Fantasy Football 2018 - Early RB Rankings Part 2

Summary

Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary Episode Title: Fantasy Football 2018 - Early RB Rankings Part 2
Release Date: April 5, 2018

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Introduction

In the second installment of their Early Running Back (RB) Rankings series, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deeper into the fantasy football landscape, focusing on RBs ranked #11 through #20. The trio provides comprehensive analyses, discusses recent news affecting RB performances, and engages with listener questions to offer strategic insights for fantasy managers gearing up for their drafts.

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News and Notes

Bryce Butler Joins the Arizona Cardinals
At [07:20], Andy announces that Bryce Butler, formerly of the Dallas Cowboys, has signed a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals. Recognizing Butler's underutilization in Dallas, the hosts express optimism about his increased opportunities in Arizona. Jason Moore highlights the Cardinals' need for an outside wide receiver due to the departure of key players like John Brown and Jaron Brown, stating:

"There is a lot of opportunity in Arizona." [07:43]

Robbie Anderson’s Legal Update
Robbie Anderson has seen a reduction in felony charges, which is a positive development for both owners and fans. Additionally, Jordan Reed of the Cleveland Browns has undergone a toe procedure, raising concerns about his participation in OTAs ([09:00]). The hosts discuss Reed's potential, with Mike emphasizing his prowess on the field:

"Jordan Reed is a monster. He's an absolute mismatch on the field." [10:12]

Jordan Howard’s Legal Matters
Jordan Howard faces the highest percentage of busted games among RBs, with 38% of his games not meeting expectations last season. The discussion pivots to his consistency and potential in the upcoming season, considering the new coaching strategies and offensive line adjustments ([26:37]).

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Running Back Rankings: #11-20

#11 Devonta Freeman

Andy Holloway opens the rankings with Devonta Freeman, receiving varied positions from the hosts ([12:18]). Last season, Freeman amassed 865 rushing yards and 317 receiving yards but faced challenges with offensive line performance.

"Even saying those disparaging things, I still think that Freeman is a great choice in an RB one." – Mike Wright [14:13]

Prospects for 2018:

• Consistency Concerns: Last year's inconsistency due to offensive line issues.
• Potential Upside: Increased shares of targets could elevate his fantasy value.

#12 Mark Ingram

Mark Ingram is discussed with a consensus around #12, balancing between his reliable production and limited upside compared to stars like Alvin Kamara.

"He's a top 13 running back, and he's trended up." – Jason Moore [19:11]

Prospects for 2018:

• Workload Management: Shares carries with the backfield, potentially capping his ceiling.
• Pass Game Involvement: Consistent receiving adds value.

#13 Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey is a consensus pick at #13, praised for his dual-threat capabilities in both rushing and receiving.

"I think there's potential for a guy who could be a top five running back." – Jason Moore [22:26]

Prospects for 2018:

• Role Expansion: With Jonathan Stewart's departure, McCaffrey's workload is expected to increase.
• Offensive Line Improvements: New coordinator roles may enhance his efficiency.

#14 Jerick McKinnon

Jerick McKinnon moves to #14, leveraging his versatility in the 49ers' dynamic offense.

"Jerick McKinnon feels very safe as of right now heading into the draft." – Mike Wright [24:48]

Prospects for 2018:

• Pass-Catching Prowess: Significant target share in Kyle Shanahan's offense.
• Consistency: Solid performance in a high-powered offensive system.

#15 Jordan Howard

Jordan Howard is positioned at #15, recognized for his strong performance last season but flagged for a high bust rate.

"He is very valuable when he's out there. He's not going to be out there." – Mike Wright [10:43]

Prospects for 2018:

• Role Uncertainty: New coaching strategies under Matt Nagy could redefine his usage.
• Potential as RB2: Offers stability but limited upside as a primary RB.

#16 Joe Mixon

Joe Mixon joins the rankings at #16, with expectations of improvement due to offensive line enhancements.

"I think Mixon will genuinely shine. I think he'll be great this season." – Mike Wright [32:31]

Prospects for 2018:

• Fresh Start: Starting role ensures consistent touches.
• Offensive Line Upgrades: Could lead to increased yardage and scoring opportunities.

#17 Derek Henry

Derek Henry is ranked #17, with discussions surrounding his fluctuating performance last season and new backfield dynamics with Dion Lewis.

"Here's the range of outcomes for Derek Henry." – Mike Wright [34:38]

Prospects for 2018:

• Competitive Backfield: Sharing carries with Dion Lewis adds variability to his workload.
• Explosive Potential: Demonstrated ability for big plays points to high upside.

#18 Carlos Hyde

Carlos Hyde sits at #18, evaluated based on his previous performances and the Browns' ongoing backfield adjustments.

"He is a very talented running back." – Jason Moore [39:10]

Prospects for 2018:

• Opportunity for Breakthrough: New team dynamics may unlock his full potential.
• Health and Role: Consistent usage is pivotal for his fantasy value.

#19 Rex Burkhead

Tied with Carlos Hyde, Rex Burkhead is discussed concerning his role in New England's offense and potential for high usage.

"I love Rex Burkhead." – Jason Moore [42:30]

Prospects for 2018:

• Versatility: Excellent pass-catching abilities complement his rushing skills.
• Offensive Scheme Fit: Dependent on New England’s play-calling and RB utilization.

#20 Alex Collins

Finishing the top 20, Alex Collins is ranked #20, noted for his underdog position in the Ravens' backfield and potential impact.

"He was great." – Jason Moore [46:56]

Prospects for 2018:

• Starter Status: Named the clear starter brings consistent touches.
• Competitive Environment: Faces competition with Kenneth Dixon and potential draft additions.

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Mailbag: Listener Questions and Host Responses

Keeping Thielen vs. Drafting Dalvin Cook
Mark from Atlanta poses a dilemma about retaining Adam Thielen in the 11th round versus drafting Dalvin Cook in the third round, especially with existing stars like Todd Gurley and DeAndre Hopkins on his roster.

"I'm going to take Thielen for essentially free." – Andy Holloway [50:06]

Devonta Adams’ Draft Position
Quincy from Harrisburg asks about Davante Adams' expected draft finish, noting his consistent top-tier performance.

"I put him at seven." – Jason Moore [50:53]

The hosts agree Adams is a lock for the top 10, with Jason positioning him around #7 due to his high touchdown potential.

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Conclusion

The Fantasy Footballers provide a thorough analysis of RBs ranked #11 through #20, balancing past performances with upcoming opportunities and team dynamics. They emphasize the importance of understanding each player's role within their respective offenses, the impact of coaching changes, and the significance of offensive line improvements. Listener engagement through mailbag questions adds a practical dimension to the discussions, offering tailored advice for fantasy managers. As the draft season approaches, these insights equip fantasy owners with the knowledge to make informed decisions and strategically build their teams.

