Fantasy Footballers Podcast 2017 - Early WR Rankings Part 1

Release Date: April 4, 2017
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

Introduction and Opening Banter

The episode kicks off with light-hearted banter among the hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright, as they joke about April Fools' Day pranks and tease each other about social media antics. This playful exchange sets an engaging and entertaining tone for the episode.

Jason Moore [00:52]: "Are you telling me that we are already in draft month?"

Listener Review: Emphasizing Respect and Inclusivity

The hosts share a heartfelt review from listener Isabel Green, praising the Fantasy Footballers for maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment, especially towards women. Isabel contrasts their approach with other sports radio shows that often engage in body shaming and degrading commentary.

Isabel Green [04:14]: "It's pure football. Pure fun and suitable for the whole family. It's an absolute pleasure to listen to every day."

Andy and Jason echo Isabel's sentiments, emphasizing their commitment to making the show family-friendly and free from disrespectful discourse.

News Segment: Tony Romo's Retirement and DeAndre Hopkins' Situation

The hosts delve into significant NFL news, notably Tony Romo's retirement from playing to pursue a broadcasting career with CBS. They discuss the potential impact of Romo’s departure on DeAndre Hopkins of the Houston Texans.

Jason Moore [09:18]: "Tony Romo has retired or will be retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons pursuing a career in broadcasting with CBS."

Mike Wright highlights Romo's impressive career stats, suggesting his legacy could rival Hall of Famers despite not winning a Super Bowl.

Mike Wright [09:30]: "It's very possible [Romo] could make the Hall of Fame."

The conversation pivots to DeAndre Hopkins' future with the Texans, exploring his dependency on the quarterback situation. They speculate on possible quarterback changes and how that could affect Hopkins' fantasy relevance.

Jason Moore [11:05]: "DeAndre Hopkins is in a situation very similar to Larry Fitzgerald a few years back... If Houston doesn't figure it out now, maybe they sign Jay Cutler and everything changes."

Andy admits an initial inaccuracy regarding Hopkins' performance with backup quarterback Brandon Whedon, promptly correcting it to ensure factual accuracy.

Andy Holloway [16:17]: "What I just said about the Andre Hopkins was 100% inaccurate... Here are the true numbers for DeAndre Hopkins with Brandon Whedon 8 for 94 and 7 for 117 and a touchdown."

Early Wide Receiver Rankings Overview

Shifting focus to the main topic, the hosts present their early consensus rankings for wide receivers, providing a comprehensive analysis of the top 10 picks based on their research and evaluation of player performances.

Detailed Wide Receiver Rankings

1. Antonio Brown – Consensus #1

   • Performance Highlights: Over the last four years, Brown has consistently been a top performer, finishing first or third in fantasy rankings multiple times.
   • Consistency and Upside: Despite occasional injuries, Brown remains a reliable top-five wide receiver with minimal risk.
   • Insights: His ability to dominate regardless of offensive fluctuations cements his #1 spot.

   Jason Moore [18:18]: "Number one, Antonio Brown, our consensus number one wide receiver, 29 years old. Unbelievable."

2. Odell Beckham Jr. – Consensus #2

   • Performance Highlights: Beckham has maintained elite performance since his debut, with minimal seasons outside the top five.
   • Dynamic Playstyle: His ability to make big plays and consistent target acquisition make him a safe and high-reward pick.
   • Potential Risks: Questions about quarterback stability but Beckham’s versatility mitigates this concern.

   Jason Moore [22:52]: "Odell Beckham Jr. is a little bit of a headache at times but he gets it done. He is a player where his quarterback... is locked and loaded."

3. Julio Jones – Consensus #3

   • Performance Highlights: Julio Jones boasts record-breaking yardage and consistent top-tier performances.
   • Injury Concerns: Frequent minor injuries make him riskier despite his high upside.
   • Consistency: Despite frustrations from missed games, his overall performance keeps him high in rankings.

   Jason Moore [23:41]: "Julio Jones was right there with him [Antonio Brown]. He is far riskier to me than these other two guys."

4. A.J. Green – Consensus #4

   • Performance Highlights: Green remains a reliable target when healthy, with strong seasonal performances.
   • Injury History: Occasional injuries have slightly dampened his ranking.
   • Team Dynamics: The stability of his quarterback play supports his high ranking.

   Jason Moore [27:33]: "A.J. Green... stability at the quarterback position."

