Travis Etienne

Dynasty Death Match: Etienne vs Akers

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Dynasty Death Match: Etienne vs Akers

By Tim Lazenby

 

In fantasy football, tough choices are part of the job of an everyday manager.  Oftentimes, we struggle with whom to draft, trade or even drop completely.  This is magnified when two players are so close in value.  Choosing between two players like that can ravage the brain and perhaps make or break your season.  In dynasty, it’s even worse than standard because choosing the wrong guy means you are stuck with the mistake for years and potentially losing out on the talent of the better man to win you multiple championships.

Today, let’s dive into a discussion about two young running backs who missed the chance to play for your squad last season.  In a head to head matchup for dynasty glory, only one can survive.  Will it be Los Angeles running back, Cam Akers or Jacksonville Jaguars running back, Travis Etienne?  As they both missed time and Etienne hasn’t had the chance to show what he can do at the professional level, we’re going to look at the college numbers.

Rushing and Receiving Numbers Comparison

Cam Akers Rushing and Receiving

Year G Att Yrds Avg TDs FumL Rec Yrds Avg TDs
2017 13 194 1025 5.3 7 1 16 116 7.3 1
2018 12 161 706 4.4 6 3 23 145 6.3 2
2019 11 231 1144 5.0 14 3 30 225 75 4

Travis Etienne Rushing and Receiving

Year G Att Yrds Avg TDs FumL Rec Yrds Avg TDs
2017 13 107 766 7.2 13 1 5 57 11.4 0
2018 15 204 1658 8.1 24 1 12 78 6.5 2
2019 15 207 1614 7.8 19 2 37 432 11.7 4
2020 12 168 914 5.4 14 4 48 588 12.3 2

Now, we have to take these numbers with a grain of salt.  The statistics in college will not necessarily transition at the professional level, but they also can’t be ignored completely.  It’s important to note that Etienne had one extra year at the college level, so that could be an advantage or disadvantage according to how you view that.

We also have to take into account the programs they played for.  I think it’s obvious that Etienne has the greater numbers by some margin, but he also played for a much better team.  Even without Trevor Lawrence, Etienne still enjoyed success splitting the backfield in his rookie season, going 10-3.  But once Trevor Lawrence came to Clemson, in the three seasons they played together, their record was 39-3.  This level of success certainly helped Etienne’s game.

Cam Akers, on the other hand, was not so fortunate in the school that he played for.  His rookie season was spent with a rookie quarterback and over the three years at Florida State, their record was 18-20.  This meant that Akers would have a much harder time establishing the run or even getting optimal play time on offense.  While we can’t lean on this logic completely when comparing the two, it is still important to look at.

Now that college is out of the way, it’s important to look at the teams they will play for in the NFL.  While Akers is going to someone he is familiar with in Sean McVay, Etienne is making use of Doug Pedeson in his second swing at NFL coaching.  It’s important to see how these two coaches have used their running backs at the professional level.  After all, both Pederson and McVay have coached five seasons in the NFL and both have only coached for one team.  Let’s discuss what that looked like.

Sean McVay’s NFL running back history

McVay came into the NFL extremely blessed with Todd Gurley at his disposal.  In his first season especially, Sean McVay used every ounce that Gurley could give.  His 279 rush attempts were better than the next closest running back at 63; the definition of a workhorse back.  He wasn’t done in the receiving game either, with Gurley leading the team’s running back in targets at 87 and the closest competition had 11.  In fact, Gurley was second on the entire team in targets.

The next two seasons with Gurley leading the way were more of the same, but as time progressed the usage, while still dominant, went down.  You have to question if Sean McVay is leery of using his star running back so heavily moving forward.  The next two seasons were led by none other than Cam Akers and Sony Michel.  It seems likely that Akers would have led last season if not for the injury.  But, unlike Gurley, the usage was not nearly as dominant.  McVay’s lead back almost split the rush attempts and the targets were not even first on the team in the running back room.  Can we expect more of the same moving forward?  Is Cam Akers a workhorse back or a 1A from now on?

