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Subject: RIFC 2017: Rationale Collection Thread

Posted by: Guru - [330592710] Sat, Aug 26, 2017, 17:38

We'll use the same process for collecting rationales as last year.

You have a choice. You may either post your rationale in the comment area next to the associated pick on the MFL draft page,

- or -

you may post each rationale in this thread. Anything posted here will "trump" anything posted on MFL.

Regardless, each rationale is due no later than two rounds in arrears. I understand that, especially when queues are used, staying within two rounds will be difficult. However, please try to stay relatively current.

I will set up a master thread for all Rationales that will be organized in the proper draft sequence. So don't worry about the sequence here.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 10:26

1.03 Brown, Antonio PIT WR
Draft Position #3: Only slots 1,2,3, and 6 were available when I chose. I prefer a late first round pick because I think this is an advantage with third round reversed. Wanted to pick a top WR in the first round, and thought slot 3 would allow me to pick the top WR with RBs Johnson and Bell probably being picked 1 and 2. When I chose this spot, I was initially leaning towards picking Beckham, but the unknown extent of his ankle injury scared me away. Brown has been one of the top fantasy WRs the past few years and has been rated by many experts as the top fantasy WR this season.

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 14:12

1.12. Jordan Howard
Had first pick of position and took later position that has been popular in past drafts. Was looking for top RB or WR. I was looking for Demarco or Melvin Gordon but the Ezekial suspension did not allow that to happen. I probably would have taken AJ Green here if he had fallen. Left with next tier RB and despite dire predictions Howard most likely 1st round bust probably due to Bears terrible offense and possible rookie QB took him over Ajayi and Fournette.

deepsnapper
ID: 27762113
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 14:36

01.01 Johnson, David AZ RB
Johnson is w/o a doubt the man. Johnson's 2118 total yards and 20 touchdowns--including 80 receptions - Speaks for itself, he's a complete back and deserves the #1 selection.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 15:37

1.10 Mike Evans WR TB
Draft Position #10: I wanted a late first round pick, due to 3RR, and the fact that I saw still decent value at the end of the first round.
Player: Maybe I’ve following the hype train too much of Hard Knocks? But, on that offence, with that QB, they have a great rapport, and plenty of opportunities to score. He’s looked a little “off” so far in preseason in the games I’ve seen… but that’s probably just shaking off the rust. Alternately, I was expecting maybe Shady to be available here… but considering the mess that is the Bills offence right now, I think I’m happy that I didn’t have to make that decision.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 19:33

Draft position: 6th
I was last to choose my draft slot, which meant I got stuck with the 6th pick. I probably would have either wanted somewhere in the 9th-12th range or 1st overall, but I never had a reason to look into it in any detail.

1.06 Odell Beckham Jr: WR, NYG
I had very little interest in McCoy/Freeman/Gordon, so I figured I'd be deciding between Odell and Mike Evans at pick 6, and sure enough I was. They each have some minor injury issues at the moment and are on a team that has added talent at WR2 and TE.

I think the end result is that both players will lose 10-20 targets, but will have higher efficiency on their targets. Odell also seems likely to lose a few red zone TDs, but I can see him potentially having a monster season if he is no longer facing constant double coverage. Evans seems likely to lose some yardage from last year but I view his output as less volatile.

After analyzing them for a while, they still seemed roughly equal to me, so I went with Odell because it will be more fun for me to root for him.

deepsnapper
ID: 27762113
Sun, Aug 27, 2017, 19:55

2.14, TY Montgomery, GBP RB
Most upside of remaining running backs, able to run effectively and is an outstanding receiving backs. Only concern is injury or overuse. Three down back.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 00:16

Draft position #4
When choosing the slot I thought I'd have a choice of Bell, Brown or OBJ. Then I watched the Giants preseason game and saw OBJ's injury. Didn't look good. I should have chosen the #3 slot...

1.04 Julio Jones, WR, ATL
Ok so I had it down to Jones and OBJ. Well if there wasn't a potential injury to consider it would be a no brainer. I still think OBJ has the potential to outscore Jones, but I went with Jones because I think I'll get 16 weeks out of him. Oh and there's the case of the fact that I told my dad on draft day that his QB will be a HoFer.

twolves
ID: 862838
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 08:26

2.03 Todd Gurley
Had looked at WR here but had not expected Grumpy's gang to take 2 WR. I liked Gurley as better value with upside if Goff and offensive line better this year than WR available.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 08:42

1.02 Le'Veon Bell, RB, Pitt
Didn't think too much about this pick. He's in the midst of a contract dispute, but there doesn't seem to be much doubt that he'll be in the lineup week 1. He and Johnson are head and shoulders above the rest of the field of RB - entrenched in their team's offensive strategy and putting up consistent numbers week-in and week-out.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 08:58

2.05 Ezekiel Elliot RB DAL
After having gone WR with my first pick, it would have been very difficult to not go RB here. The suspension is obviously what drove him down to this point, but he shouldn’t face any competition for snaps when he returns. So I should have a TOP 3 RB heading into the fantasy playoffs. Potentially, if the suspension gets reduced or overturned, then this could be a value price. Alternately, I considered Gronk here… but again, with a first round WR, I couldn’t see that working out too well for myself.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 09:08

2.12 Cooper, Amari OAK WR
My plan was to choose 2 WRs and 1 RB in first three rounds. Chose 2nd WR because I thought I could get a RB with close to the same value in round 3. I was hoping Dez Bryant would be available. Cooper had over 1000 yards in each of his first two seasons. I think he will score more TDs this season as he continues to mature. I also considered picking T.Y. Hilton.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 09:32

2.11 Lamar Miller, RB, HOU
With a WR in round 1 I'm clearly going to go RB in ruins 2. With who was on the board Miller gave the strongest case for being drafted. With a rookie QB and a strong defense I fully expect Miller to be leaned on heavily. There's some weapons around him too, so it's not like teams can stack the box with 8 men.

I also considered Hunt, Lynch and McCaffrey in this spot.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 09:48

2.13 T.Y. Hilton, WR, Ind

I'm sure part of the reason he dropped as much as he did was because of the uncertainty of the QB situation in Indy. Caused me to hesitate a bit, but hopefully luck will prevail and the main man in Indy makes a quick comeback. If not, Hilton will still likely be the go-to target. Had contemplated going for Tyreek Hill here, but Hilton should be less of a risky pick, and it's possible Hill will make it all the way back to me.

