San Francisco 49ers

NFC West Predictions for 2022

by

NFC West Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

The NFC West has been pretty dominant for quite some time now.  The division winner isn’t always the same team, but if you win this division, you go far in the playoffs.  Not since 1991 has a team from the NFC West not been in the playoffs past the wild card round.  As we look ahead, will we still have a dominant team?  Let’s find out.

Arizona Cardinals

Record in 2021: 11-6-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 11-6-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Though the defense is pretty good in Arizona, the high flying offense is what gets it done.  Whether it be superstar Kyler Murray, the receiving game led by DeAndre Hopkins or the ground game, which runs through James Conner, the Cardinals are stacked.  That being said, management woes are rearing their ugly heads in Arizona.  If it was quiet before, it has been brought to the forefront with Kyler Murray.  Past Cardinals have sided with Murray, stating this has been a problem for quite some time.

Situation to Watch

There are many intriguing things happening in Arizona, but a lower key one takes my attention.  Trey McBride out of Colorado State has had a much quieter entry into the league than last year’s top option in Kyle Pitts.  Particularly with dynasty fantasy implications, I wonder how they’ll use him as a rookie alongside Zach Ertz.  He’s got much to learn, especially without the ball in his hands, but I’m excited to see it unfold.

Conclusion

Not many casual fans know this, but the Cardinals are actually the NFL’s oldest franchise.  While we’ve seen this team in the depths of the valley and on the top of a mountain, I feel like it’s looking up for the Cardinals in 2022.  Losing DeAndre Hopkins for 6 games hurts, but it’s a hurdle they’ll overcome.  A couple early losses with D-Hops out won’t matter once he’s back.

Seattle Seahawks

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 3-14-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

It is true that the Seattle Roster is quite barren compared to its glory days not so long ago, but there are still gems.  DK Metcalf had a much better season last year than he gets credit for and the rest of the offense isn’t the worst in the league.  It’s hard to list a greater weakness than the quarterback room.  The current guys aren’t great, but it’s so much worse knowing what you had versus what you have now.

Situation to Watch

While I still love him as a guy, I’m very curious as to how Pete Carroll will do this season.  While the Seahawks haven’t been dominant in quite some time, with Russell Wilson you always had a chance.  A new day is dawning in Seattle and you have to question whether the sun has all but set for Carroll.  If he doesn’t make noise in this division in 2022, I fear he’ll be out the door by the end of the season next year.

Conclusion

The Legion of Boom is officially dead as no one remains from that dominant defense with Bobby Wagner now gone.  And the worst blow is knowing you are going from Russell Wilson to Drew Lock or even Geno Smith.  The offseason moves were ok and the draft brings potential, the lack of star power, save Metcalf, is very concerning moving forward.  This team has its work cut out for it, and it’s going to cut deep.

San Francisco 49ers

Record in 2021: 10-7-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 7-10-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The biggest strength of this team is one that doesn’t get near enough credit.  While Deebo got a ton of praise last season and everyone drools over Trey Lance, let’s not forget about one of the most punishing defenses in the entire league.  Last season both Dallas and Green Bay were rudely awoken by Fred Warner, Nick Bosa and crew.  This defense should continue to dominate for years to come.

Situation to Watch

I am waiting to see what Kyle Shanahan does this season.  Among fantasy pundits, we are maddened by his choices with his running game every season.  I know it’s obviously more important to win real life games; but if we’re being honest as fantasy football people, is it?  I also wonder what he’ll finally do with Trey Lance, like so many others.  I worry that Jimmy G just won’t go away, breaking the hearts of Lance fanboys all over fantasy leagues.

Conclusion

My assessment of this team’s record can be quite deceiving.  A 7-10-0 prediction makes it seem as though I think the team is terrible, but that’s just not true.  I honestly think it’s going to take a while for this team to get up to speed under Trey Lance.  Once this team gets solidified, however, it’s gonna be scary for the other 31 teams.  But, I don’t think the other teams will have to worry just yet.