Doug Pederson’s NFL running back history

Unlike McVay, Pederson has never shown faith in a typical workhorse back.  Although there is always a starting running back with him, he tends to use a split backfield.  It’s actually amazing that over his NFL tenure, he’s only had one running back as the starter in more than one season in Miles Sanders.  But, when your best option is Ryan Matthews, LaGarrett Blount and Josh Adams, you make do with what you have; no disrespect intended.

Now, can we blame Doug Pederson’s running back choices on his coaching alone or is it partial to the talent available?  Truthfully, moving forward, it will be interesting to see what he does in his fresh start with Jacksonville.  Unlike McVay also, even with a “starter” the rushing share was not great; and with the targets, it’s even worse.  It seemed as though he really liked the idea of a smasher and a receiving threat not being one and the same.

Conclusion

Lastly, we have to talk about the opportunity for each running back on the team for whom they are employed.  I don’t see much in the way of competition for Cam Akers, and now that James Robinson is on the shelf, Travis Etienne’s path to dominance is all but assured.  The teams they play for are also vastly different.  The Rams just won a Super Bowl and have no signs of giving up their championship moving forward.  The Jaguars, on the other hand, finished dead last yet again.  Will McVay ease Cam Akers because the team doesn’t need him as badly?  Will Pederson finally make use of a workhorse back because of the state of his team?

When considering the talent, it is too close to call.  With all the data and arguments, it comes down to the overall team value.  With Akers as a second round pick and the plethora of talent around him, the likelihood of usage is not as high as Etienne.  The Jaguars invested a first round pick in Etienne, making it harder not to showcase him.  Add to that the connection between him and Trevor Lawrence, the choice is easier.  While it has been documented that Trevor Lawrence wasn’t instrumental in bringing Travis Etienne to the Jaguars, now that he’s there I see the cornerstone quarterback wanting to make use of his college teammate as much as possible.

If you are drafting or trading for either, both are good choices.  But in the deathmatch, there is only one winner:

Travis Etienne

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

Bounce Back Buys: Akers, Etienne, and Dobbins

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Bounce Back Buys: Akers, Etienne, and Dobbins

By Darren Smith

 

The 2020 and 2021 draft classes were loaded with some promising young Running Backs. Unfortunately, the injury bug waits for no man. Three big names drafted in the early rounds the last two years had their seasons cut short and had Dynasty Managers asking questions on what to do with their high 1st round picks. Travis Etienne, JK Dobbins, and Cam Akers all missed almost the entirety of last season with serious injuries, but their outlook on the 2022 season is in question. I’m here to put your mind at ease, and these injuries have created huge BUY opportunities with these talented backs.

 

Cam Akers

Cam Akers was the first domino to fall in the laundry list of injuries that happened in the 2021 Preseason. Akers tore his Achilles during the Rams training camp, leaving his sophomore season in jeopardy. Cam was drafted 52nd overall in the 2020 draft and had a promising rookie season leaving managers hungry for more as his fantasy capital rose. When news was announced that Akers tore his Achilles, it broke the hearts of many managers as this injury has one of the highest impacts on future NFL careers based on history.

However, modern medicine has progressed, and Akers had a successful surgery and rehab as he was able to return in Week 18, and the Rams postseason. While his box score didn’t turn many heads, the truth was in the film. Akers looked explosive in the minimal carries he was given, and his speed remained the same. Most managers were pleasantly surprised as he didn’t regress as much as initially thought as it was pretty much a miracle he came back this season at all.

The Rams went on to win the Super Bowl as they went “All In” this season. The RB position will have vacancy after free agency with Sony Michel likely to part ways, and Darrell Henderson being on the last year of his contract. This paves a direct path to a bell-cow role for Akers as he has all off season to continue recovery. There aren't too many players that I am more excited to see come back to NFL action than Cam Akers. With managers panicked about the stigma of an Achilles injury, Akers is being shopped around in most leagues for a discount. While there is some doubt he will ever return to true form, the sheer volume and workload that he will carry into 2022 will be enough. Akers is a strong buy and should exceed all expectations when he fully recovers.

 

Travis Etienne

Travis Etienne missed his entire rookie campaign with a Lisfranc injury in his left foot. Drafted 25th overall in 2021 by Jacksonville and coming off a stellar season at Clemson, Etienne had huge buzz coming into last season. Dynasty managers had to spend high draft picks on Etienne in hopes of becoming a bell-cow right out the gate. Etienne was only in the 2nd week of Preseason when it was declared he would miss the year, so managers didn’t get any chance to get a gauge on his production, and ultimately his fantasy value.

