Our THREE Favorite Fantasy Fits on New Teams + 💪 Austin Ekeler Fears No One!

Summary

Podcast Summary: Fantasy Focus Football – "Our THREE Favorite Fantasy Fits on New Teams + 💪 Austin Ekeler Fears No One!"

Release Date: July 23, 2025

In this special episode of ESPN's Fantasy Focus Football, hosts Liz Loza, David Presley, and guest Austin Ekeler delve into the dynamic landscape of the NFL offseason, focusing on key players transitioning to new teams and their potential impact on fantasy football strategies. The episode is structured to provide listeners with in-depth analysis, strategic insights, and engaging discussions, all enriched with notable quotes and timestamps for easy reference.

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1. Introduction: Embracing Change in Fantasy Football [00:00 – 07:33]

Liz Loza opens the episode by setting the tone for a revamped format centered around "facts versus feelings." She emphasizes the inevitability of change in the NFL offseason and encourages fantasy managers to leverage new team dynamics to their advantage.

Key Points:

• Embracing Change: Liz introduces the theme that adapting to player movements can uncover hidden fantasy value.
• Player Focus: The discussion centers on veterans moving to new teams and how these transitions can create favorable conditions for fantasy success.

Notable Quote:

Liz Loza (00:14): "Change is inevitable. So stop resisting it and start leaning into new possibilities."

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2. Top Fantasy Fits on New Teams [02:05 – 07:33]

The trio explores three veteran players who have recently changed teams, analyzing how these moves could enhance their fantasy football prospects.

a. Devonta Adams – Jets to Rams [02:15 – 03:34]

Devonta Adams' shift to the Los Angeles Rams sparks significant discussion. Despite concerns about no longer being paired with Aaron Rodgers, the abundance of targets and the synergy with new quarterback Matt Stafford present a compelling case for his fantasy value.

Key Insights:

• Increased Efficiency: Adams is expected to have higher efficiency due to better quarterback play.
• Target Volume: With Cooper Kupp's departure, Adams could see over 100 targets, maintaining his position among the top 12 fantasy wide receivers.

Notable Quotes:

Liz Loza (02:27): "Devonta Adams is a great compliment to Puka Nukua and I do think that while probably his targets per game will go down to about seven, his efficiency with Stafford under center will in fact increase."

Austin Ekeler (03:27): "I am taking him over Tyreek Hill. I have just for reference, him one spot ahead in my rankings of Tyreek Hill."

b. Javante Williams – New York Jets to Dallas Cowboys [03:42 – 05:00]

Javante Williams' move to the Dallas Cowboys is assessed, focusing on his potential to rebound after a disappointing 2024 season.

Key Insights:

• Volume Opportunity: With Rico Dowdle averaging 17 touches per game, Williams has the chance to secure RB2 status.
• Competition for Touches: Despite competition from Miles Sanders and rookie Jaden Blue, Williams is viewed as a valuable late-round pick due to potential volume in a robust Cowboys offense.

Notable Quote:

Liz Loza (04:40): "So if we're looking at volume and value, I think Williams is presenting with RB2 opportunity."

c. Evan Ingram – Previous Team to Denver Broncos [05:08 – 07:00]

Evan Ingram's transition to Denver is scrutinized, especially his role in a rapidly improving offense under a new quarterback.

Key Insights:

• Role Clarity: Ingram is expected to function as a supercharged slot receiver, making approximately 100 targets.
• PPR Formats: His increased reception count makes him particularly valuable in PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues, despite limited red-zone opportunities.

Notable Quotes:

Liz Loza (05:38): "Evan Ingram is essentially working as a super sized slot receiver for Bo Nix."

Austin Ekeler (06:02): "Sean Payton made Jimmy Graham a thing, so, you know, I could see it happening."

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3. Interview with Austin Ekeler: Navigating a New Team [09:04 – 21:49]

Former Co-Host and NFL running back Austin Ekeler joins the show to discuss his transition to the Washington Commanders, his approach to the game, and his insights into fantasy football.

a. Transition to Washington Commanders [09:53 – 11:19]

Austin shares his emotional journey moving from the Chargers to the Commanders, highlighting the challenges and excitement of adapting to a new team culture and playbook.

