Jets

Bob Miller’s 2021 NFL Mock Draft

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by Bob Miller

 

1. Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevor Lawrence (QB - Clemson)

Do I really need to give a reason? He's the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck. Done.

2. NY Jets - Zach Wilson (QB - BYU)

Wilson's athletic ability, accuracy from the pocket and on the run, and leadership makes him a no brainer here for the Jets.

3. San Francisco 49ers - Justin Fields (QB - Ohio State)

The 49ers play Russell Wilson and Kyler Murray twice a year. They know what kind of a problem that type of quarterback is to defend. San Francisco decides that they need one of those QBs as well.

4. Denver Broncos - Trey Lance (QB - North Dakota State) Trade w/ Atlanta

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a trade! Atlanta trades the 4th pick to the Denver Broncos. After Denver failed to trade for Deshaun Watson, they decide that they won't fail again. They move up to get the their man, a mobile quarterback with a big arm for those cold games. Trey Lance fits that perfectly. Teddy Bridgewater is not their future, Trey Lance is.

5. Cincinnati Bengals - Ja’Marr Chase (WR - LSU)

Lots of mock drafts have Oregon LT Penei Sewell going here to the Bengals. Not mine. Ja'Marr Chase is the undisputed #1 wide receiver in this draft. Tackle is deeper is this draft than the past few years. They'll get one in the 2nd or 3rd. Cincinnati just can't pass on the opportunity to reunite Joe Burrow and his favorite WR. 

6. Miami Dolphins - Kyle Pitts (TE - Florida)

The Dolphins are thrilled to get Kyle Pitts. This once in a generation TE talent is just what they need to ensure that Tua Tagovailoa has every opportunity to succeed.

7. New England Patriots - Mac Jones (QB - Alabama) Trade w/ Detroit

We have our 2nd trade of the day! Detroit has been targeting WR Jaylen Waddle here for quite some time, but New England makes an offer that Detroit can't refuse. The Patriots get their guy! Jones needs the right situation to be successful in the NFL. What better situation to be in than being coached by Bill Belichick.

8. Carolina Panthers - Penei Sewell (LT - Oregon)

Sewell has dropped far enough. Carolina is in desperate need of a LT. Sewell starts day one and is the staple of their offensive line for the next decade.

9. Atlanta Falcons - Patrick Surtain II (CB - Alabama)

Defense is the priority for Atlanta. They traded back from pick #4 knowing that they were going to get one of the best corners available. They just happen to land the absolute best corner in this year's draft.

10. Dallas Cowboys - Jaycee Horn (CB - South Carolina)

Dallas fans are left disappointed after Patrick Surtain II gets sniped the pick before them. With cornerback being a major priority they take the best corner available. Horn is fast, physical, and will step in and start day one.

11. NY Giants - Jaelan Phillips (EDGE - Miami)

Phillips is arguably the most talented edge rusher in this class. He has had some injuries but is absolutely worth taking at pick #11. He will fill the void needed since Jason Pierre-Paul left years ago.

12. Philadelphia Eagles - Devonta Smith (WR - Alabama)

A dream come true for Philadelphia Eagles fans. They are in dire need for a WR, so what better than the unstoppable Heisman Trophy Winner. He is a bit undersized, but he's played that way his entire career. Congrats to Jaylen Hurts on getting a shiny new toy.

13. LA Chargers - Rashawn Slater (LT - Northwestern)

Los Angeles failed to land LT Orlando Brown Jr. from the Ravens. They didn't want to give what Baltimore was asking, because they knew they could land their franchise LT in this draft. Slater will be a very good left tackle in the NFL protecting Justin Herbert's blind side for years to come.

14. Minnesota Vikings - Kwity Paye (EDGE - Michigan)

Minnesota doesn’t have a second-round pick this year, so trading back is definitely a possibility. Adding a pass-rusher with this type of agility and strength opposite of Danielle Hunter may be just too hard to pass up.

15. Detroit Lions - Jaylen Waddle (WR - Alabama)

How about that. Detroit trades back with the hopes that Waddle would still be available, and he is. Waddle is a weapon that Detroit will use in many different ways. With the loss of Kenny Golladay via free agency, Waddle will targeted early and often.

