelo Williams - kid looked explosive when given the chance last year and new zone blocking scheme should help his style of running. Could be great value if you can grab him in the 5th round

Jon Kitna - I never take a QB in the first 5 rounds unless I get a gift (e.g. Palmer in the 4th). Kinta has another year of experience with Martz and now has Calvin Johnson. Great numbers last year and in the perfect situation to produce big fantasy numbers .

Jason Witten - Romo getting comfy in Dallas, TO/Glenn getting older and from what I have been reading new coach will wants to open things up

Deion Branch - thought Djax was always an average WR but put up great numbers, Branch is more talented and should have a repport with Hass now. Plus NFC West wil have high scoring games with all the offensive talent in that division

 

[On The Rocks]

I haven't warmed up to anyone yet.

Although I will be happy to grab Jamal Lewis if he happens to still be available in the 8th round.

 

[ceo3west]

I try not to reach in the first three rounds but here are some guys I hope to grab beginning in the 4th round and beyond.

DeAngelo Williams - kid looked explosive when given the chance last year and new zone blocking scheme should help his style of running. Could be great value if you can grab him in the 5th round

Jon Kitna - I never take a QB in the first 5 rounds unless I get a gift (e.g. Palmer in the 4th). Kinta has another year of experience with Martz and now has Calvin Johnson. Great numbers last year and in the perfect situation to produce big fantasy numbers .

Jason Witten - Romo getting comfy in Dallas, TO/Glenn getting older and from what I have been reading new coach will wants to open things up

Deion Branch - thought Djax was always an average WR but put up great numbers, Branch is more talented and should have a repport with Hass now. Plus NFC West wil have high scoring games with all the offensive talent in that division

I like these picks, but I'm not sold that Williams will get enough carries to be considered a steal in the 5th rd. I know Foster hasn't lived up to the hype, but as long as he's healthy I can't see him riding pine. Best case for Williams (assuming Foster is healthy), they are splitting carries 50/50.

 

[LionsFan78]

Of course I'm not going to go into the studs that everyone wants on their teams, so here's some of the 'other' guys I'd like. I won't necessarily screw my draft just to have these guys, but here's a few of mine...

Santonio Holmes, WR, PIT - I have a gut feeling that he outscores Ward in fantasy points this year. I also want Jerricho Cotchery for many of the same reasons.

Vernon Davis, TE, SF - No need to explain. I just want him, bad.

Vernand Morency, RB, GB - This one's a little iffy, but I want him for two reasons. 1) Possible starting RB at a cheap price, and 2) Great SELL HIGH candidate for the start of the season. Of course we'll have to wait till training camp, but I'm pretty sure he'll at least start out atop the depth chart.

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, SEA - I really want this guy this year. If one of the top studs doesn't fall to me at a fair price, I think this guy will be solid. And coming off an injury year, I don't think I'll have to reach for him one bit.

Olindo Mare, K, NO - Spare me the kicker bashing, I think this is the 'out of nowhere' top five kicker this year. Even if NO's defense stays exactly the same as last year, he will benefit from that offense. I'd have no problem picking him up after everyone else reaches.

 

[FFRainKing]

I haven't warmed up to anyone yet.Although I will be happy to grab Jamal Lewis if he happens to still be available in the 8th round.

I like this call, Jamal seems to be in good shape and not a lot of real competition for carries in CLE. 8th might be wishful thinking but he seems to be slipping pretty far in mocks.

 

[ceo3west]

Of course I'm not going to go into the studs that everyone wants on their teams, so here's some of the 'other' guys I'd like. I won't necessarily screw my draft just to have these guys, but here's a few of mine...

Santonio Holmes, WR, PIT - I have a gut feeling that he outscores Ward in fantasy points this year. I also want Jerricho Cotchery for many of the same reasons.

Vernon Davis, TE, SF - No need to explain. I just want him, bad.

Vernand Morency, RB, GB - This one's a little iffy, but I want him for two reasons. 1) Possible starting RB at a cheap price, and 2) Great SELL HIGH candidate for the start of the season. Of course we'll have to wait till training camp, but I'm pretty sure he'll at least start out atop the depth chart.

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, SEA - I really want this guy this year. If one of the top studs doesn't fall to me at a fair price, I think this guy will be solid. And coming off an injury year, I don't think I'll have to reach for him one bit.

Olindo Mare, K, NO - Spare me the kicker bashing, I think this is the 'out of nowhere' top five kicker this year. Even if NO's defense stays exactly the same as last year, he will benefit from that offense. I'd have no problem picking him up after everyone else reaches.

I'm wavering on Morency - I like him, but something about him scares me. I like Holmes a lot. I see a bounceback from big Ben and Holmes will be a big part of it.

 

[dudaman]

Tom Brady - imagine the possibilities.

Thomas Jones - poised for a top 5 performance.

Brandon Marshall - for the same reasons ceo3west likes Cutler above.

Reggie Bush - he's just special and will blow last year away

Great topic, by the way.

 

[gman8343]

Thomas Jones - poised for a top 5 performance.

Now that would be surprising to me. Possible, but unlikely IMO.

 

[David Yudkin]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

 

[Pittsburgh United]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

 

[sholditch]

I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots

for me:

D-Will: Explosive back and should, nay will, see over 65% of the carries

KWII: Third highest yardage totals yet usually taken around TE5. Good value if falls to 7th or later

Rivers: The next Carson Palmer IMO, could easily break 3700 passing and I put his ceiling at 30 TDs and floor somewhere around 20. Typically going around QB9

Trent Green: One year removed from 5 straight 4,000 yard passing seasons, and going usually around QB10-12. Excellent value this year

Benson: Granted I'm a Bears homer and have been in Benson's corner for a while, but I really think he could end up top 10 which would constitute good value since he typically goes RB14. He's passed McGahee and Tjones in my RB rankings and is looking to overtake Maroney and Ronnie Brown

Galloway: Been able to snag him in round 7 or later in most mocks this year. He'll be better than last year with garcia around. He could easily hit 1200 and 8 TDs.

