Given what you know NOW....Who are your top 6 dynasty rookie wr's (1 Viewer)

[EBF]

Calvin Johnson - Beast.

Laurent Robinson - Has all the tools and already looks like a technician out there.

Wow again. I know you like him, but this is serious praise. Does Laurent being a Falcon bother you? There really isn't much in front of him there, but the group and QB do seem like obstacles for this season. I cannot wait to see this kid play.

Rookie WR Laurent Robinson has impressed Falcons coach Bobby Petrino: "He is going to be a tremendous receiver," Petrino said." He’s got great size, great hands, good speed, and a great stride. He has a huge stride and he can get to defensive backs and close that cushion. He is learning the game well. He has a great mind, he is open to criticism and open to learning. He is asking questions and trying to figure what he can do to get better. That’s all you want to see from a rookie."

I don't see a problem with the situation in Atlanta. Horn is almost done. White and Jenkins appear to be mediocre. It's quite conceivable that Robinson could seize the WR1 spot within the next two years. And while the team lacks a great QB option, I don't think that's necessarily a big concern. They're one free agent or draft pick away from having a capable passer. I don't want to get too carried away with my praise of Robinson. He's not a lock for success. Few players are. But I think he's a solid WR prospect who has the look of a potential WR1 in the NFL. He looks polished and seems to know how to get seperation. He's not a flashy player, but he has maybe the best tools of any WR in the draft outside of CJ.

From a post I made in May:

Laurent Robinson, WR, Illinois State

6'2" 199 pounds

Combine - w/ comparisons

Vertical Leap - 39" (Rice 39.5", Meachem 37.5", Bowe 33")

Broad Jump - 10'7" (Rice 9'11", Meachem 10'1", Bowe 10'5")

10 Yard Dash - 1.53s (Rice 1.58s, Meachem 1.53s, Bowe 1.64s)

40 Yard Dash - 4.41s (Rice 4.53s, Meachem 4.42s, Bowe 4.57s)

20 Yard Shuttle - 4.28s (Rice 4.34s, Meachem 4.31s, Bowe 4.35s)

60 Yard Shuttle - 11.45s (Rice DNR, Meachem 11.30s, Bowe DNR)

3 Cone Drill - 6.83s (Rice 7.09s, Meachem 6.97s, Bowe 6.81s)

College Stats

2003 - 19 catches, 260 yards, 3 TDs

2004 - 47 catches, 564 yards, 7 TDs

2005 - 86 catches, 1,465 yards, 12 TDs

2006 - 40 catches, 718 yards, 7 TDs (apparently had an ankle injury most of the season)

Games against D-1A teams

2005 vs. Iowa State - 6 catches, 177 yards, 2 TDs

2006 vs. Kansas State - 9 catches, 77 yards, 2 TDs

Highlights

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/...aft/2007/video/

Scouting Reports

http://www.nfl.com/draft/profiles/2007/robinson_laurent

Not the type of guy who blows you away in highlights, but it's important to realize that many of the top WRs in the NFL aren't 6'5" with 4.3 speed. Robinson seems to fit the mold of a Darrell Jackson/Chad Johnson/Reggie Wayne/TJ Housh type of receiver. He was drafted 75th overall (ahead of Jason Hill), which is within ten spots of where Chris Henry, Bernard Berrian, Nate Burleson, Kevin Curtis, Deion Branch, Steve Smith, Laveranues Coles, Darrell Jackson, and Marty Booker were taken.

It's pretty common to see good receivers come out of rounds 2-4. Robinson was taken pretty high, and when you factor in that small school guys tend to go a bit lower in the draft than their talent might justify, I think you have the makings of a pretty good sleeper.

Joe Horn is on the way out, Roddy White looks like a bit of a bust, and Michael Jenkins isn't the type of receiver who strikes fear into anyone's heart. The Vick factor is a bit of a concern, but there's opportunity here.