16. Arizona Cardinals - Caleb Farley (CB - Virginia Tech)

With a glaring hole in the secondary left by Patrick Peterson, Arizona has to walk out of the first two rounds with a CB. Farley would have been a top-10 pick, but has fallen a bit due to the back injury concerns. Arizona believes that the reward outweighs the risk here.

17. Las Vegas Raiders - Micah Parsons (LB - Penn State)

This just makes too much sense. The Raiders need major help at linebacker, and Parsons is the best LB in this draft. Character issues prevents Parsons from being taken in the top 10, but that's not a concern for GM Mike Mayock. Jon Gruden may hurt himself running to the phone to call in this pick.

18. Miami Dolphins - Azeez Ojulari (EDGE - Georgia)

Azeez Ojulari is an edge defender with incredible speed and explosiveness. His upside is just to good for Miami to pass up.

19.Washington - Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB - Notre Dame)

Washington is very thin at LB. JOK is an extremely fast linebacker that can line up against slot receivers and deliver a big pop to outside runs. This combined with his leadership makes this a big get for the Football Team.

20. Chicago Bears - Christian Darrisaw (LT - Virginia Tech)

Chicago considers going with WR Rashod Bateman here, but LT is a bigger need for the Bears. Darrisaw is a top tier OT, and is too good of a value here to pass up. Chicago can grab a WR in the next couple of rounds.

21. Indianapolis Colts - Alijah Vera-Tucker (OT – USC)

Left Tackle is by far the biggest need for the Colts, and Vera-Tucker is a versatile, athletic, and strong lineman that can line up anywhere. That won't matter as the Colts will plug him in at LT immediately.

22. Tennessee Titans - Rashod Bateman (WR - Minnesota)

The Titans "had" 2 major needs: Pass rush and wide receiver. They addressed the pass rushing need via free agency by signing Bud Dupree and Denico Autry. Now they need to replace the hole at WR with Corey Davis leaving for New York. They get a solid replacement in Rashod Bateman.

23. NY Jets - Greg Newsome (CB- Northwestern)

Cornerback is a major weakness for the Jets. Head Coach Robert Saleh is going to be thrilled that he lands a talent such as Newsome here.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Gregory Rousseau (EDGE - Miami)

Pittsburgh has to replace EDGE with the loss of Bud Dupree. Rousseau is an absolute freak. He is 6'6/260 and has incredible reach. He has tremendous length for the position, and he's still building out his frame. He is still a little raw, but his upside is amazing.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevon Moehrig (S - TCU)

The best safety in this draft falls to the team that needs him the most. Jacksonville can use quite a bit of help on defense, and they get it here. Moehrig has great acceleration and closes on the ball quickly. He's a playmaker that Jacksonville desperately needs.

26. Cleveland Browns - Zaven Collins (LB - Tulsa)

Collins is a big, physical, and mobile linebacker that covers the middle of the field. He is fantastic against the run, which Cleveland will need to help them get over the hump against teams like Baltimore. He fills a need for Cleveland.

27. Baltimore Ravens - Joe Tryon (EDGE - Washington)

Baltimore has 3 holes to fill: EDGE, OT, and WR. Joe Tryon has elite upside as a pass rusher and will make an immediate impact for the Ravens. He opted out of the 2020 season, but his 2019 tape is fantastic. He has the potential to produce double digit sacks his rookie year in that Baltimore defense.

28. New Orleans Saints - Asante Samuel Jr. (CB - Florida State)

We all know about the Saints' salary cap situation. I wouldn't be surprised to see New Orleans trade back here, but their secondary is the top priority. They are in bad shape behind Marshon Lattimore, so drafting Samuel here makes all the sense in the world.

29. Green Bay Packers - Terrace Marshall (WR - LSU)

It's no secret that Green Bay needs help at WR behind Davante Adams. Marshall has size, speed, and great hands. He is a big target that is a mismatch for opposing corners. He will be a welcomed addition to the Packers offense.

30. Buffalo Bills - Joseph Ossai (EDGE - Texas)

I almost went with Najee Harris here, but EDGE is a bigger need for this team. They can get a RB in the next rounds. Ossai has a high motor and  high upside. He has great size and a very strong lower body. He is built for the NFL, and should be a solid EDGE defender that the Bills need.

