By Jeff Paur
Senior Fantasy Writer
Realtime Fantasy Sports
Quarterbacks:The quarterback position continues to be deep for fantasy teams. And as past years have shown, having a top quarterback can be a big-time difference maker for fantasy teams. Teams that had Aaron Rodgers or Michael Vick made a lot of noise last season as both players posted a ton of points.
You can still wait on a quarterback and get a quality option such as Eli Manning, but getting an elite, top-five option will cost you a pick in the first three or four rounds of your draft. And with the way things played out last season, getting one of those top guys isn't a bad idea.
But you will also want to know your scoring system. Every league is different. Some leagues favor quarterbacks a little more while others try to devalue the position some by making passing touchdowns worth less as well as penalizing more for interceptions. So you'll want to know your scoring inside and out before deciding when to take a quarterback.
Running Backs:When it comes to fantasy, the running back position is a top priority. This seems to be the case every year and 2011 is no different. The top five or six seem to stand out over the other options. These guys will go fast come draft day, and teams having them will have an advantage over their opponents.
But there are other options out there with potential. Who is the Arian Foster of this season? That is the big question. Knowshon Moreno has the capability, playing in a new run-heavy offense. Can he finally stay healthy, though? Ryan Mathews is a talented back on the rise in a great offense, making him an intriguing pick come draft day. And don't overlook Shonn Greene, who had some struggles last season but should get more work in a run-heavy scheme with LaDainian Tomlinson on the decline. So there are options out there if you don't get those top guys.
You can't forget about the steady, veteran producers, though. Players like Frank Gore, Steven Jackson and DeAngelo Williams should have solid seasons in their current roles. It is always fun and exciting to take a young player, but sometimes going with the steady veteran or proven player is the way to go. We would feel pretty good about getting any of these backs for our team. Wide Receivers:The receiver position is a lot more coveted these days, mainly because so many leagues are points per reception (PPR). This makes getting someone like Andre Johnson a big plus for fantasy teams. Top receivers have even more value in PPR leagues. If you don't get an elite option in a PPR league, you aren't likely winning your league.
And we have some quality top options. There are about 12 or so elite fantasy receivers - guys capable of leading the league in scoring. After the top guys, though, we have a lot of similar options, which is why many wait on receivers after the elite guys are gone. It is another reason teams load up on No. 1 receivers early. You can use different strategies at the receiver spot and have success both ways.
Just like at running back, teams are looking for the next surprise. Who will be Brandon Lloyd in 2011? There are some breakout candidates. Austin Collie can do big things if he can stay healthy. His role should be expanded with Reggie Wayne another year older. Jeremy Maclin is another year older and produced consistent but not quite elite numbers last season. Things should get even better for Maclin this season. Jordy Nelson also has potential, having a huge finish to his season. Nelson should get more targets from day one in Green bay. So there are options out there that could break through. It would be good to target one, get one on your team and hope for the best. Tight Ends:The tight end position continues to be a point of emphasis around the league. And the NFL is a copycat league, so look for many teams to emulate what the Patriots did with their offense last season. New England used a lot of two-tight end sets and got their young tight ends involved in the offense. Expect more of the same from them and several other teams around the league. So tight ends provide a lot of value to NFL teams and fantasy teams. A top No. 1 tight end that produces similar to an elite receiver can be a huge plus for fantasy teams.
Jason Witten had numbers most No. 1 receivers didn't match. There are about five or so tight ends capable of having a Witten-type season this year. If you want one of those guys, act quickly. You'll likely have to use a pick in the first six rounds.
But there remains a lot of talent after those top options. Marcedes Lewis was an afterthought in many leagues last season, but turned out to be an elite option. There are similar up and coming tight ends out there this season, including Brandon Pettigrew, Jermaine Gresham and Jimmy Graham. These guys are capable No. 1s that you can get later in your draft.
Kickers:We mention it every season, but the key to finding a successful fantasy kicker is drafting a kicker that is on a team that wins games. Of the 13 kickers that finished with 110 or more points last season, seven played on team with a .500 or better record. Normally, it is a bit higher of a percentage but last year was a bit of an anomaly. There will be an occasional kicker that breaks this rule, but for the most part, the best kickers play on the best teams. They are giving them more opportunities to score, making their point totals among the best in the league.
And please don't be the guy that takes a kicker in the fifth round of your draft. The point deferential from week to week between the top kicker and the 10th rated guy is minimal. We aren't saying to totally discount the position, but use some discretion. Every point does matter, but having your core team in place before taking a kicker is a good idea come draft day.
You also know that some teams will surprise and a kicker's production will be rewarded. Last season, Josh Brown was a big surprise at kicker. He was sixth in the league in scoring, but went undrafted in many leagues because the Rams weren't a team on everyone's radar last season. Keep that in mind when thinking about taking a kicker in the early rounds of your draft. Let someone else use a mid-round pick on Nate Kaeding while you solidify the rest of your roster. Def / STs:The big thing with the defense/special teams position is knowing your rules. Some leagues really reward defenses for sacks, turnovers and points allowed while others just give points for touchdowns scored by your defense/special teams. This is quite a different approach, so before ranking or picking a defense during your draft, know what your league favors. Your rules will dictate the value the position in your league.
With that said, the Packers are our top selection this season after a big season last year. They return about everyone, added some new talent and will get healthier (missed a lot of players due to injury last season). But after the Packers, we have several solid choices. The Jets, Patriots, Bears and Steelers should have solid seasons and are capable of finishing near the top of most leagues in defense/special teams scoring.
And there are a couple different approaches to taking a defense. If you want to use a mid-round pick on a defense/special teams, take the Packers or Steelers or whoever you have rated high. But if you want to wait until the later rounds, grab two defenses you think you can platoon based on matchups. This is a good strategy to use if you want to wait a while before taking a defense and use that mid-round pick on another position. Getting two teams like the Vikings and Saints could do just as well as taking the Steelers with a higher pick. It is just something to think about heading into your draft. Platoon options can work well with this position.
| #1 | Arian Foster (RB) | TDs: 16 Yds: 1614 | Houston | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Foster missed a couple games early in the year with a knee injury but played at a very high level once on the field and playing. He missed three games but still ran for more than 1,200 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. Foster was even more impressive in two playoff games for the Texans, rushing for 285 yards and three touchdowns. He carried the offense for the Texans down the stretch with their third-string quarterback at the helm. Foster had seven 100-yard games and scored touchdowns in all but four games. He has 30 touchdowns the last two seasons. Foster does it all for the Texans, averaging 60 receptions for 611 yards the last two seasons. Foster might be the most complete back in the game right now. The Texans blocking scheme is a perfect fit for Foster, who cuts as well as any back in the game. Foster has size, speed, vision and plus hands. The Texans used to be a pass-first team, but are moving to a more balanced approach, utilizing a good offensive line and the talents of Foster.
Fantasy Outlook:
His season was overlooked a little last year because of his injury stuff to start the season but Foster was awesome last year. He might be the safe No. 1 pick this year. He gets consistent work in this offense and just posts monster numbers. A season with 2,000-plus total yards and double-digit scores seems likely for the coming year. He is our top rated player and should be one of the first three picks off the board. You won't find a more consistent back in the game. | | #2 | LeSean McCoy (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1080 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
The Eagles disappointed as a team last season but McCoy sure didn't. McCoy had a season to remember, putting together a season that is as good as any back in recent memory. He went over 100 total yards 10 of 15 games played. He scored 20 total touchdowns and finished with 1,624 total yards despite missing a game. He averaged 108 total yards per game. McCoy scored a touchdown in all but two games last season. He was a consistent force in the Eagles' offense. McCoy has two straight 1,000-yard seasons and averages 1,414 total yards per season for his career. He is 24 years old and in the prime of his career. McCoy is an elusive back with great hands. He just makes plays in space. McCoy also is a much better runner between the tackles, making some tough runs throughout the past few seasons. He'll continue to be a big focal point of the Eagles' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
McCoy will be hard pressed to match last season but he could exceed his total yardage numbers. It wouldn't surprise to see him break the 2,000-yard mark. Don't count on 20 touchdowns again, though. He could get 15 or so. Either way, you can make a strong case for McCoy to be the first overall pick. He has that kind of talent. He should at least be one of the top three picks off your board. | | #3 | Ray Rice (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1223 | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Rice enjoyed his best season to date, which is saying something considering his production to date. But Rice was huge all season, finishing with a career high in rushing yards and total yards. Rice eclipsed 2,000 total yards (2,068) for the second time in his career. The biggest improvement for Rice came in touchdown totals, scoring 15. His previous career high in touchdowns was eight. Rice finally got consistent goal-line chances and took advantage. Over the last three seasons, Rice averages 1,962 total yards per season the last three years. He also has 60-plus receptions three straight seasons. Rice is a good between the tackles runner for his size, but has game-breaking speed and great moves in the open field. He has very good vision and does a good job of setting up his blocks. And he is much improved in short-yardage situations, which is a huge plus for fantasy teams. Rice is the focal point of the Ravens' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rice is the real deal at running back. You can really make a case for him to be the No. 1 overall pick, especially in PPR leagues. He can match last season, getting 2,000-plus total yards once again. And we think he can get double-digit touchdowns once again. Rice is in the prime of his career and should be one of the first three picks off the board come draft day. You won't find a more consistent fantasy back. | | #4 | Calvin Johnson (WR) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1120 | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Johnson had one of the best seasons in NFL history for a receiver. He had nearly 100 receptions for almost 1,700 yards and 16 touchdowns. He scored touchdowns in all but five games and had eight 100-yard games. He even had two 200-yard games. Johnson was nearly unstoppable all season. Teams doubled teamed Johnston most every game but it didn't slow him down. He is in the prime of his career at age 26. The Lions have a pass-first offense that is emerging as one of the best in the game. Johnson has 1,000-yard, double-digit touchdown seasons three of five years. Johnson is a big receiver with top speed and the knack for making the big play. He will drop a few passes on occasion, but more than makes up for that because of his top playmaking ability. He is an amazing athlete, capable of making the circus catch.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson is our top rated fantasy receiver. He might have a hard time matching last year's remarkable season but he can come close. He is in the prime of his career on a great offensive team. Johnson can get 1,500 yards and double-digit touchdowns. He is the real deal and will be a difference maker for fantasy teams once again. | | #5 | Ryan Mathews (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 675 | San Diego | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Mathews really put behind him a disappointing rookie season. Sure, he still battled some injury issues last year but he missed just a couple games and finished with big numbers as the lead back for the Chargers. Mathews had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and finished with more than 1,500 total yards. He showed his talents as a complete NFL back. Mathews topped 100 total yards in 10 of 14 games. He averaged 110 total yards per game for the season. The only downer for Mathews was his touchdown total, scoring just six. He has 13 touchdowns in two seasons but should get more goal-line chances this coming year. Mathews will be the lead back in San Diego for years to come. He runs with power, but also has good speed and explosiveness, a rare combination at running back. Mathews doesn't have great moves in the open field but still has some big-play ability. Mathews does well as a blocker and is a capable receiver. Injuries are a concern for Mathews as he is yet to play a full season in two years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Mathews is the real deal at running back. He could really take his game to another level this season in an explosive offense. Expect his touchdown numbers to increase, hitting the double-digit mark. He can get 1,800 total yards and 14 or so scores, making him a legit No. 1 for fantasy teams. His track record with injuries makes him a risk but he played with injury last season and still performed, which is encouraging going forward. | | #6 | Chris Johnson (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1364 | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Johnson had a season to forget. He missed about all of training camp and preseason action because of a contract holdout. He eventually signed but did little early in the year as he tried to get back up speed with the rest of the team. Even though he had a bad year, Johnson still had a 1,000-yard season and finished with more than 1,400 total yards. The problem with Johnson was his consistency. He had four 100-yard games but also had six games with fewer than 50-rushing yards. He was all over the map last season. Johnson has four straight 1,000-yard seasons, though, and averages 1,768 total yards per season for his career. Johnson seemed to lack a little explosion last year but an offseason of work with the team should help regain some past form. Johnson remains a top big-play threat. He has explosive speed and great moves in the open field. Johnson also runs with a little power for a back of his size. Johnson also is a very good receiver, catching at least 43 passes each of his first four seasons in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson wasn't a complete bust last season but many teams are very down on him. He is a good buy-low candidate because of his huge potential. Not sure he gets back to his huge levels of past seasons but he can get better from last year. A season with 1,600 or 1,700 total yards and double-digit scores is a real possibility. Johnson remains a decent No. 1 back for fantasy teams despite last season. He was awful much of last year but still was a top-10 fantasy back. | | #7 | Maurice Jones-Drew (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1323 | Jacksonville | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
His season was overlooked some because the Jaguars weren't very good but Jones-Drew had a career season. He was as consistent as any back in the game. Jones-Drew had 80-plus rushing yards in all but a game last season. His consistency was off the charts. Jones-Drew set career highs in rushing, total yards and had his best yards per carry average since his rookie year. Jones-Drew had six 100-yard games and double-digit touchdowns (11) for the fourth time in six seasons. And he had this season despite getting next to no help from the passing game. If the Jaguars can make strides throwing the ball, Jones-Drew could find even more room to run. Jones-Drew has three straight seasons of 1,600-plus total yards. He averages 12 touchdowns per season for his career. Jones-Drew has avoided serious injury to date and is 27 years old, so he has a few good years left at playing at a high level. Jones-Drew is the complete package at running back. He has top speed, great moves and can also run with some power. Jones-Drew also does a great job as a receiver out of the backfield, having 40 or more receptions all but one season.
Fantasy Outlook:
You have to be somewhat concerned he will start to breakdown, especially after his heavy workload last season but his work early in his career wasn't too daunting. He should be able to hold up another season or two. So with that said, he is an elite fantasy back. The Jags offense should be better with Mike Mularkey in charger, which helps the touchdown potential of Jones-Drew. Expect another season with 1,700 total yards and double-digit touchdowns. He is a legit first-round pick and top fantasy back. | | #8 | Rob Gronkowski (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 546 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Gronkowski had a big rookie season, serving as probably the top red-zone target in the Patriots' offense. He scored 10 touchdowns on 42 receptions. Gronkowski should be a big part of the offense going forward for the Patriots. He is the most complete tight end on the roster, doing well as a receiver and blocker. Gronkowski isn't a flashy receiver, but has the speed to stretch the field and the strength to make the tough catches underneath. He isn't a great blocker, but willing and usually does a good job.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gronkowski emerged as a No. 1 tight end last season and should continue to serve that role well for fantasy teams in a pass-first offense. He has great touchdown potential and can improve his reception and yardage totals from his rookie season, getting more comfortable in the offense. A season with 60 receptions for 650 yards and around double-digit scores is possible for Gronkowski. | | #9 | Aaron Rodgers (QB) | TDs: 28 Yds: 3922 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
You don't hear this much, but Rodgers was about flawless last season. He had a season not matched by many in the history of the NFL. Rodgers had an amazing 48 total touchdowns to just six interceptions. He also completed 68 percent of his passes for 4,643 yards. Rodgers set career highs in touchdowns, completion percentage and yardage. Rodgers had 300-yard games in all but seven. He had multiple touchdown games in every single game, which is an amazing stat. Rodgers has 4,000-yard season three of his last four. Over the last four seasons, Rodgers averages 4,259 yards and 37 total touchdowns per season. He also has been picked off just 37 times in four seasons despite attempting more than 2,000 passes. Rodgers also is an underrated runner. He has at least 200-rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns each of the last four seasons. This part of his game can be overlooked, but is a real asset. Rodgers has a great arm and is extremely accurate (completed 64 percent of passes each of last four seasons). He makes plays with his feet and is durable (missed one game in three years as starter). The Packers have a great group of receivers and should continue to be a pass-first team offensively.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rodgers is our top rated fantasy quarterback. He does it all - throws for a ton of yards, piles up the touchdowns and even gets decent rushing totals. Plus, he is so consistent throughout the season, which is a huge asset for fantasy teams. He is in the prime of his career in a great offense for quarterbacks. He might not match last season but you can't do too much better than Rodgers. He'll throw for 4,000-plus yards and score around 40 touchdowns while running for 200 or so yards. | | #10 | Matt Forte (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1069 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Forte was enjoying his best season as a pro before a knee injury cut short his season. He missed the last four games of the year but was able to play in the Pro Bowl after the season was over, showing you his knee injury wasn't very serious. He'll be fine going forward. Despite missing four games, Forte still almost ran for 1,000 yards (997). He averaged a career-best 4.9 yards per carry and had his second best receiving total (490). Forte had nearly 1,500 total yards, averaging 123.9 total yards per game. He was a consistent force in the Bears' offense. Forte could get a lot of touches this season with Mike Tice calling plays. He is a more run-oriented play caller than Mike Martz, which should benefit Forte. But Michael Bush is around, which will take some work away from Forte, including maybe the goal-line carries. Forte has 1,000-yard seasons two of four in the NFL. He also has at least 50 receptions every season as a pro. Forte has double-digit touchdowns just once, though, and averages seven per season. He hasn't gotten a ton of goal-line chances, which could be the case this season as well. Forte has good size and runs hard. He isn't a huge big-play back but will make the occasional big play. He'll churn out some tough yards and make a lot of plays out of the backfield as a receiver. Forte is a solid overall NFL back.
Fantasy Outlook:
Forte is a good late first-round or early second-round pick. The touchdowns are the one thing holding him back from being an elite back. But his yardage totals will be among the best, finishing with around 1,800 or 1,900 total yards. He is just hitting his stride as an NFL back, which is encouraging for fantasy teams. | | #11 | Jimmy Graham (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 356 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Graham emerged the second half of the season and became the top pass-catching tight end for the Saints. He had four touchdowns the last three games and at least three receptions six of the last eight games. Graham scored five touchdowns on 31 receptions in 15 games. He is the future at tight end for the Saints. Graham should be the starter from day one this season in a pass-happy Saints' offense. Graham is a big target with top speed and the ability to make the tough catch. His route running still needs some work because of his lack of experience at the position, but he is making big strides in that area. He gives the Saints another big-play threat in the passing game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Graham is a rising star at tight end. He could really double last season's totals after doing next to nothing about half a season. Graham has the potential to get 60 receptions for 700 yards and around double-digit scores. Consider him a legit No. 1 tight end his second season in the league. His upside is very high. | | #12 | Marshawn Lynch (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 737 | Seattle | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
It took a few years, but Lynch finally had a career season. He was about unstoppable the second half of the year, topping 100 yards six of his last nine games. Lynch scored touchdowns 10 of his last 11 games. He finished the season with a career-high 13 touchdowns. Lynch also set career highs in rushing yards and total yards. He was a consistent force for the Seahawks. It seems Lynch has been around a long time but he is just 26 years old so he has plenty of good years left. He'll continue to be the work horse back in the Seahawks' offense. While his numbers haven't been off the charts as a pro, Lynch does have 1,000-yard season three of five years. He gets it done. Lynch is a big back with top speed and big-play ability. He also is a pretty good receiver out of the backfield. Until last season, consistency was an issue for Lynch but he fought through that last year. He could be maturing as a player.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lynch won't finish with gaudy yardage numbers but decent enough. He can get around 1,500 total yards and double digit scores. He isn't a surefire No 1 fantasy back but just outside that group. We don't think last season was a fluke. Lynch has the talent to repeat or exceed that showing. | | #13 | Adrian Peterson (RB) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1298 | Minnesota | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Peterson faces a long road back, tearing his ACL the second last game of the season. There is a chance he'll be ready for the start of the season but nothing is certain, trying to return from a major knee injury. We wouldn't rule him out for the start of the season, though. Even with missing four games, Peterson finished just 30 yards shy of his fifth straight 1,000-yard season. He did score 12 touchdowns, though, giving him double-digit scores every season of his career. Peterson had three 100-yard games and scores in all but three of the games he played. He had a big season despite facing a lot of stacked boxes throughout the year. If the Vikings can find more balance offensively, Peterson could see his numbers soar even more. When at full strength, Peterson is as explosive as any back in the game. He can run over tacklers but also has great speed to break a big play every time he touches the ball. Peterson also is an improving receiver, having 20-plus receptions three times during his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
His knee is an obvious concern, so he'll slip some in drafts. But we still consider him a low-end first round or early second round pick. Guys come back from these knee injuries quicker than before. Don't discount Peterson in 2012. He can have another season with 1,000-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns in an offense that should be better. | | #14 | Larry Fitzgerald (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1137 | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
It doesn't seem to matter who is throwing passes to Fitzgerald, he just keeps producing. Fitzgerald had his first 1,400-yard season since 2008 last year, catching 80 passes for 1,411 yards and eight touchdowns. He had six 100-yard games and at least 50 yards in all but two games. And this was with some inconsistent play at quarterback and little help around him at receiver. Fitzgerald just keeps producing every season as the No. 1 option for the Cardinals. He has five straight seasons with at least 80 catches and 1,000 yards. Fitzgerald doesn't have elite speed, but runs great routes and has plus hands. He is as athletic as any receiver in the game and remains in the prime of his career at age 29 (turns shortly before season).
Fantasy Outlook:
Fitzgerald is an elite fantasy receiver. His quarterback situation remains somewhat of a concern, but he proved last season he continues to prove he can still produce despite erratic quarterback play. You can pencil in Fitz for 90-plus receptions, 1,000-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns. He should be one of the first receivers taken come draft day. He has as consistent as they come. | | #15 | Darren McFadden (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1157 | Oakland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
McFadden was on his way to a career season before suffering a foot injury Week 7. He didn't play another down after that game. McFadden had 768 total yards and five touchdowns in seven games. He was averaging a career best 5.4 yards per carry before the injury. His foot injury shouldn't be a factor going forward. He should be 100 percent for training camp and preseason action. McFadden has a 1,000-yard season once during his four-year career but injuries have been a factor throughout his career. He has yet to play a full season as a pro. McFadden produces when healthy, though, so he'll get his chances. It took a few seasons, but McFadden finally lived up to his potential last season. McFadden has a ton of ability. He is a complete back. He catches the ball well (116 receptions in four seasons), can churn out the tough yards and has elite speed to make the big play every time he touches the ball. He is a game changer.
