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

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.

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]).

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.

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.

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.

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