Deuce McAllister: Once again Bush is getting all the hype and going about 4 rounds earlier. His numbers last year were solid for a RB3 or a RB2 in 12+ leagues. I don't see his role changing much and he should still get the majority of the work inside and at the GL. The NO passing attack will keep defenses off and lanes wide.

 

[NCJetsFan]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots"

It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

 

[David Yudkin]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

At this point I think every poster has included one player I am leary of and some 2 or 3. You can check out who I picked in the staff over/under valued article that will be out soon.

 

[Banger]

I don't have to have any player. There will be a number of players I will target and ones I will avoid.

 

[I'm Rick James]

Greg Jennings - Started off last year on a tear. Can be had cheap and has great upside. Favre will be chucking it to him and Driver.

Galloway - he can be drafted relatively late and will put up 1000 yards and 6-8 td's. Garcia is an upgrade over last years qb trash in Tampa. He may not have a big arm, but he'll find Galloway.

Kitna - Tons of weapons, Martz, and second year in the system. However, I'm concerned that the Kitna hype is in full effect. I've recently been in a mock where he went 5th round (12 team).

Marcus Pollard - this is a late TE -- 2nd Te on your team with upside. He's got soft hands, has low mileage, and was only used to block in Detroit as Martz doesn't throw to the TE. Now in Seattle, Djax gone, I think Hasselback will use him.

Adrian Peterson - Minnesota will be running the ball. Even with C. Taylor, he will get enough carries/catches to be effective. Similar to Reggie/Deuce situation last year in N.O. Yes, their QB is far inferior than Drew Brees, but I think Minny's D steps up this year. Another team in their division found success in the running game with the enigmatic Rex Grossman at the helm.

 

[perry147]

I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots

for me:

D-Will: Explosive back and should, nay will, see over 65% of the carries

KWII: Third highest yardage totals yet usually taken around TE5. Good value if falls to 7th or later

Rivers: The next Carson Palmer IMO, could easily break 3700 passing and I put his ceiling at 30 TDs and floor somewhere around 20. Typically going around QB9

Trent Green: One year removed from 5 straight 4,000 yard passing seasons, and going usually around QB10-12. Excellent value this year

Benson: Granted I'm a Bears homer and have been in Benson's corner for a while, but I really think he could end up top 10 which would constitute good value since he typically goes RB14. He's passed McGahee and Tjones in my RB rankings and is looking to overtake Maroney and Ronnie Brown

Galloway: Been able to snag him in round 7 or later in most mocks this year. He'll be better than last year with garcia around. He could easily hit 1200 and 8 TDs.

Deuce McAllister: Once again Bush is getting all the hype and going about 4 rounds earlier. His numbers last year were solid for a RB3 or a RB2 in 12+ leagues. I don't see his role changing much and he should still get the majority of the work inside and at the GL. The NO passing attack will keep defenses off and lanes wide.

Rivers will never be that productive with LT2 in the lineup. The offense would have to focus around him and I can not imagine that will happen unless LT and MT are both hurt.:twocents:

 

[brednbuddah]

Thomas Jones - poised for a top 5 performance.

Now that would be surprising to me. Possible, but unlikely IMO.

I would love to see it happen, but I just don't see him getting the workload necessary for a top 5 finish.

 

[ceo3west]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

At this point I think every poster has included one player I am leary of and some 2 or 3. You can check out who I picked in the staff over/under valued article that will be out soon.

Is it the same artice from the mag? None of your overvalued players from that article were on my list above. I'm curious as to which of my picks you're leary of.

 

[David Yudkin]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

At this point I think every poster has included one player I am leary of and some 2 or 3. You can check out who I picked in the staff over/under valued article that will be out soon.

Is it the same artice from the mag? None of your overvalued players from that article were on my list above. I'm curious as to which of my picks you're leary of.

Different article. There is another one for the website. But since you asked . . .I'm torn on Cutler. Yes, he did well for a few games last year but I see a return to the ground game that struggled compared to prior seasons. He didn't gel with Walker (at least last year), I'm not sold on Marshall, Smith is fraile and coming off an injury (as is Stokley). While it may seem critical, IMO there are about 10 guys after say the Top 7 or so QB that are interchangable based on where they should end the year in terms of production. i see Cutler falling in that grouping, so I don't view him as being a fantasy difference maker (even though he could produce ok numbers).I am also not gushing over Brown. Other then Owens, the Eagles have not really produced any standout wide receivers for whatever reasons. Sure, Stallworth started off well last year and had a couple other big games but he also had games where he disappeared. With an ADP of around 22, I am not sure he's a great investment although he's another one that could put up decent but IMO not phenomenal stats.

 

[ceo3west]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

At this point I think every poster has included one player I am leary of and some 2 or 3. You can check out who I picked in the staff over/under valued article that will be out soon.

Is it the same artice from the mag? None of your overvalued players from that article were on my list above. I'm curious as to which of my picks you're leary of.

