Fantasy Footballers Podcast – Episode: "Fantasy Football 2018 - Free Agent Frenzy!"

Release Date: March 15, 2018

In this engaging and insightful episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright navigate the tumultuous waters of the 2018 NFL free agency period. Titled "Free Agent Frenzy!", the episode delves into significant player signings, their implications for fantasy football managers, and strategic advice to optimize team rosters amidst the chaos of free agency.

1. Introduction and Community Engagement

The episode begins with Andy Holloway promoting the Fantasy Footballers community at JoinTheFoot.com, highlighting its benefits for fantasy managers, including exclusive content and giveaways ([00:00]).

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “The ONE Fantasy Football Podcast you can't leave off your roster.” ([00:08])

2. Listener Interaction: Rooting for Fantasy over Real Teams

Early in the show, the hosts respond to a listener’s question about whether they ever root against their favorite NFL teams in favor of their fantasy teams. The discussion includes personal anecdotes and humorous takes on balancing real team loyalties with fantasy success ([02:08] – [05:58]).

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “Fantasy just makes the NFL a thousand times better.” ([05:58])

3. Major Free Agency Signings and Fantasy Implications

a. Kirk Cousins to Minnesota Vikings

Mike Wright expresses excitement over Kirk Cousins signing a three-year, $84 million deal with the Vikings, emphasizing his potential as a top-six quarterback and the stability he brings to the team’s offense ([06:47]).

Notable Quote:

• Mike Wright: “He is the missing piece on a very talented, loaded Minnesota Vikings team.” ([07:31])

Jason Moore counters by suggesting that Cousins might be overhyped due to the Vikings' inconsistent passing attempts, potentially affecting his fantasy output ([07:58]).

b. Sammy Watkins to Kansas City Chiefs

Sammy Watkins’ three-year, $48 million deal with the Chiefs is discussed, focusing on his role alongside Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce. The hosts debate whether Watkins can secure enough targets to be a top-tier fantasy wide receiver.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “He'll need more than 100 targets for a top 15 or top 20 year.” ([12:00])

c. Alan Robinson to Chicago Bears

Alan Robinson signs a three-year, $42 million contract with the Bears. The discussion highlights concerns about quarterback Mitchell Trubisky’s performance and its impact on Robinson's fantasy value.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “I'm not convinced that he's a good enough quarterback to succeed in the NFL.” ([17:08])

d. Carlos Hyde to Cleveland Browns

Carlos Hyde’s three-year, $15 million deal with the Browns raises red flags. The hosts express skepticism about Hyde’s potential in an underperforming team environment, questioning his fantasy relevance.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “Carlos Hyde went to the worst freaking place that he could possibly go.” ([23:08])

e. Jerick McKinnon to San Francisco 49ers

Jerick McKinnon moves to the 49ers on a four-year, $30 million contract. The hosts assess his role as a versatile running back and his potential to thrive in Kyle Shanahan’s offense.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “He’s still getting better as an actual football player. He’s got the tools.” ([33:02])

f. Jimmy Graham to Green Bay Packers

Jimmy Graham secures a three-year, $30 million deal with the Packers. The conversation centers on his declining performance and whether he can regain his form in Green Bay’s efficient offense.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “He can have his scoring opportunities... difficult to see a lead guy to hyper target here.” ([36:21])

g. Chandler Catanzaro to Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Chandler Catanzaro, a kicker, signs with the Buccaneers, addressing Tampa Bay’s previous issues with kickers. The hosts are optimistic about his potential impact.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “He’s got to be a kicker of the week for you next year.” ([38:08])

h. Case Keenum to Denver Broncos

Case Keenum’s two-year, $36 million deal with the Broncos is explored, highlighting his accuracy and the offensive weapons he’ll be paired with, making him a viable streaming option for fantasy managers.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “He is a good quarterback. When you put him with good weapons, he can succeed.” ([39:03])

4. Additional Signings and Fantasy Considerations

a. Ryan Grant to Washington Redskins

Ryan Grant’s four-year, $29 million contract with the Redskins is scrutinized for its value, given his limited career receptions. The hosts debate whether this is a worthwhile investment for fantasy managers.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “Ryan Grant is coming into his fifth year. He’s got a career total of 84 receptions.” ([52:00])

b. Other Notable Moves

The episode also touches on various other signings, including:

• Dante Moncrief to Jacksonville Jaguars: A one-year, $9.6 million deal discussed for his potential role in the Jaguars' offense.
• Paul Richardson to Washington Redskins: A five-year, $40 million contract reviewed with skepticism about his fantasy upside.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore: “Dante Moncrief is the type of guy that I would love right now in best ball leagues.” ([50:36])

5. Fantasy Strategies and Trade Recommendations

The hosts offer strategic advice on navigating free agency and potential trades:

• Prioritizing Elite Quarterbacks: Emphasizing the importance of securing top-tier quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Kirk Cousins.
• Trade Proposals: Andy suggests trading Cam Newton packages for Pat Mahomes, highlighting Mahomes' superior fantasy potential.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “I would trade Newton for Mahomes and something.” ([15:34])

6. Discussion on Unsigned Players

The hosts briefly mention several high-profile players still unsigned, such as AJ McCarron, DeMarco Murray, Doug Martin, Frank Gore, Jordy Nelson, and others, advising fantasy managers to keep an eye on these players as teams finalize their rosters ([57:33]).

7. Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with thanks to sponsors, reminders to join the community, and a light-hearted discussion about player performances and future expectations.

Notable Closing Quote:

• Andy Holloway: “Play some basketball@draft.com ballers. It’s fun.” ([59:47])

Conclusion

"Free Agent Frenzy!" serves as a comprehensive guide for fantasy football managers navigating the 2018 free agency landscape. The Fantasy Footballers provide expert analysis, balanced opinions, and actionable advice, ensuring listeners are well-equipped to make informed decisions and capitalize on the evolving dynamics of the NFL offseason. Whether it’s evaluating the merits of a high-profile quarterback signing or debating the value of diverse wide receiver contracts, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for fantasy enthusiasts aiming to gain the competitive edge in their leagues.

Connect with the Fantasy Footballers:

• Website: jointhefoot.com
• Twitter: @theffballers
• Spotify: Available on all major streaming platforms

This summary captures the essence of the "Free Agent Frenzy!" episode, highlighting key discussions, notable quotes, and strategic insights to aid fantasy football managers in optimizing their team rosters amid the free agency turmoil.