This is aimed more at that group of fantasy footballers who straddle the fence separating dynasty and redraft leagues. Those of us in leagues that keep somewhere between 4-8 players have a different set of challenges. Unlike a dynasty league, we can't afford to waste a roster spot waiting on a guy to develop. Any player that is kept in a moderate keeper league needs to help the team that is keeping him. A team that is not helped is hard-pressed to compete with another fantasy team that maximizes the value of the kept players. However, once you get past the top 40 or so players being kept, the disparity between teams starts to become more pronounced. People who can hoard players in the top 50 come out ahead. Unlike in dynasty, it is unlikely that these players are kept before they break into the top 50 overall.
For illustration, picture Roddy White. I am sure that Roddy White helped some teams last year, I know that he helped mine. In a dynasty a person may have been able to stash a number one pick on their bench and hope that he panned out. That cannot be done in a moderate keeper league because Roddy White eats up one valuable keeper spot. A team that stuck by Roddy would have had to endure multiple 500 receiving yard years, or start someone else that is drafted from the extremely depleted player pool. However the team that drafted White last year now has a fairly attractive keeper.
I used White because he was a WR who had the "Break-out Third Year." I have no idea if I believe in this theory or not, but I am not sure that a belief in the theory is needed to identify WR(s) from the 2006 draft class that are not being kept (or have little value in dynasty and would be easy to obtain.) In a redraft league, these would be sleepers.
It also was fun just to review the draft class and discover that the 2006 WR's basically break down into two groups: The Big Four (Holmes, Jennings, Marshall and Colston) and everyone else. Can another guy emerge? I don't know, but I'm trying to figure it out.
(25) Santonio Holmes: Height: 5-11 Weight: 189
2006: 49/824/2 4 Games Started
2007: 52/942/8 14 Games Started
Holmes has shown us two major things in his first two years: he can score from almost everywhere on the field and he has a propensity for picking up nagging injuries. The hamstring injury that caused him not to play in Seattle, but did not cause him to be listed as inactive, hurt a few owners in week 5. Holmes also was listed on the injury report with a quad sprain, but did play before the suffered the dreaded high ankle sprain that caused him to miss a couple games toward the end of the season.
Injuries are tough to predict and I'm loathe to drop Holmes simply because he has been a little banged up. What I am concerned with is his low reception total. While he almost put up 1000 yards for the year, he did it on 55 catches. The 18 YPC average that he put up in 2007 is one that I don't think he can maintain. So, there are two options...either his reception total can increase or his yards can drop. I see both of these happening. Holmes reminds me (unscientifically of course) of Javon Walker in Green Bay, circa 2004. I see Holmes settling down to a YPC close to 15.5. However, his receptions should increase as he becomes more acclimated to the offense.
For 2008 I see 72/1116/9
(36) Chad Jackson: Height 6-1 Weight: 215
2006: 13/152/3 1 Game Started
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
After a pedestrian rookie season, Chad Jackson must have been eager to show why the Patriots spent a second round pick on him to give Tom Brady the WR he deserved......whoops. Jackson suffered an ACL tear in the 2006 AFC Championship game, then watched as the Patriots brought in every WR under the sun. Even when Jackson most likely was recovered, he remained on the PUP list until Week 10, then was declared inactive for 5 of the remaining games. In the games he managed to play in, Jackson did not record an offensive stat. Jackson's lack of contribution can be directly attributed to the presence of Moss, Welker, Stallworth, Gaffney, Watson and Faulk. The Patriots did not need another set of hands on the field.
Jackson's value in 2008 hinges on who comes back. If the Patriots do not resign Moss or Stallworth, Jackson may find himself on the opening day starting roster. I tend to think that Moss is resigned and Stallworth and Gaffney are let go. This would install Jackson as the probable third WR. Jackson would have 18 months of recovery from his ACL and should be back to full speed. Although no one is expecting the aerial pyroclasm that the Patriot passing game was this season to continue unabated, Brady should still be able to hang a few out to Chad. I think that Jackson has one of the best upsides of the 2006 class, but I am not sure this will be the year he shows it. 2009 will probably be when I target him, though if I can get him cheap this year I will.
For 2008 I see 50/735/6 (basically Stallworth type numbers) with high upside.
(44) Sinorice Moss: Height 5-8 Weight: 185
2006: 5/25/0 0 Games Started
2007: 21/225/0 2 Games Started
What 2007 was to Chad Jackson, 2006 was to Sinorice Moss. Moss was banged up, dinged and doubtful for seemingly all of his rookie season. 2007 did not treat the Giant wideout much better. This is a random sampling of Sportsline proclamations about Santana's younger brother: "WR Mss does without statistics, Sinorice Moss does nothing, Moss ends two game catch drought, No stats for Sinorice Moss..." While Moss is built in the mold of his Redskin namesake, he does not play like him. With a YPC under 11, Moss does not seem to have the speed to make himself a worthwhile part of the Giant game and at 5' 8" Moss does not have the size to be a true possession receiver.
I don't like to project too much into a guy's situation, because I think that talent will find a way to get onto the field, but the Giant receiving corps is also a strike against an increase in Moss's productivity. Burress (when healthy) is lights out, Toomer still is productive and "the other" Steve Smith appears to be carving a niche out for himself. When Shockey is healthy (assuming he is back with the team) Moss is the fifth option when he can even see the field. I do not think that Moss has much of a future in the NFL and I think he will have almost no value next year.
For 2008 it's more of the same for the Giants 4th receiver: 25/270/1
(52) Greg Jennings: Height: 5-11 Weight: 197
2006: 45/632/4 11 Games Started
2007: 53/920/12 13 Games Started
See: Holmes, Santonio. Very similar body types, very similar builds, very similar situations. Jennings faces the great unknown of the retirement saga that is Brett Favre, but Rodgers has been learning for the past three years and will ensure there is at least some talent at the QB position when Favre decides to finally hang up the cleats. Greg also seems to pick up bumps and bruises fairly easily. After missing the first two games with a hamstring pull, Jennings saw the injury report for ankle, groin and shoulder ailments. However, my biggest concern again is an astronomically high YPC statistic and an abnormally high REC/TD ratio. Even if Jennings is this good now, once he loses half a step he won't be (if this half step is lost in five years I won't care and this really isn't a reason I would pass on him.)
A phrase that is used here is "regression to the mean" and that is what I think will happen with Jennings. I do see his reception total increasing, but I think his YPC and TD totals will fall slightly more in line with standard values. I also think that the presence of Driver for at least one more year will keep Jennings from breaking 75 receptions or so. Furthermore, Jennings has a propensity for home-run balls. He is very good at what he does, but I cannot see him ever becoming a 90 reception type of player. Of the big four I tend to believe he holds the least value.
For 2008: 65/975/8
(57) Devin Hester KR/WR: Height: 5-11 Weight: 186
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
2007: 20/299/2 0 Games Started
It's tempting, isn't it? You see what a guy like Hester can do in the kicking game, how he can make guys miss and then kick into a gear no one else has, and then you hear that he's going to be more involved in the passing game, and it's tough not to imagine what could be. Visions of an NFC North Steve Smith dance in my head. Then Hester goes up and can't manage a 15YPC average. Maybe the Bears aren't using him very effectively: Maybe the skills that make him so dangerous in the open field don't translate to the passing game: Most likely it is a combination of the two. What is apparent is that Hester has talent and I think that this talent will become displayed in the passing game more next year. (For next year this holds doubly true if Berrian walks.)
