By Rob Shaw, Phil Jean, and Dan Cypra, FantasyFanatics.com
ROUND 1, 1ST OVERALL: Tom Brady, QB, NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
It was between Brady and LaDainian Tomlinson; however, at the end of the day I went with Brady for a simple reason. Ideally, quarterbacks offer a great deal more stability than running backs. LT has managed to stay healthy throughout his career. I hope that he is able to maintain that trend, but as he gets older, the odds continue to stockpile against him. Heck, this season we saw Shaun Alexander, Larry Johnson, and Steven Jackson fall to injury. I would rather avoid those odds by drafting a quarterback with fine protection and an ability to avoid the big hits while posing great numbers. As long as the Patriots have Randy Moss, I expect Tom Brady to have exceptional fantasy value.
ROUND 1, 2nd OVERALL: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
I’m happy to see him still on the board when drafting second overall. He just had his seventh consecutive season with at least 15 touchdowns. It was not the ridiculous year like two seasons ago, but LT is still the best running back in the game and has a longer proven track record than Minnesota’s Adrian Peterson.
ROUND 1, 3RD OVERALL: Adrian Peterson, RB, MINNESOTA VIKINGS
Adrian Peterson was an absolute beast in 2007. Despite splitting time with Chester Taylor, he managed 1,341 yards and 12 touchdowns. He even missed two games due to injury, meaning if he stays healthy, he’s a premier fantasy running back. His only downside is his inability to be involved in the passing game.
ROUND 1, 4TH OVERALL: Randy Moss, WR, NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
The best quarterback and running back have been taking off the board, but not the best wide receiver. Randy Moss dominated his position more than any other player in the game aside from his teammate Tom Brady. He had seven more touchdowns than any other wide receiver in the NFL. An encore of 20 touchdowns is expected in 2008.
ROUND 1, 5TH OVERALL: Joseph Addai, RB, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
A nice pick here, but taken over both Brian Westbrook and Steven Jackson. Addai got off to a fast start for the Colts and showed that he can last a whole season. He ran for 1,072 yards, caught 41 balls, and scored a total of 15 touchdowns. He is not being overused by the Colts since he only had 261 carries on the year. I expect him to have another stellar year in 2008.
ROUND 1, 6TH OVERALL: Brian Westbrook, RB, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
Brian Westbrook is arguably a better fantasy running back than LaDainian Tomlinson, Joseph Addai, and Adrian Peterson. 2007 was a career year for Westbrook: 1,333 yards on the ground and 771 more through the air. He had more receptions than Terrell Owens, Braylon Edwards, and Kellen Winslow and found the end zone 12 times. His ability to stay healthy last season bodes well for 2008.
ROUND 1, 7TH OVERALL: Steven Jackson, RB, ST. LOUIS RAMS
Sure, injuries marred this past season, but you’d be nuts to think that Steven Jackson simply lost his talent. He didn’t suffer from a couple of isolated injuries, which means you can expect a full bounce back in 2008. After all, this guy did play the entire second half of the season and put up 728 rushing yards with 205 yards receiving. Do the math. We’re talking about 1,456 yards rushing and 410 yards receiving with 10 touchdowns. This is a steal at the seventh spot.
ROUND 1, 8TH OVERALL: Terrell Owens, WR, DALLAS COWBOYS
He’s undoubtedly one of the best wideouts in the game. When his heart and head are committed to football, he could very well be the best. He had a stellar 2007 with 81 catches for 1,355 yards and 15 touchdowns. He now has 129 scores in his career, so he is a great first pick here, although some naysayers may have a valid point that this pick should have been Reggie Wayne.
ROUND 1, 9TH OVERALL: Larry Johnson, RB, KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
OK, so Larry Johnson’s 2007 campaign was a train wreck. Coming off an NFL record 416 carries, Grandmama played in eight games and found the end zone four times total. Then, his season abruptly ended against the Green Bay Packers. He still had 37 rushing touchdowns in the previous two seasons combined and added three more touchdowns through the air over that span. He remains an elite fantasy option and may be undervalued in many 2008 drafts.
ROUND 1, 10TH OVERALL: Ronnie Brown, RB, MIAMI DOLPHINS
He was the running back of the year before injuries forced him out for the season in Week 7. Brown developed a great receiving game to complement his solid rushing game. Injuries are always a concern; however, his career average of 4.4 yards per carry makes him a fine first round option. Of course, there will be some concern with a new coaching staff brought in for the 2008 season.
ROUND 1, 11TH OVERALL: Frank Gore, RB, SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
He didn’t have the season he had in 2006, but still managed to put up solid numbers on a pathetic offensive team. He rushed for 1,102 yards and 5 touchdowns. He also caught 53 balls for 436 yards and another score. He’s shown that he can play through injuries and put back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons, so I think he’s a safe pick here at the tail end of the first round.
ROUND 1, 12TH OVERALL: Jamal Lewis, RB, CLEVELAND BROWNS
Jamal Lewis finished the season off strong in 2007, which bodes well for excellence in 2008. He topped 100 yards in four of the last six games and found the end zone 11 times total. He averaged two catches a game and lost just two fumbles on the season. Behind a vastly improved offensive line of the Browns, look for big things from The Jailbird in 2008.
ROUND 2, 13TH OVERALL: Braylon Edwards, WR, CLEVELAND BROWNS
We went back to back picks with the Browns’ offense. Braylon Edwards finished with 16 touchdowns, the second most among NFL wideouts. He had 80 catches, nearly topped 1,300 yards receiving, and had six touchdowns in the last six games. If Derek Anderson remains as quarterback of the Browns in 2008, he’s easily a top-three fantasy receiver.
ROUND 2, 14TH OVERALL: Tony Romo, QB, DALLAS COWBOYS
You can’t argue with his numbers, but Peyton Manning was on the board and probably should have been picked here. Romo has all the tools in Dallas to succeed and that’s just what he did in 2007, as he shattered the Cowboys record book. He threw for 4,211 yards and 36 touchdowns (though 19 interceptions is a little high).
ROUND 2, 15TH OVERALL: Reggie Wayne, WR, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Aside from Randy Moss, Reggie Wayne is the best wide out in the NFL. The 29-year old is in his prime and has not missed a game in his past six seasons. He led the league with 1,510 receiving yards and took in 10 touchdowns. Expect another stellar season for the Miami product in 2008.
ROUND 2, 16TH OVERALL: Peyton Manning, QB, INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Peyton Manning had a pretty quiet 2007. By pretty quiet, I mean 31 touchdowns and 4,040 yards passing. If the NFL weren’t hung up on Tom Brady, Manning would be drafted in the first round in 2008. He’s a steal in the second round. He’s the most consistent fantasy quarterback out there.
ROUND 2, 17TH OVERALL: Marion Barber, RB, DALLAS COWBOYS
How about them Cowboys? This team is adding another weapon from Dallas in running back Marion Barber, who scored 12 times in 2007 while rushing for 975 yards. He only ran the ball 204 times, so I would like to see him get more carries.
ROUND 2, 18TH OVERALL: Larry Fitzgerald, WR, ARIZONA CARDINALS
There are not many elite wide outs out there and Larry Fitzgerald is one of them. Fitzgerald matched his 2005 numbers with 1,409 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns. All of this despite missing a game due to injury. This is a player who scored nine touchdowns in his final seven games played for the season. Sounds like Randy Moss-type potential.
ROUND 2, 19TH OVERALL: Drew Brees, QB, NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Drew Brees started the season slowly, tossing just one touchdown and nine interceptions through the first four games. Then, Drew Brees remembered he was Drew Brees, averaging two touchdowns over the next 13 games and throwing multiple scores in all but two of those contests. He’s surrounded by a young supporting cast and should be helped by the return of Deuce McAllister in 2008.
