IDP

Week 2 Observations: IDP Edition

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IDP Observations: Week 2

It was an exciting Week two of fantasy football. The IDP community is starting to understand the various schemes teams use and snap share distribution. Week Two has concluded, and we are beginning to see the emergence of some veterans who were terrible in week one and the rise of some younger players as they get more comfortable in their systems. These notes and more in this week's IDP Observations: Week 2 Edition.

Players Who Balled Out this Weekend

Micah Parsons, DE, Dallas

I am convinced that Micah Parsons read my article last week, listened to my "Call to Action," and delivered the production we expect to IDP managers. With two sacks, a forced fumble, and four tackles, Parsons has returned to dominating defenses from many angles and will continue to do so until an offensive coordinator starts to use two linemen to block him; that may be the only way to stop him. Parsons has returned to the elite-level players in IDP.

Danielle Hunter, LB/DE, Minnesota

Danielle Hunter may have been the best player on the field for the Viking's defense against the Eagles on Thursday night. Hunter notched eight total tackles. His impact was felt most by the three sacks he recorded against Jalen Hurts, and Hunter's week one also included seven tackles and one sack. On the season, Hunter has 15 tackles and four sacks. If Hunter has been foolishly left on your IDP waiver wire, grab him and reap the benefits.

Julian Love, S, Seattle

I'll admit I wasn't a huge Julian Love fan heading into this season. I believed Love switching from the Giants and joining a deeper defensive backfield in Seattle would hamper his IDP stats. Then, Love goes out and posts 22 tackles in the first two weeks and a fumble recovery. So far, Love will be a consistent producer of tackles and should also contribute in other categories.

Frankie Luvu, LB, Carolina

In the Panthers' loss to the Saints, Frankie Luvu made every attempt to suppress the Saints. Luvu made nine tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for loss. On the season, Luvu has 14 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Last night was the standard IDP managers expect from Luvu, and I anticipate more nights like last night.

Players on the Upswing

Jonathan Cooper, DL/LB, Denver

Jonathan Cooper showed up BIG in the heartbreaking loss to the Commanders on Sunday. Cooper had eight total tackles, two sacks, and one forced fumble. With only a 52% snapshare this week, let's hope the Broncos give Cooper more opportunities to shine, and those IDP numbers may enter the range of a player who is a "must-start."

Dax Hill, S, Cincinnati

Week one saw Dax Hill post six tackles and one interception. In week two, Hill had 11 total tackles. I like what I see out of Hill, and the Bengals are using Hill on at least 73% of the snaps. If you need help at DB, Hill offers enough upside to roster at this point.

Deommodore Lenoir, DB, San Francisco

In 2022, Deommodore Lenoir had a solid 77-tackle season with one interception and a sack. In 2023, Lenoir quickly started to rack up IDP stats that have caught the attention of many IDP managers through the first two games. Lenoir has 19 tackles and one interception to start the year. With his playing time increasing, Lenoir may establish himself as a solid IDP contributor in deeper leagues.

Players on the Downswing

Lavonte David, LB, Tampa Bay

After week one, IDP owners may have yet to be impressed with Lavonte David's production, but it wasn't horrible. However, some managers may be tempted to cut bait after this week's two-tackle performance. And I fully support that decision. David is not worth rostering at this point. Too many other starting linebackers are worth rostering with a TON more upside than David. Lavonte David may have been an elite IDP player in the past, but that's precisely where his production is: in the past.

Shaquille Leonard, LB, Indianapolis

Shaq Leonard has consistently seen 60% of the snap share through the season's first two games. In game one, Leonard notched eight tackles, and in game two, there were three tackles. 11 total tackles for a linebacker on the field that much is not stellar. Conversely, Zaire Franklin has seen a bit more playing time (70% and 84%) but has also notched 30 tackles and a forced fumble. With Franklin performing at an elite level, Leonard's long-term future is more complex than it once was. Leonard was once automatic to log 120+ tackles a season, but that player no longer appears to exist. Leonard may be a situational linebacker, which will extend his playing career but does not help IDP managers.  

Teammates that Dominated

Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo, LB, Las Vegas

With a combined 24 tackles and two sacks, Robert Spillane and Divine Deablo made every effort to keep the Bills from scoring, but it wasn't enough in the Raiders' 38-10 loss. Although the Raiders' defense as a unit could have been better, Spillane and Deablo can be helpful as pieces in IDP if you are looking for depth pieces.

Quay Walker and De'Vondre Campbell, LB, Green Bay

Thirty-one combined tackles for the Green Bay linebacking duo in week two were solid. Ideally, we see other contributions from interceptions and forced fumbles for IDP. That would have been last week, as Walker had a pick 6 in the Bears game. This duo should be the heart of the Packers' defense and will accumulate a ton of tackles in the process. They need to notch more countable stats to elevate to "must start" in IDP. 