Different article. There is another one for the website. But since you asked . . .I'm torn on Cutler. Yes, he did well for a few games last year but I see a return to the ground game that struggled compared to prior seasons. He didn't gel with Walker (at least last year), I'm not sold on Marshall, Smith is fraile and coming off an injury (as is Stokley). While it may seem critical, IMO there are about 10 guys after say the Top 7 or so QB that are interchangable based on where they should end the year in terms of production. i see Cutler falling in that grouping, so I don't view him as being a fantasy difference maker (even though he could produce ok numbers).I am also not gushing over Brown. Other then Owens, the Eagles have not really produced any standout wide receivers for whatever reasons. Sure, Stallworth started off well last year and had a couple other big games but he also had games where he disappeared. With an ADP of around 22, I am not sure he's a great investment although he's another one that could put up decent but IMO not phenomenal stats.

Thanks for the feedback. I hear you on Cutler - there certainly are question marks. However, with Brown, the Eagles haven't produced any solid WR's besides Owens because they've had guys like James Thrash and Todd Pinkston in the starting lineup the last 7 or so years. Brown has WAY more talent, and I think you'll see numbers this year closer to Owens than those other two stiffs.

 

[David Yudkin]

I find these threads intriguing because there will normally be players included that are on my players to avoid list . . .

So how about you play along and enlighten the rest of us?

At this point I think every poster has included one player I am leary of and some 2 or 3. You can check out who I picked in the staff over/under valued article that will be out soon.

Is it the same artice from the mag? None of your overvalued players from that article were on my list above. I'm curious as to which of my picks you're leary of.

Different article. There is another one for the website. But since you asked . . .I'm torn on Cutler. Yes, he did well for a few games last year but I see a return to the ground game that struggled compared to prior seasons. He didn't gel with Walker (at least last year), I'm not sold on Marshall, Smith is fraile and coming off an injury (as is Stokley). While it may seem critical, IMO there are about 10 guys after say the Top 7 or so QB that are interchangable based on where they should end the year in terms of production. i see Cutler falling in that grouping, so I don't view him as being a fantasy difference maker (even though he could produce ok numbers).I am also not gushing over Brown. Other then Owens, the Eagles have not really produced any standout wide receivers for whatever reasons. Sure, Stallworth started off well last year and had a couple other big games but he also had games where he disappeared. With an ADP of around 22, I am not sure he's a great investment although he's another one that could put up decent but IMO not phenomenal stats.

Thanks for the feedback. I hear you on Cutler - there certainly are question marks. However, with Brown, the Eagles haven't produced any solid WR's besides Owens because they've had guys like James Thrash and Todd Pinkston in the starting lineup the last 7 or so years. Brown has WAY more talent, and I think you'll see numbers this year closer to Owens than those other two stiffs.

I agree that at this point it looks like Brown could be more talented, but Stallworth, Mitchell, and Charles Johnson were all 1st round picks, Pinkston was a 2nd round pick, and couple of the other WR were 3rd rounders IIRC.

 

[kensat30]

I'm gonna agree that Reggie Brown should put up good stats this year. In fact, I think he is one of the potential difference makers at WR because of where he is drafted. Bottomline, I believe that Philadelphia is a great place for a WR right now. McNabb doesn't rush as much as he used to ever since TO was around, and if you look past his injuries you notice that his per game passing numbers are amazing. If it wasn't for his injury woes the past few seasons, I dare say that we would all be debating Manning vs. McNabb as QB#1 this year.

Just look at the torrid pace McNabb set last year WITHOUT Owens. Granted they had Stallworth last year and he lit up it for a few weeks. But during McNabb's "stretch" (9 games more than half a season), Stallworth was in and out of the lineup with injuries. Meanwhile, Reggie Brown was quietly one of the best fantasy WRs in the NFL during that time, and ended the year with 800/9 in only his second season in the NFL with a QB change mid-year. That is impressive.

9 games with McNabb at QB - 27/520/6 (prorate 48/920/11)

4 games with McNabb minus Stallworth - 19/383/4 (76/1532/16)

16 games actual - 46/816/9

So we see that Reggie Brown was better with McNabb and has the potential to play at a very high level with McNabb on his game. Four game stretches can mean nothing, and 9 game stretches will mean nothing if McNabb gets injured again, but doesn't it speak to you that Brown had his best 4 games of the season when both McNabb was at QB and Stallworth was out of the lineup? What happens if Brown becomes McNabb's goto target this year and both of them manage to stay healthy? Yet a guy like Laverneous Coles and even Braylon Edwards go ahead of him in drafts? (FBG ADP)? Be my guest...

 

[ceo3west]

I'm gonna agree that Reggie Brown should put up good stats this year. In fact, I think he is one of the potential difference makers at WR because of where he is drafted. Bottomline, I believe that Philadelphia is a great place for a WR right now. McNabb doesn't rush as much as he used to ever since TO was around, and if you look past his injuries you notice that his per game passing numbers are amazing. If it wasn't for his injury woes the past few seasons, I dare say that we would all be debating Manning vs. McNabb as QB#1 this year. Just look at the torrid pace McNabb set last year WITHOUT Owens. Granted they had Stallworth last year and he lit up it for a few weeks. But during McNabb's "stretch" (9 games more than half a season), Stallworth was in and out of the lineup with injuries. Meanwhile, Reggie Brown was quietly one of the best fantasy WRs in the NFL during that time, and ended the year with 800/9 in only his second season in the NFL with a QB change mid-year. That is impressive.9 games with McNabb at QB - 27/520/6 (prorate 48/920/11)4 games with McNabb minus Stallworth - 19/383/4 (76/1532/16)16 games actual - 46/816/9So we see that Reggie Brown was better with McNabb and has the potential to play at a very high level with McNabb on his game. Four game stretches can mean nothing, and 9 game stretches will mean nothing if McNabb gets injured again, but doesn't it speak to you that Brown had his best 4 games of the season when both McNabb was at QB and Stallworth was out of the lineup? What happens if Brown becomes McNabb's goto target this year and both of them manage to stay healthy? Yet a guy like Laverneous Coles and even Braylon Edwards go ahead of him in drafts? (FBG ADP)? Be my guest...