In summary:- Pretty high draft pick

- Productive in college

- Elite combine numbers

- Long-term opportunity to win the WR1 job

- Looks good on the field

- Getting early buzz from coaches and reporters

Not bad. You could do a lot worse considering his low cost. He slipped deep into the draft in almost all of my leagues. And while he has received a little bit of hype around here, his national profile remains very low and it's obvious that the casual FF player is oblivious to his existence. Now is a good time to add him if you can get him for cheap. He has a chance to become a player and he won't kill you if he busts.

 

[EBF]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

 

[Duke1948]

Why all the A. Gonzalez love?

i just don't see it either, think he will have a nice career but nothing specialc. johnsons. riced. jarrettj. jones g.bj. jonesl. robinson

 

[Pipes]

James Jones- Is it him or is it the Farve affect?

Its the Favre effect. Take a look at his highlights, he's a guy with average size, average speed average quickness, ask yourself this question, who are Antonio Chatman and Terrence Murphy? My point exactly players that were hyped on this board as the next big Packers WR and never filled the bill. I really dont see James Jones beating out Jennings at this point.

FWIW, Favre compared his skill set to Sterling Sharpe's. I don't recall Favre ever claiming that about another rookie.

He said Derrick Mayes was the most talented WR he'd ever played with, and that was while Sharpe was on the team. We see how that panned out.

Sharpe was retired before Mayes came into the picture. Yes Mayes was a training camp wonder who didn't pan out however what makes you think the Jones is the next Derrick Mayes and not the next Sterling Sharpe?For the record I think he'll end up somewhere in between.

 

[JohnnyU]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

 

[switz]

James Jones- Is it him or is it the Farve affect?

Its the Favre effect. Take a look at his highlights, he's a guy with average size, average speed average quickness, ask yourself this question, who are Antonio Chatman and Terrence Murphy? My point exactly players that were hyped on this board as the next big Packers WR and never filled the bill. I really dont see James Jones beating out Jennings at this point.

FWIW, Favre compared his skill set to Sterling Sharpe's. I don't recall Favre ever claiming that about another rookie.

He said Derrick Mayes was the most talented WR he'd ever played with, and that was while Sharpe was on the team. We see how that panned out.

Sharpe was retired before Mayes came into the picture. Yes Mayes was a training camp wonder who didn't pan out however what makes you think the Jones is the next Derrick Mayes and not the next Sterling Sharpe?For the record I think he'll end up somewhere in between.

I thought Mayes entered the league the season Sharpe retired, but I guess it was actually a few years later, when Freeman was the big guy.FTR, I never said Jones would turn out like Mayes. My response was driectly to your comment: "I don't recall Favre ever claiming that about another rookie."Bottom line, just because Favre says it, doesn't make it true. Jones does look good however. But I still see him as the #3 guy.

 

[Illegal Pants Downfield]

This class sure looks solid at WR....interesting to see these 2nd/3rd tier guys like Jacoby Jones/Laurent Robinson/James Jones creep up into a lot of people's top 5 ahead of 1st rounders, while other 1st rounders who were initially not getting alot of attention (Craig Davis, Anthony Gonzalez, even Ginn) are becoming more appealing choices from their work in TC/Preseason...

This class is going to be a fun one to follow through their careers.

 

[FBGPoker]

1)CJ

2)James Jones

3)Bowe

4)L.Robinson

5)Jacoby Jones

 

[prymetyme25]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

 

[Chaos Commish]

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

He's Cuban.

 

[FBGPoker]

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

He's Cuban.

Full Cuban or half?Also what is the history of Cubans in the NFL, has there been any other notable Cubano's?

 

[THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

OK, thats getting borderline there..... But i will say this. COLTS NOW HOW TO DRAFT

98 Manning

99 EDGE

00 ROB MORRIS

01 R.WAYNE (pick 30)b

02 D.FREENEY

03 D.CLARK

04 XXX no 1st but landed BOB SANDERS in the 2nd.

05 M.Jackson

06 J.ADDAI

GONZALES was a late 1st like alot of there picks....I think he walks into the perfect situation given his skills and it has nothing to do with race.

