rookie WR class (1 Viewer)

[ffguru56]

Out of this rookie class...who do you see putting up Santonio Holmes or Dwayne Bowe numbers from last year? 800-900 yards complimented with 4 or more td's?

My top 3 considerations?...

James Hardy - 6'6'', 218 lbs...quick over the long run (not short spurts) with great hands and the "my ball" mentality

Limas Sweed - at 6'5'' and Roeth's own comment about he wanted a red zone target should be interest enough, but isn't great at running routes or doesn't have all that great speed

Devin Thomas - 6'1'', 215 lbs....quick, elusive, good hands, yards after catch is good

 

[EBF]

Who has a chance to start?

Thomas

Kelly

Avery

Hardy

Bennett

Hawkins

Jackson

Those are probably your top options for 2008.

I don't think there's a Bowe in this group. IMO Thomas and Kelly are the only guys with the potential to surpass 1,000 yards next season. I wouldn't bet on it happening though. I think Bennett and Jackson can finish in the 600-800 yards range. Hardy has an outside chance to have a breakout season, but I'm not 100% sold on his talent yet.

 

[ffguru56]

Who has a chance to start? ThomasKellyAveryHardyBennettHawkinsJacksonThose are probably your top options for 2008. I don't think there's a Bowe in this group. IMO Thomas and Kelly are the only guys with the potential to surpass 1,000 yards next season. I wouldn't bet on it happening though. I think Bennett and Jackson can finish in the 600-800 yards range. Hardy has an outside chance to have a breakout season, but I'm not 100% sold on his talent yet.

Bennett (Tennessee) and Hawkins (Bears) I don't think have a shot considering the team they are on. Jackson could have a good future as there isn't really a clear-cut quality WR on the Eagles.

 

[Jeff Tefertiller]

I think the sleepers are:

Early Doucet with a Boldin or Fitz injury

Kennan Burton esp if Bennett is hurt again

 

[Maroney=Speed]

DeSean getting a lot of love all of a sudden. He and Donnie Avery were under the radar, maybe not too much longer.

 

[EBF]

Who has a chance to start? ThomasKellyAveryHardyBennettHawkinsJacksonThose are probably your top options for 2008. I don't think there's a Bowe in this group. IMO Thomas and Kelly are the only guys with the potential to surpass 1,000 yards next season. I wouldn't bet on it happening though. I think Bennett and Jackson can finish in the 600-800 yards range. Hardy has an outside chance to have a breakout season, but I'm not 100% sold on his talent yet.

Bennett (Tennessee) and Hawkins (Bears) I don't think have a shot considering the team they are on. Jackson could have a good future as there isn't really a clear-cut quality WR on the Eagles.

You're probably right about Tennessee, but people would've said the same thing about Atlanta and Kansas City last year. I won't be drafting any Titans receivers until Young shows something as a passer, but anything is possible. Chicago yielded a useful FF WR in Berrian last season. There's a pretty good chance that either Bennett, Hester, Bradley, or Booker will step up and be a viable WR3 this year. The trick is figuring out who's the cream of that pitiful crop. They all have their positives and negatives.

 

[tombonneau]

I like the Jacksons - Desean & Dexter -- but only because I'm in a league that awards return yards. If not for that, I'd have trouble getting too excited about the 08 prospects of this rookie class.

As usual, I think the redraft value is more to be had in the previous year's class:

Bowe

Calvin

(obviously both going a bit high with 19 & 20 ADP)

But ...

Ginn

The Other Gonzalez

Steve Smith

James Jones

Are all guys I'd much rather take a flier on than one of these rookies. Unless something changes, I just don't think any of them are in a position to put up the numbers.

I'd say my longshot is Caldwell putting up Chris Henry numbers in Cincy. Or maybe Bennett becomes the top target in Chicago? Other than that, don't see a whole lot of opportunity.

