Hakeem Nicks WR NYG (1 Viewer)

[The Moz]

Anyone have any great thoughts on this guy?

IMO he could be one of the real sleepers this season. Great route running , maybe the best hands of any wr drafted , and seems to pick things up fairly well. Only knock is a somewhat below desired top end speed. at 6'1 and 210 has decent size and strength as well. maybe it's just me but with NYG really havin g nothing per say at WR for talent - I think If Coughlin will play him he can really make a slash this season with potential of being another Boldin / Colston. I can see a 70 - 1050 - 8 season if he gets a legit shot to start. Right now i think Smith and Hixon are starters with Nicks currentley running 3rd I think - But come on Smith is a decent 3rd down outlet and Hixon can get deep but IMO neither are any where near Nicks in terms of talent. There is also Manningham who at least at UM seemed like he was pretty good but he was said to have struggled at least his first year learning everything.

So who thinks Nicks is a decent WR sleeper to put up WR #2 or WR #3 stats at around 1000 and 7 -- After Crabtree i thought this guy speedy or not as my #2 wr coming out.

thoughts?

 

[Patoons]

I'm a huge fan of this kid and picking him up whereever I can. He's got great hands and solid size, and the opportunity for him to be the #1 option is there for the taking. He's coming from a system where he should be NFL ready, so I think a solid rookie season could be on the horizon. However, I think 1,000+ and 7 TDs is a bit aggressive and wishful thinking. I'm thinking more in the 800 yd range.

 

[foxco]

...maybe.

Difficult to tell with rookies. Seems like there's always one or two who have good seasons, but often they're not the guys you were expecting. Calvin, Larry Fitz & Braylon Edwards were all much more highly touted than Nicks and none of them had great rookie seasons. I'd probably temper my enthusiasm a bit - there's also a chance he doesn't end up starting this year, Hixon could end up holding on to the job at least in the short term.

 

[lord_helmet]

ROY

 

[Riffraff]

Freakish large hands (XXXL gloves). Can make the circus catch. Good balance. Not the fastest or the tallest, but not slow or short. Has the "ball is mine" attitude that can't be taught.

700 yards and 6 TDs is a good goal for him as a rookie. Can possibly do better, but not getting my expectations high.

Crabtree and Nicks remind me of when Calvin and Bowe came out. Though I like Calvin much more than Crabtree. Maclin fills the Meachem spot. Harvin is the Anthony Gonzalez pick. Of course Hey-Bey is the Ginn selection. Britt can play Craig Davis.

No, those players don't equate perfectly to all the references, just feels like that kind of draft. Lots of 1st round WRs, some turned out good, some turned out bad.

 

[bcr8f]

Maclin is Meachem?

 

[Ripleys]

ROY

With a great avatar like that, you REALLY should post more. LONESTAR!!!!!

 

[massraider]

Steve Smith is dramatically underrated.

 

[Patoons]

Steve Smith is dramatically underrated.

He definitely is, but I think they're different kinds of players with different ceilings.Smith will be solid this year in playing the Toomer possession role. Smith likely won't ever be a #1 WR and Nicks could.

 

[Hoss_Cartwright]

Steve Smith is dramatically underrated.

He definitely is, but I think they're different kinds of players with different ceilings.Smith will be solid this year in playing the Toomer possession role. Smith likely won't ever be a #1 WR and Nicks could.

Precisely !!

 

[The Moz]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

 

[Patoons]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

He did play in a pro style offense at UNC, so it's definitely possible.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Anyone have any great thoughts on this guy?

IMO he could be one of the real sleepers this season. Great route running , maybe the best hands of any wr drafted , and seems to pick things up fairly well. Only knock is a somewhat below desired top end speed. at 6'1 and 210 has decent size and strength as well. maybe it's just me but with NYG really havin g nothing per say at WR for talent - I think If Coughlin will play him he can really make a slash this season with potential of being another Boldin / Colston. I can see a 70 - 1050 - 8 season if he gets a legit shot to start. Right now i think Smith and Hixon are starters with Nicks currentley running 3rd I think - But come on Smith is a decent 3rd down outlet and Hixon can get deep but IMO neither are any where near Nicks in terms of talent. There is also Manningham who at least at UM seemed like he was pretty good but he was said to have struggled at least his first year learning everything.

So who thinks Nicks is a decent WR sleeper to put up WR #2 or WR #3 stats at around 1000 and 7 -- After Crabtree i thought this guy speedy or not as my #2 wr coming out.

thoughts?

You might like to read the bit about Hicks in this article about some of the first looks at the most impressive rookies from this draft class. Sorry can't cut-and-paste the part about Hicks for some reason so you'll have to click on the link.First looks at the 2009 NFL draft's most impressive rookies

It starts by saying that: "Perhaps no rookie has created more of a buzz during May mini camps than Nicks did with the Giants."

Go to the link for the rest of the blurb and their takes on the other most impressive rookies during May minicamps.

Good read that also covers:

RB Glenn Coffee SF, TE Jared Cook TEN, WR Deon Butler SEA, among others in the top ten most impressive rookies (also lists defenders for the IDP crowd).