Fantasy Outlook:
His injury history hurts his value, but McFadden has as much upside as any back in the game. He can be the top rated fantasy back if all the chips fall into place. Consider him a low-end No. 1 back, though, since he has missed so many games throughout the years. He has the potential to get 2,000 total yards and double-digit touchdowns if he can make it through a full season but that is a big "if." | | #16 | Ahmad Bradshaw (RB) | TDs: 8 Yds: 1235 | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Bradshaw played with a cracked bone in his foot for a decent part of the season but still performed pretty well. Bradshaw missed just four games but scored a career-high 11 touchdowns. He finished with 926 total yards, averaging 77.2 total yards per game. Bradshaw had just one 100-yard game but had double-digit carries all but one of the games he played. His chronic foot issues are a concern going forward but at age 26, Bradshaw still has plenty left in the tank at this stage of his career. He is the top back for the Giants and should carry the load at running back as long as he is healthy. Bradshaw has 19 touchdowns the last two seasons and topped the 1,000-yard rushing mark in 2010. Bradshaw is a shifty back with elite speed. He has home-run potential with the ball in his hands. Bradshaw isn't the biggest back, though, which lends him to injury but he is a tough back that plays through pain and still performs.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bradshaw is an injury risk, but he has a ton of potential. He can top last year's numbers if he plays a full season. Plus, he has been finding the end zone on a regular basis, which is another plus for his fantasy value. Consider him an elite No. 2 back for fantasy teams, capable of getting 1,600 total yards and around double-digit touchdowns. Bradshaw is one injury risk worth taking a chance because of his huge potential. | | #17 | Tom Brady (QB) | TDs: 36 Yds: 3900 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Brady had another huge season. It wasn't his best as a pro but right up there with the rest of his best seasons. He actually did something he had never done before, throw for 5,000 yards. Brady completed an impressive 66 percent of his passes and had 42 total touchdowns to just 12 interceptions. Brady had an amazing 11 300-yard games this season and touchdowns in every game. He had multiple touchdowns in all but one game, a Week 5 matchup against the Jets. In the last two seasons, Brady has 79 total touchdowns to just 16 interceptions. He takes care of the ball as well as any quarterback in the game right now. Brady has four 4,000-yard seasons for his career and 30-plus scores three of the last four full seasons. The Patriots remain a pass-first team with Brady at the helm. He does a great job of distributing the ball to all his options and rarely turns the ball over. He has a strong arm and is extremely accurate. Brady knows the offense well and makes the most of his abilities.
Fantasy Outlook:
The numbers don't lie. Brady is an elite fantasy quarterback. You can make a strong case for him to be the top quarterback this season, especially with the emerging talents at tight end. You can pencil Brady in for about 5,000 yards and 30-plus touchdowns. His consistency makes him a very safe fantasy quarterback. We have no problem with Brady being taken first overall at the quarterback spot. He is worthy of that spot. | | #18 | Jamaal Charles (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 1467 | Kansas City | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Charles lasted all of two games, tearing his left ACL in Week 2. If there was any good news about the injury, he was hurt early enough last season that he should be full strength or near full strength for the start of 2012, barring a setback. Charles averaged 6.9 yards per carry before getting injured. Charles had back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons before last year and averages an explosive 6.1 yards per carry for his career. Charles is just 25 years old and in the prime of his career. He is the feature back in the Chiefs' offense, which tends to be run orientated. Charles has top speed, great moves and even runs with some power despite weighing less than 200 pounds. He is the complete package at running back. Charles even catches the ball well, having 40 or more receptions twice in his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Returning from a major knee injury is a concern but backs usually return a little better these days from torn ACLs, so we aren't too concerned. He is a low-end first-round or early second-round pick. He is capable of a 2,000-plus total yard season and double-digit touchdowns. He could be a good buy-low candidate, returning from injury. | | #19 | Andre Johnson (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 1216 | Houston | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Hamstring injuries plagued Johnson last season, missing nine games. But he produced his usual big numbers when healthy, having 33 catches for 492 yards in seven games. If you project those numbers out for a full season, Johnson finishes with 75 receptions for 1,125 yards and five touchdowns. Those numbers are still down for Johnson but he was less than 100 percent for some of the games he played, which hurt his numbers. Before last season, three straight 1,000-yard seasons. He also has three seasons with 100-plus receptions. Johnson turns 31 before the season starts but should continue to play at a high level. He hasn't started to fade just yet. Johnson is the go-to option in the Texans' offense. Johnson is the complete package at receiver. He can run, but also has great size. Johnson isn't afraid to make the tough catch and has the speed to stretch the field to make big plays.
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson has yet to score double-digit touchdowns in his career, which hurts his fantasy value. He also hasn't played a full season two straight years. His value is down a bit but he remains a legit No. 1 fantasy receiver but isn't the first to take off the board this year. He is a top-10 option. Johnson can get 1,300 or so yards and eight touchdowns in an explosive offense, barring injury. | | #20 | DeMarco Murray (RB) | | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
A broken ankle cut short his rookie season but Murray made his mark before getting injured. He actually set the Cowboys mark for rushing yards in a game, rushing for 253 yards against the Rams in Week 7. He had three 100-yard games on the season, rushing for 897 yards in 13 games. He averaged a very impressive 5.5 yards per carry. Murray is going to be the No. 1 back in Dallas for years to come. Murray is the complete package at running back. He is a home-run threat every time he touches the ball. Murray isn't a huge back but has decent strength. He has elite speed and great moves in the open field. Murray also is a solid receiver out of the backfield.
Fantasy Outlook:
His size makes him a bit of an injury risk but he has huge upside in this offense. He showed what he can do when starting for the Cowboys last season. Murray can be an elite No. 2 back for fantasy teams. He might even be a low-end No. 1 before the season is out. Murray can get 1,500 total yards and around double-digit touchdowns in this offense. | | #21 | Trent Richardson (RB) | | Cleveland | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Richardson was the first running back taken in this year's draft. He was the most NFL ready back. Richardson is a huge back with pretty good speed. He is a physical runner that does well in finding the hole and making plays after contact. He isn't a great receiver but can be effective on screens as evident by his work in college. Richardson doesn't have breakaway speed, though, and could have a hard time breaking many plays to the outside. This could be his one drawback as a runner. He'll be the franchise back in Cleveland for years to come. He'll get a heavy workload in what should be a more run-heavy offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Richardson will be a solid No. 2 back for fantasy teams. He won't post huge total yardage totals but can rush for 1,200 yards and score eight or so touchdowns his rookie season. He'll get plenty of work for the Browns. Just remember he plays in a poor offense with a likely rookie quarterback at the helm, which are two strikes against him. Don't hype him up too much based on ability alone. | | #22 | Steven Jackson (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1241 | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Jackson enjoyed his seventh straight 1,000-yard season. He continues to be the workhorse back in the Rams' offense. He was banged up some throughout the year but missed just a game and had 300-plus touches once again. Jackson had four 100-yard games and averaged 4.4 yards per carry, which tied the second highest total of his career. He did score just six touchdowns, though, which was a disappointment. But the entire Rams' offense was a mess, struggling to score every game. It is pretty amazing Jackson managed just fewer than 1,500 total yards considering how bad the Rams played. His workload has been very heavy as the Rams lead back (2,138 carries in eight seasons). He also gets a lot of work in the passing game, catching 40-plus passes four straight seasons. Even with a new coaching regime in place, Jackson should be the focal point of the offense. You do have to wonder how much he has left with his heavy workload and age (turns 29 before season starts). Plus, he usually gets nicked from time to time. Jackson is the complete package at running back. He has enough speed to break a play to the outside but also isn't afraid to run over a would-be tackler. Jackson is as big as some linebackers, making him a scary proposition for defenses.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson should be better than last season but remains an injury risk at his age. The new coaching staff should help his touchdown numbers and overall production. As long as he can stay healthy, he can approach double-digit touchdowns and top 1,500 total yards. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 fantasy back. | | #23 | Wes Welker (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 848 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
It is hard to believe but Welker actually had his best season to date last year. He finished a reception high of his career high and had career bests in yardage and touchdown. He topped 1,500 yards for the first time in his career and scored nine touchdowns. He also averaged 12.9 yards per reception, his highest total since his rookie season. Welker had eight 100-yard games and three games with double-digit receptions. Welker had at least four receptions in all but a game. He has at least 100 receptions and 1,000 yards four of the last five years. Welker remains the most dependable receiver in the Patriots pass-first offense. He probably is the top possession receiver in the game and Tom Brady's favorite safety valve. Welker is a small, speedy receiver with plus hands and the ability to make plays in the open field.
Fantasy Outlook:
Welker isn't a top No. 1 receiver outside of PPR leagues, but just outside of those top options. Remember, he has never had double-digit touchdowns in a season. But you can pretty much pencil him in for 100-plus receptions and 1,000 yards. He is about as sure of a thing as it gets when it comes to fantasy options. | | #24 | Roddy White (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1389 | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
White had a bit of a slow start to the season but really played at a high level the second half to the year. He had 120-plus yards four of his last seven games. White finished with 100 receptions, giving him 100 or more receptions two straight seasons. He also had his fifth straight season with 1,100-plus yards. Needless to say, White has been a consistent factor in the Falcons' offense, an offense that throws a lot more often these days. White is the top target in the passing game for Atlanta. White is a big, physical receiver with good speed and plus hands. He can make plays with his legs, but also isn't afraid to make the tough catch in traffic. White is the complete package at receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
You can make a case for White to be the top-rated fantasy receiver this season. He does it all, getting big reception, yardage and touchdown totals. White should get around 100 receptions for 1,300 yards and double-digit scores. You won't find a much more consistent fantasy receiver than White. | | #25 | Darren Sproles (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 270 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
A move to New Orleans meant a career year for Sproles. He set career highs in rushing, receiving and touchdowns. Sproles finished with 1,313 total yards and nine touchdowns. He had an astounding 86 receptions, leading all running backs and finishing near the top of the entire league. Sproles was a consistent force in the Saints' offense. He had never topped 1,000 total yards before this season and his previous career high in yards was 840. Sproles really made the offense click and should be a huge factor once again in 2012. Sproles probably is the best third-down or change-of-pace back in the game. He fits the role perfectly. Sproles has great speed and moves, but lacks the ideal size to be an every-down back. He also is a great return man, having return scores four of the last five seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Sproles is an elite back in PPR leagues but a solid No. 2 back in all other formats. He might have a hard time matching last year's huge season but he can come close in this offense. Another year with 1,000-plus total yards and 70 to 80 receptions seems likely. | | #26 | Michael Turner (RB) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1371 | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Turner just keeps chugging along as the lead back for the Falcons. He had another big season last year, topping 1,300 yards while scoring 11 touchdowns. He has four straight seasons of double-digit touchdowns with the Falcons. Turner had six 100-yard games last season, playing consistent football much of the year. He had double-digit carries in every single game. Workload is a concern for Turner, though. He has 300-plus carries three of four seasons and turned 30 this offseason. You have to wonder if he can continue to produce at his current clip. Turner actually set a career high in receptions last season, catching 17 passes. He has double-digit receptions two straight seasons, getting a few more chances as a receiver. Turner runs with a lot of power but has enough speed to break a big play. He is a power back that does a good job between the tackles and moving the pile with his strength. Turner does lack a little of the speed he had earlier in his career but still has enough speed to break some big plays.
Fantasy Outlook:
Turner is a top option in TD-only leagues because of his consistent touchdown totals. He'll likely score double-digit touchdowns once again this season. It wouldn't surprise to see his yardage numbers finally start to dwindle, though. He isn't getting any younger and has a lot of carries the last few seasons. Expect a season with around 1,100 total yards and double-digit scores, making him a top No. 2 back for fantasy teams. | | #27 | Frank Gore (RB) | TDs: 3 Yds: 853 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Gore played a full season for the first time since 2006. He did battle injury throughout the year but was able to play in every game. He had one of the best seasons of his career, finishing with 1,325 total yards and eight touchdowns. The 49ers were committed to the run last season and gave Gore a ton of chances, his second most carries of his career. Expect more of the same this season. Gore has 1,000-yard seasons five of his last six. His reception totals were way down last season, though, catching just 17 passes. He had 45-plus receptions five straight seasons before last year. Gore should be more involved in the passing game this coming year but his days of catching 50 passes might be over in this current offense. Gore has double-digit touchdowns just once in his career, which also is a concern for fantasy owners, especially with Brandon Jacobs around now to take the short-yardage work. Gore turns 29 before the start of the season so he probably doesn't have many good years left. He'll be the starter for the 49ers but might get a few less touches as the 49ers try to keep him fresh. Gore is an explosive back. He has good speed and moves in the open field. He has big-play potential and does well in the passing game. He is an injury risk, though, playing a full season just twice during his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gore had a nice rebound season last year but you have to wonder how much he has left. He always seems nicked during the season and his overall numbers have never been off the charts. Don't overvalue him come draft day. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or solid No. 2 back. He can top 1,000 total yards once again and get around seven to nine touchdowns. | | #28 | Cam Newton (QB) | | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Newton had arguably the best season ever by a rookie quarterback - at least statistically. He had an amazing 35 total touchdowns, including 14-rusing touchdowns. Newton led all quarterbacks in rushing touchdowns. He topped 4,000-passing yards and scored touchdowns in all but one game. He had three 300-yard passing games and 11 games with multiple touchdowns. He was as consistent as any fantasy quarterback, posting big weekly numbers. Newton also ran for 706 yards, giving him nearly 5,000 total yards of offense. He is the real deal and should continue to get better. Newton still needs to work on his accuracy and decision making. He turned the ball over 19 times and completed just fewer than 60 percent of his passes. Newton can be a little erratic throwing the ball at times. He has a cannon for an arm, though, and just has a knack for making the big play. He is the complete package at quarterback. The Panthers have a balanced attack offensively with Newton serving as the centerpiece of the team.
Fantasy Outlook:
Newton surprised everyone last season, playing at a high level about all season. He was a fantasy stud and should continue to be a huge fantasy factor the next several seasons. Newton is a top-five fantasy quarterback capable of leading all quarterbacks in scoring, mainly because of his rushing ability. We think he can cut down on the turnover and increase his passing touchdowns. It wouldn't be a huge shock to see his rushing touchdowns go down some, though. Even with that said, he has a chance to better last year's remarkable season. Remember, this is just his second year in the league. | | #29 | Drew Brees (QB) | TDs: 33 Yds: 4620 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
You probably didn't think it was possible but Brees likely had his best season to date last year. He broke an NFL record for yards in a season (5,476) and had 47 touchdowns to just 14 interceptions. His lowest yardage total of the season last year was 258 yards. He was picked off just 14 times despite throwing the ball 657 times. Brees also completed a career-best 71.2 percent of his passes. Brees has thrown for more than 4,300 yards six straight seasons. He has 33 or more scores four straight seasons. Brees is playing at a level that might not have ever been seen in the NFL. He is extremely accurate (completes 66 percent of his passes for career), makes great decisions and spreads the wealth to a host of talented options in the Saints' offense. The Saints try to have a balanced offense, but remain pass-first with Brees at the helm. Brees had at least 35-pass attempts in every game last season. He gets plenty of chances in this offense, an offense he knows very well.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brees should be the first or second quarterback off your board come draft day. He might have a hard time matching last year's magical season but he can near it. Another season with 4,500-plus yards and 40 or so touchdowns seem likely for Brees, who is in the prime of his career at age 33. He is worth grabbing in the first or second round come draft day, being a difference maker for fantasy teams. | | #30 | Hakeem Nicks (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1052 | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
His season was overlooked a little with Victor Cruz storming onto the scene in New York, but Nicks actually had a very good season. He set a career high in yards and caught 75-plus passes for the second straight season. Nicks had three 100-yard games with two of those games being for more than 160 yards. He displayed his big-game potential, averaging nearly 16 yards per reception. Nicks has back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. Even with Cruz around, Nicks is the top option in a very good Giants passing game. Nicks is a big target with great hands and athletic ability. Nicks is a top big-play threat because of his speed and size.
Fantasy Outlook:
Nicks is a top fantasy receiver. He plays in a great offense and is in the prime of his career. Expect another 1,000-yard season and around double-digit scores. He isn't an elite option but just outside of that group. Don't downgrade him on your draft board because of the emergence of Cruz. Nicks will post big numbers. | | #31 | A.J. Green (WR) | | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Green lived up to the hype his rookie season, having a big year. He had a 1,000-yard season and scored seven touchdowns. He made a ton of big plays, averaging 16.2 yards per reception. Green had four 100-yard games. He did have six games with less than 50 yards but should improve his consistency as he gets older and quarterback Andy Dalton gets better. Green is a playmaker. He has size, speed and runs routes well for such a young player. Green might need to get a little stronger and could improve some as a blocker, but those are really two very small negatives on him. Green will be the No. 1 receiver in the Bengals' offense for years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
Green is going to be a big-time fantasy star - maybe as soon as this season. He is the real deal in an emerging offense. His numbers won't be off the charts in this offense but can be very good for fantasy teams, making him a low-end No. 1 fantasy receiver. He can get 1,300 or so yards and double-digit scores. | | #32 | Matthew Stafford (QB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 535 | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Stafford finally had that breakout season. He stayed healthy and produced huge weekly numbers in an emerging offense. Stafford played every game, enjoying eight 300-yard games. He scored a touchdown in every single game and had 12 multiple touchdown games. Stafford even did a good job of limiting turnovers, having just 16 interceptions despite attempting 663 passes. He threw for 5,000 yards and scored 41 touchdowns, putting him among the elite quarterbacks. As long as he is healthy, the sky seems the limit for Stafford in this offense. He completes 60 percent of his passes for his career and has 63 total touchdowns in just 29 games. Stafford has a huge arm, moves around the picket well and is a big, strong kid. His accuracy is improving as is his decision making. He should continue to grow as an NFL quarterback.
Fantasy Outlook:
Stafford put the injury concerns behind him last season. He is a top-five fantasy quarterback. You can even make a case for him to be the first quarterback taken. He has that kind of upside. Stafford should produce big numbers once again, getting around 5,000 yard and 40 touchdowns. | | #33 | Chris Wells (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 397 | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Wells finally had that breakout season. He was a force, running as well as any back in the game early in the season. Wells had touchdowns the first four games of his season. He had 90-plus rushing yards three of those games. Wells had a three-touchdown performance and another game with 200-plus rushing yards. He enjoyed his first 1,000-yard season of his career. He also had double-digit scores for the first time. Wells did suffer a knee injury during the season and wasn't quite the same back down the stretch. He had fewer than 55-rushing yards each of his last three games and needed clean-up surgery on the knee after the season. Wells has a bit of history with knee injuries, which is a concern, but should be healthy for the start of the season. He will be the lead back in the Cardinals' offense. Wells runs well for his size and can make tacklers miss with his good moves in the open field. He lacks a little breakaway speed but is capable of the big play. Wells isn't much of a factor in the passing game, though, having 27 receptions in three seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wells might be overvalued a bit after last season. You have to like his rushing yardage and touchdown potential but he rarely is a factor in the passing game and is an injury risk. Consider him a top No. 2 back for fantasy teams. But don't overpay for him. He should get around 1,200 total yards and double-digit touchdowns. | | #34 | Greg Jennings (WR) | TDs: 12 Yds: 1265 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Jennings missed the last three games of the season because of knee surgery but was able to return for the playoffs. His knee shouldn't be an issue moving forward. He was having another fine season before the injury, finishing 51 yards shy of 1,000 despite missing three games. Jennings had three 100-yard games and nine touchdowns in 13 games. He was a little more erratic than previous years, though, having fewer than 50 yards four times. Overall, it was another good season for Jennings, though. He had three straight 1,000-yard seasons before last year. He also has two of six seasons with double-digit touchdowns. He remains a top targets in the Packers pass-first offense. Jennings is one of the top big-play threats in the game, averaging 15.9 yards per reception for his career. Jennings has top speed to stretch the field on deep passes and the ability turn a short reception into a big play. Jennings will drop the occasional pass, but has gotten better with this over the years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jennings is an elite fantasy receiver, but not one of the first five off the board. Jordy Nelson is emerging in this offense, taking away some of the looks from Jennings. He'll still have plenty of big games and good numbers in the end but not off the charts numbers. He can get you around 1,200 yards and double-digit scores, making him a low-end No. 1 come draft day. | | #35 | Aaron Hernandez (TE) | TDs: 6 Yds: 563 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Hernandez was a big-play threat at tight end for the Patriots his rookie season. He averaged 12.5 yards per reception and scored six touchdowns. He did disappear a few games (four games with less than 20 yards) but had some big showings in others (five games with five-plus receptions and a 100-yard game). Hernandez should continue to get plenty of chances in the Patriots' pass-first offense. He won't get as much playing time as Rob Gronkowski because he isn't much of a blocker, but the Patriots will split Hernandez out wide as a receiver often. He creates mismatches for the opposition because he is a top athlete and pass catcher. He can makes plays downfield because of his top speed and athleticism for the position.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hernandez has obvious upside in this offense. He had a big showing his rookie season and could improve on that his second year. It wouldn't surprise to see him get around 55 receptions for 650 yards and seven touchdowns. He is a low-end No. 1 tight end for fantasy teams but won't be quite as consistent as some of the top options. | | #36 | Fred Jackson (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 927 | Buffalo | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Jackson was well on his way to his best game as a pro before breaking his leg Week 11. Jackson had nearly topped 1,000-rushing yards before the injury. He finished the season with 1,376 total yards in 10 games. Jackson had six 100-yard games. He was producing big every week before the injury. Jackson has topped 1,000 total yards three straight seasons. The problem is backup C.J. Spiller played very well in his place and likely earned a lot of playing time for 2012. A timeshare seems likely going forward for the two backs. Jackson isn't a huge back, but has top speed and great moves in the open field. He has improved as an inside runner and continues to make plays in the passing game. Jackson is 31 years old, though, which is a bit of a concern but his career high in carries is 237 so Jackson seems to have plenty left in his legs.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson picked a bad time to get hurt. His injury opened the door for Spiller, who took advantage. Jackson will still get his work and could top 1,000 total yards but his numbers could be even better with Spiller gone. So consider Jackson a top No. 3 back or flex option. We aren't sure you can depend on him to be much more than that at this point. His production could be up and down throughout the season. | | #37 | Michael Vick (QB) | TDs: 21 Yds: 3018 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Vick had his struggles last season, missing time with injury while producing inconsistent numbers. But he did post some good numbers at times and his overall numbers were similar to the previous season except for rushing touchdowns. He had just one rushing touchdown while having nine the previous season. His rushing and passing totals were very similar to his breakout '10 season, though. Vick also was a little more turnover prone, having 14 interceptions compared to just six in 2010. Vick did finish well last season, having seven touchdowns to just two interceptions the last three games. He also threw for at least 274 yards in each of those games. Vick has 3,000-yard passing seasons each of the last two years. He also averages 633-rushing yards the last two seasons. Vick has big upside in an explosive Eagles' offense. He is an injury risk, missing seven games the last two seasons. Vick is a gifted runner with a rocket for an arm. His accuracy has improved through the years as well as his decision making but he still will struggle in these areas from time to time.
