Opportunity vs Talent (1 Viewer)

[varmint cong]

I think it makes for an intriguing debate. Talent, obviously, plays a huge role, but lets not overlook what i consider "opportunity"(scheme, surrounding talent, or lack of, time of possesion, offensive ineptness), I'll put the split at about 65/35 talent vs opportunity. I think the "rookie corner " theory supports this (i.e. db revis), db's on bad teams (cleveland db), maybe db opposite shut down corners, ect..what are the forum's thoughts, discuss.

p.s. discussion came about as i'm sitting LB stud Ruud to start upstart rookie LB harris

 

[KellysHeroes]

I think it makes for an intriguing debate. Talent, obviously, plays a huge role, but lets not overlook what i consider "opportunity"(scheme, surrounding talent, or lack of, time of possesion, offensive ineptness), I'll put the split at about 65/35 talent vs opportunity. I think the "rookie corner " theory supports this (i.e. db revis), db's on bad teams (cleveland db), maybe db opposite shut down corners, ect..what are the forum's thoughts, discuss.p.s. discussion came about as i'm sitting LB stud Ruud to start upstart rookie LB harris

The "Talent" (Players like Fletcher, Sims, Willis, Ray Ray, etc) will always make plays no matter the "Situation" (scheme, surrounding talent, or lack of, time of possesion, offensive ineptness)... The "Opportunity Player" are simply just players who are making plays because of the "Situation" around them. This usually only last a year or 2. These Opp players shouldn't be overlooked ofcousre, points are points.... but its smart too move an "Opp" Player for a "Talent" Player. P.S. Don't overlook the Cleveland corners; they have put up solid #s for a couple of yrs now.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I believe they are equally important to consider.

Even the most talented players can struggle in the boxscore due to limited opportunity. Stud SLBs have to overcome a lot to have consistent value. Pro Bowl players like Keith Bulluck and Adrian Wilson have trouble overcoming scheme and a lack of tackle opportunity. The Rookie/Second Corner theory was cited as a situation where a much lesser NFL talent can have important IDP value. There are plenty of other situations like it.

Obviously, when talent and opportunity collide (i.e. Derrick Brooks), you've got the best of both worlds. I'll generally look to roster supreme talent or primo opportunity over a mediocre mix of both. Your current roster situation and direction needs to be considered to correctly decide which way to go.

Need a player that will help you sooner than later? Err on the side of opportunity in most cases. In the middle of a rebuilding effort? Roster the best talent and be patient enough to wait it out (i.e. Ruud, Crowder, Durant, etc.).

 

[Jene Bramel]

Here's a string of posts from our preseason 2006 staff roundtable considering talent vs opportunity.

 

[Pick]

In dynasty, I think talent is the way to go. Opportunity may be the quick fix, but talent lasts longer. But it's not like I know the difference.