Fantasy Footballers Podcast 2016 - David Johnson Interview, Draft Thoughts & Review

Release Date: May 3, 2016
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Guest: David Johnson, Running Back of the Arizona Cardinals

Introduction

The episode kicks off with the Fantasy Footballers hosts—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright—expressing their excitement about post-draft discussions and introducing their special guest, David Johnson, the running back for the Arizona Cardinals. The hosts emphasize the show's commitment to providing in-depth analysis and unique insights to help fantasy football enthusiasts excel in their leagues.

Draft Reflections and Highlights

Jason Moore opens the segment by sharing his enthusiasm for the episode, hinting at in-depth draft analysis and the impact of recent draft picks. The hosts briefly discuss their ongoing efforts to update fantasy rankings on their website, promising refined insights based on the latest draft outcomes.

Jason Moore [03:11]: "I'm interested to see, you know, what happens to, like, Jay Ajayi. Mike and I were just talking about him."

Andy Holloway and Mike Wright delve into notable draft moments, highlighting Ezekiel Elliott's unexpected selection by the Cowboys and the Buccaneers' controversial decision to trade up for a kicker. The hosts express differing opinions on these moves, underscoring the unpredictable nature of fantasy drafts.

Andy Holloway [05:02]: "I did not think [the Cowboys would take Elliott]. It was just so phenomenal for fantasy that Ezekiel Elliott goes to the Cowboys behind that offensive line."

They also touch upon the implications of these picks on their fantasy rankings, indicating forthcoming updates on their platform.

Guest Interview: David Johnson

Welcome and Personal Updates

The hosts warmly welcome David Johnson to the show, congratulating him on his recent marriage.

Andy Holloway [12:22]: "Congratulations. It's fantastic."

NFL Draft Experience

David Johnson shares his surprising experiences during the NFL draft, emphasizing the depth of scouting and the extensive knowledge teams had about his background.

David Johnson [14:20]: "They knew like stuff from high school, stuff from middle school. They talked to all of my high school teachers, coaches, a lot of my coaches from uni."

He details his interactions with various teams, leading up to his selection by the Arizona Cardinals. Johnson describes the emotional moment he received the draft call while in Florida, highlighting his efforts to stay calm amidst the anticipation.

Rookie Year and Performance

Johnson reflects on his rookie year, initially expecting to contribute primarily on special teams and possibly on third downs. However, his role expanded significantly, allowing him to make a more substantial impact on the field than he had anticipated.

David Johnson [16:57]: "I was assumed to help out special teams and maybe getting third downs, getting in the game."

Fantasy Football Perspective

When asked about his performance relative to fantasy football expectations, Johnson humbly acknowledges his strengths in multiple facets of the game, including running, receiving, and pass protection. He appreciates the fantasy community's support and expresses gratitude for their interest in his career.

David Johnson [17:39]: "I think you definitely should pick me, Todd. A great player, but I feel like with me I'm able to produce on multiple phases of the game."

Personal and Career Goals

Johnson outlines his personal goals for the upcoming season, focusing on maintaining health, enhancing his pass protection skills, and becoming a dominant three-down back. Looking ahead to his career aspirations, he aims for longevity in the NFL and envisions himself being recognized as one of the best running backs in the game's history.

David Johnson [24:18]: "My personal goal definitely is to be able to play a full season... For my career, just having a healthy, long career."

Draft Winners and Losers

Underrated Picks: Tyler Boyd and Sterling Shepard

The hosts identify Tyler Boyd and Sterling Shepard as standout winners from the draft, applauding their landing spots and potential for immediate impact in their respective teams.

Andy Holloway [36:46]: "I think Tyler Boyd is a real winner from this draft."

Controversial Selections: Corey Coleman and Michael Thomas

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the Cleveland Browns' selection of wide receiver Corey Coleman and the New Orleans Saints' acquisition of Michael Thomas. The hosts debate the potential of these picks, considering team fit and existing player dynamics.

Mike Wright [34:46]: "Michael Thomas is taking over for the combination of Colston and Coleman."

Rookie Running Backs: Kenyan Drake and Jay Ajayi

The conversation shifts to the Miami Dolphins' drafting of Kenyan Drake alongside Jay Ajayi. The hosts express differing views on whether Drake's role will complement or complicate Ajayi's prominence in the offense.

Andy Holloway [43:05]: "I believe Kenyan Drake is a phenomenal running back... he's going to grab it."

Impact on Fantasy Teams

The hosts analyze how the new draft picks will influence existing players' performance and fantasy value. They explore scenarios where new receivers like Laquan Treadwell and Josh Dockson could alter the dynamics of their teams, offering both opportunities and challenges for fantasy managers.

Andy Holloway [31:54]: "Laquan Treadwell clearly will be leading my list of highest probability for... double-digit touchdowns."

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

As the episode concludes, the hosts encourage listeners to engage with their updated rankings and utilize mock drafts to better prepare for upcoming fantasy seasons. They also tease future episodes, promising more in-depth analysis and guest interviews.

Andy Holloway [50:26]: "Now is the time to do mock drafts right after the NFL draft."

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore [07:00]: "I got so much hate on Twitter as if that was a real high odds projection because I built it up."
• Andy Holloway [17:05]: "Every time that you're down on the goal line, that you are the most effective running back in the NFL every."
• David Johnson [19:34]: "He literally knew exactly which guy was coming even if they didn't show it at first."

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast offers a comprehensive review of the 2016 NFL draft, enriched by an insightful interview with David Johnson. The hosts provide valuable analysis on draft picks, rookie prospects, and their implications for fantasy football, all while maintaining an engaging and informative dialogue. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy manager or new to the game, this episode delivers actionable insights and thoughtful commentary to enhance your fantasy football strategy.

For more detailed rankings and draft insights, visit thefantasyfootballers.com. Follow the hosts on Twitter: @JasonFFL (Jason Moore), @Andy_Holloway (Andy Holloway), and @FFHitman (Mike Wright).