Key Insights:

• Cultural Shift: Emphasizes building new relationships and adapting to a fresh team environment.
• Personal Adjustments: Discusses personal life changes, including relocating after marriage.

Notable Quote:

Austin Ekeler (10:13): "The bitter part was leaving what I had started... but sweet, because it was the means to a new beginning."

b. Impact of Mobile Quarterbacks on Running Backs [11:50 – 15:47]

The conversation delves into how mobile quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Jalen Hurts influence the roles and fantasy value of running backs.

Key Insights:

• Carry Distribution: Mobile QBs may take some carries, potentially reducing a running back's workload but increasing play efficiency.
• Pass Protection: Effective protection from versatile QBs can lead to more impactful plays for running backs.

Notable Quote:

Austin Ekeler (13:12): "When you have a quarterback that's running, it's about longevity in your running back and efficiency in their carries."

c. Fantasy Football Advice and Drafting Strategies [16:02 – 18:32]

Austin provides strategic advice for fantasy managers, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and reliability, especially when drafting running backs.

Key Insights:

• Efficiency Over Volume: Highlighting his consistent performance and reliability as key factors for fantasy success.
• Top Picks: Advocates for securing high-potential players like Christian McCaffrey early in drafts despite injury concerns.

Notable Quotes:

Austin Ekeler (16:36): "If you're able to get me as a late pick, boom. That's an opportunity to have someone that's going to be reliable."

David Presley (17:22): "Christian McCaffrey should be a top five pick."

d. "Fact or Feeling" Segment [18:36 – 20:41]

A playful segment where Austin distinguishes between factual statements and personal feelings, adding a light-hearted element to the episode.

Key Highlights:

• Interactive Fun: Engaging content that blends fantasy football with entertaining trivia.
• Player Engagement: Demonstrates Austin's personable side and deep knowledge of the game.

Notable Moments:

• Correctly identifying "Fantasy is just a game" as a fact.
• Debating whether "Nothing Else Matters by Metallica is an overrated song."

e. CharityDraft.com Promotion [20:54 – 21:49]

Austin introduces CharityDraft.com, a platform marrying fantasy football with charitable causes, allowing participants to compete in tournaments for exclusive prizes while supporting selected charities.

Key Highlights:

• Unique Value Proposition: Combines the excitement of playing fantasy football with philanthropic efforts.
• Exclusive Prizes: Offers game jerseys, tickets, and game-worn items as rewards.

Notable Quote:

Austin Ekeler (20:28): "Fantasy for good is always the best kind of fantasy."

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4. Player Spotlight: Jordan Mason – The Underdog RB [21:49 – 22:40]

Liz Loza shifts focus to Jordan Mason, a running back who has often been overshadowed by stars like Christian McCaffrey and Aaron Jones. Despite being a backup, Mason's performance when given opportunities highlights his potential as a late-round fantasy gem.

Key Insights:

• Performance Metrics: Mason ranked RB5 in yards per carry with 5.2 YPC and RB22 in red zone touches last season.
• Red Zone Opportunities: Expected to take more goal-line carries, offering significant weekly upside.
• Strategic Value: Ideal for 14th-round drafts, providing reliable depth and potential breakout performances.

Notable Quote:

Liz Loza (22:00): "Jordan Mason offers managers weekly upside in the 14th round of most fantasy drafts."

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5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts [22:40 – End]

Liz Loza wraps up the episode by reinforcing the key takeaway that adapting to player movements and leveraging new team dynamics can unlock significant fantasy football value. She encourages listeners to embrace change, utilize insights from the episode, and enjoy the upcoming fantasy season.

Key Takeaways:

• Adaptability: Emphasizing the importance of staying flexible and informed about player transitions.
• Strategic Drafting: Leveraging late-round picks for high-upside players like Jordan Mason.
• Community Engagement: Highlighting platforms like CharityDraft.com that enhance the fantasy experience through philanthropy.