 

[gregjcross]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

 

[Avery]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

 

[gregjcross]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

This is a matter of splitting hairs.. but Nicks, with his size, seems should have put him ahead of Darius H. Bey and then for the Eagles, he looks much bigger and stronger than Jeremy Maclin, who is a great talent, but to me seems that if they were equal pass catchers that Nicks would have been a far better complement to the elf sized Desean Jackson. So, The Raiders, Eagles, Ravens, Dolphins (latter two who badly needed a WR on draft day) passed him over. That's the only point on that, not so much a knock on Nicks or the G-men. I truly think they see something that others chose to ignore, and given their draft track record , its not a bad thing.

 

[Avery]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

This is a matter of splitting hairs.. but Nicks, with his size, seems should have put him ahead of Darius H. Bey and then for the Eagles, he looks much bigger and stronger than Jeremy Maclin, who is a great talent, but to me seems that if they were equal pass catchers that Nicks would have been a far better complement to the elf sized Desean Jackson. So, The Raiders, Eagles, Ravens, Dolphins (latter two who badly needed a WR on draft day) passed him over. That's the only point on that, not so much a knock on Nicks or the G-men. I truly think they see something that others chose to ignore, and given their draft track record , its not a bad thing.

I guess I don't get what you're saying.The Dolphins and Ravens chose not to select a WR in round 1 and grab top talent at another position so I don't see how they are relevant. To compare Michael Oher and Vontae Davis the Nicks is classic "apples to oranges."

Outside of Crabtree Nicks' game is so different than the other WRs that were drafted ahead of him (Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin) that it's just a matter of taste from the teams front offices. I just don't see how Nicks being drafted at the end of the first round instead of the top should be construed as the Giants have some great insight into Nicks talent that others teams can't comprehend.

 

[gregjcross]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

This is a matter of splitting hairs.. but Nicks, with his size, seems should have put him ahead of Darius H. Bey and then for the Eagles, he looks much bigger and stronger than Jeremy Maclin, who is a great talent, but to me seems that if they were equal pass catchers that Nicks would have been a far better complement to the elf sized Desean Jackson. So, The Raiders, Eagles, Ravens, Dolphins (latter two who badly needed a WR on draft day) passed him over. That's the only point on that, not so much a knock on Nicks or the G-men. I truly think they see something that others chose to ignore, and given their draft track record , its not a bad thing.

I guess I don't get what you're saying.The Dolphins and Ravens chose not to select a WR in round 1 and grab top talent at another position so I don't see how they are relevant. To compare Michael Oher and Vontae Davis the Nicks is classic "apples to oranges."

Outside of Crabtree Nicks' game is so different than the other WRs that were drafted ahead of him (Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin) that it's just a matter of taste from the teams front offices. I just don't see how Nicks being drafted at the end of the first round instead of the top should be construed as the Giants have some great insight into Nicks talent that others teams can't comprehend.

I never said antyhing about "great insight that other teams cant comprehend." See something different. that's all. Happy hunting.

 

[Avery]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

This is a matter of splitting hairs.. but Nicks, with his size, seems should have put him ahead of Darius H. Bey and then for the Eagles, he looks much bigger and stronger than Jeremy Maclin, who is a great talent, but to me seems that if they were equal pass catchers that Nicks would have been a far better complement to the elf sized Desean Jackson. So, The Raiders, Eagles, Ravens, Dolphins (latter two who badly needed a WR on draft day) passed him over. That's the only point on that, not so much a knock on Nicks or the G-men. I truly think they see something that others chose to ignore, and given their draft track record , its not a bad thing.

I guess I don't get what you're saying.The Dolphins and Ravens chose not to select a WR in round 1 and grab top talent at another position so I don't see how they are relevant. To compare Michael Oher and Vontae Davis the Nicks is classic "apples to oranges."

Outside of Crabtree Nicks' game is so different than the other WRs that were drafted ahead of him (Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin) that it's just a matter of taste from the teams front offices. I just don't see how Nicks being drafted at the end of the first round instead of the top should be construed as the Giants have some great insight into Nicks talent that others teams can't comprehend.

I never said antyhing about "great insight that other teams cant comprehend." See something different. that's all. Happy hunting.

Thanks?

 

[Dodge]

You might like to read the bit about Hicks in this article about some of the first looks at the most impressive rookies from this draft class. Sorry can't cut-and-paste the part about Hicks for some reason so you'll have to click on the link.

First looks at the 2009 NFL draft's most impressive rookies

It starts by saying that: "Perhaps no rookie has created more of a buzz during May mini camps than Nicks did with the Giants."

Go to the link for the rest of the blurb and their takes on the other most impressive rookies during May minicamps.

--Hakeem Nicks, WR, New York Giants: Perhaps no rookie created more of a buzz during the May minicamps than Nicks did with the Giants. While fellow receiver Ramses Barden, the Giants' third-round pick, also made some impressive plays, Nicks' secure hands and combination of toughness, size and strength when competing for contested passes caused him to stand out during the team's May 8-10 rookie camp. Fantasy football enthusiasts take note. Nicks, not Michael Crabtree, Darrius Heyward-Bey or Jeremy Maclin, will be the most consistently impressive rookie receiver in 2009.Your link is broken.