Alonzo Highsmith and T.J. Watt, LB, Pittsburgh

One thing has become clear during Monday Night Football games: Pittsburgh wins. Last night, they won that game because of the dominating defensive performance by Alonzo Highsmith and T.J. Watt. Highsmith began the Steelers' scoring with a 30-yard interception for a touchdown on the first offensive play by the Browns. T.J. Watt sealed the game with a strip-sack of Deshaun Watson, recovered the fumble, and returned it for a touchdown. Combined, Highsmith and Watt had 11 tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, one interception, and two touchdowns. A great game by both IDP mainstays!

Bueller? Bueller?

Nick Bosa, DE, San Francisco

Micah Parsons heard my call to action. Nick Bosa (and a few others ) did not. This past week against the Rams, Bosa had just one tackle and one assist. I'm not recommending dropping Bosa in any format. However, our patience is wearing thin. Let's hope Bosa bounces back against the Giants.

Haason Reddick, DE, Philadelphia

Similarly to Bosa, Haason Reddick has been missing in action this season. The Eagles' defensive line loves to rotate players in and out. So, this season may not replicate last season for IDP owners. With two games in the books, Reddick only has one tackle and ZERO sacks to his credit. Reddick's lack of a fast start will require patience from IDP managers. However, you may have to look elsewhere for your DL spot if weeks like the past two keep happening. I've already seen the social media posts asking, "Is it time to drop Reddick?" Although frustrating, you must be patient with players relying primarily on sacks to accrue IDP points. Let's check back in two weeks to reassess.

Jordan Poyer, DB, Buffalo

Where has Jordan Poyer been for the Buffalo defense? After a so-so first game with seven tackles, game two against the Raiders saw Poyer record just three tackles. For a DB that many expected to be one of the top DBs in IDP, Poyer has not lived up to expectations. His snap share has been down this season. Let's hope he sees the field more in week three and those numbers improve.

Quirky Stat Line of the Week

Tre Brown, S, Seattle

Tre Brown did a little of everything this week, as he recorded 1 sack, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, and 1 touchdown. He did make four total tackles. Talk about checking off all the boxes! Brown has notched games of 61% and 55% snap share. If that number holds (or increases), he may be an exciting flier if you need a DB for your IDP roster.

IDP Man of the Year Stock Watch

I'll list players making a case to be the IDP Man of the Year each week. This is my version of the most outstanding IDP player. Each week, the list will include players who consistently put up great IDP statistics and are in the hunt for the IDP Man of the Year Award.

  1. T.J. Watt, DE/LB, Pittsburgh
  2. Danielle Hunter, DE, Minnesota
  3. Zaire Franklin, LB, Indianapolis
  4. DeForest Buckner, DE, Indianapolis
  5. Alex Highsmith, LB, Pittsburgh

* on the rise: Tre Brown, DB, Seattle; Micah Parsons, DE, Dallas; Frankie Luvu, LB, Carolina

Week 1 Observations: IDP Edition

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Week 1 Observations: IDP Edition

 

Week 1 is officially over. And, just like most fantasy football creators, I have observations of what I saw. We witnessed teams with Super Bowl aspirations lose in week one (Chiefs, Bills, Bengals), and other teams come away with surprising victories (Rams, Jets, Lions).
After digesting all of week one’s results, let’s analyze the IDP developments and their impacts on our fantasy football rosters.

Players that Impressed

Bobby Wagner, LB, Seattle

A player with 19 tackles would be first on the list. What is even more impressive is that Wagner is 33 years old! The next oldest player inside the Top 12 is 28 years old. It is obvious that Bobby Wagner still has a lot of treads left on his tires, and he is a must-start in fantasy. Wagner was my preseason pick for Defensive Player of the Year, and he has not disappointed after one week of play.

Kader Kohou, DeShon Elliot and Jevon Holland, DB, Miami

I was confident that the Dolphin’s defense would have one superlative IDP player from their defensive backfield; I thought his name was Jalen Ramsey. Instead, the Miami defensive backfield has three! Led by Kader Kohou, DeShon Elliot, and Jevon Holland, the Miami defense was patrolled by playmakers all over the field. The game was a shootout and provided plenty of opportunities for the DBs to shine. With 36 total tackles, one sack, and two tackles for loss, these three DBs were almost impossible to stop from making plays. With all three, targeting just one in IDP may be challenging, but Holland and Kohou offer the most in IDP.

Josh Allen, LB, Jacksonville

Entering the season, Josh Allen was a trendy “sleeper” pick. Allen always had a nice blend of tackles and sacks. However, as tackles went up, sacks went down. In week one against the Colts, Allen notched ten tackles and three sacks-a massive game-changer for the Jaguars. If Josh Allen can maintain some semblance of this level of play, he will be mentioned in the same breath as TJ Watt and Micah Parsons. This could be the season Allen puts it all together.

Jessie Bates, DB, Atlanta

Jessie Bates was one of the leaders of the defense in Cincinnati. Moving to Atlanta, that role needed to be clarified. However, after week one, Jessie Bates has declared himself the defensive spark plug. With ten total tackles and two interceptions, Bates was the clear leader on a defense that desperately needed production. Last year, Bates set a career-high with four interceptions and one forced fumble. If Bates can maintain some level of contribution in multiple areas as he did in week one, Bates may be looking at an All-Pro level season.