Final Notable Quote:

Liz Loza (22:40): "Remember, every season brings a fresh start, so have some fun with it. Definitely use the lessons you learned from then to inform your now, but don't cling to what was or you might miss out on what could be."

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Overall Insights: This episode of Fantasy Focus Football serves as a comprehensive guide for fantasy managers navigating the complexities of the NFL offseason. By analyzing key player moves, offering strategic drafting advice, and highlighting under-the-radar talents, Liz Loza, David Presley, and Austin Ekeler provide listeners with valuable tools to enhance their fantasy football performance. The inclusion of interactive segments and charitable initiatives adds depth and engagement, making this episode both informative and entertaining.

Transcript

[Liz Loza]

Fantasy.

[David Presley]

You're in the whole six zero one zero.

[Liz Loza]

Focus. Fantasy.

[David Presley]

Fantasy focus.

[Liz Loza]

If you were expecting your usual dose of fantasy focus, then this is your official plot twist, because facts versus feelings is taking over the feed. Welcome. I'm Liz Loza, and today's fact is that change is inevitable. So stop resisting it and start leaning into new possibilities, like this special episode where we bring you plenty of fantasy football talk, but with a different vibe and probably a little chaos. You know me, but you may not know my producer. It's Mr. David Presley. David, welcome.

[David Presley]

Hi, Liz.

[Austin Ekeler]

I'm happy to be here. I am excited for this year's fantasy football season. I'm already mock drafting.

[Liz Loza]

Are you? Oh, my gosh. Well, what are you. Are you finding it? I mean, I know we're gonna get into a lot, but what was the biggest surprise just off the dome that you have found from mocking, that I'm.

[Austin Ekeler]

Wildly underprepared and definitely see myself avoiding Christian McCaffrey as much as I possibly can. And I just have a feeling that that's gonna be a mistake.

[Liz Loza]

Did you read my Red Flags Players article?

[Austin Ekeler]

I read all your articles, Liz.

[Liz Loza]

Well, then you should be liking cmc, but we will get to that a little bit later. I think right now we should just play the disclaimer.

[Austin Ekeler]

Yeah, let's hit it. Fantasy football is a game of inches, luck, and irrational confidence. Proceed with caution, trust your gut, and remember, ADP is a suggestion, not a command. Mock draft's a fantasy. Your real draft is war. And just because you heard it on this show doesn't mean you should do it. If all goes wrong, just say your account was heck.

[Liz Loza]

Every off season, there's this reshuffling of talent, but this particular year, there's some pretty big name vets moving to new locations. And I get it. The prospect of change can be scary, but it can also light a fire. So I want to talk about some players that. That have been around the block but still got it.

[Austin Ekeler]

And let's also say the change is.

[David Presley]

Neither good or bad.

[Austin Ekeler]

It simply is. Oh, Liz, I love the name of this segment. Who we got?

[David Presley]

First Team me up.

[Austin Ekeler]

Team me up. Player one.

[Liz Loza]

Well, you cannot talk about players who have been around the block but still got it without beginning with Devonte Adams moving from the jets to the Rams. Big reaction from you, Dave. What are your immediate thoughts?

[Austin Ekeler]

I mean, I just said I was. I've been Mark drafting, and in the beginning of my journey, I was not drafting him. And the more and more and more I mock, the more I'M like, you know what?

[David Presley]

I think he's a sneaky.

[Austin Ekeler]

He's a sneaky little play. Sneaky little play. Devonte Adams Tell me what you got. Give me the facts.

[Liz Loza]

It's interesting to call Devonte Adams sneaky after he's been a top producer at the position for so long. But yes, he is entering his age 32 season. He will no longer be tethered to Aaron Rodgers, who which some are considering a little bit of a concern because he may not be force fed. But listen in Los Angeles, Cooper Cup's departure opens up 100 plus targets and we know that Matt Stafford can still sling it. Devonte Adams is a great compliment to Puka Nukua and I do think that while probably his targets per game will go down to about seven, his efficiency with Stafford under center will in fact increase, increase. And still Devonte Adams has top 12 potential in him for fantasy purposes.