The returns do bring Hester's value down as the coaching staff does not want to overburden a guy who weighs less than 190 pounds, but Hester proved in 2007 that he can add value to the Bears passing game. This role should only increase. The Bears have been burdened by bad quarterbacking and sunk by subpar signal calling. The running game was atrocious this year. On an average team, I think that Hester (probably the quickest guy on the list) would have a YPC of 16 or so...there is no reason why he can't be slightly better than where Holmes and Jennings end up. His role should increase and Hester is another player that could have a break-out year.
For 2008: 50/800/8
(78) Travis Wilson: Height: 6-1 Weight: 215
2006: 2/32/0 1 Game Started
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (I believe he managed to be declared inactive for every Browns game)
It could be worse I suppose, he could be Travis Wilson (KC RB). It's tough to find anything good or bad to say here (there are quite a few guys here who meet this description.) Right now, I can't imagine Wilson making a roster. While he did manage to make the team, he did not record a stat for the entire year. This third round pick will be on a practice squad next year. The only thing working against this is that he is signed to a four year deal, but I have to think the cap hit will be minimal now.
For 2008: 0/0/0
(84)Brandon Williams: Height: 5-11 Weight: 183
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Active for 13 games)
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Active for 10 games)
Another third round bust. I'd be curious to see if someone can prove me wrong, but I'd be willing to be that no one who went 0/0/0 in their first two years in the league ever became a viable fantasy starter. Drafted by the Niners, Williams was cut at the end of September in 2007 (for the illustrious Michael Lewis)and signed with the Rams. He saw as much action in St. Louis as he did in the Bay City...de nada. Another guy that offers absolutely no value, Williams is at best a practice squad player this year.
For 2008: 0/0/0 (Did the Rams really need to bring him in to gain info on the Niners...the Niners???)
(82) Derek Hagan: Height: 6-2 Weight: 203
2006: 21/221/1 0 Games Started
2007: 29/373/2 1 Game Started
Talk about a glorious opportunity. After a mediocre-at-best rookie year, this former Sun Devil first saw slot receiver Wes Welker leave via trade, opening up the slot role for Hagan. Even with the drafting of Ted Ginn, it could be argued that Ginn would only handle returner duties and Hagan still could have a good opportunity on the offensive side of the ball. Then the Phins shipped Chris Chambers out of town and all Hagan had to do was beat out Marty Booker to become the number one receiver on his team. He was poised for success and...promptly blew it. As the point man in the imposing trio of Hagan, Booker and Ginn, Derek could not break 400 receiving yards.
There are mitigating circumstances. The Dolphins sucked. The quarterbacking sucked. Once Ronnie Brown went down, the running game was none to good (though Chapman had a pretty solid year, all things considered). Could the piss-poor play of the team have dragged down a diamond in the rough? I don't think so. Hagan did not positively impact the team. He finished with fewer receiving yards than Ted Ginn. At best Hagan will be the third WR on a poor team. At worst he won't have a team.
For 2008: 14/188/1
(90) Maurice Stovall: Height: 6-4 Weight: 220
2006: 7/102/0 0 Games Started
2007: 10/86/1 1 Game Started (IR with broken arm last week of regular season)
You can't teach height. The basketball saying also holds true in football. Stovall is a very important member of the Bucs special team unit. However, in the middle part of the 2007 season he got a chance to make an impact on the offensive side of the ball as well. Then, he broke his arm. Kinda sucks. However, he should be back for the start of the season and a broken arm won't impact his mobility like a knee would. The other problem is that Stovall is buried on the TB depth chart. His most productive game came when Clayton was out. However, the Bucs trotted out Ol' Man Galloway and Ike Hilliard last year. Neither of these guys are Cal Ripken Jr. and neither of them are in their twenties. Clayton had one great year, three years ago and has been amazingly bad ever since.
If a position opens up in the Bucs receiving corps, the competition will probably be between Clayton and Stovall for that opportunity. Clayton is reported to be in Gruden's doghouse repeatedly, while Gruden praises Stovall's energy effort and contributions. There is upside here. I can't justify taking Maurice in most formats, but in a deep dynasty, he'd be a guy I'd have stashed somewhere (IR if possible)
For 2008: 32/385/4
(95) Willie Reid: Height: 5-10 Weight: 186
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (1 game active)
2007: 4/54/0 0 Games Started (6 games active)
Willie Reid is the reason why Allen Rossum is a Steeler. Being awful on fielding punts is a quick way to get a coaching staff mad at you. Reid is one of the fastest Steelers, but Mike Tomlin seems to have formed an unfavorable opinion of Reid after a preseason highlighted by Reid diving after muffed punts. Coming off a 2006 foot injury that placed him on IR, Reid could ill afford to have this impression on the new coaching staff.
While he showed improvement from 2006 to 2007 (it would have been hard not to), there has not been enough to make me feel comfortable about recommending him in any format. If Reid can prove himself as a returner heading into next year he will hold a little more value because he will probably win the fourth wideout spot by default, but if he doesn't, he might not be long for the league.
For 2008: 6/88/0
(100) Michael Robinson QB/WR: Height 6-1 Weight 228
Drafted as a QB/WR, the 49ers turned Robinson into a running back. As of now, Robinson backs up Frank Gore and is excluded from the 2006 draft class survey.
For 2008: Handcuff to Gore, probably not much more than that.
(104) Cory Rodgers: Height: 6-0 Weight: 186
2006: Cut by the Green Bay Packers, signed by the 49ers, then cut from the San Francisco practice squad.
2007: 27/351/3 (For the CFL's British Columbia Lions)
For 2008: Those aren't great stats for the pass-happy CFL; doubt we will see him back in the big leagues
(109) Jason Avant: Height: 6-0 Weight: 212
2006: 7/68/1 3 Games Started
2007: 23/267/2 5 Games Started
Coming out of Michigan, Avant was labeled a possession receiver who lacked the speed to get down the field. After two years in the league, the lack of speed looks to be an accurate prediction...the possession receiver, not so much. The low YPC stat is the kiss of death to Avant ever having a dynamic year. With an 11 YPC, he would need 91 catches just to break 1000 yards for the season. There hasn't been an Eagle WR to have more than 85catches in more than 10 years. I don't think that Jason Avant will be the one to break this trend.
Avant could become a contributor for Philly. I just don't think that he will ever have the type of season that will make someone want to roster him. There are better opportunities out there than a player whose ceiling is probably 60/700/5.
For 2008: 35/418/3
(111) Demetrius Williams: Height: 6-2 Weight: 197
2006: 22/396/2 1 Game Started
2007: 20/290/0 4 Games Started (Only nine games played because of an ankle injury)
If I had to put money on one of the players outside the big four to break 1000 yards this season my bet would probably go to Demetrius Williams. "Spiderman" has good height, is a very good leaper and was a heck of a player at Oregon. If he could add ten more pounds of muscle, my man crush would only get bigger. Originally, Williams was supposed to be a second round pick, but he fell to the fourth round on a slower forty time and a lot of questioning of his route running. His on-field speed (just from first hand viewing) doesn't seem to be a problem and his route running is correctable. He appeared to have made strides in that direction until getting a bad ankle injury. If he can come back healthy, he has great potential and is a good sleeper in my mind.