Players that surprised

Brandon Stephens, CB, Baltimore

The Ravens’ defense has plenty of players that can shine in IDP formats. However, Brandon Stephens was a pleasant surprise for fantasy managers. A 3rd round pick in 2021, Stephens had a solid rookie season and notched 78 total tackles and four passes defended. In 2022, he took a step back and recorded 37 total tackles. It appears Stephens may be back to his rookie form. I do not expect him to record this many tackles every week, but it is conceivable that he could break the 90-tackle mark this season with some contributions in tackles for loss and passes defended.

Germaine Pratt, LB, Cincinnati

Germaine Pratt has been a solid, dependable linebacker in the NFL. However, in IDP circles, he has been mediocre. A linebacker who only contributes in one statistical category does not make a significant mark as an IDP player. In week one, Pratt recorded 11 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. Pratt needs to be rostered in your league, so act fast! I am predicting a breakout season for Pratt in 2023.

Players I “felt” could Break Out and Did!

Jermaine Johnson, DE, New York Jets

I was as big of a Jermaine Johnson truther as there can be entering the season. In his 49% snap share, Johnson recorded five total tackles and one sack. If his snap share rises to 60% to 65%, he can put up huge numbers for fantasy purposes. For now, let’s bask in the glow that Johnson started week one with a strong game and hope his Jets defense can continue to provide him with opportunities to shine.

Reed Blankenship, S, Philadelphia

After a small sample size last year, Reed Blankenship earned the starting spot after CJ Gardner Johnson departed for the Lions. Blankenship is an undrafted free agent in his second year with the Eagles. In 2022, Blankenship recorded 34 total tackles with one interception. With the starting job his to lose heading into the 2023 season, Blankenship rewarded fantasy managers that invested early with 12 total tackles and two passes defended. Blankenship is well on his way to an outstanding IDP season. Blankenship has found himself with a rib injury and has been ruled out of this Thursday night’s match up against the Vikings.

Terrel Bernard, LB, Buffalo

After Tremaine Edmunds departed for Chicago, Bernard was the savvy IDP manager’s pick to inherit the volume vacated by the departed Edmunds. However, some thought rookie Dorian Williams might also pop. After week one, Terrel Bernard and Matt Milano look to be the tandem policing the middle for the Bills. Bernard tallied ten total tackles against the Jets. To elevate to the upper tier of IDP linebackers, Bernard must also contribute in other areas. If Bernard is available in your league, run, don’t walk, to grab him.

Ernest Jones, LB, Los Angeles Rams

When the Rams allowed Bobby Wagner to walk, many wondered what the Rams were thinking. Wagner was the key to the defense and would be missed greatly by a defense missing playmakers. Jones tallied eight tackles against the Seahawks in week one, with three tackles for a loss. In 2022, Jones tallied 114 tackles. On most teams, a player notching those tackle numbers is usually a focal point of the defense. However, Jones played alongside the future Hall of Famer Bobby Wagner for the last two years. Now, it is Jones’ turn to lead the Rams’ defense. For IDP, Jones will need to contribute in more areas other than tackles to be a genuinely elite IDP linebacker.
For now, grab him in all formats.

Jordan Whitehead, DB, New York Jets

Jordan Whitehead was one of Josh Allen’s favorite targets on Monday night, connecting on three passes. That previous sentence would be all right, except that Whitehead played for the opposing team. In addition to the three interceptions, Whitehead also notched two tackles. Teams may quickly learn that if you try to avoid Sauce Gardner, other players on the Jets defense can also make plays. I anticipate those types of interception numbers only a few times a season, but it shows Whitehead can read the quarterback and make plays.

Players that did not break out (yet?)

Devin Lloyd, LB, Jacksonville

I was a big fan of Devin Lloyd’s heading into this season. And I am not entirely abandoning him as a player I invested in on my Dynasty rosters. However, week one was a disappointment. Lloyd totaled three tackles and one fumble recovered. Those stats were not horrible, but coming from a linebacker, we need more from a player with a 72% snap share. Lloyd is a hold in Redraft formats, but if a similar performance like that occurs next week, Lloyd will be a release candidate.

Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Detroit

Malcolm Rodriguez, the breakout star of last season’s Hard Knocks, saw his field time diminish in week one to just a 14% snap share. In that time, he only made one tackle. The Lions will use a three-safety look, as Alex Anzalone is the only linebacker locked into a steady snap share. Barring any injuries, Rodriguez is no longer worth rostering.

 

Players that disappointed

Micah Parsons, LB/DE, Dallas

This post is about something other than whether you should trade or drop him. That would be a ridiculous response after one week. However, we were hoping for more than three total tackles and a sack for a player who was the first defensive player taken in many IDP drafts. He is a great player and should rebound, but let’s hope he reads this and it motivates him to better things.

Myles Garrett, DE, Cleveland

For the same reasons I listed Micah Parsons, I listed Myles Garrett. For a Top 3 DE in most formats, three total tackles and one sack were underwhelming for Garrett.