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Note: Timestamps correlate to significant discussion points within the transcript for reference.

Transcript

[Andy Holloway]

Hey, foot clan. Do you want to drape your body with the utter greatness that is your fantasy football team? Do you want to remind your league that humility is not an option? And represent your fantasy football team with the proper way? You do that with a custom fantasy football jersey and you do [e-mail] they have six different color combinations. You can pick your team name, your number, you can make a custom jersey. You can wear it to your draft. You can wear it all year long and rub their face in it. So use the promo code [e-mail] welcome.

[Jason Moore]

To the Fantasy Footballers podcast coming to you from Draft.com Studios with your hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore and Mike Wright.

[Andy Holloway]

Ah, welcome, welcome. One, welcome all. Everyone's welcome. Of course everyone's welcome at the fantasy footballers podcast. We're back once more, the second running backs rankings show. We had a very good episode on Tuesday. So excited to have you back with us. Thursday, April 5, Andy, Mike and Jason, the fantasy footballers podcast. You can find us on Twitter at the ffballers. We're also on YouTube, the website the fantasy footballers.com and our fantasy football community filled with wonderful, Wonderful People is jointhefoot.com Chock full. Chock full.

[Mike Wright]

And speaking of YouTube, Andy, show after the show today.

[Andy Holloway]

There is going to be a show after the show today on YouTube. A little bonus. Bonus delivers over on the YouTube. Not everything is food, Jason.

[Jason Moore]

Every show after the show with the exception of one, maybe two. Oh, the beets were delicious. The beats. And then there might be another story. Jason would not attach that word where.

[Andy Holloway]

The majority of our show after the shows are delicious. Yes, over on YouTube.

[Mike Wright]

Welcome in number one word.

[Andy Holloway]

We'll catch you up. We'll catch you up on the fantasy football news information. We have a good quick question. Let's start it off right now. Quick question. How much do you factor in offensive line when ranking and drafting players? How much do you factor in the offensive line? This comes from. We just released an article on the site. Our editor in chief himself, Kyle, released a forecasting offensive lines and drafting article. It's a great article, great read. Go check it out the fancy footballers.com but how much do you personally factor in the offensive line when ranking and drafting a team?

[Mike Wright]

Well, first I'm, I'm very happy that the Borgogan could escape the upside down long enough to write this article because you really should check it out.

[Andy Holloway]

That is his last name, Kyle Borgogan.

[Mike Wright]

And two, it certainly does factor.

[Andy Holloway]

Was that a Swedish, Is that the Swedish chef?

[Jason Moore]

Yes, this is my attempt.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, it's not bad.

[Jason Moore]

Thanks.

[Mike Wright]

Not bad.

[Andy Holloway]

It's not my accents, but it's decent.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, the article is a lot of the things, really.

[Mike Wright]

But I mean, you got to check. No team situation. Is the team even good? What's the opportunity? And offensive line certainly factors into that because we have seen. We've seen what we thought were good running backs have a terrible offensive line in front of them and all of a sudden they look like they stink. So it has to be a factor of the puzzle.

[Andy Holloway]

So, yeah, to me it's a piece of the piece. You've had situations where like Darren McFadden had a hyper productive year behind an amazing Dallas offensive line.

[Mike Wright]

Right.

[Andy Holloway]

You also had last year, Todd Gurley had massive improvement, Jared Goff, that offense, there was a new head coach, but there was also an improved offensive line. You also have the case of Isaiah Cruell last year where the offensive line in Cleveland, it was being ranked in the top five everywhere under the sun. And that was a case of reading too much into an offensive line and not enough into a team situation. Success, pass, run ratio, all of those aspects. So it's a piece.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, it is a piece. And I think, you know, a lot of times the focus is on the great offensive lines. Dallas last year, the Browns and what.

[Andy Holloway]

Raiders for many years.

[Jason Moore]

Right, exactly. But I think you also need to take a look. You know, last year, maybe not enough weight was given to what happened to the Cincinnati Bengals. And you saw as soon as week one hit and week two and week three and et cetera, that. That their losses of their offensive line made a drastic change to their capabilities as an offense. So you do take a look. But the reality is this, if you just go and look. In fact, this is kind of what Kyle does in his article. But if you go and you look at all the different websites that rank offensive lines, how good are they at pass blocking, at run blocking? They're all over the map. Depending on what metric or how you view, you know, how you score your lines. Some have an offensive line super high and super low. So you have to take everything with a grain of salt. But in general, you can see which teams made big signings, big acquisitions, which teams were great last year, and then you put it all together.

[Andy Holloway]

We mentioned yesterday on the running back rankings show, part one, Leonard Fournette.

[Jason Moore]

Right.

[Andy Holloway]

Obviously a productive year last year, some injury concerns, but also added Andrew Norwell to that offensive line. I'd prefer to look at bigger moves like that. Whitworth, with Los Angeles Last year as opposed to what you're saying, where there is variance between different evaluators of offensive lines, whether it's Pro Football Focus or Football Outsiders or all these different websites that try to scout the offensive line. I like. I like looking at the higher level stuff. They lost Whitworth in Cincinnati.

[Jason Moore]

Exactly.

[Andy Holloway]

They gained Whitworth in Los Angeles. You saw a massive impact.

[Mike Wright]

Fair, fair, fair.

[Andy Holloway]

All right. Just a reminder, the Ultimate Draft Kit available for Presale. Ultimate Draft Kit.com Dominate your 2018 fantasy football draft. Lowest possible price. Check it out. Also, we already talked about the show after the show that'll be on YouTube. Make sure you check out previous episodes of this podcast. Recently we did the the Ranks part one on Tuesday. If you didn't listen to that, we had a free agent. Winners and losers. We had an early mock draft a couple episodes ago. Dynasty, startup, 10 things to remember. And all of January we did the Truth episodes which are great to go.

[Mike Wright]

Back if you have not caught the.

[Andy Holloway]

They're more valuable now than they were then. Yes.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

Because you forget. You forget what was the truth. How consistent. We're players. You start getting the rose colored glasses when you're thinking about what happened last season. You start letting the emotion weigh into it instead of remembering exactly what happened. So I would invite the Foot Clan to check those out.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah. If you listened to them back then instead of now. What a mistake.

[Jason Moore]

News and notes from around the league.

[Andy Holloway]

That reminds me, make sure you subscribe and listen to every episode as it's released.

[Mike Wright]

Yes.

[Andy Holloway]

All right. News and notes. We didn't talk about this yet. Bryce Butler signed by the Cardinals, formerly of the Cowboys. I think kind of the. At least Twitter and evaluators out there, fantasy names. They think he's always been criminally underutilized in Dallas. Two year contract with the Cardinals. I like this because it. There's a lot of opportunity in Arizona.