3.13 Allen Robinson, WR, Jac

Surveying what was available, it seemed like the best players available were WR. There were several that I had ranked similarly. I opted for Robinson over Demaryius Thomas and Terelle Pryor - who incidentally went back-to-back after my selection. Robinson is two years removed from a 14 TD season, is the youngest of the three, and is a serious redzone target, so opted to go with him.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 10:17

3.12 Mixon, Joe CIN RB
Wanted to get my first RB with this pick. Mixon is a rookie with first round talent who dropped in draft because of contoversy. Thought he was the best RB available. Can both run and catch passes out of the backfield and could become the Bengals every down back.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 15:30

3.05 Tyreek (the freak) Hill WR KC
He’s now the clear #1 WR, on an offense that has been improving over the last few years. This guy is fast and makes all kinds of plays all over the field. With the workload that he’s expected to carry, he should be able to give a lot of consistency for this position. I also considered heavily Hunt with this pick (went next pick to Guru). I would have preferred the RB for position scarcity, but overall points I think will be too hard to ignore with Hill.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 16:35

2.09 Rob Gronkowski - TE, NE

For this pick, I was debating between Gronk and Tyreek Hill. I don't trust Hill to repeat his punt return stats from last year, and he'll likely lose his kick return job. I think he still has massive potential now that he's officially the Chiefs' #1 WR, but I also expect that opposing teams will have studied him in the offseason and will be much better at limiting his big plays. I'm worried that he just won't have enough touches to put up a lot of yards unless he has a whole bunch of 80 yard TDs again.

Gronk is injury prone, but when he starts, he's a clear outlier at TE. Traditionally, he has been thrown to slightly less often than the 2nd tier of TEs, but with the Patriots' most targeted WR injured, Gronk may get a few more looks. A fully healthy season would likely mean 1200+ yards and 12-16 TDs.

When... I mean *if* when he misses a few games, hopefully they won't be during the fantasy playoffs.

3.09 Marshawn Lynch - RB, OAK

For this pick, I was debating Marshawn, JJ Watt, and Keenan Allen.

I'm in the camp that believes Keenan Allen's injuries have been flukes and that he will have a monster year. I want to have him on my team. Of course, he's returning from his 2nd major injury and has never played a full season. While he was on pace for 134 receptions and 1450 yards in 2015, his 2014 numbers had him on pace for under 1000 yards. Given his low yards per catch, picking him now is assuming he will get an obscene amount of targets (like the 180 he was on pace for in 2015). There's also an outside chance that he could drop to my next pick.

Watt, like Gronk, is a freak athlete with injury concerns who could easily be several points per game better than 2nd place at his position. I got burned by him last year, though, and going through two major injuries could definitely remove some of his abilities. I'll pass for now and hope he's still there in round 4.

Marshawn has plenty of issues too: he hasn't played for over a year, he's 31, and there are rumors that the Raiders plan to limit his workload to 200 carries so that he's fresh for the playoffs. Who knows: he might even decide to retire again mid-season.

But 18 RBs had already been picked, and did you see what every single Raiders RB did with their touches last year? The main one, who by all accounts was terrible, put up over 1,000 total yards and 12 TDs on only 195 carries (and 42 targets). The backups averaged 5.4 and 5.9 yards per carry.

The Raiders QB threw the ball 42 times inside their opponents' 10 last year, 4th most in the NFL
He completed 37% of his passes inside the 10 last year, 2nd worst in the NFL
The Raiders had only 32 rushing attempts inside their opponents' 10 last year, 15th in the NFL
Those 32 carries still resulted in 13 TDs, 7th most in the NFL
The offense is expected to be even better this year
Marshawn should get almost all of the goal line carries

I "still" hadn't drafted a RB, and though I usually like to wait several rounds in RIFC and scoop up the bottom tier starters, Marshawn Lynch's upside at RB 19 was just too good of a value to pass up. Like Odell, Marshawn is a player that will be fun to have on my team, and he is somebody I'll be proud to root for.

twolves
ID: 862838
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 20:34

3.03 D. Hopkins WR
AS the late second round and early 3rd round played out, I had WR pencilled in for choice. It came down to D. Baldwin and D. Hopkins when it got close. Hopefully the Houston QB situation works out better this year. I was very tempted to take another RB as I really liked the 4 taken right after my pick.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 23:19

4.13 Jimmy Graham, TE, Sea

Still don't think it's time to go for a QB or a defensive player. Saw this as an opportunity to grab a top TE before their ranks thinned. Put a one-man queue into MFL of Jimmy Graham, but would likely have gone with Olsen if Graham didn't make it to me (turns out Olsen already was off the board, and Graham was available).

5.02 Mark Ingram, RB, NO

Still needed another running back with only Bell on the roster currently. Not a lot of options that don't have some serious doubts associated with them. For Ingram it is some intense competition for carries in New Orleans. It seems he is expected to the primary ball carrier, but is essentially in a RBBC situation.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 23:23

4.05 JJ Watt DE HOU
There are very few (Gronk & JJ) players that stand out at their position, where they will score significantly above the rest of their peers. That’s my reason for grabbing him here… I didn’t think that this group would allow him to slip any later, especially since Khalil Mack is no longer DL eligible on MFL. The 3rd & 4th rounds has had a lot of WRs go off, so I’m glad I grabbed my targets early. It’s a long wait till my next pick now at this point… here’s hoping some of my next targets make it through.

twolves
ID: 862838
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 23:24

4.03 Devante Adams WR

The run of WRs and Kelce did not make choice easy. One pick away again my pick got taken. DeVante had a high TD rate last year and hope he can continue trend since he has a good QB. My first 3 picks the QBs were all sketchy.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 23:26

3.11 Keenan Allen, WR, LAC
Ok confession time. I had to look to see who LAC was. I originally was thinking "wait the Clippers?" Then I remembered the Chargers moved to LA...

So back to why I choose Allen. He's the #1 WR in a pass happy offense. Frankly I don't remember the rest of who I was thinking about. I think Crabtree and Pryor were two of them.

twolves
ID: 862838
Mon, Aug 28, 2017, 23:30

5.12 Russel Wilson QB
A few of top QB were taken, so felt good time to grab one I like here. I think he will have a much better season this year assuming he stays healthy and end up in top 5-6.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 00:45

4.09 Luke Kuechly - LB, CAR

As I went to bed, 6 teams were still ahead of me, but 4 of them had set predraft picks, so I assumed that I would be up to draft fairly early in the morning (particularly since I'm not in the eastern time zone), and I wanted to sleep in.

There were 2 players that I considered to be on a tier above the rest: JJ Watt and Drew Brees. Behind them was Greg Olsen and a massive tier of RB/WR muck. Having taken Gronk already, Olsen was less appealing (though he would have made a serviceable WR3/TE and would have provided nice injury backup).

I didn't want to put Olsen in that situation with such an early pick, so I decided to make Kuechly the 3rd person in my queue: I was determined to draft somebody here who could be a real difference maker and potentially lead their position.

Kuechly's concussion history worries me, but when he has been on the field, he has reliably been the highest-scoring IDP option or close to it. Last season he was on pace for 185 points, which would have been best in the league again.

I'm not very satisfied with this pick, and I was frustrated not to get Watt or Brees, but who knows: last year I remember being really frustrated that Arian Foster was taken right ahead of me and I had to settle for Alec Ogletree instead.

5.06 Kelvin Benjamin - WR, CAR

I woke up to find out that 17 picks had happened in less than 2 hours, and that I had timed out. Luckily, we were in that massive tier of RB/WR muck, and the players drafted after my timeout weren't people I would have picked.

From that pile of muck I had to choose somebody. I didn't fully trust any of the RB options, and there were still plenty remaining, so I narrowed in on WR. I was looking for somebody who could potentially become a top tier WR but who I could also rely on to at least be startable: Kelvin Benjamin fit the bill.