Link.

 

[Billy Ball Thorton]

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont, and if he is as good as his short amount of film shows, they might have something rapidly. Looks like he knows how to work all parts of the field with his route running.

He seems like the kind of guy that could start to explode after Oct. 20th once he grasps everything (not just the ball)

Most pre-draft scouting reports had him at about a top 5 WR prospect in the draft and that's just where he went, 5th WR off the board.

This is a matter of splitting hairs.. but Nicks, with his size, seems should have put him ahead of Darius H. Bey and then for the Eagles, he looks much bigger and stronger than Jeremy Maclin, who is a great talent, but to me seems that if they were equal pass catchers that Nicks would have been a far better complement to the elf sized Desean Jackson. So, The Raiders, Eagles, Ravens, Dolphins (latter two who badly needed a WR on draft day) passed him over. That's the only point on that, not so much a knock on Nicks or the G-men. I truly think they see something that others chose to ignore, and given their draft track record , its not a bad thing.

I guess I don't get what you're saying.The Dolphins and Ravens chose not to select a WR in round 1 and grab top talent at another position so I don't see how they are relevant. To compare Michael Oher and Vontae Davis the Nicks is classic "apples to oranges."

Outside of Crabtree Nicks' game is so different than the other WRs that were drafted ahead of him (Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin) that it's just a matter of taste from the teams front offices. I just don't see how Nicks being drafted at the end of the first round instead of the top should be construed as the Giants have some great insight into Nicks talent that others teams can't comprehend.

It's common knowladge that th Giants wanted Maclin and settled for Nicks. So the Giants wanted to go Wr and settled on Nicks over maybe someone like Britt. Other teams obviously though otherwise

 

[lord_helmet]

David Diehl on Hakeem Nicks:

http://www.nypost.com/seven/06122009/sport...e_ro_173898.htm

"I like the way his attitude is. I like everything about what he's trying to do here. He's planning on staying here all summer so he can throw and catch with Eli [Manning]. He's spending extra time in his playbook. He's watching film. He's doing things that veterans do. It's awesome to see. That's how you succeed and that's how you make a splash in the NFL."

 

[Avery]

It's common knowladge that th Giants wanted Maclin and settled for Nicks. So the Giants wanted to go Wr and settled on Nicks over maybe someone like Britt. Other teams obviously though otherwise

First, of all it's common knowledge that there is a unsubstantiated rumor that the Giants wanted Maclin. Giants brass still denies it. There is another, but less repeated, rumor that the WR the Giants were really after was Heyward-Bay. That's not to say that the Maclin rumor isn't true, but just because a lot of people repeat a rumor doesn't make it true and "common knowledge".Second, whether or not the Giants preferred Maclin wasn't my point here. I was responding to gregjcross posting:

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont...

implying that the Giants reached for Nicks and/or had him higher on their draft board then other teams. Again, Nicks went just about where he was predicted to go. Bottom of the first and 5th WR off the board so I don't see how the Giants staying at their original draft spot, and taking Nicks after Crabtree, Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin are off the board equates to the Giants seeing something in Nicks other owners don't. That's all. Not a big deal, but that's all.

 

[Multiple Scores]

It's common knowladge that th Giants wanted Maclin and settled for Nicks. So the Giants wanted to go Wr and settled on Nicks over maybe someone like Britt. Other teams obviously though otherwise

First, of all it's common knowledge that there is a unsubstantiated rumor that the Giants wanted Maclin. Giants brass still denies it. There is another, but less repeated, rumor that the WR the Giants were really after was Heyward-Bay. That's not to say that the Maclin rumor isn't true, but just because a lot of people repeat a rumor doesn't make it true and "common knowledge".Second, whether or not the Giants preferred Maclin wasn't my point here. I was responding to gregjcross posting:

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont...

implying that the Giants reached for Nicks and/or had him higher on their draft board then other teams. Again, Nicks went just about where he was predicted to go. Bottom of the first and 5th WR off the board so I don't see how the Giants staying at their original draft spot, and taking Nicks after Crabtree, Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin are off the board equates to the Giants seeing something in Nicks other owners don't. That's all. Not a big deal, but that's all.

I'm not really sure why it would matter if the Giants really wanted Maclin or not, Maclin was thought to be a top 10 pick right up to the draft and he slid down to 19, the Giants picked 30th if I recall. Who is to say that the Giants didn't really want Crabtree, Jason Smith, Eugene Monroe or Knowshon Moreno and if they did want these players what does it have to do with anything?

 

[Avery]

It's common knowladge that th Giants wanted Maclin and settled for Nicks. So the Giants wanted to go Wr and settled on Nicks over maybe someone like Britt. Other teams obviously though otherwise

First, of all it's common knowledge that there is a unsubstantiated rumor that the Giants wanted Maclin. Giants brass still denies it. There is another, but less repeated, rumor that the WR the Giants were really after was Heyward-Bay. That's not to say that the Maclin rumor isn't true, but just because a lot of people repeat a rumor doesn't make it true and "common knowledge".Second, whether or not the Giants preferred Maclin wasn't my point here. I was responding to gregjcross posting:

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont...

implying that the Giants reached for Nicks and/or had him higher on their draft board then other teams. Again, Nicks went just about where he was predicted to go. Bottom of the first and 5th WR off the board so I don't see how the Giants staying at their original draft spot, and taking Nicks after Crabtree, Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin are off the board equates to the Giants seeing something in Nicks other owners don't. That's all. Not a big deal, but that's all.

