Fantasy Football Podcast 2017 - Early RB Rankings Part 1

Release Date: March 28, 2017

Introduction

In the March 28, 2017 episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve into the early rankings of running backs (RBs) for the upcoming 2017 fantasy football season. The episode focuses on providing comprehensive analysis, discussing player performances, potential risks, and projecting future outputs to help listeners make informed draft decisions.

Key Discussions

Raiders' Move to Las Vegas & Marshawn Lynch Rumors

The hosts begin by addressing major NFL news, notably the Oakland Raiders' relocation to Las Vegas. This move sparks speculation about Marshawn Lynch's potential return to the league.

• Andy Holloway poses the question: "Does the move to Las Vegas and the confirmation of the Raiders relocating affect the rumors surrounding Marshawn Lynch's comeback?" [05:01]

• Jason Moore expresses skepticism, lowering his probability from 40% to 15%, stating, "Marshawn Lynch has been in Canada and this does not seem to be a priority." [07:00]

• Mike Wright remains doubtful, maintaining his low probability estimate at approximately 0.5%.

Josh Gordon's Reinstatement

The conversation shifts to Josh Gordon, who has applied for reinstatement to the NFL after serving a suspension.

• Andy Holloway highlights Gordon's improved physical condition, "Josh Gordon is looking very fit and has applied for reinstatement." [08:37]

• Jason Moore remains cautious, emphasizing Gordon's history: "He looks muscular, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's ready to run." [09:16]

• Ultimately, the consensus is that Gordon is not likely to impact the 2017 fantasy season significantly.

Kelvin Benjamin & DeMarco Murray Updates

The hosts discuss Kelvin Benjamin's contract extension with the Panthers and DeMarco Murray's performance with the Titans.

• Andy Holloway notes Benjamin's high upside despite last season’s inconsistencies, "With Kelvin Benjamin's size, he's an always-present touchdown threat inside the 20." [09:50]

• DeMarco Murray is praised for his reliability and versatility, serving as a critical component of the Titans' offense. Jason Moore underscores Murray's dual-threat nature: "He is an excellent, top pass-catching running back." [35:55]

Early Running Back Rankings

The core of the episode revolves around the hosts' consensus rankings for the top 10 running backs. Each ranked player is analyzed for their past performance, current team dynamics, and potential future output.

1. Le'Veon Bell (Pittsburgh Steelers)

Le'Veon Bell tops the rankings due to his exceptional performance when on the field.

• Andy Holloway states, "Le'Veon Bell is the GOAT when it comes to running backs. His average of 161.6 yards from scrimmage per game in 2016 is the second-best in history." [20:40]

• Jason Moore adds, "He had more yards on the ground than David Johnson despite playing four fewer games." [18:39]

• Mike Wright praises Bell's reliability, noting, "He doesn't need outrageous rushing numbers because his reception totals are so high." [20:35]

Pros:

• High yardage from scrimmage.
• Dual-threat as a runner and receiver.
• Consistent performance when active.

Cons:

• Injury history and missed games.
• Uncertainty regarding long-term contract status.

2. David Johnson (Arizona Cardinals)

David Johnson secures the second spot with his impressive all-around abilities.

• Andy Holloway highlights Johnson's versatility: "He can catch the ball, run the ball, and score, making him a key cog in the Arizona offense." [22:44]

• Jason Moore emphasizes his durability and efficiency: "He's matchup-proof and one of the safest running backs in dynasty leagues." [23:45]

Pros:

• Strong receiving skills complement his rushing.
• High touchdown potential.
• Reliable workload and durability.

Cons:

• Potential regression in touchdown numbers.
• Contract considerations for dynasty leagues.

3. Ezekiel Elliott (Dallas Cowboys)

Ezekiel Elliott rounds out the top three as a newly drafted superstar.

• Mike Wright shares his historical perspective: "Players who have exceeded 1600 yards in their rookie year often regress, but Elliott is expected to have another monster season." [26:41]

• Jason Moore believes Elliott will maintain high touchdown numbers: "I expect Zeke to have the most touchdowns among these top three." [27:16]

Pros:

• Explosive rookie season performance.
• High touchdown upside.
• Integral part of a strong Dallas offense.

Cons:

• Historical tendency for regression after an outstanding rookie year.
• Team offensive dynamics may shift.

4. Le'Shawn McCoy (Buffalo Bills)

Le'Shawn McCoy is favored for his consistent production despite injury concerns.

• Jason Moore praises McCoy's career stability: "He's never been a bad running back and consistently serves as an RB1 or RB2." [30:02]

• Andy Holloway counters injury perceptions: "He's played most games each season and remains a reliable fantasy asset." [30:02]

Pros:

• Experienced and proven performer.
• High volume of touches.
• Reliable touchdown scorer.

Cons:

• Minor injury concerns.
• Usage may fluctuate with team dynamics.

5. DeMarco Murray (Tennessee Titans)

DeMarco Murray is lauded for his pivotal role in the Titans' offense.

• Jason Moore describes Murray as a dual-threat: "He catches passes and scores consistently, making him a great RB option." [35:55]

• Mike Wright emphasizes Murray's efficiency: "He is an excellent, top pass-catching running back who is always involved when needed." [36:07]

Pros:

• High usage in both rushing and receiving.
• Red zone threat with numerous touchdowns.
• Consistent performance with minimal injury risk.