Fantasy Outlook:
Vick was the top overall pick in some leagues but he likely won't even be a first-round pick this year. But even with that said, you have to like his fantasy potential. Sure, you can count on him to miss a few games because of injury but he'll also get you 3,000-passing yards, 600-rushing yards and around 25 touchdowns. He is a solid No. 1 but make sure you have a top backup for those weeks he misses. He is a good buy-low candidate after last season. | | #38 | Mike Wallace (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1257 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Wallace didn't quite have a career season but had a big year once again. He topped 1,000 yards for the second straight year and had a career best 72 receptions. He had a quick start to his season, hitting the 100-yard mark the first three games of the year. Wallace had just one after Week 3, though. Wallace was a little quiet down the stretch, having fewer than 50 yards three of the last six games as other options emerged in the Steelers passing game. But even with that said, Wallace is the No. 1 receiver for the Steelers. During the last two seasons, Wallace averages 66 receptions for 1,225 yards and nine touchdowns per season. Wallace has great speed and the ability to make a big play every time the ball is in his hands (averages 18.7 yards per catch for his career). His route running still isn't top notch but getting much better. Wallace also has good hands and a knack for making the big play.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wallace is a top-notch fantasy receiver. His finish was a little bit of a concern but we think he can be more consistent this coming season. It wouldn't surprise to see him get career highs across the board. Wallace can get 80 receptions for 1,300 yards and double-digit scores. Consider him a low-end No. 1 for the coming season. | | #39 | Jordy Nelson (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 582 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Nelson moved his way into the starting lineup and took advantage, having a breakout season with the Packers. He had a monster year, finishing among the league leaders in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro and had an amazing 15 touchdowns. Nelson scored touchdowns in all but five games. He had five 100-yard games and had fewer than 50 yards just four times. Nelson is going to be a big part of the Packers' offense for years to come. Nelson is a good athlete with above-average hands. He makes plays after the catch because of his top speed and moves in space. He will struggle with drops on occasion but has improved in that area and has the trust of Aaron Rodgers, who looks his way often.
Fantasy Outlook:
Even with Greg Jennings around, Nelson is a legit No. 1 for fantasy teams. He might have a hard time getting 15 scores again but he can top 1,000 yards and score double-digit touchdowns in a great Packers' offense. Last season was not a fluke for him. He is the real deal for fantasy teams. | | #40 | Shonn Greene (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 766 | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Greene continues to fail to live up to expectations. He had his best season to date last year but still didn't quite perform as well as expected. Greene had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro. He finished with 1,265 total yards but scored just six times. Greene has just 10 touchdowns in three seasons. Greene had two 100-yard games last year but those two games were the only all season he was over 90-rushing yards. He was pretty mediocre despite all his carries (253). Greene had double-digit carries in all but a game. Greene also got a lot more work in the passing game, catching a career-high 30 passes. Greene should continue to be the lead back for the Jets but could be on a shorter leash going forward. He needs to improve his consistency. Greene is a powerful back that does a good job of running between the tackles. He hits the hole in a hurry. He has battled some fumbling issues throughout his career, though, and doesn't make a ton of big plays in the running game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Greene has the makeup of a Michael Turner, so the potential is there for big things. His lack of scores really hurts his value, though. Take him as a No. 2 back and hope for a breakout season. It is very possible, but reaching for him higher than that is a big risk. A season with 1,400 total yards and eight or so touchdowns seem realistic for Greene in his fourth season in the NFL. | | #41 | Victor Cruz (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 0 | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | | | #42 | Julio Jones (WR) | | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Jones was a little erratic his rookie season but he had some huge games and finished with good numbers in the end. He did miss three games because of injury but finished just 41 yards shy of 1,000. He had five 100-yard games in the 13 games played. So he did flop in others, having fewer than 30 yards five times. But as Jones matures and gains the confidence of Matt Ryan, those down games should be a lot fewer and far between. Jones looks like a star in the making. He is a big target with size and strength. Jones is a physical receiver that runs solid routes and has plus hands. He doesn't have top speed, but proved last season he can be a home-run threat and run away from defenders.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones has some competition for targets but he will post big numbers in what is now a pass-first offense. Expects his first 1,000-yard season and around double-digit scores. He is going to be a fantasy star for years to come. Take him as a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 fantasy receiver. | | #43 | Dwayne Bowe (WR) | TDs: 15 Yds: 1162 | Kansas City | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Bowe had 100-yard games three of his first five and didn't have another the rest of the season. He still had a solid season, though, topping 1,000 yards while catching 81 passes. The Chiefs didn't exactly get consistent quarterback play all season, which didn't help Bowe. Over the last two seasons, Bowe averages 77 receptions for 1,161 yards and 10 touchdowns per season. He has 1,000-yard seasons three of five years in the NFL. At age 27, Bowe is in the prime of his career as the Chiefs No. 1 receiver. The Chiefs have a run-first offense but Bowe gets his chances as their top target. Bowe has a ton of ability. He is a big, strong receiver that isn't afraid to make the tough catch. He also is a load to bring down in the space because of his size and elusiveness. Bowe still struggles with some drops, lacking concentration at times.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bowe had a drop in production last season but still produced for fantasy teams. His quarterback remains a concern but he'll get his weekly targets, giving him fantasy potential. He can better last season, getting around 1,200 yards and eight or so touchdowns. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #44 | Antonio Gates (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 782 | San Diego | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
If not for a foot injury, Gates likely has his best season as a pro. He scored 10 touchdowns in 10 games and piled up an impressive 782 yards. Gates was nearly unstoppable when on the field last season. He had three 100-yard games and touchdowns seven of the first eight games of the season. Unfortunately, Gates suffered a torn plantar fascia in his right foot, which hampered him pretty much the entire second half of the season. He was inactive most weeks. Gates didn't need surgery on the injury but dealt with this injury before, which is somewhat of a concern. Gates has two 1,000-yard and three double-digit touchdown seasons for his career. Some think he has a history of injury, but he missed just three games prior to last season. Gates will get nicked but usually plays through the pain. Gates is a very tough cover at tight end. He has plus speed for the position, great hands and seems to always put himself in position to make the catch. He is the favorite target of Philip Rivers in the Chargers pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gates is as steady as any tight end in the game. He'll get around 1,000 yards with nine touchdowns as long as he is healthy. He is a top-three tight end and worth a look as the first overall tight end. Remember, he was having a huge season last year before getting hurt. His upside is as high as any fantasy tight end in the game. | | #45 | Jermichael Finley (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 301 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Finley was on his way to a career season, but a knee injury cut short his season after just five games. Finley tore his meniscus and needed surgery. He even got an infection in the knee after the surgery, which caused further complications. Finley endured another surgery to clear up the infection, landing him on Injured Reserve. Finley should be ready for the start of training camp this year. His original knee injury wasn't too serious as far as knee injuries go. Finely had 100-yard games two of his first four last season and had at least four receptions in all of those games. He is a big part of the Packers' passing game and should be for years to come. Finley is a speedy, athletic tight end, making him a tough cover for oppositions. Finley has similar moves to a receiver but with a lot more size. He still isn't a great blocker, but improving some in that area. Finley should get plenty of targets in the Packers pass-happy offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Finley is a top-five fantasy tight end, capable of leading all tight ends in fantasy scoring. He can build on his big '09 season. Finley can finish with 900 yards and eight touchdowns in this offense. He is a bit of a risk after his knee injury, but his upside is as high as any tight end in the game. | | #46 | Miles Austin (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1041 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Austin failed to top 1,000 yards for the first time in a couple seasons but didn't hit that mark because he missed six games (hamstring injury). Austin had 579 yards in 10 games, averaging nearly 60 yards per game. He finishes with 926 yards if he plays a full season. Austin got a few less targets with Laurent Robinson emerging in the passing game. But Robinson is gone, which should lead to a spike in targets for Austin, especially if he can stay healthy. Austin has 1,000-yard seasons two of the last three and at least seven touchdowns three straight seasons. Dez Bryant might be the No. 1 receiver in the Cowboys' offense now but Austin isn't far behind. They are more co-No. 1's than anything. Austin is a big-play threat with the ball in his hands. He is a tall, lean receiver with plus speed. Austin still isn't quite as polished as a route runner as some of the elite receivers, but continues to get better in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Injuries are a bit of a concern after last season but Austin is a good buy-low candidate because of his potential. He can get 1,000 yards and near double-digit scores in this offense. Consider him a top No. 2. We expect a much better season, especially with Robinson now out of the picture. Austin is capable of the huge game any given week. | | #47 | Jason Witten (TE) | TDs: 9 Yds: 1002 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Witten had another banner season last year, topping 1,000 yards for the second straight season. It was his third 1,000-yard season the last four years. He also had 94 receptions for the second straight season. Witten did set a career high last season, scoring nine touchdowns. His previous high for scores was just seven. Witten had three games with double-digit receptions and scored touchdowns his last five games. He had five games with 80-plus yards. Witten has some competition for targets in Dallas, but will get plenty of chances in the passing game. He is a favorite target of Tony Romo. Witten is an athletic tight end with above-average speed. He does well in traffic and has very good hands.
Fantasy Outlook:
You can make a strong case for Witten to be the first tight end off the board. His numbers don't lie. He is good for 90-plus receptions for 1,000 yards. His reception and yardage totals will be among or the best of any tight end. The only thing that doesn't make Witten the sure No. 1 overall tight end are his lack of scores. He has yet to score double-digit touchdowns for his career and averages five per season for his career. | | #48 | Percy Harvin (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 871 | Minnesota | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Harvin had a career season, setting career highs in receptions, receiving yards and rushing yards. He finished three receptions shy of 90 and had 1,312 total yards on the year. Harvin was the focal point of many games last season, especially when Adrian Peterson was sidelined. Harvin even got inconsistent quarterback play but was still able to post good numbers. He could be more productive this season with Christian Ponder another year older at quarterback. Harvin is the top receiver in the offense. He has at least 60 receptions and 800 total yards in every NFL season. Harvin is a top playmaker with the ball in his hands. He has great speed and moves in the open field. He lacks some size, but plays bigger than his size, not shying away from contact over the middle and in the red zone. Migraines have been an issue for Harvin but he was able to play a full season for the first time in his career last year, which was encouraging. He had minor shoulder surgery during the offseason but should be fine for the coming year.
Fantasy Outlook:
His season was overlooked a little because the Vikings weren't very good but Harvin proved he can be a fantasy star. He has big-time total yardage potential. It would surprise us to see him near 1,500 total yard and double-digit scores this season. Consider him a top No. 2 or even a low-end No. 1 fantasy receiver. | | #49 | Philip Rivers (QB) | TDs: 30 Yds: 4710 | San Diego | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Rivers had his struggles last season, throwing a career-high 20 interceptions. He also lost seven fumbles, giving him 27 turnovers on the season. He did throw for 4,624 yards and 27 touchdowns, though. Rivers had multiple interceptions his first three games and six of his first eight but picked up his play down the stretch. The Chargers got healthy at receiver and Rivers benefitted, throwing 12 touchdowns to just three interceptions the last six games of the season. In his last four seasons, Rivers averages 4,399-passing yards and 30 touchdowns per season. He produces big numbers in the Chargers pass-friendly offense. Rivers is a very accurate quarterback. And besides last season, his turnovers are usually way down considering how many pass attempts he gets. Rivers doesn't have great foot speed, but moves around the pocket well and can make plays on the move.
Fantasy Outlook:
Some are down on Rivers after last season but don't overlook his strong finish. He is a good buy-low candidate. Rivers can build on that finish in this offense. Rivers could return to top-five status this season. It wouldn't surprise to see him get around 5,000 yards and 30 scores. He remains an elite fantasy option. | | #50 | Roy Helu (RB) | | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Helu had a sporadic role much of the season but eventually emerged as the go-to back before his season was cut short because of knee/toe injuries. Helu had three straight 100-yard games from Week 12-14. He also had a 100-yard receiving game in Week 9, showing his dual threat ability. Helu finished the season with 1,019 total yards and three touchdowns. Even when he wasn't getting the chances to run the ball, he was a big factor in the passing game, catching 49 passes. He'll be a big part of the offense whether he is starting or serving as a change-of-pace back in 2012. There is a good chance he gets the most chances of the Redskins' backs, though. He is a very talented player. Helu has good size and speed. He hits the hole in a hurry and can reach the next level quickly. He showed off his receiving skills last season and should only get better in this area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Helu is a concern in the Redskins' offense as they have a history of rotating backs at running back but he clearly has the most upside of all the backs on the roster. He is a high upside pick as a top No. 3 back or even a low-end No. 2. He can get 1,200 total yards and six touchdowns in an even larger role this season. | | #51 | Brandon Marshall (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 1014 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Marshall had his fifth straight 1,000-yard season last year. He went over 1,200 yards for the third time in his career. His reception total, 81, was the lowest of his career but still gave him five straight years of 80-plus catches. Marshall did have some quarterback issues to do with in Miami, though, which didn't help his production. Even with that said, He had five 100-yard games and at least three receptions in every game. Marshall heads to Chicago this season, reuniting with Jay Cutler, the quarterback he had his best seasons playing with. The Bears will have a more run-first approach this season but Marshall will get his chances as the top receiver in their offense. Marshall has some attitude concerns, which likely got him shipped out of Miami, but produces when on the field. He is a huge target with great hands. Marshall makes a ton of plays after the catch, which is amazing for a receiver of his size. He is tough to bring down once the ball is in his hands because of his size.
Fantasy Outlook:
His touchdown totals are the one thing holding Marshall back from being an elite fantasy receiver. He has double-digit scores just once and seven or fewer scores all but one season. He will have big reception and yardage totals, though, and his touchdown numbers should go up playing in a better offense. He can get 90 receptions for 1,200 yards and nine scores, making him a low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. | | #52 | Peyton Manning (QB) | TDs: 33 Yds: 4700 | Denver | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Manning didn't play a snap last season, recovering from multiple neck surgeries. His status remains a bit murky going forward because of the injury but he believes he'll be ready to play 2012. We all know what Manning can do when healthy, though. Before last season, he threw for 4,000-plus yards five straight seasons. He has 30-plus touchdown passes six seasons. When on his game, he is one of the best - if not the best - in the game. Manning is 36 years old and coming off a major injury, so isn't quite the sure thing of past seasons. He is like an offensive coordinator on the field. He knows the offense inside and out. Manning doesn't have a huge arm at this point of his career, but remains very accurate and knows where to put the ball to make plays. He heads to Denver this year, leaving Indianapolis for the first time in his career. The Broncos don't have prolific offensive weapons in the passing game but Manning will run the offense and should throw often.
Fantasy Outlook:
Manning is a risk but the upside is certainly there. If healthy, he'll get you 4,000 yards and around 30 touchdowns. We would make sure to get a top backup on your roster, though. Manning could be boom or bust after last season. He has a lot more question marks than your typical fantasy No. 1, especially with his move to a new team. | | #53 | Eli Manning (QB) | TDs: 31 Yds: 4002 | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Manning might have enjoyed his best season to date, throwing for nearly 5,000 yards while scoring 30 touchdowns. He had eight 300-yard games and multiple touchdowns in all but five games. Manning was a consistent producer all season and did a good job of avoiding the really bad game, which plagued him the last few seasons. Manning has three straight 4,000-yard seasons and averages 29 touchdowns per season during that stretch. Manning seems to have taken his game to a new level, leading a pass-happy Giants' offense. New York has some emerging receivers, which could lead to even better numbers in 2012 for Manning. Manning has a good arm and is an accurate quarterback. He still makes some bad decisions but has improved in that area the last few years. Manning also is durable, playing every game the last seven seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
He gets overlooked at times but Manning is a legit No. 1 for fantasy teams. He should be considered in that elite category, especially after last season. You probably never thought he would be rated higher than his brother but that is the case right now. Manning can improve his fantasy numbers in this offense, getting 35 or so touchdowns and big yardage numbers (5,000-plus). He is a good guy to take after the big boys are off the board (i.e. Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers). | | #54 | Tony Romo (QB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1605 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Romo missed a game because of a thumb injury but still had a big season. He topped the 4,000-yard mark and scored 32 touchdowns. His touchdown total was the second highest of his career. It was the third time he hit the 4,000-yard mark passing. Romo really limited the turnovers last season, throwing just 10 interceptions. He had a career-best 102.5 quarterback rating. He also had five 300-yard games. Romo plays in a high-powered Cowboys passing attack with several top options at his disposal. He has a plus arm and does well making plays on the run. He will force some throws and make some bad decisions but has improved in that area the last few years. Romo is 32 years old so he has plenty of good years left in this offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Romo is an elite fantasy option. He isn't in the same category as Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers but just outside that group. He'll post consistent weekly numbers in a good offense. You can expect around 270 yards and a couple scores each week from Romo. Another season with 4,000-plus yards and around 35 scores is likely for Romo. | | #55 | Marques Colston (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1023 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
There were some questions about his health heading into last season but Colston proved he was more than healthy, having one of his best seasons to date. He had the second most receiving yards of his career despite missing two of the first three games of the season, finishing with more than 1,100 yards for just the second time. He had four 100-yard games during the regular season and topped 100 yards in each of their two playoff games. Colston has 1,000-yard seasons all but one during his six-year NFL career. He has been a consistent force as the No .1 receiver in the Saints' offense, a role he should continue to serve this season. Colston does have some injury concerns because of past knee issues but he has played at least 14 games the last three seasons. Colston is a big target with plus speed. He still drops the occasional pass, but runs good routes and will make the tough catch in traffic. The Saints are a pass-first team that spreads the ball to a host of receivers, but Colston is a good bet to lead the receivers in targets as their No. 1 receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Colston isn't quite an elite fantasy receiver, but just outside that group. His reception totals aren't among the top guys, but he will top 1,000 yards and near double-digit touchdowns. He is a serviceable No. 1 for fantasy teams. | | #56 | Steve Smith (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 554 | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Having Cam Newton as his starting quarterback was one of the best things to happen to Smith's career. Smith topped 1,000 yards for the first time since 2008. He finished with more than 1,300 yards, which was the third time he topped that total in his 11-year career. Smith has six 100-yard games. He was a little up and down in the offense, having fewer than 50 yards five times but had enough big games to make up for some of his down showings. And his erratic performances should be fewer once Newton gets more seasoning in the NFL. Even at age 33, Smith remains one of the top big-play threats in the NFL. He hasn't shown much signs of slowing down just yet. He remains a dependable starter in an emerging offense with big-play ability. Smith is a small target, but has great hands and surprising strength. He just makes plays with the ball in his hands.
Fantasy Outlook:
Smith won't come nearly as cheap this season. He isn't a sure thing from week to week but can have the huge game any given week because of his ability and the offense he plays. Smith should have another 1,000-yard season and eight or so touchdowns. Consider him an elite No. 2 fantasy receiver, capable of producing like a No. 1 many weeks. His consistency knocks his value down a little. | | #57 | Dez Bryant (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 561 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Bryant didn't have quite the breakout season as expected but still posted his best numbers to date. He didn't have a 100-yard game but still almost hit the 1,000-yard mark (928). Bryant had 11 games with 50 or more yards, posting some consistent numbers in the offense. He is the future No. 1 receiver for Dallas and could get more targets this season as he gets on the same page with quarterback Tony Romo. Bryant also is a top red-zone target for the Cowboys, catching nine touchdown passes last season. Bryant has top speed and a knack for making big plays. He also has great hands, giving him the ability to make some spectacular catches. He has natural ability for the position. His route running still needs some work but Bryant continues to make strides.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bryant is ready to take a step forward this season. We think he'll get his first 1,000-yard season and crack double-digit scores. Bryant is worth a look as a top No. 2 or even as a low-end No. 1 fantasy receiver. He has a ton of potential in a good Cowboys passing game. Sure, he competes with some quality options for targets but the Cowboys throw often and Bryant is the most talented receiver on the roster. | | #58 | Vernon Davis (TE) | TDs: 7 Yds: 914 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Despite erratic quarterback play, Davis posted another big season. His touchdown totals were down (seven), Davis still got plenty of receptions (56) and yards (914). Davis had two 100-yard games last season. He has two straight seasons with 900-plus yards. Over the last two seasons, Davis averages 67 receptions for 940 yards and 10 touchdowns. Davis has finally lived up to his potential the last few seasons. Davis should continue to be a huge part of the 49ers offense, especially with a new offense installed this year. His role could increase even more. Davis has the speed of a receiver, but the size of a tight end. He is a great over athlete, making a ton of plays with the ball in his hands as well as making the tough catch in key situations.
Fantasy Outlook:
Davis should continue to be a top-five fantasy tight end. He has the ability for a 1,000-yard season and double-digit scores. You can make a case for Davis being the top overall fantasy tight end this season. He plays in a system that utilizes the tight end often and is a good bet for a lot of touchdowns. You can't go wrong with Davis as your No. 1 tight end in 2011. | | #59 | BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB) | TDs: 13 Yds: 1008 | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Green-Ellis really faded down the stretch last season but his overall numbers didn't look too bad in the end. But his finish to the season is a concern, having less than 25-rushing yards the last five regular season games. He did have four touchdowns during that stretch, though. Green-Ellis rushed for more than 50 yards just six times and had one 100-yard game. He didn't follow up his 1,000-yard season as expected but had 48 fewer carries. He has double-digit touchdowns two straight seasons. Green-Ellis isn't a speed burner, but a solid inside runner and tough to bring down once he gets going. He does a good job of hitting the hole with a head of steam. He isn't much of a receiver, though, having 26 receptions in four seasons. Green-Ellis heads to Cincinnati this season, a team he should split work with Bernard Scott at running back. He also should get the goal-line work for the Bengals.
Fantasy Outlook:
Green-Ellis certainly has touchdown potential but his other numbers will be mediocre for fantasy teams, especially with a move to a less high-powered offensive team. He isn't likely to top 1,000-rushing yards again but could near double-digit scores. Consider him a low-end No. 2 back, especially since if he doesn't score a touchdown, his numbers won't be much of a help for fantasy teams. | | #60 | Willis McGahee (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 377 | Denver | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
McGahee didn't have quite a career season but was close. He hit the 1,000-yard mark for the first time since 2007. He had fewer than 700-rushing yards each of the previous three seasons. McGahee grabbed hold of the starter's job early in the year, though, and never let go. He got plenty of work in the Broncos new run-heavy offense. McGahee had seven 100-yard games and averaged an impressive 4.8 yards per carry, the second highest total of his career. McGahee was a consistent factor in the offense all season long. McGahee has four 1,000-yard seasons in eight years. He does turn 31 shortly after the season starts, but doesn't have a ton of carries under his belt. He has topped 300-plus carries just once and had less than 175 carries the previous three seasons. So he might have a little more life to his legs than a typical 30 year old. McGahee is a powerful back with plus-speed and the ability to make a big play on the outside. He also is a decent receiver, catching 22 or more passes four of eight seasons. He should remain the No. 1 back for the Broncos this season.
