Fantasy Football 2018 - NFL Draft Breakdown: AFC Winners & Losers

Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Release Date: May 1, 2018
Podcast: Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast

Introduction

In this episode of The Fantasy Footballers, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright delve into the 2018 NFL Draft, focusing specifically on the AFC teams. They analyze the winners and losers of the draft, discussing key trades, player selections, and their implications for fantasy football enthusiasts.

AFC Draft Winners and Losers

Arizona Cardinals: The Biggest Winner

Mike Wright kicks off the discussion by highlighting the Arizona Cardinals' strategic move in the draft: trading up in the first round to secure quarterback Josh Rosen. He praises the decision, stating:

"Franchise quarterback drafted in the first round and Josh Rosen gave up pennies on the dollar to move up and get him Christian Kirk in the second round." ([02:24])

Jason Moore echoes this sentiment, expressing excitement over the Cardinals' draft haul, while David Johnson remains cautiously optimistic about Rosen's potential:

"I really hope that I am wrong about Josh Rosen, that he is a franchise quarterback and that he is pliable and humble and will learn and become great." ([04:21])

The hosts agree that Rosen's success could be a game-changer for both the Cardinals and fantasy managers.

Buffalo Bills: Mixed Results

The Bills made headlines by selecting quarterback Josh Allen in the first round. While Allen presents a high-upside option, the Bills' decision to pass on strengthening their offensive line raises concerns. Jason Moore points out:

"The biggest fantasy football surprise from the draft was Rashad Pinney became a first rounder on draft night to the Seattle Seahawks at the back of the first round." ([12:35])

However, Mike Wright criticizes the Bills for not addressing key offensive needs, such as improving their offensive line, which is crucial for Allen's development.

Miami Dolphins: Surprising Choices

The Dolphins drafted tight end Mike Gasicki in the second round, an unexpected choice that signals a shift in their offensive strategy. David Johnson notes:

"They didn't replace Blake Bortles. They drafted Mike Gasicki, which was a surprising move." ([25:28])

While Gasicki brings athleticism to the position, the Dolphins' running back strategy remains questionable with the addition of Caleb Bellage, potentially complicating their backfield dynamics.

New York Jets: Stealing Sam Darnold

The Jets solidified their quarterback situation by selecting Sam Darnold, seen by many as a steal of the draft. Jason Moore highlights:

"Sam Darnold will throw plenty of interceptions, but he'll throw plenty of touchdowns." ([29:13])

Despite concerns about Darnold's consistency, his potential upside makes him a valuable addition for both the Jets and fantasy managers.

New England Patriots: Bold Moves

The Patriots made a surprising first-round selection with Sony Michel, a decision met with mixed reactions. Mike Wright praises the pick:

"You just can't write off a first-round running back like Sony Michel." ([31:02])

However, Jason Moore remains skeptical, comparing Michel to past running backs like Dion Lewis and questioning his long-term fantasy value.

Denver Broncos: Strong Offensive Picks

The Broncos focused on bolstering their offense by selecting wide receiver Courtland Sutton and running back Royce Freeman. David Johnson shares his enthusiasm:

"Royce Freeman is going to be probably my second or third ranked rookie coming into this season." ([34:03])

Jason Moore remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the potential impact of Sutton and Freeman on the Broncos' offensive dynamics.

Los Angeles Chargers: Focus on Defense

The Chargers concentrated their draft picks on defensive players, aiming to shore up their defense rather than their offense. Jason Moore commends the strategy:

"They drafted the perfect pieces to plug those holes. So I think you're going to have a strong team." ([37:21])

While this may benefit their overall team strength, Mike Wright identifies Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler as key offensive contributors who could shine in fantasy leagues.

Kansas City Chiefs: Defensive Investments

The Chiefs heavily invested in their defense, selecting six defensive players during the draft. David Johnson summarizes:

"They used six picks and they used them all on defense." ([39:04])

Despite this focus, Jason Moore expresses optimism about the offense, particularly with the continued development of quarterback Philip Rivers.

Oakland Raiders: Balancing Offense and Defense

The Raiders drafted offensive tackle Colton Miller and iterated on their offensive line, while also acquiring Martavis Bryant to enhance their wide receiver corps. Mike Wright highlights:

"Martavis Bryant gives Derek Carr a nice valuable weapon on the outside." ([39:59])

However, concerns remain about Jordy Nelson's production with the addition of Bryant, as discussed in the segment.

Cincinnati Bengals: Strengthening the Offensive Line

The Bengals addressed their offensive line needs by drafting a center and additional linemen, which bodes well for their running game. Jason Moore points out:

"The additions at the offensive line, you gotta love that for Joe Mixon and his projections moving into the season." ([41:24])

Jason Moore remains optimistic about the Bengals' ability to secure a strong offensive foundation that benefits both the team and fantasy managers.

