Fantasy Footballers Podcast 2016 - Mock Draft Episode! Release Date: June 16, 2016
In this engaging episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into a comprehensive mock draft session. Aimed at helping listeners refine their draft strategies, the trio navigates through player rankings, positional value, and late-round gambles with their characteristic blend of expertise and camaraderie.
1. Mock Draft Kickoff
The episode begins with light-hearted banter among the hosts, setting a relaxed yet focused tone for the mock draft. Jason Moore emphasizes the importance of drafting as a cohesive unit, highlighting moments of humor that ease into the strategic discussions.
Jason Moore [02:48]: "We're gonna be using fantasydraftwizard.com making the decisions as a unit, as a group, as the fantasy footballers, and walking you through some of our thought process."
2. Draft Position and Early Picks
Drafting from the ninth position in a 12-team league, the hosts discuss the implications of their spot on the Snake draft format. They analyze the significance of early-round picks and the scarcity of elite running backs in a standard scoring format.
Mike Wright underscores the value of securing reliable running backs early, especially in standard leagues where touchdowns hold substantial weight.
Mike Wright [08:33]: "In a standard league, specifically where we've got two running backs, two wide receivers and a flex, the running back position is a little bit more scarce."
3. Running Back Strategies
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to debating the merits of various running backs like Dion Lewis and Jeremy Langford. The hosts weigh the risks and potentials of each, considering factors like injury history and team offensive dynamics.
Andy Holloway [07:25]: "Lewis got to get a bump."
The discussion evolves into a broader analysis of running back selection, with Jason Moore advocating for Mark Ingram over higher-risk options due to his consistent performance and touchdown potential.
Jason Moore [14:11]: "I think Mark Ingram was the guy that kind of jumps off to me as a first-round running back."
4. Wide Receiver Considerations
Transitioning to wide receivers, the hosts express concerns over the depth and consistency of the position. They discuss the challenge of finding top-tier wide receivers as the draft progresses, underscoring the importance of balancing running back and wide receiver selections.
Andy Holloway [17:49]: "If this was my team, I would go with a wide receiver here."
They explore options like Julian Edelman and Eric Decker, debating their reliability and potential to anchor the wide receiver corps.
Jason Moore [27:06]: "I'm looking for the same. Who's safer than Edelman and Decker from a reception and a red zone target standpoint."
5. Tight End and Quarterback Picks
As the draft moves into deeper rounds, the focus shifts to tight ends and quarterbacks. The hosts deliberate on the timing of these positions, contemplating whether to secure a tight end early or wait for value in later rounds. The discussion also touches on the viability of drafting quarterbacks like Tony Romo and Matthew Stafford in the tenth round, evaluating their upside against injury risks.
Mike Wright [32:32]: "Tyler Eiferd is the pick right here versus a fourth wide receiver or a fourth running back."
6. Finalizing the Roster
In the concluding rounds, Andy Holloway and Mike Wright assess the remaining roster spots, considering late-round gems and potential breakout players. The episode wraps up with a reflection on the team's strength and the strategic choices made throughout the draft process.
Jason Moore [50:15]: "If we have taken, like, I don't know, desean Jackson, Jeremy Macklin or something, and you look at this team, you don't really feel comfortable. But when you slide in guys like Deckard and Edelman to supplement the powerhouse running backs, you feel kind of comfortable."
7. Final Thoughts and Takeaways
The hosts conclude by affirming their satisfaction with the drafted team, emphasizing the importance of a balanced roster and the foundation laid during the mock draft. They encourage listeners to trust their unique draft strategies and adapt based on league dynamics.
Mike Wright [50:43]: "Build your foundation. This is a good foundation team where we can go and win a championship."
Notable Quotes:
- Jason Moore [04:48]: "It's always fun to be able to do like live research on the air because every mock draft you do, we encourage our listeners to mock draft everyone."
- Andy Holloway [23:29]: "That's what we'll have to do. You'll have to eat some bananas on the air."
- Mike Wright [46:22]: "If he plays a full 16, I've got a starter for 16 games."
Key Takeaways:
- Positional Value: Emphasis on securing running backs early in standard leagues due to their scarcity and high touchdown potential.
- Flexibility: Encouragement to balance between running backs and wide receivers, adapting based on the draft flow.
- Late-Round Gems: Exploration of late-round options with high upside, such as Dante Moncrief and Torrey Smith, to bolster the roster without overreaching.
- Quarterback Strategy: Advocating for drafting quarterbacks in later rounds to maximize value, selecting reliable studs without sacrificing early-round picks on other positions.
This mock draft episode offers invaluable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts, blending strategic analysis with the hosts' trademark humor and teamwork. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newcomer, the Fantasy Footballers provide actionable strategies to optimize your draft and build a championship-worthy team.