[Jason Moore]

There is. The Cardinals lost John Brown who was really only able to be there half the time anyways. And as far as.

[Mike Wright]

And Jaron Brown as well.

[Jason Moore]

Correct.

[Andy Holloway]

All Browns are out.

[Jason Moore]

Yes, they. And so you know, the thing is is the question to me is will he be the number one outside wide receiver or will Chad Williams be able to step it up going into his sophomore year and take over that role. But there is a need for that. Larry Fitzgerald.

[Andy Holloway]

J.J. nelson is clearly has the slot.

[Jason Moore]

And they need someone to step up on the outside.

[Andy Holloway]

So let's go. Heads up there. J.J. nelson or Bryce Butler.

[Mike Wright]

Butler.

[Jason Moore]

Butler.

[Andy Holloway]

I would take Nelson. I'm taking Nelson. As of today. As of today.

[Mike Wright]

And Bryce Butler, if you don't know who he is, we talked about. He was with Dallas, he was a late round pick, but he's very large and he's very.

[Andy Holloway]

Oakland before.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, he was drafted by Oakland. He's a very athletic player. Is this a matter of. He just hasn't really gotten the shot. He should receive a true opportunity with Arizona.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah. Yeah. There was a report the Cardinals had also extended a contract offer to Jordan Matthews. And I. I'm using all my resources to make this not happen.

[Mike Wright]

And I think it would be a strange signing for the Cardinals with Larry already. I like Jordan Matthews, but I think over his career we have enough proof that Jordan Matthews is a slot wide receiver. There's no shame in that. But the Arizona Cardinals have a Hall of Fame level.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, but when you got Sam Bradford, you need everyone running from the slot for those short, high, accurate pass.

[Andy Holloway]

The only argument I've heard for Jordan Matthews is his best years where with Sam.

[Mike Wright]

Brad. That's where I was going.

[Andy Holloway]

There you go. I'm way ahead of you, Mike. Way ahead of you. All right. Robbie Anderson's. A number of felony charges have been dropped.

[Mike Wright]

Not all.

[Andy Holloway]

No. He was originally charged with a pile. He's left with what, a stack.

[Mike Wright]

Yes.

[Andy Holloway]

So this is good for Robbie Anderson. Owners, fans. I mean, we all loved what he did on the field. Obviously not off the field, but you want the least possible amount of suspension time, if you're thinking fantasy wise. And then Jay Gruden came out, talked about the fact Jordan Reed had a procedure done on his toes, which. What. That goes with his head and shoulders and knees. This is to finish that off.

[Mike Wright]

Yes, true.

[Andy Holloway]

But that's why he's not expected to participate in OTAs. I believe he's trying not to participate in OTAS now for many, many years.

[Jason Moore]

Very successful.

[Andy Holloway]

It's hard not to talk about. I mean, we brought him up earlier. Hard not to talk about him with so much cynicism towards his ability to be on the field when we all know that. Like I think we asked this question on the show if Jordan Reed was healthy. And I told you right now you get 16 games. Mike, I think you said he'd be top three, guaranteed.

[Mike Wright]

Jordan Reed is a monster. He's an absolute mismatch on the field, but that's on the field.

[Jason Moore]

I would say top four. You got three solid tight ends to compete with now with. With Ertz and Kelsey and Gronk. But yes, the point stands. He is very valuable when he's out there. He's not going to be out there.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, yeah, maybe this is the year. Jordan Reed plays 16. Sam Bradford plays 16.

[Jason Moore]

Ooh.

[Andy Holloway]

What do you think?

[Mike Wright]

I like the sound of it.

[Andy Holloway]

Is that a prop bet in Vegas for those two?

[Mike Wright]

You put them together, you can prop bet anything. So I'm.

[Andy Holloway]

So what would the odds of just Sam Bradford playing 16 BE? Ooh, man, is that 10 to 20 to 1?

[Mike Wright]

Oh, I was gonna go even higher. I was gonna say 25 to 1.

[Andy Holloway]

25 to 1 and then Jordan Reed playing 16. That's got to be what, 40 to 1?

[Jason Moore]

40,000.

[Mike Wright]

Are we doing a parlay here while.

[Andy Holloway]

We'Re turning it into one? What's this gonna pay out on if.

[Mike Wright]

It'S both of them have to play all 16 games?

[Jason Moore]

I mean, you put, you bet $1, you're a millionaire.

[Mike Wright]

You can probably get like 200 to 1 odds.

[Andy Holloway]

All right, any other, any other news you guys wanted to comment on before we moving on down the line?

[Mike Wright]

Nope.

[Jason Moore]

Running backs.

[Andy Holloway]

All right, as we said Tuesday, we did the top 10 running backs. Lev Bell was number one, Todd Gurley two, David Johnson three. Then it went Zeke, Kareem Hunt, Melvin Gordon, Leonard Fournette Alvin Kamara, Dalvin cook and Lashawn McCoy rounding out the top 10. Those are our cons. I'm sorry, our consensus rankings. And today we're getting through what, 11 through 20. Brooks, is that how far you think we're going to go?

[Mike Wright]

Yes, sir.

[Andy Holloway]

Okay, number 11, Devonta Freeman. Mike, you're currently the highest on Devonta Freeman. You have him at 9. Jason 10. I have him at 12. Last year he played 14 games, just under 200 carries, 865 yards and seven touchdowns. Only caught 36 passes last year for 317 yards and a touchdown on 46 touchdown. Ended the year as the 13th ranked fantasy running back. We're talking about half point PPR scoring and it's an interesting run for Devonta Freeman. In 2015, he was the number one back. 2016, he was the number six back. Last year he ended up at number 13.

[Jason Moore]

If these trends continue.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, you don't like that trend, but you do like three consecutive years at RB13 or better, which only other one other running back has done. Do you guys know the name?

[Jason Moore]

Oh, Mark Ingram.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, Mark Ingram has done that as well.

[Jason Moore]

And they are back to back here in our rankings where we've got to the point.

[Andy Holloway]

Spoiler alert.

[Jason Moore]

When you get to the end of the of the running back. That was the last show.

[Mike Wright]

How is that Spoiler.

[Andy Holloway]

No, he said Ingram and Freeman are back to back. Ingram's next.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, we're about to get do you.

[Andy Holloway]

Listen to the show, Mike?

[Jason Moore]

Do you even listen?

[Mike Wright]

I thought he was 10. Honestly.

[Jason Moore]

He should be. No, the reality is at the end of the running back ones we have a pair of unsexy picks. There's no huge glorious upside. These are veterans who've gotten it done the last three years.

[Andy Holloway]

Even though you don't think there's glorious upside for Devonta Freeman.