I'm not really sure why it would matter if the Giants really wanted Maclin or not, Maclin was thought to be a top 10 pick right up to the draft and he slid down to 19, the Giants picked 30th if I recall. Who is to say that the Giants didn't really want Crabtree, Jason Smith, Eugene Monroe or Knowshon Moreno and if they did want these players what does it have to do with anything?

 

[Liquid Tension]

It's common knowladge that th Giants wanted Maclin and settled for Nicks. So the Giants wanted to go Wr and settled on Nicks over maybe someone like Britt. Other teams obviously though otherwise

First, of all it's common knowledge that there is a unsubstantiated rumor that the Giants wanted Maclin. Giants brass still denies it. There is another, but less repeated, rumor that the WR the Giants were really after was Heyward-Bay. That's not to say that the Maclin rumor isn't true, but just because a lot of people repeat a rumor doesn't make it true and "common knowledge".Second, whether or not the Giants preferred Maclin wasn't my point here. I was responding to gregjcross posting:

Tough to see a Hakeem Nicks walking in and being a great player that fast --but he has the body to do it. Maybe the Giants see something that other owners dont...

implying that the Giants reached for Nicks and/or had him higher on their draft board then other teams. Again, Nicks went just about where he was predicted to go. Bottom of the first and 5th WR off the board so I don't see how the Giants staying at their original draft spot, and taking Nicks after Crabtree, Heyward-Bay, Maclin and Harvin are off the board equates to the Giants seeing something in Nicks other owners don't. That's all. Not a big deal, but that's all.

 

[lord_helmet]

So far so good

"Nicks has signed a five-year contract with the Giants believed to be worth $12.5 million, the Newark Star-Ledger reports."

 

[Chicago Hooligan]

It's tough for me to picture Nicks coming in and being worth a fantasy draft pick. Last year's unusually strong FF performances from rookie WRs and RBs have people a little cuckoo this season. Nicks is on a run-first team and isn't a sure bet to start. There is no way on earth he puts up 1,000 yards this season. I would be very surprised if he comes close to what DeSean Jackson did on a pass-happy offensive team (100 more attempts in PHI than NYG) last year - 60/900. No way.

 

[Tau837]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

 

[texasbirdfan]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

4th year huh? I think there is virtually no chance Hixon beats out Nicks barring injury by mid season

 

[dparker713]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

Played well? He was a drops machine including a key drop deep against the Eagles that should have led to a long TD to take the lead. Sure he played, but he did not play well.

 

[FUBAR]

It's tough for me to picture Nicks coming in and being worth a fantasy draft pick. Last year's unusually strong FF performances from rookie WRs and RBs have people a little cuckoo this season. Nicks is on a run-first team and isn't a sure bet to start. There is no way on earth he puts up 1,000 yards this season. I would be very surprised if he comes close to what DeSean Jackson did on a pass-happy offensive team (100 more attempts in PHI than NYG) last year - 60/900. No way.

In the previous 3 seasons, Eli threw 50-70 more times than last year. The Giants lost Derrick Ward, although they still are strong at the position. There's plenty of reason to think Nicks can do better than DJax did last year. I won't expect it, but it's very possible.

 

[Tau837]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

Played well? He was a drops machine including a key drop deep against the Eagles that should have led to a long TD to take the lead. Sure he played, but he did not play well.

Last year, Burress didn't play in week 5 or any game after week 12. In those 7 games, including their postseason game, Hixon had 53 targets, 28 catches, 433 receiving yards (15.5 ypr), and 2 TDs. Over 16 games, that would scale to 121 targets, 64 catches, 990 yards, and 5 TDs. Not bad for a guy in his first opportunity as a starting WR in the NFL.In addition to that, 40% of his targets and 67% of his catches resulted in first downs, both figures in the top 20 in the NFC. And you say he was a drops machine, yet he only had 2 drops in 72 targets on the season. Apparently, we have different definitions of "drops machine."

Here are the FBG summaries for those 7 games mentioned above:

Week 5 - Hixon started for the suspended Plaxico Burress, and made a splash early catching two deep passes in the first quarter, one of which went for a 32 yard touchdown. He finished the first half with 102 yards and hauled in all of his four targets. The Giants went away from the pass in the second half, and they rotated in more backup receivers, so he didn't have any catches after that.

Week 13 - Starting for the injured Burress, Domenik Hixon filled in and had another productive outing while seeing a team high nine targets come his way. Hixon was able to catch five balls for 75 yards and did most of his damage on ten to 12 yard timing patterns. He seemed very much in sync with Manning and was able to show off his great hands, bringing in a few tough catches in traffic.

Week 14 - Hixon struggled in the loss catching only three of his nine targets and dropping a wide open deep ball on an early first half pass from Eli Manning. This play pretty much summed up his day as Philadelphia was always on him, often breaking up passes with solid hitting. He gained only 30 yards however was a clear trusted option for Eli Manning. He was looked at early and often and was given multiple opportunities to be a playmaker on offense.