31. Baltimore Ravens - Teven Jenkins (OT - Oklahoma State)

The Ravens were really hoping that Rashod Bateman or Terrace Marshall would fall to them here, but unfortunately that doesn't happen.  Rumor is the Ravens are shopping this pick. I'm 50/50 on the them trading back, because they already have 9 picks. With that being said they draft Teven Jenkins, a big, nasty RT with incredible size and strength. He's an elite pass protector and a fantastic run blocker. He fits right in where Orlando Brown left off.

32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jayson Oweh (EDGE - Penn State)

Jason Pierre-Paul isn't getting any younger, and Oweh will be a great replacement when the time comes. He has a ton of talent but has a bit to learn. He lands in the perfect situation in Tampa. He can be a situational player for now and learn from two great pass rushers in JPP and Shaq Barrett.

 

I want to give a special thanks to @McManusDesigns, @SwapKingdom, @SchapDesign, @Golden.GRFX, @SnaggyGFX, and @DesignedbyFranco for the awesome jersey swaps!

You can follow me on twitter at @BaltimoreBobFF

 

 

What’s Next for Leonard Fournette?

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What's Next for Leonard Fournette?

By Tommy Harvey

Monday morning, it was reported Jacksonville is releasing former 4th overall pick RB Leonard Fournette.  After already declining his 5th year option and not able to work out a trade, the Jaguars have now decided to clear Fournette's $4 million off the books. It's not very often a RB coming off a season with 1,150+ yards rushing and 76 receptions gets released.  By releasing him, any team is now free to place a waiver claim.  Who are the teams best suited to take a chance on the former Pro Bowler?

Chicago Bears

The Bears drafted RB David Montgomery last season out of Iowa State with hopes he would become the workhorse.  After a somewhat disappointing season, Montgomery was looking to prove his worth in 2020.  However, he suffered a groin injury last week and is expected to miss several weeks.  Chicago could use a proven veteran RB like Leonard Fournette to provide Nick Foles or Mitchell Trubisky a backfield threat.  Fournette would help solidify an offense that has lacked productivity in recent years.

Los Angeles Chargers

Austin Ekeler is a fantasy stud, but has never had more than 132 carries in a season.  There are hopes he can be a 3-down back, but bringing in Leonard Fournette would allow the Chargers to utilize Ekeler in a way he can be most productive.  LA drafted RB Joshua Kelley and brings back RB Justin Jackson, but neither Leonard Fournette.  With the departure of Melvin Gordon, Los Angeles could use a proven RB to replace the new Bronco.

New York Jets

Le'Veon Bell...Frank Gore...Kalen Ballage...YIKES!  Bell seems unmotivated, Gore is 80 years old, and Ballage (who failed his physical and is not a Jet yet) has been below average during his career in Miami.  Will Adam Gase go get Leonard Fournette?  He should!  Pairing him with Sam Darnold may keep the young QB from seeing ghosts.

Washington (Insert Name Here)

Washington is pretty much in the same boat as the Jets.  Derrius Guice was released earlier this summer, leaving a RB room of Adrian Peterson (another 80 year old), Antonio Gibson (rookie RB who was a WR in college), Bryce Love (injured since his Heisman worthy junior season at Stanford), and Peyton Barber (meh...).  With a lack of offensive weapons, Washington should go after Fournette.

New England Patriots

The Patriots seem to be in rebuild mode, but in a very mediocre AFC East, they could still make the playoffs.  You would think QB Cam Newton would love to have a RB with Leonard Fournette's ability in the backfield with him.  Sony Michel is injured and has been unproductive, James White is a 3rd down receiving back, Rex Burkhead has had injury problems in the past, and Damien Harris is unproven.  Harris could open the season as the starter, but Fournette would be a definite upgrade.

Other potential landing spots: Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Seattle Seahawks

AFC East 2020 Fantasy Breakdown

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AFC East 2020 Fantasy Breakdown

By Steve Uetz

We begin our journey through the AFC with the AFC East. This is a very intriguing division for both real life and for fantasy football. Before we start, here is a reminder of what the team breakdowns are all about!

The team breakdowns will contain an overarching theme for each team or more specifically each offensive core. The offensive cores will be organized into four categories: FADE, NEUTRAL, BUY, and BIG BUY! ADP and auction values will somewhat reflect this but I will be adding some personal perspective with keeping some rules of thumb in mind.

Rule of Thumb #1: Each offensive core may have specific player exceptions.

Rule of Thumb #2: Every player has value at the right price.