[Jason Moore]

No, I like both of these guys. I'm saying to the world right now I don't think anyone is excited to have either one of these guys as their primary RB one. I think you're safe with them there. I would be happy to have an Antonio Brown and a Devonta Freeman as my first two picks. I got no problem with that.

[Andy Holloway]

Mike, you have him the highest at 9. What do you like about Freeman heading into 2018?

[Mike Wright]

Just the history of Devonta Freeman is a solid running back. Good buck they're the Falcons are a tremendous offense. The concerns though, just to side with Jason, you saw the target drop from Kyle Shanahan to Steve Sarkeesian's offense from 65 to 47. Now granted he did miss a handful of games but we saw his his carries inside the 10 drop from 27 to 19. There just there was so many times I would be watching a Falcons game them on the one and give it to give it to Freeman. We have years of experience seeing that Devonte Freeman is a fantastic goal linebacker. Just score a touchdown and then Sarkeesian would throw some wild goose chase play in there where it's a play action and we try and throw it to Austin Hooper or something. So it's. It might be frustrating but overall even saying those disparaging things, I still think that Freeman is a great choice in an RB one. All right.

[Andy Holloway]

Mark Ingram is 12. Jason, do you want to tack on a little extra sauce?

[Jason Moore]

I guess the reality is he's a very talented player but his role is is a little scary given the Sarks change. Last year on a 16 game pace he would have had 225 carries which you kind of want more than that for your 25 is it's not a.

[Mike Wright]

Bad as long as the receptions are there.

[Jason Moore]

Right. But that's the issue.

[Andy Holloway]

So I mean yeah Kamara had that's where I 20.

[Jason Moore]

That's where I say I feel like the upside, the sexiness isn't quite there for Freeman. He's safe but he's not. He's not going to finish next year as the running back one. It's just not going to happen.

[Andy Holloway]

Well, unless touchdowns. He only had eight touchdowns total last year through the air and on the ground. If you got back to double digit reigns with with Freeman, same carries put him in the about 40 receptions. You could be, you could be in that top five.

[Mike Wright]

I would think he would need a little bit more than 40 receptions. It's volume because you go back to two years ago when he was the one that was Tevin Coleman's rookie year and Tevin Coleman was was injured for the majority of the season.

[Andy Holloway]

So Freeman and Ingram both share a similar situation in the fact that they are members of a very talented backfield. Ingram is our number 12 and I got him at 11. Jason 12, Mike 13. So we all have him in the same range pretty much. Last year was RB6. He was kind of Jason's guy last year heading into the season. Even though we had Ingram and Kamara and Peterson and some unknowns, we just brought it up. Only Ingram and Freeman have been RB13 or better in the last three seasons. And yet because of the Camara hype, there's still some hesitancy about Mark Ingram. Are we fools, are we just fools to not buy in as a top six guy? Why are we willing to put, you know, I have Kamara up at 5. Why, why do we hesitate with Ingram? He still had 58 receptions.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

By the way, was 22 more than Freeman. 230 carries, which is a ton more than Freeman and had a monstrous year. I mean fifth most yards rushed in the league with over 1100.

[Mike Wright]

I will say this, you're right, 10th most touches at the running back position. But you saw the final seven games. The rushing attempts went down for Mark Ingram. He was averaging 12 attempts a game. However, he was also averaging four receptions a game during those final seven. Decrease in rushing, increase in receiving. And we know that receptions are more valuable than rushing attempts. So that kind of balanced things out. But the 12 rushing touchdowns, the split changing more to possibly in Camara's favor, at least more even. So that that's the only reason why I'm not treating Mark Ingram like a top six running back. Even though he can easily finish.

[Andy Holloway]

What's his ceiling?

[Jason Moore]

I think his ceiling is about there. It's about five, six. Five or six. He doesn't have enough volume to be the workhorse and he's not the best back in the backfield. That's the issue.

[Andy Holloway]

That's why the best back in the backfield.

[Jason Moore]

Correct he's not the best running back of that.

[Andy Holloway]

I got it.

[Jason Moore]

Alvin Camara is a better, more electric running back. Everybody knows that. When you watch, you just see he does a little bit more. Now that's not to disparage Ingram in his own right. Who was great, you know, this is a running back. Who in this system for Sean Payton the last three years has been a top 13 back and he's trended up. I don't understand why he's so year after year disrespected when it comes to the draft season. I will have plenty of Mark Ingram shares, but his upside is capped because he's not going to be the Universal, you know, 70% market share workhorse running back the way that you've got in a Todd Gurley. So it kind of takes him away from that. But he's going to get goal line. He's involved in the passing game, he's solid on the ground.

[Mike Wright]

The goal line is what I was going to bring up is that towards the end of the year we started seeing Camara take goal line carries away. So if, if that role is not locked in 100% of the time, they're at the one you know that Ingram's going to go in.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, but Ingram, Ingram has never had the locked in goal line role the last three years. They always pull him out. You know, half the time, you know, it's, it's just a crapshoot whether or not they're going to give Mark Ingram the ball there, but he's still good enough. That's where I say he's like, I would be shocked if he's Not a top 15 running back next year.

[Mike Wright]

Sure.

[Jason Moore]

But, but I don't think he's got a chance to be in the top five. So he's kind of locked and loaded. But for where you're getting him in the draft, I think you're going to end up with a happy value. I like Mark Ingram. You know who else I like? I like Pristine Auction. Pristine Auction is a great sponsor of the show and more importantly, tell me more. They are a great resource for you in your life to amaze people. You want to amaze people with amazing gifts. You go to Pristine Auction and get signed memorabilia from celebrities, sports stars, everything around the studio. That's how we have. You want to impress people who come into your living room and go, how do you have 10 signed autographed jerseys? Are you a millionaire? Nope. You'll never tell them the same.

[Mike Wright]

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[Jason Moore]

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[Andy Holloway]

All right, Christian McCaffrey coming in at number 13. We all have him at 14 on our individual rankings, 13 on our consensus rankings. Last year we saw him kind of evolve into his role, but 80 receptions is the headline there. If you look at what Christian McCaffrey and Alvin Camara did last year, the volume is almost identical. Okay, the production was much greater for Alvin Kamara in terms of touchdowns, in terms of efficiency. But when you look at the total carries, I mean, receptions, they're basically the same.

[Mike Wright]

They are.

[Andy Holloway]

And so I've been a big McCaffrey fan this offseason. They obviously lost Jonathan Stewart in Carolina. If you don't know that. Jonathan Stewart's been kind of their running back for many years. McCaffrey came onto the scene last year, first round pick, and I think he gained the trust of the offensive coordinator there of Cam Newton and ended up the RB11. And so again, it shows you. You have two running backs that finished in that top 12 with Kamara and McCaffrey pretty much on the back of receiving yards and receiving or on receptions. So what do we think about Christian McCaffrey heading into this year? Is there any of us that see potential regression as opposed to kind of a guaranteed workload?