Nick Bosa, DE, San Francisco

A pattern with these top-tier defensive lineman is that their success revolves around their ability to cause havoc in the backfield. With only two tackles against Pittsburgh, better days are ahead for Bosa. Let’s hope we don’t see offenses chipping on Bosa to the point where he may not warrant the high draft capital most managers invested.

Kyle Hamilton, S, Baltimore

Besides notching three total tackles, Hamilton did not add any countable stats for IDP managers, as he was on the field for 76% of the defensive snaps. I expect a bounce back from Hamilton against the Bengals (hey, the Browns looked good against them), but monitor his output closely. At 6’4″ and 220 pounds, Hamilton is a prototype for modern-day safeties who can also move into the box and add support. Hamilton is capable of contributing in many ways as an IDP star.

Haason Reddick, DE, Philadelphia

Haason Reddick terrorized quarterbacks last year as he recorded 16 sacks in 2022. And although he can certainly return to that form again in 2023, his first game was not the start to make that goal a reality. Reddick tallied only one tackle against the Patriots. I expected better for a DE on the field for 58% of the snaps. Similarly to Parsons, Garrett, and Bosa, I expect a bounce back; I hope it comes sooner rather than later.

Injured Players to monitor

Jalen Pitre, S, Houston

Early in the game against the Ravens, Jalen Pitre took a blow to the chest and left the game due to bruised lungs. Pitre recorded two total tackles before exiting the game. Many IDP managers have high hopes for Pitre this season; let’s hope he can recover quickly and return to the field.

Nakobe Dean, LB, Philadelphia

While on the field, Nakobe Dean provided plenty of reasons for IDP managers to be excited about this season. In his 49% snap share, Dean made seven total tackles. However, Dean left the game in a walking boot and was placed on the IR. It will be four more weeks before we can see this promising linebacker on the field again.

Quay Walker, LB, Green Bay

One of the most impactful players to hit the injury report, Quay Walker, sustained a concussion in the Packers’ week one game against Chicago. On a 49% snap share, Walker had four total tackles, an interception, and a touchdown. IDP managers had a lot of high hopes if they punted linebackers and drafted Walker as their LB1. Let’s hope he returns to the field soon…

IDP Waiver Wire Rankings: Week 2

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IDP Waiver Wire Rankings: Week 2

 

Week 1 was wild to say the least. It was packed full of excitement and disappointment. It seemed as if defensive players were scoring as much, if not more than offensive players in fantasy. There were plenty of sacks and interceptions to go around. There were also plenty of IDPs who surprised us with their performances as well. With that being said, I’m here to give you my top IDP Waiver Wire adds heading into Week 2.

RANK PLAYER TEAM POSITION
1Drake JacksonSFDL1
2Denico AutryTENDL2
3Germaine PrattCINLB1
4Dorance ArmstrongDALDL3
5Denzel PerrymanHOULB2
6Demario DavisNOLB3
7Carl GrandersonNODL4
8Jordan WhiteheadNYJDB1
9Trent McDuffieKCDB2
10Arden KeyTENLB4
11Dax HillCINDB3
12Derrick BrownCARDL5
13Keisean NixonGBDB4
14Darius SlayPHIDB5
15Andre CiscoJAXDB6
16Justin MadubuikeBALDL6
17Jadeveon ClowneyBALDL7
18Jonathan GreenardHOUDL8
19Nate HobbsLVDB7
20Jack GibbensTENLB5
21EJ SpeedINDLB6
22Robert SpillaneLVLB7
23Devonte WyattGBDL9
24Dennis GardeckARZLB8
25Yannick NgakoueCHIDL10

IDP Dynasty Dilemma: T.J. Edwards

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IDP Dynasty Dilemma: T.J. Edwards

 

Although their season ended with a 38 - 35 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super  Bowl LVII, the Philadelphia Eagles are coming off what may have been one of the franchise’s  best seasons on record. However, this offseason has been a tough one for the Eagles, as they  saw a number of key defensive players walk in free agency, such as Marcus Epps (S), Javon  Hargrave (DT), and Kyzir White (LB). Today, I’ll focus on 3-year starting linebacker, T.J. Edwards, and share my thoughts on his fantasy value for this upcoming season and beyond.  The Eagles also lost Edwards in free agency when he signed a 3-year $19.5M contract with  the Chicago Bears, which included a $4.5M signing bonus and $7.9M in guaranteed money (@spotrac). 

 

 

REASON TO BUY

 

CONSISTENCY AND DURABILITY

Edwards has accumulated 382 solo tackles and 726 combined tackles in 98 games as  a starter, dating back to his redshirt freshman season with the Badgers in Wisconsin. You may  say we shouldn’t be looking at his college career when considering adding him to your Dynasty lineup, but his stat line from his two most recent seasons will reassure you. In 2021,  Edwards played in all 16 games, recording 64 solo and 130 combined tackles. This past season, he had career highs in his 17 starts with 99 solo and 159 combined tackles.  

I’m not sure which stat is more impressive: his consistency since his college debut,  managing to average 7.4 tackles per start, or his ability to stay out of the medical tent (having  only missed a total of 4 games with a hamstring injury in 2020) in his 8 seasons between Wisconsin and Philadelphia. 