Los Angeles Rams

Record in 2021: 12-5-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 12-5-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

What a difference a quarterback makes.  Although there were other moving pieces, the biggest solution for the Rams’ Super Bowl puzzle was Matthew Stafford.  And if you don’t agree, just ask Cooper Kupp.  The biggest weakness is actually a result of having such a great team.  In a salary cap world, you can only afford so much.  It makes you question how much longer they can keep this elite core together.

Situation to Watch

In 2022, I want to see Allen Robinson succeed.  Largely based on my world as a fantasy manager, Allen Robinson has never had the good fortune of a great quarterback.  Truly no disrespect intended, but Blake Bortles, Nick Foles, Mitchell Trubisky and a rookie Justin Fields isn’t fair for a man with the talent of Robinson.  He now goes to Matthew Stafford and I can’t wait to see Robinson light the football world on fire.

Conclusion

I’m pretty positive, like so many others, that the Rams will win the division again this season.  And like so many others, I think they have a shot to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl again in 2022.  That being said, as I mentioned earlier, time is running out on future runs.  And it’s not age that will stop them: it’s the salary cap crunch.  All I can say is that they’ll have to make some tough choices moving forward.  It’s been an honor and a privilege to watch football magic in action, but it’s gotta end sometime.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

NFC West Best Values

by

NFC West Best Values

By Tim Lazenby

The National Football League offers excitement, intrigue and amazement, but one of the best things it offers is one that is indirectly their doing.  Fantasy football is becoming bigger and bigger every year and dynasty is the absolute best way to do it in my humble opinion.  But, in order to succeed we must make wise decisions when evaluating talent.  It’s easy to see who the best player on each team is, but a savvy manager knows where to find the best deal.  Although some of these players are not cheap, they are still the best deal you can find on their respective teams when considering talent versus cost.  Today, we dive into the best values in the NFC West.

Arizona Cardinals: Wide Receiver – Rondale Moore

Many teams have faced drama this off season, and the Arizona Cardinals are no stranger to it.  Quarterback Kyler Murray was front and center when he removed all Cardinals association on his instagram, but he told us that apparently it didn’t mean anything.  Now that we can move on from that, we want to find the best value on a team featuring one of the league’s best young quarterbacks.  It’s hard not to love the young wide receiver, Rondale Moore.

 With Christian Kirk off to his new team, the sky’s the limit for the 21 year old Moore.  And while DeAndre Hopkins is still quite relevant, there is plenty of room for a strong option at number two.  Last season, we saw Kyler rush less and focus more on his arm and playmaking talents.  Even though Kyler Murray is still going to be one of the best rushing quarterbacks moving forward, I believe we’re going to see more of his passing talents displayed moving forward.  Truthfully, Rondale Moore wasn’t sensational in his rookie season, but he’ll be leaps and bounds better with more opportunity.  Take advantage of those who don’t see just how good this young man will be moving forward.

 

Los Angeles Rams: Wide Receiver – Allen Robinson

I know it’s usually bad when someone says, “Hear me out now”, but hear me out now.  I know that Allen Robinson was a complete bust last season.  In fact, he nearly killed one of my own keeper teams.  But, if we’re honest, we have to ignore last season as an anomaly.  The other issue is that even though he’s on this best values list, he won’t be cheap.  Many managers haven’t given up hope now that he’s moved on to greener pastures.  I preached to buy him at the end of the season while he was dirt cheap, but even though he’s way more expensive now with Matthew Stafford, he’s still undervalued.

While he will not supplant Cooper Kupp, there is still room for two top flight receivers in Sean McVay’s offense.  We’ve seen this come to fruition since he came to the Rams.  We’d also be foolish to forget which quarterbacks Robinson has had so far in his career.  I don’t want to list them as to not be disrespectful, but you know the names.  Matthew Stafford was perennially underrated, and even with the Super Bowl win, he’s still not recognized as he should be.  Make no mistake, Robinson will shine more now than ever and you want him on your dynasty fantasy squad moving forward.