[Austin Ekeler]

Are you taking him over Tyreek Hill?

[Liz Loza]

I am taking him over Tyreek Hill. I have just for reference, him one spot ahead in my rankings of lad McConkey.

[Austin Ekeler]

This is why I love doing this show with you, Liz. You've convinced me. I'm hitting Smash most most of the times now on on that draft button with Devonte. I'm excited. Who's next?

[Liz Loza]

Let's talk about devonte Williams. Oh, okay.

[Austin Ekeler]

Let's go to the opposite end of the scale. Let's do it.

[Liz Loza]

Dave, I totally understand. Right. Like Segway scooters, Un Frappuccinos and adulthood, Javante Williams has never lived up to the hype. So there is obvious concern he disappointed in 2024. A lot of people thought he'd have a bounce back season. It didn't happen. But now he is in Dallas. Rico Dowdle averaged 17 touches per game last year. I like that volume. Is there the chance that Javante Williams never regains the form that he exhibited at the top of his career? Absolutely. But again that is a risk I am willing to take in the 10th round of drafts. Who does he have behind him? Miles Sanders and a rookie named Jaden Blue. Could the rookie overtake him? Sure. Is that going to happen week one? Nah, probably not. So if we're looking at volume and value, I think Williams is presenting with RB2 opportunity.

[Austin Ekeler]

Yeah, I mean he's got the talent, right? Like the talents there. I think the injury, the injury definitely hurt him. But I mean you want running backs and good offenses, right? Running backs on good offenses lead to good things. Look at Chase Brown last year. So you know I don't know if I'm hitting the Smash draft button as much as.

[Liz Loza]

I mean, the problem is we're talking about the Cowboys. So, like, are the Cowboys a good offense? This is always, like a bit of a polarizing issue.

[Austin Ekeler]

It's not a great way to start the show, Liz, when you're just trashing Cowboy fans. I guess that's what we do here on ESPN from time to time. But no, I mean, yeah, there's.

[David Presley]

There's.

[Austin Ekeler]

Like you said, there's value. All right. I have to admit, I definitely sneaked a look at this next player.

[Liz Loza]

You sneaked a peek. You sneak to peek.

[Austin Ekeler]

I sneak to peek. And the tight end. The tight end position is the bane of my existence in fantasy football. And this player.

[Liz Loza]

Welcome to fantasy football.

[Austin Ekeler]

Yeah, well, not stating the obvious for everybody, sell me on this one because this player has been on my dynasty team. Don't worry, I have some. I have. I've had some young tight ends in the mix, but this guy's been a struggle for me.

[Liz Loza]

Evan Ingram's 2024 was brutal. He was limited to just nine games because of a hamstring issue. He also had a shoulder injury. He had a surgery on his shoulder during the off season. So 2024, a down effort. Absolutely. But now he also on a new team, he is in Denver, one of the most exciting ascendant offenses in this league, tied to an exciting new quarterback. So I feel like when we look at the pieces in Denver, Ingram has a very clear role. You've got Cortland Sutton on the outside, you've got Marvin Mims on the outside. And then you have Evan Ingram as a short to intermediate, but mostly short safety valve over the middle for. He's basically like a supercharged slot receiver for Bo Nix. He's currently the tight end nine coming off of the board, Mike Clay has him projected to clear 100 targets. So, you know, if I don't get David Njoku about a round or so sooner, I do prefer Njoku because let's be honest, Evan Ingram in the red area of the field is not always.

[Austin Ekeler]

He's allergic to the red zone. Was it one touchdown last season?

[Liz Loza]

No, I'm not disputing that. But in PPR formats, he is essentially working as a super sized slot receiver. So I will take all of that 80 catches out of a tight end that I'm getting super late. I think there's an opportunity for some bounce back here.

[Austin Ekeler]

Sean Payton made Jimmy Graham a thing, so, you know, I could see it happening. I could see it happening.

[Liz Loza]

And There you have it. Some familiar names who, despite change, are offering fantasy managers fresh potential at intriguing value. Next up, a name you definitely know. He's my dear friend, former co host and NFL running back Austin Ekeler. Stay tuned.