For this year, the main issue is quarterbacking and the presence of Derrick Mason. The QBing for the Ravens was atrocious at times this year. If McNair can find lightning in a bottle again, their passing game should hopefully bounce back. When the Ravens put Mason and Clayton out at the same time, The Ravens have two possession receivers on the field. Also, Clayton and Mason are short. Williams gives the Ravens a bigger threat and a threat to stretch the field. If he is healthy and he refines his route running, he could be a very pleasant surprise.
For 2008: 68/1025/9 (Gotta have one thing to have bumped when he goes 22/330/0 next year)
(115) Will Blackmon: Height: 6-0 Weight: 202
A very poor man's Deion, Blackmon played WR for his final year of college and then reverted back to his former position...defensive back. I do not know of any plans currently in place to move him back to the offensive side of the ball.
For 2008: 1 int and some tackles.
(119) Brandon Marshall: Height: 6-4 Weight: 230
2006: 20/309/2 1 Game Started
2007: 102/1325/7 16 Games Started
It is interesting. Some people point to the presence of Hines Ward and Donald Driver as the reason that Holmes and Jennings have not had to face double-teams and #1 cornerbacks. The argument then goes that because these two faced weaker defenses they had more success than if they were true #1 WR's. There is another argument that says that Brandon Marshall was only good because Walker was hurt. This argument proceeds to claim that when Walker comes back, Marshall will be no better than a 1000/6 WR. I believe these two arguments are mutually exclusive and that neither of them hold much water. Good WR's manage to produce regardless of the circumstances they have in regards to other WR's (see Wayne, Reggie...with and without Harrison; See TJ Houshmanzada and Chad Johnson co-existence). I can see the number of targets for Marshall going down slightly, but I think that will be offset both in catch percentage (because there will be fewer defenders to blanket him if a healthy Walker is on the other side of the field) and YPC (if the defenses are stretched by the presence of two good WR's on the same team.
Likewise, if Walker leaves, Marshall has shown that he can produce on his size, speed and skills. It is easy to grow infatuated with a player who had the type of year that Marshall had. It's not his production that makes an owner nervous. He has suffered from injuries, but did not miss time with them this year. Even worse, he is the type of player that gives the NFL a black eye. According to Wikipedia, he has been arrested for domestic violence, resisted arrest, got popped for a DWI and is supposed to be the reason that Darrent Williams was shot. He's a heck of a player, but Baby TO has some growing up to do. Could another one of these incidents lead to sanctions by the NFL? That is now a possibility to think about.
For 2008: 90/1280/10
(125) Skyler Green: Height: 5-9 Weight: 190
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
2007: 4/40/0 0 Games Started
Three teams in two years...generally not a player I am buying. Skyler was drafted by the Cowboys, cut, signed to the practice squad, brought up, cut, signed with the Bengals, made the roster, caught for passes, was sent to the practice squad, was signed by the Saints. In my best Kreskin impression, I see two more practice squads, three more cuts and two more catches in Skyler's NFL career.
For 2008: 1/19/0
(130) Domenik Hixon: Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (0 Games Active)
2007: 1/5/0 0 Games Started (Also rushed for negative eight yards, making him one of the rare players that had negative yardage for an active career.)
From the Broncos to the Super Bowl. The man who was on the other end of the Kevin Everett collision was cut by the Broncos and now may have the kick returner duties for the G-Men in the Super Bowl. He has a great story to tell his kids, perseverance, determination and all that jazz. However, he doesn't have much WR talent. He isn't the fastest guy on the field, with a marginal 4.45 at the combine. However, he was originally projected not to be drafted and he became a fourth round pick, so people have underestimated (or overestimated if you are arguing against the Broncos) during his career.
Still, I don't see him becoming a fantasy player of value.
For 2008: 0/0/0 Practice squad somewhere
(144) Marques Hagans: Height: 5-10 Weight: 205
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Practice squad)
2007: 8/101/0 0 Games Started (4 Games Played)
It's always intriguing to have Rams players kicking around on your roster, but I don't see much of an upside here. Hagans is smaller at 5-10, ran a 4.8 40 and is fairly heavy for his size. The coolest thing about him is that he played QB in college (before giving way to Matt Schaub) and sometimes is the emergency third string QB for the Rams. If Fitzpatrick can get in for a couple games, maybe Hagans can too. The Rams seem to like what he offers and he will probably spend 2008 like he did 2007; bouncing between the practice squad and the team if injuries occur.
2008: 3/44/0
(147) Jeremy Bloom KR/WR: Height: 5-9 Weight: 180 # of ninth place Olympic finishes: 1 Number of Real World members slept with: 1+
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Played (Hamstring Injury)
2007: Out of football before signing with the Steelers practice squad on 1/01/2008
How bad must Willie Reid be if they are bringing in this bum to replace him for a playoff game. If Rossum had missed the Jax game, Bloom would have gotten a shot at kick returning. Oh wait, Rossum did miss the game and Tomlin elected to go with Najeh over Bloom and Reid. You'll always have Salt Lake City Jeremy.
For 2008: AFL...maybe AFL2
(171) Mike Hass: Height: 6-1 Weight: 206
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Played
2007 0/0/0 1 Game played (Declared inactive by Bears other times)
Hey, he got in a game, keep working at it and by 2010 you'll have your first catch and maybe a TD in 2015. It's a shame, he sounds like a great, hard-working kid. He tore up the Pac-10, but turned in a 4.61 on the 40, which caused him to fall all the way to the sixth round. Hass has very good hands, but as the Bears sixth receiver I don't think he is going to be able to showcase them. Best case scenario would be for Muhammed to retire and for Berrian to leave, but I'm not sure this would be enough for Hass to get more than a token opportunity.
For 2008: Some special team work and 2/22/0
(172) Jonathan Orr: Height: 6-1 Weight: 193
2006: 0/0/0 Titans Practice Squad
2007: 0/0/0 Raiders Practice Squad
Orr was injured while on the Raiders practice squad and missed the entire year. Without that help, he may not even make another practice squad. He is a sloppy route runner and has poor hands. Look elsewhere for your sleeper pick.
For 2008: Insurance sales
(175) Delanie Walker: Height: 6-1 Weight 244
2006: 2/30/0 1 Game Started
2007: 21/174/1 10 Games Started
The good news for Delanie is that he is still in the league. That's a pretty good accomplishment for a late round draft pick out of Central Missouri State. The bad news is that he has been moved to TE. The TE position for San Fran was supposed to be filled by Vernon Davis. When Davis went down with an injury, Walker stepped into the TE role. Walker performed fairly well in the new position, scoring his first NFL touchdown. With the success of Robinson and Walker, it's a shame that the 49ers can't find a WR to move to QB as well.
For 2008: Eating a lot to solidify the back up TE job. With a healthy Davis, Walker would be lucky to match last year's numbers. 11/100/1
(184) Adam Jennings: Height: 5-9 Weight: 176
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Did have a negative four yard rush, placing him in the company of Mr. Hixon)
2007: 6/62/1 1 Game Started
All-star kick returner at Fresno and reprises this role with the Falcons. Has found a niche there, but is nothing special. He also plays special teams. With a 4.5 40, he is not a speed demon. Also, the Falcons have a lot of young picks at the WR position. A short, slow WR is not something to get overly excited about.