 

San Francisco 49ers: Running Back – Trey Sermon

The San Francisco 49ers are one of the rare teams in the NFL that are not easy to find values in fantasy football.  The top tier options are very expensive and the depth at the skilled positions is not as deep as other teams.  So finding the best value on the team has to be that of running back, Trey Sermon.  I’m not blind, as I know Elijah Mitchell is not moving as top dog and Kyle Shanahan doesn’t have much love for Sermon.  Before you call me a lunatic, Trey Sermon isn’t dead yet, and here’s why.

Although the 49ers are the most maddening team to have one of their fantasy running backs on your squad, they are valuable.  And now that Trey Lance is taking the helm, his play style is better suited to have even more of a rushing offense.  I can see Shanahan employing a lot more two running back sets to block and deceive offenses.  But, above all else, not only has Elijah Mitchell shown he is an injury risk, Trey Sermon has too much stock to give up on after only one season.  While it’s possible he’ll never succeed at the top level, he’s essentially free, so you have to pounce.

 

Seattle Seahawks: Wide Receiver – DK Metcalf

In my most expensive choice so far, it may seem insane to list him as the best value, but it’s quite sane I assure you.  Let’s not forget that DK Metcalf before last season was a top five option at wide receiver in dynasty for many experts.  As an owner, the situation is far from ideal, but as a buyer or drafter, his situation is quite appealing.  For some reason, people think that DK Metcalf had a bad year last season.  If you look at consistency, you can see some merit with that logic I guess, but with Russell Wilson injured for a great portion in 2021, Metcalf still cleared almost 1000 yards and scored 12 touchdowns.  The false narrative should bring in the vultures.

Now that Wilson is playing in the mile high city, the man at the helm is not even close to the same man that used to be throwing to the likes of Metcalf.  So with the doom and gloom situation, how can you not take a chance on DK Metcalf.  Talented players have shown time and time again that they will overcome their situation.  And we haven’t even talked about how he may get traded.  If this happens, his value will skyrocket.  I am trying to buy DK Metcalf everywhere and, at this price point, I don’t plan on stopping any time soon.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

Bob Miller’s 2021 NFL Mock Draft

by

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

 

 

The 49ers Smoke Screen

by

The 49ers Smoke Screen

By Levi Ellis

From the moment the 49ers traded up to 1.3 all we have heard is how Mac Jones is going to be the pick. I happen to believe this is one of the biggest smoke screens we have seen in recent memory and below I breakdown why Mac Jones will NOT be the pick at 1.3.

Many people are comparing Mac Jones to Matt Ryan or even Kirk Cousins and making the connection that since Kyle Shanahan coached those guys and was successful then Mac Jones must be the pick. We have even heard the analogy that Shanahan wants a “joystick” quarterback and he will be the “controller”. Although that analogy certainly makes sense, I don’t believe it for a second. Keep in mind Shanahan also coached RGIII and that worked out pretty well too with RGIII winning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. 

Kyle Shanahan is one of the top offensive minded coaches in the NFL and to put it quite simply, if your quarterback can both throw the ball and run the ball it opens up so many more possibilities. The pocket quarterbacks are becoming a thing of the past and while there are still exceptions (Brady, Ryan, etc) the NFL is transitioning to mobile quarterbacks and the pocket passers are now dinosaurs. Many of the top quarterbacks in the game today are considered either dual threat quarterbacks or at the very least mobile quarterbacks. You have guys like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Russell Wilson, Deshaun Watson, Dak Prescott and the list goes on and on of the top quarterbacks in the game today and most of the top guys are dual threat players. Even players like Mahomes and Rodgers are mobile quarterbacks. No they are not going to run for 1,000 yards in a season but they can certainly create plays and avoid pressure two things I’m not so sure Mac Jones can do consistently.