ROUND 2: 20TH OVERALL: Chad Johnson, WR, CINCINNATI BENGALS
Ocho Cinco is explosive, but I would like to see more consistent numbers. The Cincinnati Bengals wide out went crazy against Miami in Week 17 by scoring three times, but he only had eight touchdowns on the year. He was third in the league with 1,440 yards receiving. You would like to see him find the end zone on a more consistent basis, but Chad Johnson is a great wideout for this fantasy team.
ROUND 2, 21ST OVERALL: Brandon Jacobs, RB, NEW YORK GIANTS
In need of a running back, I drafted the 264-lbs. Giants tailback. Jacobs is fresh off a superb season with 1,009 yards and six total touchdowns. These numbers are incredible when you consider that he missed five games due to injury. Had he performed at his average level in those five games, Jacobs would have concluded the season with 1,469 rushing yards. Of course, injuries may be something that we’ll have to get accustomed to as this big bruising back gets banged up aplenty.
ROUND 2, 22ND OVERALL: Andre Johnson, WR, HOUSTON TEXANS
Andre Johnson played just nine games in 2007, but found the end zone eight times. When completely healthy at the beginning of the season, he was an elite fantasy receiver: 14 receptions and three touchdowns over the first two games. He had at least six grabs in all but one game played and topped 100 yards four times. He is the entire Texans’ offense.
ROUND 2, 23RD OVERALL: Anquan Boldin, WR, ARIZONA CARDINALS
When healthy, he is one of the best wide receivers in the game. He had 853 yards and nine touchdowns this year in just 12 games. He finished strong with three scores in his final two games.
ROUND 2, 24TH OVERALL: Marshawn Lynch, RB, BUFFALO BILLS
While rookie tailback Adrian Peterson made all of the headlines with huge numbers, Marshawn Lynch offered stability to the Bills and fantasy managers. Despite missing three games in his first professional season, Lynch totaled 1,115 rushing yards with seven touchdowns. He was the eighth best running back this season despite missing those games and the future should only get brighter.
ROUND 3, 25TH OVERALL: Ryan Grant, RB, GREEN BAY PACKERS
It took an injury to Vernand Morency, missed opportunities by Brandon Jackson, and another injury to DeShawn Wynn before Ryan Grant finally earned a chance to play for the Packers. The opportunity would not slip by him. Grant ranked as one of the game’s best in the second half of the season when he amassed a staggering 770 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. On an offense that features a high-powered passing attack, Grant offers some balance and plenty of fantasy points.
ROUND 3, 26TH OVERALL: Willis McGahee, RB, BALTIMORE RAVENS
Willis McGahee notched a strong season for the atrocious Baltimore Ravens. I wanted to get my two starting running backs taken care of and McGahee foots the bill. In 2007, he ran for over 1,200 yards and scored seven rushing touchdowns. At one point, he scored a touchdown in seven straight games. Let that sink in for a minute.
ROUND 3, 27TH OVERALL: Earnest Graham, RB, TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS
Earnest Graham is an all-purpose back with elite status in leagues that dole out points per receptions. In 16 games played, he had 10 touchdowns on the ground and 49 receptions. He was a beacon of consistency at the end of the season, scoring in six of the last seven games. He had just one fumble lost on the season. Look out Cadillac Williams! There’s a running back controversy brewing in 2008. Fire the cannons!
ROUND 3, 28TH OVERALL: Willie Parker, RB, PITTSBURGH STEELERS
A perennial first-round pick, Parker has fallen two rounds thanks to scoring just two touchdowns on the season. Nonetheless, Parker did finish in fourth place in rushing yards despite missing the final game of the season due to injury. Of course, those poor end zone numbers may just be an anomaly for a guy who scored 16 touchdowns the previous season. If he gets half of that total, I’ve got a major steal on my hands.
ROUND 3, 29TH OVERALL: Clinton Portis, RB, WASHINGTON REDSKINS
The Washington Redskin tailback is one of the more consistent running backs in the league and has averaged over 90 yards per game for his career. In 2007, he ran 1,262 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. He also had a career high with 47 receptions, so the Redskins are finding more ways to get him the ball, which is good news for your fantasy team.
ROUND 3, 30TH OVERALL: T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, CINCINNATI BENGALS
T.J. WhosYourMomma started the season strong, but disappeared later on. He was passed over for Anquan Boldin in our Mock Draft. Nevertheless, Housh finished with 12 touchdowns on the season and an NFL-high 112 receptions. His 12 scores ties with Plaxico Burress and Greg Jennings for fourth best in the NFL. With Chad Johnson’s status with the Bengals up in the air this off-season, Housh may be the go-to-guy in 2008.
ROUND 3, 31ST OVERALL: Carson Palmer, QB, CINCINNATI BENGALS
He had an awful season, but the past reminds us of the potential for Carson Palmer. In 2005, Palmer broke out with 32 touchdowns to just 12 interceptions. After overcoming a major knee injury, he followed with 28 touchdowns and 13 interceptions with 4,035 yards in 2006. This year, Palmer and the Bengals took a major step in the wrong direction. Despite a career high 4,131 passing yards and a career low of 17 sacks, Palmer tossed a career high 20 interceptions with just 26 touchdowns. He had just 10 touchdowns in the second half of the season. The Bengals as a team struggled thanks to a stationary rushing attack and aside from Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, had little help for Palmer in the passing game. Expect bigger and better numbers in 2008 for the former top-three quarterback.
ROUND 3, 32ND OVERALL: Laurence Maroney, RB, NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
He has all the talent to be a top-tier back and he showed it at the end of the year, but with the Brady Express going nuts, you wonder how much use he will get. In 2008, I think he will have an increased role and that is good news for fantasy owners. Maroney did rush for 835 yards and six touchdowns.
ROUND 3, 33RD OVERALL: LenDale White, RB, TENNESSEE TITANS
LenDale White topped 1,000 yards despite splitting carries for much of the year with Chris Brown and Chris Henry. He found the end zone seven times and topped 100 yards five times this season. Look for The Hamburgler’s role to expand in 2008 given Chris Brown gets one year older. Vince Young’s growing pains make the ground game that much more vital to Tennessee’s success.
ROUND 3, 34TH OVERALL: Edgerrin James, RB, ARIZONA CARDINALS
This Miami Hurricane has failed to maintain his high level of production from his days in Indianapolis. Nonetheless, for a third round pick, James should offer 1,200 rushing yards and six or more touchdowns. While there may be some flashier running backs, you have to credit James for his consistency. He now has five straight seasons with at least 1,150 rushing yards, six touchdowns, and 200 receiving yards.
ROUND 3, 35TH OVERALL: Torry Holt, WR, ST. LOUIS RAMS
He’s one of the most consistent wide receivers in the game. He managed to put up good numbers despite the disaster of a season for the Rams. He caught 93 balls for 1,189 yards. His 2006 numbers: 93 catches for 1,188 yards. Like I said, you have to love the consistency. You would like to see him find the end zone more often though, as he only scored 7 touchdowns, but this fantasy team is set with a starter at QB, RB, and WR.
ROUND 3, 36TH OVERALL: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Big Ben Roethlisberger’s performance in the team’s Wild Card Game against the Jacksonville Jaguars wasn’t great in reality, but was a gem in fantasy. He threw for over 200 yards eight times this season and finished with more touchdowns than Peyton Manning. The Steelers threw, threw, threw in the red zone, which gives Roethlisberger a tremendous fantasy boost. He’s arguably a better fantasy option than both Manning and Drew Brees, each of whom was taken before Roethlisberger in this draft.
ROUND 4, 37TH OVERALL: Marques Colston, WR, SAINTS
Marques Colston emerged as an elite fantasy receiver last year. In 2007, he got off to a slow start, but finished with 11 touchdowns, including nine in the last 10 games. He hauled in eight or more grabs eight times in 2007. He’s a steal as a WR2.