For 2008: Special teams
(190) Jeff Webb: Height: 6-2 Weight: 211
2006: 3/23/0 0 Games Started
2007: 28/315/1 2 Games Started
A potential sleeper that has Herm Edwards excited. Edwards claimed that Webb was perfectly suited for an X receiver. Webb is a fairly strong fairly big WR who was inserted into the starting lineup for the last two games of the regular season. Webb responded with seven catches and his lone TD of the year. KC also uses Webb as a kick returner, a role that Webb is adequate in. For this year, what may be important is that Webb has the opportunity. Keeping him from starting are Kennison and Parker. Samie Parker has never seemed to put it together and Kennison became an "afterthought" to the Chiefs offense according to Sportsline.
Webb has potential, or at least as much potential as the #2 WR in a Herminater offense can have. Webb has the tools to make the most of his opportunity. The main question is whether or not he will receive such a chance.
For 2008: 48/610/6
(209) Ethan Kilmer: Height: 6-0 Weight 204 # of days he has in Wyalusing: 1
Those crafty Bengals made Ethan a safety, so he is of limited value to us. Worse, he ended up on IR in 2007 with a busted knee. However, he has a great story, walking onto the Nittany Lions and prominently figuring in their 2006 Orange Bowl win, still one of the best games I've seen.
For 2008: Defense
(218) Todd Watkins: Height: 6-2 Weight: 191
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Active
2007: 0/0/0 Falcons Practice Squad
If you are in a deep league, this guy could be worth a shot based on tools alone. At 6-2 he has the height to be effective. He also runs a 4.28, giving him a very intriguing mix of size and speed. The downside you ask? The guy couldn't catch the clap in a Russian whorehouse. Unless he manages to get the Robot Devil's hands, he probably won't make much of a difference...but if he ever did, a 6-2 burner could be exciting.
For 2008: Practice squad (If he could catch, he might make the Falcons as a returner)
(231) Bennie Brazell: Height: 6-0 Weight: 182
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Active
2007: 0/0/0 Bengals Practice Squad
Bennie was IR'd in 06 and did not make the roster in 07. As a former Olympic finalist in the 400 hurdles he might have better luck getting ready for Beijing.
For 2008: Practice squad or Olympics.
(233) Devin Aromashodu: Height: 6-2 Weight: 200
2006: Colts Practice Squad
2007: 8/109/0 1 Game Started (7 Games Active)
Devin went from the Dolphins to the Colts to the Texans to the Colts, before we all got to hear his name when the Colts WR's started dropping like flies. The intriguing question is, did he do enough to stick with the team, especially if Marvin Harrison packs it in? My answer to that is no. He doesn't return kicks and he doesn't play special teams. Without doing those little things, I doubt that Aromashodu will be able to make the roster as a fifth WR. I know the temptation to hop on a guy playing for the Colts, but this is the wrong guy to pin your hopes on.
For 2008: Back to the practice squad
(249) Ben Obomanu: Height: 6-0 Weight: 206
2006: 0/0/0 Practice squad
2007: 16/243/1 0 Games Started (15 Games Played)
After paying his dues in 2006, Obomanu took full advantage of the opportunities that injuries created in Seattle's WR corp. Ben also stepped into special teams and returned kicks. While Obomanu did not have any monster games in 2007 he showed an ability to catch the ball (always impressive given Seattle's recent problems in that arena). More important, he was on the team for the entire year and he was active. When he had the chance he made the most of it. With Branch out with a ligament tear, Obomanu may go into the season as the third receiver after Hackett and Engram. On a team as pass-happy as Seattle, he could provide pleasant returns for the patient investor.
For 2008: 35/510/3
(251) David Anderson: Height: 5-10 Weight: 197
2006: 1/27/0 0 Games Started
2007: 12/131/1 0 Games Started
Don't be fooled by the fact he put up stats. These came in the weeks 4-8 of the season, when Andre Johnson was injured. Once Jacoby Jones got his feet wet, Anderson was relegated to special teams only, then deactivated entirely. In 2006, the Texans attempted to use Anderson as a kick returner/special team guy and gave up on the idea. I'd be surprised if he stuck around for much longer.
For 2008: Practice squad
(252) Marques Colston TE: Height: 6-4 Weight: 231
2006: 70/1038/8 12 Games Started
2007: 98/1202/11 14 Games Started
Drafted as a TE, the cause of numerous complaints to Yahoo after he broke onto the scene, and one of the best WR's in the game, Colston appears to be almost everything a WR should be. The only knock on him would be his speed, but with his sixe and strength, running a 4.55 40 isn't that much of a hindrance. After the slow start by the Saints, Colston came on like gangbusters and closed out the 2007 season on fire. Amazingly, I think that this seventh round, compensatory pick has to be ranked as the best WR from the class. While everyone wonders if Jennings, Marshall or Holmes can do it two years in a row, Colston already has.
And he shows no signs of slowing down. Though the Saints had a down year, the offense pulled out of its four game skid and finished fourth in the NFL in yards per game. It is rare for WR's to have two great years and then flame out, but examples of WR's who had one great year and then crashed and burned are much more prevalent (the Clayton brothers anyone?) Colston has done it twice and it seems to be a safe bet to pencil him into the top 10 WR's of 2008 right now.
For 2008: 90/1300/11
(255) Kevin McMahan: Height: 6-2 Weight: 196
2006: Failed to make Raiders roster
2007: Failed to make Giants roster
Just as Kevin McMahan was Mr. Irrelevant for the 2006 draft, so is he here. McMahan has failed to make practice rosters and has failed to survive longer than Jeff George during the 2006 paring of NFL rosters. Here is to another shot; Don't give up the dream.
For 2008: Working at Nick Tahou's
For those who don't want to read...the 2006 WR's in 2008:
(252) Marques Colston: 90/1300/11
(119) Brandon Marshall: 90/1280/10
(25) Santonio Holmes: 72/1116/9
(111) Demetrius Williams: 68/1025/9
(52) Greg Jennings: 65/975/8
(57) Devin Hester KR/WR: 50/800/8
(36) Chad Jackson: 50/735/6
(190) Jeff Webb: 48/610/6
(249) Ben Obomanu: 35/510/3
(90) Maurice Stovall: Height: 32/385/4
(109) Jason Avant: 35/418/3
(44) Sinorice Moss: 25/270/1
(82) Derek Hagan: 14/188/1
(175) Delanie Walker: Eating a lot, 11/100/1
(95) Willie Reid: Height: 6/88/0
(144) Marques Hagans: 3/44/0
(171) Mike Hass: Some special team work and 2/22/0
(125) Skyler Green: 1/19/0
(100) Michael Robinson QB/WR: Handcuff to Gore, probably not much more than that
(184) Adam Jennings: Special Teams
(115) Will Blackmon: 1 int and some tackles.
(209) Ethan Kilmer: Defense
(84)Brandon Williams: 0/0/0
(78) Travis Wilson: 0/0/0
(130) Domenik Hixon: 0/0/0 Practice squad somewhere
(218) Todd Watkins: Practice squad
(231) Bennie Brazell: Practice squad or Olympics
(233) Devin Aromashodu: Back to the practice squad
(251) David Anderson: Practice squad
(104) Cory Rodgers: doubt we will see him back in the big leagues
(147) Jeremy Bloom KR/WR: AFL...maybe AFL2
(172) Jonathan Orr: Insurance sales
(255) Kevin McMahan Working at Nick Tahou’s
Edit: Fix a their/there and I had Hixon on the wrong team.