 

 

REASON TO SELL

 

LACK OF THE "BIG PLAY FACTOR"

If there’s one thing missing from Edwards arsenal that may turn you away from affording him a roster spot on your dynasty team, it’s going to be the lack of the Big Play Factor  (BPF).  

Edwards has never been known as a quarterback hunter, and his stat line proves it.  With a career high of 2 sacks in any given season, and a total of 5 over his 4 seasons as a  pro, his numbers aren’t exactly what a starting off-the-ball linebacker, in his prime, is gloating  about in the locker room. 

Edwards also isn’t considered a ballhawk in coverage situations. Having led the linebacker group in Philadelphia last year with 1,041 snaps played, he spent more time in coverage than he’s been used to. This allowed him to see a career high of 7 passes defended, yet  he couldn’t come away with a single interception. 

 

 

VERDICT

Yes, Edwards is in a new situation, but he’s heading back to familiar territory, being a  Chicago native and growing up a Bears fan just 55 miles from Soldier Field. He won’t be the  only new addition to a revamped Bears’ linebacker room to help form the group’s core moving  forward, as he’ll be paired with Tremaine Edmunds (2-time pro-bowler and former 2018 Buffalo Bill first round pick). 

Living in a salary cap world like the NFL, no good GM wants to have an exorbitant  amount of cap watching from the sidelines. With team defensive snap counts being very similar (Eagles 1,106 vs. Bears 1,088, per footballguys.com), I would expect Edwards to have similar playing time to what he saw most recently with the Eagles. For this reason alone, he can  be a great safety net linebacker on your roster who you can count on week in and week out.  Given his history, you can rely on him to show up and stay healthy providing your dynasty roster with a consistent high floor of production with only upside from there.  

 

Like matching a quality wine to your favorite meal, pair Edwards with a high upside  rookie or second-year player like David Ojabo, who may become more of a Big Play Factor  (BPF) style, off-the-ball linebacker. Otherwise, you can take a risk on a veteran guy like Randy  Gregory. He may have trouble staying on the field because of his injury history, but comes  with a ton of BPF if he can stay on it. In the end, you’ll sleep well knowing you bought T.J.  Edwards. 

 

BUY

Same Faces, New Places: IDP Edition

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Same Faces, New Places: IDP Edition

 

 

Every year, free agency changes the NFL landscape as teams try to improve their deficiencies. This past off-season, many top-tier defensive players left their previous teams for new ones. Players like: Bobby Wagner, Tremaine Edmunds, Javon Hargrave, and Jessie Bates all changed teams hoping for a better playing situation or a more lucrative contract. With those moves, the "same faces" have found "new places" to call home. Will their new teams provide them the same opportunities to produce like key IDP players as their previous teams? We will look into some familiar faces in new places as we analyze their current situations and outlooks heading into the 2023 NFL season.

 

DEFENSIVE LINE

 

Zach Allen, DL, Denver

Last Season, Zach Allen played the opposite of JJ Watt to form the pash rush for the Arizona Cardinals. Last year, Allen recorded 5.5 sacks (career high), 47 total tackles, and 8 passes defended. Now, Allen joins a historically strong defense in Denver. When Bradley Chubb was dealt away last year to the Miami Dolphins, the Broncos pass rush was not as effective. With the hiring of Sean Payton as Head Coach, and Vance Joseph returning as the Defensive Coordinator, the Broncos are hopeful this once-feared defense returns to its former glory. The hope is Allen with the edge rushers Randy Gregory, Brian Browning, and Drew Sanders, can bring back a pass rush to the Broncos the AFC West will fear. Zach Allen is a talented player that can notch double-digit sacks. If his total tackle numbers stay around 50, he will be a valuable addition to the Denver Broncos and your IDP lineups as a 2nd or 3rd DL in your IDP lineups.

 

 

Marcus Davenport, DL, Minnesota

Coming off his worst season yet, Marcus Davenport is heading to Minnesota to resurrect his career. Last year, Davenport notched 29 total tackles and only a half sack. Davenport is capable of double-digit sacks for the Vikings in the proper situation. Danielle Hunter hopes to pair with Davenport to create a similar sack attack that he had with recently departed Za’Darius Smith; last year, Smith and Hunter tallied 20.5 total sacks. Davenport may only project to reach 40 total tackles, but if he can return to his 2021 form and approach 9 sacks, Davenport can prove to be a valuable depth player in your IDP lineups and a solid compliment to Danielle Hunter.

 

 

Javon Hargrave, DL, San Francisco

Last year, Javon Hargrave and the rest of the Philadelphia Eagles defensive unit, combined to terrorize opposing offenses after they notched 70 total sacks; falling 2 sacks short of the 1984 Chicago Bears. Hargrave has now joined an equally talented defense in San Francisco. The 49ers hope Javon can approach last year’s sack total of 11 sacks and provide Nick Bosa with a viable “Robin” to his own “Batman.” Hargrave has been a solid tackles contributor, reaching at least 60 total tackles in each of the last two years. Hargrave is capable of matching those numbers for his new team and can even exceed those numbers as Bosa forces opposing quarterbacks from the edge. I foresee Hargrave notching an elite season for the 49ers and an upper-tier season for fantasy owners.  Hargrave will at least approach his numbers in Philadelphia with 65 total tackles and 8 to 10 sacks.

