Fantasy Football Today: Episode Summary – "Eight Players That We've Completely Changed Our Minds On! (FFT Dynasty)"
Release Date: December 18, 2024
Hosts and Guests:
- Heath Cummings – Host
- Matt Donnelly – Special Guest and Fantasy Football Analyst
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Fantasy Football Today: Dynasty, host Heath Cummings is joined by seasoned fantasy football analyst Matt Donnelly. Together, they delve into the dynamic world of fantasy football, focusing on eight players whose rankings and potentials they've significantly re-evaluated over the 2024 season. The discussion aims to provide listeners with deep insights, backed by statistics and personal observations, to enhance their dynasty league strategies.
1. Caleb Williams – Quarterback
Previous Stance: Heath and Matt had varying opinions on Caleb Williams, with Heath considering him a promising QB2.
Current Evaluation: Both analysts express cautious optimism. Matt notes, “We have to play the long game now” (05:43) and emphasizes that despite current inconsistencies, Williams has the potential to develop into a reliable asset in dynasty leagues.
Key Points:
- Performance Fluctuations: Williams has shown variability in performance, leading to concerns about his immediate fantasy value.
- Team Support: The Chicago Bears' acquisitions (e.g., Deandre Swift, Keenan Allen) have set high expectations, but players like Jaden Daniels and Bo Nicks have outperformed Williams, complicating his value assessment.
- Long-Term Potential: Matt advises maintaining Williams with the possibility of supplementing with another quarterback, highlighting the importance of an insurance policy in dynasty formats.
Notable Quote: “We could definitely put other plans into place surround, like get ourselves another quarterback… but it does take up a roster spot.” – Matt Donnelly (05:43)
2. Kenneth Walker vs. Zach Charbonnet – Running Backs
Previous Stance: Kenneth Walker was favored as a top dynasty running back.
Current Evaluation: Matt observes a narrowing gap between Walker and Charbonnet, citing improved efficiency and comparable production from Charbonnet.
Key Points:
- Production Consistency: Walker has averaged 13+ fantasy points in 8 of his 10 games, while Charbonnet has shown increased efficiency with touchdowns on fewer carries.
- Team Dynamics: Seattle Seahawks' usage patterns will determine future value, with Walker currently being the favored choice unless Charbonnet's performance continues to surge.
- Long-Term Outlook: Matt suggests keeping Walker for now but remains open to pivoting based on Seattle’s decisions.
Notable Quote: “Charbonnet has been a little bit more efficient. But you can't knock Walker.” – Matt Donnelly (10:46)
3. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver
Previous Stance: Harrison was ranked outside the top 12.
Current Evaluation: Heath maintains Harrison in the top 12, recognizing his talent but expressing concerns over inconsistency and offensive support.
Key Points:
- Talent vs. Production: Despite impressive talent from Matt, he places Harrison at WR14, acknowledging that other receivers like George Pickens have stronger offensive contexts.
- Health and Opportunity: Injury history and offensive schemes impact Harrison’s reliability in dynasty leagues.
Notable Quote: “I do have Harrison on the outside looking in as my wide receiver 14 for Dynasty.” – Matt Donnelly (12:43)
4. Sam Darnold – Quarterback
Previous Stance: Darnold was considered a mid-tier QB with uncertain future prospects.
Current Evaluation: Matt has upgraded Darnold significantly, noting his resurgence with the Minnesota Vikings and his potential as a long-term starter.
Key Points:
- Performance Surges: Darnold’s unexpected performance spikes have boosted his fantasy value.
- Team Strategy: Although Matt predicts the Vikings may eventually transition to J.J. McCarthy, he believes in giving Darnold more opportunities to prove himself.
- Fantasy Impact: Darnold's improvement offers him as a viable QB option, enhancing his dynasty appeal.
Notable Quote: “I think you have to take it… I want to believe in Sam Darnold.” – Matt Donnelly (25:34)
5. Saquon Barkley – Running Back
Previous Stance: Initially undervalued due to concerns about age and workload.
Current Evaluation: Despite Barkley’s impressive jump from RB20 to RB8, Matt remains cautious about his long-term durability and workload management.