Nice post - Brown is on the rise and assuming McNabb stays healthy he should be a true fantasy WR1 this year. McNabb's health is a concern, but I'm betting he has at least one 16-game year left.

 

[vinwinephans]

I am also not gushing over Brown. Other then Owens, the Eagles have not really produced any standout wide receivers for whatever reasons. Sure, Stallworth started off well last year and had a couple other big games but he also had games where he disappeared. With an ADP of around 22, I am not sure he's a great investment although he's another one that could put up decent but IMO not phenomenal stats.

I agree that at this point it looks like Brown could be more talented, but Stallworth, Mitchell, and Charles Johnson were all 1st round picks, Pinkston was a 2nd round pick, and couple of the other WR were 3rd rounders IIRC.

Stallworth - good but injured - 1 year in Philly offense where McNabb got hurt.Mitchell - BUST.Pinkston - Smaller BUST, but still a BUST.Charles Johnson - 2 years, one with Pederson at QB and another with McNabb in his first year as starting QB. After those two years, he moved on and did much of nothing. One year over 1000 yards. 2 years over 3 TD's. 2 years over 60 receptions.The above WR's you site are poor WR's in general. Brown seems to be the WR where the Eagles FINALLY got it right.I would not hold Brown's cieling down because of the samples you suggest - I don't think they relate as well as it appears on the surface.We have seen what an established WR can do in the Eagles Offense and Brown continues to establish himself I can see top 10 fantasy WR. I can see that starting this year provided McNabb stays healthy.

 

[David Yudkin]

I am also not gushing over Brown. Other then Owens, the Eagles have not really produced any standout wide receivers for whatever reasons. Sure, Stallworth started off well last year and had a couple other big games but he also had games where he disappeared. With an ADP of around 22, I am not sure he's a great investment although he's another one that could put up decent but IMO not phenomenal stats.

I agree that at this point it looks like Brown could be more talented, but Stallworth, Mitchell, and Charles Johnson were all 1st round picks, Pinkston was a 2nd round pick, and couple of the other WR were 3rd rounders IIRC.

Stallworth - good but injured - 1 year in Philly offense where McNabb got hurt.Mitchell - BUST.Pinkston - Smaller BUST, but still a BUST.Charles Johnson - 2 years, one with Pederson at QB and another with McNabb in his first year as starting QB. After those two years, he moved on and did much of nothing. One year over 1000 yards. 2 years over 3 TD's. 2 years over 60 receptions.The above WR's you site are poor WR's in general. Brown seems to be the WR where the Eagles FINALLY got it right.I would not hold Brown's cieling down because of the samples you suggest - I don't think they relate as well as it appears on the surface.We have seen what an established WR can do in the Eagles Offense and Brown continues to establish himself I can see top 10 fantasy WR. I can see that starting this year provided McNabb stays healthy.

All I'm saying is that the Eagles have made some less than stellar decisions and talent evaluations when it comes to their receivers. Maybe that changed with Brown.Last year, Brown needed 35 more fantasy points to crack the Top 10. That's roughly a 25% improvement which I don't see as being excessive or unreasonable, I just don't think that it will happen. He certainly is in a position where he could thrive, so that alone could get him more looks on draft day.I clearly am not totally down on him as I have him ranked 19th.

 

[TheLastDispatch]

For the original question, McGahee is a guy I'm really high on right now.

As an Eagles homer, here's my take on Brown.

Positives - He's the number 1 WR on one of the NFL's top offenses with one of the top QBs in the game at the helm. He has more talent than any of the other guys being talked about here (Pinkston, Thrash, Mitchell, Johnson, Stallworth IMO). He's not an injury concern either. The Eagles have one of the easiest schedules for WRs this year (3rd easiest). Last year he averaged 17.7 yards per catch, showing big play ability. He improved in every category last year, and he now has 2 years in the complex Philly offense under his belt. If Brown is going to break out, I think this is the season he does it.

Negatives - Although Brown is on a pass happy team with a great QB, McNabb is a huge injury risk. He hasn't finished either of the past two seasons, and just two of the past 5 seasons. Even when McNabb is in the game, however, he is prone to getting in a funk. All you have to do is look at his face during the game and you'll know how he's playing. When McNabb's not smiling, he's generally in a funk. He throws a lot of balls at his receivers feet as well. Brown himself has had troubles with drops. He dropped 9 passes last year and only caught just over 50% of his targets last year. The biggest problem for Brown is that he plays on an offense where every game a different receiver is the "go to guy" for the game. The Eagles spread it around so much it's impossible to rely on Brown game in and game out. With Westbrook and LJ Smith in the mix as well, there are games where Brown is the #3 option. Last year with Stallworth, there were games where he was almost completely forgotten behind Westbrook, Smith, and Stallworth (Weeks 1, 2, 9 to some extent, 10, 11, 12). Will that happen again with Curtis? Maybe maybe not. Last year there was 9 games that Brown scored less than 9 points (nonPPR), and that's excluding his last game against Atlanta.

I view Brown as a valuable WR with big upside, but not somebody I'd want as a starting WR for me.

That's my view... take it for what it's worth.

 

[Buddy Ball 2K3]

Reggie Wayne - I think he will be one of the top 3 WR's this season. If I were the Colts I would be very worried about their defense

TJ Housmandzadeh sp? - I think this guy could easily be a top 8 WR if not higher

Kitna - The Lions D SUCKS ! They are gonna have to score a ton. As long as I can live with the INT's, I would be happy to have Kitna on my team.

