Jonathan Walker

Devy Minute: Bo Nix

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Devy Minute: Bo Nix

By Jonathan Walker

 

After three seasons with the Auburn Tigers, quarterback Bo Nix transferred to the University of Oregon in 2022. In his first season at Oregon, Nix led the Ducks to a 9-3 record culminating with a victory in the Holiday Bowl against the University of North Carolina. During his three years at Auburn, Bo Nix finished with a 21-18 record but never passed for over 2,600 yards or exceeded 17 touchdowns in a single season. 

However, in 2022 with Oregon, Nix would enter Autzen Stadium and become a whole new quarterback for the Oregon Ducks. During his 1st season as the Duck's quarterback, he passed for almost 3,600 yards; shattering the previous year's totals. He would also throw for a total of 29 touchdowns with only 7 interceptions. 

In addition to his passing abilities, Nix ran the ball for a total of 510 yards with 14 touchdowns. As Nix enters his second season with the Ducks, Troy Franklin returns as his main receiving target. In Franklin, Nix benefits from having a true game-breaker on the outside catching the passes he throws.

 

 

With the high-powered Oregon offense, Bo Nix prepares to rocket himself into the discussion as one of the top quarterbacks for the 2024 NFL draft. If Bo Nix continues his upward trajectory, as he did in 2022, he is going to be the face of the quarterback position in college football. If Nix can continue to grow his chemistry with his wide receivers, the sky is the limit to how high Nix's ceiling can be. 

My favorite game from the 2022 season is when the #10 Oregon Ducks took on the #9 UCLA Bruins on Oct 22, Bo Nix threw for 283 yards bringing in 5 passing touchdowns, while going 22-38 (83.6% passer rating) Nix also ran for 51 yards. He led the Ducks to a 45-30 victory over their conference rival, but it was not just about how he could throw the ball, it was about how he could command his team and wide receivers down the field. Bo took over the Oregon Ducks and made it HIS team during the game and showed that he is capable of leading a team from the first to the last whistle. 

Bo Nix made several good reads all throughout the game, he did not put himself or the Ducks in a position where they were in jeopardy. He showed the true mindset of a leader, which every NFL team is searching for in their quarterback. 

In addition to his draft status, Bo could very well put his name in the top 3 for the Heisman in 2023 if he stays on the path he has already set in front of himself. Meaning that if Bo can continue to excel at Oregon, he can be one of, if not the best QB in the 2023 season of college. He could also move his draft position to the #1 Quarterback drafted in the 2024 NFL Draft.

 

 

 

 

Dynasty Dilemma: C.J Stroud

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Dynasty Dilemma: C.J Stroud

By Johnathan Walker

 

CJ Stroud put up enormous numbers during his 2 seasons with Ohio State, throwing for over 8,100 yards and 85 touchdowns with only 12 interceptions. In his first season with the Buckeyes, Stroud led the offense to be #2 in total points and #1 in points per game, then in his final season, he led them to be #5 in total points and #2 in points per game. Stroud was the only QB selected in this draft to lead his team in the top 5 for total points and points per game in his last two seasons. 

Stroud also made sure to put himself in the Heisman spotlight in both of those seasons, where he finished 3rd in 2022 and finished 4th in 2021. C.J. was also able to lead his team to an 11-2 record and the NCAA CFP Semifinals last season (2022) and in 2021 he led his team to an 11-2 record and a Rose Bowl victory. He showed a tremendous ability to work the pocket and be able to move his WRs during the 2022 season. 

 

 

 

The main reason you would pass on C.J. Stroud is due to the fact that he is a rookie, and to add to that he is heading to the Houston Texans. They have been one of the worst teams for 2 years in a row. Even though the Texans added Stroud, they also added several weapons on the outside for him to pass the ball to. They added Robert Woods, Xavier Hutchinson, and Nathaniel Dell to the WR room who already had John Metchie and Nico Collins. They also added Veteran Dalton Schultz from the Dallas Cowboys. Can those additions help Stroud become a top-level QB in his first year? With C.J. Stroud entering into a must-win season for the Texans as a rookie the pressure could be too much for a young player. Forcing Stroud to make bad reads and passes, will greatly decrease his fantasy production. 