 

[prymetyme25]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

OK, thats getting borderline there..... But i will say this. COLTS NOW HOW TO DRAFT

98 Manning

99 EDGE

00 ROB MORRIS

01 R.WAYNE (pick 30)b

02 D.FREENEY

03 D.CLARK

04 XXX no 1st but landed BOB SANDERS in the 2nd.

05 M.Jackson

06 J.ADDAI

GONZALES was a late 1st like alot of there picks....I think he walks into the perfect situation given his skills and it has nothing to do with race.

uhhhh I know it has nothin to do with race just pointing that out.

 

[prymetyme25]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

OK, thats getting borderline there..... But i will say this. COLTS NOW HOW TO DRAFT

98 Manning

99 EDGE

00 ROB MORRIS

01 R.WAYNE (pick 30)b

02 D.FREENEY

03 D.CLARK

04 XXX no 1st but landed BOB SANDERS in the 2nd.

05 M.Jackson

06 J.ADDAI

GONZALES was a late 1st like alot of there picks....I think he walks into the perfect situation given his skills and it has nothing to do with race.

Doesnt it seem like it might be too perfect? Plus I think alot of people are forget about another player they have that pretty much does the same work as gonzales would be doing but has been in the system for about 4 yours now.

 

[THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I think the fact that he is white help his case because it's percieved as being hardworking, smart and a good kid. Whereas if he was black he'd be gifted and talented.

OK, thats getting borderline there..... But i will say this. COLTS NOW HOW TO DRAFT

98 Manning

99 EDGE

00 ROB MORRIS

01 R.WAYNE (pick 30)b

02 D.FREENEY

03 D.CLARK

04 XXX no 1st but landed BOB SANDERS in the 2nd.

05 M.Jackson

06 J.ADDAI

GONZALES was a late 1st like alot of there picks....I think he walks into the perfect situation given his skills and it has nothing to do with race.

Doesnt it seem like it might be too perfect? Plus I think alot of people are forget about another player they have that pretty much does the same work as gonzales would be doing but has been in the system for about 4 yours now.

Alot of people? Ugh no INDY forgot about him if you speaking on Moorhead.....they (INDY) went drafted this guy in the 1st round.......THE FIRST ROUND, that tells me alot about how they felt about him when you had other wr's rated higher than him still available...ala S.Rice. I think Polin drafts what fits his system.my take on it....

 

[jurb26]

James Jones- Is it him or is it the Farve affect?

He's a stud. That was Rashean Mathis with no prayer man on man against him last week.

The Jones hype is at an apex. He only "beat" Mathis once and Mathis actually had perfect coverage and just missed the pick.

 

[EBF]

This is probably the toughest WR group to gauge that I can remember.

Btw, you didn't list Gonzalez in the top 11. Oversight or not impressed?

I think he has a good chance to contribute as a rookie, but I'm not in love with his long-term potential. I think a lot of people look at him and automatically assume that he's going to produce like Reggie Wayne someday. Personally, I view him more as a slot WR. You can't ignore the fact that he was a first round pick and that he could be starting for the Colts in the near future, but I guess I'm just not that big on his skills. We'll see. I was skeptical of Addai last year and he seemed to prove me wrong, so maybe I'm just missing the boat here.

You are in a big way. "not that big on his skills"? Well, he runs a 4.4, runs great routes, and has hands of glue. What's not to like?

You just described about 10 different guys in the draft.Ok, maybe that's an exaggeration, but being 4.4 with good hands doesn't ensure success.