Fantasy Outlook:
His lack of scores last year hurt his fantasy value but his yardage totals were better than average. He might be hard pressed to match last season's yardage numbers but his touchdowns could increase as the Broncos' offense should be better. McGahee can get around 1,000 total yards and eight touchdowns, making him a solid No. 2 back for fantasy teams. | | #61 | Matt Ryan (QB) | TDs: 28 Yds: 3706 | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Ryan had his best season to date, getting more chances to throw the ball in the Falcons' offense, an offense that gives Ryan a lot more freedom. Ryan had career highs in yards and touchdowns. It was the first time he topped 4,000 yards and scored 30 touchdowns in an NFL season. Ryan had touchdowns in all but the first game of the season. He had six 300-yard games. Ryan averages 30 total touchdowns to 11 interceptions the last two seasons. With top options at receiver, Ryan should continue to get plenty of chances to throw the ball this season. Ryan is an accurate, intelligent quarterback with a strong arm and the ability to fit the ball in tight spaces. He also has a great grasp of what the Falcons are trying to do offensively, which helps his production. And at age 27, Ryan is entering the prime of his career. If there is a knock on him, it is coming up big in the big game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ryan has become a legit No. 1 fantasy quarterback. His numbers keep getting better and better. He is a top-ten fantasy quarterback. He can at least match last season and maybe get better, getting 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns. | | #62 | Vincent Jackson (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 248 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Jackson had the third 1,000-yard season of his career, giving him three the last four seasons. He was the top big-play threat in the Chargers' offense once again, averaging an impressive 18.4 yards per reception. Jackson had four 100-yard games. He was a little erratic because of his big-play ways, though, having eight games with 50-plus yards and eight with fewer than 50 yards. He can be a little boom or bust. Jackson heads to Tampa this season to serve as their go-to receiver in the offense. He probably isn't as great of a fit for this offense but will get plenty of chances from Josh Freeman. Jackson is a big receiver with good leaping ability and plus speed. He isn't a polished route runner but has improved in this area through the years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson probably will be overvalued some this season. His numbers should regress in a move to a less explosive team. He can still get around 1,000 yards and eight or so scores but don't expect a monster season with his new team. Consider him a top No. 2 more than anything. | | #63 | Matt Schaub (QB) | TDs: 24 Yds: 4370 | Houston | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Schaub suffered a season-ending Lisfranc injury in his right foot during Week 10. He was having a fine season before the injury, having 17 total touchdowns to just six interceptions. Schaub had touchdowns every game and two games with 370-plus yards. Before last season, he had two straight seasons with at least 4,300 yards and 24 touchdowns. Schaub has a strong arm and is very accurate (completed at least 61 percent of his passes six straight years). He throws a great deep ball, which is important with a guy like Andre Johnson on his team. Schaub does have some injury concerns, missing games three of the last five seasons. The Texans are more of a run-first team with some great running backs but they will still take chances in the passing game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Schaub isn't an elite fantasy option but a decent No. 1. As long as he is healthy, he is a good bet for 4,000-plus yards and 25 or so touchdowns. He'll have some big games in this offense. Don't forget about him come draft day because last season ended early. He is in the prime of his career at age 31. | | #64 | Ben Roethlisberger (QB) | TDs: 17 Yds: 3200 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Roethlisberger had his second 4,000-yard season as a pro last year. He only had 21 touchdowns, though, which was low compared to his past few full seasons. Big Ben had five 300-yard games but just five multiple touchdown games. He was held out of the end zone some but moved the ball well with an emerging group of young receivers. This offense should grow more this season, giving Roethlisberger high upside for the coming year. Roethlisberger has two seasons with 4,000-plus passing yards and 28 or more scores. The Steelers are more of a pass-first offense with the emergence of Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. The passing game is the strength of the offense. Roethlisberger has a great arm and is an accurate passer. He might be the best quarterback in the game at prolonging a play because of his size and strength. He also plays through injury.
Fantasy Outlook:
He isn't an elite fantasy option but just outside that group. Consider him a low-end No. 1. Expect his touchdown numbers to improve this season and he should get 4,000-plus yards once again. A season with 30-plus scores wouldn't surprise if the offensive line plays better, which it should. He'll be a serviceable No. 1 for fantasy teams, making him a guy you can get after the top guys are gone. | | #65 | Steve Johnson (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 1073 | Buffalo | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Johnson enjoyed his second straight 1,000-yard season. He had just a 100-yard game but was a consistent No. 1 for the Bills all season. Johnson had 11 of 16 games with 50-plus yards. He was prolific every week but consistent in an improving Bills' offense. In the last two seasons, Johnson averages 79 receptions for 1,039 yards and nine touchdowns per season. Johnson has decent size for the receiver spot. He runs well, makes the tough stretch and is a big-play threat. He does struggle with some key drops at times, but is young enough to improve in that area (26 years old).
Fantasy Outlook:
Johnson isn't an off the charts fantasy receiver but consistent option. He is a top No. 2 for the coming season. His reception and yardage totals just keep him from being a No. 1. Johnson is good for another 1,000-yard, eight-touchdown season in a solid passing game. | | #66 | Jeremy Maclin (WR) | TDs: 10 Yds: 964 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Maclin missed three games with shoulder and hamstring injuries but played at a high level when on the field last season. He had nearly 900 yards, averaging 66 yards per game. He gets his first 1,000-yard season as a pro if he plays a full year. Maclin had three 100-yard games and emerged as the No. 1 receiver in the offense, moving ahead of DeSean Jackson, who was very inconsistent last year. During his three years in the NFL, Maclin averages 63 receptions for 865 yards and six touchdowns per season. He is just 24 years old and should continue to get better and better as a pro. Maclin is a big-play receiver for the Eagles. He has top speed and a knack for making big plays. Maclin is a much improved route runner and does a great job of making plays after the catch. He will continue to start and should serve as the No. 1 receiver in the Eagles pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Maclin should be even better this season. He seems a good bet for his first 1,000-yard season and double-digit touchdowns. He is an emerging fantasy star in a very good offense. Maclin is a top No. 2 fantasy receiver heading into the '12 season. He is close to being a low-end No. 1 but not quite yet with DeSean Jackson and others stealing targets and touchdowns from him. | | #67 | Jonathan Stewart (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 770 | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Stewart had another productive season in a reserve role, topping 1,000 total yards for just the second time in his career. He had the fewest carries of his career (142) but had the most receptions (47), more than doubling his past career best. He made his mark as a receiver for the Panthers. Stewart also averaged a career-best 5.4 yards per carry. Stewart scored just five touchdowns, though, his second lowest total as a pro. He hasn't been finding the end zone quite as much, scoring eight touchdowns the past two years after having double-digit touchdowns each of his first two seasons. Stewart is ready to take over as a full-time starter but DeAngelo Williams is cutting into his workload. As long as Williams is around, Stewart will get fewer touches than he deserves. At just 25 years old, Stewart is in the prime of his career. He is a big back, but has plus speed and the ability to break a big play at any time. And he is making huge improvements as a receiver as evident by his work last season. He does lack a little consistency at times but his sporadic workload probably doesn't help him in this area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Stewart should get more carries this season but still not enough to consider him a surefire No. 2 fantasy back. He remains a No. 3 or flex option. Stewart should have another 1,000 total yard season and score seven or so touchdowns. | | #68 | Jared Cook (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 361 | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Cook found his way in the starting lineup late in the season and showed his potential as a starter for the Titans. He had at least four receptions four of the last six games. He also had 40 or more yards five of those games. Cook has a good chance to be the starter for the Titans from day one this season. He has a lot of potential because of his athleticism. Cook has plus speed and decent hands. He isn't going to help much as a blocker, but catches passes and runs routes like a receiver. He'll need to make strides as a blocker if hopes to maximize his playing time and start for the Titans.
Fantasy Outlook:
The Titans use the tight end often, so Cook has a chance to help fantasy teams this season in an expanded role. It wouldn't surprise to see him get 60 or so receptions for 650 yards and six touchdowns, making him a solid No. 2 or low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. He is a fine sleeper to target late in your draft. He has the upside to breakthrough this season. | | #69 | DeSean Jackson (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1056 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Jackson had a bit of a disappointing season but still had his usual big games and his overall numbers didn't look too bad. He did have the fewest yards since his rookie season, though. He didn't top 1,000 yards for the first time in two years. He had two 100-yard games but failed to top that mark since Week 4. He was once again a big-play threat, averaging 16.6 yards per reception. He did have seven games with fewer than 50 yards, showing his up and down play. Since becoming a pro, Jackson averages 57 receptions for 1,021 yards and five touchdowns per season. Jackson has great speed and the ability to break a big play every time he touches the ball. He also has good hands and does well when getting a chance to carry the ball. The Eagles use him a lot of ways to get him involved, including as a return man. He has a return touchdown three of four seasons in the league. Jackson probably isn't the No. 1 receiver for the Eagles with Jeremy Maclin emerging but he gets plenty of chances in the pass-first scheme.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jackson gets overvalued at times. He has some monster games throughout the year but will disappear at other teams. Plus, he has yet to have double-digit receiving touchdowns any season during his career. He can get 1,000 yards and eight or so scores. Draft accordingly. He is more a top No. 2 than anything. | | #70 | Kenny Britt (WR) | TDs: 9 Yds: 775 | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Britt seemed on his way to a breakout season before getting hurt in Week 3. He tore his ACL and missed the rest of the season. He had back-to-back games with 130-plus yards the first two weeks of the season before getting injured. Britt has two seasons with 700-plus yards but his career high in yardage is 775. He should get the most chances of his career this coming season, though, as long as he is healthy. And his health should be in order with him getting injured so early last season. Britt should be 100 percent for the start of the year. He'll be the No. 1 receiver for the Titans. Britt is a big target that runs good routes and is capable of making a big-play in a hurry because of his top speed. He can take it to another level in a hurry. Britt will struggle with drops at times, but his concentration seems to be improving in this area. The Titans were willing to throw more often last season, which is a good sign for Britt moving forward.
Fantasy Outlook:
Britt has off-the-field concerns but will produce as long as he stays out of trouble. He is capable of huge things. We consider him a low-end No. 1 for the coming year. His knee shouldn't be an issue. Britt can get 1,000 yards and double-digit scores. He is the real deal. | | #71 | Brandon Lloyd (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1448 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Lloyd played in two poor offenses last season (Broncos and Rams) but still finished just shy of 1,000 yards and caught 70 passes, giving him two straight seasons of 70 or more catches. Lloyd had nine games with 50 or more yards, including two games of 100-plus yards. During the last two years, Lloyd averages 74 receptions for 1,207 yards and eight touchdowns per season. He has just three of nine seasons with 700-plus yards but the light has finally come on late in his career. Lloyd is just 31 years old and has plenty of life left in his legs. He moves to the Patriots this season, getting reunited with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels once again. Lloyd won't be the No. 1 receiver in this offense and has plenty to compete with for targets but should be a starter and factor from day one. Lloyd is a top deep threat because of his speed and ability to stretch the field. His route running has really improved the last few seasons, which is the reason his numbers have gone up. Lloyd also has great hands and will make the acrobatic catch.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lloyd is a tough guy to figure for the coming year. You figure he will have some huge games in this offense but he'll also disappear at time with so much to compete with for targets. Even with that said, consider him a solid No. 2. He can get around 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns in this offense. | | #72 | Fred Davis (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 316 | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Davis didn't get as many chances as expected last season, watching Chris Cooley get the majority of the targets at tight end. Davis had 21 receptions after catching 48 passes the previous season. Until Cooley is out of the picture, Davis should have limited work. The Redskins use a lot of two tight end sets, but Davis was targeted just 31 times last season. He should continue to serve as the No. 2 tight end in Washington. Davis is a gifted athlete with good speed and pass-catching ability. He isn't much of a blocker, though, which hurts his playing time some. He has excelled when given a chance to start, but isn't likely finding the starting lineup barring injury.
Fantasy Outlook:
Davis has upside but isn't worth a draft pick. He is worth grabbing if Cooley were to get hurt, though. If that doesn't happen, expect around 30 receptions for 400 yards and a few scores. | | #73 | Reggie Wayne (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1355 | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Like the rest of the Colts' offense, Wayne struggled with Peyton Manning out. Wayne finished with fewer than 1,000 yards for the first time in seven seasons. He also broke a streak of six straight years of 80-plus receptions. His numbers weren't terrible, though, finishing with 75 receptions for 960 yards. He had three 100-yard games and 50-plus yards in 10 of 16 games. He gets a chance to be the No. 1 receiver for a new franchise quarterback this season, serving as the top target for Andrew Luck. The offense could be erratic once again but not near as bad as last season. Wayne is 33 years old and probably played his best football in the past but didn't show many signs of slowing down last season. He remains a dependable, durable receiver. Wayne used to be mostly a top deep threat, but has emerged as one of the better possession receivers in the game. He has great hands and is a top route runner.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wayne can improve on last season but isn't near the fantasy option of past seasons. He can reach 1,000 yards again and get six or seven scores in this offense. Consider him a No. 2 fantasy receiver. We expect him to be more of a help to fantasy teams this season. | | #74 | Andy Dalton (QB) | | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Dalton didn't begin his season as starter but entered the first game of the season and didn't look back, starting the rest of the way. Dalton had a tremendous rookie season. His numbers weren't off the charts but he led the Bengals to the playoffs and played at a high level much of his rookie season. Dalton even made the Pro Bowl. Dalton had 21 total touchdowns to just 13 interceptions. He had touchdowns in all but three games, showing his consistency as starter for the Bengals. He had a few hiccups along the way but didn't have many missteps for a rookie. He should only get better moving forward. The Bengals should take more chances throwing the ball in 2012 after his performance this past season. Dalton doesn't have a huge arm, but he is accurate and does well with hitting his receivers in stride. Dalton is a good fit for the Bengals' offense. He has a good grasp of what the Bengals are trying to do offensively and has already formed a nice rapport with young receiver A.J. Green. Dalton does need to improve his accuracy and decision making some but should get better in those areas with more experience.
Fantasy Outlook:
Dalton is going to be a special player. He probably won't be a huge fantasy producer but a good spot start guy for fantasy teams. He can get around 4,000-passing yards and 25 touchdowns his second season in the league. Consider him a top No. 2 or low-end No. 1 for fantasy teams. He is only going to get better after last season. | | #75 | Stevan Ridley (RB) | | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Ridley got sporadic work his rookie season but was the lead back down the stretch, having double-digit carries the last three games of the season. He ran for 210 yards the last three games, averaging 70 yards per game. For the season, he ran for 441 yards and averaged 5.1 yards per carry. Ridley has a chance to play a big role in the offense from day one this coming season. He could be the starter in New England if the bricks fall his way in 2012. Ridley runs with power but also does well in space. He excels between the tackles as a runner. He isn't much of a receiver, though, as evident by his three receptions last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Even if he starts, that doesn't mean he will get consistent playing time for the Patriots. New England will rotate backs, which is a concern for Ridley. But he has some upside when things are going right for him. He could get around 900 total yards and seven or so scores, making him a solid No. 3 back for fantasy teams. | | #76 | Reggie Bush (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 150 | Miami | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
It probably took longer than expected but Bush finally had that breakout season, performing at a high level as a starting back in the NFL. He hit the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the first time in his career. His previous high in rushing was 581 yards. Bush had a monster season, serving as the lead back much of the year with the Dolphins. He had five 100-yard games, including four straight to end his season. Bush averaged an impressive five yards per carry. He also caught 43 passes, giving him at least 40 receptions all but one season in the NFL. Bush has Daniel Thomas to compete with for carries but should get plenty of work in at least a time share with Thomas in 2012. Bush proved he could start in this league, something he didn't do past seasons. Bush is an explosive back with lightning quick moves and speed. His past consistency issues might be a thing of the past after last season. Bush is a big-time playmaker in the open field. He has struggled with injuries throughout his career, which is a concern at age 27.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bush might be hard pressed to match last season but should get around 1,000 total yards and five to seven touchdowns. He is an even better play in PPR leagues. You can count on him to get 40-plus receptions. Consider him a top flex option for the coming year. Thomas hurts his value some as he should get more work this season, barring injury. | | #77 | DeAngelo Williams (RB) | TDs: 1 Yds: 361 | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Williams didn't have quite the season as expected after signing a big deal in the offseason but still performed pretty well with his touches. He didn't top 1,000-rushing yards but averaged an impressive 5.4 yards per carry, his second highest total of his career. Williams also avoided injury, which has plagued him some in recent seasons. Williams had just one 100-yard game but scored seven touchdowns and finished with just fewer than 1,000 total yards. At age 29, Williams remains a solid starter with big-play ability. He averages 5.1 yards per carry for his career. Williams is a top big-play back. He also will run with some power, but is a home-run threat with the ball in his hands. Williams is a much more patient runner than earlier in his career. He does split work with Jonathan Stewart, which limits his workload from week to week.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams isn't a great fantasy option any more but a low-end No. 2 back. He can help on occasion. It wouldn't surprise to see him better last season but don't expect a big jump in production. He'll have the occasion big game and get around 1,000 total yards and six to eight touchdowns. | | #78 | Antonio Brown (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 167 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Brown started just three games last season but had his first 1,000-yard season as a pro. He had a breakout year, emerging as the top target after Mike Wallace. Brown had three 100-yard games and multiple receptions in all but a game. He was a consistent weekly target for the Steelers and should be the starter from day one this season. The only disappointment for Brown was his touchdown total, scoring just twice last season. Brown projects to be the starter in Pittsburgh for years to come. Brown has top speed and solid hands. He is good at making plays after the catch, showing explosiveness for the big play. He does lack a little strength, but improved on that last season and continues to make strides in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brown won't be a sleeper this year. He is the real deal after a breakout '11 campaign. He can hit that 1,000-yard mark once again and improve on his scores. His big-play ability gives him a chance to break some long scores, so you have to think he can get seven or so touchdowns this season. Consider him a rock solid No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #79 | Brent Celek (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 511 | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Celek saw a big dip in production after having a breakout '09 season. His overall numbers were about half of what he did the previous season. Celek still had some productive games, though, finishing with 42 receptions for 511 yards and four touchdowns. He just didn't get the chances, having 112 targets in 2009 compared to 80 last season. Michael Vick didn't look his way quite as often. But in fairness to Vick, Celek has a lot to compete with for targets in a very good Eagles' offense. Celek remains the top pass-catching tight end for the Eagles. Celek isn't flashy, but runs good routes and has reliable hands. He has big-play ability at tight end. Celek also is a solid blocker, making him an even bigger asset for the Eagles offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Celek will fall in drafts this season and with good reason. He remains a low-end No. 1 but not an elite option with three players likely getting more targets than him for the Eagles. He'll have some big games and likely improve on last season but don't expect another 2009. He could get 60 receptions for 650 yards and seven or so touchdowns. | | #80 | Pierre Garcon (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 784 | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Despite getting erratic quarterback play, Garcon had a career season with the Colts last year. He nearly had 1,000 yards and caught 70 passes. He had some big games, having three games with 125 or more yards and two scores in each of those contests. He averaged an impressive 13.5 yards per reception. During the last two seasons, Garcon averages 69 receptions for 866 yards and six touchdowns per season. He moves to the Redskins this season, a team he should be the No. 1 receiver. Garcon still isn't a polished route runner, but improving in that area. He has great speed and is a top deep threat. Garcon also does a good job of making big plays on shorter routes, using his speed to get by defenders.
Fantasy Outlook:
Garcon has a shot at his first 1,000-yard season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 receiver this season for fantasy teams. Don't expect a monster season with his new team but he'll have some big games and will be worth using on a weekly basis. He can get around 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns, especially if Robert Griffin is able to play at a high level early in his career. Remember, Garcon had Curtis Painter and Dan Orlovsky throwing him passes last year. Griffin is a bit of an upgrade. | | #81 | Santonio Holmes (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 746 | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Holmes had a very disappointing second season with the Jets. He did score eight touchdowns, which tied a career high, but had career lows in yards, yards per reception and had the second fewest receptions. He didn't have a single 100-yard game and had just 654 yards. The entire Jets' offense had their struggles passing the ball, though, which didn't help Holmes. In two seasons with the Jets, Holmes averages 52 receptions for 700 yards and seven touchdowns per season. His numbers aren't likely to go up with Tim Tebow getting work at quarterback and the Jets going with a more run-heavy approach this season. Holmes remains the No. 1 option in the passing game, though. Holmes is a great athlete with top speed. He is a top deep threat capable of making the remarkable catch. His route running and pass-catching is better than earlier in his career, but he will still suffer from the occasional big drop.
Fantasy Outlook:
Holmes is proving to be nothing more than a No. 3 for fantasy teams, especially this season. The one thing that saves him some is his touchdown totals, which should continue to be respectable. You can expect seven to eight scores from him but he won't get you many reception or yards, finishing with around 50 catches for 700 yards. | | #82 | Carson Palmer (QB) | TDs: 26 Yds: 3970 | Oakland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Palmer got his wish, getting out of Cincinnati. He became the starter in Oakland but had a turnover-filled season. He had 16 interceptions to 14 touchdowns. Palmer did have some big passing games but his turnovers marred his season. He had four 300-yard games in 10 games, averaging 275 yards per game. He did seem recovered from past elbow issues, though, which was a positive. He was throwing the ball with a little more zip. Palmer has four seasons with 25-plus touchdowns and two 4,000-yard seasons. He is 32 years old and seems to have plenty of life left as a starter in the NFL. An offseason with the Raiders should help get him acquainted better in the offense. Palmer is an accurate passer with decent arm strength. He can make all throws and has always thrown the deep ball pretty well. He will force some throws, though, and make poor decisions, an area he'll need to really work on this offseason. He has two seasons with 20 interceptions and was picked off 16 times in 10 games last year.