To me, this injury can be spun in a positive way. The Jacksonville Jaguars were a complete mess the entire season with new head coach Urban Meyer, who thankfully was fired before the season ended. There were obvious growing pains with the rookie Quarterback, Trevor Lawrence, leaving the offense stagnant and in the bottom tier of the league. Etienne may have dodged a bullet in 2021 as things are looking positive for the upcoming season. He has progressed significantly since the initial injury, publicly stating “I definitely feel like as of now I'll be ready to go for training camp.” While injured, Travis has been studying the game and learning a new offense with his former Clemson teammate Lawrence. This dynamic duo should make some noise this year with some experience under their belts. Not to mention change in the staff, with the Jags hiring Super Bowl winner Doug Pederson. 

Travis was a top pick in rookie drafts across the board, and obviously his value declined after the injury. If you haven’t already, Etienne is a perfect buy candidate for the upcoming season. Although he is progressing well, season ending injuries are never taken lightly by managers and leave doubt as to whether they will ever return to true form. Based on his young age, modern medicine and training, and recovery of Lisfranc injuries, I have strong confidence that Etienne will come back just as explosive as his record-breaking days in Clemson. Go after some worried owners with late 1st round pick offers. If you currently own Etienne, don’t take any low ball offers - holding is the right move as his value will shoot up when Travis retakes the field.

 

JK Dobbins

The NFL and fantasy managers didn’t even get a chance to breathe before the next devastating injury to a young RB in Baltimore. Dobbins tore his ACL during the final Preseason game of the 2021 season and ruined some Redraft leagues seconds after the news broke. Poised for an excellent sophomore year, managers were devastated being so close to the start of the regular season. Dobbins finished as the RB 23 in PPR leagues during his rookie campaign, finishing the final game with 160 rushing yards and two touchdowns. 

Being the 55th pick in the 2020 draft, Dobbins was another asset with high rookie draft capital in dynasty leagues. Luckily, an ACL tear may take time to heal, but in recent years it has had little effect on the remainder of NFL players careers. The Ravens had incredibly bad luck in 2021 with significant injuries to most of their skill players, including QB Lamar Jackson. With all players returning after recovery this offseason, Dobbins comes back to the Number 1 rushing offense in the NFL. With promising pass catching abilities, Dobbins has all the potential in the world to be a top back.

Dobbins had successful surgery six months ago, and every piece of news since has said rehab is going as well as it could be. GM Eric Decosta publicly stated “we are very, very confident that he will come back and be the type of player that he was two years ago. This should give you no doubt that the 23 year old coming into this 3rd season will be heavily utilized to his potential. JK Dobbins is a buy at the right price. Given the lack of RB talent in the 2022 class, high draft picks can be traded to acquire Dobbins. He should be a strong hold if you already have him on your rosters.

 

Conclusion

While all three Running Backs have had devastating injuries that caused them to miss the majority of the 2021 season, all signs point to full recovery and full workloads in 2022. Don’t let injury news scare you into avoiding these backs. They are all buy candidates, and should be targeted in the early rounds of startups as I have seen them fall over some guys that just won’t have the same production. Akers, Etienne, and Dobbins will be an integral part in the future of NFL Running Backs. What do you think? Are you concerned about reinjury, volume, or something else? 

 

Let me know your thoughts on Twitter, @FFBirdGang.

Jacksonville Jaguars Post-Draft Analysis

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Jacksonville Jaguars Post-Draft Analysis

By Brian Ford

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ 2021 draft class is led by two first round picks and college teammates, Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence and Travis Etienne. After addressing defense and offensive line with most of the rest of their picks, the Jaguars selected tight end Luke Farrell in the fifth round, and wide receiver Jalen Camp in the sixth. Much of their offensive production will depend on how Lawrence and Etienne develop, and both have the potential to contribute right away.

Lawrence, dubbed a “generational” quarterback prospect, had been touted as the number one overall pick since high school. His 6’6” frame, rushing upside, and ability to make a variety of throws make him a good bet to thrive in the NFL. Against elite competition and while under pressure, his performance faltered a bit, but every prospect has flaws. 