The breakdowns will include the players to target from each team, the players’ ideal positional count for your roster, target cost for auction budget % and round #, league type preferences, along with optional blurbs from yours truly. Throughout the team breakdowns be sure to keep your eyes wide open looking for the players with coveted “Ladder Pick” label. The “Ladder Pick” players are who I have identified as those who will help you climb the ladder of fantasy football success for the 2020 season.

I have 6 teams whose offensive core make up the BIG BUY category, 8 teams in the BUY category, 12 teams in the NEUTRAL category, and the remaining 6 teams will generally be considered as a FADE. Just so we are on the same page…BIG BUY=offensive cores to target aggressively; BUY=offensive cores that are reach worthy; NEUTRAL=offensive cores (with some players exceptions both positive and negative) to be drafted at value – not to be reached for nor to be shied away from; FADE=offensive cores to pass on at consensus ranking, players to be drafted weighing risk, or players to be drafted only if at a value, larger the discount the better; always!

New York Jets

HC Adam Gase’s mannerisms at his introduction press conference from a couple years ago still haunt me; this isn’t the reason why the Jets are a FADE. The reason is because he is the coach. Big Weirdo. Bad Coach. That press conference...I just can’t even...

QB Sam Darnold: QB2, priory FA for injury or matchup dependent bye week replacement, certainly has upside but it is a capped for the incompetence of the HC. He is a franchise QB to build around which I’m confident Joe Douglas will do. Dynasty buy!!

RB Le’Veon Bell: RB2, 14-15% auction, round 4, he’s not the Bell that we feel in love with in Pittsburgh but talent and high volume is rare, intriguing but with caution. Game scripts aren’t likely to be in Bell’s favor. Also the inconvenient truth is in town, the eternal Frank Gore.

WR Jamison Crowder: “Ladder Pick” WR3 (if robust RB with elite TE, ideal WR4, 4-5% auction, round 10, he will be a target monster on a team that is likely to be often playing from behind.

Crowder is one of my most drafted players so far this year. Jets WR1 that will get volume with (likely) game script help that is being drafted in the late rounds? YES PLEASE!

WR Breshad Perriman: WR5-6, 1-2% auction, round 14, as the end of your bench WR, Perriman’s late season breakout last year landed him a prime role in this offense. Plenty of upside, not much to lose at cost.

WR Denzel Mims: priority FA, this steal in the 2020 NFL draft could make a great pair with Darnold. He got banged up early in training camp...we apparently just can’t have nice things in 2020. Keep him on your radar!

TE Chris Herndon: TE2 with TE1 upside, $1, round 13. Can I call Chris Herndon the DeVante Parker of TEs? So much upside, so much promise, but little to show for outside of inconsistent flashes of greatness. I’m afraid we will forever say “this is the year” with him as with Parker.

Parker, of course finally broke out last year, same could happen with Herndon! We need him on field though! TE is very deep, so other options remain but certainly juicy upside. Not much to risk if he is your TE2 in a deep league. Could be delicious trade bait!

New England Patriots

The new look Patriots are a NEUTRAL offensive core, with looks of player worth targeting, none of them are worth reaching for. An intriguing offense year in and year out, that remains, but it isn’t business as usual this season. The GOAT is now in Tampa and in comes a former MVP, because of course.

QB Tom Br... Jarrett Sti...Cam Newton: Low-QB1, 3% auction, round 12, Cam could be an absolute steal at his ADP. This feels a little bit like Lamar Jackson last year, hopefully Cam is actually healthy now. Plenty of upside, going late…

The NFL is more fun with Cam on the field. Inherent rushing upside could be exponential with some uncertainty in the RB group!

RB James White: RB3 6-7% auction, round 7-8, this zeroRB legend has more upside for PPR, and is seriously an ideal weapon for Cam. With concerns regarding Sony Michel and Lamar Miller, White could become a lot more than just a PPR floor play.

RB Damien Harris: RB4 (robust WR with elite TE), ideal RB5, 2-3% auction, round 12, opportunity in a good offense is a key to great fantasy late round value, you’ll have nothing to lose and everything to gain with Harris. Keep an eye out for Rex Burkehead if any RBs are to miss extended time.

WR Julian Edelman: Low-WR3 (robust RB), ideal WR4, 7-8% auction, round 8, Edelman is another ideal target for Cam. Edelman can help Cam’s passing efficiency. I’m going to target Edelman aggressively. PPR target.