Cleveland Browns: High Risk, High Reward

The Browns selected Nick Chubb in the second round, a move seen as ambitious but risky due to their already crowded backfield and questionable offensive line decisions. David Johnson criticizes:

"It's a 0.2% chance that both Carlos Hyde and Nick Chubb could have relevance." ([46:48])

While some hosts remain hopeful about Chubb's potential, others advise caution given the Browns' overall roster composition.

Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson as a Star QB

The Ravens solidified their quarterback position by trading for Lamar Jackson, positioning him as a top-tier fantasy option due to his dual-threat capabilities. Jason Moore lauds:

"In dynasty startup rookie drafts, I think there's no chance, there's like zero chance that Lamar Jackson does not have a lot of successful fantasy games in the future." ([49:13])

The consensus is that Jackson's rushing ability ensures consistent fantasy points, making him a highly coveted asset.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Building for the Future

The Steelers focused on securing a replacement quarterback and adding wide receivers Mason Rudolph and James Washington. Jason Moore emphasizes:

"I think Mason Rudolph can back up Ben Roethlisberger effectively." ([53:00])

While Antonio Brown's future remains uncertain, the Steelers' draft strategy appears geared towards long-term success, benefiting dynasty fantasy leagues.

Indianapolis Colts: Focus on the Offensive Line

The Colts invested in their offensive line, selecting two linemen early in the draft. Mike Wright notes:

"They finally got some linemen. Two offensive linemen in the first two rounds." ([54:43])

With improved protection for quarterback Andrew Luck, the Colts aim to enhance their offensive performance, indirectly benefiting fantasy players reliant on Luck and the running game.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Depth at Wide Receiver

The Jaguars prioritized adding depth at the wide receiver position, selecting DJ Chark and Marquis Lee. Jason Moore critiques:

"Do you just like throw out four die and whatever order they land in is the order you draft these wide receivers?" ([57:58])

While depth is beneficial, the uncertainty surrounding the wide receivers' immediate impact may pose challenges for fantasy managers.

Houston Texans and Tennessee Titans: Limited Draft Moves

Both the Texans and Titans made minimal draft moves, focusing on maintaining their current rosters. The Texans brought back Alfred Blue, while the Titans selected quarterback Marcus Mariota in the later rounds. David Johnson views these moves as maintaining status quo, offering limited immediate fantasy impact.

Key Takeaways for Fantasy Football Managers

1. Josh Rosen (Arizona Cardinals): A high-impact first-round QB pick with potential franchise quarterback status. Fantasy managers should monitor his development closely.

2. Sam Darnold (New York Jets): Seen as a steal of the draft, Darnold offers high upside but comes with consistency concerns. A valuable addition for dynasty leagues.

3. Sony Michel (New England Patriots): A bold first-round RB selection that may yield significant fantasy points if he reaches his potential. However, durability and team fit remain questions.

4. Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Emerging as a top quarterback for fantasy, his dual-threat ability ensures consistent points through both passing and rushing.

5. Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns): A high-risk, high-reward RB pick whose fantasy value depends on the Browns' offensive line and backfield performance.

6. Royce Freeman (Denver Broncos): Showcased impressive collegiate performance, making him a top rookie pick with significant fantasy potential.

Conclusion

The 2018 NFL Draft introduced several impactful players and strategic moves across the AFC. While teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Baltimore Ravens emerged as clear draft winners, others like the Cleveland Browns and New England Patriots took more calculated risks that could pay off handsomely or pose challenges. Fantasy football managers should keep a close eye on these developments as the season unfolds, leveraging these insights to optimize their rosters for success.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Wright ([02:24]): "Franchise quarterback drafted in the first round and Josh Rosen gave up pennies on the dollar to move up and get him Christian Kirk in the second round."

• Jason Moore ([04:21]): "I really hope that I am wrong about Josh Rosen, that he is a franchise quarterback and that he is pliable and humble and will learn and become great."

• Jason Moore ([29:13]): "Sam Darnold will throw plenty of interceptions, but he'll throw plenty of touchdowns."

• David Johnson ([34:03]): "Royce Freeman is going to be probably my second or third ranked rookie coming into this season."

• Jason Moore ([49:13]): "In dynasty startup rookie drafts, I think there's no chance, there's like zero chance that Lamar Jackson does not have a lot of successful fantasy games in the future."

• Jason Moore ([53:00]): "I think Mason Rudolph can back up Ben Roethlisberger effectively."

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