Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Top 10 TE + Sleepers, Fantasy Game, News

Release Date: August 24, 2016

Introduction

In this episode of Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into the tight end (TE) position, unveiling their Top 10 Tight Ends, discussing sleeper picks, and sharing the latest fantasy football news. Additionally, they welcome special guest John Paulson from 4for4 to provide expert insights on potential late-round TE gems.

Top 10 Tight Ends

1. Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski tops the list as the premier tight end, celebrated for his big-play ability and consistent performance.

• Mike Wright highlights Gronk’s potential as a trade asset:
  “What Gronkowski also offers you...is a really, really strong trade piece in a lot of leagues.” [16:59]

• Jason Moore emphasizes Gronk’s reliability:
  “100 plus yards in five games, scored in nine games. He's the number one for a reason.” [16:59]

2. Jordan Reed

Jordan Reed secures the second spot due to his consistent target volume and connection with quarterback Niles Paul, despite injury concerns.

• Jason Moore discusses Reed’s PPR potential:
  “Jordan Reed is a PPR guy. So that's where...he can come close to Gronk.” [21:15]

3. Greg Olsen

Greg Olsen is lauded for his steady production and ascension with the Carolina Panthers, making him a reliable TE option.

• Andy Holloway shares his confidence in Olsen:
  “He plays 16 games every single year. I'm not worried about...” [23:38]

4. Travis Kelce

Travis Kelce is recognized for his elite talent and high target volume. Despite some fluctuations, his consistent output keeps him in the upper echelon.

• Mike Wright praises Kelce’s value:
  “Okay, number three, Travis Kelce. I have him at number three on my board.” [25:00]

5. Gary Barnidge

Gary Barnidge made a significant leap last season and continues to impress with his rapport with quarterback Robert Griffin III.

• Jason Moore appreciates Barnidge’s consistency:
  “He consistently got it done week after week.” [28:31]

6. Kobe Fleener

Kobe Fleener is an early off-season favorite with high target potential, though there are concerns about his season start and consistency.

• Andy Holloway expresses optimism:
  “Kobe Fleener is going to have 125 targets. And if he gets 125 targets this year, he's going to be a top five tight end.” [30:31]

7. Delanie Walker

Delanie Walker is projected to lead his team in receptions, benefiting from an improved offense and increased target volume.

• Mike Wright forecasts Walker’s growth:
  “I believe Delanie Walker will lead the team in receptions...” [31:44]

8. Zach Ertz

Zach Ertz combines high talent with heavy targeting, though quarterback uncertainties pose some risks to his touchdown numbers.

• Mike Wright discusses Ertz’s potential:
  “I think Zach Ertz is going to be a guy...1,000 yard season is a possibility.” [36:31]

9. Antonio Gates

Antonio Gates is touted as a forgotten gem with significant touchdown upside, especially given his connection with quarterback Philip Rivers.

• Mike Wright underscores Gates’ red-zone prowess:
  “You get down in the red zone...that's just maybe one or two extra looks this season.” [40:22]

10. Eric Ebron & Tyler Eifert (Tie)

Eric Ebron and Tyler Eifert round out the top ten, both offering substantial upside as potential breakout candidates, contingent on health and offensive roles.

• Andy Holloway shares concerns about Walker being drafted over proven options:
  “Walker last year had just this perfect storm...he's being drafted because of what he did last year and he's not going to replicate what he did last year.” [33:19]

Sleeper Candidates

Guest John Paulson from 4for4 joins the panel to discuss valuable late-round tight ends who could outperform their draft positions.

Dwayne Allen

• John Paulson highlights Allen’s fit within the Indianapolis offense:
  “He was in Cleveland for Kellen Winslow's Pro Bowl season...He's going to be involved, especially in the red zone.” [44:56]

Eric Ebron

• Despite a high ankle sprain, John Paulson remains optimistic about Ebron’s role:
  “With Calvin Johnson gone, they're going to have some extra red zone targets there and Ebron could step in.” [46:31]

Virgil Green

• John Paulson points to Green's athleticism and opportunity in Denver:
  “He did well in the first preseason game, so I moved him up my rankings.” [48:47]

Others Mentioned

• Zach Miller (Bears), Vance McDonald (San Francisco), and Jared Cook (Packers) are also discussed as potential sleepers with favorable opportunities.

Fantasy News

• Sammy Watkins is set to play against the Redskins after recovering from injury, raising hopes for increased target volume.
  “Sammy Watkins will play Friday against the Redskins.” [09:15]

• Eric Ebron is expected to participate in week one, providing a boost for his fantasy value.
  “Eric Ebron is expected to play week one.” [09:50]

• Tyler Boyd emerges as a strong candidate for the Bengals’ second receiver spot, potentially surpassing veterans like Will Tievit.
  “Tyler Boyd is going to be more talented...he's going to be in that conversation.” [10:26]

• Eli Rogers in Pittsburgh is gaining favor as the third receiver, overshadowing competing options like Sammy Coates and DHB.
  “Eli Rogers is ahead of Coats and DHB and he's in line to be the number three.” [11:55]

• Jarrett Aberdaris (nicknamed "Downton Abbey") is identified as a breakout candidate for Packers fans, though there's some confusion around his nickname.
  “Jarrett Aberdaris, also known as Jason's… Downton Abbey.” [12:16]

Conclusion

The hosts wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of strategic drafting at the tight end position, emphasizing the blend of proven reliability and high-upside sleepers. They tease upcoming episodes focused on sleepers, breakouts, busts, and bold predictions, encouraging listeners to stay engaged with the Fantasy Footballers community.

• Jason Moore hints at future content:
  “We will be talking sleepers, breakouts, busts, and values...you better tune in or you're not gonna know.” [53:30]

• Andy Holloway and Mike Wright encourage participation and feedback, ensuring listeners remain connected through social media and the community platform.

Notable Quotes

1. “What Gronkowski also offers you...is a really, really strong trade piece in a lot of leagues.” – Mike Wright [16:59]

2. “Jordan Reed is a PPR guy. So that's where...he can come close to Gronk.” – Jason Moore [21:15]

3. “He plays 16 games every single year. I'm not worried about...” – Andy Holloway [23:38]

4. “I think Travis Kelce is one of the best values if you're not waiting late.” – Andy Holloway [27:28]

5. “You can project him at 10, you can draft him for free and if he works out, you're a genius.” – Mike Wright [43:38]

This comprehensive overview captures the essence of the podcast episode, providing valuable insights into tight end rankings, sleeper picks, and current fantasy football news for the 2016 season. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy manager or a newcomer, the Fantasy Footballers offer strategic advice to enhance your league performance.