 

 

Za’Darius Smith, DL, Cleveland

Za’Darius Smith is now with his third team in the last three years. He was a Green Bay Packer in 2021, then a Minnesota Viking in 2022, and now a Cleveland Brown for the 2023 season. For his career, Smith has recorded 54.5 sacks; reaching double-digit sacks 3 times. Although Smith has faced some injuries the last few years, he looks to be in top shape during OTA’s this off-season. The Cleveland Browns hope Smith and Myles Garrett can form a duo that dominates the AFC North. Last year, Garrett posted 16 sacks, but the next closest player in sacks for Cleveland was Taven Bryan with 3. If Smith can record between 40 and 50 total tackles and elevate his sack numbers back to previous levels, Smith can be a valuable asset in most IDP formats. I believe 42 tackles and 8 sacks are in Smith’s future for this year.

 

 

LINEBACKER

 

The Twitter World has spoken and believes Tremaine Edmunds is in the best situation to continue as an elite IDP performer in 2023.

Keep reading to see who I believe has the most advantageous situation to return home dividends for your fantasy football team.

 

 

Tremaine Edmunds and TJ Edwards, LB, Chicago

Edmunds leaving Buffalo was a surprise. However, with younger players in the position, it was time for Edmunds to move on from Buffalo. In my heart, I believe the Bears allowed Roquan Smith to move on, only to realize how essential the position (and Smith) was to the team.

Thus, the Bears signed Edmunds and TJ Edwards to fill the void. Similar to Buffalo, the Eagles felt a younger player (Nakobe Dean) was ready to ascend into a starter's position. This forced Edwards to find employment elsewhere. Tremaine Edmunds, in only 13 games last year, recorded 102 tackles and 1 interception. TJ Edwards tallied 159 tackles in 2022. Neither player has contributed in sacks for fantasy managers, which should remain the same in 2023. The Bears do not “get after the qb” as well as many other teams and this should produce high tackle numbers for Edmunds and Edwards. If your league uses tackle-dominant scoring, then Edmunds and Edwards are both worthy of being starters in your IDP lineups.

 

 

Bobby Wagner, LB, Seattle

It is said, “When no one else cares to listen, return home to a place of understanding.” I believe that applies to Bobby Wagner perfectly. Yes, he won a Super Bowl with the Rams. However, I never felt he was appreciated for his play in Los Angeles as he was in Seattle.  Bobby Wagner was a favorite of Seattle’s “12th Man.” Consequently, Wagner departs the Rams and returns home to Seattle; a place that understands him well. In 2022, Wagner grabbed 140 total tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 interceptions; which placed Wagner inside the top 10 in most IDP scoring formats. With Cody Barton leaving for the Commanders and Jordyn Brooks recovering from an ACL injury, Wagner will resume as the center of the Seahawks' defense. In redraft formats, Wanger is an absolute smash this year. At 32 years old, Wagner should be on the decline of his career. However, Wagner has NEVER recorded less than 100 total tackles in his career. For those playing in dynasty leagues, I project at least 2 more highly successful seasons before you will see a decline in production from Wagner. I just love the fit for Wagner back in Seattle. And, I think Wagner returns to the DPOY discussion this season and my choice to be an elite IDP performer.

 

Want to add Wagner to your IDP lineup?  According to the Dynasty Pros Trade Calculator, a trade of Greg Dulcich or Romeo Doubs for Bobby Wagner is a “fair trade.”  Check out our exclusive Trade Calculator to input your own proposed trade to see if your acquisition of Bobby Wagner is fair.

 

 

Kyzir White, LB, Arizona

The third Eagle to appear on this list, Kyzir White, heads to Arizona for the upcoming 2023 season. After recording 144 total tackles in his breakout season in 2021 for the Los Angeles Chargers, White had a solid 2022 for the Eagles. White tallied 110 total tackles last year; as White and Edwards patrolled the middle of the field and racked up tackles. I’m not 100% sold that White can duplicate that production. The Arizona defensive line is not capable of occupying blockers in the same way they did in Philadelphia. I am not excited about White’s prospects as an IDP contributor. If you start 2 to 3 linebackers, Kyzir White is a fringe starter. White is great in coverage, but his smaller stature will not benefit him in his tackle totals if blockers get to his level. Proceed with caution when drafting Kyzir White!

 

 

Drue Tranquill, LB, Kansas City

In 2022, Tranquill burst onto the IDP scene with 146 total tackles and 5 sacks; both career highs. It appeared that Tranquill was everywhere for the Los Angeles Chargers last year. This year, the Chiefs will not ask Tranquill to do as much. as his previous team. So, any expectations of a repeat of last year's numbers will disappoint fantasy managers for the 2023 season. Playing alongside fellow IDP stars Nick Bolton, Chris Jones, and L’Jarius Sneed, Tranquill will have a decrease in tackles and sacks. I still believe Tranquill is a viable IDP starter, just don’t expect another top 10 IDP season from Tranquill in 2023. My projections have Tranquill at 105 total tackles and 3.5 sacks.