WR N’Keal Harry: WR5, 1-2% auction, round 14, Harry disappointed as a rookie primarily due to struggling with injuries. He has nowhere to go but up! Could be a steal in the late rounds!

TEs Devin Asiasi and Dalton Keene are interesting dynasty prospects. Would it be something if the Patriots trade for disgruntled Cleveland TE David Njoku mid-season…would love to see it!

Miami Dolphins

The ADP of the offensive core is a clear representation of why this offense is a FADE, BUT the Dolphins have interesting upside as they look to build off of the semi-surprising success they showed last season.

QBs - Ryan Fitzpatrick/Tua Tagovailoa - Miami landed Tua without the full blown “tank”, he is an incredibly intriguing prospect to me. He is the QB they will build around. *Russell Wilson vibes*

Fitzpatrick is still the lovable bearded gun-slinger, but undraftable in standard roster 12 team leagues. dId YoU kNoW hE wEnT tO hArVaRd?! *Yawn*

RBs Jordan Howard: Low-RB3, ideal RB4, 5-6%, round 10, he is Rodney Dangerfield, he gets no respect despite consistently producing 1000 yard rushing seasons. Power back who is able to catch, under-utilized in that regard.

RB Matt Breida: RB4, 4-5%, round 10-11, Brieda has the speed and pass catching upside but is a little frustrating to roster with injury concerns. Good player with good opportunity. Not going to reach for him, looking for value!

Howard and Breida compliment each other well and should work well together in the offense. Hard to predict week to week usage but I am targeting them as a value in drafts.

WR DeVante Parker: WR3, 6-7% auction, round 7, the Parker breakout *finally* happened and it was indeed glorious to see him ball out. I’ve been down the road of hoping for upside too many times so I will only be drafting him at a value this year.

WR Preston Williams: WR5, 1-2% auction, round 14, really exciting rookie season ended abruptly from injury breaking the hearts of the fantasy world. I’d expect a slow start but certainly targeting him as my end of bench WR!

TE Mike Gesicki: “Ladder Pick” Low-TE1, 2-3% auction, round 12, Gesicki was an athletic standout at the combine 2 years ago, the fruit of his athleticism translated on the field last year.

The pass catching TE who is practically a WR has lots of opportunity in an offense that will likely feature have favorable matchups and game scripts. I’m a Pavlovian dog and Gesicki is the bell!

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are known for their passionate fans, but fortunately for the Bills Mafia, the Bills are on the rise! This revamped offensive core is given the NEUTRAL label from me. I’m targeting, but not reaching for, this improved group!

QB Josh Allen: Low-QB1, 3% auction, round 10, massive arm and rushing upside makes him a very intriguing player. New weapon, Stefon Diggs should contribute to his passing efficiency increasing. Big upside!

RBs Devin Singletary: (low-RB2, ideal RB3, 11-12% auction, round 6) and Zack Moss (RB4, 4% auction, round 9) are a nice hound duo is an offense that is trending up. Good defensive play is typical so there should be plenty of opportunity for touches.

I see Singletary as more of the volume play, with Moss getting the pass catching and potentially the goal line role. Upside can be capped by Allen rushing ability. Both are very talented, it will be very interesting to see how this situation plays out.

WR Stefon Diggs: Low-WR2 (robust RB with elite TE), high WR3, 9-10% auction, round 7, Diggs finds a new home in Buffalo. I think Diggs is a tremendous addition to this offense, he could be an amazing value! Bills paid a big price for him as they build around their franchise QB.

WR John Brown: “Ladder Pick” WR5, 3-4% auction, round 12, the Diggs-Brown duo is an underrated one! Diggs will attract the tougher defensive matchup which will help make life easier on John Brown. Everything to gain and nothing with a player at his value! Perfect sleeper!

WR Cole Beasley: priority FA, PPR target, in the mood of Julian Edelman, this scrappy WR is incredibly underrated and often forgotten about. He should be rostered in all leagues if Diggs or Brown were to miss time!

TE Dawson Knox: Low-TE2, priority FA, TE is so deep this year that he undraftable in standard rule 12 team leagues. This breakout candidate could benefit from Stefon Diggs presence the most! Add him to your watch list!

Diving Into The Deep End

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Diving Into The Deep End

By Matt Kelley

It is without a doubt startup dynasty season amongst the fantasy community. The NFL looks like a go from the standpoint of COVID-19, clearing most of the uncertainty about forging into a fresh dynasty league. 