For illustration, picture Roddy White. I am sure that Roddy White helped some teams last year, I know that he helped mine. In a dynasty a person may have been able to stash a number one pick on their bench and hope that he panned out. That cannot be done in a moderate keeper league because Roddy White eats up one valuable keeper spot. A team that stuck by Roddy would have had to endure multiple 500 receiving yard years, or start someone else that is drafted from the extremely depleted player pool. However the team that drafted White last year now has a fairly attractive keeper.
I used White because he was a WR who had the "Break-out Third Year." I have no idea if I believe in this theory or not, but I am not sure that a belief in the theory is needed to identify WR(s) from the 2006 draft class that are not being kept (or have little value in dynasty and would be easy to obtain.) In a redraft league, these would be sleepers.
It also was fun just to review the draft class and discover that the 2006 WR's basically break down into two groups: The Big Four (Holmes, Jennings, Marshall and Colston) and everyone else. Can another guy emerge? I don't know, but I'm trying to figure it out.
(25) Santonio Holmes: Height: 5-11 Weight: 189
2006: 49/824/2 4 Games Started
2007: 52/942/8 14 Games Started
Holmes has shown us two major things in his first two years: he can score from almost everywhere on the field and he has a propensity for picking up nagging injuries. The hamstring injury that caused him not to play in Seattle, but did not cause him to be listed as inactive, hurt a few owners in week 5. Holmes also was listed on the injury report with a quad sprain, but did play before the suffered the dreaded high ankle sprain that caused him to miss a couple games toward the end of the season.
Injuries are tough to predict and I'm loathe to drop Holmes simply because he has been a little banged up. What I am concerned with is his low reception total. While he almost put up 1000 yards for the year, he did it on 55 catches. The 18 YPC average that he put up in 2007 is one that I don't think he can maintain. So, there are two options...either his reception total can increase or his yards can drop. I see both of these happening. Holmes reminds me (unscientifically of course) of Javon Walker in Green Bay, circa 2004. I see Holmes settling down to a YPC close to 15.5. However, his receptions should increase as he becomes more acclimated to the offense.
For 2008 I see 72/1116/9
(36) Chad Jackson: Height 6-1 Weight: 215
2006: 13/152/3 1 Game Started
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
After a pedestrian rookie season, Chad Jackson must have been eager to show why the Patriots spent a second round pick on him to give Tom Brady the WR he deserved......whoops. Jackson suffered an ACL tear in the 2006 AFC Championship game, then watched as the Patriots brought in every WR under the sun. Even when Jackson most likely was recovered, he remained on the PUP list until Week 10, then was declared inactive for 5 of the remaining games. In the games he managed to play in, Jackson did not record an offensive stat. Jackson's lack of contribution can be directly attributed to the presence of Moss, Welker, Stallworth, Gaffney, Watson and Faulk. The Patriots did not need another set of hands on the field.
Jackson's value in 2008 hinges on who comes back. If the Patriots do not resign Moss or Stallworth, Jackson may find himself on the opening day starting roster. I tend to think that Moss is resigned and Stallworth and Gaffney are let go. This would install Jackson as the probable third WR. Jackson would have 18 months of recovery from his ACL and should be back to full speed. Although no one is expecting the aerial pyroclasm that the Patriot passing game was this season to continue unabated, Brady should still be able to hang a few out to Chad. I think that Jackson has one of the best upsides of the 2006 class, but I am not sure this will be the year he shows it. 2009 will probably be when I target him, though if I can get him cheap this year I will.
For 2008 I see 50/735/6 (basically Stallworth type numbers) with high upside.
(44) Sinorice Moss: Height 5-8 Weight: 185
2006: 5/25/0 0 Games Started
2007: 21/225/0 2 Games Started
What 2007 was to Chad Jackson, 2006 was to Sinorice Moss. Moss was banged up, dinged and doubtful for seemingly all of his rookie season. 2007 did not treat the Giant wideout much better. This is a random sampling of Sportsline proclamations about Santana's younger brother: "WR Mss does without statistics, Sinorice Moss does nothing, Moss ends two game catch drought, No stats for Sinorice Moss..." While Moss is built in the mold of his Redskin namesake, he does not play like him. With a YPC under 11, Moss does not seem to have the speed to make himself a worthwhile part of the Giant game and at 5' 8" Moss does not have the size to be a true possession receiver.
I don't like to project too much into a guy's situation, because I think that talent will find a way to get onto the field, but the Giant receiving corps is also a strike against an increase in Moss's productivity. Burress (when healthy) is lights out, Toomer still is productive and "the other" Steve Smith appears to be carving a niche out for himself. When Shockey is healthy (assuming he is back with the team) Moss is the fifth option when he can even see the field. I do not think that Moss has much of a future in the NFL and I think he will have almost no value next year.
For 2008 it's more of the same for the Giants 4th receiver: 25/270/1
(52) Greg Jennings: Height: 5-11 Weight: 197
2006: 45/632/4 11 Games Started
2007: 53/920/12 13 Games Started
See: Holmes, Santonio. Very similar body types, very similar builds, very similar situations. Jennings faces the great unknown of the retirement saga that is Brett Favre, but Rodgers has been learning for the past three years and will ensure there is at least some talent at the QB position when Favre decides to finally hang up the cleats. Greg also seems to pick up bumps and bruises fairly easily. After missing the first two games with a hamstring pull, Jennings saw the injury report for ankle, groin and shoulder ailments. However, my biggest concern again is an astronomically high YPC statistic and an abnormally high REC/TD ratio. Even if Jennings is this good now, once he loses half a step he won't be (if this half step is lost in five years I won't care and this really isn't a reason I would pass on him.)
A phrase that is used here is "regression to the mean" and that is what I think will happen with Jennings. I do see his reception total increasing, but I think his YPC and TD totals will fall slightly more in line with standard values. I also think that the presence of Driver for at least one more year will keep Jennings from breaking 75 receptions or so. Furthermore, Jennings has a propensity for home-run balls. He is very good at what he does, but I cannot see him ever becoming a 90 reception type of player. Of the big four I tend to believe he holds the least value.
For 2008: 65/975/8
(57) Devin Hester KR/WR: Height: 5-11 Weight: 186
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
2007: 20/299/2 0 Games Started
It's tempting, isn't it? You see what a guy like Hester can do in the kicking game, how he can make guys miss and then kick into a gear no one else has, and then you hear that he's going to be more involved in the passing game, and it's tough not to imagine what could be. Visions of an NFC North Steve Smith dance in my head. Then Hester goes up and can't manage a 15YPC average. Maybe the Bears aren't using him very effectively: Maybe the skills that make him so dangerous in the open field don't translate to the passing game: Most likely it is a combination of the two. What is apparent is that Hester has talent and I think that this talent will become displayed in the passing game more next year. (For next year this holds doubly true if Berrian walks.)
The returns do bring Hester's value down as the coaching staff does not want to overburden a guy who weighs less than 190 pounds, but Hester proved in 2007 that he can add value to the Bears passing game. This role should only increase. The Bears have been burdened by bad quarterbacking and sunk by subpar signal calling. The running game was atrocious this year. On an average team, I think that Hester (probably the quickest guy on the list) would have a YPC of 16 or so...there is no reason why he can't be slightly better than where Holmes and Jennings end up. His role should increase and Hester is another player that could have a break-out year.