Think about it like this, if you were drafting a running back would you want a running back that can both run and catch or just a run? The same logic applies to your quarterback. Even if you don’t plan your offense around a running quarterback, just the possibility that he could use his legs will open up the offense and force the defense to account for this possibility. Last year we witnessed a similar scenario from another offensive genius in Sean Payton. When Drew Brees went down with an injury everyone naturally assumed that Jameis Winston was going to be the starter. Former #1 overall pick with a 5,000 yard passing season but no, Peyton turned to Taysom Hill, dual threat quarterback. Again the dual threat guys are very intriguing for offensive minded coaches and I think Shanahan feels the same way.

A few years ago, we witnessed the NBA game completely transition from high percentage two point shots to now everyone playing three ball. You can thank the Golden State Warriors for playing such a pivotal role in this change. Well, we are witnessing the same thing in the NFL right now. If you do not have a mobile quarterback you are at a distinct disadvantage. Gone are the days of players like Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Drew Brees. Sure, every once in a while a player like that will come around but the vast majority of the college quarterbacks coming into the league now are dual threat guys and if college coaches are developing those types of players then the NFL will be flooded with them and that is exactly what we have seen over the last few years.

Another point I want to make is why has there been so much talk about who the 49ers were going to select with that pick. There is not one single advantage that I can think of for the 49ers to leak that information if they do in fact want Mac Jones, however there is an advantage to leak that information if they do NOT want Mac Jones and they want to ensure the Jets do not take their guy. In fact every draft season there are numerous smoke screens and rumors that we later find out had no merit behind them at all. Since John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan were hired in San Francisco, the 49ers have been very quiet about their plans and intentions each season and then all of a sudden they make one of the biggest trades in franchise history and they leak who they are planning to draft. It doesn’t all add up.

I also think we have also already seen Mac Jones’ ceiling while we are not anywhere close to witnessing the ceiling of either Justin Fields or Trey Lance. Mac Jones had a phenomenal season last year but keep in mind he played for a college team that is often compared to an NFL program with potentially two top 15 pick wide receivers, potentially the top running back to be drafted this year as well as a dominant offensive line. Every single week that Mac Jones stepped onto the field last year his team was at an advantage in terms of talent and coaching. That will not be the same in the NFL. Yes the 49ers have a good offensive line, skill players and a great coaching staff but Mac Jones is not going to be able to sit in the pocket without any pressure and pick apart NFL defenses. Mac Jones does have talent but I’m sorry he has no business being considered the third best quarterback in this draft let alone a top 3 draft pick.

Justin Fields has proven his toughness by only missing two total snaps in his two years at Ohio State and what is the reason again on why the 49ers are drafting a quarterback, oh yea that’s right, because their guy can’t stay healthy. Fields has also led a big time program for the last two years and his work ethic and leadership are lauded by coaches and teammates. His college coach Ryan Day had this to say about Fields on the Move the Sticks Podcast “I said to the coaches he’s 6’3”, 225lbs, smart, really really accurate, can we coach”? Well I think Shanahan can coach and if anyone can help Fields reach his ceiling it is Shanahan. 

I believe the 49ers are targeting either Justin Fields or Trey Lance. In my opinion both guys are going to be fantastic players in the league and either player would be an amazing pick for the 49ers. Also both players would gain valuable experience sitting behind Jimmy Garoppolo for a season or at least a partial season. But if we connect the dots I believe Justin Fields makes the most sense for the 49ers based on all factors considered and I think he will be the pick at 1.3.

NFC West 2020 Fantasy Breakdown

by

NFC West Fantasy Breakdown

By Steve Uetz

We now head west to cover our 3rd  division! We will be covering the NFC West but first here are some reminders about what my 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!

Seattle Seahawks

I want to BUY offense with elite QBs; Russell Wilson is elite! Seattle remains a BUY despite some question marks.

QB Russell Wilson: QB1 6-7% auction budget, round 6-7, one of absolute favorite players. Efficient passing and rushing ability makes him a defensive nightmare. As long as Wilson is playing football at a high level. I honestly don’t care how corny he is. Absolute Stud!