ROUND 4, 38TH OVERALL: Antonio Gates, TE, CHARGERS
We have the QB, RB, and WR, so now we need the tight end and you have get the best in the business. Gates had another stellar year in 2007 as he caught 75 passes for 984 yards and 9 TDs. In his last 4 years, he is averaging more than 10 TDs a year. This is the cream of the crop when it comes to tight end.
ROUND 4, 39TH OVERALL: Roy Williams, WR, LIONS
If there was a lesson learned this season for me, it was the importance of stacking up at wide receivers. While most fantasy managers go deep at running back, it’s the wide receiver position that forces you to go three deep. I can now rest assured knowing that my first two wide outs are of the elite caliber. Williams would have racked up more than 1100 yards if not for the freak injury that ended his season after 12 games. Expect another stellar season in ’08.
ROUND 4, 40TH OVERALL: Plaxico Burress, WR, GIANTS
Plaxico Burress had a career high 12 touchdowns and topped 1,000 yards for the fourth time in his career. He scored eight times in the first six games before injuries set him back for the rest of the season. He virtually disappeared in the middle of the season, which is alarming, but for my number one wideout, 12 touchdowns is enough to warrant a pick.
ROUND 4, 41ST OVERALL: Brandon Marshall, WR, BRONCOS
Team TO goes against the grain and refuses to go tight end this round. How about one of the most improved players instead? Marshall enjoyed a break out year in 2007 with 102 receptions for 1325 yards and 7 TDs. Jay Cutler loves this guy, and you have to think the coverage could ease up on him with a healthy Javon Walker on the other side of the field. What is scary, is he was getting even better at the end of the year. How about these numbers in his last 4 games (37 receptions, 441 yards and 3 TDs)? To quote Larry David, “He’s pretty, pretty, pretty good.”
ROUND 4, 42ND OVERALL: Steve Smith, WR, PANTHERS
Wow, I am not sure that this draft could have started any better for me. Steve Jackson could end up the second-best running back in the NFL. Larry Fitzgerald is a bonafide star receiver. Carson Palmer is a proven top-3 quarterback fresh off a dismal season. Now I’m able to add Steve Smith, a player who with a decent quarterback can challenge Randy Moss for position supremacy. Even in the worst season possible, Steve Smith ranked 18th at his position. At 29, Smith should be in his prime, and as long as Jake Delhomme returns to health, Smith could be in for a huge season.
ROUND 4, 43RD OVERALL: Jason Witten, TE, COWBOYS
Hard Hittin’ Jason Witten was a fantasy dynamo at tight end on 2007. He finished with a career-high 96 receptions and seven touchdowns. He topped 1,000 yards for the first time in his career. The only downside was that he disappeared as a touchdown option after Week 12, scoring just once. He notched double-digit receptions in two games.
ROUND 4, 44TH OVERALL: Tony Gonzalez, TE, CHIEFS
Tony Gonzalez seems a trendy pick. The tight end in round 4, but how can you argue against adding arguably the best tight end to ever play the game? Gonzalez had another stellar year despite the problems at quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. He caught 99 balls for 1172 yards and 5 TDs. His TD production has fallen off the previous 3 years (2, 5, 5) but his previous 5 years, he averaged over 8 TDs a season with a career-high of 11 in 1999. The future Hall-of-Famer is still money for fantasy, so welcome aboard big fella.
ROUND 4, 45TH OVERALL: Kellen Winslow, TE, BROWNS
It is clear that the fourth round became the tight end run. In my opinion, there are four tight ends who rise above the rest: Antonio Gates, Jason Witten, Tony Gonzalez, and Kellen Winslow. Of the aforementioned tight ends, Winslow has the most upside thanks to his youth and recent improvement.
ROUND 4, 46TH OVERALL: Matt Hasselbeck, QB, SEAHAWKS
With the fantasy value of Dallas Clark up in the air next year given Marvin Harrison should be healthy, I selected the next best quarterback in the draft, Matt Hasselbeck. The Seahawks’ commitment to the pass translated into big numbers for Hass in 2007. He had 26 scores through the last 14 games of the season and nearly topped 4,000 yards for the first time in his career. His rushing stats were less than desirable.
ROUND 4, 47TH OVERALL: Dallas Clark, TE, COLTS
We wanted to get our tight end squared away and we added one of the best in the game. Clark had 11 TDs on the year and 616 yards receiving. You must remember that he missed a game and did not play very well after suffering a concussion in mid year. I think he has proven that he is a solid player for the past few years and this year he had upped his TD production. He runs great routes and he was a beast when he played at Iowa.
ROUND 4, 48TH OVERALL: Greg Jennings, WR, PACKERS
While Brett Favre will receive the brunt of the accolades, a great deal of credit belongs to deep route option Greg Jennings. His 12 touchdowns led the team, and his 920 receiving yards offered some consistency for fantasy managers. At 24 years old, you can look at Jennings as the Reggie Wayne of the Packers, with veteran Donald Driver playing the role of Marvin Harrison.
ROUND 5, 49TH OVERALL: Wes Welker, WR, PATRIOTS
One of the biggest surprises of the 2007 season, Wes Welker should continue to thrive as the possession receiver for the Patriots. His speed can be put to use on special teams, reverses, post patterns, and deep routes, and Tom Brady has always been one to take advantage.
ROUND 5, 50TH OVERALL: Joey Galloway, WR, BUCCANEERS
We wanted to add another wide receiver and this ageless veteran seems to be like the Energizer bunny in that he keeps going and going and going. 1014 yards and 6 TDs in 15 games for the Bucs star. That’s the third straight year now that he as eclipsed 1000 yards and score at least 6 TDs. Speed kills.
ROUND 5, 51ST OVERALL: Fred Taylor, RB, JAGUARS
Fragile Freddie Taylor stayed healthy for the second consecutive season and sent him to Honolulu for the Pro Bowl after Willie Parker went down. Taylor closed out 2007 with five straight 100 yard games and scored four touchdowns over that span. Given the uncertainty of other running backs available (Kevin Jones and Justin Fargas), Taylor shores up my running back core for 2008.
ROUND 5, 52ND OVERALL: Jay Cutler, QB, BRONCOS
In need of a quarterback, I’m going to take a bit of a risk here grabbing Jay Cutler in the fifth round. As disappointing as his sophomore year was, he still ranked 11th in fantasy value over players likely drafted above him including Jon Kitna, Eli Manning, and Philip Rivers. He also finished the season very strong, renewing optimism that with a healthy Javon Walker, he could enjoy some fine numbers in 2008.
ROUND 5, 53RD OVERALL: Marvin Harrison WR, COLTS
In Round 5 we decide to add another future Hall-of-Famer with the Colts wideout. Harrison suffered a horrible 2007 thanks to a knee injury, but it’s tough to argue against picking up a guy who caught at least 10 TDs every year since 1999. Last year he only had 1 TD after playing in 5 games. Harrison is a stud and Peyton Manning loves getting him the ball. I am confident he can bounce back from the knee injury and produce 1000 yards and 8 TDs.
ROUND 5, 54TH OVERALL: Reggie Bush, RB, SAINTS
Reggie Bush was a disaster in 2007. He made Aaron Stecker look like Barry Sanders after succumbing to injury in Week 13. He proved to the world he’s not capable of being a featured back right now in the NFL. He’s a role-playing offensive weapon as evidenced by his 73 receptions in 13 games. However, he only found the end zone six times, so downgrade him if your league doesn’t award points per reception.
ROUND 5, 55TH OVERALL: Justin Fargas, RB, RAIDERS
In need of a running back, Justin Fargas was a perfect fit. The Raiders running back should be the favourite to start in ’08 thanks to his youth (he will be 28), and his performance in ’07 (he ranked 23rd in running back production). He rushed for over 1,000 yards and came a dozen short of 200 receiving yards. These are great numbers for player who missed the final two games of the season, and came off the bench for the five additional games. Fargas rushed for over 100 yards on four occasions, and over 135 yards on three occasions. Fargas can rank among the elite if given the opportunity in ’08.