[Jason Moore]

I really don't see much potential regression here because he's got the kind of role more on lockdown with Jonathan Stewart out of the way. The one worry I have, we talked about this to open the show, offensive lines, you know, when you get a great piece, someone else is losing a great piece. You brought it up earlier, Andrew Norwell, he's gone now from the Panthers. So their offensive line might be a little bit worse for run blocking, but you're talking about a guy who is so secure because of the receiving game. I think Norv Turner coming in as a new offensive coordinator is going to be a benefit to him. And you have another year of experience with Cam Newton. Keep in mind, you know, when I was talking kind of down about McCaffrey last off season, as far as being a Panther, a lot of that was because Cam had not spent a whole lot of time throwing to the Running back. They've got an entire season now, another off season under their belt to figure out that chemistry. I think you're going to see a little bit more efficiency in the passing game for Christian McCaffrey, and that'll make up for any deficiencies in the offensive line. I don't see regression and I think potential outcome here. You have a potential for a guy who could be a top five running back.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, Yeah. I think you need to see, much like my argument for my case for Alvin Camara to have an, you know, an equal valued season, I think you got to see the volume go up for McCaffrey to do that. But like you said, the opportunities there last year targeted 7.1 times per game. Tied with Lev Bell for the highest at the running back position. He can catch the ball. I'd like to see more big plays from him. That's the one thing you'd like to see. A few more highlights from Christian McCaffrey. All right. Number 14 on our running back rankings, Jerick McKinnon. Welcome. Welcome to the potential top tier of the running back position. So last year, forced into a role throughout the season with Minnesota, worked out well being that he was a free agent and had the opportunity to showcase, you know, he's just 25 years old. Showcase what he had. And we talked about this a few shows ago. The 49ers, they went out, they identified Jerick McKinnon as the back they wanted to acquire. They let Carlos Hyde leave, and Kyle Shanahan brings in Jerick McKinnon, who last year had almost 1,000 total yards, ended as the RB22, but now gets to what, take the reins in San Francisco.

[Mike Wright]

And I just talked about how a target, how a reception is more valuable than a rushing attempt. Look at me, camara and Christian McCaffrey, where both of those guys are right around the 120 rushing mark. And we know that Kyle Shanahan utilizes his running backs in the passing game. Go back two years or three years ago for Atlanta, 138 targets to the running back position. The next year, Freeman and Coleman combined for 105 targets. Last year, the 49ers had the third highest target share going to the running back position. Over 27% of targets went to the running back. Carlos Hyde at 88. Matt Burrito had 36. Jerick McKinnon is going to see that, or at least I'm projecting him to see that type of passing volume that we loved for Freeman two years ago, that we, that we got to experience for Carlos Hyde. This past year. So Jerick McKinnon, I think is. He's going to be a hot name this offseason. We'll see how high the hype train leads him up the average draft position. But Jerick McKinnon feels very safe as of right now heading into the draft. Maybe the draft changes that, but I don't expect it to.

[Andy Holloway]

Do you feel like he's very safe against that front seven in Los Angeles?

[Mike Wright]

It's not preferable, however, that's.

[Andy Holloway]

I hear they have to play them 16 times a day.

[Mike Wright]

I was going to say it's. They play them twice. There's no guarantee that they.

[Andy Holloway]

That's what passing game viability does.

[Mike Wright]

Exactly.

[Andy Holloway]

It gives you a higher floor.

[Mike Wright]

You don't have to just run into it every single time. Jerick McKinnon gets to go out in space.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah. Someone should have told Bishop Sankey that he might still be in the NFL. All right, let's talk about Jordan Howard.

[Mike Wright]

Someone should have told Jeff Fisher that.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, Jordan Howard, number 15 on our ranks. Jason and I have him a little lower than Mike. We both have him at 16. Mike, you got him up at 12. So inside that top 12 last year, look, it was going to be hard to meet expectations last year on a team that struggled, but he still had 276 carries for over 1100 yards, nine touchdowns. Couldn't really catch. Couldn't catch the ball. 23 receptions for 125 yards on 32 targets ended up the RB12 solid. And I think the storyline behind Jordan Howard, who through the first two years of his career have put up, you know, he's put up top 12 performances over the course of the season. The issue was the bust percentage last year.

[Mike Wright]

Yes.

[Andy Holloway]

Very high. 38% of games he busted. And then the issue is also tree, Cohen and Nagy and actually having some outside weapons, does that lend itself the way that we normally bend, which is look better offense is better for the running back in general, more opportunities to score. Or do you see that nine touchdown number not really being something he's going to move up on. Despite the optimism in the offense, the.

[Mike Wright]

Touchdowns, those things fluctuate. So, I mean, I would project him for right around that 7 to 9 mark. But why I'm excited for Jordan Howard. He had 299 touches last year. That's a great number. I love it. But you have Matt Nagy coming in. When Matt Nagy took over play calling for the Chiefs, he screwed up his first game. He gave Kareem Hunt nine attempts. After that, the next three games, which were the final three games of the regular season. Kareem Hunt averaged 26 rushing attempts per game. And you said it, Andy. Now they have actual passing weapons in the receiving game in Chicago, which they did not have last year. You have a true alpha number one and Alan Robinson leading away from just completely stacking the box in every single play. As long as the play calling is imaginative, which I believe it will be. So I like Jordan Howard moving forward. Unfortunately, he is not a pass catching running back which caps things out. It leads to something like a 38% bust rate which is by far the highest percentage of busted games for a running back one of last year. But I still love him moving forward into next year.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, I will admit that Jordan Howard is one of the most difficult players that I have. Like getting a grasp on what his role is going to be in Matt Nagy's system. Now Matt Nagy came in, he said some really glowing things about Jordan Howard, which is always promising. But then, you know, you kind of expect that you'd be surprised if he came in and go, well, we're going to have to blow up the running back core. Our only, you know, Pro Bowler from offense, you know, so he had the, you know, the NFL leading rusher last year. And Jordan Howard is the type that obviously can do that. So I go back and forth because he also wants a guy that could catch the ball that is not Jordan Howard. And what Nagy said is that this guy's got a very unique skill set, but it's a good unique and we're going to have to find out how to use him. That phrase is like, okay, I could see it going either way.

[Andy Holloway]

43% of the time Jordan Howard faced eight or more men in the box, 43% of his carries. That leads to the, what, 1.5 yards before contact per carry. Lot of guys in the box, almost nobody that was a full time back faced more defenders in the box on a regular basis. Leonard Fournette actually had more 48% of the time. That would be the Blake Bortles disrespect that Jacksonville faced. But very interesting and yes, very. I think that there's some hesitation with Jordan Howard and maybe he ends up being kind of that ideal RB2 for your team. If you can somehow sneak him right.

