Detailed Summary of "Fantasy Football Podcast 2017 - The TRUTH About Fantasy WR's in 2016, Part 2"

Release Date: January 12, 2017
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Podcast: Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast

Introduction and Episode Overview

In the second part of their in-depth analysis, the Fantasy Footballers delve deeper into the performance and consistency of wide receivers (WRs) from the 2016 NFL season. Building upon the groundwork laid in the first episode, the trio aims to provide fantasy managers with nuanced insights beyond mere statistics, evaluating WRs based on their consistency, performance against varying defensive strengths, and overall draft value.

Methodology for WR Ranking

The hosts outline their ranking system, which emphasizes not just total points but the reliability of players week-to-week. They assess consistency by considering:

• Top 5 Performances: The number of games where a WR finished among the top five based on fantasy points.
• Top 25 Performances: Instances where players ranked within the top 25 for the week.
• Busts: Weeks where a WR's performance fell outside the top 50, potentially costing a manager strategic advantages.

This comprehensive approach ensures a balanced evaluation, highlighting not only high scorers but also the dependability crucial for sustained success in fantasy leagues.

Player-by-Player Analysis

1. Michael Crabtree (#11 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 89 receptions, ~1,000 yards, 8 touchdowns.
• Consistency: 9 top 25 performances, 1 top 5 finish.

Andy praises Crabtree for outperforming expectations and maintaining consistent production throughout the season, noting, "Michael Crabtree was just playing better than Amari Cooper." Jason echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Crabtree's reliability with, "When you have nine top 25 finishes, that is being consistent."

2. Larry Fitzgerald (#12 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: Led the league with 102 receptions in PPR, over 1,000 yards, 6 touchdowns.
• Consistency: Ranked 8th in PPR, 29th in standard leagues.

Despite leading in receptions, Fitzgerald's consistency waned in standard scoring formats. The trio discusses the implications of his aging status and fluctuating performance, with Jason suggesting, "He might actually just straight retire." Andy proposes a strategic move: "You draft them and trade them for Doug Baldwin," highlighting the potential to capitalize on his initial high value before his performance potentially declines.

3. Amari Cooper (#13 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 82 receptions, ~1,100 yards, 5 touchdowns.
• Consistency: 19th ranked in consistency, 5 underperforming weeks.

Amari Cooper, despite impressive yardage, showed inconsistencies with five weeks of subpar performances. Mike cautions against his early draft value given his dependency on quarterback trust, stating, "Amari Cooper is not about to just completely disappear." The group debates whether to prioritize Cooper or opt for more reliable options like Crabtree in drafts.

4. Jarvis Landry (#14 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 94 receptions, 1,136 yards, 4 touchdowns.
• Consistency: Ranked 11th in consistency.

Jarvis Landry shines for his dependable hands and ability to produce steady point totals. Jason highlights his elite talent, mentioning, "He’s an exceptionally good wide receiver. His hands are great." Despite a lower touchdown count, Landry's consistent reception numbers make him a valuable asset for fantasy teams seeking reliability.

5. Tyrell Williams (#15 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 69 receptions, 1,059 yards, 0 touchdowns.
• Consistency: Ranked 15th in half-point PPR leagues.

Tyrell Williams, reminiscent of Vincent Jackson's role with San Diego, is praised for his big-play potential despite lower reception totals. Andy notes, "He didn’t give you PPR numbers the way that these other guys do," emphasizing his value in standard formats where big yards are more rewarded.

6. Demarius Thomas (#16 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 144 targets, 90 catches.
• Consistency: 10th in PPR, no top 5 performances.

Demarius Thomas's performance was hampered by quarterback inconsistencies, primarily due to Trevor Siemian's fluctuations. Mike expresses disappointment, stating, "It was amazing performance except in the back half." The trio advises adjusting draft expectations, considering him a late-round pick with potential upside if Siemian stabilizes.

7. Julian Edelman (#17 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 98 receptions, ~1,100 yards, 3 touchdowns.
• Consistency: 60th in standard, 17th in PPR.

Julian Edelman's performance is scrutinized due to limited top performances and reliance on specific offensive dynamics. Jason points out, "The question is which team can get them the ball," indicating his fantasy value is contingent on the Patriots' offensive strategies and quarterback performance in subsequent seasons.

8. Rashad Matthews (#18 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 65 receptions, 945 yards, 9 touchdowns.
• Consistency: 7 spots lower in standard leagues.

Rashad Matthews emerged as a surprising performer, particularly in the latter half of the season. His ability to secure touchdowns despite lower reception numbers is highlighted, with Andy asserting, "That's a heck of a year for Rashad Matthews." The hosts predict a higher draft ranking next year, positioning him as a valuable and potentially underrated option.