Travis Henry - Another guy I can see being in the top 8. I believe in the Denver O line more then I do TH, but I can easily see him with 1200+ and 12 TDs

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots" It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

 

[Ron_Mexico]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots" It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007They will miss TJ bigtime.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots" It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007They will miss TJ bigtime.

They have added much more than they lost.Lost Thomas Jones......added Cedric Benson who had the same YPC as Jones and the same amount of touchdowns with significantly less carries.....also added Garret Wolfe...who was the leading rusher in the NCAA last year and gives the Bears the best 3rd down RB since...Robert Green?Lost Ian Scott.....added Anthony Adams....I believe this is a push or an upgrade. Ian Scott didn't fit the scheme as well because he was more of a clogger, instead of the Gap Penetrating defensive lineman that Chicago uses. Adams is more of a penetrator and therefore is a better fit.Lost Tank Johnson....he was the 3rd DT in our rotating scheme....added a healthy Dusty Dovorchek. He was the Bears 3rd round pick last year and teammate of Tommie Harris at Oklahoma. He is a perfect fit next to Tommie Harris and in the gap penetrating scheme. Tommie Harris and Dusty Dovorcheck will start, with Anthony Adams backing up.Lost Todd Johnson....added Adam Archeleta...this is an upgrade easily.Holdout Lance Briggs....added Michael Okwo.....also Jamar Williams is a year older. Two young talented playmakers that fit the Will position. If he plays great, if not the Bears will miss him but not as much as people think. Both Williams and Okwo are 3rd round picks and Jerry Angelo can draft. Inserting LB's next to Urlacher is easy.....just ask Colvin and Holdman who left before....Briggs jumped in and the Bears didn't miss a beat.Added....a new dimension with Greg Olsen...6-5 Te that can run a 4.5.Added....another playmaking DE in Dan Bazin.Added....Josh Beekman who can play any interior position and will start in a couple of seasons.Grossman has his first full offseason with the same offensive coordinator.Mark Bradley is finally healthy and whether you want to believe it or not, is the most talented WR on the roster.Mike Brown and Tommie Harris are now healthy....this is the main reason they didn't win the Super Bowl.Nathan Vasher is locked up for 5 more years....playmaking CB....YES!!!!So again....why will there be a sudden dropoff for a very young team?The main concern that I have with the Bears is a lack of a backup OT. Tait and Miller are not young and I'm not counting on John St. Clair.

 

[nygiants56]

I subscribe to the theory that every player has value and you shouldn't love or hate player, but each year I find myself enthralled with certain guys - it's just that "feeling" that these guys are on the verge of a great year and I will pay the price to get these guys. Here's my short list this year:

Jay Cutler - In a GREAT situation, and I beleive he'll land in the top 10 this year worst case. Shanahan's most talented QB since Elway has a ton of weapons at his disposal. The last five games of 2006 showed what he is capable of, and I beleive you'll see a full year of that production in 2007.

Marshawn Lynch - No competition in Buf (A-train? cmon..), and the team will re-commit to the run this year with a revamped O-Line. A dual-threat out of the backfield on an offense (and team) that is on the rise. I look for big things here. Solid RB2 worst case, RB1 numbers possible.

Reggie Brown - WR1 in a pass-happy offense that finds ways to get the ball to WR's no matter who the wideouts are. Brown is very talented, and I beleive he'll have his best year yet. Top 10 a very real possibility.

Vernon Davis - His stock is already rising and may be as hyped this year as Ben Watson was last year, but I don't care. I think a huge year is in store for this guy. He is a freak, and I think will be the #1 TE in fantasy for years to come. He may not reach that status this year. but I see a minimum of 800 yards and 8-10 TD's nevertheless.

Feedback is welcome - and if anyone has there own list of "must-have's" please share.

have you seen buff's 2007 schedule , yet?! you won't feel the same way, once you do.this team should start out 0-5.

I believe they have the toughest SOS of any NFL team..not saying the guy can't become something special, but, its going to be an uphill battle, this season.

 

[zed2283]

I like the M.Pollard and O.Mare picks that were already mentioned.

And the one you've all been waiting for.... Jerious Norwood!!

 

[KCC]

One guy I will try to grab in as many leagues as possible is Vincent Jackson, WR, San Diego. He's 6'5", fast, and has a great opportunity in becoming San Diego's #1 WR. He had 27 receptions last year, but took 6 of them into the endzone. Lack of name recognition could make him a steal in many drafts.

 

[ceo3west]

I subscribe to the theory that every player has value and you shouldn't love or hate player, but each year I find myself enthralled with certain guys - it's just that "feeling" that these guys are on the verge of a great year and I will pay the price to get these guys. Here's my short list this year:

Jay Cutler - In a GREAT situation, and I beleive he'll land in the top 10 this year worst case. Shanahan's most talented QB since Elway has a ton of weapons at his disposal. The last five games of 2006 showed what he is capable of, and I beleive you'll see a full year of that production in 2007.

Marshawn Lynch - No competition in Buf (A-train? cmon..), and the team will re-commit to the run this year with a revamped O-Line. A dual-threat out of the backfield on an offense (and team) that is on the rise. I look for big things here. Solid RB2 worst case, RB1 numbers possible.

Reggie Brown - WR1 in a pass-happy offense that finds ways to get the ball to WR's no matter who the wideouts are. Brown is very talented, and I beleive he'll have his best year yet. Top 10 a very real possibility.