Week 15 - Hixon's first target of the game fell to the ground incomplete, but on the play he was able to draw a 32 yard pass interference penalty. Three of his six catches, including his long gain of 19 yards, came with less than eight minutes remaining as the Giants were trying to play catch up. Hixon was the intended receiver on QB Eli Manning's first interception of the game.

Week 16 - Hixon was the most targeted Giants' receiver. He caught a pass on the team's first play from scrimmage that went for nine yards. He hauled in his second target that went for a gain of 40 and took the ball down to the Carolina 18 yard line. Third target fell to the ground incomplete. His fifth target went for a pickup of ten yards and a first down.

Week 17 - Domenik Hixon was very active in the first half. He had some very nice yards after the catch. He also received the first touchdown pass of David Carr before he rested the rest of the game. Hixon did experience some problems in going up for the ball. Out of eight targets he only hauled in four. The passing game was not very active but Hixon made the most of it.

Week 19 - Hixon was targeted six times and finished with two receptions for 37 yards.

Those summaries mention one drop but also make note of his great hands in another game. Doesn't seem like drops are a big problem for him. And consider that had he made that catch against Philly, he would have had another 80+ yard TD. Then his numbers would look that much better.So, yes, he played well.

 

[H8fulHuck]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

Played well? He was a drops machine including a key drop deep against the Eagles that should have led to a long TD to take the lead. Sure he played, but he did not play well.

Last year, Burress didn't play in week 5 or any game after week 12. In those 7 games, including their postseason game, Hixon had 53 targets, 28 catches, 433 receiving yards (15.5 ypr), and 2 TDs. Over 16 games, that would scale to 121 targets, 64 catches, 990 yards, and 5 TDs. Not bad for a guy in his first opportunity as a starting WR in the NFL.In addition to that, 40% of his targets and 67% of his catches resulted in first downs, both figures in the top 20 in the NFC. And you say he was a drops machine, yet he only had 2 drops in 72 targets on the season. Apparently, we have different definitions of "drops machine."

Here are the FBG summaries for those 7 games mentioned above:

Week 5 - Hixon started for the suspended Plaxico Burress, and made a splash early catching two deep passes in the first quarter, one of which went for a 32 yard touchdown. He finished the first half with 102 yards and hauled in all of his four targets. The Giants went away from the pass in the second half, and they rotated in more backup receivers, so he didn't have any catches after that.

Week 13 - Starting for the injured Burress, Domenik Hixon filled in and had another productive outing while seeing a team high nine targets come his way. Hixon was able to catch five balls for 75 yards and did most of his damage on ten to 12 yard timing patterns. He seemed very much in sync with Manning and was able to show off his great hands, bringing in a few tough catches in traffic.

Week 14 - Hixon struggled in the loss catching only three of his nine targets and dropping a wide open deep ball on an early first half pass from Eli Manning. This play pretty much summed up his day as Philadelphia was always on him, often breaking up passes with solid hitting. He gained only 30 yards however was a clear trusted option for Eli Manning. He was looked at early and often and was given multiple opportunities to be a playmaker on offense.

Week 15 - Hixon's first target of the game fell to the ground incomplete, but on the play he was able to draw a 32 yard pass interference penalty. Three of his six catches, including his long gain of 19 yards, came with less than eight minutes remaining as the Giants were trying to play catch up. Hixon was the intended receiver on QB Eli Manning's first interception of the game.

Week 16 - Hixon was the most targeted Giants' receiver. He caught a pass on the team's first play from scrimmage that went for nine yards. He hauled in his second target that went for a gain of 40 and took the ball down to the Carolina 18 yard line. Third target fell to the ground incomplete. His fifth target went for a pickup of ten yards and a first down.

Week 17 - Domenik Hixon was very active in the first half. He had some very nice yards after the catch. He also received the first touchdown pass of David Carr before he rested the rest of the game. Hixon did experience some problems in going up for the ball. Out of eight targets he only hauled in four. The passing game was not very active but Hixon made the most of it.

Week 19 - Hixon was targeted six times and finished with two receptions for 37 yards.

Those summaries mention one drop but also make note of his great hands in another game. Doesn't seem like drops are a big problem for him. And consider that had he made that catch against Philly, he would have had another 80+ yard TD. Then his numbers would look that much better.So, yes, he played well.

Sounds like someone is trying to drive down the cost to draft Hixon.

 

[dparker713]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

Played well? He was a drops machine including a key drop deep against the Eagles that should have led to a long TD to take the lead. Sure he played, but he did not play well.

Last year, Burress didn't play in week 5 or any game after week 12. In those 7 games, including their postseason game, Hixon had 53 targets, 28 catches, 433 receiving yards (15.5 ypr), and 2 TDs. Over 16 games, that would scale to 121 targets, 64 catches, 990 yards, and 5 TDs. Not bad for a guy in his first opportunity as a starting WR in the NFL.In addition to that, 40% of his targets and 67% of his catches resulted in first downs, both figures in the top 20 in the NFC. And you say he was a drops machine, yet he only had 2 drops in 72 targets on the season. Apparently, we have different definitions of "drops machine."