Benjamin was returning from a major injury last year, Cam Newton had a disaster of a season, and Benjamin's targets dropped from 146 to 118. Even so, he was able to put up 941 yards and 7 TDs over 15 full games, which was enough to finish as a top 25 WR in this format.

I have to imagine that Newton will be better this year, and it's Benjamin's 3rd season as a pro, so hopefully it's time for him to really break out. Even if not, I took Benjamin as the 26th WR, and his height and playmaking ability should keep his TD levels high. I think it's safe to count on him to finish at least in the mid 20s again.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 09:18

4.12 Olsen, Greg CAR TE
Was not sure where to go with this pick. No WR or RB stood out. Was not ready to take a QB yet, and I don't like to take IDPs this early. Reliable TEs are difficult to find, so I decided to select Olsen. Olsen had over 1000 yards in each of the last 3 seasons and has averaged about 5 TDs. I expect similar production this season.

5.3 Winston, Jameis TBB QB
After Carr was taken, I was afraid there would be a QB run. Did not want to wait 22 more picks to get one. Winston has been an average fantasy QB his first two seasons. I expect his numbers to improve this year as he matures and with the addition of playmakers DeSean Jackson and O.J. Howard.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 09:58

5.10 Landon Collins S NYG
Copy/Paste 4.05? He was far and away the best DB in the league from a league scoring perspective. Tons of tackles, and all over the field. It’s a little early to be taking a DB ( A lot early?!), but I think he will justify the spot. I have my eyes on a couple RBs for this slot as well… hopefully, one of them will still be there after the turn. As I’m writing this, I notice Abdullah goes with the very next pick… that’s one I was targeting gone.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 10:48

6.05 Bilal Powell, RB NYJ
I think the season should open in a timeshare that is in a run heavy offense, but as the season continues, I think Powell will be supplanting the 32 year old. I may not be getting RB1 #s from him out of the gate, but he certainly has the potential to carry a good load. I’m still kicking myself that I didn’t take Abdullah with the last pick… but you can’t have them all.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 12:27

4.11 Matt Ryan, QB, ATL
I broke my #2 rule of fantasy football with this pick: "Don't pair your QB and WR". This might be the exception to the rule. I love Matty Ice and I believe he could be the #2 scoring QB. That said, in weeks that Ryan has a bad week I will be pretty sunk. I wanted to go QB with this pick and he was far and away the best left on my board. If Brees was available I still would have gone with Ryan. I weighed the thought of Carr but Ryan/Brees are on another tier.

5.04 Frank Gore, RB, IND
Back to back picks, back to back broken fantasy football axioms I hold true. "Don't draft Colts, you're a homer". I needed my #2 RB and Gore looks ageless. I have concerns about in order 1. His offensive line 2. His QB situation 3. The defense that will cause his team to throw more than run the ball and 4. His age. All that weighed against the rest of the group of RBs who were available I liked him the best. Abdullah and Peterson were considered here.

6.11 Khalil Mack, LB, OAK
I got the alert that my pick was up and I turned to my wife and said "is round 6 too soon for an IDP?" Turns out it's not. Mack is a stud and while he loses his DL status I still think he puts up elite LB numbers. I looked at Lee here and if he had made the turn back to me I would have gone back to back LB.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 15:26

6.09 Doug Martin - RB, TB

Out of the remaining RBs, Doug Martin seemed like the one slated to get the largest workload, and he's on a team that should have a good offense and bad defense.

Martin averaged 19.8 touches per game last year before being injured, and he averaged over 20 touches per game in 2015. He seems to be in line to continue that usage: Martin has been with Tampa Bay for 5 years (averaging 19.9 touches per game), and they stuck with him after his injury-shortened down year in 2014 and were rewarded, so I expect them to stick with him again now. Supposedly Martin looked great in training camp, and the Bucs' depth chart has him listed as RB1, with the backups listed as 2a and 2b.

Of course, there is the issue of his 3 game suspension: maybe a backup RB will run for 150 yards each game and carve out a large role. There's even a chance that Martin won't return as the starter. Any RB this late will have plenty of question marks, though, and I'm just grateful to grab one who is likely to be a 3-down back on a solid offense.

7.06 Tyler Lockett - WR, SEA

I was debating Lockett and 2 other WRs. Lockett was my clear favorite, but the other two seemed like they might go sooner (still undrafted over 2 rounds later, so probably not). I eventually decided that I should just go with Lockett instead of waiting on him and potentially missing out.

After his massive rookie season, last year was a disappointment for everybody who drafted Lockett in the 3rd round. His final stats still turned out fine, though: he only put up 597 receiving yards, but he added 114 rushing yards, 243 punt return yards, and 606 kick return yards.

Add those together, and he had the equivalent of 1196 receiving yards. The main problems were his draft position and his lack of TDs (only 2).

I expect the TDs to stay fairly low if he doesn't get more targets as a WR, but only 1 receiving TD was still pretty unlucky. If he had gotten TDs at the NFL average of 1 per 14.7 receptions, he would have had 2.8, and if he had gotten TDs at the NFL average of 1 per 166 receiving yards, he would have had 3.6.

Lockett doesn't seem like the type of player who is significantly worse than league average at getting TDs, and in 2015, he put up 6 receiving TDs with only 1 more target. I expect 2017 to be somewhere in between.

He is returning from a broken leg, of course, but he's only 24 years old and apparently he has looked like his old self during practice. There is also the issue that he may not be considered Seattle's WR2, but last year he was WR3 in snaps by a large margin, so I'm not expecting any significant drop off in production even if that's the case. The WR who beat him out for those snaps last season was a veteran and an established presence on the team: the WR he is currently competing with has been in the league for 3 years and has yet to reach 30 catches or 300 yards in a season.

Even if Lockett receives fewer targets this year, he should be a safe WR3 most weeks, considering that he'll put up 3-4 points per game just from return yards. If Lockett ends up getting 20 or so more targets, he could easily be what everybody is expecting Tyreek Hill to be.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 15:45

7.10 Zach Ertz TE PHI
Seems like the safest player to pick on the whole Eagles team. There has been a lot of shakeup at the WR/RB positions, but the chemistry between 2nd year QB and Ertz should lead to the TE seeing a lot of targets. I got him ranked as my #5 TE, having less injury risk than J.Reed. Hopefully he gets an up-tick in TDs this year.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 16:26

3.14 Demarious Thomas, WR DEN
He was the best WR I determined to be available at the time. His downside is who is going to be passing the ball? He hightpoints the ball and is versatile in all routes and has the speed to go deep if needed.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 16:31

4.14 Kenny Stills, WR MIA
a talented receiver who can go deep and he may need that speed with his new QB. I liked him as a quality receiver who has a chance to be great,

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 16:41

5.01 Derek Carr, QB OAK
He is one of the most talented quarterbacks to come out in the last few years. Derek has all the tools you need in a QB including a quick release and touch on his throws. He can throw the ball deep which is a prerequisite for an Oakland QB. to have Lynch in the backfield is a plus a more 1-1 matchups will occur on WRs.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 16:49

