FantasyPros - Fantasy Football Podcast
Episode: Free Agent Frenzy: Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Cooper Kupp, and Aaron Rodgers | Out Of Bounds (Ep. 1547)
Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 1547 of the FantasyPros Fantasy Football Podcast, hosted by Joey P. Zepia and Welsh, the hosts dive deep into the latest free agency moves, analyzing the impact of key players like Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Cooper Kupp, and the potential signing of Aaron Rodgers. Despite technical difficulties with co-host Bogman being stranded in Tampa due to severe weather ([00:35]-[01:52]), Joey and Welsh ensure the discussion remains insightful and engaging for fantasy football enthusiasts.

Cooper Kupp Signs with the Seahawks

The episode kicks off with an in-depth discussion about Cooper Kupp's recent signing with the Seattle Seahawks on a three-year, $45 million contract ([02:05]-[07:22]). The hosts debate whether Kupp’s move revitalizes his fantasy value or if his history of injuries and inconsistent performances will continue to hinder his effectiveness.

Joey P. Zepia ([03:41]):
"We're going to talk to Welsh about Cooper Kupp because it's fun. Seahawks have officially signed Cooper Kupp to a three-year, 45 million dollar contract. We'll see how that works out."

The Welsh ([04:53]):
"Cooper Kupp obviously was done for the Rams. He's had a myriad of injuries over the years. He's at a two-year window where he had some of the largest volume we've seen from a wide receiver, and it's clearly taken its toll on him."

Despite Kupp’s low ADP (Average Draft Position) at 104th overall (43rd at wide receiver), Welsh remains skeptical about his consistency, citing his limited game time and effectiveness over the past three years. However, Joey sees potential upside if Kupp adapts to the Seahawks' system, though he advises caution.

Bengals Secure Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the Cincinnati Bengals' strategic moves in securing their star wide receivers.

Joey P. Zepia ([23:11]):
"The Bengals made some big news. They spent some money. Ja’Marr Chase, four years, 161 million dollar contract extension. He is the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Good on him."

The Welsh ([26:56]):
"Resigning and getting Chase done with Higgins was key. It's a one-two punch that Joe Burrow needs. They need those targets to get that passing game going. This is a good controllable offense."

The extension of Ja’Marr Chase and the recent signing of Tee Higgins on a four-year, $115 million deal solidify the Bengals' offensive prowess. The hosts predict that these moves could lead to a Joe Burrow MVP season, provided the players stay healthy. They also discuss the implications for fantasy managers, highlighting the increased stability and high target volume of these receivers.

Running Back Free Agency and Rumors

Joey and Welsh shift focus to the running back position, discussing recent signings and their fantasy implications.

Joey P. Zepia ([17:08]-[26:56]):
"Kareem Hunt goes back to the Chiefs, Jordan Mason signs with the Vikings, and Rico Dowdle joins the Panthers. Of these three, who's the most tempting to invest in for 2025?"

The Welsh ([18:16]-[22:16]):
"Kareem Hunt signing seems detrimental to Isaiah Pacheco. Jordan Mason could potentially take over a backfield if Pacheco gets healthier. Rico Dowdle is less predictable, being part of Chuba’s backfield."

The hosts analyze Kareem Hunt's return to the Chiefs as a potential negative for Isaiah Pacheco's fantasy value. Jordan Mason’s two-year contract with the Vikings is seen as the most intriguing, given his performance under pressure and potential to earn more carries if Pacheco regains form. Rico Dowdle’s one-year deal with the Panthers is deemed less attractive due to uncertainty in his role.

Free Agency Rumors: Aaron Rodgers and Matthew Golden

The podcast also delves into the swirling rumors around Aaron Rodgers' free agency status and the potential signing of tight end Matthew Golden by the Seahawks.

Joey P. Zepia ([23:11]-[26:56]):
"Aaron Rodgers is being discussed as a potential signee by the Vikings. Additionally, the Seahawks might sign Matthew Golden, a move that could boost their tight end position."

The Welsh ([24:06]-[26:56]):
"Indianapolis could be a good spot for Matthew Golden. Jacksonville also presents an interesting opportunity for tight end upgrades."