While coach Urban Meyer has his detractors, it is hard to imagine Lawrence will not be a big part of an improving Jaguars squad. Lawrence inherits some good weapons in Jacksonville. Returning receivers DJ Chark and Laviska Shenault are joined by free agent Marvin Jones and 2020 rookie Collin Johnson. Etienne and returning 2020 UDFA running back James Robinson form a solid backfield duo. It is bound to get better than the 1-15 2020 mark in Jacksonville.

But what can we expect from Lawrence in fantasy? Lawrence has elite talent and good weapons, The team will be playing from behind a lot, which should mean high passing volume. His rushing upside provides a safe fantasy floor, too. Lawrence should be a solid contributor in 2021 and an elite dynasty asset moving forward.

Etienne’s fantasy outlook is a bit less clear. Meyer called him a third down back on draft night and worked him out at wide receiver in spring OTAs. Robinson looms there after a very solid 2020 campaign. Since Jacksonville spent a first round pick on him, Etienne should get plenty of opportunity to prove himself and earn touches. We should see him start as a pass catching back and run some routes out wide, too, It is entirely possible, though, that Etienne’s role could grow at the expense of Robinson. That would make him a great value. Even if he remains a third down back and gadget player, the high passing volume that helps Lawrence will help Etienne, too. 

Lawrence and Etienne are the elite pieces of this draft class. Lawrence is the 1.01 in just about every superflex rookie draft, and Etienne is a mid-first rounder. Even in 1QB rookie drafts, Lawrence finds a way into the first round, and Etienne goes earlier. In startups, Lawrence is among the top-12 quarterbacks taken, and Etienne is being selected ahead of several solid, experienced veteran. Many dynasty managers will have a lot invested in these two Jaguars, and, although each may take some time to find their way in 2021, both should be fine dynasty assets moving forward.

Farrell and Camp may not even make the final roster. Though given the lack of contributors at tight end for the Jaguars, Farrell will have the better shot. He could be a fifth round rookie draft pick or post-rookie draft waiver target, and could be worth a very deep flier in startups.

Overall, the Jaguars two draft headliners will look to push the team forward and there really is not anywhere to go but up for Jacksonville. Both should be very good dynasty assets, with Lawrence clearly having the bigger upside. If Urban Meyer can make the transition to the NFL well, our expectations for Lawrence and Etienne will be even higher. Draft both with confidence.

 

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

 

 

Landing Spot Doesn’t Matter. Najee Harris is the RB1.

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Najee Harris is the RB1 and Landing Spot Doesn’t Matter 

By: Collin Kral

Najee Harris, Travis Etienne, and Javonte Williams are the consensus top three running backs in the 2021 draft class. However, As dynasty owners, it is important to explore why Najee Harris is the top guy no matter what happens at the NFL Draft. All three of these players have been able to show incredible talent at the collegiate level, but what really matters is which players are able to translate what same success to the NFL. 

Najee Harris 

Height: 6’2” Weight: 230 lbs. 

Najee Harris was highly recruited out of high school but truly exploded onto the scene in his junior season. Harris racked up 1,224 yards and 13 touchdowns on 209 carries while adding a 27/304/7 receiving line. Expected to enter the draft, he was positioned behind Taylor, Swift, and Dobbins.  He made the decision to return to Alabama for his senior year.  Not only did he improve his stats drastically, but also his overall ability as a running back. Harris put up an incredible state line of 1,466 yards and 26 touchdowns on 251 carries with a 43/425/4 receiving line.

However, this is not what made me fall in love with Harris. He has the ability to be a true three-down back in the NFL. His footwork at his size and his ability to make defenders miss is truly impressive.  Also with his size, what truly sets him apart is his capabilities in the passing game. Harris became an effective pass blocker and is also able to catch the ball out of the backfield. As I have watched tape on him, I have had to dig to try and find any weaknesses or reasons to question his ability at the next level. The conclusion that I came to and I am forced to ask myself is can Harris produce at the NFL level when he is not running behind the best offensive line in the nation? My opinion is, yes. Harris has shown at the collegiate level that he is willing to fight for extra yards whether it be 20 yards downfield or 3 yards behind the line of scrimmage and I do not see that changing when he plays on Sundays. 