6.14 Zack Brown, LB WAS
I was looking for a quality LB to start my defensive selections. Based on seeing him vs Dallas, I was impressed with his ability to make plays all over the field (Brown enjoyed a great fantasy season last year, finishing in the top five in total tackles.) He was first off for me at this time.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 16:57

7.01 Joey Bosa, DE LAC
I was very impressed with how he played last season when he finally ended his hold-out and joined the Chargers. Joey was named Defensive Rookie of the Year last year. He notched 10.5 sacks over just 12 games. I can't wait to see his aggressive play out for a full season.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 17:07

8.14 Matt Forte, RB NYJ
I was looking for a 3rd RB as they were becoming slim pickings. I look for Matt to return to the form he had in the past, albeit in a more limited role. I'll have to wait and see how well this turns out if he recovers enough to be a viable RB on bye weeks.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 17:14

9.01 Hunter Henry, TE LAC
Gates can't play forever can he? Henry's primarily an H-Back and runs excellent routes. Looking forward this year to seeing him expand his role in the offense and staying on the field.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 21:26

6.13 Sean Lee, LB, Dal

Wanted to get a top LB here. Was about to head out on a 4 hour drive when only a couple of defensive players had been off the board, so I loaded the queue with the top two LB's that I wanted (Wagner and Lee). Wagner went well before it got to me, but fortunately Lee was still on the board. This guys is a tackle machine when healthy, and hopefully, he stays healthy this year like he did last.

7.02 Cam Newton, QB, Car

Had optimistically put a one-man queue of Russell Wilson for my round 7 pick prior to hitting the road (the difficulty of trying to project 1.5 rounds in advance). Once I got situated and took stock of who all had gone off the board, I still thought this was a good time to get my QB. With Cam's off-year last year, it may be a good opportunity to 'buy low'. Checking last year's draft, he went at 2.10. That was based on the stellar numbers he had put up the year before (when he had 35 passing TD's and 10 rushing TD's). I'll be happy if he splits the difference between his 2015 and 2016 seasons...

8.13 Eddie Lacy, RB, Sea

So, I was moving my son into college today, and then I had a 4 hour drive back home. Which basically meant I had to work off of queues. I decided to get my third running back with this pick and my third WR with my next one. I put together a queue of 4 running backs starting with West and Lacy. West went a couple of picks before it got to me, but I'm happy with Lacy here. He continues to have weight problems, but also has something to prove. Seems to have the primary role, and he is on a one-year contract, so maybe he'll be more than just a backup for me.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 21:56

5.12 Russel Wilson WB
I wanted take a possible 5 QB and I think he will be close and I hope he is able to return to his form in 2015 as he is reportly healthy and recovered from being nicked up last year. Considered Cam here because of rushing TDs but he is getting older and may be more injury prone

6.03. Alec Ogletree. LB
I thought after seeing Wagner go off time to jump in for LB who did well last year and projected to have good year. I liked his tackle totals and hope new defense is as friendly for him

7.12. Paul Perkins. RB

Nice to have third RB who is starter. Not sure how much Giants will run but with their passing hopefully a runner can get yards when runs are called.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 22:02

8.03. Christian Kirksey. LB

Would have taken Telvin Smith here but had same bye week as my first LB Ogletree. I hope he can build on last season as Cleveland defense improves. He is another tackle machine but not much in sacks.

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 22:57

10.14 Marvin Jones WR DET
Marvin started out on fire, then injuries and poor play brought him back to the pack. It's my hope he returns the same as he started last year, time will tell,

deepsnapper
ID: 547252915
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 23:11

11.01 Jaylon Smith, LB DAL
He was a prospective top 5 pick prior to a knee injury in the 2016 Fiesta Bowl that left him with nerve damage. The Cowboys' team doctor performed the surgery and has followed his progress since the draft last year. I feel confident he will perform as aggressive as in college

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 23:49

8.09 Ben Roethlisberger - QB, PIT

I had expected to put off QB for several rounds, and, sure enough (though Rodgers and Brees almost reached me), here I was in round 8 as one of two teams without a QB. My plan was to draft two solid QBs and platoon them, and there were a bunch of QBs remaining that I would have been content with. Roethlisberger jumped out to me, though.

Roethlisberger has finished the past two years ranked as a mid-tier QB at the end of the season, but on a per-game basis he has been far better than that, which makes sense, because that offense is just obscenely loaded with talent.

Last year he was on pace for over 4,700 yards and 36 TDs. In 2015, he was on pace for over 5,200 yards and 28 TDs. In 2014, he played all 16 games and finished with 4,952 yards and 32 TDs.

The main downsides are his tendency to miss a few games each season due to injury and the fact that he seems to be a terrible person. Much has been made of how reliably bad Roethlisberger is on the road. In my situation, that is the ideal scenario: a dramatic platoon split!! Yeah, he's terrible on the road, but at home? He's literally the best QB in the NFL. Here are his home splits on a per-game basis each of the past few seasons:

2016: 319 YDS / 3.3 TDS / 0.8 INTS
2015: 348 YDS / 2.7 TDS / 1.2 INTS
2014: 347 YDS / 2.9 TDS / 0.5 INTS

With the (presumptive) return of Martavis Bryant, he will have even more offensive weapons. Mike Tomlin also has a tendency to go for 2 far more frequently than any other coach. Best of all? The Steelers play weeks 15 and 16 at home.

9.06 Danny Woodhead - RB, BAL

I had been eyeing the RBs for a while, waiting until it reached the last few starters to take my 3rd. With a small run ahead of me, it was time.

Woodhead is a much better option in PPR, but he should get a decent amount of carries in Baltimore, mostly because Terrance West is the only other back who should get more than a few dozen of them.

Woodhead derives so much value from receiving yards, and the Ravens will have plenty of targets to give him, after losing their best WR to retirement and their TE to injury. In 2015, Woodhead managed 1091 yards and 9 TDs despite having fewer than 100 rushing attempts. In 2013, he managed 1030 yards and 8 TDs despite only 106 rushing attempts. Another 75+ reception season might be wishful thinking, but I also expect an uptick in rushing attempts this year, to at least around 10 per game.

Will he get hurt again this season? Probably. He's 5'8" and is a 32 year old running back. At RB #38, though, you take what you can get.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Tue, Aug 29, 2017, 23:52

6.12 Kelley, Rob WAS RB
Needed a 2nd RB and I thought Kelly was much better than any others available. Kelly was an undrafted rookie last year, and ended up being the Redskins starter after not playing much early in the season. Kelly is a big back who should score goal line TDs and appears to have won the starting job again this season.

7.3 Snead, Willie NOS WR
Wanted to get a 3rd WR with this pick before waiting till 8.12. Sneead will probably be the number 2 WR for the Saints. His fantasy numbers should improve over last year (#38 ranked fantasy WR) with Cooks no longer on the team. I also considered DeSean Jackson but was afraid he may miss too much time because of injuries.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Wed, Aug 30, 2017, 00:00

8.05 Dak Prescott QB DAL
I just missed out on Stafford (went previous pick). I’ve now ended up with Dak in a couple of my Leagues, and really find he brings great value for the position, which is why I try to hold off from QBs in the first ~5 rounds. He finished as QB6 last year. I don’t see many reasons to predict much regression: He’s got 1 year extra in the offence. He’s got most of the same receiving / rushing options of last year. His O-Line is still outstanding.

