Alright folks, it’s almost that special time of year! Only 29 more days until the football season begins. Which means fantasy drafts are right around the corner. Now is the time to start prepping for drafts. Here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Check Coaching Changes
Coaching changes play an intricate part in how a team is going to use their players, as well as how comfortable a team will be with their playbook.
A perfect example: Last year the Denver Broncos signed Gary Kubiak from Baltimore who attempted to have Peyton Manning play under center more than he was comfortable with.
That was not to blame for all of Peyton’s struggles at the beginning of the season, but as time went on they adjusted to more of a pistol styled offense leading to more success.
Certain players just don’t fit in every system. Demarco Murray went from a rushing leader to a rushing disaster under the influence of Chip Kelly.
Need I say more?
2. Review Depth Charts and Injury Reports Daily
Injury reports have a similar effect, not only on a player’s draft stock, but in what you can expect them to produce. Certain injuries tend to linger like Alshon Jeffery’s hamstring problems, for example. Jeffery has potential not only to win you a championship, but also to lose you one because you never know when he will be ready to step on the field.
Reviewing depth charts is key both before, during, and after the preseason. Just like coaches, players are signed and traded in the off season. Getting to know the depth charts will help you gauge a player’s value.
Mohamed Sanu is going from an overcrowded offense in Cincinnati, with players like A.J Green, Marvin Jones and Tyler Eifert, to Atlanta where he will secure a starting position.
Remember 2014 when both AJ Green and Marvin Jones were injured? With less mouths to feed he can be used to his full potential playing opposite Julio Jones.
3. Starter, Handcuff, or Sleeper
Position battles and job security will greatly impact fantasy value and upside. No one wants to be the guy who drafts a backup running back thinking he has the starting job when he is destined to ride the pine for the season. Position battles also help to determine who the handcuffs are to your starting cast.
With Arian Foster now playing in Miami, the position battle has begun between Foster and Jay Ajayi.
Last year Le’Veon Bell was suspended two games and could face a similar fate this season. During that time DeAngelo Williams produced the best numbers of any fantasy running back in the league. He also had continued success after Bell was injured in week eight against Cincinnati. Not bad for a guy most people overlooked, or who was drafted towards the end of all drafts.
Thomas Rawls and David Johnson were another set of running backs that rose to the occasion when given the opportunity.
Many a championship have been won on the backs of handcuffs.
Good luck!!!
Comments 1
good stuff buck…coaching changes is not talked about enough in the fantasy football circles