 

[Bri]

will franklin because of lack of competition and that you're only asking for roughly 50 yards per game

 

[EBF]

will franklin because of lack of competition and that you're only asking for roughly 50 yards per game

I'll be surprised if he beats out Darling. He's considered pretty raw from the scouting reports I've read.

 

[Bizkiteer]

will franklin because of lack of competition and that you're only asking for roughly 50 yards per game

I'll be surprised if he beats out Darling. He's considered pretty raw from the scouting reports I've read.

If I recall correctly, early reports were stating that they were amazed how polished/fluid he looked out there. THey said he looked like he belonged, I guess opposed to the wide eyed rookie look.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

 

[Rushmore]

Suprised nobody mentioned Andre Caldwell. If he were able to lock up the #3 spot in Cincinnati, he could put up some numbers that might rival some of these other guys as #2's. He has top notch speed, decent size, and will probably be ready sooner than Simpson who might need some more time developing as a project for the time being.

 

[EBF]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

There's a Torry Holt quote about Avery that I've been meaning to post for a while. This was after minicamp:

Asked his early impressions of Avery, Holt said tersely, "Right now, I don't have any impressions of Donnie Avery. ... Hopefully, during training camp he'll show me something."

Typical "tough love" maybe, but I think it's less than 50/50 that Avery beats out Bennett. I don't think he'll start until 2009.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

There's a Torry Holt quote about Avery that I've been meaning to post for a while. This was after minicamp:

Asked his early impressions of Avery, Holt said tersely, "Right now, I don't have any impressions of Donnie Avery. ... Hopefully, during training camp he'll show me something."

Typical "tough love" maybe, but I think it's less than 50/50 that Avery beats out Bennett. I don't think he'll start until 2009.

With the exception of Hardy and maybe Bennett, i dont see any of the other rookie WR's with a better shot at winning the #2 job.

 

[tombonneau]

Suprised nobody mentioned Andre Caldwell. If he were able to lock up the #3 spot in Cincinnati, he could put up some numbers that might rival some of these other guys as #2's. He has top notch speed, decent size, and will probably be ready sooner than Simpson who might need some more time developing as a project for the time being.

I mentioned him above as one of the few guys I could see doing much of anything in 08. Like you said, he's in a rare spot where a rookie could put up FF worthy numbers from the #3 spot. Basically, if he pans out he could produce Henry-like numbers down the stretch.

 

[moderated]

very pathetic WR class.

A few will pan out but none of them are even close to being sure things.

Worst WR class since the Ashley Lelie draft.

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

very pathetic WR class.A few will pan out but none of them are even close to being sure things.Worst WR class since the Ashley Lelie draft.

This class might have lacked that uberprospect like Calvin or Braylon (or Charles Rogers), but its far from pathetic. 2006 looked the same at this point and it has yielded Marshall, Holmes, and Jennings once the dust settled.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

very pathetic WR class.A few will pan out but none of them are even close to being sure things.Worst WR class since the Ashley Lelie draft.

This may be true but I'm not entirely sure why you think this. What this draft had in WR is balance. There were so many guys around the same talent level, teams didn't have to pull the trigger early on WR because teams just figured they could get the next guy after one is draft. This kind of snowballed and the Wr's went late. That, and the Lions didn't pick in the top 10 which is always bad news for receivers since they're the biggest suckers for taking WR's.Anyway, we'll see a few guys emerge out of this crop who are players.

 

[Burning Sensation]

very pathetic WR class.A few will pan out but none of them are even close to being sure things.Worst WR class since the Ashley Lelie draft.

This class might have lacked that uberprospect like Calvin or Braylon (or Charles Rogers), but its far from pathetic. 2006 looked the same at this point and it has yielded Marshall, Holmes, and Jennings once the dust settled.

and Colston

 

[tazinib1]

Devone Bess.