9.10 Kyle Rudolph TE MIN
I wasn’t really looking for a TE here, but with the new lineup system in place during the bye weeks, it made it more tempting to grab a 2nd startable TE here. I’m not sure how the whole 5-11 weeks scenario will play out for my team, but I think this gives me a little more flexibility.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Wed, Aug 30, 2017, 09:49

9:12. Aaron Donald DT
Despite contract dispute a settlement is likely despite rhetoric. I can only hope before too long or probably worst Pick of draft as try to build defense. I had planned to take Bosa in this spot if available. I have had Donald last couple of years and has been fairly consistent with a few big games.

10.03. Reshad Jones
Wanted top S to help fill out defense but he comes with injury history. When healthy was top safety next to Collins. I considered Keanu.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Wed, Aug 30, 2017, 14:28

7.04 Pierre Garcon, WR, SF
I would have to look back at past drafts but I feel like I always have my starting WR and RB slots filled by the 7th round. This year is no exception. Garcon is an excellent big play guy and while his QB situation isn't the best, he should see a lot of targets. The best part, his bye week fits in perfectly with my other WRs

8.11 Terrance West, RB, BAL
There isn't many RBs left who will get a starter's load of carries. To get one in the 8th round to be my RB3 is just icing on the cake. He's got a solid back up now but that backup catches the ball, he doesn't really run. Really if West plays twice for me and then acts as a security blanket for my first two RBs I'm doing well.

9.04 Von Miller, LB, DEN
This year in going with a bit of a different IDP strategy. I usually go after 120 tackle type LBS, but this year I've got 2 sack machines. It may lead to some boom or bust weeks, but the last two playoff spots are based on points and these guys score just as much as the 120 tackle guys who get 1 sack and 1 INT.

10.11 Barry Church, S, JAX
I might be changing my LB strategy, but my DB strategy will never change. Get safeties who rack up tackles. Since 2014, Church has had the second most tackles and is replacing the leader. He's going to get 100 total tackles, the only reason he didn't get it last year was due to injury.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Wed, Aug 30, 2017, 19:00

10.05 Ted Ginn Jr WR NO
How many years have I owned Ted Ginn Jr? How many years have I heard people say about players “like him”… he’ll be too important to his team to cover the special teams rolls anymore? And yet, someone “like Ginn”… continues to find new teams, and continues to finnish as a top 30 WR year in, year out. This year, in New Orleans, he’s actually shown great rapport with Brees early. He’s also solidified his role as a team #2 WR... for now. End of year recap? We may be looking back and saying, solid WR2.

11.10 Carlos Dunlap DE CIN
My lack of RB depth is almost laughable at this point. However, I find myself with another great starting player who should/will be starting for my squad week in week out. Last year, he was top 10 DL… I think he has the opportunity to improve upon that. At this point, I’m really trying to build the best team possible… not one that has tons of depth and earns points on my bench every week.

12.05 Duke Johnson RB CLE
This pick was made on the road. I didn’t have a cheat sheet ready per-say for this pick… but I knew it had to be another RB. Duke has shown great talent / ability, especially as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. This year, the QB scheme doesn’t seem to be using as many dink and dunk plays in the flats to the RBs… so far. Realistically, he looks like a safe bye week fill in, and hopefully I don’t need him for much more than that.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 00:22

9.02 DeSean Jackson, WR, TB

Per my previous rationale, I decided I wanted to get my third WR here, and created a queue of 5 receivers. DeSean was actually the first name on the list, so glad he was still around 15 picks later. (actually two of them made it even another two rounds...) DeSean has some new scenery this year, and from the couple of episodes of Hard Knocks that I've seen, seems he has landed in a good spot where he can take advantage of his speed.

10.13 Jordan Matthews, Buf, WR

Decided to go with depth on the offensive side rather than address some starters on defense. I noticed that deepsnapper only has two WR, so he will likely grab one before my upcoming pick. So, I'll address defense after the turn. I actually had Matthews in my queue that landed DeSean Jackson with my last pick at 9.02. He is the #1 option in Buffalo after being traded in the preseason. Hopefully, he's had sufficient time to learn the playbook...

11.02 Keanu Neal, DB, Atl

I was fully prepared to get my first DL here, but it looks like I've missed the boat on the top tier linemen. Decided instead to beat the rush on top DB's and grabbed Neal. As a rookie last year, he had more than 70 solo tackles and 100 total tackles - and this with missing the first two games. Expecting him to be a reliable tackle machine, so I'll bank on those points, and see what I can come up with for my linemen in future rounds.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 01:52

10.09 Jeremy Maclin - WR, BAL

Maclin was one of the other WRs I was considering back when I took Lockett in round 7. He was still around, so this was a pretty easy decision.

Last year was bad, but Maclin had 1,088 yards and 8 TDs in 2015, which is remarkable considering that Alex Smith was his QB. Nothing destroys a WR's fantasy value like Alex Smith. Here is what the Chiefs' leading WR put up in Smith's 3 other seasons:

2016: 593 YDS/6 TDs
2014: 754 YDS/0 TDs
2013: 673 YDS/5 TDs

Yikes.

Now Maclin is on the Ravens, and they throw a ton. The Ravens' WRs have received over 350 targets each of the past 2 years, whereas the Chiefs' WRs didn't reach 280 targets either year.

The Ravens are also conveniently missing over 300 targets from last year after losing their #1 WR to retirement, their #4 WR to free agency, and their TE and #2 RB to injury.

Maclin feels like a washed up veteran: nobody's excited about him, he struggled through injuries last year, and it seems like he has been mediocre or bad for forever.
He's still in his 20s, though, and in the seasons prior to last year, he finished as WR#21 and WR#7.

Is this way too long of a rationale for Jeremy Maclin? Probably. Do I expect him to light it up with 1,300 yards and 10 TDs? Not really.

...but hey: he did that not too long ago!

11.06 Tyrod Taylor - QB, BUF

I already took Roethlisberger with the intention of platooning him. So what weeks will be bad weeks for him? Well, I took a look at the Steelers' schedule, and his toughest matchups appeared to be in weeks 1 and 7, with his bye week in week 10. What are Tyrod Taylor's matchups in weeks 1, 7, and 10?

vs Jets, vs Bucs, vs Saints.

It's absolute perfection and my QB situation is looking spectacular, right?

Well, no, because whatever I was looking at was not an accurate Steelers' season schedule. It doesn't correspond to last year's schedule either. I have no idea what happened.

The Steelers' bye week is actually in week 9, and they have difficult road matchups in weeks 6, 13, and 16. Tyrod Taylor's matchups in those weeks?

BYE, @NYJ, vs NE, @NE.

UGHTHHGHIDSHFDHHFDHFH

I do think Tyrod Taylor is terribly undervalued because he averages over 6 points per game from his rushing: last year in Seattle he put up an NFL average-ish line of 289/1/1 and ended up with 24 points. Heck - in week 3 vs the Cardinals, he threw for 119 yards and an INT and still finished with over 16 points.