Here are the FBG summaries for those 7 games mentioned above:

Week 5 - Hixon started for the suspended Plaxico Burress, and made a splash early catching two deep passes in the first quarter, one of which went for a 32 yard touchdown. He finished the first half with 102 yards and hauled in all of his four targets. The Giants went away from the pass in the second half, and they rotated in more backup receivers, so he didn't have any catches after that.

Week 13 - Starting for the injured Burress, Domenik Hixon filled in and had another productive outing while seeing a team high nine targets come his way. Hixon was able to catch five balls for 75 yards and did most of his damage on ten to 12 yard timing patterns. He seemed very much in sync with Manning and was able to show off his great hands, bringing in a few tough catches in traffic.

Week 14 - Hixon struggled in the loss catching only three of his nine targets and dropping a wide open deep ball on an early first half pass from Eli Manning. This play pretty much summed up his day as Philadelphia was always on him, often breaking up passes with solid hitting. He gained only 30 yards however was a clear trusted option for Eli Manning. He was looked at early and often and was given multiple opportunities to be a playmaker on offense.

Week 15 - Hixon's first target of the game fell to the ground incomplete, but on the play he was able to draw a 32 yard pass interference penalty. Three of his six catches, including his long gain of 19 yards, came with less than eight minutes remaining as the Giants were trying to play catch up. Hixon was the intended receiver on QB Eli Manning's first interception of the game.

Week 16 - Hixon was the most targeted Giants' receiver. He caught a pass on the team's first play from scrimmage that went for nine yards. He hauled in his second target that went for a gain of 40 and took the ball down to the Carolina 18 yard line. Third target fell to the ground incomplete. His fifth target went for a pickup of ten yards and a first down.

Week 17 - Domenik Hixon was very active in the first half. He had some very nice yards after the catch. He also received the first touchdown pass of David Carr before he rested the rest of the game. Hixon did experience some problems in going up for the ball. Out of eight targets he only hauled in four. The passing game was not very active but Hixon made the most of it.

Week 19 - Hixon was targeted six times and finished with two receptions for 37 yards.

Those summaries mention one drop but also make note of his great hands in another game. Doesn't seem like drops are a big problem for him. And consider that had he made that catch against Philly, he would have had another 80+ yard TD. Then his numbers would look that much better.So, yes, he played well.

The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands.

The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

 

[Tau837]

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

Played well? He was a drops machine including a key drop deep against the Eagles that should have led to a long TD to take the lead. Sure he played, but he did not play well.

Last year, Burress didn't play in week 5 or any game after week 12. In those 7 games, including their postseason game, Hixon had 53 targets, 28 catches, 433 receiving yards (15.5 ypr), and 2 TDs. Over 16 games, that would scale to 121 targets, 64 catches, 990 yards, and 5 TDs. Not bad for a guy in his first opportunity as a starting WR in the NFL.In addition to that, 40% of his targets and 67% of his catches resulted in first downs, both figures in the top 20 in the NFC. And you say he was a drops machine, yet he only had 2 drops in 72 targets on the season. Apparently, we have different definitions of "drops machine."

Here are the FBG summaries for those 7 games mentioned above:

Week 5 - Hixon started for the suspended Plaxico Burress, and made a splash early catching two deep passes in the first quarter, one of which went for a 32 yard touchdown. He finished the first half with 102 yards and hauled in all of his four targets. The Giants went away from the pass in the second half, and they rotated in more backup receivers, so he didn't have any catches after that.

Week 13 - Starting for the injured Burress, Domenik Hixon filled in and had another productive outing while seeing a team high nine targets come his way. Hixon was able to catch five balls for 75 yards and did most of his damage on ten to 12 yard timing patterns. He seemed very much in sync with Manning and was able to show off his great hands, bringing in a few tough catches in traffic.

Week 14 - Hixon struggled in the loss catching only three of his nine targets and dropping a wide open deep ball on an early first half pass from Eli Manning. This play pretty much summed up his day as Philadelphia was always on him, often breaking up passes with solid hitting. He gained only 30 yards however was a clear trusted option for Eli Manning. He was looked at early and often and was given multiple opportunities to be a playmaker on offense.

Week 15 - Hixon's first target of the game fell to the ground incomplete, but on the play he was able to draw a 32 yard pass interference penalty. Three of his six catches, including his long gain of 19 yards, came with less than eight minutes remaining as the Giants were trying to play catch up. Hixon was the intended receiver on QB Eli Manning's first interception of the game.

Week 16 - Hixon was the most targeted Giants' receiver. He caught a pass on the team's first play from scrimmage that went for nine yards. He hauled in his second target that went for a gain of 40 and took the ball down to the Carolina 18 yard line. Third target fell to the ground incomplete. His fifth target went for a pickup of ten yards and a first down.

Week 17 - Domenik Hixon was very active in the first half. He had some very nice yards after the catch. He also received the first touchdown pass of David Carr before he rested the rest of the game. Hixon did experience some problems in going up for the ball. Out of eight targets he only hauled in four. The passing game was not very active but Hixon made the most of it.