For 2008: 50/800/8
(78) Travis Wilson: Height: 6-1 Weight: 215
2006: 2/32/0 1 Game Started
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (I believe he managed to be declared inactive for every Browns game)
It could be worse I suppose, he could be Travis Wilson (KC RB). It's tough to find anything good or bad to say here (there are quite a few guys here who meet this description.) Right now, I can't imagine Wilson making a roster. While he did manage to make the team, he did not record a stat for the entire year. This third round pick will be on a practice squad next year. The only thing working against this is that he is signed to a four year deal, but I have to think the cap hit will be minimal now.
For 2008: 0/0/0
(84)Brandon Williams: Height: 5-11 Weight: 183
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Active for 13 games)
2007: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Active for 10 games)
Another third round bust. I'd be curious to see if someone can prove me wrong, but I'd be willing to be that no one who went 0/0/0 in their first two years in the league ever became a viable fantasy starter. Drafted by the Niners, Williams was cut at the end of September in 2007 (for the illustrious Michael Lewis)and signed with the Rams. He saw as much action in St. Louis as he did in the Bay City...de nada. Another guy that offers absolutely no value, Williams is at best a practice squad player this year.
For 2008: 0/0/0 (Did the Rams really need to bring him in to gain info on the Niners...the Niners???)
(82) Derek Hagan: Height: 6-2 Weight: 203
2006: 21/221/1 0 Games Started
2007: 29/373/2 1 Game Started
Talk about a glorious opportunity. After a mediocre-at-best rookie year, this former Sun Devil first saw slot receiver Wes Welker leave via trade, opening up the slot role for Hagan. Even with the drafting of Ted Ginn, it could be argued that Ginn would only handle returner duties and Hagan still could have a good opportunity on the offensive side of the ball. Then the Phins shipped Chris Chambers out of town and all Hagan had to do was beat out Marty Booker to become the number one receiver on his team. He was poised for success and...promptly blew it. As the point man in the imposing trio of Hagan, Booker and Ginn, Derek could not break 400 receiving yards.
There are mitigating circumstances. The Dolphins sucked. The quarterbacking sucked. Once Ronnie Brown went down, the running game was none to good (though Chapman had a pretty solid year, all things considered). Could the piss-poor play of the team have dragged down a diamond in the rough? I don't think so. Hagan did not positively impact the team. He finished with fewer receiving yards than Ted Ginn. At best Hagan will be the third WR on a poor team. At worst he won't have a team.
For 2008: 14/188/1
(90) Maurice Stovall: Height: 6-4 Weight: 220
2006: 7/102/0 0 Games Started
2007: 10/86/1 1 Game Started (IR with broken arm last week of regular season)
You can't teach height. The basketball saying also holds true in football. Stovall is a very important member of the Bucs special team unit. However, in the middle part of the 2007 season he got a chance to make an impact on the offensive side of the ball as well. Then, he broke his arm. Kinda sucks. However, he should be back for the start of the season and a broken arm won't impact his mobility like a knee would. The other problem is that Stovall is buried on the TB depth chart. His most productive game came when Clayton was out. However, the Bucs trotted out Ol' Man Galloway and Ike Hilliard last year. Neither of these guys are Cal Ripken Jr. and neither of them are in their twenties. Clayton had one great year, three years ago and has been amazingly bad ever since.
If a position opens up in the Bucs receiving corps, the competition will probably be between Clayton and Stovall for that opportunity. Clayton is reported to be in Gruden's doghouse repeatedly, while Gruden praises Stovall's energy effort and contributions. There is upside here. I can't justify taking Maurice in most formats, but in a deep dynasty, he'd be a guy I'd have stashed somewhere (IR if possible)
For 2008: 32/385/4
(95) Willie Reid: Height: 5-10 Weight: 186
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (1 game active)
2007: 4/54/0 0 Games Started (6 games active)
Willie Reid is the reason why Allen Rossum is a Steeler. Being awful on fielding punts is a quick way to get a coaching staff mad at you. Reid is one of the fastest Steelers, but Mike Tomlin seems to have formed an unfavorable opinion of Reid after a preseason highlighted by Reid diving after muffed punts. Coming off a 2006 foot injury that placed him on IR, Reid could ill afford to have this impression on the new coaching staff.
While he showed improvement from 2006 to 2007 (it would have been hard not to), there has not been enough to make me feel comfortable about recommending him in any format. If Reid can prove himself as a returner heading into next year he will hold a little more value because he will probably win the fourth wideout spot by default, but if he doesn't, he might not be long for the league.
For 2008: 6/88/0
(100) Michael Robinson QB/WR: Height 6-1 Weight 228
Drafted as a QB/WR, the 49ers turned Robinson into a running back. As of now, Robinson backs up Frank Gore and is excluded from the 2006 draft class survey.
For 2008: Handcuff to Gore, probably not much more than that.
(104) Cory Rodgers: Height: 6-0 Weight: 186
2006: Cut by the Green Bay Packers, signed by the 49ers, then cut from the San Francisco practice squad.
2007: 27/351/3 (For the CFL's British Columbia Lions)
For 2008: Those aren't great stats for the pass-happy CFL; doubt we will see him back in the big leagues
(109) Jason Avant: Height: 6-0 Weight: 212
2006: 7/68/1 3 Games Started
2007: 23/267/2 5 Games Started
Coming out of Michigan, Avant was labeled a possession receiver who lacked the speed to get down the field. After two years in the league, the lack of speed looks to be an accurate prediction...the possession receiver, not so much. The low YPC stat is the kiss of death to Avant ever having a dynamic year. With an 11 YPC, he would need 91 catches just to break 1000 yards for the season. There hasn't been an Eagle WR to have more than 85catches in more than 10 years. I don't think that Jason Avant will be the one to break this trend.
Avant could become a contributor for Philly. I just don't think that he will ever have the type of season that will make someone want to roster him. There are better opportunities out there than a player whose ceiling is probably 60/700/5.
For 2008: 35/418/3
(111) Demetrius Williams: Height: 6-2 Weight: 197
2006: 22/396/2 1 Game Started
2007: 20/290/0 4 Games Started (Only nine games played because of an ankle injury)
If I had to put money on one of the players outside the big four to break 1000 yards this season my bet would probably go to Demetrius Williams. "Spiderman" has good height, is a very good leaper and was a heck of a player at Oregon. If he could add ten more pounds of muscle, my man crush would only get bigger. Originally, Williams was supposed to be a second round pick, but he fell to the fourth round on a slower forty time and a lot of questioning of his route running. His on-field speed (just from first hand viewing) doesn't seem to be a problem and his route running is correctable. He appeared to have made strides in that direction until getting a bad ankle injury. If he can come back healthy, he has great potential and is a good sleeper in my mind.
For this year, the main issue is quarterbacking and the presence of Derrick Mason. The QBing for the Ravens was atrocious at times this year. If McNair can find lightning in a bottle again, their passing game should hopefully bounce back. When the Ravens put Mason and Clayton out at the same time, The Ravens have two possession receivers on the field. Also, Clayton and Mason are short. Williams gives the Ravens a bigger threat and a threat to stretch the field. If he is healthy and he refines his route running, he could be a very pleasant surprise.
For 2008: 68/1025/9 (Gotta have one thing to have bumped when he goes 22/330/0 next year)
(115) Will Blackmon: Height: 6-0 Weight: 202
A very poor man's Deion, Blackmon played WR for his final year of college and then reverted back to his former position...defensive back. I do not know of any plans currently in place to move him back to the offensive side of the ball.
For 2008: 1 int and some tackles.