Everyone generally knows about the players inside of the top 100 picks, but in a dynasty format where starting lineups and rosters are likely to be much deeper, you have to know where to look for rising stars, values, and opportunity. Here we’ll take a look at some guys going outside of the top 100 in ADP (we’ll assume 12 teams, single QB, PPR settings). 

Jamison Crowder, Pick 109 Overall: 

Crowder spent the first four seasons of his NFL career in Washington. In the first three, he compiled 280 targets, 192 receptions, and 12 touchdowns. All of this production came with Kirk Cousins as quarterback. We’ll forgo Crowder’s last season in Washington, as he only played in nine games, and the QB situation was in flux (Alex Smith, Josh Johnson, Colt McCoy, and even a Mark Sanchez appearance). 

Last season, his first season as a New York Jet, Crowder had a career high 122 targets in 12 games started. Crowder saw at least eight targets in 50% of his games. He became a consistent target for Sam Darnold, who took a pretty decent step forward in his own right, despite a bad offensive line and dealing with Mononucleosis a few weeks into the season. 

Crowder will be in the starting lineup out of the gate this season and will be a PPR machine. You can snag Crowder as a WR4 or WR5 in some cases and feel great about plugging him in as a flex option or during your bye weeks. 

Boston Scott, Pick 134 Overall: 

Regardless if you’re a Miles Sanders truther or not, you should know the name Boston Scott. Scott came into the Philadelphia Eagles lineup out of necessity last season. However, over the last month of the season, Scott saw an uptick in his opportunity and showed he’s got some chops to contribute to this team. 

Scott saw 24 targets to Sanders’ 22 over the last four games (Sanders did injure his knee week 17). I don’t necessarily expect Scott to see that split over the entirety of the season, but there is a possibility Scott sees low-end double digit touches each week. 

The Eagles didn’t bring in another RB over the offseason, so Scott is second in line to Sanders for touches. It also isn’t likely that Sanders will be on the field for 90% of snaps all season. 

Scott evaded 26 tackles in limited action last season, so he’s shifty enough to make guys miss and create space for himself. Scott can provide weekly upside in your flex spot and should be handcuffed for anyone drafting Miles Sanders. 

Drew Lock, Pick 166 Overall: 

Finding a long term QB has been quite the quest for the Denver Broncos. Have they found that in Drew Lock? Well, maybe. 

Lock started from week 13 on and led the Broncos to a 4-1 record over that stretch. He averaged a mere 204 passing yards per game, which was largely propped up by a 309 yard performance against the Houston Texans. He was also on pace to rush for 200 plus yards which aren’t Lamar Jackson numbers, but it doesn’t hurt. 

To be fantasy relevant in single QB leagues, Lock has to take a pretty big step forward. Luckily for him, the Broncos tried to surround him with better options for the 2020 season. They acquired Melvin Gordon in free agency, drafted WR’s Jerry Jeudy (who is projected to contribute immediately) and KJ Hamler. Both Courtland Sutton and Noah Fant are ready to prove they’re top options at their respective positions. 

The truth is, Lock is still facing an uphill battle. Gordon will need to acclimate to the offense, while the rookie pair of WR’s will need to acclimate themselves to NFL competition. Expect a bumpy start while the team finds chemistry and works through a tough first five weeks of the schedule (TEN, @PIT, TB, @NYJ, @NE).  Greener pastures are ahead, though, as the season wears on into the fall. Lock will have an opportunity to finish as a high-end QB2 if his surrounding cast develops with him. 

Damien Harris, Pick 199 Overall: 

I know 2020 is weird when I’m advocating for a Patriots RB. The Pats are notorious for going with a RBBC (running back by committee) approach...and by RBBC approach I mean good luck predicting who is going to get the most usage on a weekly basis. I don’t expect that to change in 2020, but with that said there’s opportunity to be had in this backfield. 

Damien Harris was selected in the third round of the 2019 draft and saw a total of four...FOUR...carries all season. Why? Well, I don’t have a good reason for you. The Patriots featured James White, Sony Michel, and Rex Burkhead last season, all of whom are still projected to be with the Patriots this season. 

So why Harris now? 