Week 19 - Hixon was targeted six times and finished with two receptions for 37 yards.

Those summaries mention one drop but also make note of his great hands in another game. Doesn't seem like drops are a big problem for him. And consider that had he made that catch against Philly, he would have had another 80+ yard TD. Then his numbers would look that much better.So, yes, he played well.

The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands.

The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

Yes, his catch percentage needs improvement, no doubt. Though my impression is that he is used often as a deep threat, which can mean a lower catch percentage.Despite his catch percentage, he still converted almost as high a percentage of his targets to first downs as Smith (40% for Hixon, 42% for Smith), and he actually dropped fewer passes (2 in 72 targets for Hixon, 3 in 82 targets for Smith).

There is a lot of merit in your posts, but IMO you have underrepresented Hixon's play last year. "Drop machine", for example, is obviously off base.

 

[Matt Waldman]

Maclin is Meachem?

He's closer to Meachem than many of the 2009 rookie prospects. He played in a simple offense, was limited to simpler routes, and he was used much like Meachem was at Tennessee. He catches the ball better, but I would take Nicks over Maclin in a heartbeat.

 

[az_prof]

[The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands. The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

53% catch % on targets is not horrible. It's about average for a starting WR in the NFL. He will need to improve it but it is not "awful." Under 50% is bad. Under 45% is awful. However, it is more complicated because guys who run deep routes tend to have a lower catch % than guys who run shorter patterns.

 

[Chairshot]

The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands. The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

The 2009 Football Outsiders Almanac does a good job of showing how Hixon was better then Burress last year based on DVOA. If you like DVOA, Hixon was far and away the best WR on the team last year among anyone who had 50 or more targets. Two drops all year is hardly a drop machine. Hixon had the highest YPC of any of the qualifying WRs on the team, including Burress.I, like you, have watched virtually all the games from recent seasons and at no point have I thought Hixon had bad hands at all. He had one horrible drop in a horrible, high profile spot. His hands are good.I like Steve Smith plenty, but he really hasn't proven to be anything but a very good 3rd down receiver (which isn't me bashing the guy, because reliable 3rd down guys are worth their weight in gold). His YPC kinda sucks right now. Hixon's YPC was significantly better last year (13.9 to 10.1). He's sure handed, but he rarely gets you anything after the catch. Great for 3rd downs, not so great for a starter.My gut feeling is that we will have Hixon as the starter all year in Burress' old role, Nicks has a shot to start from week one in Toomer's old role, but if Smith beats him out initially, Nicks will take over by mid year. Smith is best served as the 3rd down receiver, at least based on what he has shown us so far.Nicks, like any other 1st round pick, is going to get his shot as soon as the team thinks they can reasonably throw him out there. First round picks almost always get their shots sooner rather then later.Right now, though, the only guy I think has a reasonable shot at 1000 yards is Hixon. Maybe training camp changes that, who knows. The Giants are going to spread it around quite a bit in the passing game, I think.

 

[dparker713]

Yes, his catch percentage needs improvement, no doubt. Though my impression is that he is used often as a deep threat, which can mean a lower catch percentage.Despite his catch percentage, he still converted almost as high a percentage of his targets to first downs as Smith (40% for Hixon, 42% for Smith), and he actually dropped fewer passes (2 in 72 targets for Hixon, 3 in 82 targets for Smith).There is a lot of merit in your posts, but IMO you have underrepresented Hixon's play last year. "Drop machine", for example, is obviously off base.

Well, the drop against Philly is still burned in my mind, so that has something to do with it. When defenses headed into the week knowing Plax wasnt going to play, he had difficulty getting open and converting. And considering the routes he ran last year, I'd fully expect most of his receptions being first downs. Problem he didnt make nearly enough catches given his opportunities.

 

[dparker713]

The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands. The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

The 2009 Football Outsiders Almanac does a good job of showing how Hixon was better then Burress last year based on DVOA. If you like DVOA, Hixon was far and away the best WR on the team last year among anyone who had 50 or more targets. Two drops all year is hardly a drop machine. Hixon had the highest YPC of any of the qualifying WRs on the team, including Burress.I, like you, have watched virtually all the games from recent seasons and at no point have I thought Hixon had bad hands at all. He had one horrible drop in a horrible, high profile spot. His hands are good.I like Steve Smith plenty, but he really hasn't proven to be anything but a very good 3rd down receiver (which isn't me bashing the guy, because reliable 3rd down guys are worth their weight in gold). His YPC kinda sucks right now. Hixon's YPC was significantly better last year (13.9 to 10.1). He's sure handed, but he rarely gets you anything after the catch. Great for 3rd downs, not so great for a starter.My gut feeling is that we will have Hixon as the starter all year in Burress' old role, Nicks has a shot to start from week one in Toomer's old role, but if Smith beats him out initially, Nicks will take over by mid year. Smith is best served as the 3rd down receiver, at least based on what he has shown us so far.Nicks, like any other 1st round pick, is going to get his shot as soon as the team thinks they can reasonably throw him out there. First round picks almost always get their shots sooner rather then later.Right now, though, the only guy I think has a reasonable shot at 1000 yards is Hixon. Maybe training camp changes that, who knows. The Giants are going to spread it around quite a bit in the passing game, I think.