RBs Chris Carson (RB2, 10-11%, round 4, fade at his current ADP), Rashaad Penny (priority FA), and Carlos Hyde (RB6, $1 deep auction, round 14/priority FA). This situation is a big mess. Carson’s health is a big concern for me. I love the player but hate the ADP. As of now I can’t imagine leaving a draft with him as my RB2. RB3 and exercise patience, sure.

However this is difficult to justify considering his ADP. Any RB in this offense that gets a decent work load is worth owning because Russell Wilson opens up the offense extremely well.

Carson and Penny's health issues are legitimately worrisome and in the first 5 rounds (Carson being a round 3-4 pick) I want to be as least risk averse as possible. Hyde may start the season as a tremendous value, get him for $1 in an auction, get him as the last RB on your bench and hope he does well week 1 and sell high baby!

WRs Tyler Lockett: (WR2, PPR stud, 14-15% auction, round 5) and DK Metcalf (low end WR2/high WR3, 11-12% auction budget, round 6, Best Ball target) are very different players and compliment eachother incredibly well; Russell Wilson is a lucky man. This duo will continue to shine and likely outperform their ADP. I prefer Lockett as a more reliable week to week player.

TEs Will Dissly, Greg Olsen, and Jacob Hollister are all undraftable in 12 team non-TE premium leagues and should be considered priority FAs. I want pieces of this offense so keep a close eye!

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals come in as a BIG BUY this year, already trending up, the addition of DeAndre Hopkins puts them over the top!

QB Kyler Murray: QB1, 6-7% auction budget, Round 6, an impressive rookie campaign was a wonderful showing of how he won the bet on himself choosing to go into the NFL rather than the MLB. First world problems, am I right? Murray will be the primary beneficiary of this offense that is ready to feast with one of the league best WR trios.

RB Kenyan Drake: Low-end RB1/high-RB2, 18-20% auction, early round 2, plenty of upside being the lead RB in this high powered offense. Expect Drake to have favorable looks as opposing defenses need to account for Murray’s rushing ability and the lethal trio of WRs.

RB backups Chase Edmonds (RB5, 1-2% auction, round 13), and Eno Benjamin (RB6, $1 deep auction) are late round stashes, Edmonds stash in all leagues, Benjamin deep league stash.

WR DeAndre Hopkins: WR1, 23-24% auction, late round 1,

WR Christian Kirk: WR3, 6-7%, round 8

WR Larry Fitzgerald: WR5, $1, round 14

Hopkins remains an elite WR with a new team and will lead this fantastic trio of WRs. Kirk is an excellent complimentary piece opposite Hopkins with big play ability. Fitzgerald is still solid, the addition of Hopkins hurt his targets/catches upside, but certainly worth grabbing at the end of drafts.

San Francisco 49ers

I love me a Kyle Shanahan offense but for the offense I consider them NEUTRAL overall. Fair ADP all around.

QB Jimmy Garroppolo: QB2, priority FA bye week/injury replacement candidate, I wish Jimmy G was as consistently useful for fantasy as he is handsome. Wait what? Never mind...Perhaps I’m too low on him but maybe I’m too distracted by his beautiful smile. *slapping myself in the head* STICK TO THE FOOTBALL dang it!! Good weapons, better looks, I wish Deebo was 100% (don’t we all)

RB Raheem Mostert: Low-RB2, high-RB3, 9-10% auction, round 7, a very unique career path has lead him to be a starter in a good offense. He’s a great story of determination and perseverance. He would be valued higher if he wasn’t in such a crowded backfield.

RB Tevin Coleman: RB4, 2-3% auction, round 9/10, I really love the idea of Tevin Coleman, but the reality of Tevin Coleman often leaves much to be desired. Despite mixed success, struggles with health, and being in a crowded backfield, he is still a fine depth RB selection.

RB Jerick McKinnon: RB5, $1, end of bench RB/priority FA (especially if Mostert/Coleman were to miss time). Despite not having played in an NFL game in 2 years, he is still an intriguing player, same cautions as above, but a cheap option in a good offensive system seems like a smart move.