Vernon Davis - His stock is already rising and may be as hyped this year as Ben Watson was last year, but I don't care. I think a huge year is in store for this guy. He is a freak, and I think will be the #1 TE in fantasy for years to come. He may not reach that status this year. but I see a minimum of 800 yards and 8-10 TD's nevertheless.

Feedback is welcome - and if anyone has there own list of "must-have's" please share.

have you seen buff's 2007 schedule , yet?! you won't feel the same way, once you do.this team should start out 0-5.

I believe they have the toughest SOS of any NFL team..not saying the guy can't become something special, but, its going to be an uphill battle, this season.

I hear you, but I don't base my picks on SOS alone. In fact, I think it can be a big mistake by doing so as I have been burned by this thinking in the past. SOS should be used when picking between two similar players, not to prevent you from selecting potential breakout candidates IMO.

 

[-OZ-]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots"

It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007

They will miss TJ bigtime.

They have added much more than they lost.Lost Thomas Jones......added Cedric Benson who had the same YPC as Jones and the same amount of touches with significantly less carries.....also added Garret Wolfe...who was the leading rusher in the NCAA last year and gives the Bears the best 3rd down RB since...Robert Green?

Lost Ian Scott.....added Anthony Adams....I believe this is a push or an upgrade. Ian Scott didn't fit the scheme as well because he was more of a clogger, instead of the Gap Penetrating defensive lineman that Chicago uses. Adams is more of a penetrator and therefore is a better fit.

Lost Tank Johnson....he was the 3rd DT in our rotating scheme....added a healthy Dusty Dovorchek. He was the Bears 3rd round pick last year and teammate of Tommie Harris at Oklahoma. He is a perfect fit next to Tommie Harris and in the gap penetrating scheme. Tommie Harris and Dusty Dovorcheck will start, with Anthony Adams backing up.

Lost Todd Johnson....added Adam Archeleta...this is an upgrade easily.

Holdout Lance Briggs....added Michael Okwo.....also Jamar Williams is a year older. Two young talented playmakers that fit the Will position. If he plays great, if not the Bears will miss him but not as much as people think. Both Williams and Okwo are 3rd round picks and Jerry Angelo can draft. Inserting LB's next to Urlacher is easy.....just ask Colvin and Holdman who left before....Briggs jumped in and the Bears didn't miss a beat.

Added....a new dimension with Greg Olsen...6-5 Te that can run a 4.5.

Added....another playmaking DE in Dan Bazin.

Added....Josh Beekman who can play any interior position and will start in a couple of seasons.

Grossman has his first full offseason with the same offensive coordinator.

Mark Bradley is finally healthy and whether you want to believe it or not, is the most talented WR on the roster.

Mike Brown and Tommie Harris are now healthy....this is the main reason they didn't win the Super Bowl.

Nathan Vasher is locked up for 5 more years....playmaking CB....YES!!!!

So again....why will there be a sudden dropoff for a very young team?

The main concern that I have with the Bears is a lack of a backup OT. Tait and Miller are not young and I'm not counting on John St. Clair.

While I don't think Chicago will fall too far in their division, what do you mean by they "added Cedric Benson"? They will miss TJ, and lose more games because of it. Probably still win the division though.

 

[EBF]

Thomas Jones

Travis Henry

Kevin Curtis

Santonio Holmes

I'm especially bullish on Jones and Henry. Both are poised for the best seasons of their careers, IMO. Curtis and Holmes have some risk, but can be had for cheap. Neither figures to be a top 10 guy, but they both have a pretty good chance of outperforming their positional rank by 10-15 slots.

I also considered putting Ben Roethlisberger, Marshawn Lynch, Bernard Berrian, Ronald Curry, and Adrian Peterson on this list. They all have a chance to surprise.

 

[TheLastDispatch]

Thomas JonesTravis Henry Kevin CurtisSantonio HolmesI'm especially bullish on Jones and Henry. Both are poised for the best seasons of their careers, IMO. Curtis and Holmes have some risk, but can be had for cheap. Neither figures to be a top 10 guy, but they both have a pretty good chance of outperforming their positional rank by 10-15 slots. I also considered putting Ben Roethlisberger, Marshawn Lynch, Bernard Berrian, Ronald Curry, and Adrian Peterson on this list. They all have a chance to surprise.

Hey EBF,As an Eagles homer I'm interested in why you list Curtis here. Thoughts?

 

[EBF]

Thomas JonesTravis Henry Kevin CurtisSantonio HolmesI'm especially bullish on Jones and Henry. Both are poised for the best seasons of their careers, IMO. Curtis and Holmes have some risk, but can be had for cheap. Neither figures to be a top 10 guy, but they both have a pretty good chance of outperforming their positional rank by 10-15 slots. I also considered putting Ben Roethlisberger, Marshawn Lynch, Bernard Berrian, Ronald Curry, and Adrian Peterson on this list. They all have a chance to surprise.

Hey EBF,As an Eagles homer I'm interested in why you list Curtis here. Thoughts?

He's a good player and he should have a chance to start. Both Stallworth and Brown were pretty productive last season. I expect Curtis to follow suit.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots"

It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007

They will miss TJ bigtime.

They have added much more than they lost.Lost Thomas Jones......added Cedric Benson who had the same YPC as Jones and the same amount of touches with significantly less carries.....also added Garret Wolfe...who was the leading rusher in the NCAA last year and gives the Bears the best 3rd down RB since...Robert Green?

Lost Ian Scott.....added Anthony Adams....I believe this is a push or an upgrade. Ian Scott didn't fit the scheme as well because he was more of a clogger, instead of the Gap Penetrating defensive lineman that Chicago uses. Adams is more of a penetrator and therefore is a better fit.

