Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary Episode: Busts & Values + Monty News, Butt Thorns - Released August 27, 2020

1. Introduction

The episode kicks off with the hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright, diving directly into the main topics without lengthy intros. The focus is primarily on identifying potential busts and value picks for the upcoming fantasy football season, along with recent player news and updates.

2. News and Updates

a. David Montgomery's Injury Report

David Montgomery's injury status is a significant topic. Initially reported as a season-ending injury due to a non-contact drill mishap, it was later clarified that Montgomery sustained a groin injury, not a knee injury. This adjustment means he is expected to miss two to four weeks instead of the entire season.

Mike Wright [06:08]: "Well, right now it's being reported two to four weeks."

b. Joe Mixon's Contract Situation

Joe Mixon's absence from practice raised concerns, speculated to be related to contract negotiations. Despite the uncertainty, the hosts discuss the possibility of Mixon returning soon and whether he might hold out for a better contract.

Jason Moore [12:10]: "You can't really make any distinct call on whether he has migraines, whether he is, you know, doing this as, you know, contract negotiation."

c. Carlos Hyde's Role in Seattle

Seattle Seahawks' Carlos Hyde is highlighted as a "big factor" in the team's backfield alongside Chris Carson. The discussion revolves around Hyde taking on more responsibilities, potentially impacting Carson's fantasy value.

Jason Moore [14:03]: "This to me is more of an indictment of Rashad Penny is. Is not ready to go, and we don't know when he's going to be ready to go."

d. Jared Goff as a Quarterback Value

Jared Goff is presented as a value pick in the quarterback position. Despite his previous season's inconsistencies, his potential to revert to form could place him among the top QBs if he regains his touchdown rate.

Jason Moore [34:04]: "Jared Goff, the quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, he is still there. He is a value."

3. Busts Discussion

a. Le'Veon Bell

Le'Veon Bell is identified as a potential bust due to his uncertain role in the Jets' backfield. Despite his talent, his performance last season and the team's dynamics suggest he may not live up to his draft position.

Andy Holloway [23:35]: "My bust candidate for 2020 is Le'Veon Bell."

b. Juju Smith-Schuster

Juju Smith-Schuster is scrutinized for his declining performance and potential lack of fantasy production. Despite his talent, injuries and inconsistent usage by the Steelers make him a high-risk pick.

Jason Moore [30:28]: "If you are drafting him as the wide receiver five, I don't think you're going to get the level of consistency that you want."

c. DeAndre Hopkins

DeAndre Hopkins is controversially labeled as a potential bust. The shift to an Air Raid offense in Arizona has diluted his target share, making his high draft position questionable.

Jason Moore [31:01]: "DeAndre Hopkins being drafted as the fifth overall wide receiver off the board. That's the problem for Hopkins."

4. Values Discussion

a. Naim Hopkins

Naim Hotchkiss is highlighted as a strong value pick, especially in late-round drafts. His role in the Colts' offense and efficiency as a pass-blocker make him a reliable option for fantasy managers.

Mike Wright [43:24]: "He's going to have just a dynamic weapon in the backfield. And Naim Hines throughout the season high volume situation."

b. Michael Gallup

Michael Gallup is considered a "gentle value" due to his consistent performance and potential for increased targets with the addition of CeeDee Lamb. His availability in drafts makes him an attractive option for filling wide receiver slots.

Andy Holloway [35:25]: "Michael Gallup had more fantasy points per game last year."

Mike Wright [46:05]: "He's somebody I'm going to be trying to pick up."

c. Jared Goff

Reiterating his value, Jared Goff is praised for his potential to stabilize at a top quarterback position if he can reclaim his touchdown efficiency. His association with talented receivers like CeeDee Lamb enhances his fantasy appeal.

Jason Moore [54:10]: "Jared Goff is being completely overlooked because he burned me last year. He burned you."

5. Strategic Insights and Drafting Tips

• Risk Management: The hosts emphasize the importance of evaluating player roles and team dynamics to mitigate the risk of drafting potential busts.

  Andy Holloway [10:30]: "Are you taking David Montgomery if you drafted today over Tariq Cohen?"

• Value over Popularity: Emphasizing the need to look beyond popular picks, the hosts advocate for selecting players who might be undervalued due to recent performance dips or injury concerns.

  Mike Wright [43:36]: "He's a really safe late guy that you can just watch the screen and get to go point."

• Position Scarcity: Highlighting the scarcity in certain positions, such as tight ends and running backs, the hosts suggest prioritizing value picks that offer high upside without the associated risk.

  Jason Moore [35:28]: "I am always shocked at where juju is going. I have no other explanation for it."

6. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with final thoughts on the discussed busts and values, reinforcing the importance of strategic drafting and staying updated with player news. The hosts encourage listeners to leverage their insights to make informed decisions and gain a competitive edge in their fantasy leagues.

Notable Quotes

• Mike Wright [06:08]: "He is not my value pick today. But when you have a player that has a high probability of 275 plus touches in an offense..."

• Jason Moore [13:35]: "The way I went out on a limb for Joe Mixon, do you think that I will be part of the bridge to a new contract?"

• Andy Holloway [35:28]: "Michael Gallup had more fantasy points per game."

• Jason Moore [54:42]: "Jared Goff is being completely overlooked because he burned me last year. He burned you."

Final Thoughts

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast provides a comprehensive analysis of potential busts and value picks, backed by recent player news and strategic insights. The hosts offer a balanced view, encouraging fantasy managers to weigh risks against potential rewards meticulously. By staying informed and adaptable, listeners can optimize their draft strategies and enhance their chances of winning their leagues.