Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: NFL Coaching Changes, Fantasy Impact + Top Rookie Picks (March 7, 2019)

Hosted by Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

The March 7, 2019 episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast delves deep into the seismic shifts within the NFL coaching landscape and their ripple effects on fantasy football. The expert trio provides astute analysis on how new coaching hires could redefine player performances, discusses the standout rookies poised to make an immediate impact, and offers strategic insights to help fantasy managers stay ahead of the competition.

1. NFL Coaching Changes and Their Fantasy Implications

a. Impact of Top Coaching Hires

The hosts kick off by emphasizing the profound influence that a new head coach or offensive coordinator can have on a team’s fantasy outlook. Mike Wright highlights, “We’re going to go over all the coaching changes from this past offseason...” (01:27), underscoring how these changes can transform previously undervalued players into fantasy assets.

b. Case Studies: Rams and Bengals

Andy Holloway draws parallels between past coaching transitions, mentioning Matt Nagy’s arrival in Chicago and Sean McVay’s takeover in Los Angeles. Jason Moore points out, “McVay gets a lot of credit and of course, rightly so...” (01:37), illustrating how effective coaching can rejuvenate a team’s offense, turning players like Tyreek Hill into fantasy stars.

2. Top Rookie Picks for Fantasy Success

a. 2019 Rookie Class Overview

The discussion shifts to the 2019 rookie class, with a focus on wide receivers DK Metcalf and Nikhil Harry. Jason Moore asserts, “I would take him with the first pick” (05:00), favoring Harry for his well-rounded skill set over Metcalf’s raw athleticism.

b. Dynasty Implications

Mike Wright predicts, “DK Metcalf will go ahead of him in Dynasty drafts...” (06:55), suggesting that Metcalf’s higher draft stock in the NFL could secure him a prime spot in dynasty leagues, despite Harry’s immediate fantasy appeal.

3. Notable Player Moves and Fantasy Impact

a. Antonio Brown's Trade Scenario

Antonio Brown becomes a focal point as the Steelers negotiate his potential departure. Mike Wright discusses, “Antonio Brown's a difference maker for fantasy football owners” (12:36), emphasizing the uncertainty and excitement surrounding his destination, with hints pointing toward the Raiders or Tennessee Titans.

b. Tyreek Hill’s Contract Extension

The Chiefs' decision to extend Tyreek Hill’s contract is hailed as a win for fantasy managers. Jason Moore categorizes Hill as “a top five guy” (14:20), highlighting his value and the positive dynasty implications for Patrick Mahomes’ offense.

4. Team-Specific Coaching and Fantasy Insights

a. Arizona Cardinals: Cliff Kingsbury's Arrival

Cliff Kingsbury’s appointment as Arizona’s head coach brings the Air Raid offense into focus. Andy Holloway explains, “This is good news for fantasy, obviously, great news for David Johnson” (19:19), suggesting that Kingsbury’s system could enhance Johnson’s role in the passing game.

b. Cincinnati Bengals: Zach Taylor Takes the Helm

Zach Taylor replaces Marvin Lewis in Cincinnati, with significant fantasy implications for running back Joe Mixon. Andy Holloway notes, “With Zach Taylor, Mixon has every chance to be a top 10, top five back in fantasy” (23:09), anticipating increased utilization in the revamped offense.

c. Cleveland Browns: Freddy Kitchens Takes Over

Freddy Kitchens’ promotion to head coach in Cleveland is seen as a boon for Baker Mayfield. Mike Wright observes, “This is great news for the Cleveland Browns” (26:31), predicting improved offensive metrics and heightened fantasy production from Mayfield.

d. Denver Broncos: Vic Fangio’s Leadership

Vic Fangio replaces Vance Joseph as Denver’s head coach, raising questions about the running back situation. Mike Wright discusses Philip Lindsay’s fantasy value under Shanahan’s zone run system, stating, “It depends on whether you buy into the Shanahan system” (30:30).

e. Green Bay Packers: Matt LaFleur Steps In

Matt LaFleur takes over as head coach in Green Bay, with expectations of balancing the offense. Andy Holloway anticipates, “Someone like Aaron Jones is going to be a value this year” (36:28), highlighting potential improvements in the rushing game.

f. Miami Dolphins: Brian Flores and Chad O'Shea

Brian Flores’ move to New York Jets and Chad O'Shea’s new role as Miami’s offensive coordinator sparks debate. Jason Moore praises O'Shea’s adaptability, hoping he can “maximize what your players can do” (40:19), while Andy Holloway expresses concerns about Miami’s offensive talent.

g. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Carson Palmer and Bruce Arians

The return of Carson Palmer and the hiring of Bruce Arians in Tampa Bay are heralded as positive moves. Andy Holloway shares, “Tampa is going to be very happy with Bruce Arians...fantasy players are going to be super happy with Chris Godwin, with Mike Evans” (45:25), projecting a thriving passing offense.

5. Strategic Insights and Recommendations

a. Embracing Coaching Systems

The hosts advocate for understanding and adapting to new coaching systems to leverage player potentials. Mike Wright encourages managers to “download the best free Fantasy app...Sleeper app” (15:23) for up-to-date news and strategic advantages.

b. Evaluating Player Roles

Andy Holloway emphasizes the importance of assessing how coaching changes impact player roles, particularly in the running and passing games. He advises, “You have to buy into the Shanahan system” (30:30), highlighting the need to evaluate system compatibility with player skill sets.

Key Takeaways

• Coaching Changes Matter: New head coaches and offensive coordinators can significantly alter player performances and fantasy value. Understanding these shifts is crucial for strategic roster management.

• Rookie Evaluations: The 2019 rookie class, especially wide receivers like DK Metcalf and Nikhil Harry, presents lucrative opportunities for fantasy managers. Assessing their roles in new systems can offer edge picks.

• Player Movements: High-impact players like Antonio Brown and Tyreek Hill demand close attention due to their potential to transform team dynamics and fantasy outcomes.

• Team-Specific Strategies: Each team’s unique coaching changes and system implementations necessitate tailored fantasy strategies. Staying informed about these nuances can enhance draft and weekly lineup decisions.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Wright: “If Jeff Fisher just leaves that Rams team and they are uncoached, they're just...There’s nobody there.” (00:27)

• Jason Moore: “It didn’t go well.” (02:11)

• Andy Holloway: “This is good news for fantasy, obviously, great news for David Johnson.” (19:19)

• Jason Moore: “DK Metcalf will go ahead of him in Dynasty drafts...” (06:55)

This episode equips fantasy football enthusiasts with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of coaching changes and rookie evaluations, ensuring they make informed decisions to dominate their leagues.