 

[Tanner9919]

Out of this rookie class...who do you see putting up Santonio Holmes or Dwayne Bowe numbers from last year? 800-900 yards complimented with 4 or more td's?My top 3 considerations?...James Hardy - 6'6'', 218 lbs...quick over the long run (not short spurts) with great hands and the "my ball" mentalityLimas Sweed - at 6'5'' and Roeth's own comment about he wanted a red zone target should be interest enough, but isn't great at running routes or doesn't have all that great speedDevin Thomas - 6'1'', 215 lbs....quick, elusive, good hands, yards after catch is good

Thomas has a chance to be a star right away..He could put up numbers similar to those of M. Colston during his rookie season..

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

very pathetic WR class.A few will pan out but none of them are even close to being sure things.Worst WR class since the Ashley Lelie draft.

This class might have lacked that uberprospect like Calvin or Braylon (or Charles Rogers), but its far from pathetic. 2006 looked the same at this point and it has yielded Marshall, Holmes, and Jennings once the dust settled.

and Colston

He's a TE How could I forget the Hofstra flash?

 

[Londo]

I love me some James Hardy. His size is incredible, so you have to think if his hands are halfway decent he will be a great RZ option in the near future.

 

[Burning Sensation]

I love me some James Hardy. His size is incredible, so you have to think if his hands are halfway decent he will be a great RZ option in the near future.

I dont see him putting up great yardage numbers, but i could easily see him catching 7-8 TD's.

 

[Burning Sensation]

If your league includes return yardage, Dexter Jackson and Eddie Royal could both have some value in '08. Not only should they both see time returning punts and kicks, but both have shots at being their teams #3 WR's.

 

[Londo]

I love me some James Hardy. His size is incredible, so you have to think if his hands are halfway decent he will be a great RZ option in the near future.

I dont see him putting up great yardage numbers, but i could easily see him catching 7-8 TD's.

Agreed. might make a decent spot starter next year.

 

[FunkyPlutos]

Devin Thomas - 6'1'', 215 lbs....quick, elusive, good hands, yards after catch is good

I thought Thomas' hands are what kept him from being a top 15 pick?!

 

[King of the Jungle]

Devin Thomas - 6'1'', 215 lbs....quick, elusive, good hands, yards after catch is good

I thought Thomas' hands are what kept him from being a top 15 pick?!

I think the fact that he only produced for one year had folks skeptical. Not sure how good his hands are though.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Out of this rookie class...who do you see putting up Santonio Holmes or Dwayne Bowe numbers from last year? 800-900 yards complimented with 4 or more td's?My top 3 considerations?...James Hardy - 6'6'', 218 lbs...quick over the long run (not short spurts) with great hands and the "my ball" mentalityLimas Sweed - at 6'5'' and Roeth's own comment about he wanted a red zone target should be interest enough, but isn't great at running routes or doesn't have all that great speedDevin Thomas - 6'1'', 215 lbs....quick, elusive, good hands, yards after catch is good

Thomas has a chance to be a star right away..He could put up numbers similar to those of M. Colston during his rookie season..

Even if Thomas is as talented as Colston, no way this happens. Colston was the only receiving threat on a team that had a poor defense and threw the ball 600 times. Not to mention Campbell is no Drew Brees.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

 

[Team Legacy]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

I like Avery, but I think the reason he was drafted so early was that he served the "dual-threat" mode, that the team was lacking on special teams. NFL teams these days know that field position is important and after seeing what Hester can do, they realize these guys are important, ala Desmond Howard, etc. I guess what I'm saying is, don't over-estimate the fantasy value of a Wide receiver due to where he was drafted. Avery brings other things to the table.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

I like Avery, but I think the reason he was drafted so early was that he served the "dual-threat" mode, that the team was lacking on special teams. NFL teams these days know that field position is important and after seeing what Hester can do, they realize these guys are important, ala Desmond Howard, etc. I guess what I'm saying is, don't over-estimate the fantasy value of a Wide receiver due to where he was drafted. Avery brings other things to the table.