Well, he’s being taken very late, and there is a chance...albeit small...he starts the season as the lead back. Sony Michel, who saw the bulk of carries for New England last season, had offseason foot surgery and has had a number of lower body injuries dating all the way back to highschool. Given his most recent foot procedure was in May, there’s a chance he lands on the PUP when camp starts. 

With the NFL announcing limited camp and most likely no pre season, it’ll be difficult to evaluate Harris’ chances to start, and we know better than to just listen to head coach Bill Belichick. Harris produced in his time at Alabama, and he’s definitely fresh considering his very limited usage last season. At this range of a draft, it’s worth the shot to see if Harris comes out with a more significant workload this season as this backfield is pretty wide open. 

Tyrod Taylor, Pick 248 Overall: 

It’s pretty hard to find a starting QB this late, but insert Tyrod Taylor and you’ve got one...at least for a bit. Taylor is going to enter the 2020 season as the starting QB for the Los Angeles Chargers ahead of first round pick Justin Herbert. The Chargers are unlikely to rush Herbert for playing time due to the lack of camps, preseason, and offensive line problems. 

Taylor last started games for the Cleveland Browns, but his most meaningful stint as a starter was in Buffalo for the Bills from 2015-2017. What’s great about Taylor is he’s unlikely to throw himself out of the starting role. While he isn’t the yardage monster that Philip Rivers was, he doesn't turn the ball over. Taylor had six or fewer interceptions in each of his three seasons in Buffalo. 

Where Taylor really provides value though, is on the ground. Taylor rushed for 568 yards in 2015, 580 yards in 2016, and 427 yards in 2016. I’ll take that all day long from a QB. Especially one that is being drafted as the 30th QB off the board or later. 

Will he start all season? Well, no promises there, but the Chargers open their season with some fantasy friendly match-ups (@CIN, KC, CAR, @TB, @NO, NYJ, @MIA). You could easily get seven or eight games out of a QB or have an alternate to turn to from injury. If the Chargers stay in the playoff hunt you could conceivably get a full season from Taylor.

 

 

Follow me on Twitter @ThatMattKelley

The 5 Best Fantasy Destinations for Raheem Mostert After Trade Request

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The 5 Best Fantasy Destinations for Raheem Mostert After Trade Request

By Tommy Harvey

Wednesday afternoon, San Francisco 49ers RB Raheem Mostert requested a trade after contract negotiations were “unproductive.”  Mostert became the 49ers lead back last season after Matt Breida went down with an injury in week 10 against the Seahawks.  He led the team with 772 yards and 8 TDs on the way to a Super Bowl LIV loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.  

Mostert was somewhat of a late bloomer.  As a rookie in 2015, he was seen on four rosters (Eagles, Dolphins, Ravens, and Browns).  In 2016, he was on three more (Jets, Bears, and 49ers).  Now, the 28 year old veteren is seemingly on his way out of San Fran and there are a few options for him and the 49ers...but, where is he a more valuable fantasy asset? 

 

San Francisco 49ers

If it ain’t broke, why fix it?  Raheem Mostert and the 49ers have proven to be compatible while on the football field.  The last eight games of the 2019 season...including the playoffs...Mostert ran for 715 yards and 11 TDs on 117 carries (6.11 ypc).  That included a playoff outburst of 29 carries, 220 yards, and 4 TDs in the NFC Championship game against Green Bay.

Obviously, a return to San Francisco would mean a new contract would need to be in place to satisfy Mostert.  Maybe the publicness of his request could be a ploy to force the 49ers to step up and offer him what he deems as fair.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tom Brady will be 43 years old at the start of the season, and isn’t getting any younger.  His final season with the New England Patriots displayed his need for run support.  Enter Raheem Mostert.  Mostert would instantly be the best RB option for the Bucs as they look to make a run in the NFC South.  

TB12 has a plethora of options already in Tampa Bay.  WRs Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and newly drafted Tyler Johnson are enough to make any defense extremely uncomfortable.  Then add in the three headed TE monster of Rob Gronkowski, OJ Howard, and Cameron Brate.  Raheem Mostert would bring an intriguing presence to an already potentially dangerous offense.

New York Jets

The J-E-T-S Jets are an interesting pairing.  They signed Le’Veon Bell last season and are trying to become relevant in the AFC East, that has recently lost the aforementioned Tom Brady.  The preseason favorite to win the division are the Buffalo Bills, but a big offensive season by New York could put them in the thick of it.  Acquiring Raheem Mostert could go a long way in that pursuit.  