Fantasy Outlook:
Palmer is a good spot starter for fantasy teams. He isn't a surefire No. 1 but capable of that big game, as evident by last year. We don't expect his high number of turnovers to continue this year but he'll have the occasional miscue. The Raiders have some emerging talents at receiver, which could help Palmer's numbers even more. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or top No. 2 for fantasy teams. He can get you 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns. | | #83 | Brandon Pettigrew (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 722 | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Pettigrew had a breakout season his second in the league, catching a career-high 71 passes for 722 yards. He was a huge part of the Lions' offense from day one last season. Pettigrew had at least four receptions in 10 of 16 games. He even had a 100-yard game, showing his big-game potential at the tight end position. Pettigrew wasn't a huge factor in the red zone, though, scoring four touchdowns. The Lions offense is emerging with some promising young talent, and Pettigrew is the second target in the passing game at the moment. He is the complete package at tight end. Pettigrew is a huge tight end with plus hands and top athleticism. His size makes him a tough cover for the opposition. He also is a willing blocker, which helps the Lions rushing attack. He'll be the No. 1 tight end in the Lions offense for the next several years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Pettigrew proved his worth last season and can improve on that if Matthew Stafford is able to stay healthy and he gets a few more looks in the red zone. Pettigrew is a solid No. 1 for fantasy teams. He can get 800 yards and eight touchdowns in this offense, an offense that utilizes the tight end often. | | #84 | Justin Blackmon (WR) | | Jacksonville | Bye: 6 | | | | | #85 | Jay Cutler (QB) | TDs: 23 Yds: 3274 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Cutler had his season cut short to 10 games because of a thumb injury, which required surgery. He played alright before the injury, having 14 touchdowns to seven interceptions. He did complete a career-low 58 percent of his passes but had two 300-yard games and five multiple touchdown games for the season. The offensive line struggled at times, though, which impacted Cutler's play. A new offense could benefit Cutler. The Bears should be more conservative with Mike Martz no longer calling plays, but Cutler could have more time to throw and should be better protected. Cutler has just one 4,000-yard season for his career but 25 or more touchdowns three of the last four seasons. Cutler has a huge arm and does a great job of making plays downfield. He can make all the throws. He will make some poor decisions, though, and force some throws. Cutler also is an unheralded runner. He has 200-plus rushing yards three times in his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
His numbers could improve but he still isn't a No. 1 for fantasy teams. He is a solid No. 2 or spot starter. His touchdown totals won't be good enough to use on a weekly basis for fantasy teams. He can get around 3,800 yards and 25 scores in this offense. | | #86 | Ryan Fitzpatrick (QB) | TDs: 23 Yds: 3000 | Buffalo | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Fitzpatrick had a career season but struggles with turnovers marred an otherwise fine season. He set career highs in completion percentage, yards and touchdowns. Fitzpatrick had eight multiple touchdown games and three 300-yard games. He had a great start to the year (nine touchdowns to three interceptions first three games) but really struggled with turnovers down the stretch. He had multiple interceptions six of his last nine games. He even had three games during that stretch with three or more interceptions. Fitzpatrick needs to cut down on the turnovers if he hopes to remain an NFL starter. He has 3,000-yard seasons two straight years and averaged 24 touchdowns per season during that stretch. Fitzpatrick doesn't have a great arm, but runs well for a quarterback and has a knack for making plays. He has 210-plus rushing yards three of the four seasons. Fitzpatrick doesn't throw a great deep ball and will force some throws, but does a good job of hitting his receivers in stride and knows the Bills' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Fitzpatrick is a top No. 2 quarterback worth some spot starts for fantasy teams. He has a good group of young receivers to work with in an emerging offense. He might not build a whole lot on last season but should at least cut down on the turnovers. He'll get you near 4,000 yards and 25 touchdowns. Plus, you can count on him to run for 200-plus yards, which is an added bonus for fantasy owners. | | #87 | Coby Fleener (TE) | | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | | | #88 | Doug Martin (RB) | | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
The Bucs used a first-round pick on Martin, hoping to find their No. 1 back for the next several seasons. Martin is a more complete back than LeGarrette Blount, a reason he should win the starter's job in Tampa this season. Martin does well between the tackles but also has the speed to break plays to the outside. He isn't a huge back but runs with some power and has good moves in the open field. He also is a good receiver out of the backfield, which is another plus for him to get plenty of playing time. Martin is a pretty complete back for a rookie.
Fantasy Outlook:
Martin might be the most productive rookie fantasy back this season. He'll get plenty of touches in what should be an improved offense. He is definitely worth a flier as a No. 2 back for fantasy teams. His upside is high. The only knock could be a lack of scores as he might not get the goal-line chances. Even with that said, he can finish with about 1,500 total yards and seven touchdowns his rookie season. | | #89 | Isaac Redman (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 247 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | | | #90 | Sidney Rice (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 280 | Seattle | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Rice had his season cut short because of a shoulder injury, which required surgery. He did play a big role in the offense when healthy, though. Rice had two 100-yard games and nearly 500 yards in just nine games. He had a monster season in 2009 but hasn't been able to stay healthy the last two years, battling hip and shoulder injuries. He is just 25 years old, though, so he is young enough to recover and make an impact. He needs to prove he can stay on the field, though. Rice will be the No. 1 receiver for the Seahawks as long as he is playing. Rice is a big receiver with great athletic ability and above-average speed. He also has good hands and isn't afraid to make the tough catch. He is a top big-play threat at receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rice is a risk after the past two seasons but he certainly has upside, proving that last year in the nine games he played. He is worth a shot as a No. 3 fantasy receiver. He could bust out but he also has a chance to post a 1,000-yard season with eight or so scores. Rice is a top boom or bust player for the coming year. | | #91 | Torrey Smith (WR) | | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Smith started all but two games his rookie season. Like many rookies, he was a bit erratic but displayed his big-game ability throughout the season. He had two games with 150-plus yards. In one of those games, Smith scored three touchdowns. He was the big-play threat the Ravens were looking for in their offense. Smith finished with 841 yards and seven touchdowns. He should continue to start this season. Smith could be the No. 1 receiver for the Ravens before long. Smith has elite speed and can stretch the field in a hurry. He still needs some work on his route running to become a complete player. Smith also could stand to get a little stronger to get off the line better. He has pretty good hands, though, and a knack for the spectacular play.
Fantasy Outlook:
Smith is a player on the rise. He can get 1,000 yards and around double-digit touchdowns. He will disappear at times because of his big-play ways but you should be able to live with him as your No. 2 receiver. He is an exciting talent capable of the huge game any given week. | | #92 | C.J. Spiller (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 283 | Buffalo | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Spiller finally found his way into the starting lineup late in the season because of injury and responded with some very good play. He had 100 or more total yards four of his last five games. He also scored five touchdowns during that stretch. He showed his potential in a starting role, proving he is capable of starting in the NFL and succeeding. Spiller averaged an impressive 5.2 yards per carry for the season and set career highs in rushing and receiving, nearly doubling his totals from his rookie season. Spiller will be a part of the Bills' offense from day one in 2012. He'll likely split work with Fred Jackson but should get double-digit touches per game. The Bills want his big-play ability on the field as much as possible. Spiller is the future at running back for the Bills. Spiller can be a dynamic player because of his speed and big-play ability. He does lack the ideal bulk for an every-down back but at least showed last year he can withstand the punishment in a starting role. Spiller also does well as a receiver, catching 63 passes in two seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Spiller rebounded well last season and it looks like his numbers will just continue to improve. It is a concern with Jackson around but Spiller is the more explosive runner. He'll get plenty of chances. A season with 1,000-plus total yards and seven or so touchdowns is very possible. Consider him as a No. 2 back with high upside for the coming year. | | #93 | San Francisco 49ers (Def) | | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | | | #94 | LeGarrette Blount (RB) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1007 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Blount shined at times last season but was more of a disappointment most weeks. Blount did have three 100-yard games but also had seven games with fewer than 50-rushing yards. He didn't follow up his 1,000-yard rookie season as expected, making many wonder if he can start in this league. His inconsistency last season likely cost him the starting job. The Bucs drafted Doug Martin in the first round of this year's draft. He likely bumps Blount from the starting spot in Tampa. This could be a make or break year for Blount even with Martin around. He'll still get his carries. Blounty is plenty young enough to get it going. Remember, Blount had a 1,000-yard rookie season despite starting for about half a season. Blount is a big back but has surprising speed and moves for a big man. His game is power, though. Blount will run over, through and around would-be tacklers. He isn't much of a factor in the passing game, having just 20 receptions in two seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Blount was on his way to stardom but hit a speed bump last season. Don't give up on him yet but he isn't a surefire fantasy back for this coming season, especially with Martin around. Take him as a No. 3 or 4 fantasy back. He still could get the goal-line work and the Bucs' offense should be better, which are two positives for Blount. But he won't play on passing downs and probably won't be the No. 1 back from day one. He could get 600 or 700 total yards and eight touchdowns in this offense. | | #95 | Austin Collie (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 649 | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Collie had similar totals to his first two seasons in the NFL expect for his touchdown totals (one). He caught 50-plus passes for the third straight season and topped 500 yards once again. Collie had multiple receptions in all but two games. He did have just three games with 50 or more yards, though, failing to make many big plays in an offense that really struggled. Collie should be in store for better things with a new quarterback in place. He should continue to play a big role in the offense, serving as the No. 2 or 3 receiver most weeks. Collie isn't going to burn you deep, but runs solid routes and has plus hands. He does a good job of finding a soft spot in the secondary.
Fantasy Outlook:
Collie is worth a look as a reserve late in your draft. He could surprise if the offense shows some signs of life. He certainly has the talent to help fantasy teams. He can get 65 or so receptions for 700 yards and six touchdowns. | | #96 | Michael Floyd (WR) | | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | | | #97 | Tony Gonzalez (TE) | TDs: 6 Yds: 656 | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Gonzalez just keeps chugging along. His stats did take a decent dip last season but he was still a productive tight end in a good Falcons' offense. He caught 70 passes, giving him eight straight seasons with at least 70 receptions. His yardage total (658) was the lowest total since 1998, though. Gonzalez averaged less than 10 yards per reception for the first time in her career. So Gonzalez has lost a little, but not a much for a 35-year old tight end. Gonzalez is a great athlete and an extremely tough cover at tight end. He makes the tough catch in traffic because of his size, but can also outrun defenders because of his speed. He also knows his limitations at this point and plays to his strengths.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gonzalez was just an average No. 1 fantasy tight end for the first time in his career last season. He can still help fantasy teams but his best days are behind him. He is a low-end No. 1 tight end. He'll still get between 60 and 70 receptions but his yard won't be off the charts. He also isn't a huge red-zone threat with the Falcons, catching 12 touchdown passes in two seasons. | | #98 | Jermaine Gresham (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 471 | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Gresham had a productive first season in the league. His numbers weren't off the charts, especially his yardage totals (471), but Gresham got consistent targets in the offense. He caught an impressive 52 passes. He had at least two receptions in 13 of 15 games. Gresham should continue to be a big part of the offense for years to come. He gives the Bengals a legit tight end for the first time in several years. Gresham doesn't have great speed at tight end, but is a top athlete that runs good routes. Gresham is a huge target at receiver and his immense size makes him a top red-zone target. Gresham still needs to work on his blocking, but has made some strides in that area.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gresham is inching close to being a solid No. 1 for fantasy teams. Expect his numbers to increase across the board. He can get 65 receptions for 600 yards and seven or so touchdowns in this offense. Gresham is the real deal and should be a fantasy factor for years to come. | | #99 | Santana Moss (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 1115 | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
A hand injury knocked Moss out of four games last season but he played pretty well when healthy, totaling 46 receptions for 584 yards and four touchdowns. He finishes just shy of 800 if he plays a full season. Moss was a little more inconsistent when playing last year, having four games with 50-plus yards and eight games with fewer than 50 yards. At age 33, his best days are likely behind him. He can still start in this league but he'll have a hard time getting the fifth 1,000-yard season of his career. Moss has seven of 11 seasons with 800-plus yards. Moss is a big-play receiver. He has top speed and can stretch the field in a hurry. He also has improved his shorter routes and is a more dependable option underneath, something he might have to depend on more going forward.
Fantasy Outlook:
Moss can be inconsistent as evident by last season but is capable of that big game any given week. He is worth a late-round gamble because of his past success. He could get 800 or so yards and a few scores in a passing game that should be better this season. | | #100 | Greg Olsen (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 404 | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
As expected, Olsen had a down season with Mike Martz calling plays in Chicago. He had a few big games, but was pretty mediocre much of the season. Olsen had 19 fewer catches and more than 200 less yards than his previous season. His numbers have been pretty similar through the years, though, averaging 49 receptions for 495 yards and five touchdowns. Olsen has two seasons with 50-plus receptions. Olsen heads to the Panthers this season, serving as their No. 1 tight end. He should get a few more targets in a different offense, an offense that will look at the tight end. Olsen is a good athlete at the tight end spot. He has top speed and very good hands, making him a surprising big-play option at tight end. He is just a so-so blocker, though, which causes him to miss out on some playing time at times.
Fantasy Outlook:
Olsen isn't a No. 1 tight end, but just outside that group. It wouldn't surprise to see his stats go up some this season, but not a whole lot. He could get 50 receptions for 500 yards and five touchdowns. Consider him a solid reserve and spot starter for fantasy teams. | | #101 | James Starks (RB) | TDs: 0 Yds: 101 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Starks was the lead back most weeks for the Packers but his overall numbers weren't too impressive in the pass-first offense. He did miss some playing time late in the season with ankle and knee injuries but he had 794 total yards and just a touchdown in 13 games. He averaged 61 total yards per game. The positive was Starks got his chances, having double-digit carries nine times. He also averaged 4.3 yards per carry and caught a career-high 29 passes. He made plays for the Packers. Starks will battle for the No. 1 job again this season. Starks hits the hole in a hurry and has a tendency to make big plays. He also can run with some power because of his size. He isn't a finesse runner. Starks still needs work on making the right read, but is making progress and should get better with another year under his belt.
Fantasy Outlook:
Starks has some upside, but is a bit of a wild card since his numbers weren't great last season despite getting much of the work at running back for the Packers. His ceiling is a bit limited. Starks could get around 1,000 total yards and seven or so touchdowns if all breaks his way this season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 or solid No. 3 for fantasy teams. | | #102 | Pittsburgh Steelers (Def) | | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | | | #103 | Owen Daniels (TE) | TDs: 2 Yds: 471 | Houston | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
It took some time, but Daniels finally got back to health late last season and it showed in his play. He was slowed early in the year, returning from a torn ACL. But to make matters worse, he suffered a hamstring injury that kept him out of several games. He played very well the last four games, though, catching 22 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. His overall season wasn't too bad, considering he played 11 games. Daniels still had 38 receptions for 471 yards. If he plays a full season, Daniels catches 53 passes for 686 yards, which are solid numbers a year removed from major knee surgery. For his career, Daniels has two seasons with 760-plus yards and another year with 70 receptions. He is the top pass-catching tight end for the Texans and one of the best in the league. Daniels runs good routes and has solid hands, making him a nice possession receiver. He gets a lot of chances in the offense and is the second option in the passing game behind Andre Johnson.
Fantasy Outlook:
Daniels is an injury risk (played a full season two times in five years), but his upside is very high. He can finish among the league leaders at tight end in every category. The only knock on Daniels is a lack of scores (career high in touchdowns is five). If his scores were higher, you could make a case for him to be the first tight end taken. But until he starts scoring, consider him a top-five tight end. He can get 70 receptions for 800 yards and five touchdowns in this offense. | | #104 | Jacob Tamme (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 631 | Denver | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Tamme got a chance to start because of an injury to Dallas Clark last season. Tamme grabbed hold of the job Week 8 and never looked back. He had at least four receptions the last 10 games of the season. In those 10 games, Tamme averaged seven receptions for 63 yards. He was a huge part of the Colts' offense, gaining a nice rapport with Peyton Manning. Tamme will head back to his backup job with Dallas Clark healthy this season, but Tamme should be in the mix for playing time after playing at a high level last season. Tamme is a solid receiver with the speed to stretch the field. He plays more like a receiver than a tight end, making him a tough cover for the opposition. Tamme isn't much of a blocker, but he isn't needed to fill that role much in this offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tamme won't match last season, so don't overvalue him. He has some potential, though, even with Clark around. He should get some targets in a pass-first offense. Tamme can get 30 or 40 receptions around 400 yards, making him a low-end No. 2 or solid No. 3 tight end. And you normally don't handcuff a tight end, but Tamme is worth some consideration as a backup if you grab Clark early in your draft. | | #105 | Daniel Thomas (RB) | | Miami | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Thomas produced well at times his rookie season but took a backseat to Reggie Bush, who emerged as a legit No. 1 back for the Dolphins. Thomas still had double-digit carries all but four games he played. He even had a 100-yard game and topped 600 total yards for the season. He scored just a touchdown, though, and failed to have a rushing touchdown all season. Thomas could get a few more carries this season but likely plays behind Reggie Bush once again. Bush is an injury risk, though, so Thomas is a play away from taking over the starting job, a job he seems well suited. Thomas is a big back that runs well between the tackles and does a great job of churning out the tough yards. He has decent moves in the open field, but doesn't have top speed at running back. He isn't much of a home-run threat. Thomas helps in the passing game but more so as a blocker than a receiver.
Fantasy Outlook:
We expect a better season for Thomas, especially his touchdown totals. Bush isn't likely to repeat last season. Thomas is better suited as a starter in this league than Bush. But Thomas should still be considered a No. 3 back for fantasy teams. He might have higher potential than your usual No. 3 back, though. If he gets double-digit touches most weeks, Thomas can get around 1,000 total yards and eight or so touchdowns. | | #106 | Mikel Leshoure (RB) | | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Leshoure suffered a torn Achilles before the start of the season, missing his entire rookie year. He was hurt very early last year, though, and is right on track to be ready for the start of the coming year. He should be practicing without limitations during training camp. As long as he is healthy, Leshoure has a chance to play a prominent role in the Lions' offense. Jahvid Best is no sure thing after his concussion issues last season, meaning Leshoure could shoulder much of the load at running back for Detroit. Leshoure is a big back that does well between the tackles. He can move the pile with his size and strength. Leshoure also does pretty well as a receiver and could blossom in that role with more seasoning. He seems a good fit for the Lions' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Leshoure is a scary pick after last season but he certainly has a lot of upside. Consider him a top No. 3 back for fantasy teams. If he gets the goal-line work, which seems likely, his touchdown totals should be very high. A season with around 1,000 total yards and double-digit score is a real possibility. | | #107 | Joe Flacco (QB) | TDs: 25 Yds: 3622 | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Flacco had another uneven season as starter for the Ravens. He completed a career-low 58 percent of his passes, struggling with his accuracy more than recent seasons. Flacco also had his lowest touchdown total (21) since his rookie year. He did have four 300-yard passing games and six multiple touchdown games. He had three-touchdown games two of his first three to start the year. Flacco has eerily similar numbers the last three seasons, averaging 3,615-passing yards, 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions per season. The Ravens offense has some weapons in the passing game but remain run first with Ray Rice leading the way for the offense. Flacco gets his chances on occasion but can be hit or miss in this offense. Flacco has a top skill set for the position, possessing a strong arm and the ability to move around the pocket well. He seems to lack that "special" quality, though, which keeps him from being an elite signal caller.
Fantasy Outlook:
Flacco took a step backwards last season, which is a concern. He is still young enough to get it going but doesn't seem like he'll ever be an elite fantasy option. He is a capable spot starter and backup. He could near 4,000 yards and score 25 touchdowns if all goes well. He is not a top 10 option, though. | | #108 | Mark Ingram (RB) | | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Ingram had an injury-plagued rookie season. He missed six games, including the last four because of a turf toe injury, which required surgery. He should be just fine for the start of the coming season, though. Ingram did produce in the 10 games played, rushing for nearly 500 yards and scoring five touchdowns. He remains the future at running back for the Saints. Ingram was a little inconsistent last season but had five games with 50-plus rushing yards. He only had double-digit carries six of the 10 games, which hurt his production. He has some competition at running back for carries, cutting down on his weekly touches. Plus, he isn't much of an option in passing situations, limiting him some on this offense. Ingram is a big, physical back capable of moving the pile while running well between the tackles. He is a punishing runner with good vision and the ability to break off some long runs despite just so-so speed. He'll be the No. 1 back in New Orleans but his weekly touches could be sporadic in this offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ingram certainly has potential in this offense, especially for touchdowns. But we don't see him piling up huge yardage numbers. He might near 1,000 yards and score double-digit touchdowns, making him a solid No. 2 back for fantasy teams. Just don't be surprised if he disappears some weeks in this offense, competing for carries with some talented backs. | | #109 | Sam Bradford (QB) | TDs: 18 Yds: 3512 | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Bradford had a second season to forget. He had an ankle injury that slowed him much of the year but even when playing, Bradford had his struggles. He never got going in the Rams new offense, having six touchdowns to six interceptions. He failed to score multiple touchdowns in any game. Bradford did have two 300-yard games but completed 54 percent of his passes after completing 60 percent of his passes during his rookie season. Bradford seemed to take a step backwards. He was hurt, though, and was learning a new offense in a short period of time so he can get it going again. Bradford has to learn a new offense once again but will have more time to do it and will have better pieces to work with in the passing game. He still has the makeup to be a top NFL quarterback. Bradford can make all the throws, is extremely accurate, and moves around the pocket well to make plays. Bradford still needs work reading defenses and getting up to speed with the NFL game. .
Fantasy Outlook:
Bradford can rebound from last season. He'll be in a more of a run-first offense this year but will get chances to make plays. We expect a much better 2012. Consider him a solid No. 2 for fantasy teams. He can throw for 3,500 yards and score 20-plus touchdowns. He is too talented to be kept down in this league. | | #110 | Michael Bush (RB) | TDs: 8 Yds: 655 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Bush got his chance to start much of last season because of injury to Darren McFadden and enjoyed his best season of his career. He proved he could be a legit starter in the NFL. Bush finished with 1,395 total yards and eight touchdowns. Bush had two 100-yard games and topped 100 total yards five times. He did have a few stinker games, though, averaged less than three yards per carry five times. Bush has done well finding the end zone, scoring eight times each of the last two seasons. The concern for Bush is his role. He should be the top backup to Matt Forte, which will limit his work some. The Bears claim they will use more of a timeshare at running back but you should expect Forte to get more work than Bush. The good news for Bush is he could be the goal-line and short-yardage option for the Bears. Bush is a big, athletic back with speed. Injuries have dogged him some throughout his career, but he has been able to stay healthy the past few seasons. Bush also does pretty well as a receiver considering his size. He had a career-high 37 receptions last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bush has upside, but might have a hard time matching last season. He is more of a low-end No. 3 back for fantasy teams. He can get you 900 total yards and eight or so touchdowns, giving him some value for a few spot starts. He is an injury away from being a legit No. 2 fantasy back. | | #111 | David Akers (K) | FGM: 32 FGA: 38 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Akers enjoyed another great season, scoring 143 points. He has three straight seasons with 139 or more points. He made 84 percent of his field-goal attempts, missing just six of 38 attempts. Akers remains an accurate kicker with a strong leg. He will struggle on some really long kicks at this stage of his career (36 years old) and a move to a new offense (49ers) could cut down on some of his chances this season. He has 30-plus field-goal attempts four straight seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Akers will see a dip in production with the 49ers but not enough to make him not worth using as a No. 1 kicker. He can still get around 115 points with the 49ers. | | #112 | Davone Bess (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 820 | Miami | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Bess had a bit of a down season for his standards, failing to get 70 receptions for 700 yards for the first time in two seasons. He did catch 51 passes for 537 yards, which aren't terrible numbers. Bess had multiple catches in all but two games. His yardage totals weren't too impressive, having more than 50 yards just three times all season. He could rebound this season in a new offense that should be more pass heavy. Plus, he might be the top target for the Dolphins with Brandon Marshall gone. Bess doesn't get much work in the red zone (11 touchdowns in four seasons), but he is a top possession receiver. He is less than six foot, but has good hands and runs pretty precise routes. He makes the most of his ability.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bess should have a better season, returning to past numbers for him. We think he can get close to 80 receptions for 800 yards and four scores. He has value as a No. 2 receiver in PPR formats and No. 3 in any other format. | | #113 | Anquan Boldin (WR) | TDs: 7 Yds: 837 | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Boldin missed the last two games of the season with a knee injury but had pretty good numbers before the injury. He could have reached the 1,000-yard mark if he plays those last two games, finishing 123 yards shy of 1,000. He had two 100-yard games and averaged four receptions for 63 yards per game. Boldin was a consistent target for the Ravnes. In two seasons with Baltimore, Boldin averages 61 receptions for 862 yards and five touchdowns. He is more of a possession receiver for the Ravens these days although he showed a little more big-play ability last season. Boldin is a big, strong receiver. He isn't a speed demon, but runs good routes and has solid hands. He is 31 years old, but has taken a lot of punishment through the years, which is a concern going forward. How much does he have left?