I just don't think he's that impressive. I watched Ohio State play a few times during his career. He made some catches and was obviously a big part of the offense, but I never once found myself thinking, "Wow, that Anthony Gonzalez guy is going to be a star in the NFL." If you ask me, he is what he is: a nice slot WR who can get open underneath and move the chains. I don't think he's nearly as dangerous downfield as Wayne and Harrison.

I don't think he's going to be a bust, but I don't think he's going to be a star either. There's nothing special about him aside from the fact that he was chosen in the first round and that Peyton Manning is his QB.

The fact that Manning IS his QB and will be for a long time, is a pretty good reason to have him on your dynasty team. Like I already said, he runs great routes, has sure hands, and runs like the wind tells me he has more upside than you're giving him credit for. I do watch a lot of OSU games (stepson graduated from there, and I married into an OSU family) and to me he looked like a hell of a lot better WR than Ted Ginn Jr, who can't run a decent route if his life depended on it, and is a straight line deep threat and that's it. Let me ask you something. Is the fact that Gonzalez isn't a black WR, does that play a part in your opinion of him as an athlete? I know it's risky posting something like that here, but I can't help but think a lot of that plays into people's mind when evaluating WRs and RBs.

I've said what I wanted to say about him. I think he'll have a nice career and become a fan favorite, but he doesn't strike me as a great talent and I don't think he's a lock to ever be a starting WR for the Colts. I view him as a slot guy who will contribute without ever being dominant. Race has nothing to do with it. He just doesn't look that special to me. Maybe I'm wrong. I've been wrong before. If Harrison retires in a few years and Gonzalez takes his spot, he would certainly become a very intriguing option. But right now he's pretty low on my rookie WR board (although he's one of the better rookie picks in a survivor/best ball redraft).

 

[Chaos Commish]

James Jones- Is it him or is it the Farve affect?

He's a stud. That was Rashean Mathis with no prayer man on man against him last week.

The Jones hype is at an apex. He only "beat" Mathis once and Mathis actually had perfect coverage and just missed the pick.

He beat Mathis cleanly 4 times and three were receptions. The one you mention was Rashean's best attempt at coverage and went for 23 yards. JJ made receptions on the next two plays, and Mathis was man on man with him on the second one of those... sort of, he was tossed aside trying to jam. Also, JJ caught a pass from Favre earlier in the game on Mathis, but fumbled. Rashean Mathis is not big enough to stop this kid. I like the Sterling Sharpe comparisons.I watched it, recorded it, watched again and watched it again and again. It was a mismatch every time those two lined up. It is hype at this point, sure, but it's earned. This kid is strong, always open, explosive on his breaks, dangerous with the ball and catching everything. He looks better to me this year than Jennings did last year. I think James Jones is the best receiver in Green Bay, like Walker was when Driver was there. It's not that outrageous. It could be I'm just ahead of the story a few months.

Mathis looked great against Driver, hopeless against Jones. H o p e l e s s.

 

[duaneok66]

not an Anchorman fan?

Why all the Rice love??I have seen all the Vikings preseason games, and he has not stood out at all . . .he was also called out by Mayock for running a route badly . . . yes it was one play, but still . . .no way he is in the top 5 (as of now) . . .

 

[Chaos Commish]

not an Anchorman fan?

Why all the Rice love??I have seen all the Vikings preseason games, and he has not stood out at all . . .he was also called out by Mayock for running a route badly . . . yes it was one play, but still . . .no way he is in the top 5 (as of now) . . .

Rice and Jarrett linger high in my rankings based on what I saw the last two years, not what they've done so far. Colbert is ahead of Jarrett? Hard to imagine that lasting more than a season, if that.Rice behind Williamson and Wade? Okay for now, but Rice has tons of talent and remains an excellent dynasty prospect. Seeing Jackson getting it at QB has upgraded Rice for me.

 

[JohnnyU]

but Rice has tons of talent and remains an excellent dynasty prospect. Seeing Jackson getting it at QB has upgraded Rice for me.