Lost Tank Johnson....he was the 3rd DT in our rotating scheme....added a healthy Dusty Dovorchek. He was the Bears 3rd round pick last year and teammate of Tommie Harris at Oklahoma. He is a perfect fit next to Tommie Harris and in the gap penetrating scheme. Tommie Harris and Dusty Dovorcheck will start, with Anthony Adams backing up.

Lost Todd Johnson....added Adam Archeleta...this is an upgrade easily.

Holdout Lance Briggs....added Michael Okwo.....also Jamar Williams is a year older. Two young talented playmakers that fit the Will position. If he plays great, if not the Bears will miss him but not as much as people think. Both Williams and Okwo are 3rd round picks and Jerry Angelo can draft. Inserting LB's next to Urlacher is easy.....just ask Colvin and Holdman who left before....Briggs jumped in and the Bears didn't miss a beat.

Added....a new dimension with Greg Olsen...6-5 Te that can run a 4.5.

Added....another playmaking DE in Dan Bazin.

Added....Josh Beekman who can play any interior position and will start in a couple of seasons.

Grossman has his first full offseason with the same offensive coordinator.

Mark Bradley is finally healthy and whether you want to believe it or not, is the most talented WR on the roster.

Mike Brown and Tommie Harris are now healthy....this is the main reason they didn't win the Super Bowl.

Nathan Vasher is locked up for 5 more years....playmaking CB....YES!!!!

So again....why will there be a sudden dropoff for a very young team?

The main concern that I have with the Bears is a lack of a backup OT. Tait and Miller are not young and I'm not counting on John St. Clair.

While I don't think Chicago will fall too far in their division, what do you mean by they "added Cedric Benson"? They will miss TJ, and lose more games because of it. Probably still win the division though.

Addition by subtraction....kind of like the Drew Brees and Phillip Rivers thing.TJ and Benson had the same YPC last year and both had 7 touchdowns. However, Benson did this on less carries. Benson fits the power run scheme much better than TJ and Wolfe will pick up in the pass catching department.

 

[TitusIII]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots"

It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007

They will miss TJ bigtime.

They have added much more than they lost.Lost Thomas Jones......added Cedric Benson who had the same YPC as Jones and the same amount of touches with significantly less carries.....also added Garret Wolfe...who was the leading rusher in the NCAA last year and gives the Bears the best 3rd down RB since...Robert Green?

Lost Ian Scott.....added Anthony Adams....I believe this is a push or an upgrade. Ian Scott didn't fit the scheme as well because he was more of a clogger, instead of the Gap Penetrating defensive lineman that Chicago uses. Adams is more of a penetrator and therefore is a better fit.

Lost Tank Johnson....he was the 3rd DT in our rotating scheme....added a healthy Dusty Dovorchek. He was the Bears 3rd round pick last year and teammate of Tommie Harris at Oklahoma. He is a perfect fit next to Tommie Harris and in the gap penetrating scheme. Tommie Harris and Dusty Dovorcheck will start, with Anthony Adams backing up.

Lost Todd Johnson....added Adam Archeleta...this is an upgrade easily.

Holdout Lance Briggs....added Michael Okwo.....also Jamar Williams is a year older. Two young talented playmakers that fit the Will position. If he plays great, if not the Bears will miss him but not as much as people think. Both Williams and Okwo are 3rd round picks and Jerry Angelo can draft. Inserting LB's next to Urlacher is easy.....just ask Colvin and Holdman who left before....Briggs jumped in and the Bears didn't miss a beat.

Added....a new dimension with Greg Olsen...6-5 Te that can run a 4.5.

Added....another playmaking DE in Dan Bazin.

Added....Josh Beekman who can play any interior position and will start in a couple of seasons.

Grossman has his first full offseason with the same offensive coordinator.

Mark Bradley is finally healthy and whether you want to believe it or not, is the most talented WR on the roster.

Mike Brown and Tommie Harris are now healthy....this is the main reason they didn't win the Super Bowl.

Nathan Vasher is locked up for 5 more years....playmaking CB....YES!!!!

So again....why will there be a sudden dropoff for a very young team?

The main concern that I have with the Bears is a lack of a backup OT. Tait and Miller are not young and I'm not counting on John St. Clair.

While I don't think Chicago will fall too far in their division, what do you mean by they "added Cedric Benson"? They will miss TJ, and lose more games because of it. Probably still win the division though.

Thomas Jones is the epitome of the type of RB I despise. He doesn't fight for yardage, he loves to hop around, and he isn't fast. The Bears didn't win any games because of him, and they will not lose any because of Cedric Benson, barring any key fumbles, of course.In regards to the topic at hand...

-Tony Romo(will scoop as my #1/#2 in any league I can)

-Brandon Jacobs(ideal #3 RB)

-Deion Branch(ideal #2/#3 WR)

-Vernon Davis(value should be there)

-Josh Scobee(roll the dice)

 

[ebcpastor2004]

Don't have four players that are "gots to have" but I will definitely target DJ Hackett.

Other players of Interest are:

Donald Driver (# 1 or 2 WR)

Jay Cutler (B/U QB)

and... Ahman Green (as # 3 or 4 RB)

Also think Julius Jones and Jerious Norwood will outperform their ADP.

 

[jurb26]

Jason Campbell

Ahman Green

Troy Williamson

SF Defense

 

[TheLastDispatch]

Don't have four players that are "gots to have" but I will definitely target DJ Hackett.

Other players of Interest are:

Donald Driver (# 1 or 2 WR)

Jay Cutler (B/U QB)

and... Ahman Green (as # 3 or 4 RB)

Also think Julius Jones and Jerious Norwood will outperform their ADP.