[Mike Wright]

I think that's where he will be drafted and I'm, I would be very happy about it.

[Jason Moore]

I would love him as my second running back where he's got the potential to be one of those top 10 running backs this year with an improved offense, less men in the box that he's running against.

[Andy Holloway]

One of the reasons I enjoy the deeper ranking shows is because you start to talk about players with more question marks overall and more range of outcomes. Range of outcomes. Bets that you have to make as a fantasy owner, saying, yes, I believe this about that player. No, I don't believe that. Joe Mixon comes in at number 16. Another player that I think will be. I think he'll be drafted fairly high. Yes, because this is his backfield now. This is his opportunity. And because of the youth and the, and the skill set, you know, he averaged 10.4 yards after the catch. This was up there. So even though he has Gio Bernard, another pass catcher in the backfield in Cincinnati, he performed well when he got the ball out of the backfield. But on the ground last year, nothing really to smile about. 178 carries, 626 yards, four touchdowns, only 30 receptions. But now, now, what do we expect from, from Joe Mixon?

[Jason Moore]

I expect him to be better. I really, really do.

[Andy Holloway]

That's good.

[Jason Moore]

I mean, the offensive line, we talked about it earlier. The Bengals were terrible. They've already made some improvements or some attempted improvements for their offensive line. And when you watched Joe Mixon in college, he was truly special. When I watched Joe Mixon in the NFL, I didn't see that. I mean, there, it was really, really disappointing. He was still okay. He didn't, you know, completely poop your draft stock. I've got him in Dynasty and everyone's trying to trade for him.

[Mike Wright]

What are you talking? He was drafted in like the fourth, third or fourth round last year, and he was RB 34.

[Andy Holloway]

I would say that would be.

[Jason Moore]

I'm talking dynasty. You know, he was somewhere between the third to fifth pick in a Dynasty rookie draft last year, and he hasn't done anything to ruin that. Say he's a bust, but I don't think anybody who drafted him was happy with what he did on the field. But I see the team as a whole getting healthier, the offensive line being improved and now mixing, coming in to day one as the starter versus having to try to find his way middle of the season, not getting training camp in that role. I think Mixon will genuinely shine. I think he'll be great this season.

[Andy Holloway]

Jason, you have him at 13. I got him at 15. Mike 17. And he does have, from a range of outcomes, standpoint, talent, opportunity. If the offensive lines improved, they're going to commit to Joe Mixon. That's the fact you're going to get a season of seeing what Joe Mixon has and that's something you should be excited about. As a fantasy owner, I still think.

[Mike Wright]

That GEO will be heavily utilized.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, yeah. You can only use Geo so much. There's a little like a health meter on him. I think we've talked about that before.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, he does have a little bit of that. The Amendola health meter.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah. You only can give him so much work, but Derek Henry comes in at number 17. Derek Henry is going to be another hot topic all off season. Now you've added Dion Lewis to that backfield, but Derek Henry will get his opportunity to be the guy in the backfield. And last year, 50% of the time, Derek Henry faced eight plus in the box. To me, that screams of the predictability of that offense last year, which is one of the reasons why, despite making the playoffs, they made a change at the head coaching position. So do we have confidence that they're going to use Derek Henry the right way and we'll get to see this kind of explosive, evasive skill set? You know, you saw him last year. I believe he and Dion Lewis led the league in yards after first contact. So what are we going to see from Derek Henry? What is the range of outcomes now that Dion Lewis has been added to the backfield?

[Mike Wright]

Here's the range of outcomes for Derek Henry. We have a sample size last year of three games with no DeMarco Murray. And here's what happened against Jacksonville. He ran the ball 28 times. I love it. He rushed the ball on those 28 carries. He gained 51 yards.

[Andy Holloway]

Not as much.

[Mike Wright]

I don't love that as much.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah, you don't like that.

[Mike Wright]

Look, it's Jacksonville. But Derek Henry saved the day with a 66 yard touchdown reception. The wild card weekend against the Chiefs. If you don't remember this, it was amazing. It was, feed Derrick Henry the ball, watch him destroy. Because 23 carries, 156 yards and a rushing touchdown. He was an absolute beast. And then the next week against the Patriots, 12 for 28. That's your range of outcomes for Derek Henry.

[Andy Holloway]

Well, but see, for that first game, the really good game, that's when the ownership was up there ripping up DeMarco Murray's contract for the next year. So they couldn't undo that after he didn't play well the next week.

[Mike Wright]

Just saying, it's. It's kind of all over the map. I think that the Titans, their staff has spoke volumes about can Derek Henry actually be that Three down guy that draft Twitter assumed that he was going to be when he was taken in the second round. And the Titans say no, I don't think that means you need to totally dismiss Derrick Henry. He's still going to get the ball. He's still going to carry it, what, 250 plus times?

[Andy Holloway]

Yes. And just so you know, because we won't get all the way to 25, we have Dion Lewis as our consensus 25. Derek Henry at 17.

[Jason Moore]

As I sit here, I already wrote down a note to look at that Henry versus Dion Lewis. Because I actually think that at the end of the year, Dion Lewis better value. He'll definitely without a shadow of a doubt be the better value come draft day. But I think there's a chance he's just the better back. More fantasy points a la Alvin Camara. You know, the.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, it's a fair comparison value you.

[Jason Moore]

Get in the passing game versus the running game. That's all going to Deon Lewis. But there will be rushing work for Dion Lewis as well.

[Andy Holloway]

We don't know how they're going to use Lewis. If you had the confidence of like what we saw in at the end of the year where he was the RB5 in PPR leagues in New England. I think there's just question marks, new head, new coaching staff. Does Mariota bounce back? Is the offensive line improved? I think there are a lot of. I think there's some value to be had in that backfield. I don't know which way it is.

[Jason Moore]

Right. But the new staff coming in got rid of DeMarco, his bloated contract and they brought in Deion Lewis. They didn't say, okay, Henry, you're the guy. They went out and said it's going to be a 1A 1B. That's how I interpret that, actually.

[Andy Holloway]

They technically said, henry, you're going to be the guy and did all of that confidence, talked about him being a pass catcher, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah. And then they signed Dan Lewis.

[Jason Moore]

But what they did.

[Andy Holloway]

Because you have to sign somebody.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Mike Wright]

But also built into Derek Henry is the fact that Dion Lewis has played a full season. One time.

[Jason Moore]

True.

[Mike Wright]

Before that it was seven games. Seven games. Nine games.

[Andy Holloway]

Yes. Also built into Derek Henry is a Mack truck.

[Jason Moore]

That's also true.