ROUND 5, 56TH OVERALL: Hines Ward, WR, STEELERS
It was kind of a down year for Ward thanks to injuries, but in 13 games, he still managed to produce to the tune of 71 catches, 732 yards and 7 TDs. Big Ben had a fantasy breakout year in 2007, and Ward should rebound from his injury-plagued year to produce a better 2008. I like this pick in the 5th round as we certainly have some quality wideouts on this team.
ROUND 5, 57TH OVERALL: Kevin Curtis, WR, EAGLES
Kevin Curtis had 1,110 receiving yards and six touchdowns as the home run threat for the Eagles. Given quarterback Donovan McNabb’s struggles, Curtis also was limited. However, he averaged six catches over the final three games of the season and scored once over that span. If McNabb stays with the Eagles, I love Curtis in 2008.
ROUND 5, 58TH OVERALL: Marc Bulger, QB, RAMS
When healthy, Marc Bulger is a top-5 quarterback in fantasy circles. While the ’07 season was marred by injuries, Bulger is just 30-years old with some talented receiving options, plus an excellent running back who can play from the slot. Bulger should bounce back in ’08, though I will use a draft pick later on to offer some insurance on this pick.
ROUND 5, 59TH OVERALL: Jerricho Cotchery, WR, JETS
The Jets have to score more TDs in 2008, they have to right? Well, we certainly hope so after adding this talented Jets wide receiver who has caught 82 passes in both 2006 and 2007. He racked up 1130 receiving yards, but just two TDs. The Jets were changing QBs and that never helps out your wide-receiver situation, but despite that, Cotchery rose above the mess. Laveranues Coles was injured for much of the year, forcing Cotchery to face double teams, and he still posted strong numbers. Just throw him the damn ball in the red zone!
ROUND 5, 60TH OVERALL: Kenny Watson, RB, BENGALS
Kenny Watson may be the featured back for the Bengals in 2008. With Rudi Johnson struggling to stay healthy, the Bengals may turn to the undrafted Penn State product to shoulder the load. Watson had 51 rushes and two touchdowns as the featured back in Weeks 16 and 17.
ROUND 6, 61ST OVERALL: Kevin Jones, RB, LIONS
Kevin Jones is one of my favorite NFL running backs, but he struggled to say the least in 2007. The Lions may be going elsewhere at tailback in 2008, so Jones is a gamble. His ability to make an impact both on the ground and through the air makes him a high risk, high reward play.
ROUND 6, 62ND OVERALL: Brett Favre, QB, PACKERS
I am already his campaign chair for his return in 2008. If the ageless wonder retires, then I have wasted my pick, but there is too much boyhood exuberance on the field to think Brett will hang them up. He posted one of his best years in a while as he shattered NFL records left and right (What a bad year for Dan Marino, as he had to watch the Dolphins nearly go winless, and then see his records fall to Favre). The Iron Man delivered us 4155 yards passing with 28 TDs and 15 INTs (the previous year he was 18 TDs and 18 INTs). We have our gunslinger in the fold now.
ROUND 6, 63RD OVERALL: Chris Cooley, TE, REDSKINS
Cooley might not be an elite tight end, but he is not far behind. In a class shared by Benjamin Watson, Heath Miller, and Jeremy Shockey, Cooley enjoyed the best season in ’07 with 50 receiving yards per game and eight touchdowns on the season. He is the best receiving option on the ‘Skins and has not lost a fumble in two years.
ROUND 6, 64TH OVERALL: Jeremy Shockey, TE, GIANTS
Jeremy Shockey’s 2007 season was cut short in Week 15 due to injury. However, he continued to show the flashes of brilliance which make him one of the top fantasy tight ends. His season was highlighted by a 12-catch, 129-yard performance in Week 10. As long as Eli Manning remains inconsistent, so will Shockey’s fantasy performances from week to week.
ROUND 6, 65TH OVERALL: Heath Miller, TE, STEELERS
We like Cowboys and Steelers on this team. We add Heath Miller to take care of our tight end duties thanks to his fine performance for the Steelers in 2007, as he made 47 catches for 566 yards and 7 TDs – all career-highs. He has averaged 6 TD catches in his 3 years, so we think we found a quality TE in round 6.
ROUND 6, 66th OVERALL: Benjamin Watson, TE, PATRIOTS
While most of the other teams in the draft gobbled up their tight ends two rounds earlier, I’m grabbing a solid option two rounds later. Despite missing a quarter of the season due to injuries, Watson ranked 13th in fantasy value amongst tight ends. With Daniel Graham in Denver, Watson became the best tight end option in the red zone for the Patriots. At 27, Watson should only get better, and could join the elite company if he is able to stay on the field.
ROUND 6, 67TH OVERALL: Roddy White, WR, FALCONS
Roderick White ended the season as an elite fantasy option, scoring in four of his last six games. He thrived with someone other than Joey Harrington and Byron Leftwich at quarterback. With a shakeup in store in Atlanta this off-season, his value can only increase.
ROUND 6, 68TH OVERALL: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, JAGUARS
The diminutive running back is anything but, when it comes to fantasy football. He tallied another 11 TDs (rushing and receiving) in 2007 after scoring 15 times in 2006. He has to split carries with Fred Taylor, but he still has managed to rush for an average of 855 yards a year and add another 420 yards in the passing game. Plus, he returns kickoffs, so he is a nice piece to add to the backfield, particularly in leagues that includes special teams yards.
ROUND 6, 69TH OVERALL: Laveranues Coles, WR, JETS
Having gone four rounds without selecting a wide out, it’s time to grab my second receiver. In hindsight, Santonio Holmes would have been a better selection, however, Laveranues Coles appeared to be the safe bet. He has scored five or more touchdowns in three consecutive seasons, and has caught over 1,000 yards in 3 different seasons. At the end of the draft, this was one pick that I believe I blew. Look for me to pick another wide out with my next selection.
ROUND 6, 70TH OVERALL: Santonio Holmes, WR, STEELERS
When healthy, Holmes was a beast. He had 942 yards and eight touchdowns in 2007, despite only playing in 13 games. He’s the home run threat for the Steelers. Fellow receiver Hines Ward will be 32 next year and, given the Steelers’ propensity to throw, Holmes becomes a solid fantasy option next season.
ROUND 6, 71ST OVERALL: Derek Anderson, QB, BROWNS
We need a QB and we pick up the surprise of 2007 with the Cleveland signal caller. At the time we picked him, we did not know his status of returning as a starter or going somewhere else. But he has all the tools around him in Cleveland with a star wideout in Braylon Edwards, a warrior of a tight end in Kellen Winslow, Jr., and a solid running game with Jamal Lewis. Last year, Anderson broke out for 3700+ yards passing and 29 TDs (how about another 3 on the ground). He dId throw 19 interceptions, but he was fantastic and I like being able to pick him up in the 6th round.
ROUND 6, 72ND OVERALL: Calvin Johnson, WR, LIONS
While the rookie season may have been disappointing as a result of injuries and a bout of the dropsies, I anticipate Johnson blossoming into a Larry Fitzgerald-type receiver. 808 total yards and five total touchdowns provide reason for optimism when drafting last year’s NFL second overall pick.
ROUND 7, 73RD OVERAL: DEION BRANCH, WR, SEAHAWKS
I am stacking up on the wide receivers right now since they are hit or miss, making depth a necessary ingredient. Deion Branch is the type of player who can rack up big numbers if he can stay healthy and productive. It is hard to imagine that 35-year-old Bobby Engram will remain the No. 1 option for the Seahawks passing attack.
ROUND 7, 74TH OVERALL: DWAYNE BOWE, WR, CHIEFS
I’m adding a third wide receiver to the team and he is the best wide receiver in Kansas City who is not a tight end. Bowe had a great rookie season, despite the turmoil with the Chiefs QBs. Bowe caught 70 balls for 995 yards and 5 TDs. He is the top receiving option in KC other than Gonzalez and has shown that he has great hands.