I missed him in my earlier post. As the 29th RB off the board, I think he represents value.

 

[joey]

Don't have four players that are "gots to have" but I will definitely target DJ Hackett.

Other players of Interest are:

Donald Driver (# 1 or 2 WR)

Jay Cutler (B/U QB)

and... Ahman Green (as # 3 or 4 RB)

Also think Julius Jones and Jerious Norwood will outperform their ADP.

I missed him in my earlier post. As the 29th RB off the board, I think he represents value.

I'm afraid that Ahman won't be close to RB29 when most of my drafts happen in mid/late August.Dude is on the rise and as long as he doesn't do something horrible in pre-season, I see him

ending up around RB20 in drafts later on.

 

[Football Menace]

"I was watching the Bears-Bucs game on NFL replay and I had forgotten just how quickly TJones goes down on first contact. I mean immediately, no power at all. I've downgraded him about five spots"

It is definitely funny how people see things differently. I happen to catch the reply and walked away with a completely different line of thinking.

If you think Jones breaks tackles frequently, then you are in for a rude awakening in New York.

No team has taken a bigger step back this off-season than the Bears.9-7 in 2007

They will miss TJ bigtime.

They have added much more than they lost.Lost Thomas Jones......added Cedric Benson who had the same YPC as Jones and the same amount of touches with significantly less carries.....also added Garret Wolfe...who was the leading rusher in the NCAA last year and gives the Bears the best 3rd down RB since...Robert Green?

Lost Ian Scott.....added Anthony Adams....I believe this is a push or an upgrade. Ian Scott didn't fit the scheme as well because he was more of a clogger, instead of the Gap Penetrating defensive lineman that Chicago uses. Adams is more of a penetrator and therefore is a better fit.

Lost Tank Johnson....he was the 3rd DT in our rotating scheme....added a healthy Dusty Dovorchek. He was the Bears 3rd round pick last year and teammate of Tommie Harris at Oklahoma. He is a perfect fit next to Tommie Harris and in the gap penetrating scheme. Tommie Harris and Dusty Dovorcheck will start, with Anthony Adams backing up.

Lost Todd Johnson....added Adam Archeleta...this is an upgrade easily.

Holdout Lance Briggs....added Michael Okwo.....also Jamar Williams is a year older. Two young talented playmakers that fit the Will position. If he plays great, if not the Bears will miss him but not as much as people think. Both Williams and Okwo are 3rd round picks and Jerry Angelo can draft. Inserting LB's next to Urlacher is easy.....just ask Colvin and Holdman who left before....Briggs jumped in and the Bears didn't miss a beat.

Added....a new dimension with Greg Olsen...6-5 Te that can run a 4.5.

Added....another playmaking DE in Dan Bazin.

Added....Josh Beekman who can play any interior position and will start in a couple of seasons.

Grossman has his first full offseason with the same offensive coordinator.

Mark Bradley is finally healthy and whether you want to believe it or not, is the most talented WR on the roster.

Mike Brown and Tommie Harris are now healthy....this is the main reason they didn't win the Super Bowl.

Nathan Vasher is locked up for 5 more years....playmaking CB....YES!!!!

So again....why will there be a sudden dropoff for a very young team?

The main concern that I have with the Bears is a lack of a backup OT. Tait and Miller are not young and I'm not counting on John St. Clair.

While I don't think Chicago will fall too far in their division, what do you mean by they "added Cedric Benson"? They will miss TJ, and lose more games because of it. Probably still win the division though.

Thomas Jones is the epitome of the type of RB I despise. He doesn't fight for yardage, he loves to hop around, and he isn't fast. The Bears didn't win any games because of him, and they will not lose any because of Cedric Benson, barring any key fumbles, of course.In regards to the topic at hand...

-Tony Romo(will scoop as my #1/#2 in any league I can)

-Brandon Jacobs(ideal #3 RB)

-Deion Branch(ideal #2/#3 WR)

-Vernon Davis(value should be there)

-Josh Scobee(roll the dice)

NFC Championship Game down? 19/123/2

6.5 per carry

Painful to say as a Saints fan.

 

[Kevin Ashcraft]

I will take one from each major position.....

QB - Carson Palmer

Cincy will be forced to outscore teams this season IMO, and Palmer will again be a top 5 QB

RB - Joseph Addai

Spare me the talk that he is sharing carries with Dorsey, et al. I think this guys ends up around RB5-RB7

WR - TJ Houshmandzedah

Will slightly outperform Ocho Cinco, but both will be top 10 WRs

TE - Jeremy Shockey

The G-men will be throwing the ball a LOT this season. I would look for big #s from their WRs also.

 

[Donnybrook]

More of a dynasty list than redraft:

Calvin Johnson – I spend too much time looking for sleeper and sometimes I have to remind myself not to overlook the obvious. No one is more obviously talented than Calvin Johnson.

Tony Romo – I have been routing for Romo since before the time that Drew Henson was on the roster. One of those players that I thought was never going to get a shot but made the most of it when he did.

Jerious Norwood – If he wins the starting job outright, he could be potentially be a top 10 pick next season.

Mike Bell – He has good instincts and just looks very explosive when he has the ball in his hands. People automatically discount him since he was not drafted but he keeps managing to be more productive than the higher pedigree players that were his former teammates. I think he may get enough goal line opportunities to be the 2007 equivalent of the 2006 Marion Barber.

 

[bcr8f]

Trent Green: One year removed from 5 straight 4,000 yard passing seasons, and going usually around QB10-12. Excellent value this year

I haven't seen Green higher than maybe 23.Greg Jennings because he is ranked very low.