Fantasy Footballers Podcast: FA Breakdowns + Buy/Sell, Andy Returns!
Episode Release Date: March 24, 2020
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
1. Introduction & Welcome Back
The episode kicks off with Andy Holloway rejoining the Fantasy Footballers team after a hiatus. He warmly welcomes listeners back, emphasizing the vibrant community at jointhefoot.com, where dedicated fans can access exclusive content and an extra episode each week.
Andy Holloway [00:00]:
"It's good to be back... head over to jointhefoot.com."
Mike Wright expresses his excitement about returning to the show, highlighting the comfort and sense of normalcy it brings during unprecedented times.
Mike Wright [01:16]:
"I just need that extra content in these times... this feels like home."
2. Buy/Sell Debate: Derek Henry vs. Nick Chubb
The hosts delve into a critical buy/sell decision for fantasy managers: Should you buy or sell Derek Henry or Nick Chubb based on their potential to exceed 1,400 rushing yards in the 2020 season?
Mike Wright [04:35]:
"Are you buying or selling Henry or Chubb? Not both, but one at least next year, over 1400 yards."
Al Borland [04:35]:
"I'll weigh in here. I am buying Derek Henry repeating over 1400 rushing yards... this hasn't been done as far as a player repeating back-to-back 1400 rushing yards for the last 13 years."
Al argues in favor of Henry, citing his unique physical attributes and consistent performance improvements, despite the Browns' acquisition of right tackle Jack Conklin, which could influence Chubb's performance.
Al Borland [07:11]:
"Derek Henry will finish with more than 1400 rushing yards this season."
Conversely, Andy expresses skepticism about both players reaching the 1,400-yard mark, suggesting that while achieving 1,200 yards might be feasible, the 1,400 threshold sets a high bar.
Andy Holloway [08:44]:
"I have to sell because... hitting that 1400 threshold is a very high bar."
Mike concurs, favoring Henry but ultimately deciding to sell due to the lofty goal posed by the 1,400-yard benchmark.
Mike Wright [08:44]:
"If you told me buy or sell both players over 1200, I'd be buying that. But I will sell both of these players... It's a lofty goal."
3. NFL Draft Update: Las Vegas Cancellation
The hosts discuss the disappointing news that the NFL Draft will no longer take place in Las Vegas as initially planned. While the draft itself proceeds on schedule, the event loses its Vegas flair, affecting the usual fanfare and on-site festivities.
Mike Wright [09:41]:
"The NFL officially reported that it's not going to happen [in Las Vegas]."
Andy Holloway [10:15]:
"Draft is still on time. Which is so good for fantasy... glad the NFL draft is happening as scheduled, just not where it was."
Al Borland highlights the silver lining for fantasy players, as the draft's continuity allows for timely adjustments in rankings and strategies.
Al Borland [10:15]:
"Glad that the NFL draft is happening as scheduled, just not where it was."
Andy speculates on the potential content shifts, suggesting more focus on team war rooms and managerial reactions, enhancing the behind-the-scenes appeal.
Andy Holloway [11:06]:
"I want to see the owner reacting... incredible television."
4. Eagles Acquire Darius Slay: Implications for Fantasy Football
The Philadelphia Eagles' acquisition of cornerback Darius Slay from the Detroit Lions becomes a focal point. The trade involves the Eagles sending a 2020 third and fifth-round draft pick in exchange for Slay, a move aimed at bolstering their secondary.
Jason Moore [12:00]:
"He wants out... it's such a dumb move for the Lions."
Al Borland [12:33]:
"From the Eagles standpoint, this is just such a dumb, dumb [trade]."
Al criticizes the Lions for undervaluing Slay, while Andy acknowledges Slay's capability to shut down top receivers, like Amari Cooper, which can influence fantasy matchups.
Andy Holloway [13:00]:
"Darius Slay... he essentially just shuts him down. That'll be a really fun matchup for fantasy."
Mike Wright points out the fantasy implications, noting that while Slay might limit Cooper's production, it could benefit owners who have Cooper on their rosters.
Mike Wright [14:17]:
"It jacks up your fantasy production if you own Amari Cooper and now he's got Darius Slay in the division twice a year."
5. Free Agency Frenzy: Key Player Moves
The hosts analyze significant free agency moves, discussing their potential impact on fantasy football.
a. Todd Gurley to Atlanta Falcons
Mike Wright [16:08]:
"Todd Gurley released by Rams, signed a one-year, five-million-dollar contract with the Falcons."
Andy expresses optimism about Gurley's new environment under coach Dan Quinn, anticipating increased receiving opportunities that could boost his fantasy value despite previous underutilization.
Andy Holloway [17:10]:
"Atlanta is a pretty decent landing spot... he can still be a running back, one like a lower end too."
Al Borland supports Gurley's move, emphasizing his potential as a reliable fantasy asset if he secures a workhorse role without being heavily used in the passing game.
Al Borland [18:43]:
"Melvin Gordon... you don't think you're going to get much from an owner... he's going to be highly drafted because he's a top fantasy back."
b. Melvin Gordon to Denver Broncos
Mike Wright discusses Melvin Gordon's surprising signing with the Broncos, raising concerns about his fantasy reliability amidst Denver's existing backfield competition.