ROUND 7, 75TH OVERALL: OWEN DANIELS, TE, TEXANS
I waited a little too long to grab a tight end in a mandatory tight end league. However, Owen Daniels found the end zone three times in the last six games, but those were the only three touchdowns he had on the season. Given Houston’s struggles running the ball in 2007, look for another solid year from Daniels in 2008.
ROUND 7, 76th OVERAL: CHRIS CHAMBERS, WR, CHARGERS
The 28th best wide out of 2007 should improve a great deal in 2008. Chris Chambers made the best of a difficult season. He was first the lead option for an awful Miami attack. He averaged 70 yards per game, but never found the end zone for the ‘Phins. However, after six games in South Beach, Chambers was dealt for a second-round pick to the San Diego Chargers. While it took him some time to find his role, he finished the season in fine form, scoring 2 touchdowns with 279 yards in the final four months. Next year, Chambers should be featured as the Chargers No. 1 wide out, which should lead to 1,100 yards and 6 or more touchdowns. This pick makes up for my Coles selection a round earlier.
ROUND 7, 77TH OVERALL: DONOVAN MCNABB, QB, EAGLES
Donovan McNabb – The first QB to find a home on this team and when healthy, one of the game’s best. Last year, McNabb never seemed quite right but he did manage to throw for 3324 yards and 19 TDs in 14 games. Remember this is the guy who was leading all QBS in fantasy production two years ago before a knee injury sidelined him.
ROUND 7, 78TH OVERALL: DEUCE MCALLISTER, RB, SAINTS
Deuce McAllister’s 2007 season was cut short by injury, but don’t be too quick to forget he had 10 scores in 2006. He should remain in a similar role in 2006 assuming he can stay healthy, which is up in the air with two major injuries in the last three years for the Ole Miss product.
ROUND 7, 79th OVERALL: DONALD DRIVER, WR, PACKERS
This draft is only getting better for my squad as steady wide out Donald Driver now becomes my third wide receiver behind Steve Smith and Larry Fitzgerald. Driver amassed 1048 yards in ’07. His fantasy value went south thanks to just two touchdowns, however, considering he averaged over seven touchdowns the previous three seasons, there is reason to believe that his low figure may have been an anomaly. At the very least, 70 receiving yards per game offers plenty of consistency, which is needed from a third receiver.
ROUND 7, 80TH OVERALL: CHICAGO BEARS DEFENSE
The first defense taken in the draft. The D fell on hard times in 2007, but Devin Hester’s ability as returner make this a quality pick. He scored 6 return TDs making it 13 in two seasons. The Bears have to rely on their defense to succeed and the Monsters of the Midway will return to form in 2008.
ROUND 7, 81ST OVERALL: PATRIOTS DEFENSE
New England’s defense was lit up late in the season, but the Pats finished fourth in the NFL in points allowed and finished with six defensive touchdowns on the season. With the Pats capable of putting up a ton of points, it means the opponents become relatively one-dimensional.
ROUND 7, 82nd OVERAL: JAVON WALKER, WR, BRONCOS
Injuries have been an issue for the star wide receiver. After racking up 1084 yards and eight touchdowns in ’06, Walker failed to score a touchdown in eight games played in 2007. When healthy, Walker is a sensational deep route option, which could create an intriguing duo after Brandon Marshall enjoyed a breakout season as an up-the-middle option. If both players can stay healthy, there is potential for each player to rack up more than 1,000 receiving yards with plenty of touchdowns as well. There have also been some trade rumours surrounding Walker during the early off-season.
ROUND 7, 83RD OVERALL: SELVIN YOUNG, RB, BRONCOS
You always like to have a Denver Broncos running back on your roster and Young showed he can be explosive with a pretty impressive rookie year in the Mile High city. He averaged 5.2 yards a carry as he rushed for 729 yards in 2007. He only scored one touchdown so he must have a better nose for end-zone.
ROUND 7, 84TH OVERALL: DONALD LEE, TE, PACKERS
Donald Lee had more touchdowns in 2007 than he had in his entire career before the season started. He had just one touchdown over the first seven games, but recorded five touchdowns over the next six contests. He’s one of Brett Favre’s favourite targets and an excellent, emerging fantasy tight end.
ROUND 8, 85TH OVERALL: LEE EVANS, WR, BILLS
To say that Lee Evans disappointed many fantasy owners in 2007 would be like saying the sky is blue. With the news that Trent Edwards will most likely be the Bills’ starting quarterback in 2008, Evans becomes nothing more than a third-tier fantasy wideout. Still, you could do worse for a WR3.
ROUND 8, 86TH OVERALL: SHAUN ALEXANDER, RB, SEAHAWKS
Remember the times when you were fighting to be in the top-5 just to get this guy. Well, that is no longer the case as Alexander has slipped quite a bit. He doesn’t seem to run with much passion or conviction but that may be because he is nursing various injuries. He is worth the gamble here in Round 8. He average only 3.5 yards a carry in 2007 as he ran for 716 yards and four TDs.
ROUND 8, 87th OVERALL: TRAVIS HENRY, RB, BRONCOS
It was certainly a disappointing season for Henry, as a possible suspension and injury woes followed him throughout the season. Henry’s situation can go both ways. He can either work hard to re-establish himself as a star running back in the NFL. Of course, he can also continue his troublesome ways and face suspension or lose his job to a younger and hungrier player. In the eighth round, he’s worth the risk.
ROUND 8, 88TH OVERALL: VIKINGS DEFENSE
Oops. The Vikings will make for great trade bait, as they are one of the league’s top fantasy defenses. Minnesota was the second-best fantasy defense in a standard Yahoo league, led the NFL with eight defensive touchdowns, and were eighth in the NFL in sacks. Not too bad.
ROUND 8, 89TH OVERALL: DAVID GARRARD, QB, JAGUARS
He has a strong arm and threw only three interceptions in 2007. Garrard took the starting job in Jacksonville and ran with it throwing for 2509 yards and 18 TDs in just 12 games. He had a high ankle sprain in mid-season costing him some significant playing time but he recovered from the injury and never missed a beat. He has a great backfield behind him but one of the weaker wide receiving corps in the NFL. He will still succeed at becoming Team Owens starting QB in 2008.
ROUND 8, 90th OVERALL: THOMAS JONES, RB, JETS
The boring Thomas Jones pick here might prove to be the steal of the draft. Sure, his numbers were down for Jones in ’07, but he still racked up 1,119 rushing yards, and 217 in the air. He only scored two touchdowns thanks to a decrepit offense, however, any hint of improvement for the Jets points to a huge turnaround in fantasy value for Jones in ’08.
ROUND 8, 91ST OVERALL: BUCCANEERS DEFENSE
The Bucs were second in the NFL in yards allowed and third in points allowed this season. Tampa led the league in fumbles forced with 19 and ended the season seventh in a standard Yahoo league.
ROUND 8, 92ND OVERALL: BOBBY ENGRAM, WR, SEAHAWKS
He’s coming off a career-best year and, hopefully, there will be more to come from the 35-year-old wide receiver. He had 93 catches for 1,147 yards and 6 TDs. Always nice to pick up a team’s leading wide receiver in Round 8.
ROUND 8, 93rd OVERALL: DARIUS WALKER, RB, TEXANS
With Willie Parker and Brandon Jacobs on my squad, I believe that the potential is through the roof for big production from my fantasy backfield. However, both players missed games due to injuries, making my third running back a vital part of my club. Last season, I was able to grab Jamal Lewis this late. This time around, I’m gunning for big numbers out of Darius Walker. The Texans rookie ranked 21st in fantasy value of running backs during the final quarter of the ’07 season. Of course, there is some risk involved as Ron Dayne is fresh off a career high in rushing yards, and Ahman Green is expected to return in ’08 with a clean bill of health. In other words, I left myself very thin at the running back position. That puts pressure on me to find the breakout running backs on the waiver wire throughout the season. This is something I accomplished in ’07 by grabbing the likes of Earnest Graham, Maurice Morris, and Ryan Grant.