5. Jordy Nelson – Consensus #5

   • Performance Highlights: Nelson has the second-most receiving touchdowns since 2011, showcasing his scoring prowess.
   • Team Support: Aaron Rodgers' expertise has enabled Nelson to thrive, though expectations remain high.
   • Regression Potential: Historical data suggests possible regression after peak performance years, but Nelson's situation remains solid.

   Andy Holloway [32:13]: "Since 2011, Jordy Nelson has the second most receiving touchdowns in the league."

6. Mike Evans – Consensus #6

   • Performance Highlights: Evans has shown consistent high performance, particularly benefiting from strong offensive team dynamics.
   • Offensive Shifts: Changes in the Tampa Bay defense have influenced his production, leading to some inconsistency.
   • Potential for Regression: Historical trends indicate possible downturns after peak seasons, making him a solid but not elite pick.

   Jason Moore [35:04]: "Mike Evans does not have Aaron Rodgers throwing the ball... he still ended up beating Mike Evans out in points per game."

7. Dez Bryant – Consensus #7

   • Performance Highlights: Bryant has demonstrated elite performance when healthy, particularly in the red zone.
   • Team Reconstruction: Dallas Cowboys' defensive struggles could impact his QB play and, consequently, his fantasy value.
   • Injury Concerns: Past injuries have tempered his ranking despite his high upside.

   Jason Moore [40:21]: "Dez Bryant enjoys the end zone. He really does."

8. Michael Thomas – Consensus #8

   • Performance Highlights: Thomas has shown potential as a top-tier receiver, especially with Drew Brees’ precise passing.
   • Rookie Development: Being a rookie, his long-term consistency remains to be fully proven.
   • Team Support: Continued support from a stable quarterback situation enhances his potential.

   Jason Moore [44:00]: "Michael Thomas, huge, not guaranteed. That being said, I believe... he can be in the top five."

9. Ty Hilton – Consensus #9

   • Performance Highlights: Hilton offers reliable weekly targets and consistent production, though he hasn’t reached the elite threshold.
   • Team Role: As a primary target in the offense, he provides steady points without the high volatility of top-tier receivers.
   • Consistency: His consistent week-to-week performance makes him a dependable pick.

   Jason Moore [49:20]: "Look, Ty Hilton, number nine feels fine."

10. Amari Cooper – Consensus #10

    • Performance Highlights: Cooper has demonstrated bursts of high performance, especially early in seasons.
    • Volatility: Mid-season performance can be inconsistent, making him a riskier late-round pick.
    • Potential for Growth: If he secures a more stable offensive role, his rankings could improve.

    Jason Moore [55:07]: "Amari Cooper is the type where when you own him, you just don't know if you're going to get one of those games where he just doesn't show up."

Humorous Interlude: Jersey Number Debate

In an entertaining detour, the hosts engage in a humorous debate about jersey numbers, specifically focusing on Amari Cooper’s choice of number 89. They joke about Jared Cook's attempt to acquire Cooper's number, adding levity to the episode.

Jason Moore [59:14]: "Jared Cook trying to steal his fire."

Final Thoughts and Teasers for Future Episodes

Wrapping up, the hosts hint at continuing their comprehensive wide receiver rankings in future episodes, inviting listeners to stay tuned for deeper analyses and additional player evaluations.

Jason Moore [61:04]: "Stay tuned to the Fantasy Footballers and subscribe. Leave us reviews on iTunes."

Key Takeaways

• Top-Tier Reliability: Antonio Brown and Odell Beckham Jr. remain the most reliable and high-upside picks in early WR rankings.
• Emerging Players: Julio Jones and AJ Green offer significant upside but come with injury and consistency risks.
• Consistent Performers: Jordy Nelson and Mike Evans provide dependable performances with moderate risk.
• Rising Stars: Michael Thomas and Ty Hilton show promise as dependable target receivers with growth potential.
• Risk vs. Reward: The hosts emphasize balancing high-reward players with those who offer consistent weekly performance to build a robust fantasy roster.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Listener Praise:

  Isabel Green [04:14]: "It's pure football. Pure fun and suitable for the whole family."

• Tony Romo's Retirement Impact:

  Jason Moore [09:18]: "Tony Romo has retired or will be retiring from the NFL after 13 seasons pursuing a career in broadcasting with CBS."

• Wide Receiver Rankings Highlight:

  Jason Moore [22:18]: "Number one, Antonio Brown, our consensus number one wide receiver, 29 years old. Unbelievable."

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides a thorough and insightful analysis of early wide receiver rankings, blending expert opinions with engaging discussions and humor. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy player or new to the game, the hosts offer valuable perspectives to help you navigate the fantasy football landscape and build a winning team.