No doubt his ability as a returner had something to do with his being drafted ahead of guys like Thomas and Hardy, but i think he is a WR first, and returner 2nd. Either way, even if he was drafted as just a WR, he would have still been drafted far ahead of Burton.

 

[FUBAR]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

I like Avery, but I think the reason he was drafted so early was that he served the "dual-threat" mode, that the team was lacking on special teams. NFL teams these days know that field position is important and after seeing what Hester can do, they realize these guys are important, ala Desmond Howard, etc. I guess what I'm saying is, don't over-estimate the fantasy value of a Wide receiver due to where he was drafted. Avery brings other things to the table.

No doubt his ability as a returner had something to do with his being drafted ahead of guys like Thomas and Hardy, but i think he is a WR first, and returner 2nd. Either way, even if he was drafted as just a WR, he would have still been drafted far ahead of Burton.

You nailed it on the last post. Avery is more certain to be an assett on the offense, but I must say, I don't see him taking over as the #1. Burton could.Still, if the question is about 2008, I don't think Burton will play much of a role.

 

[Sylira21]

Lot of positive comments about Kelly (admittedly a very brief amount of time working with the team) as a good worker and a good fit for Zorn's offense. He might be a surprise if Santana Moss' annual injury comes early in the year.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

I like Avery, but I think the reason he was drafted so early was that he served the "dual-threat" mode, that the team was lacking on special teams. NFL teams these days know that field position is important and after seeing what Hester can do, they realize these guys are important, ala Desmond Howard, etc. I guess what I'm saying is, don't over-estimate the fantasy value of a Wide receiver due to where he was drafted. Avery brings other things to the table.

No doubt his ability as a returner had something to do with his being drafted ahead of guys like Thomas and Hardy, but i think he is a WR first, and returner 2nd. Either way, even if he was drafted as just a WR, he would have still been drafted far ahead of Burton.

You nailed it on the last post. Avery is more certain to be an assett on the offense, but I must say, I don't see him taking over as the #1. Burton could.Still, if the question is about 2008, I don't think Burton will play much of a role.

Avery has Santonio Holmes type upside. Maybe never a true NFL #1WR, but enough big play ability to be a low #1, high #2 FF WR. Also, he went to the best situation of any rookie WR.

 

[Bri]

will franklin because of lack of competition and that you're only asking for roughly 50 yards per game

I'll be surprised if he beats out Darling. He's considered pretty raw from the scouting reports I've read.

If I recall correctly, early reports were stating that they were amazed how polished/fluid he looked out there. THey said he looked like he belonged, I guess opposed to the wide eyed rookie look.

Franklin is kinda grrr to read about. If ya google, you could probably find quotes that prove each of you are correct. It's really super common with rooks though. For example Andre Woodson has looked phenomenal one day then the next day some wonderred if he'd be cut he was awful. At some point they settle down into whatever they'll be. In FF I always wish for things to settle down quickly so I can have a better guess as to how they'll be. Often times it doesn't happen for a WR til much later but, I hope Franklin shows us by the end of TC. As for Darling, I'm not a fan and it might make me not a fan of Will's if he can't beat Darling out. I already think Herm and/or the Chiefs GM should get some flack for not signing someone to play that spot. It's probably not Herm as this isn't a new problem. Kennison was decent and we always hoped Samie Parker would improve significantly. Now we're onto Bowe and hoping someone opposite him pans out. The Chiefs org needs to put a bit more emphasis on landing WR depth.A month or two ago, Kennison was trying to find a team to play for in Tampa but that was the last I heard of it. I haven't even botherred checking. Aside from Joe Horn eons ago(and he wasn't good for KC) I can't recall many WRs that even had decent market value from KC. I know BP's Giants and some of BBs Pats weren't very stacked at WR and still did well so there is a precedent of success despite WR talent but, I just don't like it. It almost seems ignorant

 

[FUBAR]

Avery has Santonio Holmes type upside. Maybe never a true NFL #1WR, but enough big play ability to be a low #1, high #2 FF WR. Also, he went to the best situation of any rookie WR.