 

 

 

The biggest reason to buy C.J. Stroud over any other QB in this Draft Class is due to his body build being that of a true QB in the NFL. He is 6’3 weighing 218 LBS, which mirrors QB Joe Burrow of the Bengals. Now Stroud does not have the weapons of Burrow but with several new additions this off-season and the Draft the Texans have put themselves in a position to compete this year. Stroud will not only have great production himself but will also increase the production of all skill players for Houston. With the addition of the Veteran TE Dalton Schultz, Stroud will have a trustworthy player to check down to. With the ability to use his legs to extend plays NFL defenses will have to adjust to covering the WRs, TE, and RB along with Stroud. This will leave a 1-1 situation that several of the Texans WR can beat. Stroud also has a great ability to move around the pocket to buy time and also keep his eyes downfield to make an outstanding pass. C.J. Stroud is the next big QB in the NFL with immediate impact for the Texans. 

 

 

If you have the ability to draft Stroud, I would draft him. If you can buy Stroud, then buy him. Stroud will be the next great QB in the NFL, he is young and has amazing talent. Stroud will be the QB for the next several seasons not just for Houston but he will be a targeting mark for every QB drafted in his class and even a mark for veteran QBs. He will not only produce for his fantasy but for the fantasy of everyone around him. The Houston Texans will continue to bring weapons around Stroud to help his ability to lead the Texans to the playoffs or greater. I would BUY C.J Stroud.

 

Draft Day Drama: Indianapolis Colts

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Draft Day Drama: Indianapolis Colts

By Jonathan Walker

 

 

For several years now the Indianapolis Colts have been playing QB roulette, bringing in Phillip Rivers, Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, Nick Foles, and now Gardner Minshew. They released veteran QB Matt Ryan on Tuesday, March 10th, 2023, leaving a void at quarterback yet again. With the 4th overall pick in this year's draft, the Colts look to stop the bleeding by selecting a QB for a change. There are a ton of Mock Drafts that have them selecting Kentucky QB Will Levis. Will Levis is a pocket passer with a rocket for an arm. That’s not all as he has shown he can use his legs to gain yards, making him almost the perfect fit for new Head Coach Shane Steichen.

In his last season in Kentucky, Will Levis threw just over 2,400 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions with a completion of 65.4%. Levis however had -107 rushing yards for 2 TDs. His completion percentage was higher than fellow rookies Anthony Richardson and Bryce Young. Ohio State QB C.J Stroud had a 66.3% completion rating beating Levis by a slim 1.1%. That’s pretty impressive considering Levis lost all of his weapons the year before.

My favorite game from this season is when the Kentucky Wildcats played the Missouri Tigers. Levis threw for 170 yards, 3 touchdowns going 13-19 having a 68.4% completion rating. The Wildcats beat the Tigers 21-17, the reason this is my favorite game for Will Levis is he made several great passes. He was accurate in all zones of the field, did not force too many throws, and was able to read the opposing defense very well. Levis also led the Wildcats on a 4th quarter comeback with about 5:30 left in the game by making a fantastic bullet throw on a 3rd and 11 on his own 22-yard line.

Now for the DRAMA, if the Colts do draft Will Levis who will be their starter? Would they let the 4th overall pick in the NFL draft sit behind Nick Foles or Gardner Minshew? In most cases yes, but I remember the Cardinals trading up to draft QB Josh Rosen in 2018. They regretted that choice almost immediately. In fact, they gave up their 1st, 3rd, and 5th round picks just to move up five spots. Rosen then started 13 games and went 3-10 his rookie season having only 11 touchdowns but 14 interceptions.