[Andy Holloway]

Each leg, each One truck is one truck. Number 18 on the running back rankings, it's Carlos Hyde. And no surprise, Mike has him highest among the three of us at 18. So you didn't go crazy. And then Jason, 19, I have him at 24. I'll be honest with you. I ranked him at 24 because I am conceding that the the Browns have 17 draft picks as of today. I believe something in the top half of the draft is going the running back direction. Could be as early as number four with Saquon Barkley. So I do not think Carlos Hyde will have as much of the share of the backfield as maybe you guys are projecting. I don't know how you considered it. That's what we're talking about last year though. I mean the last two years, 2016 he was the 15th best back. 2017 last year number nine on a bad team. Got it done. 240 carries under a thousand yards. He was stuffed 26% of the time and he just never fit what Kyle Shanahan wanted in the backfield. But we need to remember that just because that guy, just because that coach doesn't want him doesn't mean he was bad.

[Jason Moore]

Right? No, our side was great.

[Andy Holloway]

His release not being re signed, there wasn't necessarily an indictment on his ability.

[Jason Moore]

Right. Just didn't didn't fit that scheme. And if Carlos Hyde at the end of the year is a top 12 back, I would not be shocked. He is a much, much better back than Isaiah Crowell who last year was kind of in, you know, in discussion in adp was kind of inching his way up to that running back one. Look, he's a rich man's Isaiah Crowell. That's not a great compliment.

[Andy Holloway]

No, that's fair.

[Jason Moore]

But that's what he is. So you know Isaiah Crawl last year finished about 30th. Right now we've got, you know, Carlos Hyde ranked about 19th. What he did last year with his 50 plus receptions. It's not happening with Duke Johnson and Jarvis Landry. Those targets aren't going to Carlos Hyde will his touchdown volume and if they.

[Andy Holloway]

Do, Landry will just stick out his arms and take right.

[Mike Wright]

He'll just go to steal them mine.

[Jason Moore]

I got to get to 100, got to call it. So you know he's hard to rank because I don't expect him to be involved a lot in the passing game. I think he is a very talented running back. I do think the offense is going to get better but I don't trust the Browns.

[Andy Holloway]

He's covered in all of these different very easy to explain warts. So that could be great value if those things, you know, if he breaks through. But it is a tall task to break through in Cleveland. It is a tall task to break through in as A transitioning running back to a new team. And so there are, there are piles of question marks.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah, I do think he'll probably be of value because if the Browns don't grab another running back, nobody's going to want to hold the Browns running back again. But he is a significant improvement.

[Andy Holloway]

There's just no way they will. With his health and then just having Duke Johnson on the roster, there's no way they don't draft somebody.

[Mike Wright]

But drafting somebody in the fourth round.

[Andy Holloway]

In the top four rounds, I'd water bet that. In the top, I would water bet top.

[Mike Wright]

But I was saying even a running back drafted in the fourth round to me would pose no threat.

[Andy Holloway]

No threat?

[Mike Wright]

No threat.

[Andy Holloway]

That's ridiculous.

[Jason Moore]

A fourth round. I don't think that's a ridiculous statement. I mean, you've got a lot of fourth round running backs that don't do all that much.

[Andy Holloway]

You have a lot that do as well.

[Jason Moore]

Sure. But they're not coming in behind a newly signed.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah, three years, $15 million for. If they do that, if they honestly draft a running back in the fourth round or higher to come and compete against Carlos Hyde with all everything else they could do. That team, they are morons.

[Andy Holloway]

No, they're not. No, they're not. Not at all. Carlos Hyde has a injury history that's, that's well documented. And you don't have another banger behind him. You have nobody else established. You're not talking about trying to get somebody to come in and win the job. The NFL player, the teams, they look at it like, let's solidify the running back position. So you bring in a guy to be a compliment to Carlos Hyde, then you have him off the field on third down. And then every third drive, you've got a guy drafted in the third round coming in and taking some carries. So you keep him healthy. Nobody thinks Carlos Hyde can stay healthy a whole season as your only running back. Yeah, I'm going to move down based on. No, I've got him. That's why I got him at 24. You guys have him a little higher, right? All right. Rex Burkhead is tied. Rex Burkett is tied with Carlos Hyde. Burkett coming in at 18 on my rankings. Mike's got him at 20. Jason, you're at 23.

[Mike Wright]

Jason.

[Jason Moore]

This is much more Jason. It's, it's, it's Andy's comment about Carlos Hyde. It's the belief that if someone else comes in there, it would stand to reason that Jeremy Hill's not going to be their only Acquisition if he is Rex Burkhead will shoot up my rankings. I talked about what happened the. You know, whenever Rex Burkhead got at least 10 touches, he was averaging over 17 points a game in half point PPR which is outstanding. It's tied with Alvin Camara last year. I love Rex Burkhead. This my ranking is kind of a tempering the ability to know whatever the Patriots are going to do with the running backs.

[Mike Wright]

You'll never know though.

[Andy Holloway]

Gillisle guys. Gillisle is much more important to talk about than Jeremy Hill. Gillisle is under contract and now has an opportunity to be re involved in that offense.

[Jason Moore]

But I'm less afraid of Burkhead was.

[Andy Holloway]

Already the RB12 over the last seven weeks with Dion Lewis taking a bunch of that work. I like him as a top 24 guy on a great offense and I know that New England's not going to go out and spend big Money now. Does DeMarco Murray sign there all of a sudden or you know, another kind of like Darren Sprouls or something like that?

[Mike Wright]

The greatest concern for me, for Rex Burkhead, would they go out and they get another pass catching specialist, right?

[Andy Holloway]

Mike Sprouls?

[Mike Wright]

Yes, because I know James White is that guy. But Rex Burkhead is versatile and he's an excellent pass catcher as well. But it. But if all of a sudden you're competing for that role and they decide to re implement Mike Gillesley as the goal line back there, there's a lot of for me, even as a Rex Burkhead. Truth or I think there's more. I have more concern about Rex Burkhead's role in the offense than I do than or for Carlos Hyde.

[Andy Holloway]

I think that's very fair because my next question to both of you was do you really think New England wants to use him on first and second down? Because I don't really think they do. I think they're willing to use him but the role that they would carve out for Burkhead I don't think is going to be this we're going to put him down there as our every down back.

[Jason Moore]

No, that's why I say if the roster stays as it is, he will be. I think they'll be his. He'll be the first and second down back. He'll beat Gilly. They were both on the roster last year. He beat Gilly last year. So I'm not concerned that much. But I believe you're correct when you say they don't really want that. That's Why? I just can't see them standing pat.

[Andy Holloway]

All right, let's round it out with number 20. A name I never thought would be on a preseason running back ranking list. I don't blame you, Alex.

[Jason Moore]

Better patter.

[Andy Holloway]

Happy feet Collins. Alex Collins. Jason, I believe you just completed your second Alex Collins tattoo.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

On the rib cage, was it?