I don't see him as as good as Holmes, but I did see a lot more of Holmes in college, so maybe Avery is more of a "hidden" talent (at least from me). As for him landing in the best situation, that is certainly arguable. I don't think it's any better than Simpson/Caldwell, Jackson, Royal, or a couple others long term, but it's favorable.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Avery has Santonio Holmes type upside. Maybe never a true NFL #1WR, but enough big play ability to be a low #1, high #2 FF WR. Also, he went to the best situation of any rookie WR.

I don't see him as as good as Holmes, but I did see a lot more of Holmes in college, so maybe Avery is more of a "hidden" talent (at least from me). As for him landing in the best situation, that is certainly arguable. I don't think it's any better than Simpson/Caldwell, Jackson, Royal, or a couple others long term, but it's favorable.

You can probably argue long term, but the OP was looking for which rookie WR could make the biggest impact this year.Simpson/Caldwell have absolutely no shot at top 2 spot, and will be battling each other for the #3 spot at best. Jackson and Royal are probaby both going to be used more as KR/PR guys, and both have #2 WR's to beat out that are better than Bennett.Avery is a 4.3 forty guy playing on turf in a sub-par division with only Drew Bennett ahead of him for the #2 spot. He may not be the most polished route runner, but he will see planty of single coverage against teams #2 corners. And again, the Rams should be throwing ALOT this year.ETA, i didnt say i thought he was as good as Holmes, just that he is that type of WR. Although, i have similar feelings about Avery as i did about Holmes after he was drafted.

 

[Jason Wood]

It warms my heart to see Donnie Avery mentioned. Here's a kid who was the first receiver drafted, and goes to a team in DESPERATE need of a young playmaker right away. Given the state of the Rams defense, we also know they're going to be throwing the ball aplenty. And the only guy he has to beat is Drew "3 games made my career" Bennett.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

 

[Jason Wood]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

Sure, there were people surprised by the pick. But that's as much a testament to how much the Rams thought of him as anything else. Despite there being a number of WRs on the board who most "pundits" didn't expect would still be available, the Rams took their guy. Fantasy success = Ability + Opportunity. No greater endorsement of Avery's opportunity than the fact STL could've chosen any WR in the rookie class and opted for him.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

Hey, i was shocked as well when they took him over Thomas. However, i dont know that the other 31 teams thought that was a laughable pick. I thought the Packers taking Jennings in round 2 a couple years back was crazy as well, and that seemed to work out ok. I am not saying he will be the best WR to come out of this draft, but i would bet good money that he scores more fantasy points than Burton this year.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

Sure, there were people surprised by the pick. But that's as much a testament to how much the Rams thought of him as anything else. Despite there being a number of WRs on the board who most "pundits" didn't expect would still be available, the Rams took their guy. Fantasy success = Ability + Opportunity. No greater endorsement of Avery's opportunity than the fact STL could've chosen any WR in the rookie class and opted for him.

You mentioned Avery beating out Bennett in previous post, but Avery is much more raw than Burton. Yes, he is great with the ball in his hands, but Avery is more suited for the slot. If Bennett is going to get beaten out...it's by Burton. As also the reason they took him high, someone else pointed out that he was more or less taken for his return ability as his receiving ability. Holt and Bennett are not deep threats, so they added speed for their 3 WR sets. I did not say Avery would be a bum, but pointed that I think Burton will do better this year and for his career over Avery.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

Hey, i was shocked as well when they took him over Thomas. However, i dont know that the other 31 teams thought that was a laughable pick. I thought the Packers taking Jennings in round 2 a couple years back was crazy as well, and that seemed to work out ok. I am not saying he will be the best WR to come out of this draft, but i would bet good money that he scores more fantasy points than Burton this year.

