Fantasy Football Podcast 2017 - Free Agent Frenzy!
Fantasy Footballers Podcast
Release Date: March 9, 2017
Introduction
In this exhilarating episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright dive deep into the bustling free agent period, analyzing key signings, their implications for various NFL teams, and the ripple effects on fantasy football strategies. The trio brings their signature blend of expert analysis, strong opinions, and actionable advice, ensuring listeners are well-equipped to navigate the free agency frenzy.
Free Agency Signings Overview
Kenny Stills Joins the Cleveland Browns
One of the episode's central discussions revolves around Kenny Stills signing a lucrative three-year, $32 million contract with the Cleveland Browns. The Fantasy Footballers critically assess this move, questioning the value based on Stills' recent performance statistics.
Jason Moore [05:00]: "He's pooping all over him. It was a trap."
Key Points:
- Performance Analysis: Stills has been ranked 77th in receptions and 57th in receiving yards over the past two seasons, with only one 100-yard game.
- Fantasy Implications: The hosts express skepticism about Stills' fantasy ceiling, estimating it between the 20-24 range, attributing his signing more to his potential than proven performance.
- Impact Comparison: Andy Holloway draws a comparison between Stills and Antonio Brown to highlight concerns about Stills' immediate fantasy value.
Andy Holloway [08:13]: "I completely agree and I don't think he'll get to that ceiling. All the love that we give Kenny Stills is really more of a talent."
Brandon Marshall Signs with the New York Giants
Another high-profile signing discussed is Brandon Marshall's two-year, $12 million contract with the New York Giants. The hosts evaluate how this move affects Odell Beckham Jr. and the overall Giants' offensive dynamics.
Jason Moore [10:38]: "Brandon Marshall lands in New York."
Key Points:
- Team Dynamics: Marshall is expected to coexist with Odell Beckham Jr., potentially maintaining Beckham's target share without significant dilution.
- Fantasy Impact: The consensus among the hosts is that Beckham remains a top-tier fantasy receiver, with Marshall serving as a valuable complementary asset rather than a direct threat.
- Eli Manning's Role: Discussions touch on Manning's potential to thrive with Marshall as a seasoned wide receiver, provided the offensive line improves.
Andy Holloway [12:56]: "I don't think his targets will decrease in any significant way."
Other Notable Signings
-
Dwayne Allen to the New England Patriots: The Patriots reinforce their tight end depth by acquiring Dwayne Allen, drawing parallels to their previous acquisition of Martellus Bennett.
Jason Moore [34:50]: "Dwayne Allen in New England are people. Is he worth a flyer there?"
-
Brian Hoyer and Danny Woodhead to the San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers bolster their quarterback position with Brian Hoyer and add versatility to their backfield with Danny Woodhead returning.
Mike Wright [37:02]: "Brian Hoyer is a good fantasy quarterback. He'll throw a bunch of interceptions, but he'll throw a bunch of touchdowns."
-
Torrey Smith to the Philadelphia Eagles: Despite mixed reviews, the Eagles sign Torrey Smith, prompting debate on his fit within their offensive scheme.
Andy Holloway [30:25]: "They don’t have room to go out and spin a third rounder for Terrell Pryor with as deep as this draft class is."
Team-Specific Implications
New York Giants
The addition of Brandon Marshall is seen as a strategic move to enhance the Giants' offensive production without overshadowing Odell Beckham Jr. The hosts anticipate that Marshall will provide stability and veteran experience, benefiting Eli Manning's performance.
Jason Moore [15:23]: "Odell Beckham is not going to see any kind of significant decrease in targets."
Cleveland Browns
Kenny Stills' signing raises questions about the Browns' wide receiver depth and their commitment to building a potent passing offense around quarterback Josh McCown.
Jason Moore [08:13]: "All the love that we give Kenny Stills is really more of a talent."
New England Patriots
By acquiring Dwayne Allen, the Patriots aim to solidify their tight end corps, potentially enhancing their passing game under coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady.
Andy Holloway [35:03]: "He's complete. Just like Martellus Bennett."
San Francisco 49ers
Brian Hoyer and Danny Woodhead are expected to provide depth and flexibility, although concerns remain about Hoyer's consistency and Woodhead's role in the offense.
Andy Holloway [38:08]: "Danny Woodhead has been a very valuable piece for every team he has ever been on in the NFL."
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles' decision to sign Torrey Smith is met with mixed feelings, with some hosts questioning the rationale behind acquiring a player perceived as not fitting their immediate offensive needs.
Andy Holloway [30:25]: "Philly doesn't need like 20 receptions from Torrey Smith."
Fantasy Football Strategies and Recommendations
-
Evaluating Signings: The hosts emphasize the importance of assessing both the immediate impact and long-term potential of free agent signings. Players like Kenny Stills are scrutinized for their statistical contributions versus their contractual obligations.
-
Targeting High-Potential Players: Despite skepticism about certain signings, the Fantasy Footballers encourage targeting players with high upside, especially those in stable offensive systems.
-
Balancing Risk and Reward: With the influx of new signings, fantasy managers are advised to balance their rosters by integrating reliable veterans and promising talents to maximize their team’s performance.
Notable Quotes
- Jason Moore [05:00]: "He's pooping all over him. It was a trap."
- Andy Holloway [08:13]: "I completely agree and I don't think he'll get to that ceiling."
- Jason Moore [10:38]: "Brandon Marshall lands in New York."
- Andy Holloway [12:56]: "I don't think his targets will decrease in any significant way."
- Mike Wright [37:02]: "Brian Hoyer is a good fantasy quarterback."
- Jason Moore [34:50]: "Dwayne Allen in New England are people. Is he worth a flyer there?"
- Andy Holloway [35:03]: "He's complete. Just like Martellus Bennett."
Conclusion and Predictions
As the free agent period unfolds, the Fantasy Footballers provide a comprehensive analysis of key signings, their potential impacts on NFL teams, and the subsequent effects on fantasy football landscapes. While some moves like Brandon Marshall to the Giants are viewed favorably for their potential synergy with established stars, others like Kenny Stills' large contract with the Browns are met with skepticism regarding their immediate fantasy value.
The hosts conclude by encouraging listeners to stay informed, adapt their strategies based on new developments, and leverage the insights provided to optimize their fantasy football rosters for the upcoming season.
Final Thoughts
This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast is a treasure trove of expert opinions, strategic insights, and critical evaluations of the NFL free agency moves. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy manager or a newcomer to the game, the discussions offer valuable takeaways to help you navigate the competitive fantasy football landscape with confidence and style.
Tune in weekly to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast for more in-depth analysis, player evaluations, and strategic advice to dominate your fantasy leagues.