Travis Etienne 

Height: 5’10” Weight: 205 lbs. 

Travis Ettiene has had nothing but a spectacular collegiate career. In his sophomore year he had 1,658 yards 24 touchdowns on 204 carries adding a 12/78/2 receiving line and in his junior year he had 1,614 yards and 19 touchdowns on 207 carries while adding an improved 37/432/4 receiving line. After his junior year, I think everyone would have guessed he would have joined the highly touted 2020 running back draft class, however he decided to return to college for his senior season. In a shortened season, Ettiene added 914 yards and 14 touchdowns on 168 carries and a 48/588/2 receiving line to add to his impressive collegiate career. Ettiene has been arguably the most feared player in open space in college football since he began playing on Saturdays.

The question remains...can he do this on Sundays?

I do not believe there is anyone who questions Ettiene’s ability as a runner in open space and he has certainly shown improvements as a pass catcher. My biggest concerns are if he will be able to be a three down back in the NFL. While watching tape I could not help but notice his tendency to go down on first contact when running between the tackles and sometimes on the edge when he did not have a clear angle. I am also concerned with his ability to pass protect in the NFL.  His talent is not in question.  However, I do fear the realistic chance he is not the three-down back everyone is hoping for. 

Javonte Williams 

Height: 5’10” Weight: 220 lbs. 

Javonte Williams had a solid sophomore year at UNC with 933 yard and 5 touchdowns on 166 carries adding a 17/176/1 receiving line. However, as it happens with at least one player each year, Williams has jumped up on everyone's boards from out of nowhere after posting a junior season stat line of 1,140 yards and 19 touchdowns on 157 carries adding a solid 25/305/3 receiving line. While watching Williams tape, what has impressed me the most, is his contact balance. There are not many plays where you see him go down on first contact or even second in many cases.

Williams was another player, a lot like Harris, where I struggled to find things that I was concerned about in his transition to the NFL. My biggest note as to why I do not believe there is a case scenario in which he passes Harris, is that he does not have the same explosiveness. Williams was certainly able to show his big play capabilities through the run and passing game, but I did not notice him hit the holes between the tackles in the same way that Harris did.  Another somewhat concerning thing was his the fact he was in a split backfield with fellow draft prospect Michael Carter.  I won't harp on that too much, but one does have to wonder if he is indeed a workhorse back.

Why we should not let history repeat itself?

Over the past few drafts, we have all made some notable mistakes across the dynasty community by allowing landing spots to influence our decisions. A notable player, Nick Chubb, was drafted in 2018 by the Cleveland Browns. Since Carlos Hyde was considered the starting running back, Nick Chubb slowly slid down dynasty players' boards. Chubb was still drafted early in most drafts, but fell behind players he was more talented than (i.e. Royce Freeman) because he did not have as generous of a landing spot.

In 2019, A.J. Brown was selected by the Tennessee Titans. The Titans were not an attractive landing spot because of their low passing volume and the lack of success Corey Davis had at that point in his career. Many believed that Brown was potentially the most well-rounded wide receiver in the draft, however his landing spot did not appear to be favorable. I

n 2020, Clyde Edwards-Helaire was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs and soared up draft boards to become many dynasty players number one pick. Pre-draft, Clyde Edwards-Helaire was behind Jonathan Taylor, D’Andre Swift, J.K. Dobbins, and...in some eyes...Cam Akers. As we all found out, Edwards-Helaire disappointed many teams that drafted him with the number one overall pick. This is not to say that CEH can’t have a terrific career, but many wish they would have taken Taylor, Swift, or Dobbins if they had the opportunity. 

Hopefully, after evaluating each player and opening up old wounds, we will not make the mistake of passing on Najee Harris. We often put too much weight on landing spots and situations we believe are more favorable, instead of trusting a player's talent. This offseason it is important to remember to draft talent instead of situation and “what could be”. 