ROUND 8, 94TH OVERALL: STEELERS DEFENSE
The Steelers defense was shredded towards the end of the season, but still finished first in the NFL in total yards allowed, third against both the run and pass, and second in points allowed. Pittsburgh was 10th in the NFL in fumbles forced. In a league where you’re penalized heavily for points allowed, the Steelers are a top option.
ROUND 8, 95TH OVERALL: SANTANA MOSS, WR, REDSKINS
Yet another wide receiver added and Moss has shown the ability to be a game breaker in this league but he has mostly been breaking the hearts of fantasy owners when he disappears completely for weeks at a time. Moss caught 61 passes for 808 yards and three TDs. He had one of his best weeks in the final week of the season with eight catches for 115 yards and one TD. In his last seven games, he averaged five catches for 73 yards a game and scored three times.
ROUND 8, 96TH OVERALL: GIANTS DEFENSE
The Giants defense is linebacker heavy that needs some help in the secondary. My guess is that Sam Madison will be replaced with a free agent or rookie, and the team’s pressure will continue to maintain some nice sack numbers while the secondary will learn to capitalize with interceptions.
ROUND 9, 97TH OVERALL: SAMMY MORRIS, RB, PATRIOTS
When Laurence Maroney struggled early, Bill Belichick went straight to Sammy Morris. The former Dolphins running back starred in the Patriots backfield averaging 4.5 yards per carry with 3 touchdowns in 6 games, including back-to-back 100-yard performances. Morris will be 31-years old when the season starts, however, a career backup, Morris should have some fresh legs. With Grant and Lynch listed as my starters, Morris should be a fine third option.
ROUND 9, 98TH OVERALL: JERIOUS NORWOOD, RB, FALCONS
A good value pick here since it is not often that you can pick up a guy who averages over six yards a carry for his career in Round 9. Norwood had 613 yards on just 103 carries. The previous season he had 633 yards on just 99 carries. I am hoping that whoever becomes the next head coach for the Falcons will realize the talent that Norwood has and give him a larger role in Atlanta.
ROUND 9, 99TH OVERALL: TERRY GLENN, WR, COWBOYS
Terry Glenn was long forgotten in 2007 due to injury. In 15 games in 2006, he had six touchdowns and 1,047 yards on 70 receptions. He’s on an explosive offense and, assuming he retains a starting role in 2008, will be an undervalued fantasy option in many leagues. Note that Patrick Crayton was selected with the next pick in this draft.
ROUND 9, 100th OVERALL: PATRICK CRAYTON, WR, COWBOYS
In search for some depth, we are now going for some potential breakout players. Crayton has youth and a prolific offense on his side. He will have to keep Terry Glenn at bay for the starting spot, but after a fine breakout there is reason to believe that more production is in store.
ROUND 9, 101ST OVERALL: RAVENS DEFENSE
Needing to fill the need on defense, picking up the Ravens. Despite not being nearly as good in 2007 and having a new coaching staff coming in, it is still the Ravens and their best way to win is with a solid defense and a good running game. They did drop from the top scoring defense to 24th, but I am hoping for a rebound to the 2006 season. They did have three TDs on special teams in 2007.
ROUND 9, 102ND OVERALL: SHAUN MCDONALD, WR, LIONS
Shaun McDonald had two touchdowns in the final three games of the season and emerged as a solid go-to guy on the Lions with Roy Williams out. However, with Mike Martz sent packing, his targets may decrease dramatically, so draft with caution in 2008. The Lions will also focus on improving the ground game headed into next season.
ROUND 9, 103rd OVERALL: INDIANAPOLIS, DEFENSE
The Colts ranked two points away from sixth place in fantasy value in ’07. When you consider that Dwight Freeney missed seven games, you realize that the Colts can be much better in 2008. With Bob Sanders in the mix, the team has learned to stop the run. Their pass defense was incredible in ’07 suggesting that by 2008, the Colts might offer the best defense in the league. Hats off to Tony Dungy.
ROUND 9, 104TH OVERALL: DERRICK MASON, WR, RAVENS
This wily veteran set a career-high with 103 receptions in 2007. He scored five times and tallied 1087 yards receiving. Nothing explosive, but very steady. A good value pick here in Round 9.
ROUND 9, 105TH OVERALL: KEVIN WALTER, WR, TEXANS
Kevin Walter emerged as one the top receivers in the NFL with Andre Johnson sidelined. He did cool off quite a bit with AJ in the lineup, so beware. For a third receiver on my fantasy squad, he has a tremendous amount of upside.
ROUND 9, 106th OVERALL: REGGIE WILLIAMS, WR, JAGUARS
To draft a wide out who racked up 10 touchdowns the previous season is a steal! Sure, Williams only racked up 629 yards receiving, but he enters 2008 in his prime (25 years old), plus he’s the most established scoring threat in the receiving corps. Another year of growth and improvement can make him a top-15 wide out in 2008.
ROUND 9, 107TH OVERALL: BROWNS DEFENSE
They gave up tons of points but they did get much stronger at the end of the year. In fact they shut out the Buffalo Bills in week 16, but the reason for selecting the Browns defense is Joshua Cribbs who is one of the most dangerous kick returners in the game. He scored 3 times last year. Mel Tucker is the new defensive coordinator in Cleveland after the Browns fired Todd Grantham. This pick was made for Cribbs, but with San Diego Defense on the board, this pick was a bit of insurance.
ROUND 9, 108TH OVERALL: COWBOYS DEFENSE
The Cowboys defense came on strong against the run in 2007, finishing sixth in the NFL. With the addition of Tank Williams, the unit will be even stronger in 2008. It’s a group of solid, talented veterans who get to beat up on Eli Manning and Jason Campbell twice a year. I’m lovin’ it.
ROUND 10, 109TH OVERALL: BERNARD BERRIAN, WR, BEARS
Bernard Berrian will be a free agent this off-season. He’ll either be slapped with a franchise tag by the Bears or sent somewhere else. The latter would help his fantasy value tremendously as a home run threat. San Diego, Miami, and the New York Jets would make for good fits for this talented wideout. Don’t let his 11 touchdowns in the last two years fool you. If you had Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton throwing you the ball, you would underachieve too.
ROUND 10, 110TH OVERALL: MATT LEINART, QB, CARDINALS
The third QB to be picked up by this fantasy squad. He is a talent and you have to love theCardinals offense with James, Fitzgerald, Boldin and Pope. He gained a big vote of confidence by the Cardinals coaching staff when they announced that he would start as long as he’s healthy in 2008.
ROUND 10, 111th OVERALL: ELI MANNING, QB, GIANTS
An unbelievable post-season has this pick looking more and more like a steal. For three consecutive years, Manning has tossed at least 23 touchdowns. The flaws come with the interceptions, and his lack of mobility. This past season, Manning tossed 20 interceptions. The former Ole Miss Rebel seems to be forming a connection with former USC Trojans wide out Steve Smith. I believe that is a foundation that will be built upon in 2008.
ROUND 10, 112TH OVERALL: DESHAUN FOSTER, RB, PANTHERS
DeShaun Foster finished with 876 yards on the ground and three touchdowns. He showed a ton of promise early on in the season, but hasn’t topped three scores in his career. However, his 247 rushing attempts were a career high, while his five fumbles plagued his effectiveness. Still, for a third running back, you could do worse.
ROUND 10, 113TH OVERALL: JON KITNA, QB, LIONS
The Detroit signal-caller was bold in 2007 as he predicted 10 wins for the Lions. He was backing that talk up before WR Roy Williams went down to injury and Detroit bottomed out yet again. It will be interesting to see how he fares now considering Mike Martz left Motown to take the offensive reins in San Francisco. Kitna threw for 4,068 yards and 18 TDs but for a second straight year, he committed more interceptions than touchdowns.