WR Deebo Samuel: WR4, 3-4% auction, round 10, the versatile playmaker is being valued below ADP since he will start the season nursing a broken foot. If you love your draft depth and he is still available, get him and be patient, enjoy him as a flex when healthy or use him as trade bait. Love him but wish he were 100%!

WR Brandon Aiyuk: WR5, 2-3%, round 12, this dynamic prospect enters into a great opportunity with Deebo missing time. Solid depth stash can be used as a trade bait early on to a WR needy team.

TE George Kittle: TE1, 12-13%, round 2, Kittle is awesome he is worth the cost, he has that crazy look in his eye (in a good way) and is heat seeking missle that wants to destroy everything it’s way. Sign me up!

Los Angeles Rams

Sean McVay leads the way. Woods and Kupp are trending up. Jared Goff could go off. Henderson and Akers are ankle breakers. Tyler Higbee will be a bust, his ADP I do not trust. This NEUTRAL offensive core should give fantasy points galore.

QB Jared Goff: High-QB2, $1, deep league late round stash, Best Ball target. Surrounded by great weapons and a with an offensive-minded head coach, Goff could be an absolute steal in drafts!

RB Cam Akers: RB3, 5-6% auction, round 8, an intriguing prospect lands in a great offense. In the 2nd round of the 2020 draft The Rams drafted Cam Akers as their first selection which is significant since they did not own a 1st rounder. He has big shoes to fill with Gurley gone, however he lands in a crowded backfield.

RB Darrell Henderson: RB3 if robust WR with elite TE, ideal RB4, 5-6% auction, round 9, left much to be desired last year, perhaps expectations were too high for him. He is one of the first player I add to my queue in drafts. Am I the only one who uses the queue?!

WR Robert Woods: Low-WR1, high WR2, PPR target, 14-15 %, round 4, if he falls to round 5 smash his name and await the groans in the draft chat. Am I the only one who looks at the draft chat during a draft?!

WR Cooper Kupp: WR2, 13-14%, round 5, Kupp and Goff have unique chemistry, having the QBs’ eye and trust is a quality trait. Draft him with confidence!

TE Tyler Higbee: High-TE2 for me, 2-3% auction, round 11, generally for me he is a fade. We can’t talk about Higbee without mentioning the way he ended his season last year. It was literally unbelievable! Dude balled out! Gerald Everett was injured during that span. Can Higbee do it again? Sure, maybe, good offense and should get good matchups. I just really worry that consensus rankings and ADP hold too much recency bias. Look, if he falls far enough I will not hesitate to draft him. He is a fade at his current ADP but every draft is different, prepare to zig when the draft zags. TE Gerald Everett is no slouch, priority FA; I want to keep a close eye on players in good offenses!

Fred Warner: Invest in the Future

by

Fred Warner: Invest in the Future

By Tommy Harvey

Fred Warner has quickly become one of the best Linebackers in the NFL.  The 23 year old entered the league out of BYU in 2018, and has been a tackling machine for the San Francisco 49ers ever since.  Through two seasons, Warner has racked up 242 combined tackles...174 of those being solo tackles. In 2019, he finished 6th in the NFL with 89 solo tackles.  

Warner showed he is a solid all-around LB.  After not recording a sack in his rookie season, he finished 2019 with 3 sacks.  Warner also had 1 interception (returned for a TD), and forced 3 fumbles.

Durability is a big thing when considering who to target in fantasy leagues.  In his two seasons, Warner has not only appeared in all 32 games, but he has started every game as well.  The great thing is his usage is off the charts.  His rookie season in 2018, the young LB was on the field for a staggering 99% of the 49ers defensive snaps.  In 2019, he took a slight step back from that incredible number, playing in 96% of snaps...still an outrageous total.  

Warner is a future Pro Bowl LB, who you should look to target if you miss out on guys like Darius Leonard, Roquan Smith, and Devin White.  We have Fred Warner ranked as the 7th LB in our IDP dynasty rankings.

 

Follow me on @dynastyprostom