Let me correct one thing, Avery is not laughable as he surely has plenty of talent and a ton to offer many NFL teams. There a lot of teams that wanted him as he was rising on many draft boards. What was laughable was where the Rams took him, to take him as high as they did and as the 1st WR off the board...that is what plenty of them had to laugh at. Hey, others were happy as it led a WR or two dropping. No complaints for me as my 'Skins got Devin Thomas.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Donnie Avery. The Rams were in need of a WR2, and had their choice of any of the 2008 WR's they wanted. Avery goes to a very good situation on a team with a great, but aging #1 WR, a top QB and RB, and no #2 WR to speak of. The defense is bad enough that the Rams should be throwing alot. I know Holt got down on Avery a bit during OTA's, but he may just be doing his job as a mentor for the young receiver. Also, the Rams have a pretty good track record at drafting WR's.

I think they drafted him for his potential upside, but Burton will be the better pro now and when their careers are over.

What do you base this on?

Burton was an excellent player in college. He showed the ability to get deep and run in the open field. He is versitile in that he can leap for balls very well, which helps in the redzone. More importantly, he can take a short route and turn it into a big gain. He's not a super physical type that will bowl someone over, but he is elusive and could take over games. He's basically strong or good in every area as a WR with no glaring weakness. He made Woodson look good on a regular basis and even excelled in the return game for Kentucky. He has an AWESOME junior year and nagging injuries is the only reason why he fell in the NFL draft. Prior to the Senior season, he was ranked in the top 5 of almost every expurt's list of top 5 WR's in college. Again, if he hadn't had the injuries he was one of the best receivers in this class. He very well could be the steal of the NFL draft, compared to where STL got him. I personally think they made up their mistake for drafting Avery so early, by taking Burton.

With that said, i think it is safe to say that Burton was drafted for his potential upside, and Avery is more of the sure thing. Certainly Burton looked good between his many injuries, but their was a reason Avery was the first WR taken in the draft and Burton the 20th.

You mean there is another reason than the fact that it provided a good laugh for the other 31 teams that Avery was the first WR taken? :X Don't kid yourself, just because he was the 1st WR taken...doesn't mean he was the best. Not saying I know more than a professional GM or scout, but there were plenty of teams that were stunned and still in shock that Avery was the first WR taken.

Sure, there were people surprised by the pick. But that's as much a testament to how much the Rams thought of him as anything else. Despite there being a number of WRs on the board who most "pundits" didn't expect would still be available, the Rams took their guy. Fantasy success = Ability + Opportunity. No greater endorsement of Avery's opportunity than the fact STL could've chosen any WR in the rookie class and opted for him.

You mentioned Avery beating out Bennett in previous post, but Avery is much more raw than Burton. Yes, he is great with the ball in his hands, but Avery is more suited for the slot. If Bennett is going to get beaten out...it's by Burton. As also the reason they took him high, someone else pointed out that he was more or less taken for his return ability as his receiving ability. Holt and Bennett are not deep threats, so they added speed for their 3 WR sets. I did not say Avery would be a bum, but pointed that I think Burton will do better this year and for his career over Avery.

Yeah, Avery probably doesnt fit the size/speed the Rams look for in a #2 WR.Isaac Bruce 6'0" 188, 4.31 forty

Donnie Avery 5'11" 190, 4.32 forty

Just saying.

 

[EBF]

Avery is a dynamite athlete, but he plays small and I don't know if he has the X-factor to be great in the NFL. Lately I've been thinking that Eddie Royal is a better version of the same type of player. It will definitely be interesting to see how this WR class shakes out. It's a deck full of wild cards.

 

[Colin Dowling]

Avery or Sweed. The former could grab a lot of balls and the latter score a good number of TDs.

Also, I like Jordy Nelson and Mario Manningham.