That said, I valued Eli Manning slightly more, and there were several slightly worse QBs I would have taken over Taylor if I had discovered the schedule mishap earlier.

In conclusion: if you like Tyrod Taylor and you drafted Eli Manning, Andy Dalton, Carson Palmer, or Carson Wentz, offer me a trade!!

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 03:16

12.09 Johnathan Cyprien - S, TEN

I had identified 3 LBs I was really excited about: Vontaze Burfict, Jatavis Brown, and Eric Kendricks. I planned to take one of them and draft a DB on the turn. Naturally, all 3 of them were taken, in order, back to back to back.

I turned to look at the safeties instead: Tony Jefferson was fantastic last year, but moving to Baltimore will probably hurt his tackle totals. Kenny Vaccaro has been consistently solid playing in a MLB wasteland. I think I can wait on him, though.

Cyprien has been a reliable top DB, and moving to Tennessee shouldn't damage his value. In all 4 of his seasons, he has averaged at least 6.5 points per game from tackles alone. He hasn't done too much else, but that's still plenty of production from a DB.

13.06 Michael Bennett - DE, SEA

As I waited for my next pick, I figured I should move on to my "sleeper" LB, Reuben Foster. I had been assuming I could wait quite a while for him, but then I realized he had already been taken in AA and one of the AAAs.

I got myself hyped up to draft him, and then Jaydog took him with the pick before me. Ugh.

I briefly considered doubling up on DBs with Jefferson or Vaccaro, but I figured I should draft a DL to even my defense out and give myself more options in future rounds.

I was primarily considering Michael Bennett and Muhammad Wilkerson. Wilkerson is coming off a down year where he was useless for fantasy purposes, and I can see it happening again: if the Jets are as bad as advertised, there won't be many passing plays in the 2nd half, and there will be far fewer opportunities for sacks.

Michael Bennett has consistently racked up tackles for losses: at least 8 of them each of the past 3 years. Our scoring system makes him a much more valuable player than he is in traditional systems which only value sacks, though Bennett does get plenty of sacks too: roughly one every 2 games for each of the past 5 years.

Bennett averaged 7.4 points in 11 games last year (7th best rate), which is backed up by his 2015 average of 7.7 points (9th best rate). The Seattle defense promises to be excellent again, and he won't face much double-teaming. I'm expecting him to finish in the vicinity of DL#8 again, which would be nice value as the 13th DL taken.

If nothing else, between Bennett and Marshawn Lynch, my team is set to lead the RIFC in national anthem protests.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 07:38

12.13 Everson Griffen, DL, Min

The speed of the draft this year makes it hard to stay caught up. In this case, I had to quickly, and, hopefully stealthily, do research during a meeting at work. Felt like I needed to address the gaps in my starting lineup on defense with these pair of picks. Was rushed, and didn't feel entirely comfortable with these picks, but I at least ensured Griffen is still healthy and a decent source of tackles from the DL position.

13.02 Kiko Alonso, LB, Mia

I still remember picking him up during his rookie year where he had a dominant 159 tackles while with Buffalo… a couple of stops later and he had 115 tackles last year - that is still a very good number, but knowing he's got the potential to do much more than that led me to pick him him here.

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 09:40

13.12 Eric Ebron. TE
Needed tight end to fill out offense and waited a bit long to where may have to take chance on injured player which seems to be the theme of my draft this year. If healthy could have good year and hoping lives up to potential this year. Jack Doyle survived a long time and was hoping he or Thomas might fall through to me.

14.03. CJ Prosise. RB
Another injury concern but has playing time there if healthy as backup. Hoping for breakout year. Considered another similar back Sproles here who has not played during preseason but is in good position for playing time. I assumed he was healthy and guess age was consideration.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 09:50

9.3 Smith, Telvin JAC LB
Once I complete drafting starters at QB,RB,WR, and TE, I start looking for IDPs. Smith is 26 years old and was a top 10 fantasy LB in 2015 and 2016. I see no reason not to expect similar production in 2017.

10.12 Ingram, Melvin LAC DE
Ingram's position has changed from LB to DE because the Chargers are changing to the 4-3 defense. Ingram puts up good sack numbers and would have ranked 5 in DL fantasy points if he played there last season.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 10:06

8.12 Stewart, Jonathan CAR RB
Wanted to get a 3rd RB with this pick to add some depth. Stewart will still have a major role with the Panthers even with the addition of McCaffery. I expect him to score more TDs this season because it has been reported that Newton will no longer be running at the goalline.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 10:08

11.3 Decker, Eric TEN WR
Adding some depth at WR. Decker was a top 20 fantasy WR when healthy for 4 seasons from 2012-2015 with the Broncos and Jets. I am hoping hi is able to produce numbers close to these with the Titans in 2017 after being injured most of 2016.

12.12 Manning, Eli NYG QB
I like to keep a quality backup QB on my roster in this league in case my starter gets injured. I thought there were only a few left (Manning, Wentz, Palmer). Chose Manning because I think he will be throwing a lot because of the weak Giants running game and strong receivers. And also because I feel he is less likely to be injured than the other two.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 10:31

13.3 McLeod, Rodney PHI
Wanted to add a DB to my roster. McLeod put up good numbers in his first season with the Eagles in 2016. I expect his tackle number to remain the same but an increase in interceptions because he has looked like he is becoming a playmaker this preseason.

14.12 Smallwood, Wendell PHI RB
Added Smallwood as my 4th RB. My plan was to draft 5 RBs. Smallwood played well when he got playing time for the Eagles during his rookie season. Smallwood is an everydown back who I think will get a significant ammount of touches this season with Sproles touches probably reduced, and Blount used mostly in short yardage situations.

15.3 Foster, Mason WAS LB
Chose Foster as my 2nd LB. Foster was a top 20 fantasy LB last season putting up good tackle numbers. I expect similar production this season.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 10:59

11.12. Chris Hogan WR
Looking for WR to fill out offense. Due to other offensive players with bye week 8 decided to try for another bye week. Looked at Hogan and Thielen who are both rising. Due to injury looks like Hogan would be beneficiary although a little bit in unknown territory filling in for Edelman. Being a Vikings fan I think Thielen is going to have big year.

12.03. Corey Coleman WR
The original thought was to take Thielen on short turnaround but that did not work. Looked at Coleman and possibly Britt and not sure who benefits with QB situation. Hoping for second year breakout. I also liked John Brown here who I have on another league but health is still a concern.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 11:29

13.10 Jarrad Davis LB DET
The first rounder looks to step in as the MIKE for the Lions. When you get drafted in the first round, a lot is expected of you. I haven’t seen a lot of film on Davis, other than preseason game 3 vs the Pats. That didn’t seem to work out so well for him. Hopefully the stat lines will look better though.

14.05 Lawrence Timmons LB MIA
While in PIT, he’s been a consistent LB for years. Now, he moves down to MIA, where hopefully he will man the Middle of the field. Here’s hoping he gets the consistent opportunity to make plays once again, and break the 100 tackle mark once again as well. Age will be a limiting factor probably... so I temper my expectations to the LB3 range.