Fantasy Outlook:
Boldin won't get you many touchdowns, but will finish with decent reception and yardage totals. Just don't overvalue him based on past seasons. He is going to be good for about 65 catches for 900 yards and five or so touchdowns, making him a low-end No. 2 or No. 3 fantasy receiver. | | #114 | Michael Crabtree (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 741 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Crabtree had his most productive season to date, mainly because of better quarterback play. Crabtree set career highs in receptions and yards. He had at least three receptions in all but three games. He was a consistent factor in the offense for the 49ers. Crabtree had just one 100-yard game but was over 50 yards 10 of 15 games. He'll continue to start in an emerging 49ers' offense. He also will have Randy Moss starting on the other side of him, which could open up things for Crabtree in the middle of the field. Crabtree hasn't lived up to his potential to date but is a big-time talent. Even with Moss around, Crabtree is the No. 1 receiver for the 49ers. He is a pretty polished product despite his young age. Crabtree has plus hands, runs solid routes and is a playmaker. He doesn't have elite speed, but enough to get the job done.
Fantasy Outlook:
Crabtree seems setup for a breakout year. He is a good buy-low candidate after a few mediocre seasons. Crabtree is talented enough to top 1,000 yards and score nine or so touchdowns in an offense that should be more consistent and improved over last season. Take him as a No. 2 and hope for the best. The potential is there for big things from Crabtree. | | #115 | Mason Crosby (K) | FGM: 22 FGA: 28 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Crosby finished with solid point totals once again (112), but continues to struggle with his accuracy. He made 79 percent of his field-goal attempts and missed two kicks of fewer than 40 yards. Crosby is yet to make 80 percent of his kicks during a season. Crosby should continue to get plenty of chances in the Packers' offense, though. He averages 127 points per season for his career. Crosby also has a strong leg, making 10-of-21 field goals of 50 or more yards. Crosby needs to work on his accuracy, but has the makeup to improve. He has a big leg, though, and has missed eight kicks from less than 40 yards for his career.
Fantasy Outlook:
Crosby has proved to be a top fantasy kicker. He has long-distance potential and his point totals are among the best in the game, playing in a great offense. Crosby seems a pretty sure thing to finish with around 120 points. You can't go wrong with Crosby as your No. 1 kicker despite his shaky accuracy. | | #116 | Malcom Floyd (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 717 | San Diego | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Floyd missed four games because of a hip injury but still managed the best season of his pro career. He made a huge impact when playing, serving as the big-play threat in the Chargers' offense. Floyd had four 100-yard games and finished with a career-best 856 yards. He averaged an impressive 19.9 yards per reception, which also was a career high. He has averaged more than 19 yards per reception each of the last two seasons. Floyd has 700-plus yards three straight seasons. He will be a starter in the Chargers passing game opposite Robert Meachem. Floyd is a top big-play threat, using his size and speed to stretch the field. Floyd is a huge target at 6-5 and a top deep threat in the Chargers pass-first offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Floyd flies under the radar at times but he is capable of really helping fantasy teams, especially this season with Vincent Jackson gone. Floyd might be the top option left at receiver. He has 1,000-yard potential for the Chargers. Consider him a legit No. 2 for fantasy teams. | | #117 | Robert Griffin (QB) | | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
The Redskins traded a lot to move up to grab Griffin to be their starting quarterback for the foreseeable future. Griffin is the complete package at quarterback. He has track speed at quarterback, a rocket for an arm and was pretty accurate in college. Griffin really throws a great deep ball. He seems a good fit for the Redskins' offense going forward. It might take him a little time to get up to speed in the pro game but he is a smart enough kid to adjust pretty quickly. He should be the starter from day one this season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Griffin is our top rookie fantasy quarterback for this season. He has a chance to post some big numbers on occasion in what should be a pretty good offense. The Redskins made upgrades at receiver and competed well enough last year without solid quarterback play. He won't be Cam Newton but consider Griffin a solid No. 2 that could be worth some spot starts throughout the season. He can throw for 3,500 yards, run for 400 or so yards and score 25 total touchdowns. | | #118 | Peyton Hillis (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 1177 | Kansas City | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
The Madden Curse struck Hillis last season. He had a down year after his breakout '10 season. Hillis missed six games due to injury but also had his struggles when playing. He did finish the season on a high note, having 100-plus total yards two of the last three games. He finished the year with 717 total yards and three touchdowns in 10 games. Hillis also had his character called into question as some thought he could have played with his injury but sat out because of his contract situation. But when on his game, Hillis can be a solid starting back in this league. He is likely going to be in a time share for the Chiefs this season, though. Jamaal Charles will get much of the work when healthy but he is returning from a major knee injury. The Chiefs will find ways to get Hillis involved in the offense. Hillis is a huge back with surprising quickness and very good hands (83 receptions the last two seasons). He has enough speed to break plays to the outside but also runs well between the tackles because of his size. He has some fumbling and durability issues.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hillis won't get nearly as high in drafts this season and for good reason. He is a good buy-low candidate, though, as the potential is there, especially if he gets the goal-line work. He can near 1,000 total yards and double-digit scores but take him as a low-end No. 2 back or No. 3 come draft day. He is going to be boom or bust. | | #119 | Marcedes Lewis (TE) | TDs: 10 Yds: 700 | Jacksonville | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Lewis had a career season, setting career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He was the top threat in the Jags' passing game. Lewis had just seven touchdowns heading into the season but managed to score 10. He was a big-time red-zone threat. Lewis didn't have many big yardage games, but he was consistent, getting at least two receptions in every game last season. He also had three two-touchdown games. Lewis had 700 yards after having a previous career high of 518. His yardage numbers have increased every season in the league. At 27 years old, Lewis is in the prime of his career. Lewis is a big target with speed and athleticism. He is an ideal fit for the red zone because of his size and leaping ability. He should continue to start for the Jags the next several seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Lewis emerged into a legit No. 1 fantasy tight end last season. It wouldn't surprise to see his numbers dip some, but expect them to remain low-end No. 1 tight end numbers. He can get 650 yards and near double-digit scores. Lewis is a guy that can help fantasy teams but be had later in your draft. | | #120 | Robert Meachem (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 638 | San Diego | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Meachem wasn't quite as productive last season as he was the previous two seasons but his numbers were respectable. He had his third straight season with 40-plus receptions for 600-plus yards. Meachem had a 100-yard game and six touchdowns for the season. He averaged 15.5 yards per reception, displaying his big-play ability once again. Meachem heads to San Diego this season, a team he should play a bigger role in the offense. He should be the starter from day one and serve as the big-play threat in the offense, having a similar role to the departed Vincent Jackson. Meachem is a big receiver with top speed and the ability to stretch the field in a hurry. He still doesn't have the best hands, though, and his route running isn't always crisp.
Fantasy Outlook:
Meachem is setup for a breakout season. He is a perfect fit for the Chargers' offense and is a candidate for his first 1,000-yard season. We consider him a No. 2 fantasy receiver for the coming year. His big-play ability can net him plenty of yards and scores in this offense. | | #121 | Lance Moore (WR) | TDs: 8 Yds: 763 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
A hamstring injury knocked Moore out of a couple games but he had his usual productive season with the Saints last year. He caught 52 passes for 627 yards and eight touchdowns. He didn't have a 100-yard game but six games with 50 or more yards. In the last two seasons, Moore averages 59 receptions for 695 yards and eight touchdowns per season. He is a great fit for the No. 3 receiver spot for the Saints, a role he should continue to fill this season. Moore is a consistent, dependable receiver in the Saints' pass-first offense. Moore isn't a big receiver, but is very fast and has good hands. He makes plays with the ball in his hands and seems to have a knack for finding the end zone.
Fantasy Outlook:
Moore is a solid low-end No. 3 or 4 receiver for fantasy teams. He'll finish with good reception and touchdown totals for the receiver spot. He is overlooked at times but a consistent fantasy option in a good offense that finds the end zone fairly regularly. Moore should get you 60 or so receptions for 700 yards and around eight touchdowns. | | #122 | Green Bay Packers (Def) | | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | | | #123 | Pierre Thomas (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 269 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Thomas produced solid numbers in a reserve role for the Saints last season. He was the No. 3 or 4 back most weeks but still managed 987 total yards, which was the second highest of his career. And most notably, he made it through a full season without injury, which is something that has plagued him the last few seasons. Thomas set a career high in receptions with 50. He was a huge factor in the passing game, getting many chances to serve as a third-down back. Thomas has been in the league five years but is just 27 years old. He is in the prime of his career. He has proved in the past he can start in this league but likely won't get that chance, serving a reserve role this season. Thomas isn't a huge back, but has good speed and moves. Thomas also can run with a little power and is a more than capable receiver. He does have durability concerns, playing a full season for the first time last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Thomas kind of flew under the radar last season but he produced with his chances. He might have a hard time matching that this season but remains worth a late-round pick come draft day. He can shine when getting his chances. A season with 800 total yards and five or so scores seems likely for Thomas, making him a low-end No. 3 or top No. 4 fantasy back. | | #124 | Mike Tolbert (RB) | TDs: 11 Yds: 735 | Carolina | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
With Ryan Mathews emerging as a legit NFL starter, Tolbert got a few less chances last season. He did get plenty of touches, though, and set career highs in receptions. Tolbert ran for 490 yards after rushing for more than 700 the previous season. He did have a career-high 53 receptions for 433 yards. He got most of the work on passing downs because of his blocking ability and pass-catching skills. Tolbert also scored 10 touchdowns, giving him 21 touchdowns the last two seasons. He excels as a short-yardage back. Tolbert is a pretty complete back. His new team, the Panthers, should find plenty of ways to use Tolbert this season (i.e. fullback, third-down specialist, etc.). Tolbert has very good size, but has some burst and does well at hitting the hole in a hurry. He isn't going to run away from a ton of defenders, but can do well in spurts. His lack of big-play ability will hurt his chances to be an every-down back but he does well in splitting time at running back.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tolbert's touchdown potential helps his fantasy value. He won't get a ton of total yards but his ability to catch the ball helps his value in PPR leagues as well. He can get 800 total yards and around double-digit scores. Consider him a No. 3 fantasy back. | | #125 | Kendall Wright (WR) | | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | | | #126 | New England Patriots (Def) | | New England | Bye: 9 | | | | | #127 | Stephen Gostkowski (K) | FGM: 10 FGA: 13 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Gostkowski injured his quad and missed the second half of last season. He had a few struggles before the injury, making 77 percent of his field-goal attempts. He made 2-of-4 attempts of 40-plus yards. Gostskowski had three double-digit point games, though, playing in the explosive Patriots' offense. He has 125 or more points the previous three seasons. Gostkowski has a strong leg and is a fairly accurate kicker (84 percent made for his career). And the Patriots have a great offense, giving Gostkowski a few more chances than your average kicker.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gostkowski is a safe choice at kicker. He gets a lot of chances and plays in a great offense. The only knock on Gostkowski is won't get you a ton of long-distance kicks (four field goals of 50-plus yards in five seasons). He is a top-five option come draft day, though, because of his consistent point production. | | #128 | Chicago Bears (Def) | | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | | | #129 | Sebastian Janikowski (K) | FGM: 33 FGA: 41 | Oakland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
It took several seasons but Janikowski had a monster season last year, scoring a career-high 142 points. He made 81 percent of his field-goal attempts, including 4-of-7 from 50-plus yards. He has made 10 field goals from 50 or more yards the last two seasons. Janikowski had less than 100 points five straight seasons before last year. He got a lot of chances last year for both field goals and extra points, which led to his big point total. The Raiders' offense is turning the corner, which should help the production of Janikowski. He has struggled with accuracy through the years, but seems to finally be making some strides. Janikowski has a booming leg and makes as many long distance kicks as any kicker in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Janikowski finally reached his potential last season. Will he repeat that season? Probably not, but he can be a top fantasy kicker in an improving offense. He'll get you some long-distance kicks and his point totals should be solid - around 115 or so. This isn't the Sebastian Janikowski of past seasons. He is turning the corner. | | #130 | Kellen Winslow (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 730 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Winslow saw his stats dip a little his second season in Tampa, but he still produced solid numbers. He had at least 66 receptions for the fourth time in five seasons. He had five games with 50-plus yards and at least two receptions in all but one game. His reception and yardage totals were the lowest since playing a full season in the NFL, though. Winslow had a little more to compete with for targets with some youngsters emerging in the Bucs' offense. In his four full seasons, Winslow averages 79 receptions for 899 yards and five touchdowns. Winslow has a history of knee issues, which is a concern, but for now, he seems pretty healthy. Winslow has good speed and can run routes like a receiver. And his size makes him tough to bring down in the open field. He is one of the top tight ends in the game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Winslow isn't an elite tight end, but he'll get you good reception and yardage totals. Those numbers will be among the top 10 onf all fantasy tight ends. Unfortunately, Winslow doesn't score much (five touchdowns is his career high), which really puts a damper on his value. Consider him a low-end No. 1 tight end for the coming season. | | #131 | Zach Miller (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 685 | Seattle | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Miller missed a game and had fewer than 10 yards in four others, but had another productive season as the starting tight end in Oakland. Miller finished with 60 receptions, giving him at least 60 catches two straight seasons. He had a 100-yard game and eight games with four-plus receptions. His yardage totals were down some, though, having 685 yards. Miller had more than 770 yards each of the previous two seasons. Miller did score a career-high five touchdowns last season. He had just seven touchdowns going into the season. Miller heads to Seattle this season, a team he'll start for at tight end but could get a few less looks in an offense that doesn't utilize the tight end a whole lot. Miller is a gifted athlete with plus hands. He also has good speed for the position and blocks pretty well.
Fantasy Outlook:
He still lacks touchdown potential, which keeps him from being an elite option at tight end. Miller is a low-end No. 1, though, despite the lack of scores. He is a pretty good bet to get 60-plus receptions for 650 or so yards. If the Seahawks' passing game suddenly took a big step forward, which isn't likely, Miller could take his game to a new level. | | #132 | Dallas Clark (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 347 | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Clark was on his way to another huge season, but played just five games because of a wrist injury. He required surgery on the wrist, which was an unusual injury that will take some time to rehab. But Clark should be ready for the start of the '11 season. Clark was his usual spectacular self before getting hurt. He had a double-digit reception game and touchdowns three of six games. Clark has double-digit scores two of the last four seasons and a 1,000-yard season in 2009. Clark is 32 years old and has a bit of an injury history, but remains the No. 1 tight end in the explosive Colts' offense. Clark is a fast, athletic tight end and a good route runner. He is a favorite target of Peyton Manning and knows the offense as well as any player on the roster. Clark has a knack for making big plays, especially in the red zone.
Fantasy Outlook:
Clark has the most potential as any fantasy tight end, which is why we are ranking him first. He might be the only elite option that can top 100 receptions, 1,000 yards and double-digit scores. You won't find a more consistent tight end in the game. His wrist injury is a concern, giving his injury history, but it is tough to ignore his potential when playing. | | #133 | Jahvid Best (RB) | TDs: 4 Yds: 563 | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Best suffered a season-ending concussion Week 6. He has a history of concussion issues and this is a big concern going forward. His future seems a little murky right now. Best did play pretty well before suffering the concussion, though. He had 677 total yards and three touchdowns in six games. He was on his way to a breakout season. Best was much improved as a runner than his rookie season, averaging 4.6 yards per carry after averaging just 3.2 the previous year. As long as he is healthy, Best should shoulder much of the load at running back for the Lions. His smallish stature is a concern, which could limit his touches some, but he played his entire rookie season before getting hurt last year. Best has top speed and does a great job of hitting the hole. Best sets up his blocks well, making a lot of big plays in both the rushing and passing game. He is a very good receiver, having 85 receptions in two seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Best is a risk because of his concussion issues. He is going to be a boom or bust pick. He certainly has the potential for huge things in this offense, which makes him intriguing for fantasy teams. If healthy and playing a full season, Best could get 1,600 total yards and eight to 10 touchdowns. But you can't draft him on that potential. Consider him a top No. 3 back and hope he comes back healthy. | | #134 | Ben Tate (RB) | | Houston | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Despite starting just a couple games, Tate ran for nearly 1,000 yards last season. He showed his big-time potential in this running game. Tate had four 100-yard games and averaged a very impressive 5.4 yards per carry. He made a lot of big plays in the running game, serving as the top backup to Arian Foster. Tate had double-digit carries eight times. His playing time will be a little sporadic with Foster entrenched as starter but Tate will get his work because of his talent. The Texans will try to get him around 10 touches per game. Tate is a good fit for the Texans offense. He is a one-cut runner that hits the hole in a hurry and can get to the next level with little effort. Tate also has good size, giving him the ability to run over would-be tacklers.
Fantasy Outlook:
Tate is a must handcuff for Foster owners but you'll need to act a little earlier than normal for this handcuff. Tate is a legit No. 3 fantasy back. He might have a hard time matching last year if Foster is healthy all year but he can still get 800 or 900 total yards in a reserve role. He could get five or so touchdowns. | | #135 | Donald Brown (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 497 | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Brown had his best season as a pro, finding his way into the starting lineup much of the second half of the season. He ran for 161 yards in Week 15 and had 70 or more rushing yards three times. He averaged 4.8 yards per carry for the season, which was the first time in his career he averaged more than four yards per carry for a season. Brown still lacked some consistency last season and his overall numbers weren't too impressive given the playing time. He didn't cement his spot in the starting lineup with his showing but helped his case for playing time in 2012. Brown has good speed and moves in well in space. He still doesn't have ideal size, hurting his chances some as an every-down back. He catches the ball well, though, and made strides overall in his play.
Fantasy Outlook:
Brown might have a hard time repeating last season. We doubt he gets that many chances once again. Brown could get 500 or so total yards and a few scores, making him a deep reserve for fantasy teams. | | #136 | Dustin Keller (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 687 | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Despite having more options to compete with at receiver for targets, Keller enjoyed his best season to date last year. He set career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He finished with just fewer than 700 yards. Keller had four games with 75 or more yards and even enjoyed a 100-yard game. He scored his five touchdowns the first four games of the season. Keller failed to score the rest of the season. Keller has been a consistent No. 1 tight end for the Jets, averaging 49 receptions for 581 yards and three touchdowns per season since entering the league. Keller has plus speed for the tight end spot and very good hands. He has a good feel for finding the soft spot in the middle of the field. He is improving as a blocker, but still lacks some in that area. He is a favorite target of Mark Sanchez, which gets him plenty of weekly targets.
Fantasy Outlook:
Keller has become a low-end No. 1 tight end. He isn't among the top options but a decent starter after taking his game to a new level last season. His lack of scores remains a concern, but he can get 60 catches for 700 yards in this offense. Take him off the top guys are off the board but don't feel too bad about having him as your No. 1 tight end after you load up on other positions. | | #137 | Josh Freeman (QB) | TDs: 25 Yds: 3451 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Freeman took a step back last season, seeing his numbers take a dip from his breakout '10 season. Sure, he threw for a few more yards and completed his passes at a little higher of a percentage but his interceptions were up and his touchdowns were down. Freeman threw 22 interceptions compared to just six the previous season. Freeman had seven games with multiple interceptions. He did manage to score 20 total touchdowns, though, having six multiple touchdown games and hit the 300-yard mark twice. Freeman is just 24 years old and has plenty of time to get things turned around from last season. He needs an upgrade at talent at receiver if he hopes to get his game going again. The Bucs lack some playmakers, which limits Freeman some. He forced a lot more passes last season as a result. Freeman is very talented. He has a great arm, can make plays with his feet and has the size and strength of Ben Roethlisberger. He can be erratic at times, but has shown in the past he can improve on that area of his game. He has the makeup of a premier NFL quarterback.
Fantasy Outlook:
Don't give up on Freeman just yet. His '10 season wasn't a fluke. We wouldn't consider him a No. 1 but a top backup capable of some spot starts for fantasy teams. He is another good buy-low candidate for fantasy teams. If he gets it going, which is very possible, he is capable of throwing for 4,000 yards and scoring 25 or so touchdowns. He has big potential. | | #138 | Alex Smith (QB) | TDs: 14 Yds: 2370 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Smith had a career season, setting career highs in completion percentage (61), yards (3,144) and total touchdowns (19). He also had a career low in interceptions, throwing just five all season. Smith had an impressive 90.7 quarterback rating. His numbers weren't gaudy, though, managing the offense well while limiting turnovers. He had nine games with less than 200 yard and didn't hit the 300-yard mark all season. Smith did what the 49ers asked of him, though, and won a lot of games. He should continue to start for San Francisco this season but second-year quarterback Colin Kaepernick is the future at the position for the 49ers. If Smith has any stumbles, he could find his way on the bench in a hurry. Smith has topped 3,000 yards just once during his career but does have 15-plus scores three times. Smith has a big arm, moves around the pocket pretty well and will make plays running the ball (179-rushing yards last season). His accuracy is improving and he is limiting turnovers. The 49ers are a run-first, conservative team but seem to have more confidence in Smith, which could lead to more chances for him in 2012.
Fantasy Outlook:
His numbers can improve on last season but that still doesn't mean he'll be a huge help to fantasy teams. He might be worth a spot start in the right matchup. He just doesn't post huge numbers. A season with 3,500 yards and 20 or so scores are possible in a maturing offense, but those numbers are far from off the charts for fantasy teams. | | #139 | Christian Ponder (QB) | | Minnesota | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Ponder didn't open his rookie season as starter but took over as starter about halfway through the season. He had his ups and downs but flashed some positives along the way. Ponder had 13 touchdowns to 13 interceptions and threw for nearly 2,000 yards in 11 games. Ponder had a 300-yard game and multiple touchdowns five of 11 games. He did have fewer than 200 yards seven games, though, so he wasn't without his poor performances. Ponder is a young quarterback and will get better. He is the future at the position for the Vikings and the likely starter from day one this season. Ponder doesn't have a big arm, but is accurate and intelligent. He does need to improve his decision making and accuracy after last season but has the intangibles to do well in this league. He'll also make plays with his legs as evident by his 219-rushing yards last season.