Im a big fan of Sabermetrics in baseball, but football just isnt even close to properly evaluating player contributions, atleast not the statistics available to the public. So no, I dont really find VORP all that valueable. Afterall, defenses accounted for Burress in their coverage packages something that didnt seem to happen for Hixon. There is a definite value to that above and beyond the production of the individual player. Besides, Burress's production peaked in the first half of '07.The Giants didnt draft Nicks to step into Toomer's role. He's explosive and athletic, his ceiling is certainly higher than a possession receiver. They drafted him to replace Burress. I highly doubt he'll be able to do that this year. But make no mistake, his competition for a starting spot is Hixon, Manningham, et al. Its not Smith. Smith is a classic possession receiver - mark down his name in Toomer's spot right now in ink.

 

[Two Deep]

Nicks will not play in Hixon's spot. Somebody has to stretch the field and it won't be Nicks.

 

[dparker713]

[The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands. The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

53% catch % on targets is not horrible. It's about average for a starting WR in the NFL. He will need to improve it but it is not "awful." Under 50% is bad. Under 45% is awful. However, it is more complicated because guys who run deep routes tend to have a lower catch % than guys who run shorter patterns.

I find that to be more of an indictment against the league average WR than a vindication of Hixon.

 

[dapunisher]

I just cannot see Hixon beating out Nicks as Nicks is better in virtually everything other than raw speed. if Nicks is the #1 I really think a Colston Boldin type rookie might happen.

In terms of physical ability, you may be correct, but you are ignoring the experience advantage Hixon has. This will be Hixon's 4th year in the league, and he played well down the stretch last season. I think there is virtually no chance Nicks beats out Hixon, barring injury.

 

[Neo]

Been hearing a lot of positives about Nicks in NY. Here's an example:

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpag...7080&spln=1

 

[EBF]

Been hearing a lot of positives about Nicks in NY. Here's an example:

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpag...7080&spln=1

I think he's the best WR they have. Hixon is this year's DJ Hackett. All hype and little substance. I think Nicks is capable of a Dwayne Bowe type rookie season. We'll see how the depth chart looks when opening day rolls around. If he's penciled into the starting lineup then that tells me the staff has faith in him. If Hixon wins the job then Nicks might have to wait a little while. He's the future WR1 here though. It's only a matter of time.

 

[Moonlight_Graham]

Been hearing a lot of positives about Nicks in NY. Here's an example:

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpag...7080&spln=1

I think he's the best WR they have. Hixon is this year's DJ Hackett. All hype and little substance. I think Nicks is capable of a Dwayne Bowe type rookie season. We'll see how the depth chart looks when opening day rolls around. If he's penciled into the starting lineup then that tells me the staff has faith in him. If Hixon wins the job then Nicks might have to wait a little while. He's the future WR1 here though. It's only a matter of time.

I agree. Actually he's my favorite WR in this draft, then Harvin (minus the off the field crap). He's better than Crabtree IMO.

 

[rexthewonderdog]

Seriously, one word when it comes to rookie WR's:

Opportunity.

Nicks has it. Not many others do. What he does with it remains to be seen, but regardless it elevates him above other rookies in his class. Yes, even Crabtree (in 2009, at the very least), since he decided to be an idiot and now looks braced for a long holdout.

 

[Darker Knight]

[The drop against Philly was the single most significant drop of the Giants season last year. During the stretch where he was supposed to be the replacement for Burress after week 12, he converted on a Chris Chambers-esk 50% of his targets. And in your sample, he's only up to a 52.8% conversion percentage. Thats just horrible. He had a few good games, but he lack consistency from game to game and even within games. He performed much better as a complimentary player and deep threat in weeks 1-12 converting on 75% of his targets. And having watched all the games the last several years, at no point have I thought he had above average hands. The easy call for the best performer out of the Giants WRs last year is Steve Smith. Week to week, certain guys had good games, but overall aside from Smith they didnt not play well as a group. There is a reason the Giants once again used a high pick on a WR.

53% catch % on targets is not horrible. It's about average for a starting WR in the NFL. He will need to improve it but it is not "awful." Under 50% is bad. Under 45% is awful. However, it is more complicated because guys who run deep routes tend to have a lower catch % than guys who run shorter patterns.

He caught 57% of his passes for the year.....not great but pretty good

 

[Everready]

Maclin is Meachem?

He's closer to Meachem than many of the 2009 rookie prospects. He played in a simple offense, was limited to simpler routes, and he was used much like Meachem was at Tennessee. He catches the ball better, but I would take Nicks over Maclin in a heartbeat.

Matt, when you say that you "...would take Nicks over Maclin in a heartbeat," are you only thinking in a re-draft league or would you make that statement for a dynasty league? If you also included Harvin in the picture, how would you rank the three of them for dynasty leagues, particularly with regard to TDs? Although it is hard to predict how each will acclimate to and perform in the NFL and a pro-style offense, how do you think the three will compare with a few years of experience? Do you have a sense whether any or all of them will really excel at the pro level? Is Nicks that much better than Maclin and Harvin?