You can follow mer on Twitter @collinkral

2021 NFL Draft Eligible Rankings

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2021 NFL Draft Eligible Rankings

 by Tommy Harvey

It’s the middle of June 2020 and I am already thinking of the 2021 NFL draft and how
those players could fit on my fantasy football teams. I know I’m not the only one either.
It’s never too early to start looking ahead at what could be available to you in next
season’s rookie draft.
In SuperFlex leagues, the conversation will begin with the two “can’t miss”
Quarterbacks, but there is plenty of talent available at the other positions. Of course,
Alabama and Clemson will have top tier players in the draft, but there are alot of guys
you need to know about in order to effectively and efficiently plan ahead. That is the
reason I decided to compile a detailed list of who I see as the best draft eligible NFL
prospects for the 2021 NFL Draft.
*This list is comprised of 2021 NFL draft eligible offensive skill players by position with IDPs*

(Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images)

Quarterback
1. Trevor Lawrence (JR - Clemson) 6’6”, 220lbs
- Lawrence has long been considered the best QB prospect in years. Going back
to his time at Cartersville High School, he was looked at as a “can’t miss” guy.
Lawrence took over as the Clemson QB 5 games into his freshman season and
has led the Tigers to two consecutive National Title games, including a blowout
National Championship win over Alabama in his debut campaign. He showed a
more than adequate ability to run, which only enhances his value as a franchise
QB.
2. Justin Fields (JR - Ohio State) 6’3”, 227lbs
- Fields is a big time talent, who transferred to Ohio State after his freshman year
at Georgia. After his incredible Heisman Finalist season where he threw for 41
TDs and only 3 INTs, Fields will be a top Heisman candidate again. His ability to
elude and run away from defenders is a very good plus in today’s NFL.
3. Trey Lance (RS SO - North Dakota State) 6’3”, 221lbs
- Lance really emerged as a draftable prospect last season after he led the Bison
to a 16-0 FCS National Championship season. His amazing ability to throw and
run are Lamar Jackson-esque, and he will look to show off his skills again this
season. In 2019, Lance completed close to 67% of his passes for over 2,700
yards and 28 TDs with 0 (that’s right...ZERO) INTs to go with 1,100 yards and 14
TDs on the ground.
4. Jamie Newman (RS SR - Georgia) 6’4”, 229lbs
- Newman has yet to start a game for the Bulldogs after transferring from Wake
Forest, but he has all the tools to be a solid NFL Quarterback. Georgia is in a
position to win a National Title, so they have to trust Newman in order to hand
the team over to him. His 62% career completion percentage is a tad low when
compared to other high-end Quarterback prospects, but he played in a highly
complex offense at Wake Forest. Now at Georgia, Newman has the possibility to
become a household name.
5. Brock Purdy (JR - Iowa State) 6’1, 209lbs
6. Tanner Morgan (JR - Minnesota) 6’2”, 216lbs
7. Sam Ehlinger (SR - Texas) 6’3”, 229lbs
8. Kellen Mond (SR - Texas A&M) 6’2”, 217lbs
9. KJ Costello (RS SR - Mississippi State) 6’5”, 223lbs
10. Sean Clifford (RS JR - Penn State) 6’2”, 216lbs
*Also in consideration: Kyle Trask (Florida), D’Eriq King (Miami), Shane Buechele (SMU), Dustin Crum
(Kent State), Jack Coan (Wisconsin), Zach Wilson (BYU), Ian Book (Notre Dame), Jarrett Guarantano
(Tennessee)*

(Photo by rolltide.com)

