Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary
Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Rookie Rundown QB & WR, News, Mailbag
Release Date: February 2, 2016

Troubling Player Performances from Last Season

Andrew Luck's Decline (02:07 - 05:04)
The hosts express significant concern over Andrew Luck's performance. Jason Moore criticizes Luck's season, stating,
“when he played in seven games and he threw 12 interceptions and he had a completion percentage that dropped six and a half percent to 55%, I should be a little concerned.” (02:07). Despite Luck being a highly regarded quarterback, his struggles—particularly his interception rate and decreased completion percentage—raise doubts about his consistency and reliability for fantasy purposes.

Ryan Tannehill's Underperformance (05:04 - 07:27)
Ryan Tannehill is highlighted as another quarterback with disappointing metrics. Andy Holloway shares a crucial stat,
“Ryan Tannehill was 21st. Only through for 7.1 yards per attempt.” (04:23), indicating a lackluster performance that fails to meet expectations. The discussion underscores Tannehill's inability to significantly improve his yards per attempt, contributing to uncertainty about his future prospects in fantasy leagues.

Matt Ryan's Consistent Disappointment (07:27 - 08:50)
Matt Ryan is singled out for his underwhelming season. Mike Wright notes,
“Matt Ryan had a good game here and there but for the most part he was just very disappointing.” (06:33), emphasizing his inconsistency despite having strong elements like Julio Jones and a promising offensive scheme. This persistent disappointment positions Ryan as a potential late-round value rather than a reliable starter.

Listener Review

Fan Feedback (09:00 - 10:00)
The hosts read a review from listener Kid Beyond, praising the podcast for its in-depth postseason analysis and its impact on his fantasy success:
“Thanks to the fantasy footballers and their mighty Foot clan, I finished first place in one league and third in my second league.” (09:27). This testimonial highlights the podcast's value in providing actionable insights and fostering a dedicated fantasy football community.

News and Notes

Calvin Johnson's Potential Retirement (11:03 - 12:32)
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to discussing Calvin "Megatron" Johnson's rumored retirement. Mike Wright explains,
“He put notice into the team. He said, it's official. I am retiring.” (11:36), exploring the implications for the Detroit Lions and fantasy managers alike. The conversation speculates on potential replacements, such as Marvin Jones, and the strategic shifts the Lions might undertake in response to Johnson's departure.

Other NFL Updates (12:32 - 18:00)
The hosts touch on various NFL news, including tight end Scott Chandler's potential move to the Jets and the free agency landscape for running backs. Mike Wright mentions,
“Alfred Morris maybe lands in New York.” (15:18), while discussing the Jets' cap space issues and possible solutions. Additionally, Travis Kelsey's new reality show and contract details are discussed, highlighting his rising profile both on and off the field.

Rookie Rundown: Quarterbacks

Jameis Winston vs. Marcus Mariota (18:00 - 26:00)
The discussion centers on the rookie quarterbacks, Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota, evaluating their first-year performances and future projections.

• Jameis Winston: Jason Moore praises Winston's turnaround, noting,
  “Jameis Winston finished with over 4,000 yards. Great. I mean, that is, that is historically great numbers for a quarterback.” (20:00). Despite a rocky start, Winston's late-season improvement positions him as a potential QB1 for the upcoming season.

• Marcus Mariota: In contrast, Marcus Mariota's limited games (12) are analyzed, with Moore stating,
  “He had a better quarterback rating. He had a better completion percentage. It’s hard to choose between those guys because I like Mike Evans a whole lot more than I like the weapon.” (23:10). The hosts acknowledge Mariota's triple-threat capabilities but remain cautious about his consistency.

Consensus and Projections:
The hosts lean towards Winston becoming a QB1, with Andy Holloway predicting similar fantasy numbers for both quarterbacks next year but favoring Winston due to his offensive framework.
“I think Winston is a quarterback one next year.” (22:52). The unanimous agreement among the hosts supports Winston's higher draft value over Mariota.

Rookie Rundown: Wide Receivers

Amari Cooper (26:00 - 31:18)
Amari Cooper receives high praise for his rookie season despite limited playtime. Andy Holloway highlights his ability to generate yards after contact, stating,
“He led the entire league as far as rookies and yards after contact.” (30:19). The consensus is that Cooper will see improved performance next season, making him a top fantasy wide receiver.

Kevin White and Rashad Perriman (31:18 - 35:55)
Kevin White is considered a hot take, with Andy Holloway expecting him to double his production similar to Tyler Lockett, though Jason Moore and Mike Wright express some skepticism about his immediate impact.
“I expect him to, other than be able to suit up, tying his shoes with both of these, putting on the helmet... there's so little to be able to bank on you.” (32:04).

Rashad Perriman is viewed more favorably due to his opportunity with the Ravens, though concerns about Joe Flacco's recovery remain.
“Perriman will have the opportunity, which is even more important than talent.” (35:55).

Devonte Parker and Nelson Aguilar (35:55 - 43:14)
Devonte Parker is seen as a promising breakout candidate with physical attributes comparable to Demaryius Thomas, despite limited playtime last season.
“He could end up becoming a wide receiver one for the team and have huge blow-up potential.” (38:33).

Nelson Aguilar, however, garners mixed reviews. While Andy Holloway appreciates his production within limited targets, Mike Wright draws comparisons to Marvin Jones, suggesting potential for growth.
“He's more like a Marvin Jones to me.” (44:53).

Philip Dorsett and Others (43:14 - 58:00)
Philip Dorsett is labeled a wild card, with comparisons to John Brown's rookie season. The uncertainty around his role in the Colts' offense makes him a speculative pick.
“He's a massively talented guy and he could thrive, he could explode.” (49:18).

Other receivers like Tyler Lockett receive commendations for their special teams performance and potential offensive role expansion.
“Tyler Lockett takes a step up this next year and finishes better than he did this year.” (53:50).

Mailbag

Keeper Selections and Running Backs (58:00 - 70:00)
Listener Matt from Athens, Ohio, shares his successful strategy of prioritizing tight ends, leading to championship wins in his leagues. The hosts discuss the value of securing reliable tight ends like David Johnson over more risky options like Thomas Rawls.
“If both guys have the opportunity, David Johnson was a physical freak and Thomas Rawls went undrafted.” (66:51).

Mike Wright emphasizes the importance of proactive drafting, arguing against the “wait and see” approach:
“You can't wait and see. You have to be proactive.” (54:57).

Tight End Strategies:
The conversation shifts to the significance of drafting upper-tier tight ends early. Andy Holloway encourages securing consistent performers, especially in smaller leagues where positional advantages are crucial.
“I love grabbing them in the fourth or fifth round.” (68:30).

Closing Remarks

The hosts wrap up by encouraging listeners to submit questions for future episodes and hint at upcoming discussions on tight ends and running backs. They reiterate the podcast's focus on actionable fantasy football insights and community engagement.

Notable Quotes:

• “when he played in seven games and he threw 12 interceptions and he had a completion percentage that dropped six and a half percent to 55%, I should be a little concerned.” – Jason Moore (02:07)

• “Ryan Tannehill was 21st. Only through for 7.1 yards per attempt.” – Andy Holloway (04:23)

• “Amari Cooper will be the number one fantasy.” – Andy Holloway (31:44)

• “You can't wait and see. You have to be proactive.” – Mike Wright (54:57)

• “I was in love with Latavius Murray for next year.” – Andy Holloway (27:27)

This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of last season's underperforming players, in-depth rookie evaluations, and valuable NFL updates. The hosts offer actionable projections and strategic advice, making it an essential listen for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to optimize their upcoming drafts and in-season management.