[Unknown]

On WhatsApp, no one can see or hear your personal messages. Whether it's a voice call message or sending a password to WhatsApp, it's all just this. So whether you're sharing the streaming password in the family chat or trading those late night voice messages that could basically become a podcast, your personal messages stay between you, your friends and your family. No one else, not even us. WhatsApp message privately with everyone At New Balance, we believe if you run, you're.

[Liz Loza]

A runner.

[Unknown]

However you choose to do it. Because when you're not worried about doing things the right way, you're free to discover your way. And that's what running is all about.

[Liz Loza]

Run your way.

[Unknown]

@Newbalance.Com Running your backyard barbecue has some new RSVPs. Just tap Target. With the grill raring to go, your personal shopper is tackling your same day delivery order at Target, babe.

[David Presley]

So Bob and Lynn are bringing the kids after all.

[Unknown]

Pro tip. You can change your same day order with a quick text to your shopper. I'll have her add popsicles. Ooh, and some sidewalk chalk. Your shopper texts a thumbs up. You text five exclamation points and life is good. Text with a personal shopper and get it all delivered asap. Just tap Target.

[Liz Loza]

I promised you Austin Eckler. And here he is running back for the Washington Commanders, fantasy football expert and creator of charitydraft.com. we'll get into that a bit more later. Austin, welcome to Facts versus Feelings. How have you been, man?

[David Presley]

Wow, I've been. Been awesome. Just continuing to push forward with everything, as you can see, you know, kind of move from coast to coast. I'll also take the fantasy expert as a compliment. I appreciate that. You know, been around the fantasy game a long time. I don't know if I'm as expert as you are, but I appreciate you held your own.

[Liz Loza]

We had our. We had a show for a little bit.

[David Presley]

Yeah, that was, you know, it was, it was a two man show. You know, we did, we did our thing. So I appreciate you for that, for holding up your end and also helping me kind of get my start into the fantasy expert kind of realm. So I appreciate you.

[Liz Loza]

Well, I love that you're mentioning, because obviously the last time we did this together, we were both in different places. You were with the Chargers Then you're now with the commanders. Entering your second year in D.C. how was that process for you, the transition, Learning a new playbook, bonding with new teammates? I want to hear about that from, like a player perspective.

[David Presley]

Yeah, it's a. It's a bittersweet moment. When you've been with the club for so long, you kind of really build roots into that culture, into that community. So, you know, it was one of those things where the bitter part was leaving what I had started, where I had built, you know, that connection with that community, those. Those teammates in that environment. But sweet, because it was the means to a new beginning. And that new beginning was awesome. However, it was also a little challenging because with new things, there's a lot of unexpected things, you know, as far as, like, how's the culture, how are the teammates? You know, where do I live? You know, I just got married, so now I have to move. My wife, she's got to move to the east coast now. And so a lot of new news, which, you know, I attacked them head on and kind of roll with the punches.

[Liz Loza]

The organization also came together in this totally new. And I love that you're mentioning exactly how new it was situation and had an incredible Cinderella season. New doesn't mean that there are obstacles that are not, you know, insurmountable. But in fact, the new could be a whole better new.

[David Presley]

Absolutely. And with sports, it's kind of a roll of the dice, you know, like from a fan's perspective, all, you know, is like, emotion and what you see in the media. And so for us, like, we knew coming into our building and actually after a few weeks, like, okay, like, we have a lot of veterans around here and our culture is really getting shifted in the right direction to actually be a team that feels like we've been playing together for a long time. And then you sprinkle Jaden Daniels in there where it's like, oh, we got a stud over here as well, with a lot of vets around him. And boom, there we go.

[Liz Loza]

So there's always this debate in fantasy when you're drafting running backs that are attached to ultra mobile quarterbacks. So I'm going to ask you specifically because the debate is like, well, on the one hand, they your running back can be, quote, poached at the goal line, right? Josh Allen style. You just mentioned him. Those TDs are vultured. Or there are Ala Sequan and Jalen hurts. Last year, all of these lanes opened up for the running back to like, find holes and rush through. So from your perspective and, you know, keeping that fantasy cap on, which way do you think it goes? Maybe in general and then specific to your situation in Washington, if there's a.

