Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Early WR Part 2 + NFL.com's Matt Harmon

Release Date: April 7, 2016

Introduction

In the April 7, 2016 episode of the "Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast," hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright continue their comprehensive analysis of wide receivers (WRs) for the upcoming fantasy football season. This episode marks the second part of their early WR rankings and features a special guest appearance by Matt Harmon from NFL.com, renowned for his deep dive into player performances and potential.

Continuation of WR Rankings (Numbers 9-16)

The primary focus of this episode is the continuation of the hosts' WR rankings, covering positions nine through sixteen. Building on the previous discussion where they ranked wide receivers one through eight, the trio delves into nuanced evaluations of each player, considering factors such as performance metrics, injury history, team dynamics, and potential for fantasy points.

1. Steve Smith Sr. (#9)

The episode opens with a discussion about Steve Smith Sr., who the hosts debate whether he deserves a higher ranking. Mike Wright humorously mentions his own room remodeled by memorabilia from pristineauction.com, setting a lighthearted tone ([00:00]).

Jason Moore expresses skepticism about Smith’s return, stating, “I don’t see Steve Smith doing anything this year” ([04:02]). Andy Holloway counters by highlighting Smith’s determination despite a severe double Achilles tendon rupture ([05:32]). The consensus is that while Smith is a dedicated player, concerns about his injury and team reliance keep him lower in the rankings.

2. Allen Robinson (#9)

Moving to number nine, Allen Robinson is lauded for his impressive stats last season—80 catches, 1,400 yards, and 14 touchdowns. Andy emphasizes Robinson’s ability to make critical plays, especially in the red zone, but acknowledges some hesitancy due to potential regression in touchdown numbers. Jason notes, “I think he’s a little bit overdrafted,” suggesting a projection of around nine touchdowns this year ([11:01]).

3. Alshon Jeffery (#10)

At number ten, Alshon Jeffery is recognized for his dual potential as a high-reward but injury-prone player. Jeffery’s breakout season with nearly 100 catches and over 1,400 yards is praised, yet the hosts caution about his consistency and durability. Jason questions his placement: “Why is Jeffrey sitting here at 10 when a guy like Mike Evans is up at 7?” ([13:15]). The discussion centers on Jeffery's role in the Bears’ offense and his ability to stay healthy to reach his high potential.

4. Jordy Nelson (#11)

Jordy Nelson at number eleven receives enthusiastic support from Mike Wright, who underscores Nelson’s consistent performance despite being undervalued. Nelson’s previous season with 98 receptions, 1,500 yards, and 13 touchdowns positions him as a top-tier WR. Matt Harmon adds that Nelson’s rapport with quarterback Aaron Rodgers enhances his fantasy value ([19:30]).

5. Keenan Allen (#12)

Keenan Allen is ranked twelfth, with a strong emphasis on his high target volume, especially in PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues. Andy highlights Allen’s ability to maintain a high average catch rate, while Jason discusses his role in the Chargers' offense and potential for around 100 receptions ([24:20]). The hosts agree that Allen is a reliable PPR asset, though his yards per catch may remain modest.

6. Sammy Watkins (#13)

Sammy Watkins garners attention at number thirteen, sparking a spirited debate among the hosts. Jason Moore passionately defends Watkins, citing his elite talent and potential for a breakout season: “I don’t want us to forget that he’s had a couple injuries that were a little bit more fluky” ([27:32]). However, Mike Wright counters with concerns about Watkins’ opportunities in a run-focused Buffalo offense and his consistency, ultimately reflecting mixed opinions on his draft value.

7. Demaryius Thomas (#14)

Demaryius Thomas is placed at number fourteen despite a somewhat disappointing previous season with 105 receptions, 1,300 yards, and six touchdowns. Jason criticizes the performance, noting, “That was a terrible year” ([35:26]), but Andy argues that Thomas’s elite talent keeps him valuable. The hosts acknowledge Thomas’s ability to produce big numbers when healthy and with strong quarterback support.

8. Golden Tate (#15) and Amari Cooper (#16)

Golden Tate ranks fifteenth, recognized for his high reception volumes but tempered by lower yards per catch and touchdown potential. Jason describes Tate as a volume receiver, particularly valuable in PPR leagues ([39:00]).

Amari Cooper completes the top sixteen at number sixteen. The hosts express concerns about Cooper’s consistency and the Raiders’ offensive strategy under Jack Del Rio. Jason points out that Cooper may see a similar target volume as his rookie year, while Mike Wright remains optimistic about Cooper’s conditioning and target consistency ([42:37]).

Insights from Matt Harmon

The latter part of the episode features Matt Harmon, who provides expert analysis on lower-ranked WRs and potential breakout candidates:

• Dante Moncrief: Harmon praises Moncrief’s development as a route runner and his increasing professionalism, suggesting significant growth potential in the upcoming season ([46:00]).

• Doug Baldwin vs. Tyler Lockett: Harmon debates whether Doug Baldwin can sustain his performance post a stellar season contingent on Russell Wilson’s quarterback excellence. He compares Baldwin to Tyler Lockett, noting that both could offer comparable target volumes and suggests choosing based on draft value and team context ([48:37]).

• Detroit Lions’ Golden Tate and Marvin Jones: Harmon discusses the Lions’ transition after Calvin Johnson’s retirement, expressing skepticism about Tate stepping into a full WR1 role and highlighting Marvin Jones’s strengths as a reliable pass-catcher. He advises caution in expecting Tate to replicate Johnson’s production ([52:37]).

• Rookies with High Potential: Harmon identifies Laquan Treadwell and Josh Dockson as rookies poised to make immediate impacts, capable of challenging for 100+ targets in favorable team situations ([56:20]).

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with the hosts reiterating the depth of their WR rankings and the importance of considering individual league dynamics and draft strategies. They emphasize the value of equipping listeners with comprehensive information to make informed decisions tailored to their specific fantasy teams.

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore on Steve Smith: “I don’t see Steve Smith doing anything this year” ([04:02]).

• Matt Harmon on Doug Baldwin: “If the Seahawks offense continues down that path, I would expect Baldwin to continue to post, like wide receiver two numbers” ([48:37]).

• Matt Harmon on Rookies: “I look at a guy like Laquan Treadwell, I think can make an immediate” ([56:20]).

• Andy Holloway on WR Rankings: “We're back. The three of us have returned plus one today” ([00:57]).

Final Notes

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of wide receiver rankings, complemented by expert insights from Matt Harmon. Whether you're strategizing for PPR or standard leagues, the hosts provide valuable perspectives to enhance your fantasy football draft and season management.

For more detailed rankings and analyses, visit their website at thefantasyfootballers.com and follow them on Twitter @theFFBallers.