Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary

Episode: Early 2018 Breakouts, Top Handcuffs, Juliaaaaan!!!
Release Date: June 12, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. News and Notes from Around the League

The hosts kick off the episode by addressing significant news impacting fantasy football, most notably the suspension of Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman.

• Julian Edelman's Suspension:
  Edelman received a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing substance policy, which has sparked considerable discussion regarding his value in fantasy leagues.

  "Julian Edelman will drop. He needs to drop extraordinarily far to be a value to me." – Andy Holloway [15:57]

  The trio debates Edelman's potential return, weighing his health, age, and the Patriots' strategies to replace him. The consensus leans towards caution, with Edelman's suspension likely diminishing his immediate fantasy value.

  "If Julian Edelman hits that 8 to 9 range, he'll be 10th. If he's in the 10th, and this is..." – Mike Wright [16:00]

2. Top Running Back Handcuffs

The discussion shifts to the concept of handcuffs in fantasy football, focusing on valuable running back handcuffs beyond the commonly mentioned Tevin Coleman.

• Latavius Murray as a Top Handcuff:
  Murray is highlighted as a premier handcuff due to his proven ability to produce when given a primary role, especially in Dalvin Cook's absence.

  "Latavius Murray is a very valuable handcuff." – Jason Moore [05:23]

  The hosts emphasize the risks associated with drafting handcuffs, citing the unpredictability exemplified by Darren McFadden's retirement, which left Ezekiel Elliott without his intended backup.

  "Projecting a handcuff is a sketchy thing to do and could be a complete and total waste of a draft spot." – Mike Wright [05:34]

• Additional Handcuff Considerations:
  John Kelly for Todd Gurley and Chase Edmonds for David Johnson are also discussed, though with reservations about their long-term reliability.

3. Early Breakout Candidates for 2018

The core of the episode revolves around identifying players poised to exceed expectations in the early part of the 2018 NFL season.

• Juju Smith-Schuster:
  Juju is lauded for his exceptional talent and opportunities within his team, making him a top breakout candidate.

  "Juju Smith Schuster has been at this young of an age; his talent is off the charts." – Andy Holloway [30:08]

  The hosts predict Juju's ceiling to potentially reach Wide Receiver 1 status, emphasizing his chemistry with his quarterback and the offensive strategies that favor his playstyle.

• Cooper Kupp:
  Kupp is recognized for his significant role in the Rams' offense, especially with the addition of Brandon Cooks, ensuring his continued high target volume.

  "Cooper Kupp is extremely intrigued at what Cooper Kupp can do in his second year of already leading his team in targets." – Mike Wright [37:45]

• Joe Mixon:
  Despite a disappointing previous season plagued by limited opportunities and inefficient play early on, Mixon is identified as a potential breakout due to improvements in his team's offensive line and playing time.

  "Joe Mixon disappointed just about everyone last year, but his talent is there." – Andy Holloway [41:09]

• Jerick McKinnon:
  McKinnon's move to the San Francisco 49ers and his new contract position him as a valuable three-down back, offering significant potential in both rushing and receiving.

  "Jerick McKinnon represents one of those guys that... you get a good chance to see who they're going to pick." – Darcy Moore [44:04]

• Sammy Watkins:
  Watkins is presented as an unconventional breakout candidate due to his high fantasy floor, unique skill set, and the Chiefs' evolving offensive dynamics under Andy Reid.

  "Sammy Watkins is the only wide receiver in the NFL to have at least 25 touchdowns and an average of at least 15 yards per catch." – Jason Moore [47:37]

4. Mailbag Q&A

The hosts address listener questions, offering strategic advice on various fantasy football dilemmas.

• Mock Drafting with Fellow League Members:
  A listener from California asks about the disadvantages of mock drafting with frequent league opponents. The hosts recommend strategies to mitigate any potential insights opponents might gain.

  "Just pick a guy you know, don't pick the guy you're gonna pick if you're on the board." – Andy Holloway [51:34]

• Dynasty League Tight End Strategy:
  Danny from Orlando inquires about the handling of Evan Ingram in a Dynasty league. Both Jason Moore and Andy Holloway advocate for retaining Ingram as a high-value tight end due to his youth and receiving potential.

  "I moved Evan Ingram ahead of Zach Ertz in my Dynasty rankings." – Jason Moore [53:45]
  "I have him as my number three tight end overall... Evan Ingram, who's 23." – Andy Holloway [55:16]

• Trade Evaluation Principles:
  Kyle from Canton, Texas, seeks guidance on determining whether to accept or decline trade offers. The hosts emphasize evaluating whether a trade improves the team, encouraging proactive decision-making to avoid missed opportunities.

  "Does it make your team better? Then take it." – Mike Wright [57:06]
  "Look at the players. If you like them better, just pull the trigger." – Andy Holloway [57:13]

• Draft Order Selection:
  Cody from California questions the fairness of a draft order determined by previous season standings, expressing concern over the "rich get richer" scenario. The hosts dismiss the approach as flawed and advise seeking more balanced league settings.

  "Has he never paid attention to how the draft works in every major sport in the history of time?” – Andy Holloway [58:43]

5. Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

The episode concludes with reminders about upcoming live shows and community engagement, encouraging listeners to participate in future events and stay connected through social media platforms.

"Tickets are almost gone for that show ballerslive.com if you are in or around Minneapolis, come see us hang out." – Jason Moore [60:00]

This episode provides valuable insights into managing fantasy teams, particularly in the mid-season phase, by highlighting potential breakout players and offering strategic advice through listener interactions. The hosts blend expert analysis with engaging banter, making it a resourceful episode for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to optimize their rosters.