[David Presley]

Running, running quarterback or quarterback that has capability run that's 100% going to take some carries and some opportunities away from the running back, it's because there's only one ball and that's one play that maybe could have gone to yours, but it ended up going to the quarterback. But here's where there's some pluses and that's longevity in your running back. And then also, like you mentioned, now the defense has to play the whole field. So yes, yes, there might be some plays that, hey, then don't go to your running back if that's on your fantasy team. However, the ones that do hopefully are more impactful and there's more efficiency that is in those plays because the quarterback's pulling maybe one defender out of the, out of the box, which is hopefully over time leading to more efficiency down the road for your, for your running back.

[Liz Loza]

So you mentioned the complementary nature of Washington's backfield and that you excel as a pass catcher. Is there part of your game, though, that you think is underrated?

[David Presley]

I, I don't know what's underrated because I feel like I do have respect in the fantasy world, you know, and then the stuff that might be underrated isn't necessarily going to show up on the stat sheets when it comes to like, you know, pass pro. Like, that's why I'm trusted in there on third down, you know, that's exactly.

[Liz Loza]

What I was going to say. I think the underrated part of your game is that people don't realize you're in there chipping all the time.

[David Presley]

Like, it's not just chipping. I'm. I'm shoulder under your chin pad, stoning you in the, in this hole, in the A gap.

[Liz Loza]

It doesn't always have to be fantasy. It can all be cumulative to your style of play. That was exactly the answer I had, so I'm glad you agree. Mention the pass pro. It's important.

[David Presley]

It. It is. And it's. It's kind of unseen importance because it keeps me on the field. It. Coaches trust me to be on the field. Okay, it's third down. Austin, you're good. We know you got all the protections and you'll be able to pick it all up. And you see it really clearly. And it's super important, especially with the young quarterback, because the game moves fast. Sometimes things are a little bit off and it's. If we have a guy that we can trust in there to protect, it's one thing he doesn't have to worry about. Nope, he'll be good. Him and the center be on the same page.

[Liz Loza]

So there's a lot going on. And you're chipping in your pass pro in the chin and all the things. And there's defenders coming at you, stoning.

[David Presley]

Them in the hole.

[Liz Loza]

Which one hits you the hardest? Has there been a defender that you're like, you mentioned the two concussions at the top of last year. Like, which one are you the most fearful of? Will you give a defender some snaps? Never.

[David Presley]

Never, never, never, never, never, never feel fearful of another man out there. 100. Never. Never. You are going into run through their face every time. I don't care who it is. However, there are some that do hit you hard, but I've been playing in the year, in the league for eight years, so I've pretty much mastered not to get teed off on except on kickoff. I got to figure that one out. Not to get off on as a running back, you know, so.

[Liz Loza]

Okay, so hold on. Not most fearful of, but is there a defender you most respect?

[David Presley]

See, these are. These are questions that you asked me. This. You have to respect everybody.

[Liz Loza]

Okay, Fair enough. I'm just. I'm just. I gotta try. Austin, you have to.

[David Presley]

You have to respect everybody like they are the best player. Because you have to go and approach it with the perfect technique, the perfect timing, and be in the right spot, the right time if you're going to be able to make a play. And if you don't respect somebody, that's probably when you're going to get got and everyone gets got. And so sometimes need a reminder. But now for me, no, I'm trying not to get teed off on. I refuse to fear anybody. And I'm trying to run through everyone's face.

[Liz Loza]

I love the attitude, especially love it as we are approaching the season. This is fantastic. We. You do the fantasy thing. And I have to ask you as well, like, have any players, like teammates asked you for fantasy advice when you're on the field?

[David Presley]

I'm probably like the most active player that's in fantasy. And so it's a pretty big cliff between probably me and the next kind of group of guys that play. No one's actually asked me for fantasy advice besides if they should draft me or not.