Running Back
1. Travis Etienne (SR - Clemson) 5’10”, 210lbs
- Etienne could have been the first RB off the board during this past draft, but he
chose to stay in school for his senior season. It’s hard to blame him considering
Clemson is a favorite to win the National Championship. Coming off
back-to-back 1,600 yard seasons, his ability to find the endzone is remarkable.
In three seasons, Etienne has scored 51 rushing TDs. He also showed the
ability to catch the ball out of the backfield in 2019 with 432 yards and 4
additional TDs on 37 receptions.
2. Najee Harris (SR - Alabama) 6’2”, 229lbs
- Harris’ return to Alabama for his Senior season was somewhat of a surprise, but
not completely out of left field like Etienne’s. 2019 was Harris’ first season as the
bell cow, and he did not disappoint. In an absolutely loaded offense, Harris ran
for 1,224 yards and 13 TDs and showed off good hands with 27 catches and 304
yards. In a similar mold to Derrick Henry, Harris could be in line to be the next
Alabama Pro Bowl caliber RB.
3. Chuba Hubbard (RS JR - Oklahoma State) 6’0”, 201lbs
- After a ridiculous Junior season that saw Hubbard run for 2,094 yards and 23
TDs, he is returning for his Senior season. Undoubtedly, a potential Heisman
candidate, Hubbard will also look to prove himself worthy of being the top
Running Back taken in the 2021 NFL Draft.
4. Kenneth Gainwell (RS SO - Memphis) 5’11”, 191lbs
- Memphis has really pumped out some good Running Backs over the past few
years. Gainwell is the next one, and could possibly be the best one. He ran for
1,459 yards and 13 TDs and caught another 51 balls for 610 yards in his
Redshirt Freshman year. Now a Redshirt Junior, Gainwell finds himself
positioned as one of the top RBs in this draft class. His value to NFL teams is
really magnified with his pass catching ability.
5. Trey Sermon (SR - Ohio State) 6’0”, 220lbs
- In three seasons with Oklahoma, Sermon ran for over 2,000 yards and 25 TDs.
After splitting time with Kennedy Brooks, Sermon decided to transfer to Ohio
State as a graduate transfer. His immediate eligibility means he will be a major
part of the Buckeyes offense. He will take over JK Dobbins role in 2020.
6. Journey Brown (RS JR - Penn State) 5’11”, 216lbs
7. Kylin Hill (SR - Mississippi State) 5’11”, 216lbs
8. Max Borghi (JR - Washington State) 5’10”, 197lbs
9. CJ Verdell (RS JR - Oregon) 5’9”, 210lbs
10. Zamir White (RS SO - Georgia) 6’0”, 215lbs
*Also in consideration: Jermar Jefferson (Oregon State), Kennedy Brooks (Oklahoma), Rakeem Boyd
(Arkansas), Demetric Felton (UCLA), Keaontay Ingram (Texas), Pooka Williams (Kansas), Mohamed
Ibrahim (Minnesota), Javian Hawkins (Louisville), Elijah Collins (Michigan State)*

(Photo by 247sports.com)

Wide Receiver
1. Ja’Marr Chase (JR - LSU) 6’1”, 200lbs
- Does everyone remember how good Justin Jefferson was for LSU in 2019? Well,
Ja’Marr Chase was arguably better. 84 receptions, 1,780 yards, 20 TDs, and a
Biletnikoff award later, Chase returns to LSU as the absolute best WR prospect
in the 2021 draft. Joe Burrow is replaced by Myles Brennan, but Chase is
unstoppable as you will see in college football.
2. DeVonta Smith (SR - Alabama) 6’1”, 175lbs
- Smith exhibited tremendous talent last season on a team with a stacked Wide
Receiver corps. On a team with Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs, and Jaylen Waddle,
Smith still put up monster numbers. He led the Crimson Tide with 1,256 yards
and 14 TDs. Without Jeudy and Ruggs around this season, Smith will be called
upon to exceed last season’s lofty stats.
3. Jaylen Waddle (JR - Alabama) 5’10”, 183lbs
- Waddle, along with DeVonta Smith, are back for Alabama in 2020. To say
Jaylen Waddle is fast is an understatement, as he has elite speed. Henry Ruggs
was considered to be the fastest WR on the Alabama roster last season, but
Waddle’s speed rivals his. The top returning return guy in the country, Waddle
will be asked to fill Ruggs’ shoes as a receiver.
4. Tamorrion Terry (RS JR - Florida State) 6’4”, 219lbs
- Terry added 16lbs this offseason according to Florida State Head Coach Mike
Norvell, and is looking to add on to his outstanding 2019 season. With Norvell in
charge in Tallahasse, Terry could reach astronomical numbers in 2020.
5. Rashod Bateman (JR - Minnesota) 6’2”, 209lbs
- Bateman had 60 receptions, 1,219 yards, and 11 TDs last season for the
Gophers. What’s even more impressive is those numbers came with Tyler
Johnson on the field with him. Now that Johnson has moved on to catching
passes from Tom Brady, Bateman will be THE man for Minnesota and QB
Tanner Morgan.
6. Amon-Ra St. Brown (JR - USC) 6’1”, 195lbs
7. Tylan Wallace (SR - Oklahoma State) 6’0”, 185lbs
8. Justyn Ross (JR - Clemson) 6’4”, 205lbs *dropped due to recent season-ending surgery*
9. Rondale Moore (JR - Purdue) 5’9”, 181lbs
10. Charleston Rambo (RS JR - Oklahoma) 6’1”, 179lbs
*Also in consideration: Damonte Coxie (Memphis), Sage Surratt (Wake Forest), Jhamon Ausbon (Texas
A&M), Chris Olave (Ohio State), Terrace Marshall (LSU), Seth Williams (Auburn), Tyler Vaughs (USC),
Jacob Copeland (Florida), Tutu Atwell (Louisville), Brennan Eagles (Texas), Dazz Newsome (North Carolina), Elijah Moore (Mississippi), Warren Jackson (Colorado State), Nico Collins (Michigan), Dyami Brown (North Carolina), Justin Shorter (Florida)*