(119) Brandon Marshall: Height: 6-4 Weight: 230
2006: 20/309/2 1 Game Started
2007: 102/1325/7 16 Games Started
It is interesting. Some people point to the presence of Hines Ward and Donald Driver as the reason that Holmes and Jennings have not had to face double-teams and #1 cornerbacks. The argument then goes that because these two faced weaker defenses they had more success than if they were true #1 WR's. There is another argument that says that Brandon Marshall was only good because Walker was hurt. This argument proceeds to claim that when Walker comes back, Marshall will be no better than a 1000/6 WR. I believe these two arguments are mutually exclusive and that neither of them hold much water. Good WR's manage to produce regardless of the circumstances they have in regards to other WR's (see Wayne, Reggie...with and without Harrison; See TJ Houshmanzada and Chad Johnson co-existence). I can see the number of targets for Marshall going down slightly, but I think that will be offset both in catch percentage (because there will be fewer defenders to blanket him if a healthy Walker is on the other side of the field) and YPC (if the defenses are stretched by the presence of two good WR's on the same team.
Likewise, if Walker leaves, Marshall has shown that he can produce on his size, speed and skills. It is easy to grow infatuated with a player who had the type of year that Marshall had. It's not his production that makes an owner nervous. He has suffered from injuries, but did not miss time with them this year. Even worse, he is the type of player that gives the NFL a black eye. According to Wikipedia, he has been arrested for domestic violence, resisted arrest, got popped for a DWI and is supposed to be the reason that Darrent Williams was shot. He's a heck of a player, but Baby TO has some growing up to do. Could another one of these incidents lead to sanctions by the NFL? That is now a possibility to think about.
For 2008: 90/1280/10
(125) Skyler Green: Height: 5-9 Weight: 190
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started
2007: 4/40/0 0 Games Started
Three teams in two years...generally not a player I am buying. Skyler was drafted by the Cowboys, cut, signed to the practice squad, brought up, cut, signed with the Bengals, made the roster, caught for passes, was sent to the practice squad, was signed by the Saints. In my best Kreskin impression, I see two more practice squads, three more cuts and two more catches in Skyler's NFL career.
For 2008: 1/19/0
(130) Domenik Hixon: Height: 6-2 Weight: 190
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (0 Games Active)
2007: 1/5/0 0 Games Started (Also rushed for negative eight yards, making him one of the rare players that had negative yardage for an active career.)
From the Broncos to the Super Bowl. The man who was on the other end of the Kevin Everett collision was cut by the Broncos and now may have the kick returner duties for the G-Men in the Super Bowl. He has a great story to tell his kids, perseverance, determination and all that jazz. However, he doesn't have much WR talent. He isn't the fastest guy on the field, with a marginal 4.45 at the combine. However, he was originally projected not to be drafted and he became a fourth round pick, so people have underestimated (or overestimated if you are arguing against the Broncos) during his career.
Still, I don't see him becoming a fantasy player of value.
For 2008: 0/0/0 Practice squad somewhere
(144) Marques Hagans: Height: 5-10 Weight: 205
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Practice squad)
2007: 8/101/0 0 Games Started (4 Games Played)
It's always intriguing to have Rams players kicking around on your roster, but I don't see much of an upside here. Hagans is smaller at 5-10, ran a 4.8 40 and is fairly heavy for his size. The coolest thing about him is that he played QB in college (before giving way to Matt Schaub) and sometimes is the emergency third string QB for the Rams. If Fitzpatrick can get in for a couple games, maybe Hagans can too. The Rams seem to like what he offers and he will probably spend 2008 like he did 2007; bouncing between the practice squad and the team if injuries occur.
2008: 3/44/0
(147) Jeremy Bloom KR/WR: Height: 5-9 Weight: 180 # of ninth place Olympic finishes: 1 Number of Real World members slept with: 1+
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Played (Hamstring Injury)
2007: Out of football before signing with the Steelers practice squad on 1/01/2008
How bad must Willie Reid be if they are bringing in this bum to replace him for a playoff game. If Rossum had missed the Jax game, Bloom would have gotten a shot at kick returning. Oh wait, Rossum did miss the game and Tomlin elected to go with Najeh over Bloom and Reid. You'll always have Salt Lake City Jeremy.
For 2008: AFL...maybe AFL2
(171) Mike Hass: Height: 6-1 Weight: 206
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Played
2007 0/0/0 1 Game played (Declared inactive by Bears other times)
Hey, he got in a game, keep working at it and by 2010 you'll have your first catch and maybe a TD in 2015. It's a shame, he sounds like a great, hard-working kid. He tore up the Pac-10, but turned in a 4.61 on the 40, which caused him to fall all the way to the sixth round. Hass has very good hands, but as the Bears sixth receiver I don't think he is going to be able to showcase them. Best case scenario would be for Muhammed to retire and for Berrian to leave, but I'm not sure this would be enough for Hass to get more than a token opportunity.
For 2008: Some special team work and 2/22/0
(172) Jonathan Orr: Height: 6-1 Weight: 193
2006: 0/0/0 Titans Practice Squad
2007: 0/0/0 Raiders Practice Squad
Orr was injured while on the Raiders practice squad and missed the entire year. Without that help, he may not even make another practice squad. He is a sloppy route runner and has poor hands. Look elsewhere for your sleeper pick.
For 2008: Insurance sales
(175) Delanie Walker: Height: 6-1 Weight 244
2006: 2/30/0 1 Game Started
2007: 21/174/1 10 Games Started
The good news for Delanie is that he is still in the league. That's a pretty good accomplishment for a late round draft pick out of Central Missouri State. The bad news is that he has been moved to TE. The TE position for San Fran was supposed to be filled by Vernon Davis. When Davis went down with an injury, Walker stepped into the TE role. Walker performed fairly well in the new position, scoring his first NFL touchdown. With the success of Robinson and Walker, it's a shame that the 49ers can't find a WR to move to QB as well.
For 2008: Eating a lot to solidify the back up TE job. With a healthy Davis, Walker would be lucky to match last year's numbers. 11/100/1
(184) Adam Jennings: Height: 5-9 Weight: 176
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Started (Did have a negative four yard rush, placing him in the company of Mr. Hixon)
2007: 6/62/1 1 Game Started
All-star kick returner at Fresno and reprises this role with the Falcons. Has found a niche there, but is nothing special. He also plays special teams. With a 4.5 40, he is not a speed demon. Also, the Falcons have a lot of young picks at the WR position. A short, slow WR is not something to get overly excited about.
For 2008: Special teams
(190) Jeff Webb: Height: 6-2 Weight: 211
2006: 3/23/0 0 Games Started
2007: 28/315/1 2 Games Started
A potential sleeper that has Herm Edwards excited. Edwards claimed that Webb was perfectly suited for an X receiver. Webb is a fairly strong fairly big WR who was inserted into the starting lineup for the last two games of the regular season. Webb responded with seven catches and his lone TD of the year. KC also uses Webb as a kick returner, a role that Webb is adequate in. For this year, what may be important is that Webb has the opportunity. Keeping him from starting are Kennison and Parker. Samie Parker has never seemed to put it together and Kennison became an "afterthought" to the Chiefs offense according to Sportsline.
Webb has potential, or at least as much potential as the #2 WR in a Herminater offense can have. Webb has the tools to make the most of his opportunity. The main question is whether or not he will receive such a chance.