On the other hand, drafting a QB in the top 5 can be positive for the team. Look back at 2012 when the Colts drafted Andrew Luck. He threw for 4,734 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 18 interceptions with a 54.1% completion rating. Luck also rushed for 255 yards and 5 touchdowns his rookie season, winning 11 games for the Colts which is the 3rd most wins by a rookie. Luck went 53-33 during his career before he unexpectedly retired at the age of 29. The Colts can only hope Will Levis can do the same thing for them, just not retire at a young age.

 

Fantasy Impact

With the Colts coming off a 4-12-1 season and bringing in a new Head Coach Shane Steichen, he will certainly look to make an immediate impact on the team. Bringing in a young talented player like Will Levis who could be that impact he’s looking for.

The way Levis can read defenses and make a pass in almost any tight window could be impressive to Steichen. The Head Coach-QB combo could quickly become one like the Eagles have. Last season Steichen lead the Eagles to have the #3 NFL offense in yards per game (389) and points per game (28). He was also able to lead them to be a top 5 rushing offense in the NFL, they were also able to lead the NFL in rushing touchdowns all season (32).

If Shane Steichen can make Will Levis the Colt's new Franchise QB, then both of them should make that immediate impact on the offense. The Colts would have a chance to put up numbers mirroring that of the Eagles from this past season. The impact that would have for pass catchers Michael Pittman, Isaiah McKenzie, Kylen Granson, and Jelani Woods could be a huge boost for their fantasy owners. If the Levis pick is made I would certainly look to buy Michael Pittman if I could get him at a good deal. If you could get Granson, Jelani, and/or McKenzie for cheap right now, the reward could be well worth it.

Draft Day Drama: Tennessee Titans

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Draft Day Drama: Tennessee Titans

By Jonathan Walker

 

The Titans hold the 11th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. But in the latest mock draft from Mel Kiper he has them trading up to the 3rd overall pick. This “proposed deal” would cost the Titans somewhere in the ball field of the 11th, 41st, ‘24 1st round pick, and possibly a ‘25 1st or 2nd round pick. This would allow them to have their pick of either Florida QB Anthony Richarson or Kentucky QB Will Levis. They are rumored to be in love with Anthony Richardson. In 2022 Richardson had over 2,500 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, with 9 interceptions completing only 53.8% of his passes. He also ran for 654 yards and 9 touchdowns.

It seems their offense would be a better fit for Anthony Richardson due to his arm strength and ability to run. Unfortunately I see Richardson as more of a thrower than a passer. Richardson might have the ability to throw the ball but what the Titans need is a QB who can pass the ball effectively.

 

 

Now for the DRAMA, if the Titans are willing to give up the 11th, 41st, ‘24 1st round pick and possibly ‘25 1st round pick, why would they just not trade for the former MVP Lamar Jackson? Drafting a rookie you never know what you will get, look at when the New York Jets traded up to the 3rd overall pick in 2018 giving up the 6th overall pick, 37th pick, 49th pick and ‘19 2nd round pick. The Jets used that 3rd round pick to draft QB Sam Darnold who compiled over 8,000 passing yards, 45 touchdowns, 39 interceptions along with 417 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns and a 13-25 record over a 3 year span. Look at what the 49ers gave up to get Trey Lance: First-round picks in the 2022 and '23 NFL Drafts, as well as a third-round selection in 2022. How’s that going now? Keep in mind that the Titans new GM is Ran Carthon, who spent the last six seasons with those 49ers. Hmmm.

Let’s say Richardson matches what Darnold did in his first 3 compared to Lamar Jackson’s last 3 seasons. Lamar had over 7,500 passing yards, 59 touchdowns, 29 interceptions along with over 2,400 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns and a 31-11 record. Given these stats, why would the Titans not go after the former MVP? The only difference (which is a big one) is the contract. Signing Richardson would cost around $38 Million, trading for Lamar Jackson would cost at least $230 Million guaranteed. Now that is a bit of a price difference but that is the price you pay for a QB who is 1 of only 4 active NFL players who have won the MVP.