He seems a good fit for a West Coast offense, which is something the Vikings have run in past seasons. Ponder won't make a ton of plays downfield, though, and has a tendency to force some passes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ponder is a nice sleeper for fantasy teams. Don't expect him to be a legit No. 1 but he can be a top backup for fantasy teams. The potential is there for good things. He showed a knack for the big game last season. It wouldn't surprise to see him top 3,500 yard and score around 25 touchdowns. | | #140 | Andrew Luck (QB) | | Indianapolis | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Luck has the fun task of replacing Peyton Manning in Indianapolis. He was the first overall pick in the draft and as highly touted of a rookie quarterback in a long time. Luck has a chance to be a good one. He is a cerebral quarterback that is very accurate and seems to know his limitations even at a young age. Luck doesn't have a huge arm but it is strong enough for the pro game. The issue for Luck might be his surrounding talent, which isn't very good. This could stunt his growth to start his career. He'll be the starter from day one, though, and will be the top quarterback in Indy for years to come.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rookie quarterbacks can certainly make an impact these days but not sure Luck will be one of those guys. The Colts just aren't very good. He is definitely worth a pick in dynasty leagues but should be considered a low-end No. 2 in re-draft leagues. He could get around 3,300 yards and 20 scores in what could be a long season for him. | | #141 | Danny Amendola (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 689 | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Amendola dislocated his elbow the first game of the season and missed the rest of the year. He caught five passes for 45 yards in his one game. Amendola had 85 receptions the previous season, finishing among the league leaders in receptions. He should be the top possession receiver for the Rams this season. He is a great safety net for quarterback Sam Bradford in the passing game. Amendola lacks size, but has good quickness and great hands. He runs good routes and is tough as nails for a player of his size. Amendola just moves the chains for the Rams. Amendola also is a good special teams performer, likely serving as both the punt and kick returner for the Rams this season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Amendola is a much better get in PPR leagues, but not much of an option outside of those. His yardage and touchdown totals won't be too impressive (just four touchdowns in three seasons). Amendola can get 70 receptions for around 600 yards and a couple scores for the Rams. Draft accordingly. | | #142 | Dan Bailey (K) | | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | | | #143 | Cedric Benson (RB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1111 | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Benson was his usual self last season. He isn't flashy but produces solid weekly numbers. He hit the 1,000-yard mark for the third straight season. He had at least 13 carries every game and averaged 3.9 yards per carry, his second highest mark in four seasons with the Bengals. Benson had three 100-yard games and at least 50-rushing yards in all but a game. In the last three seasons, Benson averages 1,143-rushing yards and seven touchdowns. Benson is 29 years old and has more than 300 carries in a season twice but for the most part, his workload isn't too high for a back of his age. He didn't get a ton of work early in his career. He remains a decent NFL starter. Benson doesn't have great speed, but runs with power and has good moves for his size. Benson can also do alright in the passing game, catching 15 or more passes five straight seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Benson isn't an elite back by any means but a more than serviceable No. 2 back. He'll get consistent yardage numbers on a weekly basis. The touchdown totals aren't there, though, which hurts his value. Don't expect a huge surge in production at this stage of his career. His numbers likely will be similar to the last few seasons. If all goes well, he could get around 1,300 total yards and seven or eight touchdowns. | | #144 | Steve Breaston (WR) | TDs: 1 Yds: 718 | Kansas City | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Breaston didn't post huge numbers during his first season with the Chiefs but was a productive starter opposite Dwayne Bowe. He had at least two catches in all but two games and finished with nearly 800 yards, having his second best career total for yards. He also caught 61 passes, which also was the second best total of his career. Breaston had seven games with 50 or more yards. He also had a 100-yard game. He should continue to start for the Chiefs unless second-year receiver Jon Baldwin comes on strong this offseason and training camp. Breaston is a big-play receiver, averaging over 13.4 yards per reception for his career. He separates in a hurry, but also has improving hands and his route-running is getting much better. He proved last season he could be more of a possession receiver if needed.
Fantasy Outlook:
Breaston isn't a very exciting fantasy option, especially with his two touchdowns last season, but he can help fantasy teams. If the Chiefs get better quarterback play, which they should, Breaston could improve his numbers from last season. He could get 800 or so yards and five scores in this offense, making him a guy to consider as a low-end No .3 or No. 4 fantasy receiver. | | #145 | Nate Burleson (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 625 | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Burleson enjoyed one of his better seasons as a pro, setting a career high in receptions with 73. His 757-receiving yards also were the third highest of his career. He didn't have a 100-yard game but seven games with 50-plus yards. He got pretty consistent work in a very good Lions passing game. In two seasons with the Lions, Burleson averages 64 receptions for 691 yards and five touchdowns per season. He could lose out on more playing time this year, though, with second-year receiver Titus Young emerging in the offense. Young could take Burleson's starting spot in the offense. Burleson has just one 1,000-yard season for his career, but has topped 600 yards four of the last five years. Injuries have derailed Burleson some, but he has been pretty healthy the past few seasons. Burleson isn't a speed burner, but has decent hands and runs solid routes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Burleson probably won't top last season with Young around. He could still get around 700 yards and a few scores in a very good offense. Consider him a No. 4 or 5 fantasy receiver. He isn't going to have a sudden breakout, huge season. | | #146 | Dallas Cowboys (Def) | | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | | | #147 | Philadelphia Eagles (Def) | | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | | | #148 | Jacoby Ford (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 470 | Oakland | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
A foot injury knocked Ford out of several games but his production on the field was sporadic when playing. He had 279 yards in eight games. He had a 100-yard game, which accounted for nearly half of his yardage total. Needless to say, he was pretty quiet in the other seven games. Ford continues to be an elite kick returner, though, averaging 31 yards per kick return last season. He also returned a kick for a touchdown, giving him four in two seasons. Ford won't play a huge role as a receiver but will get some work at receiver in a reserve role. His biggest asset probably remains as a kick returner. Ford is an explosive talent. He still isn't a great route runner, but has improved some. His speed and athleticism make him a top deep threat. He has track speed and great moves in space.
Fantasy Outlook:
Ford will have some big games and could set career highs but don't expect him to be much help to fantasy teams. He could get 500 or so yards and a few scores. He'll be too hit or miss to help fantasy teams throughout the season. | | #149 | Toby Gerhart (RB) | TDs: 1 Yds: 322 | Minnesota | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Gerhart found his way into the starting lineup late in the season after Adrian Peterson suffered a torn ACL. Gerhart did pretty well in a starting role, having 90 or more rushing yards three of the last five games. He even had a 100-yard game during that stretch, rushing for 109 yards in Week 16 against the Redskins. Gerhart set career highs across the board, topping 500-rushing yards for the first time in his career. He also averaged a solid 4.9 yards per carry. Gerhart proved he could start in the NFL and be a productive back. He could get a little more work to start this coming season with Peterson eased back into action after his major knee injury. Peterson is the top back in this offense as long as he is active, though. Gerhart lacks breakaway speed, but is a very good between the tackles runner that does well in finishing his runs. He isn't a bad receiver out of the backfield or blocker, which helps his case to find the field. Gerhart might not be the best athlete on the field, but he is a gamer.
Fantasy Outlook:
Gerhart is the handcuff for Adrian Peterson, so he has some fantasy value in a good Vikings rushing attack. He could produce decent numbers as a No. 2 or 3 back if he happens to get some starts. Gerhart has a little more value this year with Peterson returning from injury. He could get a few more touches early in the year. Expect similar numbers to last year - about 500 yards and a few scores | | #150 | New York Giants (Def) | | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | | | #151 | Alex Green (RB) | | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Green suffered a torn ACL in Week 7, ending his rookie season early. Green had just three carries in four games before the injury. He is expected to play a bigger role as long as he is healthy this coming season. The Packers still hope he can turn into the starter for their team in the near future. Green could be more of a third-down back this season as he comes back from a major knee injury. Green is a good pass catcher and has top moves in the open field. He doesn't lack size, but doesn't run with a lot of power, which is why he might need to change his game/physique if he hopes to be a starter in the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Green is worth a late-round flier. He has the potential to be a solid performer in this offense. Green could get 30 or 40 receptions in his current role. A season with around 600 or 700 total yards and a few scores seems possible his second season in the league. | | #152 | Leonard Hankerson (WR) | | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Hankerson played all of four games his rookie season. He suffered a torn labrum in his right hip. The good news on the injury was it didn't require surgery and he should be just fine for the coming year. In fact, Hankerson is in line to start for the Redskins. He played well in his four games his rookie season, catching 13 passes for 163 yards. He had a 100-yard game his last of the season, catching eight passes for 106 yards against the Dolphins in Week 10. Hankerson has good size and athleticism. He isn't a speed guy, but runs solid routes and will make the tough catches in traffic. And while he isn't a burner, he is a big target that can stretch the field because of his size and strength. He makes plays downfield. As mentioned, he should be the starter from day one this season for the Redskins.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hankerson is ready for a breakout season. He will start and could emerge as the top target for new quarterback Robert Griffin. It wouldn't surprise to see him near 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns, making him worth a look as a No. 2 fantasy receiver. He is a high upside player for the coming season. | | #153 | Stephen Hill (WR) | | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | | | #154 | Brandon Jacobs (RB) | TDs: 9 Yds: 823 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Jacobs had a so-so season for the Giants, finishing with his lowest yardage totals since 2006. And he even got some starts because of injury. Jacobs had double-digit carries six times and had a 100-yard game. He averaged just 3.8 yards per carry, though, which was a low total compared to past seasons for him. Jacobs did manage to score seven touchdowns, giving him seven or more scores three of the last four seasons. Jacobs has two 1,000-yard seasons for his career but has fewer than 900-rushing yards each of the last three seasons. He turns 30 before the start of the season, which is a concern, especially given his production the last few seasons. Jacobs is best suited as a backup or platoon player at this stage of his career, a role he should serve with the 49ers. Jacobs is a big, bruising back with decent speed and the ability to run over would-be tacklers. Jacobs also has quick feet, which enables him to break some long runs despite his big size. He does tend to try to break too many plays to the outside, which normally results in bad results as he doesn't have the speed to turn the corner often.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jacobs is worth a reserve spot for fantasy teams, especially because of his touchdown potential in what should be a pretty good offense. He could get 700 total yards and around double-digit touchdowns. He isn't going to post big weekly numbers in a reserve role, though. And even if he gets some starts, he proved last season he only has value as a low-end No. 2 back or flex option. | | #155 | A.J. Jenkins (WR) | | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | | | #156 | New York Jets (Def) | | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | | | #157 | Felix Jones (RB) | TDs: 1 Yds: 800 | Dallas | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Jones was the starter to open the season but saw rookie DeMarco Murray move past him on the depth chart. Jones did produce when starting but is destined for a backup role with Murray around. Plus, Jones battled injury again last season, showing he has a hard time staying healthy in a starting role. These factors make Jones the top backup to Murray in Dallas. Jones did produce in the 12 games he played last season. He had three 100-yard games and averaged a solid 4.5 yards per carry. He had some big games in a starting role, averaging 66 total yards per game. Jones scored just a touchdown last season and has nine scores in four seasons. Jones is 25 years old and in the prime of his career. Jones is a home-run threat every time he touches the ball and is as fast as any back in the game. Jones isn't the biggest back, though, which lends him to getting nicked up from time to time. He is a plus receiver, catching an impressive 102 passes in four seasons. He seems best suited as a change-of-pace back in the Cowboys' offense.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones has some total yardage potential even in a reserve role but his lack of scores hurts his fantasy value. He might be worth a look as a low-end No. 3 or No. 4 back for fantasy teams. Jones can get 900 or so total yards and a few scores. | | #158 | James Jones (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 679 | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Jones had another productive season serving as a reserve for the Packers. He topped 600 yards for the second straight season. He played every game and had a 100-yard game but also went without a reception two games. Jones was no sure thing as a reserve in an offense that likes to spread the ball around to a host of options. He did have a career-best seven touchdowns, though. Jones has at least 600 yards three of five seasons in the NFL. Jones will get his chances in the Packers' pass-first offense, but not as much as Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson. Jones has decent quickness, but runs good routes and has above-average hands. He also does well in making the tough catch, but he will drop some passes.
Fantasy Outlook:
Jones hasn't ascended quite as expected. He still has weekly potential, but isn't likely to be a big help to fantasy teams. He'll be too inconsistent. Another season with 600 or so yards and five touchdowns seems likely for Jones unless injury hits. If that happens and he takes over a starting role, Jones will be worth a weekly play. | | #159 | Johnny Knox (WR) | TDs: 5 Yds: 960 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Knox had a little bit of an up and down season. He had some big games but also disappeared in others. He wasn't too consistent but his overall numbers didn't look too bad in the end. He had more than 700-receiving yards and caught 37 passes. In the last two seasons, Knox averages 44 receptions for 844 yards and four touchdowns per season. He will compete for a starting spot this season but nothing is guaranteed with a new offensive coordinator, a coordinator that should be a lot more run heavy. Knox could see a decrease in playing time with the Bears using more two-receiver sets. Knox has blazing speed and big-play ability. He does a great job of making a big play out of a short catch (16.6 yards per reception for his career). Knox also has plus hands and his route running continues to make strides.
Fantasy Outlook:
Knox seems setup for a down season. We just don't see an increase in targets. He'll still have some big games because of his big-play ability but he'll be inconsistent. A season with 500 or 600 yards and a few scores seems about right for Knox this year. He is a deep reserve for fantasy teams. | | #160 | Greg Little (WR) | | Cleveland | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Little was the top receiver for the Browns his rookie season. This isn't saying much but his numbers were pretty good despite playing in an erratic passing attack. He had 61 receptions for 709 yards. Little had multiple receptions in all but two games. He had six games with 50-plus yards, including a 131-yard performance in Week 15. Little should be the No. 1 for the Browns once again in 2012. Little is a big receiver that is a good fit for the Browns' West Coast offense. Even though he is a big target, Little can get downfield in a hurry. He'll make the tough catch in traffic and does a good job of making a big play out of a short reception. He isn't a polished product, though, and needs to improve his route running and consistency.
Fantasy Outlook:
Little has some upside for the coming year. The Browns passing game has to be better than last year, which is a good sign for Little. It wouldn't surprise to see him finish with 75 receptions for around 1,000 yards and six touchdowns. He is worth a pick as a No. 3 receiver come draft day. He is a high upside player. | | #161 | Mario Manningham (WR) | TDs: 9 Yds: 944 | San Francisco | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Manningham missed four games because of injury late in the year but was able to get 523 yards in 12 games. He even started 10 games for the Giants. He had seven games with 50-plus yards in the 12 games he played. Manningham didn't have the huge performances of the previous season, though, having a season high in yards of just 77. Mannigham lost out on playing time and targets to Victor Cruz, who emerged as a star in the Giants' offense. Manningham takes his talents to San Francisco this season. He'll be the No. 3 receiver behind Randy Moss and Michael Crabtree. Manningham heads to a much more conservative offense with a less talented quarterback (Alex Smith) at the helm. Manningham has two of four seasons with 800-plus yards but is yet to have a 1,000-yard season. Manningham is a decent sized receiver with plus speed and playmaking ability. He has struggled with drops in the past, but seems to be over that for the most part.
Fantasy Outlook:
A move to San Francisco didn't help his fantasy value. He might get 700 yards and a few scores in this offense. It wouldn't be a surprise to see him take over as a starter at some point if Moss struggles, which is very possible, but until that happens, Manningham won't be worth using for fantasy teams. | | #162 | Rashard Mendenhall (RB) | TDs: 13 Yds: 1273 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Mendenhall failed to top the 1,000-yard mark for the third straight season. He wasn't quite as consistent as previous seasons as the Steelers had all sorts of issues running the ball much of the year. He had a couple 100-yard games but also had fewer than 50-rushing yards six games. Mendenhall did score nine touchdowns, giving him 22 touchdowns the last two seasons. He has been finding the end zone on a pretty regular basis in a good Steelers' offense. In the last three seasons, Mendenhall averages 1,103-rushing yards, 194-receiving yards and 10 touchdowns per season. The Steelers are looking for more balance in the offense this season, which could mean more consistent work for Mendenhall. He is a pretty complete back. Mendenhall is a very good between the tackles runner but has the speed to break some big plays. He also is a decent receiving option as evident by his 66 catches the last three seasons.
Fantasy Outlook:
Mendenhall remains outside the top group of running backs. He is a good bounce-back candidate for the coming year, though. It wouldn't surprise to see him have a career season with Todd Haley now calling plays. Haley has produced some big fantasy seasons for running backs (i.e. Jamaal Charles). A season with 1,600 or so total yards and double-digit touchdowns seems about right for Mendenhall in 2012. | | #163 | Brian Quick (WR) | | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | | | #164 | Javon Ringer (RB) | TDs: 2 Yds: 239 | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Ringer missed the last four games of the year with a broken hand but was getting sporadic work in a reserve role before the injury. He failed to rush for 200 yards but got more work in the passing game, catching a career-high 28 passes 187 yards. He actually had two more receiving yards than rushing. Ringer had double-digit carries just once all season. He should continue to be the top backup Chris Johnson. Ringer has never rushed for more than 300 yards in a season. Ringer can do some good things with the ball in his hands, though. He isn't a big back, but runs pretty well between the tackles and has the speed to break some big plays. He seems a pretty good compliment to Johnson. Ringer probably doesn't have the ideal size to be an every-down back (5-9, 205 pounds).
Fantasy Outlook:
Ringer is a good handcuff for Chris Johnson owners but has little value outside of that. Ringer could do alright in a starting role if called on. But if he doesn't start, his numbers aren't going to be impressive. He could get 400 total yards and a few scores. | | #165 | Evan Royster (RB) | | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Royster was inactive most weeks until late in the season but actually got some starts late in the year because of injury and took advantage. Royster had two straight 100-yard games to end his season. Royster had 404 total yards and in just six games. He could play a bigger role in the offense from day one after a strong finish to the season. Royster isn't likely to start but could be the top backup for the Redskins. Royster doesn't have a lot of burst or breakaway speed, but makes plays and moves the pile. Royster runs pretty well between the tackles and has solid vision. He isn't a flashy runner but just seems to get the job done.
Fantasy Outlook:
You never know with the Redskins running back situation so Royster is worth a late-round flyer. He'll likely be a boom or bust pick. We think he is worth the risk as a low-end No. 3 or No. 4 fantasy back after averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry. The potential is certainly there for good things if he gets consistent work. | | #166 | Shane Vereen (RB) | | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Vereen was fourth or fifth on the depth chart most of his rookie season, getting very little playing time. He was inactive most weeks. Vereen played five games and ran 15 times for 57 yards. He still has plenty of competition at running back but the Patriots aren't giving up on him yet. He could play a much bigger offensive role with a good offseason of work and a strong training camp. He'll compete for a change-of-pace role with the Patriots. Vereen is a big-play option at running back. He isn't a huge back, which hurts his chances to be an every-down back, but he has the speed and hands to excel as a third-down back.
Fantasy Outlook:
Vereen will be hit or miss most weeks, but has some weekly upside for the big game if he starts getting consistent playing time. His total yardage numbers should be better this season. Expect about 400 total yards and a few scores. He is worth a look as a deep reserve for fantasy teams. | | #167 | Mike Williams (WR) | TDs: 2 Yds: 751 | Seattle | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Williams was the starter much of the season but his numbers weren't too impressive in that role, catching just 18 passes in 12 games. He broke his ankle at the end of the season and needed surgery, missing the last two games. Williams had more than 50 yards in a game just once all last year. He failed to live up to his first season with the Seahawks, struggling like he did earlier in his career. Williams will get a chance to compete for the starting job this season but isn't likely to win that spot after last season. He is likely to be the No. 3 or 4 receiver for the Seahawks. Williams doesn't have much speed or big-play ability, but can be a top-notch possession receiver. He uses his big frame well to create space and make plays. Williams isn't much of a red-zone option, though, which is a surprise considering his size (five touchdowns in five seasons).
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams could bounce back some from last year but don't expect much. He looked like the Mike Williams from early in his career, which is a concern. He could get 25 or so receptions for 300 yards with a few scores. Williams isn't going to be a big help for fantasy teams. | | #168 | Mike Williams (WR) | TDs: 11 Yds: 955 | Tampa Bay | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Williams didn't have near the year as expected last season after a big rookie season. He lacked explosiveness and consistency, finishing with 65 catches for 771 yards. He averaged nearly three yards less per reception than the previous season. The entire Bucs passing game struggled, though, which didn't help matters for Williams. He can get better with more consistent play from Josh Freeman and the rest of the offense. Williams does move to a No. 2 receiver role with Vincent Jackson lining up opposite him this season. This could help open up things for Williams some as Jackson will draw a lot of attention in coverage. Williams is a talented player. He had some character concerns out of college, but did a good job of putting those to rest the last two seasons. Williams has good size and strength, and does well in making plays downfield. He is an explosive player and top red-zone threat because of his size. He needs to improve his consistency going forward, though, if he hopes to continue to start and play at a high level in the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams can improve on last season even with Jackson around. We think it could help him. Williams is a good bounce-back candidate in what should be a better Bucs' offense. It wouldn't surprise to see him get 75 receptions for near 1,000 yards and seven or so scores. We aren't giving up on him after a down season. He showed too much promise his rookie season. | | #169 | Ryan Williams (RB) | | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Williams missed his entire rookie season because of a torn right patella tendon, suffered before the start of the season. He is right on track to be ready for the coming year, though. Williams should be full speed for the start of training camp. While he was out, Chris Wells emerged as the No. 1 back for the Cardinals, a role he should continue to serve this season. Williams will get his touches but probably more in a change-of-pace role for the Cardinals. Williams is a big-play back capable of taking it to the house every time he touches the ball. He makes plays happen in space. He also runs with some power, though, and has good vision. Williams has a lot of ability but needs to show he can stay healthy and produce in a prominent role.
Fantasy Outlook:
His stock is down after the breakout season of Wells, but don't forget about Williams after missing all of last year. He certainly is a very talented player that will get his chances in this offense as long as he is healthy. Plus, Wells has past injury issues, which could help the chances of Williams getting more playing time. Williams is worth a look as a No. 3 or 4 fantasy back. He has big-game potential. A season with 700 or 800 total yards and five touchdowns seems possible for Williams. | | #170 | David Wilson (RB) | | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
The Giants found their new No. 2 back in the draft, taking Wilson with their first pick in the draft. He'll be the top backup to oft-injured Ahmad Bradshaw. Wilson is an explosive back. He has electric speed and great moves in space. He also is a top receiver out of the backfield, making him an ideal third-down back. He isn't a great inside runner, though, and lacks some patience, which will need to get better if he wants to be a No. 1 back in the NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Wilson has some value his rookie season. The Giants will get him some playing time, especially if you consider how they have used backs in the past. It wouldn't surprise to see Wilson get around 1,000 total yards and six touchdowns his rookie season. He has value as a No. 3 or 4 back for fantasy teams. He could have even more value in the coming years, though. | | #171 | Danny Woodhead (RB) | TDs: 5 Yds: 547 | New England | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Woodhead still got his chances last season but saw a dip in production. He had 20 fewer carries and 16 less receptions, which obviously led to his dip in total yards. Woodhead finished with 508 total yards. He had double-digit carries once all season, the first game of the year. He still served as the third-down back much of the time, getting plenty of work on passing downs. Woodhead should serve a similar role this season, getting around five touches per game. Woodhead is a very small back, but has great speed and moves in the open field. His lack of size will prevent him from being an every-down back, but he can be a top change-of-pace option.