For 2008: 48/610/6
(209) Ethan Kilmer: Height: 6-0 Weight 204 # of days he has in Wyalusing: 1
Those crafty Bengals made Ethan a safety, so he is of limited value to us. Worse, he ended up on IR in 2007 with a busted knee. However, he has a great story, walking onto the Nittany Lions and prominently figuring in their 2006 Orange Bowl win, still one of the best games I've seen.
For 2008: Defense
(218) Todd Watkins: Height: 6-2 Weight: 191
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Active
2007: 0/0/0 Falcons Practice Squad
If you are in a deep league, this guy could be worth a shot based on tools alone. At 6-2 he has the height to be effective. He also runs a 4.28, giving him a very intriguing mix of size and speed. The downside you ask? The guy couldn't catch the clap in a Russian whorehouse. Unless he manages to get the Robot Devil's hands, he probably won't make much of a difference...but if he ever did, a 6-2 burner could be exciting.
For 2008: Practice squad (If he could catch, he might make the Falcons as a returner)
(231) Bennie Brazell: Height: 6-0 Weight: 182
2006: 0/0/0 0 Games Active
2007: 0/0/0 Bengals Practice Squad
Bennie was IR'd in 06 and did not make the roster in 07. As a former Olympic finalist in the 400 hurdles he might have better luck getting ready for Beijing.
For 2008: Practice squad or Olympics.
(233) Devin Aromashodu: Height: 6-2 Weight: 200
2006: Colts Practice Squad
2007: 8/109/0 1 Game Started (7 Games Active)
Devin went from the Dolphins to the Colts to the Texans to the Colts, before we all got to hear his name when the Colts WR's started dropping like flies. The intriguing question is, did he do enough to stick with the team, especially if Marvin Harrison packs it in? My answer to that is no. He doesn't return kicks and he doesn't play special teams. Without doing those little things, I doubt that Aromashodu will be able to make the roster as a fifth WR. I know the temptation to hop on a guy playing for the Colts, but this is the wrong guy to pin your hopes on.
For 2008: Back to the practice squad
(249) Ben Obomanu: Height: 6-0 Weight: 206
2006: 0/0/0 Practice squad
2007: 16/243/1 0 Games Started (15 Games Played)
After paying his dues in 2006, Obomanu took full advantage of the opportunities that injuries created in Seattle's WR corp. Ben also stepped into special teams and returned kicks. While Obomanu did not have any monster games in 2007 he showed an ability to catch the ball (always impressive given Seattle's recent problems in that arena). More important, he was on the team for the entire year and he was active. When he had the chance he made the most of it. With Branch out with a ligament tear, Obomanu may go into the season as the third receiver after Hackett and Engram. On a team as pass-happy as Seattle, he could provide pleasant returns for the patient investor.
For 2008: 35/510/3
(251) David Anderson: Height: 5-10 Weight: 197
2006: 1/27/0 0 Games Started
2007: 12/131/1 0 Games Started
Don't be fooled by the fact he put up stats. These came in the weeks 4-8 of the season, when Andre Johnson was injured. Once Jacoby Jones got his feet wet, Anderson was relegated to special teams only, then deactivated entirely. In 2006, the Texans attempted to use Anderson as a kick returner/special team guy and gave up on the idea. I'd be surprised if he stuck around for much longer.
For 2008: Practice squad
(252) Marques Colston TE: Height: 6-4 Weight: 231
2006: 70/1038/8 12 Games Started
2007: 98/1202/11 14 Games Started
Drafted as a TE, the cause of numerous complaints to Yahoo after he broke onto the scene, and one of the best WR's in the game, Colston appears to be almost everything a WR should be. The only knock on him would be his speed, but with his sixe and strength, running a 4.55 40 isn't that much of a hindrance. After the slow start by the Saints, Colston came on like gangbusters and closed out the 2007 season on fire. Amazingly, I think that this seventh round, compensatory pick has to be ranked as the best WR from the class. While everyone wonders if Jennings, Marshall or Holmes can do it two years in a row, Colston already has.
And he shows no signs of slowing down. Though the Saints had a down year, the offense pulled out of its four game skid and finished fourth in the NFL in yards per game. It is rare for WR's to have two great years and then flame out, but examples of WR's who had one great year and then crashed and burned are much more prevalent (the Clayton brothers anyone?) Colston has done it twice and it seems to be a safe bet to pencil him into the top 10 WR's of 2008 right now.
For 2008: 90/1300/11
(255) Kevin McMahan: Height: 6-2 Weight: 196
2006: Failed to make Raiders roster
2007: Failed to make Giants roster
Just as Kevin McMahan was Mr. Irrelevant for the 2006 draft, so is he here. McMahan has failed to make practice rosters and has failed to survive longer than Jeff George during the 2006 paring of NFL rosters. Here is to another shot; Don't give up the dream.
For 2008: Working at Nick Tahou's
For those who don't want to read...the 2006 WR's in 2008:
(252) Marques Colston: 90/1300/11
(119) Brandon Marshall: 90/1280/10
(25) Santonio Holmes: 72/1116/9
(111) Demetrius Williams: 68/1025/9
(52) Greg Jennings: 65/975/8
(57) Devin Hester KR/WR: 50/800/8
(36) Chad Jackson: 50/735/6
(190) Jeff Webb: 48/610/6
(249) Ben Obomanu: 35/510/3
(90) Maurice Stovall: Height: 32/385/4
(109) Jason Avant: 35/418/3
(44) Sinorice Moss: 25/270/1
(82) Derek Hagan: 14/188/1
(175) Delanie Walker: Eating a lot, 11/100/1
(95) Willie Reid: Height: 6/88/0
(144) Marques Hagans: 3/44/0
(171) Mike Hass: Some special team work and 2/22/0
(125) Skyler Green: 1/19/0
(100) Michael Robinson QB/WR: Handcuff to Gore, probably not much more than that
(184) Adam Jennings: Special Teams
(115) Will Blackmon: 1 int and some tackles.
(209) Ethan Kilmer: Defense
(84)Brandon Williams: 0/0/0
(78) Travis Wilson: 0/0/0
(130) Domenik Hixon: 0/0/0 Practice squad somewhere
(218) Todd Watkins: Practice squad
(231) Bennie Brazell: Practice squad or Olympics
(233) Devin Aromashodu: Back to the practice squad
(251) David Anderson: Practice squad
(104) Cory Rodgers: doubt we will see him back in the big leagues
(147) Jeremy Bloom KR/WR: AFL...maybe AFL2
(172) Jonathan Orr: Insurance sales
(255) Kevin McMahan Working at Nick Tahou’s
Edit: Fix a their/there and I had Hixon on the wrong team.
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to the OP for the detailed breakdown.
Glad I read it.......can't believe I came across this reference, that few would get:
Great post by the way. Not to take anything away from the quality of the post, but it could use a little bit of bold on the players names.
Jimmy Smith was drafted in the 2nd round of the 1992 draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He didn't just go 0/0/0 for his first two years, he actually went 0-for-his first three, bouncing between the 53-man roster, the practice squad, and various injury lists before finally registering his first professional catch for his THIRD professional franchise on the 1995 expansion Jacksonville Jaguars.
Great post by the way. Not to take anything away from the quality of the post, but it could use a little bit of bold on the players names.
NINE TDs? I don't think the Ravens have EVER had a WR with 9 TDs..... which is an amazingly high number.
NINE TDs? I don't think the Ravens have EVER had a WR with 9 TDs..... which is an amazingly high number.