When Anthony Richardson actually played a college defense that could somewhat resemble a NFL defense, it did not go well. In their game against the Georgia Bulldogs Richardson went 18/37 for passing with 271 yards and 1 touchdown in their 20-42 loss. If those were the numbers Richardson put up against a good defense, then he would be torn apart in the NFL. There’s a possibility that Anthony Richardson can’t handle a NFL defense if that game showed us anything. When Georgia would pressure Richarson he would rush the throw and it would not be on target. Even simple passes like throws to a flat were off due to Richarson not being able to handle pressure. Most of Anthony Richardson’s completed passes were against the backups for the Georgia defense. Or maybe he just had a bad day. Let’s think that’s how the Titans see it.

 

Fantasy Impact

It would make more sense if the Titans brought in Lamar Jackson, as it would impact every skill position on their offense in a positive way. Every defense that would play against them would have to compensate for Lamar’s running ability, allowing WR Treylon Burks to get 1-on-1 coverage which he has shown he can beat. If a defense forces Lamar to pass the ball, they would be in trouble as well. Over the years Lamar has shown incredible improvement in his passing ability. Unfortunately, this option is extremely far-fetched and unlikely to happen.

Instead, I see the Titans trading up to select Anthony Richardson. This wouldn't be good for Treylon Burks owners. In fact, it wouldn’t be good for any skilled position players on the Titans. The Titans could feel pressured to pull Ryan Tannehill sooner than later in favor of starting Richardson.

The fact of the matter is that Richardson is a prospect that probably needs a couple of years to develop rather than being a starting NFL QB day 1. None of this will be good if you own any Titans players in fantasy.

Rookie Spotlight: Brian Branch

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Rookie Spotlight: Brian Branch

By Johnathan Walker

With last year’s NFL Draft being defense heavy it looks to be switched this year being more offense heavy. With this being said it is very important to not forget some of the great defensive players going into the Draft. One you do not want to miss out on is the #1 S and his name is Brian Branch. He has played Corner, as well as Nickel during his time at Alabama. He played in 38 games throughout his college career racking up over 1600 snaps. He was a very reliable piece for Alabama’s Defense and will look to be a key piece on a NFL defense. Brian Branch ended his 2022 season with 90 total tackles, 58 solo tackles, 7 passers defended, 3 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

Strengths

With over 1,600 snaps Branch grew to being one of the best to read routes, he was also able to quickly close the gap on pass plays flying across the field. Over his time with Alabama Brian had some of the most tremendous growth in zone coverage arguably becoming the best cover Safety in college last season.  Branch has also shown growth in man coverage, I think his biggest strength throughout his college career was his ability to tackle. He is not scared to get down and dirty, having major highlights with his ability to “Lay a Hat” (also known as a big hit). 

 

Weakness

As a Safety you must be able to have quick closing speed, which is something Brian Branch lacks slightly. During the NFL Combine he ran a 4.58, which is not good for a Safety. Branch has also shown to be hesitant when it comes to facing a blocker.  However, he does make up for both of these weaknesses with being arguably the hardest hitting Safety in years. Another weakness for Brian is that he does not go for the interception very often, he rather swats the ball. This can and most likely will be coached out of him when he is selected in this year's NFL Draft. 

Favorite Game

My favorite Brian Branch game would have to be the 2022 All-State Sugar Bowl vs the Kansas State Wildcats. During this game Branch recorded 12 TOT, 11- Solo tackles, 1-Sack, and 1-INT. This game would be his biggest game of this year by far.  Brian Branch is a big time player who will show up in big time games. 