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 19:40

15.12. Jerry Hughes. DE
Needed to fill out defense and like Hughes potential in new 4-3 Buffalo is supposedly using. I had hoped Wilkerson would fall to me as more Def has been coming off board in last few rounds.

16.03. Sam Bradford. QB
I was late in getting a second QB and Sam was last one on my list. I also hope he puts up good numbers early as there would probably mean Vikings are winning and Teddy Bridgewater will not return this year which is a risk in drafting Bradford. Kizer of Cleveland was alternative but think he will have up and down season. Russell Wilson has an early bye week which also was part of the decision to take vet.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 19:57

15.10 Myles Jack LB JAC
My 3rd straight IDP / LB slot being filed. With 7 IDP starting slots… I felt it was important to get a good group of starters prior to turning my attention back to the “skill positions”. Jack is my 3rd straight ILB, as I tend to prefer tackles heavy / consistency over sack potential that normally come from the Outside positions. Jack has some injury concerns / history… hopefully they don’t become too much of an issue this year.

16.05 Jacquizz Rodgers RB TB
I really don’t know how this whole RB situation is going to play out with the Cowboys… so I’m adding a little insurance for the first few weeks of the season while Martin is serving a suspension himself. The coaching staff for the Bucs haven’t officially said that it’s Doug Martin’s job to lose when he comes back from suspension, so there could be some mid/long-term value here as well.

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 21:20

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 21:24

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Thu, Aug 31, 2017, 23:01

14.13 Coby Fleener, TE, NO

At this part of the draft, I really start comparing my roster with the rest of the teams to see where I need to address gaps before I get stuck sifting through the dregs of what is left. This time around, TE stood out - not a lot of reliable options left - in, fact neither is Fleener - but he certainly has the potential and is in the right system to be a good fill-in for me during WR or TE bye-weeks or for injury backup.

15.02 Preston Brown, LB, Buf

Grabbed my 3rd LB here - they are still the most reliable source of tackles, and Brown had 139 last year, and he is still just 24 years old. Plus he was a keeper on my G24 team (which probably speaks more to the quality of my roster there than it does to this being a steal...).

16.13 Giovani Bernard, RB, Cin

At this point, I'm focusing on positions I need to address. Can't have too many running backs - due to uncertain roles and due to injuries. I found a few that I queued up this morning. James White was actually on top of the list and Bernard was second. He's not the main guy, and may actually be third on the depth chart in Cincinnati but should still figure to get plenty of touches.

17.02 Blake Bortles, QB, Jax

ugh. Waited too long to grab my backup quarterback. Disappointed to see several (slightly) more serviceable options fall off the board in the past round. On the plus side, Bortles currently has the starting job, and has a different off-week than Cam Newton who is my other QB.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 01:59

11.04 McKinney, Benardrick HOU LB
I needed a IDP who can get 8-11 tackles in a week.i can't rely solely on sack machines at LB.

12.11 Thomas, Julius MIA TE
Cutler loves his TEs. I expect a return to his Denver numbers. 900 yards, 8-10 TDs.

13.04 Burnett, Morgan GBP S
When he's healthy he's a tackle machine. But he misses 2 to 3 weeks a season.

14.11 Cutler, Jay MIA QB
I don't understand the Cutler hate here in the Chicago area. He's a league average QB. Solid back up who plays a weak D on Matty Ice's bye.

15.04 Cox, Fletcher PHI DT
He was the best DL on my board. No other reason than that.

16.11 Weddle, Eric BAL S
Stupidly I took two DBs that have the same bye week. I need a really solid #3. Hopefully I can draft one in the late rounds and forgo a #3 DL until the byes. Or maybe let my kicker draw a 0 in that week... We'll see. Best available DB here tho.

17.04 LaFell, Brandon CIN WR
While I expect a bit of a dip from last season, the #2 WR in a pass happy offense should provide a decent amount of points for a WR4

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 09:08

17.12 Jamal Adams. S
Needed to fill out IDP and decided to take chance on rookie who has had good preseason . He is in position to start and a lot of action for a weak Jets defense so will be high risk/high reward.

18.03. Antoine Bethea. S
Just realized both safeties had same bye week after drafting them so decided to take another safety before a few more disappeared that I liked. He could also serve as last defensive back and has had good tackle counts past few years but is switching teams which is always a worry.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 10:09

16.12 Doctson, Josh WAS WR
Doctson is a 2016 1st round pick who was out most of last season with an achilles injury. He had some hamstring issues this preseason and not played much. If healthy, he could become the Redskins #1 WR and a red zone target.

17.3 Buckner, DeForest SFO DT
Buckner was the 7th overall pick in the 2016 draft and had a strong rookie season finishing 13th in DL fantasy points. I expect these numbers to improve in his 2nd season.

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 10:23

18.12 Thompson, Chris WAS RB
Thompson is the Redskins 3rd down back who will catch a lot of passes out of the backfield. He was the 31st ranked RB last season averaging around 7 fantasy points each week. He won't put up any big numbers, but will be a good bye week and injury replacement.

19.3 Shepard, Sterling NYG WR
Shepard had a good rookie season in 2016 with stats of 683 yards receiving and 8 TDs. Even with the addition of Brandon Marshall, I still expect Shepard to be on the field a lot because the Giants usually go with 3 WRs. I expect his numbers to improve in his 2nd season.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 11:54

17.10 Tavon Austin WR LAR
The anti-sexy pick. Last year Austin was worthy of a 7th Rounder in this format. True, he’s had some issues performing (for his team not fantasy), so he’s not considered “the answer” at the Wideout position. He’s still going to get his useage though. And… most likely, he’ll be a safe bet as a plug in WR3 during bye weeks for my current wideouts. In his 2015 season, he was good for the 13th overall WR in our format, whereas last year he finished 33rd. Coming into his 4th season, and still only 26 years old… no reason to expect a large drop-off.

18.05 Jordan Hicks LB PHI
Filling in some LB depth now. Hicks is currently sidelined with what is considered a minor groin injury. He should be back out on the field really soon as he’s both an every-down LB, and he calls the plays for the defensive unit. That’s too valuable too stay off the field for long.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 17:24

14.09 Ndamukong Suh - DT, MIA

Suh consistently finishes as a low-end DL#1 thanks to plenty of tackles for loss and QB hits. His first season in the NFL will probably end up being his best, but I should be able to count on him as a competent and reliable starter each week.

15.06 Kenny Vaccaro - S, NO

Vaccaro ranked 4th among DBs in points per game last year, but his season was shortened to 11 games due to an injury and a suspension. In 2015, he played all 16 games and finished 9th overall. Much of his value has come from the Saints' terrible MLB play, and it looks like that will probably be a mess this year too.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 17:55

16.09 Vince Williams - LB, PIT

After watching Vontaze Burfict, Jatavis Brown, Eric Kendricks, and Reuben Foster all get taken in front of me, I still only had 1 LB. There were a few that fit what I was looking for, but Vince Williams stood out to me a bit more than the others. His final stats from last year were low, but for most of the season he was barely on the field.