Fantasy Outlook:
Woodhead is an OK option in PPR leagues. He'll get work in the Patriots pass-first offense. He can get 500 or 600 total yards and a few scores. Woodhead also will help a little in standard leagues as a No. 4 back. He has upside for the big game in an explosive offense. | | #172 | Matt Bryant (K) | FGM: 28 FGA: 31 | Atlanta | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
A move to Atlanta led to the best season of Bryant's career. He didn't set a career high in points (128) but finished just shy of his best total and missed just three field goals all season. Bryant made 90 percent of his field goals, which was the highest total of his career as a full-time starter. Bryant enjoyed kicking in a dome, making 9-of-11 field goals from 40-plus yards. He should continue to get plenty of chances in the Falcons' high-powered offense. Bryant has 118 or more points three of the last four seasons. Bryant has a great leg and his accuracy continues to get better and better.
Fantasy Outlook:
Bryant is an elite fantasy kicker in this offense. He'll provide high point totals and some long-distance kicks. He seems a pretty good bet to get around 120 points in this offense. Consider him a top No. 1 for the coming season. | | #173 | Garrett Hartley (K) | FGM: 20 FGA: 25 | New Orleans | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
Hartley was benched for a couple games last season because of some easy misses. But he rebounded from the benching and finished the season strong. Hartley missee three field goals his first three games but just two more after his two-game benching. He scored 100 points in 14 games and made 80 percent of his field-goal attempts. Hartley makes 86 percent of his kicks for his career and averages 7.6 points per game for his career.
Hartley has a very strong leg and is pretty accurate, putting his early-season woes behind him. He plays in a great offense and should get plenty of chances as the top kicker for the Saints.
Fantasy Outlook:
Hartley is a top kicker in a great offense. He has a few more concerns than many of the top kickers out there, but his upside is probably higher than any other kicker. He is a top-five fantasy kicker and you can make a strong case for him to be the first kicker off the board. He is capable of scoring 130-plus points in this offense. | | #174 | Alex Henery (K) | | Philadelphia | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Henery gets a chance to be the Eagles kicker from day one his rookie season. The job is his with David Akers gone. The Eagles used a fourth-round pick on Henery, proving how valuable he is to them. Henery seems the complete package at kicker. He is extremely accurate on shorter kicks and has a big leg to make long-distance kicks. He does struggle some with longer kicks, which would be the only chink in his armor right now.
Fantasy Outlook:
If all goes well, Henery can be a top-five fantasy kicker in this offense. The Eagles produce big-time fantasy kickers. Henery is a bit of a risk because he is a rookie but the upside makes him worth the gamble. You can always find another kicker on the waiver wire if needed. | | #175 | Mark Sanchez (QB) | TDs: 17 Yds: 3291 | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
For fantasy purposes, Sanchez didn't have too bad of a season. He scored touchdowns in all but a game and had 12 multiple touchdown games. Sanchez had a career high 32 total touchdowns. He also completed a career-high 57 percent of his passes for 3,474 yards. He did have fewer than 200 yards eight games and turned the ball over 26 times. His play was erratic for the Jets, going in the tank some games while excelling in others. He has failed to play consistency throughout a full season, making this likely a make or break season for Sanchez. In the last two seasons, Sanchez averages 3,383-passing yards, 26 total touchdowns and 16 interceptions. Sanchez continues to struggle with accuracy issues but is always capable of the big game. He has a pro arm and can make all the throws in the NFL. Sanchez does a good job of moving around the pocket, avoiding the rush and making plays. He has 100-plus rushing yards and at least three rushing touchdowns each of his three seasons in the league.
Fantasy Outlook:
Sanchez isn't that bad for fantasy teams but his overall play likely gives him a shorter leash this season. He'll need to be more consistent for the Jets. But if he plays a full season, you can expect 3,500 yards and 25 or so touchdowns. Those fantasy numbers make him a low-end No. 1 or top backup for fantasy teams. Don't let all the negativity surrounding him skew your fantasy view of him. He has value. | | #176 | Kevin Kolb (QB) | TDs: 7 Yds: 1197 | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Kolb battled injury throughout his first season with the Cardinals. He finally got his chance to start from day one but battled injury and inconsistent play. Kolb played nine games. Kolb threw for 230-plus yards seven of nine games but had just nine touchdowns to nine interceptions. He did make some plays downfield and move the ball but turned the ball over too much and struggled some in the red zone. The jury remains out if Kolb is a legit NFL starter. Kolb still has time to get it going at age 28 (when he season starts) but this is likely a make or break season for him. He won't be handed the starter's job. Kolb is an accurate passer with a strong arm. He can make the tough pass in traffic, but still needs work on the deep ball. He also needs to cut down on his turnovers and make better overall decisions in the passing game. If that doesn't happen, his time as a starter in the NFL will end earlier than expected.
Fantasy Outlook:
Don't give up hope on Kolb just yet. He did produce for fantasy teams when playing. His yardage numbers can be very good. If he rights the ship, he can throw for 3,700 yards and 25 touchdowns. He is worth a gamble as a No. 2 because of his big-game potential. He is an even more attractive option for fantasy teams that have a top No. 1 (i.e. Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees). | | #177 | Rueben Randle (WR) | | New York Giants | Bye: 11 | | | | | #178 | Benjamin Watson (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 763 | Cleveland | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
It isn't saying a whole lot, but Watson was the top target in the Browns' passing game last season. He had a career season, catching 68 passes for 763 yards. He bested his career reception high by 19. And he had never topped 700 yards before last season. Watson was a reliable target for the Browns, making a ton of weekly plays. He had at least three receptions in all but four games. A move to Cleveland seemed to be just the thing to jumpstart Watson's career after having fewer than 420 yards three straight seasons. Watson should continue to be a big part of the offense as the Browns still lack some top options at the receiver and their new West Coast offense should be a good fit for him. Watson is a big, fast target over the middle and a nice deep threat, considering his size. He isn't much of a blocker, but his pass-catching skills are what get him on the field.
Fantasy Outlook:
Watson seems unlikely to repeat last season but he could still have a solid season. He plays in an offense looking for playmakers and seemed to gain a nice rapport with quarterback Colt McCoy, which are two good things for him going forward. His lack of scores (three last season) is a downer, but his reception and yardage totals should be in the top 10 for fantasy tight ends. He should be able to get around 60 catches for 650 yards, making him a solid reserve or spot starter for fantasy teams. | | #179 | Jake Locker (QB) | | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Locker got a little action his rookie season but was the backup to Matt Hasselbeck much of the season. He did attempt 66 passes in a backup role and had five total touchdowns without an interception. He made plays when called on to play. Locker got his most action Week 14, going 13-of-29 for 282 yards and a touchdown against the Saints. He also ran six times for 36 yards and a touchdown. The Titans will have an open competition for the starting quarterback spot this season. Hasselbeck is the stable option but Locker brings more upside to the table. He should have a legit shot to start but the Titans don't seem inclined to just hand him the job. They are happy with Hasselbeck even though he was up and down last season. Locker is the complete package at quarterback, though. He is a top athlete with a strong arm and the ability to make plays with his legs. He does lack accuracy, though, and will need to improve in that area to win the starting job. Locker completed just 52 percent of his passes last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Locker should start in our eyes but that doesn't mean much. He has a chance to win the starting job but it is far from a given. Because of this, consider Locker a late-round pick for fantasy teams. His upside is high in a starting role. If starting from day one, we think he can throw for 3,500 yards and 20 or so touchdowns with 500-rushing yards and five or so scores. | | #180 | Alshon Jeffery (WR) | | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | | | #181 | Kyle Rudolph (TE) | | Minnesota | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Rudolph was the top rated tight end in this year's draft. He isn't much of a blocker but a top pass catcher. He has plus speed, very good hands and the ability to make the tough catch. In terms of a pass catcher, Rudolph is ready to make an immediate impact in the NFL. He needs to work on his blocking if he hopes to become a full-time starter, though. For now, expect Rudolph and Visanthe Shiancoe to get a lot of work in two-tight end sets. The Vikings need playmakers in the passing game, so Rudolph will get plenty of chances his rookie season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Rudolph should be a solid spot starter for fantasy teams. He'll get plenty of targets in the offense. The Vikings will utilize his top pass-catching skills. A season with around 500 yards and four or so touchdowns seem about right for Rudolph. | | #182 | Nate Washington (WR) | TDs: 6 Yds: 687 | Tennessee | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
It took a little time but Washington had his best season as a pro, hitting the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his career. He had career highs in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He took advantage of serving as the No. 1 receiver because of injury (Kenny Britt) and an improved Titans passing game. He had 10 games with 60-plus yards, serving as a consistent threat in the offense. Washington failed to top 50 receptions or 700 yards in any season before last year. He might have a hard time repeating last year, though, with Britt back healthy. He'll continue to start but be used as a No. 2 receiver in the offense. Washington has good speed and size, and does a good job of stretching the field. He does tend to drop some passes, though, which hurts his stats some.
Fantasy Outlook:
Washington had a breakout year last season but likely will be drafted too high based on those numbers. He probably won't perform like past season but will have a hard time repeating last year. We see a season with around 800 yards and six touchdowns, which makes him a No. 3 or 4 fantasy receiver. | | #183 | Matt Cassel (QB) | TDs: 27 Yds: 3116 | Kansas City | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Cassel injured his hand in Week 10 and eventually needed season-ending surgery to fix the injury. He should be just fine for 2012, which is the positive. After a career season in 2010, Cassel had his struggles last season. He had 10 touchdowns to nine interceptions had five of nine games with less than 200-passing yards. He did have a few big games, though, throwing for 257 yards and four touchdowns against the Colts in Week 6. Cassel has thrown for 3,000-plus yards and at least 20 touchdowns two of the last four seasons. He has yet to complete at least 60 percent of his passes in three seasons with the Chiefs. His accuracy issues have been a concern for the Chiefs. Cassel doesn't have a great arm and doesn't do a great job of pushing the ball downfield, but normally makes pretty good decisions and seems to know the offense. He plays in a run-first offense, but will get his chances from week to week in a pass-friendly NFL.
Fantasy Outlook:
Not an exciting fantasy option. Cassel has done next to nothing without Charlie Weis at his side, which is the case again this season, so don't expect a big turnaround. He might get you around 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns but could be on a short leash in a make or break season for his career. He carries a little more risk than your normal No. 2 fantasy quarterback. | | #184 | Heath Miller (TE) | TDs: 2 Yds: 512 | Pittsburgh | Bye: 4 | | | Player News:
Miller didn't have a huge season but was still productive, topping 500 yards for the fourth straight season. He caught 42 passes in 14 games, having at least two receptions in all but a game. In the last four seasons, Miller averages 53 receptions for 595 yards and five touchdowns. He had one huge season in 2009, but the rest of his seasons have been very similar. Miller is the top tight end in the Steelers offense. Despite his size (6-5), Miller is quick and runs good routes, making him a tough cover. Plus, he is tough to bring down once he gets the ball. The Steelers throw a little more often than past Steelers' teams, giving Miller more chances in the passing game. He averaged five targets per game last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Miller is a low-end No. 1 tight end. You pretty much know what to expect - a few big games, a few down games and a bunch of mediocre showings. He is good for 50 catches for 550 yards and five touchdowns. Miller isn't an exciting option at tight end but can get the job done if you want to wait on a starting tight end come draft day. | | #185 | Matt Flynn (QB) | TDs: 3 Yds: 433 | Seattle | Bye: 11 | | | Player News:
Flynn started just one game but broke the record for passing yards and touchdowns in a game by a Packers quarterback. Needless to say, he took advantage of his start, throwing for 480 yards and six touchdowns with an interception. Flynn has shown enough the last few seasons to finally get his shot to start in the NFL, landing with the Seahawks. He has completed 62 percent of his passes for his career with 10 total touchdowns to just five interceptions. Flynn has good size and is a pretty accurate quarterback. His arm isn't overwhelming, but gets the job done. Flynn also doesn't run too badly as evident by his 26-rushing yards in 2010. He won't be handed the starting job in Seattle but it certainly is his to lose.
Fantasy Outlook:
Flynn has plenty of upside and promise in a starting role but remember he isn't in Green Bay anymore. Consider him a bit like Kevin Kolb last season. He is worth a gamble as a No. 2 quarterback but don't count on anything more than that when drafting him. The Seahawks don't exactly have a prolific offense, which is going to hurt Flynn some, but he could have a few big games along the way. | | #186 | Randall Cobb (WR) | | Green Bay | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Cobb wasn't a huge factor as a receiver but got some work his rookie season. He made more of an immediate impact on special teams, having both a kick and punt return touchdown. He was an electric return man for the Packers. He also got some work as a receiver, catching 25 passes for 375 yards. Cobb had a catch in all but two of the games he played. He has a lot to compete with for targets in the Packers' offense but will get his chances because of his big-play ability. Cobb isn't a big receiver, but runs solid routes and makes plays in space. He does well in three or four receiver sets for the Packers. Cobb has plus hands and just seems to make plays.
Fantasy Outlook:
Cobb won't be consistent in this offense in his current role but we expect his numbers to improve some. He'll get a little more work. Cobb could finish with 500 or so yards and a few scores. Cobb's value still remains best on special teams. | | #187 | David Nelson (WR) | TDs: 3 Yds: 353 | Buffalo | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Nelson was the starter much of the season for the Bills, starting 13 of 16 games. He about doubled his totals from his rookie season, catching 61 passes for 658 yards and five touchdowns. Nelson had multiple receptions in all but two games. He didn't have a 100-yard game but five games with 50-plus yards. He proved to be more of a possession receiver and red-zone target than a big-play threat. He'll continue to play a big role in the offense, serving as the No. 2 or 3 receiver for the Bills. Nelson is a big target with good hands and the ability to move the chains. Nelson has a great build for the receiver position and does well in the red zone.
Fantasy Outlook:
Nelson isn't a big-play threat, but will get some catches and yards. He could get 60 receptions for 600 yards once again with six or so touchdowns in an improving Bills' offense. He has more value in PPR formats than standard leagues. | | #188 | Brandon Weeden (QB) | | Cleveland | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
The Browns used a first-round pick to grab a 28-year old quarterback. This is a pretty good sign the Browns think Weeden can play this season. He will get a chance to start from day one and should be the favorite to win the job over Colt McCoy. Weeden is older but he has the makeup of a solid NFL starter. Weeden can make all the pro throws. He is an accurate quarterback with a strong and quick release. Weeden made solid decisions in college, rarely turning the ball over. He isn't much of a scrambler, though, and tends to lock on receivers from time to time. Weeden is a former minor league baseball player, which is the reason he is getting started a little late for a rookie.
Fantasy Outlook:
It would be a bit of a surprise to see Weeden lose the starter's job in Cleveland. He will play in a pretty pass-heavy scheme, which could lead to a few big games. Don't expect a huge season but he might be worth consideration as a low-end No. 2 quarterback. Weeden can throw for 3,300 yards and around 20 touchdowns with 15 or so interceptions. | | #189 | Mohamed Sanu (WR) | | Cincinnati | Bye: 8 | | | | | #190 | Dennis Pitta (TE) | TDs: 0 Yds: 1 | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Pitta missed some time because of a concussion, but had just a catch for a yard in 11 games during his rookie season. He didn't exactly show off his pass-catching skills, which was a strength during his college days. Pitta isn't much of a blocker, serving more as a pass-first tight end. He is athletic enough to line up as a receiver, making him a tough cover for opposing defenses. Pitta has a lot of competition for playing time, though, likely making him the No. 3 tight end for the coming season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Pitta might get some more chances, especially with Todd Heap another year older, but don't expect a sudden huge season from Pitta. He might get double-digit catches but not enough consistent work to help fantasy teams just yet. | | #191 | Lance Kendricks (TE) | | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
The Rams wanted to add playmakers offensively for Sam Bradford, so they used a second-round pick on Kendricks. He is a big-time athlete at tight end. Kendricks should be used down the middle to stretch the field for the Rams. He has plus speed for the position and pretty good hands. He also is a willing blocker that should get better with more seasoning. The Rams are likely to use a lot more two-tight end sets this season, giving Kendricks plenty of playing time his rookie season. He has a chance to be the No. 1 tight end for the Rams.
Fantasy Outlook:
Kendricks is worth a late-round flier. He is capable of being the top rookie tight end this season. The Rams might go with a similar offense to the Patriots last season, giving the tight ends a lot of targets. It wouldn't surprise to see Kendricks finish with similar numbers to Aaron Hernandez, getting around 600 yards and six touchdowns. He has some value as a No. 2 fantasy tight end. | | #192 | Baltimore Ravens (Def) | | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | | | #193 | Chris Cooley (TE) | TDs: 3 Yds: 849 | Washington | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Cooley had a big rebound season after an injury plagued '09 season. Cooley tied a career high in yards (849) and caught 77 passes, his second highest career total. Cooley was a reliable target in the Redskins' new offense, an offense that normally gets the tight end involved. Cooley has at least 77 receptions two of the last three years and 700-plus yards in all but two NFL seasons. He has been a consistent No. 1 tight end in the Redskins' offense. Cooley has never been a huge red-zone threat, though, failing to top double-digit scores at any point of his career. Cooley isn't a huge tight end, but he has pretty good size and runs well for his size. And he has plus hands, catching nearly everything thrown his way.
Fantasy Outlook:
Cooley isn't a prolific No. 1 fantasy tight end, but solid. His only knock are a lack of scores (six the last three seasons). But he'll get a ton of receptions (70-plus) and around 800-receiving yards. Cooley isn't flashy but certainly gets the job done for fantasy teams, producing solid weekly numbers. | | #194 | Todd Heap (TE) | TDs: 5 Yds: 599 | Arizona | Bye: 10 | | | Player News:
Heap missed three games because of a hamstring injury, but still had his best numbers in several seasons. He finished with 599 yards, his highest total since 2006. Heap got a lot more chances in the passing game after having to block a little more the last few seasons for the Ravens. He has been a steady producer through the years as the top tight end in the Ravens' offense. Heap has 500-plus yards six of 10 seasons in the NFL. He has never topped 900 yards but has two seasons with 800-plus yards. Heap has been a big part of the offense for years but never been much of a red-zone threat, having 41 touchdowns in 10 seasons. His career high in touchdowns is seven. Heap is a solid all-around tight end, though. He is fast, athletic and a big target (6-5), but also a more than adequate blocker. Heap heads to the Cardinals this season, taking over as their No. 1 tight end.
Fantasy Outlook:
Heap was a much better option a few seasons back. He still has some potential for the big game, but is more of a fantasy reserve these days. He'll get around 50 catches for 600 yards and five touchdowns. Those aren't bad numbers by any means, but not those of a No. 1 tight end anymore. | | #195 | Anthony Fasano (TE) | TDs: 4 Yds: 528 | Miami | Bye: 7 | | | Player News:
Fasano probably had his most productive season to date, setting career highs in receptions (39) and yards (528). He even had a 100-yard game Week 10, showing some big-game potential. Fasano scored four touchdowns, which was the second best total of his career. Fasano has been consistent the last three seasons, having at least 30 receptions each of the last three years. He remains the No. 1 tight end for the Dolphins. His biggest asset probably remains as a blocker, but he is making strides as a receiver. Fasano has little speed, but pretty good hands and runs decent routes. He is a top blocker at his position, though, and a big asset for the running game.
Fantasy Outlook:
Fasano is worth some spot starts (has some touchdown potential), but count on about 35 catches for 450 yards and five scores, which isn't a huge asset for fantasy teams. He is a solid backup but don't reach for him as your No. 1 tight end. | | #196 | Ed Dickson (TE) | TDs: 1 Yds: 152 | Baltimore | Bye: 8 | | | Player News:
Dickson didn't get much work at tight end his rookie season, but made some big plays with his limited chances. He caught 11 passes for 152 yards, averaging 13.8 yards per reception. Dickson is likely the future at tight end for the Ravens, though. He could be the starter in another season or two. For now, he should be the top backup to Todd Heap. Dickson is a talented pass catcher at tight end. He has speed to stretch the field and is a top athlete. He runs solid runs and can create mismatches in coverage. Dickson will drop some passes, though, and needs to improve his blocking.
Fantasy Outlook:
Dickson will get some more chances this coming season, but not enough to be a big factor for fantasy teams. He could get 25 receptions for 300 yards and a few scores. But until Heap is out of the picture, Dickson isn't worth owning just yet. | | #197 | Plaxico Burress (WR) | | New York Jets | Bye: 9 | | | | | #198 | Titus Young (WR) | | Detroit | Bye: 5 | | | Player News:
Young started the season a little slow but finished well, having four or more receptions his last four games. He also scored four touchdowns during that stretch. Young had a pretty productive rookie season, catching 48 passes for 607 yards. He was a top red-zone target, catching six touchdown passes. Young didn't have a 100-yard game but had two with 80-plus yards. He started nine of 16 games for the Lions. He'll be given first shot to start opposite Calvin Johnson in 2012. Young is a big-play threat at receiver. He has explosive speed and top moves in the open field. He still needs work on his route running but can turn a short route into a big play or make a big play by just running by defenders. He should become even more polished as his career progresses.
Fantasy Outlook:
You have to like his upside in a great passing game. Young can near 1,000 yard and scored eight or so touchdowns this season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 or top No. 3 fantasy receiver for this season. | | #199 | Roy Williams (WR) | TDs: 0 Yds: 109 | Chicago | Bye: 6 | | | Player News:
A move to Chicago did little to jumpstart his career. Williams finished with very similar numbers to the previous two seasons, catching 37 passes for 502 yards and two touchdowns. His season high in yards was 81, which came the second last week of the season. In the last three seasons, Williams averages 37 receptions for 544 yards and five touchdowns per season. He hasn't topped 600 yards since 2007 and has just one 1,000-yard season for his career. At this point, he is backup material for NFL teams. Williams is a big target with plus strength, but he isn't very explosive and has struggled with drops in recent years.
Fantasy Outlook:
Williams has some red-zone potential because of his size and strength, but provides little else besides that touchdown potential. His yardage and reception totals are more than mediocre, making him an undesirable option for fantasy teams. His best days are well behind him. | | #200 | Austin Pettis (WR) | | St Louis | Bye: 9 | | | Player News:
Pettis got some work his rookie season, catching 27 passes for 256 yards in 12 games. He didn't top 50 yards in a single game, though, and failed to score a touchdown. Pettis projects to be more of a No. 3 receiver but has plenty of competition for playing time this season. He has a chance to be the No. 4 or 5 but will need to impress his new coaching regime. Pettis doesn't wow you with his speed, but he is a big target that runs good routes. He seems a good fit for the red zone even though he didn't score a touchdown last season. Pettis struggled with drops and lapses in concentration last season.
Fantasy Outlook:
Pettis might have a hard time matching his rookie season. The Rams certainly have openings at receiver but the new guys brought in likely are more talented than him. We wouldn't bother using a draft pick on him. He might be worth a waiver-wire grab if he starts playing consistently. |
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