Rodgers' potential signing with the Vikings is analyzed, with Joey expressing skepticism about taking advice from Brett Favre regarding player moves. The discussion moves to Matthew Golden, highlighting his possible impact on the Seahawks' offense and his fantasy viability, with Welsh considering Indianapolis and Jacksonville as likely landing spots.

Fantasy Rankings and Draft Strategies

A significant segment is dedicated to fantasy rankings and drafting strategies, particularly focusing on Tee Higgins' position relative to other wide receivers.

Joey P. Zepia ([29:00]-[32:12]):
"In the consensus rankings, Tee Higgins is the 12th wide receiver. Should he be drafted over players like JSN, Terry McLaurin, and others?"

The Welsh ([30:47]-[33:34]):
"Tee Higgins is positioned as the complete wide receiver, not just a slot player. In a half PPR format, his touchdown equity makes him a valuable pick over others."

The hosts debate whether Tee Higgins should be prioritized over other receivers such as JSN, Terry McLaurin, and Lad McConkey. They conclude that Higgins offers a balanced value with both consistency and high-ceiling performances, making him a solid choice in various draft formats.

Listener Questions and Community Engagement

Listeners contribute questions about specific trades and draft decisions, such as whether to trade Derrick Henry for future picks. Joey and Welsh provide their perspectives, emphasizing the importance of balancing current performance with future potential.

Joey P. Zepia ([27:58]-[28:53]):
"Derrick Henry has shown elite performance but has a history of injuries. Would trading him for future first and third-round picks be worthwhile?"

The Welsh ([28:53]-[29:00]):
"Henry is a robust option if you're in a 'win now' mode, but his injury history makes it a tougher decision."

The conversation underscores the complexity of trading high-performing but injury-prone players, advising fantasy managers to weigh immediate gains against long-term stability.

Community Interaction and Wrap-Up

Towards the end of the episode, Joey and Welsh engage in light-hearted banter and discuss their community interactions on Discord and Twitch. They encourage listeners to join their platforms for live discussions, AMAs, and additional fantasy football insights.

Joey P. Zepia ([36:01]-[42:28]):
"Join us on Twitch and Discord for more live discussions and fantasy football strategies. Engage with us and other fantasy enthusiasts to enhance your league performance."

The Welsh ([36:02]-[36:42]):
"Seeing the community interactions and fan contributions is phenomenal. It's great to have a thriving community supporting the show."

Key Takeaways

• Cooper Kupp's Seahawks Signing: Potential for increased fantasy value if he adapts, but concerns remain due to past injuries.
• Bengals' Strengthened Offense: Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins securing lucrative contracts could lead to a powerhouse offense, benefiting fantasy managers.
• Running Back Moves: Kareem Hunt’s return to Chiefs may impact Isaiah Pacheco negatively, while Jordan Mason presents an intriguing fantasy option for Vikings-affiliated managers.
• Free Agency Speculations: Aaron Rodgers' potential move to the Vikings and Matthew Golden’s signing by the Seahawks could reshape team dynamics and fantasy landscapes.
• Draft Strategies: Tee Higgins stands out as a versatile and reliable wide receiver, making him a worthy draft pick over some peers in various formats.

Notable Quotes

• Joey P. Zepia ([03:41]):
  "We'll talk about Cooper Kupp because it's fun. Seahawks have officially signed Cooper Kupp to a three-year, 45 million dollar contract. We'll see how that works out."

• The Welsh ([04:53]):
  "He has had a myriad of injuries over the years. He's at a two-year window with some of the largest volume we've seen from a wide receiver, and it's clearly taken its toll on him."

• Joey P. Zepia ([23:11]):
  "Ja’Marr Chase is the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Good on him."

• The Welsh ([26:56]):
  "Resigning and getting Chase done with Higgins was key. They need those targets to get that passing game going."

• Joey P. Zepia ([27:58]):
  "Derrick Henry has shown elite performance but has a history of injuries. Would trading him for future first and third-round picks be worthwhile?"

For more detailed discussions and live interactions, tune into the FantasyPros Discord and Twitch channels. Stay updated with the latest in fantasy football to gain the competitive edge in your league.