Detailed Summary of "Fantasy Football Podcast 2015 - Running Back Fallout from the NFL Draft, News, Questions"

Release Date: May 5, 2015

Introduction and NFL Draft Recap

The episode kicks off with hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright welcoming listeners to a post-draft edition of The Fantasy Footballers Podcast. They reflect on the NFL Draft weekend, sharing their favorite moments and initial reactions.

Andy opens the discussion by highlighting the excitement around the first pick and the anticipation surrounding who might trade up for the number two spot. Jason expresses a neutral sentiment towards the draft overall, describing it as "a super boring draft" due to the lack of significant trades or surprising moves ([00:44] Jason Moore). Mike echoes this sentiment, mentioning the heavy influx of text messages about draft picks and the unexpected selection of Marcus Mariota as the second overall pick ([01:53] Mike Wright).

Running Back Fallout: Key Picks and Analysis

The core of the episode delves into the implications of the NFL Draft on the running back (RB) landscape, dissecting how recent selections affect team rushing strategies and fantasy football prospects.

1. Todd Gurley and the St. Louis Rams

   The Rams' selection of Todd Gurley with the 10th overall pick is a focal point. Andy and Jason express surprise at Gurley's selection, noting St. Louis's consistent approach to drafting RBs—having previously selected Zach Stacy and Trey Mason. Mike raises concerns about Gurley's immediate impact, predicting he may start on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to an ACL injury ([12:05] Mike Wright).

   • Notable Quote:
     • Mike Wright: “...I see Gurley ending up on the PUP list, I think he's going to start there.” ([12:38] Mike Wright)

   The hosts agree that Gurley's workload will likely be managed carefully, making Trey Mason a valuable late-round pick due to the Rams' bolstered offensive line and commitment to the running game.

2. Amir Abdullah and Joy Bell in Detroit

   Discussion shifts to Detroit, where Amir Abdullah was drafted alongside Joy Bell. Andy believes Abdullah complements Bell by enhancing the receiving game without directly impacting Bell's role. In contrast, Mike is skeptical about Abdullah's immediate dominance but foresees his growth as the season progresses.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Andy Holloway: “...I think that this destroys Theo Riddick's value because Amir Abdullah is a pass-catching, complemented speed back.” ([23:30] Andy Holloway)

   Jason supports the long-term potential of Abdullah, suggesting he could become a significant fantasy asset as the Lions commit to the passing game.

3. Tevin Coleman vs. Devontae Freeman in the Falcons

   The Falcons selected Tevin Coleman in the third round, prompting a debate on his fit within Kyle Shanahan's system. Andy is cautious, citing Coleman's sprint-heavy style as a possible mismatch with Shanahan's patient block schemes. Mike is more optimistic, believing Coleman can adapt and become a valuable playmaker.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore: “I absolutely draft Tevin Coleman over Devontae Freeman.” ([32:32] Jason Moore)

   Jason leans towards Devontae Freeman, questioning Coleman's ability to fit into the Falcons' offensive strategy and expressing concerns about Freeman's durability and workload.

4. Duke Johnson and the Browns Backfield

   The Browns drafted Duke Johnson, intensifying the complexity of their RB roster, which includes Tajik McDuffie, Terrence West, and Toby Gerhart. Andy expresses trepidation over the Browns' inconsistent backfield, while Jason acknowledges Johnson's role as a pass-catcher but remains uncertain about his role as a workhorse.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Andy Holloway: “I don't know, I think their offensive line is very important...” ([30:00] Andy Holloway)

   The hosts debate whether to prioritize Johnson or seek value elsewhere, ultimately agreeing that Duke Johnson provides a safe floor as a pass-catching RB, albeit with limited workhorse potential.

5. David Johnson in Arizona Cardinals

   David Johnson emerges as a standout prospect for the Arizona Cardinals, who have invested heavily in their offensive line. Andy and Mike highlight Johnson's talent and the favorable environment he enters, while Jason remains cautiously optimistic about his potential to finish as an RB1.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Andy Holloway: “...he has talent, supporting cast, opportunity—that’s why I like him.” ([42:06] Andy Holloway)

   The trio underscores Arizona's robust offensive line as a critical factor enabling Johnson's success, predicting he could be a sneaky late-round gem with significant upside.

Importance of Offensive Line in Fantasy Football

Listener Jonathan poses a question about the significance of an offensive line when selecting running backs. The hosts concur that while not always at the forefront, a strong offensive line can elevate a running back's performance, particularly in elite scenarios.

• Notable Quote:
  • Mike Wright: “...offensive lines are very important, especially the center position...” ([50:24] Mike Wright)

They emphasize that while mid-tier lines might not drastically impact a running back's value, the best and worst offensive lines can significantly influence production.

Listener Mailbag Highlights

Several listener questions are addressed, offering personalized advice:

1. Keeper League Strategy
   Grumpy Old Troll asks for advice on selecting keepers in a 12-team league. The hosts debate between keeping Adrian Peterson (AP) and Dez Bryant versus other options, ultimately advising a balanced approach to secure both RB and WR assets.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Mike Wright: “...I think Dez Bryant should hold that value.” ([53:30] Mike Wright)

2. Dynasty League Rookie Draft Picks
   AJ seeks guidance on targeting players in a 16-team dynasty rookie draft. Jason recommends targeting versatile running backs like Nelson Agholor, while Mike suggests considering Amir Abdullah for his long-term value.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Jason Moore: “...Nelson Agholor's a great position.” ([55:16] Jason Moore)

3. Drafting Strategy for Top Picks
   CZ writes in about choosing between Marius Thomas, Dez Bryant, DeMarco Murray, and LeSean McCoy. The hosts debate the merits of each, with Jason leaning towards Dez and LeSean McCoy for their balanced contributions to RB and WR positions.

   • Notable Quote:
     • Andy Holloway: “...I would take DeMarco and Dez McCoy because I'm higher on McCoy than I am Murray.” ([56:34] Andy Holloway)

Promotions and Future Episodes

The episode includes a brief promotion for FanDuel, encouraging listeners to use the promo code "Ballers" for a deposit bonus. Additionally, the hosts announce upcoming episodes featuring guest Adam Azer from CBS, focusing on post-draft fallout and mock drafts.

Closing Remarks

The hosts share light-hearted banter about their personal experiences over the draft weekend, concluding the episode with humor and camaraderie. They encourage listeners to follow them on social media and participate in future mailbag segments.

Notable Quotes Summary

• Mike Wright: “...I see Gurley ending up on the PUP list, I think he's going to start there.” ([12:38] Mike Wright)
• Andy Holloway: “...I think that this destroys Theo Riddick's value because Amir Abdullah is a pass-catching, complemented speed back.” ([23:30] Andy Holloway)
• Jason Moore: “I absolutely draft Tevin Coleman over Devontae Freeman.” ([32:32] Jason Moore)
• Mike Wright: “...if you’re going for a running back...” ([55:08] Mike Wright)
• Andy Holloway: “...he has talent, supporting cast, opportunity—that’s why I like him.” ([42:06] Andy Holloway)

Conclusion

This episode of The Fantasy Footballers provides an in-depth analysis of the NFL Draft's impact on running back selections, offering valuable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts. Through expert commentary and lively discussion, Andy, Jason, and Mike equip listeners with the knowledge to navigate post-draft complexities and optimize their fantasy rosters effectively.