[Liz Loza]

And obviously, given that incredible soliloquy, you always say yes, right?

[David Presley]

I mean, how could I not if I say no don't draft me. I should probably retire. You know, that's it. That's, you know, that's it.

[Liz Loza]

So then to that point, what is the fantasy advice that you would give to the people who are drafting you this season?

[David Presley]

Yeah, I think this is important. Yes, my role has changed over the years, right. Going from scoring 20 touchdowns. Now I'm in, I'm a double headed backfield with a running quarterback as well. So, yeah, my, my stock draft has definitely felt falling a little bit because of the change of my role. However, what hasn't changed is the efficiency. That is the name of my game. That's why I'm still playing in year nine, because I'm efficient, I'm in the right spot, the right time. I'm trusted. Like, I take care of the ball. Like I'm scoring touchdowns. Like, yeah, it might not be, you know, the volume that I had before. However, you know, if you're able to get me as a late pick, boom. That's an opportunity to have someone that's going to be reliable get you 10, 12, 15 points a game here.

[Liz Loza]

All right, last thing. As we head into 2025, what is your own personal fantasy? Hot take.

[David Presley]

Oh, hot take that. Christian McCaffrey should be a top five pick.

[Liz Loza]

You're not worried about the durability issues that lingered last year for him?

[David Presley]

When it comes to fantasy football, if you want to win, you need guys that can top the charts. And when we're Talking about Christian McCaffrey, yes, he has had injuries. Absolutely. I know, I know. And it's, it's definitely something that, you know is a concern. However, this is something that is a league by league. Every year is a clean slate. All right, we're going into a new clean slate. And if you're wanting to win, you need the guys that are popping off because those are league winners. You have to have league winners. You can't have guys that you know are on your first few picks that aren't going to be able to kind of have that potential to pop. Obviously you can find some sleepers or some guys that maybe pop and that's kind of rolling the dice, getting lucky. However, if there's guys that are kind of set up in a situation where they can pop, those guys you got to take advantage of. And I think Chris McCaffrey for that reason is a top five pick.

[Liz Loza]

We always say on this show that burnt takes are boring. I love that and I also love the positional respect. Austin, that's awesome of you.

[David Presley]

I mean, don't Call me biased, but I'm kind of biased.

[Liz Loza]

You're allowed to be. You're allowed to be. You want to play a little game now?

[David Presley]

Let's play what you got.

[Liz Loza]

Okay. This game is called Fact or Feeling. I'm going to read a statement and then you are going to tell me whether that is a fact or a feeling. Answer with immediately what comes into your head. But you can, you know, explain if you feel like it. Ready?

[David Presley]

Factor.

[Liz Loza]

Feeling. Number one. Fantasy is just a game.

[David Presley]

Fact. It's just a game.

[Liz Loza]

No one looks bad playing air guitar.

[David Presley]

Ooh, feeling, feeling. I've seen some bad air guitars. I myself have had some ones early in the day and I was like, okay, I gotta. I gotta fix that one. So the air guitar has had a progression and we're finally dialed in and making it look good.

[Liz Loza]

Nothing Else Matters by Metallica is an overrated song.

[David Presley]

Feeling so close no matter how far.

[Liz Loza]

Oh, my God, Austin, this song is six minutes long.

[David Presley]

Yeah. You see the background? I got the drums and the guitar back there. No, I know.

[Liz Loza]

That's why I had to ask. All right. You should always draft a running back in one of your first two rounds.

[David Presley]

Ooh, feeling, feeling really, it depends where you're at. If you're late, I could see you getting receivers. If you're early, I would say yes. Get one premiere guys.

[Liz Loza]

Terry McLaurin will beat his 2024 stats and finish as a top five fantasy wide receiver in 2025.

[David Presley]

We got to get him paid first. And if that happens, then facts because again, getting him paid. All new energy coming in. Prove it year as well. Of like, yes. This is why you paid me. Jaden coming in at number two. He's going to take off. Their whole offense is going to be out there. Ball and hopefully all the top. Top.

[Liz Loza]

All right, last one here. Players always post a career campaign when their jersey number matches their age. Factor. Feeling.