ROUND 10, 114th OVERALL: ROBBIE BIRONAS, K, TITANS
It’s time to go hunting for a kicker, and Robbie Bironas is the best in the business. The kicker is helped out by two qualities. He kicks for a team that struggles to score touchdowns, often settling for field goals. Plus, he has one of the most powerful legs in recent memory. That explains his sensational fantasy value.
ROUND 10, 115TH OVERALL: ADAM VINITIERI, K, COLTS
Adam Vinitieri is an elite fantasy kicker and, despite struggling through 2007, remains on the Colts for 2008. He’s notched at least 100 points in every season in the NFL and attempted a career high 51 PAT’s in 2007. He was 0-3 in field goals longer than 40 yards, which is a little concerning.
ROUND 10, 116TH OVERALL: TED GINN JR., WR, DOLPHINS
The Miami Dolphins speedster showed what he could do at the end of the year when
fully healthy. He had a decent rookie campaign and was dynamite in the return game. He had 34 receptions for 420 yards and two TDs. In his final game he caught a career high seven passes. If Miami can sort out their QB situation then I may have added a game-breaker very late in the draft. Certainly worth the roll of the dice.
ROUND 10, 117TH OVERALL: GREEN BAY PACKERS, DEFENSE
They might not have had the best success against Plaxico Burress in the playoffs, but the Packers surprise season was as much a result of the defense as it was the offense. The good news is that they have some youth on the defensive side, and now that the offense also features a fine running back, in 2008, they should keep the point totals low, while sustaining respectable turnover and sack numbers.
ROUND 10, 118TH OVERALL: D.J. HACKETT, WR, SEAHAWKS
D.J. Hackett was a beast when healthy in 2007. In Weeks 9-11, he notched 21 catches and three touchdowns. He also turned in a monster 6-101-1 performance in the Wild Card round of the playoffs against the Washington Redskins. He has two major drawbacks. First, his health is definitely up in the air after a rocky 2007. Second, he’s one of four viable receivers on the Seahawks, meaning his receptions may be limited.
ROUND 10, 119TH OVERALL: DARRELL JACKSON, WR, 49ERS
He used to be a big time target in Seattle with the tendency to suffer too many dropped passes. He did not do much in San Fran this year, but then again did anybody really? He caught 46 balls for 497 yards and 3 TDs. A good acquisition at this point in the draft and he should have more value now that Mike Martz will be running the offense.
ROUND 10, 120TH OVERALL: TONY SCHEFFLER, TE, BRONCOS
Despite signing Daniel Graham, Tony Scheffler again evolved as the favorite target at the tight end for Jay Cutler. After just 161 receiving yards in the first half of the season, Scheffler responded with 388 yards and 3 touchdowns in the final 8 games. Scheffler is a fine starting tight end for any fantasy team.
ROUND 11, 121ST OVERALL: LEONARD POPE, TE, CARDINALS
To compensate for a less than stellar starting tight end, I grabbed a second tight end who could be in for a huge 2008. At 6’8, Pope matched Scheffler with five touchdowns, despite missing three games. Pope should improve some more in his third season as he continues to learn the game. He may also be a fine crutch for developing quarterback Matt Leinart.
ROUND 11, 122ND OVERALL: CHESTER TAYLOR, RB, VIKINGS
A hip injury opened the door for Adrian Peterson, but Taylor showed how good he was when he scored three TDs while filling for an injured Peterson. This guy ran for over 1200 yards in 2006, so he has the ability to post big numbers on a consistent basis. Even getting less carries as a result of Peterson, Taylor still managed 844 yards (5.4
yards per carry) and 7 TDs. A great pick here especially if Peterson succumbs to injury.
ROUND 11, 123RD OVERALL: MICHAEL TURNER, RB, CHARGERS
Michael Turner is a free agent this off-season and is a nice risk/reward selection here in the 11th round. He may find a starting gig elsewhere, as was rumoured in the 2007 off-season, or he may remain as a backup in San Diego. He’ll be a forgotten commodity before he’s actually signed with another team. Detroit, Houston, and Cincinnati are possible landing spots.
ROUND 11, 124th OVERALL: STEPHEN GOSTKOWSKI, K, PATRIOTS
He is simply the kicker of the best offense. That means plenty of extra points and easy field goals. The one drawback is the lack of 40 and 50 yard field goals, but I’d trade those big plays for the consistency that can only be found in New England.
ROUND 11, 125TH OVERALL: CEDRIC BENSON, RB, BEARS
One of the biggest disappointments of 2006, but the former UT running back has the talent to succeed in Chicago. Remember the Bears moved Thomas Jones to make way for Benson. In 11 games, he did manage 674 yards and 4 TDs. Another nice addition this late in the draft. I just hope the Bears don’t find another alternative at the running back position.
ROUND 11, 126TH OVERALL: NATE BURLESON, WR, SEAHAWKS
Nate Burleson is a high-upside pick on a team that loves to throw the ball. He led the team by finding the end zone nine times this season. He finished the season with five touchdowns in the last five games. However, with four talented wideouts on the Seahawks, his fantasy value may be limited.
ROUND 11, 127th OVERALL: ANTHONY GONZALEZ, WR, COLTS
Injuries hindered this Colts’ wideout during the meat of the season when the Colts needed him most to fill in for an injured Marvin Harrison and Dallas Clark. However, once Gonzalez got healthy, he justified the Colts early selection. In five second-half games, he compiled 369 yards and three touchdowns. Even with a healthy Harrison on board in 2008, Gonzalez should play a prominent role for the Colts offense.
ROUND 11, 128TH OVERALL: RUDI JOHNSON, RB, BENGALS
Rudi began the year as arguably one of the top-five backs in the league and ended it by being possibly the second-best back on his team. Injuries sabotaged his 2007 campaign – one which saw him rush for 497 yards and 3 TDs. The positive is that before missing Weeks 16 and 17, he ran for 230 yards and three TDs in his final four games. A nice gamble this late in the draft.
ROUND 11, 129TH OVERALL: ISSAC BRUCE, WR, RAMS
The Reverend may be elsewhere in 2008, which makes his fantasy for the first time in years a relative unknown. Bruce was slowed by injuries over the 2007 season but he still had 733 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games. If he remains on the Rams, he’s still a decent fantasy fill in; if not, I’d shy away from him.
ROUND 11, 130TH OVERALL: SAN DIEGO CHARGERS, DEFENSE
This might surprise you, but the Chargers defense racked at the top in fantasy leagues last season. With Shawne Merriman leading the rush, you know the defense will pile up some sacks. The surprise, was the play of second-year cornerback Antonio Cromartie, who led the league with 10 interceptions. With youth on their side, you can expect another fine season by the Chargers in 2008.
ROUND 11, 131ST OVERALL: JABAR GAFFNEY, WR, PATRIOTS
I hope the Pats continue their passing game proficiency because Gaffney certainly
played strong at the end of the season. He had 36 receptions for 449 yards and 5 TDs. Pretty solid numbers for a fifth or sixth offensive option on New England. Worth a pick this late in the draft.
ROUND 11, 132ND OVERALL: NICK FOLK, K, COWBOYS
Nick Folk was one of the best fantasy kickers in 2007. Behind a high-powered Dallas offense that ranked second in points scored, Folk missed just two field goals the entire season.
ROUND 12, 133RD OVERALL: Warrick Dunn, RB, FALCONS
Warrick Dunn may be just that: done. His 227 rushing attempts and 720 yards were the lowest since 2003. He’s had 11 touchdowns on the ground over the past three seasons combined. You have to figure the Falcons will give Jerious Norwood a chance to prove himself; it’s only a matter of time.
ROUND 12, 134TH OVERALL: Jason Elam, K, BRONCOS
He kicks in the rarified air of Denver and has been one of the league’s most consistent for years. Any questions?