Also, it could make it easier for the Jets to eventually part with Bell, who is owed $13.5 million in 2021 if carried on the roster.  New York has an out after the 2020 season, with only having to deal with a $4 million cap hit.  Could a reunion with Raheem Mostert be in the cards?

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons are only a few years removed from an appearance in the Super Bowl.  Their potent offense could make them a contender sooner rather than later.  Matt Ryan and Julio Jones have been an elite QB/WR combo over their careers together.  With WR Calvin Ridley and newly acquired TE Hayden Hurst (former 1st round pick), Atlanta has the weapons in the passing game.  Pairing Todd Gurley, who is only on a 1-year deal, with Raheem Mostert could be lethal.

Todd Gurley has documented knee issues, so a safety valve like Raheem Mostert would be significant.  The Falcons have shown the ability to run two RBs with efficiency.  Remember Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman (Mostert’s teammate in SF)?

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers are going to need to rely on their running game this season...poor offensive line and all.  LA is going into the season with veteran QBs Tyrod Taylor and rookie Justin Herbert, but neither should inspire much confidence, at least early on in the season.

RB Austin Ekeler proved to be a fantasy stud last season, but many people doubt his ability to hold up as a bell cow back.  The Chargers already have Justin Jackson and rookie Joshua Kelley, but Raheem Mostert would be an upgrade.  Mostert would provide Los Angeles with a viable option at RB to pair with Ekeler.

You can follow me on Twitter @dynastyprostom

Sleeper Files: Breshad Perriman

by

Sleeper Files: Breshad Perriman

by Tommy Harvey

(Photo by cbssports.com)

 

If I were to create a prototypical wide receiver, he would be 6’2” 215lbs, he would run a
sub 4.4 40 yard dash, he would be strong and explosive, and he would have been a
productive collegiate player. The Baltimore Ravens thought they had drafted the
prototype when they selected Breshad Perriman with the 26th overall pick in the 2015
NFL Draft. However, Perriman’s NFL career stalled after he was put on Injured Reserve
during his rookie season.

In two seasons with the Ravens, Breshad Perriman caught 43 passes for 576 yards
and 3 touchdowns in 27 games played. Perriman was released by Baltimore in
September 2018 and moved onto Cleveland as an afterthought, where he had another
less than stellar season. He only lasted one season with the Browns before he moved
onto Tampa Bay as a depth option for Jameis Winston. It appeared as if Perriman was destined to become a draft day bust, and for the Baltimore Ravens, he is probably considered just that. But....maybe....just maybe....at 26 years old, he is a slightly late bloomer. In 2019, Perriman emerged for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a dependable target. He amassed the best stats of his career with
36 receptions, 645 yards, and 6 TDs. The bulk of those numbers came in the final 4
games of the season after Mike Evans was shelved for the season. In those four
games, Perriman caught 25 balls for 506 yards, and 5 touchdowns.

This off season, Breshad Perriman was inked to a one year contract with the New York
Jets worth $8 million and $6 million guaranteed after Robby Anderson left the Big Apple
for Carolina. The hope for the Jets is Perriman can continue his hot finish in 2019 into
2020 and be the performer Anderson was. If Perriman can duplicate or better
Anderson’s average of 52 receptions, 765 yards, and 5 TDs per season, he could be a
very important piece for a Jets team that has struggled to find their footing in the AFC
East. With Tom Brady out of the division and the Patriots seemingly starting from
scratch at the quarterback position, the Jets could find themselves in contention sooner
rather than later.

The Jets drafted a very similar WR this April when they selected Denzel Mims out of
Baylor. At 6’3” 207lbs and a sub 4.4 40 yard dash, the Jets have surrounded Sam
Darnold and Le’Veon Bell with two prototypical targets who have the ability to stretch
the field with elite size and speed to go along with proven slot receiver Jamison Crowder and talented TE Chris Herndon. Now in New York, Perriman has the chance I never thought he properly got in Baltimore...to become a solid NFL wide receiver.

 

2020 Prediction and Fantasy Outlook

54 receptions, 891 yards, 9 touchdowns

Breshad Perriman should be on your radar this draft season somewhere in the
WR30-35 range and considered a WR3/Flex option with low-end WR2 upside in 2020 if
he becomes a favorite for 3rd-year QB Sam Darnold.

@DynastyProsTom