 

NFL Comparison 

To me Brian Branch is the next Tyrann Mathieu from LSU. Tyrann was the biggest hitting safety in college football. Just like Tyrann, Brian can read offensive routes very well and can have good closing speed in coverage. The biggest comparison is no doubt the ability to make a highlight hit every tackle. Both players have been able to shock audiences with how quickly they can change a game with just one tackle. Both players had great coverage abilities, as well as man coverage. Coming into the NFL Draft I feel both of them are almost identical, hopefully Branch can live up to the hype of being compared to the “Honey Badger”. 

Dynasty Dilemma: Adam Thielen

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Dynasty Dilemma: Adam Thielen

By Jonathan Walker

 

Free agent receiver Adam Thielen has found a new home. Nine days after the Vikings released him, Thielen has agreed to terms with the Panthers. He announced the deal on Instagram just before the team did. The Panthers need to rebuild their receiving corps after trading DJ Moore to the Bears as part of the deal for the No. 1 overall pick. So where does this put Adam Thielen as far as fantasy football goes? I'm here to give you some things to consider when thinking about Thielen in your dynasty league.

 

 

For the last 3 season Adam has brought in north of 65 receptions, and over 700 yards and 6+ touchdowns every year. Now with him being in Carolina, will his numbers increase? If Carolina signs D.J Chark (which is still a FA), will Adam will go back to being nothing more than a flex play in fantasy? He may not produce the numbers to be a starting WR in fantasy, but he will score enough to be a solid flex player. Also with Carolina having the #1 overall pick, they will most likely bring in a rookie QB. Having a veteran like Thielen playing the slot position, it creates a nice safety blanket for a rookie who is trying to get use to playing in the NFL. Adam Thielen is a great red-zone threat due to his knowledge playing the slot position. As well as knowing where to find the open spot of the defense.

Reasons to buy Adam Thielen his buying price is very low, if you are in a draft he will most likely drop to the later rounds due to his age, and the amount of WR’s there are to draft. Thielen was ranked as the #66 WR last year. Another reason to buy is to fill your flex position. He will get his receptions and yards being a slot WR, and for a flex player that’s is all you are looking for. Who will get me points when I need them? Is the question most asked when looking for flex players.

Adam is your guy, if that is your question during the later rounds of the draft. He has been a great security blanket for his QB. Being able to read a defense and understand where the open spots are and knowing where to be to get the QB out of a bad spot. I feel that the biggest reason to buy Adam is due to the face that Carolina will most likely draft a rookie QB as stated before. Some rookies have a hard time adjusting to the NFL, players are a lot better than what they played in college. Defensives are smarter, and Offensives are hard to understand. Having a nice security blanket in Adam Thielen will help that Rookie QB get acclimated to the NFL.

 

 

If you have Adam should you trade him? Yes, because the ultimate question is do you want to win. If so Adam doesn’t have the production to win fantasy games, he has the production to loose you games. Adam is entering his 9th season in the NFL, so his age is of major concern. It is hard trying to keep up with the younger more fresh WR’s when you are 32 years old. Injuries start to sneak up on you, and you don’t recover as fast. Thielen has been pretty durable throughout his career, but this has to be considered.

Would you count on Adam Thielen as your weekly flex player? Maybe, but why would you draft Thielen for flex when you can draft another TE or RB (which are both deep positions in fantasy). IF you are starting a new startup do you draft Adam? No, there are other flex players that will produce more than Thielen that you can grab later in the draft. Then there is the biggest concern regarding the WR position in Carolina, what happens with DJ Chark? If Carolina signs DJ that means all the passing offense will primarily go through him, leaving Adam on the outside once again.

 

Am I buying or selling? That's the question. The only reason I'd pass on him is if I'm in a new startup dynasty. Otherwise, I'm buying Thielen. The bottom line is he can help you win each week. He can be a solid Flex that costs you pretty much nothing. I've seen him traded for a 3rd round rookie pick. I'd do that all day for a player who can contribute week 1. Thielen is low risk, and worth grabbing on the cheap.