(Photo by stateoftheu.com)

Tight End
1. Brevin Jordan (JR - Miami) 6’3”, 245lbs
- Jordan, a former 4* recruit, has put together a tremendous first two seasons at
Miami. After being named to the All-ACC 2nd team as a Freshman, Jordan was
named to the 1st team as a Sophomore. At 245lbs, he has good speed and
could be the 1st TE off the board.
2. Kyle Pitts (JR - Florida) 6’6”, 239lbs
- Pitts was named to the All-SEC 1st team in 2019 after recording 54 catches, 649
yards, and 5 TDs for the Gators. A former Under Armour All-American in high
school, Pitts will compete with Brevin Jordan to be the top TE in the 2021 draft.
3. Pat Freiermuth (JR - Penn State) 6’5”, 256lbs
- Freiermuth has caught 69 passes for 875 yards and 15 TDs in his first two
seasons in Happy Valley. He is clearly a main target for QB Sean Clifford and
will garner alot of All-American consideration. I see Jason Witten at Tennessee
when I see Freiermuth play. Those are heavy words, but he has the talent.
4. Charlie Kolar (RS JR - Iowa State) 6’6”, 252lbs
- In 2019, Kolar was a semi-finalist for the Mackey Award, which is awarded to the
nation’s best TE. He could be the best of the TEs in this draft class by the time
it’s all said and done. He’s shown he can dominate in the Big 12.
5. Jake Ferguson (RS JR - Wisconsin) 6’5”, 246lbs
- Ferguson proved to be a consistent force last season as he more or less
duplicated his solid Redshirt Freshman year numbers (36 receptions, 456 yards,
4 TDs) in his Sophomore season (33 receptions, 407 yards, 2 TDs). If he can do
the same and better in 2020, Ferguson will get an opportunity to be a mid-round
draft pick.

 

IDP
1. Micah Parsons, LB (JR - Penn State) 6’3”, 245lbs
2. Gregory Rousseau, EDGE (JR - Miami) 6’6”, 251lbs
3. Joe Tryon, EDGE (JR - Washington) 6’5”, 262lbs
4. Shaun Wade, CB (JR - Ohio State) 6’1”, 194lbs
5. Patrick Surtain II, CB (JR - Alabama) 6’2”, 203lbs
6. Richard LeCounte, S (SR - Georgia) 5’11”, 190lbs
7. Andre Cisco, S (JR - Syracuse) 6’0”, 203lbs
8. Dylan Moses, LB (SR - Alabama) 6’3”, 233lbs
9. Carlos Basham, EDGE (SR - Wake Forest) 6’5”, 275lbs
10. Chazz Surratt, LB (SR- North Carolina) 6’3”, 230lbs
11. LaBryan Ray, DE/DT (JR - Alabama) 6’5”, 292lbs
12. Marvin Wilson, DT (SR - Florida State) 6’5”, 311lbs
13. Israel Mukuamu, CB (SR - South Carolina) 6’4”, 205lbs
14. Jay Tufele, DT (JR - USC) 6’3”, 315lbs
15. Quincy Roche, EDGE (SR - Miami) 6’4”, 235lbs

@DynastyProsTom