ROUND 12, 135th OVERALL: Mason Crosby, K, PACKERS
The rookie kicker only missed one from within 40 yards last year, plus he nailed three 50+ field goals. It was also a good year for the Packers offense, as he nailed all 48 extra point attempts. Even in that Ice Bowl against the Giants, he nailed both field goals, including one from 37 yards out.
ROUND 12, 136TH OVERALL: Nate Kaeding, K, CHARGERS
Nate Kaeding had a down year in 2007 after a career year in 2006. Still, he’s on a high-scoring AFC offense and attempted 27 field goals this season.
ROUND 12, 137TH OVERALL: Shayne Graham, K, BENGALS
A very solid kicker who was 31 of 34 and a perfect 37/37 on PATs. He has been consistent and if the Bengals can find the magic once again on offense, then he is very nice to have on the squad.
ROUND 12, 138th OVERALL: Matt Schaub, QB, TEXANS
It was either him or Philip Rivers, but with their best weapons coming at the wide receiver spot for the Texans, the less-proven Schaub gets the pick. Though there weren’t many moments that Schaub shared with Andre Johnson, when they were both on the field, the seemed to form a dynamic duo.
ROUND 12, 139TH OVERALL: Brady Quinn, QB, BROWNS
Brady Quinn is another high-upside pick, assuming he actually starts in 2008. What the Browns will do with Derek Anderson in the off-season is unknown. He’s certainly tradable, but that assumes another team is ready to pony up a pair of first-round picks. Anderson may remain a Brown, leaving Quinn’s value as non-existent.
ROUND 12, 140TH OVERALL: Neil Rackers, K, CARDINALS
I needed to fill my spot at place-kicker and Rackers gets it done in Arizona. He has certainly fallen off the pace that he set two years ago when he connected on 40-of-42 field goals, but he did score 110 points on 21-of-30 last season. I’m hoping for a return to his 2005 form.
ROUND 12, 141st OVERALL: Jake Delhomme, QB, PANTHERS
Just when you thought that Jake Delhomme was simply mediocre, we learned the true definition by his replacement David Carr. The void left behind when Delhomme got injured actually increases his value in my book. I see both Steve Smith and Delhomme returning to form in 2008.
ROUND 12, 142ND OVERALL: Shaun Hill, QB, 49ERS
Shaun Hill finished the season strong for the fledgling San Francisco 49ers. He had five touchdowns in three starts and showed promise. He’s an unrestricted free agent in the off-season and may have the most success if he can remain with San Francisco. With Mike Nolan remaining head coach, Alex Smith may remain at quarterback, but Hill remains a pick with some nice upside.
ROUND 12, 143RD OVERALL: Robbie Gould, K, BEARS
I needed a kicker and this guy has been one of the best for the past 2 years. He made 31
of 36 kicks last year after converting 32 of 36 in 2006. Nice consistency and that is what you like from a kicker. In addition, with an offense that struggles to score touchdowns, he gets his opportunities for field goals.
ROUND 12, 144TH OVERALL: Jason Hanson, K, LIONS
In need of a kicker, Jeff Hanson was a logical choice. He racked in the sixth most fantasy points in 2007. The team’s struggles did hurt his value in the second half of the season, however, considering the youth in the receiving game, the Lions can still return to a high-scoring team next season.
ROUND 13, 145TH OVERALL: Kurt Warner, QB, CARDINALS
With Tom Brady already on board, this is a low-risk, high-reward final pick of the draft. Kurt Warner put up Brady-like touchdown and yards numbers in the second half of the season. While it is more than likely that the Cardinals will turn to Matt Leinart to lead the offense, if Warner does get the nod, he is suddenly leaded with fantasy value.
ROUND 13, 146TH OVERALL: WASHINGTON REDSKINS DEFENSE
I needed a defense and I went with the Washington Redskins, despite the loss of the great Sean Taylor. Their defense allowed under 20 points a game (remember the Patriots tore them up for 52) and allowed running backs only 91 yards a game. They had 14 interceptions on the year and ran one of those back for TD. They could use better special teams, but I have my defense.
ROUND 13, 147TH OVERALL: Joe Jurevicius, WR, BROWNS
Joe Jurevicius isn’t a particularly sexy option, as Lead Expert Rob Shaw would say, but he did score three touchdowns in his first four games this season. The wheels then fell off the bus, but he remains a starting wideout on what has become a high-powered offense. However, he’s only scored three touchdowns in each of the last two seasons.
ROUND 13, 148th OVERALL: Reggie Brown, WR, EAGLES
Perhaps we are all looking to avoid him as a source of punishment after last year’s bummer. However, Brown does have skills and it doesn’t look like the Eagles will bring anyone else in any time soon. He did score all four of his touchdowns in the second half, and was 20 yards within 800 on the season. Not bad for a 13th round pick.
ROUND 13, 149TH OVERALL: Philip Rivers, QB, CHARGERS
We shall see if the knee injury derails this youngster’s career. He had a slow start in 2007, but managed to finish strong and showed some exceptional leadership in the playoffs. He needs to learn to control his emotions and stop being an idiot who jabs with fans and Jay Cutler during games. He had 3,152 yards passing and 21 TDs. He has a good arm and if he gets his head more into the game and is healthy then I found myself a nice quarterback at the end of the draft.
ROUND 13, 150TH OVERALL: Donte` Stallworth, WR, PATRIOTS
Despite Tom Brady throwing for 50 touchdowns in 2007, Stallworth was the recipient of just three touchdowns. That’s why he was avoided until the final round of our draft. However, if an injury plagues Randy Moss or Wes Welker, his role will increase dramatically.
ROUND 13, 151st OVERALL: David Patten, WR, SAINTS
This is a bit of a safe pick, sine late round picks are usually reserved for youngsters with upside. Patten doesn’t fit that mold, considering he is 33-years old and fresh off a resurgence with the Saints. Once known for his speed, Patten has evolved into a fine role player. He should have a chance to gather 800 yards with a few touchdowns.
ROUND 13, 152ND OVERALL: Jason Campbell, QB, REDSKINS
The former Auburn quarterback looked very good at times and seemed to start to grasp the idea of quarterbacking in the NFL. In 13 games, he threw for 2700 yards and 12 TDs. He really showed what he could bring when he threw for 649 yards and three TDs in a two-week span versus the Cowboys and the Buccaneers. He’s a good backup on this squad to Garrard.
ROUND 13, 153RD OVERALL: Sage Rosenfels, QB, TEXANS
Not that he’ll be the starter in 2007, but Sage Rosenfels was a quality fantasy play with Matt Schaub sidelined. He found the end zone eight times in four starts (seven through the air and one incredibly slow scamper on national television). However, Schaub is the starter in Houston.
ROUND 13, 154th OVERALL: Michael Jenkins, WR, FALCONS
This is the type of pick that supposed to be made in the final round of a draft. Jenkins has the physical tools, which explains why he was the 29th pick overall in the 2004 draft. However, the Falcons wide out has never enjoyed a big season, partially because the Falcons offense has been ground-oriented. Without Michael Vick, the Falcons utilized a passing attack last season, and Jenkins established a career high 532 yards. If a decent quarterback can be drafted or brought in, that number can double in 2008.
ROUND 13, 155TH OVERALL: Sidney Rice, WR, VIKINGS
Probably the best of the Minnesota wide receivers, which should tell you all you need to know about Rice. He did catch 31 balls for 396 yards and 4 TDs. He is the team’s top receiver so any time you can pick up a team’s best wide out with the last draft pick, then I say go ahead.
ROUND 13, 156TH OVERALL: Tarvaris Jackson, QB, VIKINGS
Tarvaris Jackson finished the season strong, notching five touchdowns in the last two games of the season. He’s a much better fantasy quarterback than he is in reality and finished with 260 rushing yards on the season. For a 13th round pick, you could do worse.
