Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary
Episode: Early 2018 Sleepers, Hype Train
Release Date: June 7, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Introduction
In this episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, the expert trio—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright—dive deep into the early sleeper picks for the 2018 fantasy football season and scrutinize the current hype surrounding various players. The hosts provide insightful analysis, strong opinions, and practical advice to help fantasy managers gain an edge in their leagues.
Breaking Down the Hype Train
The conversation kicks off with the hosts addressing recent news and speculative chatter in the fantasy football realm. They discuss the credibility of certain sources and the impact of coaching decisions on player performances.
Andy Holloway highlights a recent statement by the Lions' running backs coach about Kerryon Johnson potentially being a three-down back:
"David Walker believes second-round running back Kerryon Johnson can be a three-down player."
[06:21]
Mike Wright debates the significance of this belief:
"Whenever you have someone that is in that room... I do believe that it matters."
[06:21]
Jason Moore concurs, emphasizing the shift in the Lions' team dynamics and his unwavering support for Johnson:
"My love for Kerryon Johnson is it knows no bounds."
[07:18]
Player Spotlights and Analysis
The hosts delve into individual player analyses, assessing their potential impact on fantasy rosters.
DEZ Bryant's Future
A significant portion of the discussion centers around DEZ Bryant's uncertain status and potential signing with the Packers. The conversation explores whether Bryant will find a suitable team and the implications for fantasy managers.
Mike Wright offers a realistic outlook on Bryant's prospects:
"DEZ Bryant will receive another opportunity. He's not gonna be able to pick wherever he wants."
[09:02]
Jason Moore expresses skepticism about Bryant's patience and willingness to settle for shorter deals:
"I do think that DEZ Bryant will receive another opportunity."
[09:02]
Corey Grant and the Jaguars' Offensive Strategy
The Jaguars' offensive coordinator, Nathaniel Hackett, suggests increasing Corey Grant's role, prompting the hosts to evaluate Grant's fantasy value.
Andy Holloway questions the offensive decisions impacting Grant's usage:
"From a fantasy perspective, I don't really see Corey Grant having a future."
[11:08]
Mike Wright agrees, noting Grant's limited fantasy appeal despite his explosive play style:
"I don't either because I believe strongly that he is just a..."
[11:08]
Sterling Shepard and the Giants' Wide Receiver Corps
Sterling Shepard's evolving role in the Giants' offense is another focal point. The hosts debate his position and potential competition with Evan Ingram for targets.
Jason Moore praises Shepard's versatility:
"Sterling Shepard can play anywhere on the field... it's about speed."
[12:14]
Mike Wright emphasizes the strategic placement of Ingram in the slot to maximize mismatches:
"They're going to create a lot of mismatches."
[12:48]
Early Sleepers: Top Picks for 2018
The heart of the episode centers on identifying early sleeper picks that could provide significant value in fantasy drafts.
1. Mike Williams (WR, Chargers)
Andy Holloway touts Mike Williams as an undervalued asset poised to make a significant impact:
"When you hear that name, you need to think upside sleeper."
[26:11]
Williams is expected to fill the number two receiver role following Hunter Henry's departure, offering explosive play potential in a strengthened Chargers offense.
2. Rashard Matthews (WR, Titans)
Jason Moore highlights Rashard Matthews as a cost-effective sleeper with high upside:
"He is a guy that I believe is a very good wide receiver... he was on pace for 1,000 yards and five touchdowns."
[29:47]
Matthews' consistent performance before his injury and his role in an improved Titans offense make him a valuable late-round pick.
3. Corey Clement (RB, Eagles)
Andy Holloway presents Corey Clement as a reliable ground-based option with red zone potential:
"Corey Clement says hey, he spent his off-season working on lower body extremity exercises... he has the potential to be the number one back."
[36:53]
Clement's dedication to improving his running capabilities and increased trust from the coaching staff position him as a promising sleeper.
4. Alan Hearns (WR, Cowboys)
Jason Moore discusses Alan Hearns' transition to the Cowboys and his expected role as the primary receiver:
"Alan Hearns will be the number one receiver for the Dallas Cowboys... he's going in the double-digit round."
[43:37]
Hearns' reliability and Dak Prescott's confidence in him make Hearns a standout sleeper for fantasy managers.
5. Paul Richardson (WR, Washington)
Mike Wright identifies Paul Richardson as a high-potential receiver with a strong skill set:
"He runs a 4.4 and 4.0 and I believe that Tyreek is like a 4.3, 4.0, he could be faster on the field."
[34:11]
Richardson's big-play ability and opportunity within Washington's evolving offense make him a valuable addition to sleeper lists.
6. Dede Westbrook (WR, Jaguars)
Mike Wright emphasizes Dede Westbrook's target volume and favorable schedule:
"He was on a target pace of 117. That is a delightful number."
[46:32]
Westbrook's secure role and the Jaguars' easy early schedule position him as a reliable sleeper pick.
Key Takeaways and Conclusions
The Fantasy Footballers hosts provide a comprehensive overview of potential sleepers and hype-train candidates for the 2018 season. They emphasize the importance of identifying undervalued players who can outperform their draft positions, offering significant benefits to fantasy teams.
Andy Holloway summarizes the essence of the episode:
"Corey Clement says hey, he spent his off-season working on lower body extremity exercises... seems like they trust Corey Clement in the red zone."
[37:00]
The hosts encourage listeners to leverage their insights and the Ultimate Draft Kit for a competitive advantage in their fantasy leagues.
Notable Quotes
-
Mike Wright:
"Are we shoveling coal into that steam engine or not? Or are we hitting the bus?"
[01:16] -
Jason Moore:
"Sleepers are great sleepers. You nail it, it can make your fantasy season."
[26:11] -
Andy Holloway:
"I'm showing expanded cheat sheets... plus our brand new market share report."
[20:14] -
Jason Moore:
"Alan Hearns cannot be a bad wide receiver. You can't be a bad wide receiver and get 1,0-10 with Blake Bortles as your quarterback."
[43:25]
Final Thoughts
This episode provides invaluable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts looking to gain early advantages through informed sleeper picks and cautious analysis of current hype. By dissecting player potentials and team dynamics, the Fantasy Footballers equip listeners with the knowledge needed to make strategic decisions ahead of the season kickoff.
For more detailed analysis and access to the Ultimate Draft Kit, visit ultimatedraftkit.com.