Fantasy Footballers Podcast - Episode: Rookie WRs, Interview with Adam Aizer, Mailbag
Release Date: May 7, 2015
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Guest: Adam Azer, Host and Analyst at CBS Sports

1. Introduction of Guest: Adam Azer

The episode kicks off with an enthusiastic introduction of Adam Azer, a respected host and analyst from CBS Sports known for his deep insights into fantasy football and baseball. The hosts express their excitement about having Adam on the show, highlighting his expertise and the value he brings to the fantasy football community.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [01:27]: "We will be joined by Adam Azer... He's one of our favorite guys in the fantasy football community."

2. Rookie Wide Receivers: Amari Cooper vs. Kevin White

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to analyzing the top rookie wide receiver prospects, primarily Amari Cooper and Kevin White. The hosts delve into their potential impacts, team situations, and fantasy value.

Amari Cooper (Oakland Raiders):
Amari Cooper is lauded for his high ceiling and consistent performance. His role as the primary receiver is emphasized, especially with David Carr at quarterback, who the hosts believe will elevate Cooper's performance.

Kevin White (Chicago Bears):
Kevin White is praised for his physical attributes and the dynamic offense led by Jay Cutler. However, concerns about Victor Cruz's injury and whether White can consistently perform at a high level are discussed.

Notable Quotes:
Adam Azer [08:35]: "I'm going with Kevin White. That's who I want on my team."
Mike Wright [10:35]: "I really do think Amari Cooper is the guy that you want to take."

3. Evaluation of Other Rookie Wide Receivers

Beyond the frontrunners, the hosts evaluate other rookie wide receivers, assessing their roles, team dynamics, and potential fantasy contributions.

• Devonte Parker (Miami Dolphins): Considered a solid pick for dynasty leagues due to his potential in a developing offense but seen as less reliable for single-season drafts.
• Nelson Aguiar (Philadelphia Eagles): Viewed as a high-upside pick within a robust offensive system, potentially outperforming peers like Devonte Parker.
• Rashad Perryman (Baltimore Ravens): While talented, concerns about his reliability and team fit are noted, making him a risky but possible breakout candidate.
• Philip Dorsett (Indianapolis Colts): Critiqued as a poor first-round pick with limited immediate fantasy value, though holding some long-term dynasty potential.
• Green Beckham (Tennessee Titans): Disappointed by his landing spot and team situation, casting doubt on his initial fantasy impact.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [22:48]: "So how good is Devonte Parker and what is his role? ... How good is Devonte Parker?"

4. Running Backs Discussion: David Johnson and Others

The conversation shifts to running backs, with a focus on David Johnson and comparisons to other backfield prospects.

• David Johnson (Arizona Cardinals): Highlighted as a valuable second-round pick with high potential, especially in PPR formats.
• Duke Johnson (Miami Dolphins): Viewed as less favorable due to injury concerns and a crowded backfield.
• Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin): Debated as a potential high-value fourth-round pick, though facing skepticism based on past performance against strong run defenses.
• Todd Gurley: Mentioned as a top-tier option, though details on him are less prominent in this episode.

Notable Quotes:
Andy Holloway [31:14]: "I'd say top three pick next year."
Adam Azer [33:08]: "I think David Johnson has a really good opportunity."

5. In-Depth Interview with Adam Azer

Adam Azer joins the hosts for a segment of personal and professional questions, providing listeners with a glimpse into his preferences and strategies.

• Favorite Food: Pizza, cheeseburgers, and burritos.
• Favorite Movie: "Braveheart."
• Favorite Football Player: Tiki Barber, citing a connection from his college days.

Draft Strategies and Bust Alerts:
Adam shares his perspective on potential busts like Isaiah Crowell and Todd Davis, emphasizing the importance of opportunity and supporting cast in evaluating draft picks. He also discusses his philosophy on drafting quarterbacks late, favoring depth over early positions.

Notable Quote:
Adam Azer [30:10]: "I think Mariota... he'd be a bust for me."

6. Mailbag: Listener Questions and Expert Advice

The hosts address listener-submitted questions, offering tailored advice based on individual league formats and specific scenarios.

• Question from Will:
  Scenario: 12-team PPR, keeper snake draft. Option to keep Eddie Lacy (3rd round) or Mike Evans (9th round).
  Advice: Majority recommendation is to keep Eddie Lacy for his better value as a running back in the third round.

• Tandem Wide Receivers:
  Scenario: Managing tandem WRs like Kevin White and Alshon Jeffries.
  Advice: Play tandem based on team performance and consider trading Kevin White for value, especially in dynasty leagues.

• Quarterback Preferences:
  Options: Carson Palmer, Ryan Tannehill, Andy Dalton.
  Advice: Ryan Tannehill is favored due to his potential and fit in a rebuilding offense.

• Performance Bonuses Impact:
  Scenario: Leagues with bonuses for QB passing yards and RB rushing yards.
  Advice: Minimal impact on overall strategy, though it might slightly elevate the value of consistent performers who hit these bonuses.

Notable Quotes:
Mike Wright [54:16]: "Break up, dump them. I don't see any long term value."

7. Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with the hosts thanking Adam Azer for his participation and encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast through reviews and social media. They also promote their partnership with FanDuel, offering a promo code to listeners.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [59:03]: "Thank you for listening to another edition of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast... we appreciate it."

Key Takeaways:

• Rookie WRs: Amari Cooper and Kevin White are top rookie wide receivers with distinct advantages and team dynamics that make them valuable fantasy picks.
• Running Backs: David Johnson emerges as a strong second-round pick, while discussions around Melvin Gordon and Todd Gurley reflect varying levels of confidence based on opportunity and past performance.
• Draft Strategy: Emphasis on flexibility during drafts, focusing on value rather than sticking rigidly to positional plans. Late-round quarterback drafting is recommended.
• Performance Bonuses: Modest influence on overall draft strategy, with a slight preference towards consistency in players who can achieve bonus thresholds.

This episode provides comprehensive insights into rookie wide receiver prospects, strategic drafting considerations, and practical advice tailored to various fantasy football league formats, making it an invaluable resource for both novice and seasoned fantasy managers.