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Well, one is a foot on the left rib cage, the other is a foot on the right. He's tap dancing and Irish dancing his way. And slowly I'm going to bring the feet towards my heart.

[Mike Wright]

Collins and flatley for life. Am I right?

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

So you like Alex Collins?

[Jason Moore]

I think he was great. My biggest worry with Alex Collins is basically Philip Dorsett.

[Mike Wright]

Philip Dorsett.

[Andy Holloway]

Dorsett. I'm sorry, what do you know about Philip Dorsett?

[Jason Moore]

No, it'll seem just the same. Is Kamar Aiken. Is Kamar Aiken Because. No, let me explain that because.

[Mike Wright]

Okay.

[Andy Holloway]

No, no, no.

[Mike Wright]

Okay. I.

[Jason Moore]

You follow the logic. You see what I'm saying? Here's what happened to Kamara.

[Mike Wright]

The fact that you messed up with the Philip set, though, that's great.

[Andy Holloway]

It was already going to be a hard connection before you said the name wrong.

[Jason Moore]

Yes. Kamar Akin, a couple of years ago, due to injury with this regime with the Ravens, with this coaching staff, was thrust into a starting role and he excelled at it. I thought he was great. The reception, perception, tracking said he is very good. I was all excited for Kamar Akin because he was a good wide receiver. And then when the other guys who were injured got healthy and they came back, poof, they said, no, we don't. We never wanted Kamara Akin to be the guy. He did a great job. Pat on the back and send him on your way.

[Andy Holloway]

$630,000 is what they have invested and that's not in Alex Collins.

[Jason Moore]

And so, you know, Alex Collins was this regime. Thrust into a starting role that was not the guy they wanted. But due to injury, he took over the role. I think he was magnificent. He was great.

[Andy Holloway]

10 plus yards on 27 of his 212 carries. 4th best in the league if it comes.

[Jason Moore]

You know, we're going into week one of the season and it looks like he's the clear starter. He's been named the starter. I'm going to move him way up my rankings because I believe in him. I wouldn't be shocked if he's, like, not on the roster. That's. That's how much I don't trust the Ravens here. And this is kind of a theme right we're getting into these.

[Andy Holloway]

Don't disagree with any of what you're saying.

[Jason Moore]

Running backs, where it's like they're, you know, it's a matter of the coaches and the opportunity.

[Mike Wright]

My favorite part of that whole elaborate story is the fact that he could have just said Terrence west, who was the running back for the Baltimore Ravens two years ago, and we thought he was going to be.

[Jason Moore]

The difference is I never thought Terrence west looked good. That's fine.

[Mike Wright]

But Terrence west performed as the running.

[Andy Holloway]

Back for the good for a little while. Look, it's all about competition on this roster for the running back position.

[Mike Wright]

Dixon, it's going to say, do not forget Kenneth Dixon.

[Andy Holloway]

They will be competing for opportunities. They may draft someone as well. We're going to be moving on to. Is it wide receivers next?

[Jason Moore]

Brooks.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

Or is it a mystery that you only have to find out by listening?

[Jason Moore]

Let's go with mystery. It certainly might not be wide receivers.

[Andy Holloway]

Could be anything.

[Jason Moore]

Mailbag, Mailbag.

[Andy Holloway]

You all right there?

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

All right. If you have a question, the fantasy footballers.com, that's the website. You go there, you click the Submit a question button and send us your question. You can also dial our voicemail hotline, 302464, TFFB. Very easy to leave us a message. Keep them, keep them tight, keep them short, brief, to the point, and we'll get them on the show. Like this one.

[Jason Moore]

Hey, ballers, this is Spencer from Roanoke, Virginia. I was listening to the running backs episode this morning and was reminded of the frustration that was being a Kareem Hunt owner. Like to create a motion and see your thoughts. Anytime Andy Reid inevitably underuses a great running back, we should call them. Reed tired, as in Kareem Hunt got Reed tired this game. So we can all sulk together. Your thoughts. Thanks.

[Andy Holloway]

Wait, important question.

[Jason Moore]

I can get behind that. I mean, it's going to be on a game by game basis, but there were a couple of games that got retired. Yeah, I love that.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

Ultimately, the judge is the one that.

[Mike Wright]

Oh, yes, Judge Giamatti.

[Jason Moore]

What is your ruling?

[Andy Holloway]

What do you think, Judge? It passes. Yeah. Good. So if poor Cream Hunt, you're going to get Reed tired a couple of times.

[Mike Wright]

Yes.

[Andy Holloway]

All right, question coming in from Mark in Atlanta. Should I keep Thielen for an 11th round or Dalvin Cook for a third round? Oh, already has Gurley and Hopkins on the roster. Gurley was for a second and then Hopkins for a fourth. And so you would be. You'd have a first rounder but you would not have a second and third if you kept Dalvin Cook. You would not have a second, third and fourth if you kept Dalvin Cook. That being said, I'm hooked on this.

[Mike Wright]

Wow.

[Jason Moore]

I'm hooked on a team.

[Andy Holloway]

I'm going to take Thielen for essentially free.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah.

[Andy Holloway]

Yeah.

[Jason Moore]

You've already got a stud running back. It's, you know, so you're not pushed into that corner where everyone has one in a keeper league. You're going to be forced to take that even though it's less value in the 11th round. Adam Thielen, I still think, you know, is a top 10 wide receiver. It's great.

[Mike Wright]

Yeah. Eileen that way as well.

[Andy Holloway]

All right, Quincy and Harrisburg, where do you guys think Devonte Adams will finish? Drafted him and almost every mock that I have done this year. And in the second or third round, it is hard to turn down Aaron Rodgers, number one receiver.

[Mike Wright]

You completely agree. Where does he finish? Top 10, I think is a lock. And you have, you have top five upside with him if the touchdowns continue there.

[Andy Holloway]

You agree, Jason?

[Jason Moore]

I absolutely agree. I put him at seven. That's, that's where I'll say. Except we'll get into more specifics. Maybe next episode. We don't know. Maybe.

[Mike Wright]

Maybe not maybe.

[Jason Moore]

But I do agree he's a lot before we know but they don't.

[Mike Wright]

But it's good to tell them what's happening.

[Jason Moore]

Yeah. Well, we're going to talk about wide receivers coming up. Will it be next episode? We still don't know, Mike.

[Andy Holloway]

You know, Kamari Aiken's the real problem here. Darn Philip Dorset said darn Philip Dorset. Hey, stay tuned for the show after the show on YouTube. So I guess don't stay tuned on the podcast. You'll have to go over there to watch the show after the show. Thank you for listening, subscribing, supporting. Join TheFoot.com's community and check out Draft.com Ballers Goodbye for some best ball.

[Jason Moore]

Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast. Join our fantasy football community on jointhefoot.com and follow us on Twitter the FFballers.