Cons:

• Potential competition from Derrick Henry.
• Team offensive effectiveness can impact his output.

6. Devonta Freeman (Atlanta Falcons)

Devonta Freeman impresses with his dominant 2016 performance.

• Jason Moore acknowledges Freeman's evolution: "Phil Freeman is the hardest working guy and sets the standard for work ethic in Atlanta." [38:44]

• Mike Wright raises concerns about offensive changes: "Kyle Shanahan is gone, and Patrick DeMarco is now with Shady in Buffalo, affecting Freeman's role." [39:24]

Pros:

• High receptions and versatile role.
• Young and durable.
• Integral part of a strong Falcons offense.

Cons:

• Potential regression in receiving targets.
• Offensive scheme changes may impact usage.

7. Jordan Howard (Chicago Bears)

Jordan Howard is recognized for his impressive rookie performance and potential future growth.

• Andy Holloway notes Howard's opportunity to become the face of the Bears' backfield: "He can be a top 10 back even on a struggling team." [42:11]

• Mike Wright is cautious about his red zone efficiency: "He had only six touchdowns, with most concentrated in a few games." [43:48]

Pros:

• High yards per carry.
• Volume of touches in a favorable offensive line.
• Potential to lead a new offensive direction.

Cons:

• Inconsistent touchdown production.
• Playing for a team with poor offensive support.

8. Mark Ingram (New Orleans Saints)

Mark Ingram surprises by breaking into the top 10 despite last season's unpredictability.

• Andy Holloway expresses frustration over Ingram's inconsistent usage: "He had five games with under 10 carries, hurting fantasy owners." [46:17]

• Jason Moore credits the Saints' strong run-blocking and potential removal of Tim Hightower: "New Orleans has one of the best run-blocking lines, making Ingram a valuable asset if Hightower is out." [48:36]

Pros:

• Strong team run-blocking.
• Efficient yards per carry.
• Increased role potential with Hightower's reduced presence.

Cons:

• Inconsistent usage leading to variable fantasy output.
• Dependence on team offensive strategies.

9. Todd Gurley (Los Angeles Rams)

Todd Gurley enters the rankings with renewed optimism despite last season's inefficiencies.

• Andy Holloway cites improvements in coaching and offensive line: "Sean McVay builds offenses around player strengths, and the offensive line has been strengthened." [53:09]

• Jason Moore believes Gurley will finish as a low-end RB1: "He had a strong start but struggled with efficiency over the last 24 games." [55:37]

Pros:

• High volume of touches.
• Talented and proven performer.
• Improved team dynamics with new coaching staff.

Cons:

• Previous inefficiency with high touches.
• Potential regression if coaching changes don't favor his running style.

10. Melvin Gordon (Cleveland Browns)

Melvin Gordon rounds out the top 10 with his consistent performance and role in the Browns' offense.

• Mike Wright prefers Gordon over Gurley, citing a better offensive environment: "Melvin Gordon is in a much better offensive setup compared to Gurley." [58:02]

• Jason Moore highlights Gordon's touchdown potential: "He went from no touchdowns in his rookie season to numerous now, making him a valuable RB." [59:07]

Pros:

• Consistent workhorse with high touch volume.
• Strong touchdown upside.
• Integral part of the Browns' offense.

Cons:

• Efficiency concerns similar to Gurley.
• Team offensive struggles could impact performance.

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore on Le'Veon Bell: "Le'Veon Bell is the goat when it comes to running backs. He has more yards on the ground than David Johnson despite playing four fewer games." [18:39]

• Andy Holloway on David Johnson: "He can catch the ball, run the ball, and score, making him a key cog in the Arizona offense." [22:44]

• Mike Wright on Ezekiel Elliott: "In standard formats, he loses a little bit because he's not going to get the 80 receptions like DJ and Lev Bell." [27:16]

• Jason Moore on DeMarco Murray: "He is an excellent, top pass-catching running back who is always involved when needed." [36:07]

• Andy Holloway on Todd Gurley: "I think you're going to get hot fire, you're going to get lowside." [54:56]

Conclusions

The Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides a thorough and analytical approach to early RB rankings, emphasizing the importance of consistent performance, versatility, and team dynamics. While top players like Le'Veon Bell and David Johnson lead the pack with their dual-threat capabilities, reliable veterans like Le'Shawn McCoy and DeMarco Murray offer stability. Emerging stars such as Ezekiel Elliott and Jordan Howard bring high upside, though they come with potential risks.

Listeners are encouraged to consider their league formats, team needs, and player-specific factors when utilizing these rankings for their drafts. The hosts stress the importance of equipping oneself with comprehensive information to make strategic decisions rather than simply following rankings.

What's Next

In subsequent episodes, the Fantasy Footballers plan to delve deeper into wide receiver rankings and continue their analysis of running backs, adjusting for new information and further data insights. They also promise to explore the impact of NFL team changes, such as the Raiders' relocation, on fantasy player values.

For more insights and detailed rankings, listeners are encouraged to visit fantasyfootballers.com and join the community at jointhefoot.com. Follow the Fantasy Footballers on Twitter at @theffballers for the latest updates and discussions.