[David Presley]

Oh, I'm going to say fact, because that is my year right here. The year of the three zero, the three zero, the 30. It's time to come alive in my 19 year. So this is the year. Let's go. That's one yet.

[Liz Loza]

I love that. What a great way to end our visit. Don't be a stranger. Good luck this season. Thank you so much for joining us. Before you leave, can you please tell everybody about what you're working on, particularly charitydraft.com?

[David Presley]

Yeah, absolutely. We all love fantasy football and this is just a better way, in my opinion, to play because you get to play for some exclusive prizes. Game jersey, these game tickets, event tickets, game worn stuff from the players. And so at Charity Draft basically we take these items from players and then put them in different tournaments that are up for grabs so you can enter in like the Brian Dawkins, the Marcus Mariota, the Geno Smith mine and play for some of our game gear, things like that and then all of those funds go to the charity of our choice.

[Liz Loza]

Fantasy for good is always the best kind of fantasy. Austin, thank you for being such a great friend, such a great competitor. Follow Austin on Social at Austin Eckler and be sure to check out charitydraft.com and also give your boy some love this season in Fantasy. Maybe rostering him.

[David Presley]

Hey you, you won't be disappointed, I'll tell you that. As long as I'm on the field, I'm going to be efficient.

[Liz Loza]

Thanks Austin.

[David Presley]

Thanks. Gatorade is the number one proven electrolyte blend designed to hydrate better than water.

[Austin Ekeler]

So you can lose more sweat and raise your game.

[David Presley]

Gatorade is it in you? Ryan Reynolds here from Mint Mobile. With the price of just about everything going up, we thought we'd bring our prices down. So to help us we brought in a reverse auctioneer which is apparently a.

[Austin Ekeler]

Thing Mint Mobile Unlimited Premium wireless everybody.

[David Presley]

Get 3030 better get 30 everybody get.

[Austin Ekeler]

202020 better get 2020 every get 15151515 just 15 bucks month so give it.

[David Presley]

A [e-mail] Switch upfront payment of 45.

[Unknown]

For three month plan equivalent to 15 per month required new customer offer for first three months only. Speed slow after 35 gigabytes of networks busy taxes and fees extra. See mintmobile.com.

[Liz Loza]

Now we're going to talk about a guy who, yes, is starting the season as a backup. But you know what, I'll just play the drop daddy. I love him. Jordan Mason has spent most of his career being overshadowed. It happened at Georgia Tech with Jameer Gibbs. It happened in San Francisco with Christian McCaffrey, and now he is slated to work behind Aaron Jones in Minnesota. But when given a shot, Mason has risen to the occasion. He was the RB5 in yards per carry last year with a YPC of 5.2. He was also a top five fantasy producer at the position in three of his first four games as the 49ers starter. Do we not think that a 30 year old Aaron Jones, who by the way is coming off of a 306 total touch season might be a little bit gassed or I don't know, might need to be spelled on occasion particularly in the red area of the field, which happens to be where Mason shines. Mason was, after all, the RB22 in red zone touches last year. I fully expect Mason to be the favorite in short yardage and goal line situations. Obviously, if Jones goes down well, then yes, Mason's stock will soar. But given Mason's skill set, given the offensive line that he's working behind and the offense that he is a part of, Mason offers managers weekly upside and in the 14th round of most fantasy drafts. So yeah, sure he's a backup right now, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't add them to your roster. And on that note, it's time for Last Call. Today we learned that value as it relates to volume cannot be overlooked, that Austin Eckler isn't afraid of anything, and that change is ever present. Remember, every season brings a fresh start, so have some fun with it. Definitely use the lessons you learned from then to inform your now, but don't cling to what was or you might miss out on what could be. Big thanks to Austin Eckler for joining the show and as always, to producer Dave Presley for being my sounding board. Be sure to check out my Red Flags article on the dot com. Oh, and don't forget, Fantasy Focus is back five days a week beginning Monday, July 28th. Until next time, may your facts Thursday be solid, your feelings be right, and your boss be someone else's problem.