9. Golden Tate (#19 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: 91 receptions.
• Consistency: 24th in standard, inconsistent early season.

Golden Tate's early season struggles contrast with his strong performance in later weeks. Jason reflects on his misprojection: "He was a lock for 100 receptions," but Tate only reached 91, signaling potential volatility linked to team dynamics and offensive changes. The trio advises caution, given uncertainties around his role with returning teammates.

Late ADP WRs (#20-#24 Ranked WR)

• Terrell Pryor (#20) & Emmanuel Sanders (#21): Highlighted for their explosive game potential but marred by inconsistency.
• Tyreek Hill (#22): Praised for involvement but noted for fluctuating performances.
• Mike Wallace (#23): Acknowledged for his production but burdened by poor consistency.
• Kelvin Benjamin (#24): Criticized for inconsistent outputs and questionable draft value.

The hosts underscore the challenges fantasy managers face when including late-round WRs who have high variance in performance, often tied to team offensive stability and player-specific roles within their teams.

10. DeAndre Hopkins (#29 Ranked WR)

• 2016 Stats: Solid yardage but zero top 5 performances.
• Consistency: Ranked low due to lack of standout games.

DeAndre Hopkins is recognized for his potential yet criticized for not achieving high-impact performances key to fantasy success. Andy predicts, "He is going to be drafted around wide receiver 15," anticipating a rise in his draft ranking based on his underlying talent and future opportunities.

Drafting Strategies and Valuations

The hosts advocate for a balanced approach in drafting WRs, emphasizing the importance of:

• Consistency Over High Peaks: Favoring players who deliver steady production over those with sporadic high-scoring games.
• Target Volume: Prioritizing WRs who receive a higher number of targets, as this correlates with fantasy point generation.
• Risk Management: Being cautious with aging players or those dependent on unstable quarterbacks, recommending potential trades post-draft to mitigate risks.

Andy summarizes the strategy, "You don't really get that from Cooper, you know, top five numbers. But talk about a great wide receiver too, to have on your fantasy team." Jason adds, "When you have that kind of solid production coming in, those are keys to organizing a fantasy football roster in a way where you win every week."

Fantasy Football News Updates

Team Relocation and Coaching Changes

• San Diego Chargers to Los Angeles: Discussed the impact of the relocation on fan engagement and stadium attendance. Mike humorously notes, "How are you going to support two teams?"

• Coaching Movements:

  • Vance Joseph to Denver Broncos: Likely leads to Wade Phillips leaving, affecting defensive strategies.
  • Sean McDermott Hired by Buffalo Bills: Expected to bring a strong defensive overhaul, potentially improving the team's fantasy outlook.
  • Mike McCoy Returning to Denver: Anticipated to stabilize the Broncos' offense, impacting WRs like Demarius Thomas positively.

Player Updates and Injuries

• Geronimo Allison's Status: Mentioned concerning marijuana charges but expected to play, influencing his role in the Packers' WR rotation.

• Jordy Nelson's Absence: Potential for missing key games, affecting Packers' WR depth and fantasy considerations.

Final Insights and Closing Remarks

As the podcast nears its conclusion, the hosts reflect on the dynamic nature of WR performances and the continual factors influencing fantasy success, such as team changes, coaching strategies, and player health. They encourage listeners to stay adaptable and informed, leveraging the detailed analyses provided to make strategic roster decisions.

Andy wraps up with enthusiasm about the upcoming playoff games, prompting managers to apply the insights discussed for optimal performance in their leagues. The trio reiterates the importance of community engagement through jointhefoot.com and invites listeners to contribute reviews and participate in exclusive fantasy leagues.

Notable Quotes

• Andy Holloway [12:28]: "Michael Crabtree was just playing better than Amari Cooper."
• Jason Moore [13:07]: "When you have nine top 25 finishes, that is being consistent."
• Mike Wright [05:19]: "If Gronk is not on the pop list starting next year, I would absolutely take him in the third round."
• Jason Moore [17:35]: "He's an exceptionally good wide receiver. His hands are great."
• Andy Holloway [29:22]: "Tyrell Williams is by far the most likely to give you a year. Number 60 or something like that."
• Jason Moore [34:08]: "He just keeps doing it."
• Andy Holloway [47:22]: "What are you sending me? He is going to be drafted around wide receiver 15."

This episode provides a comprehensive evaluation of WR performances in the 2016 NFL season, offering fantasy managers strategic insights into drafting and managing wide receivers. By focusing on consistency, target volume, and situational performance, the Fantasy Footballers equip listeners with the knowledge to enhance their fantasy league success.