 

 

Kaden Elliss, LB, Atlanta

As a Saint in 2022, Elliss tallied 78 total tackles and 7 sacks. For the Atlanta Falcons in 2023, they will pair Elliss with Troy Anderson to form a dynamic linebacking tandem. Anderson should log more tackles, but Elliss is a great blitzing player that could match (or even exceed) his 7 sacks from last year. It all depends on the usage by the Falcons. I can see Elliss playing both inside and outside linebacker. With his versatility, Kaden could elevate his play enough to warrant starting him in most IDP formats. For now, I would not count on Elliss as an IDP starter. I believe a starting linebacker in IDP either needs to be an elite pass rusher and notch 12+ sacks or record over 100 total tackles in combination with the other stats.  However, he is a great “shot” play that warrants a roster spot. In dynasty formats, Kaden has a tremendous amount of upside and should be rostered based on that potential.

 

 

DEFENSIVE BACK

 

Jessie Bates, DB, Atlanta

In many ways, Bates was the heart and soul of Cincinnati’s defense. After signing a contract with the Falcons, he looks ready to assume that role again. Teaming up with Richie Grant to form an IDP super group in the defensive backfield, Bates hopes to post similar numbers he had in 2022 where he tallied 71 total tackles, 4 interceptions, and 8 passes defended. If your league scoring rewards points for passes defended, Bates is a viable starter. However, if your scoring system leans more on tackles, Bates is a fringe flex player at best. 

 

 

CJ Gardner-Johnson, DB, Detroit

The last Eagle to appear on this list is CJ Gardner-Johnson. After tying for the league lead in interceptions with 6, CJGJ was forced to find a new team. After struggling to find a long-term contract, CJGJ signed another 1-year deal with the Lions. CJGJ showed solid tackle numbers last year as he recorded 67 total tackles in only 12 games. Will CJGJ be able to replicate that type of production through an entire 17-game season? The Lions are banking on it! There have even been rumors that CJGJ has been working as a slot corner for the Lions in off-season workouts. This looks to be a situation where the Lions are going to find every way possible to keep CJ on the field. The Lions have a well-stacked secondary (that includes Kerby Joseph and Cameron Sutton) and it may be hard for so many players to excel in IDP formats. If your league only starts 1 to 2 defensive backs, other DBs may have more potential than CJGJ and you may want to pass on rostering CJGJ. However, in deeper leagues, or in a situation where you “punted” DBs, CJGJ offers enough upside to take the risk.

 

 

Stephen Gilmore, DB, Dallas

Many people applauded the trade that acquired Stephen Gilmore to the Dallas Cowboys. From a fantasy perspective, Gilmore is not the ideal IDP candidate. You may ask, “Why is that? Isn’t Gilmore an elite cornerback?” And the answer is: Yes, Stephen Gilmore is an elite cover corner. And because of those elite skills, many teams throw the opposite way. Last year, Gilmore posted his highest total tackles in his career with 66 but only had 2 interceptions. Going to Dallas means Gilmore gets to play opposite Trevon Diggs; also an elite cornerback. This should force opposing teams to at least play Gilmore and Diggs straight up; no longer avoiding one side of the field. This will provide more opportunities for interceptions and passes defended. If your league uses passes defended, then Gilmore now becomes a more viable option in IDP with the increased opportunities. If your league focuses on tackles and interceptions, Gilmore is a great depth pick and can be used for spot starts.

 

 

Julian Love, DB, Seattle

Julian Love had a breakout season with the NY Giants last year; recording 116 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, and 2 interceptions. Love scored double-digit fantasy points in 6 games last year. With those types of stats, how can a player’s value go down the following year? Well, Love chose to go to the STACKED defensive backfield in Seattle. Last year’s rookie breakout star was Tariq Woolen; who notched 63 tackles and 6 interceptions. In addition, the Seahawks should get All-Decade Performer, Jamal Adams, back from injury. I believe the Seahawks are concerned that Adams may not be ready to return to action at the start of the season, or if he does, may not be the same player. So, the Seahawks signed the ascending Love to ease that situation. Not to mention, Quandre Diggs (who had 71 tackles last year) and the 1st-round draft pick, Devon Witherspoon are also slated to play. Currently, there are not enough reps for me to feel great about Julian Love being an IDP contributor on your fantasy team. However, if anything in this situation changes and Love is in line for at least a 50%-60%, snap share, he has shown the ability to produce. Proceed with caution when it comes to Julian Love in fantasy for the 2023 season.

IDP 101: The Dynasty Pros Way

by

IDP 101: The Dynasty Pros Way

by Bob Miller

 

IDP (Individual Defensive Player) leagues are growing more and more in popularity. If you are, or planning to play in an IDP League, now is the time to get familiar with:

  1. How to play
  2. How to prepare
  3. Who to target
  4. When to target certain players

If you have never played in an IDP league, they can be confusing if you just jump into one without knowing what you are getting yourself into. Here at Dynasty Pros Football, we have devised a scoring system that is currently used by thousands of IDP Leagues today. So, if you are starting a new league from scratch or are having trouble with calibrating your scoring system, feel free to use ours.