Mike Wright [24:34]:
"Melvin Gordon's probably going to be overdrafted based on his name, but I still think he will be a relevant fantasy owner thanks to volume."
Al Borland fears that Gordon's presence alongside Philip Lindsay and Royce Freeman could dilute his fantasy value, making it challenging for fantasy owners to rely on him consistently.
Al Borland [26:56]:
"If Royce Freeman is involved, then all three of these guys, it's going to be just a detriment."
c. Eric Ebron to Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers' acquisition of tight end Eric Ebron is analyzed for its fantasy implications. While Ebron brings consistency, questions remain about his long-term impact compared to previous Steelers’ tight ends.
Mike Wright [29:12]:
"Eric Ebron... could be a weekly streaming option in the right matchup."
Al Borland notes that Ebron's signing indicates Pittsburgh's investment in a primary receiving tight end, potentially increasing his fantasy upside.
Al Borland [30:38]:
"Eric Ebron... is going to be their main receiving tight end. So the opportunity will be there."
Andy remains cautious, suggesting Ebron may have sporadic fantasy value but not the consistency desired for high-tier tight ends.
Andy Holloway [33:05]:
"But in terms of a player team fit, I love it... Emmanuel Sanders can still absolutely get done."
6. Listener Mailbag: Answering Your Questions
The hosts address fan-submitted questions, providing personalized advice and insights.
a. James Conner's Future in Dynasty Leagues
A Sacramento listener inquires about James Conner's prospects after a disappointing first season.
Al Borland [39:31]:
"His trade value is not very high. I think you have to hold on and hopefully that he's the guy."
Andy recommends retaining Conner, noting his past productivity when healthy and the Steelers' potential reliance on him as a primary back.
Andy Holloway [41:23]:
"If I have James Conner, I would probably just hang on to him and hope that he stays healthy."
b. Giants Wide Receivers: Golladay vs. A.J. Brown vs. Darius Slayton vs. Golden Tate
James from Florida seeks advice on choosing between the Giants' wide receivers.
Al Borland [43:44]:
"I would take Darius Slayton. He looked great as a rookie and has potential to grow with the new quarterback."
Mike Wright [43:50]:
"My only answer is not Tate because what Jason described about Slayton's potential breakout or Shepard being healthy and consistent."
The consensus leans towards Darius Slayton for his upward trajectory and potential in a developing offense.
c. Doritos Flavor Preference
A lighter question from Michael about the best Doritos flavor sparks a playful debate.
Andy Holloway [46:27]:
"Nacho cheese is my favorite."
Al Borland [46:34]:
"I really like the spicy nacho cheese. It's got a little kick."
The hosts agree that Nacho Cheese and Cool Ranch are top contenders among fans.
d. Trade Proposal: DK Metcalf and Josh Jacobs for Saquon Barkley
A listener suggests a trade involving DK Metcalf and Josh Jacobs for Saquon Barkley, debating the merits of such a swap.
Al Borland [48:11]:
"I would prefer the Saquon side because his longevity and status as a star player are more valuable."
Mike Wright [48:52]:
"I agree. It's Barkley. You have depth with Metcalf and Jacobs, but winning championships requires star players like Barkley."
The hosts favor acquiring Saquon Barkley for his elite production potential over the combination of Metcalf and Jacobs.
e. Retaining Kenny Golladay vs. A.J. Brown
Jed from Syracuse asks whether to keep Kenny Golladay in the 5th or A.J. Brown in the 13th round.
Andy Holloway [49:31]:
"Kenny Golladay broke out... projection to be a top 12 wide receiver."
Mike Wright [50:15]:
"If A.J. Brown out produces Golladay next year, nobody's going to be surprised."
The recommendation leans towards retaining Golladay for his higher floor and potential as a top-tier receiver.
7. Concluding Remarks
The episode wraps up with the hosts encouraging listeners to engage via YouTube and Twitter, securing their community's connection. Mike shares personal anecdotes, enhancing the camaraderie among the hosts.
Mike Wright [51:39]:
"Make sure you check that out on YouTube as well on Twitter @TheFFBallers."
Andy urges everyone to stay safe and extend kindness, while Jason reminds fans to join the community at jointhefoot.com.
Andy Holloway [52:03]:
"Be kind to everyone. Goodbye."
Key Takeaways:
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Buy/Sell Decision: Selling Derek Henry and Nick Chubb based on the challenging 1,400-yard goal, with moderate optimism for lower yardage thresholds.
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NFL Draft Update: Las Vegas event canceled but draft proceeds normally, maintaining important deadlines for fantasy managers.
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Major Free Agency Moves: Todd Gurley to Falcons offers potential resurgence, Melvin Gordon’s move to Broncos introduces uncertainty, and Eric Ebron's acquisition by Steelers adds depth but questions consistency.
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Listener Insights: Retaining James Conner and Kenny Golladay is advisable, while embracing Saquon Barkley over a Metcalf-Jacobs duo could bolster championship aspirations in dynasty leagues.
This comprehensive episode provides valuable analysis and actionable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts, ensuring they remain well-informed and competitive as the season approaches.