Seeing Jackson at QB downgrades Rice to me.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Rice has the most raw talent of any WR not named Calvin in this class. I think people get too overly concerned with how rookies do in preseason, especially the ones like Rice who are not as polished coming out of college. He is also only 20 years old. He has farther to go that most right from the start, but it doesn't mean a thing 3-4 years from now. He looks comfortable catching the ball already.

I think he is going to be a stud long term.

 

[JohnnyU]

Rice has the most raw talent of any WR not named Calvin in this class. I think people get too overly concerned with how rookies do in preseason, especially the ones like Rice who are not as polished coming out of college. He is also only 20 years old. He has farther to go that most right from the start, but it doesn't mean a thing 3-4 years from now. He looks comfortable catching the ball already. I think he is going to be a stud long term.

I'm an SEC guy even though I live in MN, and I know Rice has dominated at times in SEC play. He hawks the ball well and uses good body control, but doesn't run good routes and isn't a burner (I don't think that's important however). He's far from a finished product. What worries me most about Rice is his thin frame. He's managed to stay healthy so far, but I can see possible durability problems in his future. Also, I'm not sold on T Jackson as the QB throwing him the ball. That may change after this season, but I'm not holding my breath. I think a lot of dynasty players don't look at QB play enough when evaluating WRs. It's more important than most think. However, if Jackson stinks, he may only be behind center for a short time and who knows who the next QB will be.

 

[jurb26]

Rice has the most raw talent of any WR not named Calvin in this class. I think people get too overly concerned with how rookies do in preseason, especially the ones like Rice who are not as polished coming out of college. He is also only 20 years old. He has farther to go that most right from the start, but it doesn't mean a thing 3-4 years from now. He looks comfortable catching the ball already. I think he is going to be a stud long term.

Ginn easily has more talent.

 

[THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA]

can we get some more peoples top 6 in here?

 

[BoneYardDog]

can we get some more peoples top 6 in here?

1= Calvin Johnson - Because of who he is and the offense he is in and being opposite Roy...2= Steve Smith - Because Plaxico and Shockey have injury issues, Toomer is old and the kid catches everything in sight and has skills...3= Dwayne Bowe - After Gonzo he has Kennison and Parker. Big opportunity and Huard is the QB that is a plus. Will start slow but come on strong...4= Ted Ginn - Speed Speed, SPeed and the Dolphins need to justify the pick.5= Jacoby Jones - Only has to beat Walters and that should not take long. Has attitude and a good QB. Also Green, AJ and Owen Daniels are good weapons on the field with him plus the fans already love him...6= Dwayne Jarrett - Talent and situation...

 

[Keg]

whoever said lance moore, he is not a rookie...nfl.com shows that he was with NO last yr(no stats) and I believe that CLEV was his 1st team

 

[houdini]

1. Calvin

2. Rice

3. Jarrett

4. Gonzalez

5. Hill

6. Smith

My dynasty teams are talented enough and deep enough that I can generally afford to wait on these guys.

Gonzalez is high in part because he's super smart and will be learning from Harrison how to be a great player - I believe that the teaching is far more likely to rub off on him than on most other WRs.

 

[ILoveMyLions]

Great topic...

Dynasty is difficult to gauge for WRs until into the 2nd year IMO. We've seen WRs light it up in their rookie years, only to go on to average careers at best. Then we've seen guys from Day 1 look unreal and go on to prove they are the real deal. We've also had guys start out slow and take a year or two to adjust and go on to great careers. There is no formula and we cannot overreact to a few preseason games. I believe in looking at talent, then QB and the offense scheme when evaluating WRs. More than any other position, they often decide how much value a WR has.

Having said that, if I had to draft right now, here is how I would rank them...

1. Calvin Johnson - Simply the best talent I've seen come out of college in a long time.

2. Dwayne Bowe - I still think by next year he will be the Chiefs #1 WR and will go on to a solid NFL career.

3. James Jones - I must say, I am impressed. I didn't think he was this good until I watched him a week ago. I think he is the real deal ala Boldin a few years ago...my main concern is the retirement of Favre and that affect on the passing game. I think he'll be the #1 there as soon as next season.