 

Dynasty Pros IDP Scoring Table:

Action Points Action Points
Tackle1Forced Fumble2
Assisted Tackle.5Fumble Recovery3
Sack4Defensive Touchdown6
Tackle for Loss3Blocked FG/Extra Point2
Interception5Blocked Punt2
Pass Defended1Safety4
Kick Return Yards.10 per yardPunt Return Yards.10 per yard

How to Play

The best place to start is knowing your IDP League scoring setup, and what positions are designated for each player. That then allows you to understand what players best fit your team. For example: Joey Bosa may be designated a LB in real life, but your fantasy league may designate him as a DE. That designation can drastically change how he is valued.

 

 

How to Prepare

The next step is to create a ranking system that is unique for you. One website may tell you one thing and another website may tell you another, so do your research and use what is best for you. We offer a well thought out ranking system, so take a look and see if it helps you.

https://dynastyprosfootball.com/defensive-lineman-rankings/

 

 

Who to Target and When to Target Them

This can be tricky, that is why it is important to do your research and understand your league’s player designation and scoring system.

 

 

Defensive Lineman

Elite defensive ends are where we would recommend you start, since there are very few of them. Our recommended scoring system rewards 4 points for a sack and 3 points for a tackle for loss. This makes players like Nick Bosa, Myles Garrett, and Maxx Crosby extremely valuable and possible league winners, so target them before you target guys at other defensive positions. One of the main focuses of an NFL Defense is pass rushing and sacks, as it should be in IDP Leagues as well.

 

 

Dual Eligible Edge Rushers

What's one of the most exciting plays on defense? Sacks, of course. So, if you are playing IDPs, then sacks need to be rewarded as well. Players like Micah Parsons and TJ Watt are far more valuable in the Dynasty Pros Scoring System. Some websites that rank IDPs may not even have them in their top 20 overall. That's crazy. How can a player like TJ Watt, the 2021 league leader in sacks (22.5) not be ranked as an elite IDP in other IDP rankings? Why even play with IDPs if you don't reward big plays?

Keep an eye on dual eligible players as you can use them as a defensive lineman or linebacker. That increases their value as well.

 

Linebackers

Linebackers are next. Make sure to rank your Linebackers in a tier ranking. This allows you to properly value them and know who you should target first. Tackles reward 1 point each and assisted tackles earn you .5 points. Linebackers Roquan Smith and Foyesade Oluokun are in Tier One (possibly the only LBs in tier one) and are considerably more valuable than Tier Two linebackers like Frankie Luvu and Nick Bolton. When drafting linebackers you'll want to target the ones who accumulate a lot of tackles. Those are mostly your inside linebackers.

 

 

Defensive Backs

Defensive Backs should be down on your list, unless someone like Derwin James, Jalen Pitre, or Marcus Jones are available. Safeties tend to be more rosterable over Cornerbacks in IDP leagues because of tackle opportunities.

Cornerbacks also have value in our scoring system as well with interceptions being 5 points and passes defended are 1 point each. Cornerbacks tend to be more "Hit or Miss" since they get less opportunities to make plays. Our scoring system also uses return yards, so defensive backs who are returners should be rostered.

 

New England Patriots Cornerback Marcus Jones was used in multiple ways last season and put up 190.5 fantasy points. He finished number one for all defensive backs. Let's take a look at his stats:

DEFENSIVE STATS

Tackles Tackles for Loss Passes Defended Interceptions Touchdowns
392721

OFFENSIVE STATS

Receptions Rec Yards TDs
4781

SPECIAL TEAMS STATS

Kick Returns Kick Return Yards TDs Punt Returns Punt Return Yards TDs
276450293621

As you see, Marcus Jones was used in many different ways. With our scoring setup, Jones piled up 190.5 fantasy points vs only 93.5 on Sleeper's default IDP settings. We should be getting those fantasy points.

As a matter of fact, last season five of our top ten scoring defensive backs were actually cornerbacks. Take a look:

 

  1. Marcus Jones, CB (190.5)
  2. Jalen Pitre, S (174)
  3. Demond King, CB (160.4)
  4. L'Jarius Sneed, CB (155.5)
  5. Keisean Nixon, CB (148.4)
  6. Isaiah Simmons, S (144.5)
  7. Rayshawn Jenkins, S (143.5)
  8. Jalen Ramsey, CB (143.5)
  9. Talanoa Hufanga, S (142)
  10. Donovan Wilson, S (141.5)

 

As you see above, cornerbacks provide plenty of value in our set up. If you choose to use our scoring, you can draft them with confidence.

 

 

I hope this article helps your IDP League. Be sure to keep up with defensive players in an IDP league as much as you would offensive players. There could be some studs left on the waiver wire if people aren't paying close enough attention. You could be a big time winner if you are keeping tabs.