Key Points:
- Workload Concerns: Excessive usage may lead to injuries or decreased performance in subsequent seasons.
- Current Performance: While Barkley has outperformed expectations this year, sustainability remains a critical question.
- Long-Term Strategy: Matt suggests cautious optimism, keeping Barkley in top-tier rankings but recognizing the inherent risks.
Notable Quote: “I still have him as a top… RB5 right now in my dynasty ranking. So I still believe in him because I think he's still that guy.” – Matt Donnelly (27:41)
6. Bo Nix – Quarterback
Previous Stance: Considered a system quarterback with limited potential.
Current Evaluation: Bo Nix has climbed from QB25 to QB15, showcasing significant improvement and potential as a top-tier quarterback in dynasty leagues.
Key Points:
- Performance Improvement: Nix’s consistent fantasy production has elevated his ranking.
- System Fit: Enhanced offensive support has allowed Nix to maximize his potential.
- Future Potential: With continued team support, Nix could further solidify his position as a reliable QB option.
Notable Quote: “He's been tearing things apart here offensively since like week number five.” – Matt Donnelly (22:16)
7. Khalil Shakir – Wide Receiver
Previous Stance: Ranked outside the top 60 WRs.
Current Evaluation: Shakir has moved into the top 40, driven by increased target share and consistent performance within the Buffalo Bills' offense.
Key Points:
- Performance Metrics: High yards after catch and consistent target acquisition have bolstered Shakir's value.
- Team Offense: Playing with a young quarterback like Josh Allen provides Shakir with ample opportunities to excel.
- Growth Potential: Matt anticipates further development and increased volume, making Shakir a valuable dynasty asset.
Notable Quote: “I do have him as wide receiver 31 in dynasty and I look at it, who would you rather?” – Matt Donnelly (29:46)
8. John O. Smith – Tight End
Previous Stance: Considered a borderline TE with limited fantasy upside.
Current Evaluation: Smith has ascended to a top-12 tight end position due to his increased targets and role within the Miami Dolphins' revamped offense under coach Mike McDaniel.
Key Points:
- Offensive Scheme: McDaniel’s emphasis on shorter, more efficient passes has benefited Smith’s target volume and fantasy output.
- Performance Consistency: Smith has achieved career highs in receptions, yards, and touchdowns, solidifying his value.
- Long-Term Outlook: Matt expects Smith to maintain his performance over the next few seasons, making him a reliable TE option in dynasty leagues.
Notable Quote: “I do believe that Jonah Smith right now is making the case that he's a top 12 tight end.” – Matt Donnelly (31:33)
Future Outlook: Players Poised to Change Rankings in 2025
Beyond the eight players discussed, Heath and Matt briefly touch upon potential breakout players for the 2025 season. Noteworthy mentions include Bryce Young and Jalen McMillan, both showing promising signs that could significantly impact their fantasy value in the coming year.
Notable Quote: “I like him. I really like him. I think he, if Breece Young is going to have success beyond this year, Coker's that guy that's going to help him get there.” – Matt Donnelly (35:49)
Conclusion
Heath Cummings and Matt Donnelly provide a comprehensive analysis of eight fantasy football players whose values have shifted over the 2024 season. Their insights, grounded in performance metrics and strategic considerations, offer valuable guidance for dynasty league managers looking to refine their rosters. The episode emphasizes the importance of adaptability and long-term planning in fantasy football, urging managers to stay informed and ready to capitalize on emerging trends and player performances.
Final Notable Quote: “They proved us wrong too. Derek Henry, all these running backs that nobody wanted are having the best years of their careers, so to speak.” – Heath Cummings (29:00)
Where to Find Matt Donnelly's Work
Listeners are encouraged to explore Matt Donnelly's comprehensive fantasy insights at:
- Rotoballer.com
- FantasyPoints.com
Join the Conversation: For further discussions, insights, and updates, follow Matt Donnelly and Heath Cummings on their respective social media platforms and tune into future episodes of Fantasy Football Today: Dynasty.
Note: Timestamps correspond to the transcript sections for accurate reference to notable quotes.