4. Robert Meachem - Most don't have him this high, but when I draft WRs, I want potential studs. Meachem is that if he puts it together on this offense.

5. Anthony Gonzalez - I love his work ethic and instant connection with Manning. This is the exception to the rule, but he could be the #2 WR on this team in two years. After all, a #2 WR on the Colts becomes a top 15 WR in FF; just the potential there makes it difficult to not rank him in this general area.

After that...

Sidney Rice - I'm not sold on Rice, and until they get a QB and commit to the pass, I don't like his future prospects as much as those listed above. Has the potential to be a #1.

Dwayne Jarrett - I'm not a big fan, but could be a top red zone threat. The lack of speed is a concern.

Steve Smith - Should be a solid #2 for the Giants, but I don't see him being any more than that. He was in college, and is now the 3rd best option for the next few years.

Jacoby Jones - I'm not convinced he'll ever be more than a #2 WR/elite returner on this team. I think people have him way to high at this point.

Craig Davis - Has looked good, but is he any more than just a deep threat. With Gates and Jackson on this team, I don't think he is for the next few years.

Ted Ginn - Career slot WR and returner.

Edit - I did this off the top of my head and forgot L. Robinson. I'd rank him between Davis and Ginn at this point. He has talent, but seems raw and I'm not sure how well he'll be used in that system even if he does develop.

 

[beto]

Great thread

I am still tweaking this. I can't believe how deep this class is. I can't believe how strong the 3rd round guys have come on. I'm moving them up.

2. Gonzalez

3. James Jones

4. Jacoby Jones

5. Steve Smith

6. Meachem

 

[Koya]

1. Calvin

2. Rice

3. Jarrett

4. Gonzalez

5. Hill

6. Smith

My dynasty teams are talented enough and deep enough that I can generally afford to wait on these guys.

Gonzalez is high in part because he's super smart and will be learning from Harrison how to be a great player - I believe that the teaching is far more likely to rub off on him than on most other WRs.

Often as you see it, this shtick still gets me every time.

 

[JayMan]

For what it's worth... my main dynasty money draft (ppr / small rosters) was held tuesday night and the rookie WRs went in that order:

C. Johnson
R. Meachem
A. Gonzalez
T. Ginn Jr.
D. Bowe
D. Jarrett
S. Rice
James Jones
S. Smith
Jacoby Jones
C. DavisVery interesting seeing the 'non-consensus' amongst this year's class...

 

[Whiplash Inc.]

1. Calvin Johnson

2. Sidney Rice

3. Jacoby Jones

4. James Jones

5. Jason Hill

6. Anthony Gonzalez

 

[Andy Dufresne]

Rice has the most raw talent of any WR not named Calvin in this class. I think people get too overly concerned with how rookies do in preseason, especially the ones like Rice who are not as polished coming out of college. He is also only 20 years old. He has farther to go that most right from the start, but it doesn't mean a thing 3-4 years from now. He looks comfortable catching the ball already. I think he is going to be a stud long term.

Ginn easily has more talent.

Easily? I've been a Ginn promoter from the get go here, but while he's certainly more explosive, I don't think we can say he's easily more talented than Rice at this point.

 

[jurb26]

Rice has the most raw talent of any WR not named Calvin in this class. I think people get too overly concerned with how rookies do in preseason, especially the ones like Rice who are not as polished coming out of college. He is also only 20 years old. He has farther to go that most right from the start, but it doesn't mean a thing 3-4 years from now. He looks comfortable catching the ball already. I think he is going to be a stud long term.

Ginn easily has more talent.

Easily? I've been a Ginn promoter from the get go here, but while he's certainly more explosive, I don't think we can say he's easily more talented than Rice at this point.

Yup, easily.