When he did get playing time, he was a monster: in weeks 4 and 5, he put up 25 tackles (5 for a loss), and 2 sacks. Now he's a starter, and I think he has a decent shot at finishing as a LB1.

17.06 DeAndre Washington - RB, OAK

There are plenty of question marks around Marshawn Lynch, so it makes sense to handcuff him. DeAndre Washington seems to be the clear #2 right now (though he might split carries if Marshawn is out of the picture). He is a good receiver and should get enough targets and carries (5.4 YPC last year) to be a tolerable emergency start if Danny Woodhead misses week 1 or is injured during Doug Martin's bye week.
He's mostly there as a handcuff, though.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 18:23

18.09 BJ Goodson - LB, NYG

The Giants' MLB play was such a disaster last year that Landon Collins essentially did their job. BJ Goodson was a rookie and barely played a snap: now he's earned the starting MLB job, and it's looking like he's going to stay on the field for passing downs. If he ends up getting most of the snaps, there will be plenty of tackles available.

19.06 Jahleel Addae - S, LAC

Addae missed 8 games in the middle of the season, but he was great in the rest and was on pace for over 130 points. Chargers' strong safety was a great role for Eric Weddle for a long time: now it's time to hope that continues with Addae. Also, the other time I drafted a Central Michigan Chippewa, it worked out pretty well for me (2013, Antonio Brown in the 4th round).

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 20:17

19.12. Darron Lee LB

Wanted 3rd LB for defense. It appears he has full time job and hope he can make second season jump for Jets. His bye week was a consideration.

20.03. D'onta Foreman RB
More of a backup flyer at RB who apparently has talent and might develop as season progresses or have big role if injury.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Fri, Sep 01, 2017, 22:08

19.10 Kam Chancellor S SEA
Legion of Boom’s strong safety. He has some consistency issues, and recent injuries as well… so I have to temper my expectations. Fortunately, he’s got the upside… but I probably won’t hesitate to send him to the wire should he get injured.

20.05 Danny Amendola WR NE
With Edelman going down with injury, it’s Amendola and not Hogan that’s currently expected to fill in the same “scout” role on the offence. Amendola and Edelman are very similar type players, and Brady first mentioned him when talking about players that he has the most trust in, remaining in the receiving core. Added value: he remains the top option in the Punt Return game as well with Cyrus Jones going down in preseason game 4 with a feared ACL tear. Injury is a worry here… so maybe his usage will be situational… it’s hard to predict these things with the Patriots. I don’t mind taking a shot on him in the 20th round, when the potential on that offense is so high.

twolves
Dude
ID: 811161317
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 10:41

21.12 Besdad Perryman WR
With new format needed another WR and pretty picked over. Perryman has not lived up to expectations and maybe this is the year will be different. It appears if healthy he would be first on depth chart with a couple of prior starters gone so might have some upside for this late draft position.

22.03. Caleb Sturgis PK
PK seemed to flying off board earlier than I remember. I wanted a dependable kicker and he did well last year. However, he has missed a few this preseason which may not be good omen. I also liked Samtos here but hoping Philly scored more than KC.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 11:06

21.10 James Conner RB PIT
These next two picks are happening on what seems to be “cut-day” in the NFL. Unfortunately, I’m out and about running errands and have a hard time staying up to date on all the movements / impact. All I know is, that most of my team is filled with starters, so may as well aim a few darts at some high potential players. Conner seems to be in-line for the #2 duties for the Steelers, where we’ve seen the backups prove to be VERY valuable in previous years.

22.05 Alvin Kamara RB NO
Mainly...see 21.10. I’ll add a little extra though. New Orleans system w/Brees at QB is built to make the pass-catching RB very valuable. Ingram is currently set as the primary at early downs, goal line and pass-catching. With him and Peterson ahead of Kamara on the depth chart, I may not be able to use him till the 2nd half of the year. At this point, I’m fine with that, as he’s my 4th backup at RB.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 13:14

12.14 Carson Wentz QB PIL
Wanted to pick up a quality quarterback as I had queued up several and Wentz was one of them. His was a season of Jekyll and Hyde in reverse. He was great to begin the season last year going 5-1 and ending 2-8. I'm predicting the former with new receivers and O-Line. Time will tell and he's not going anywhere after the rookie season last year.

13.01 Garrett Myles DE CLE
Went with the top ranked rookie as a DE. He has outstanding quickness and speed from DE and the Browns switched to a 4-3 defense thus the need for a top DE. I hope he lives up to his rating as he'll be on the field a lot.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 13:28

Guru - Sorry for the late posts. I had an appointment with my Ophthalmologist Wednesday, and she preformed laser surgery on my right eye's retina due to "background bleeding". I've been blurry eyed since, and had to see another doctor in the afternoon about my bad foot. Sure proud of my wife for hauling me around, ;-)

Blew Wednesday all to heck. Good thing I set up 4 queues.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 13:40

14.14 Byron Jones FS DAL Going into his 3rd season, Byron has established himself as a fine Safety and slot defender. I was happy to get him in the 14th round. I look forward to an even better season this year.

15.01 Carl Nassib DE CLE He was an inadvertent pick due to queuing too many players. I plan on dropping him after the draft.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 13:57

16.14 Leonard Williams DE CLE
Williams was the best, and most consistent, player on the Jets defense in 2016 and it seems like his future is in front of him. The former 6th overall pick is an excellent all-around player who does just about everything well.

17.01 Ha Ha Clinton-Dix DE CLE
Clinton-Dix had twenty less total tackles in 2016, but did come up with a career-high five interceptions. I expect similar totals this season as the LB group is still unsettled and he will range sideline to sideline and back up the line as well. Look forward to a great season.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 14:10

18.18 Dion Lewis RB NE
Lewis has shown he can run the ball well off the edge and is a deadly weapon when receiving a pass. The only question is, can he hang onto the ball? I needed an additional RB and he was IMO the best option available.

19.01 Paul Posluszny MLB JAX
Barring injury concerns, I like Paul at MLB. He has excellent pursuit angles and attacks the gap as it is being opened. Hope he has a good healthy season

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 15:38

20.14 Dan Bailey PK DAL
Bailey has been one of the most accurate and efficient kickers in the NFL. He can make the pressure kick from 35 or 55 yards. I went ahead and took him to ensure I had a great kicker.

21.01 Charles Clay TE BUF
In need of a 2nd TE, Clay seemed the best available, he is a solid overall TE and a great check-down option for the QB. The WR corps will not scare anyone, and he could be a very good red zone option

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 15:56

20.12 Golden, Markus ARI LB
Golden is a pass rushing LB who has 12.5 sacks last season. He was the 28th ranked fantasy LB last season.

22.3 Prater, Matt DET PK
Prater is a reliable kicker who has hit over 80% of his field goals in each of the last 5 seasons. He has also averaged around 5 50+ yard field goals a season.

21.12 Poyer, Jordan BUF S
Poyer was signed by the Bills this offsesaon to be their starting free saftey. He played well for the Browns until being injured in the middle of last season. He seems to be fully recovered.

23.3 Agholor, Nelson PHI WR
Agholor is a former first round pick who has been a dissapointment his first two season with the Eagles. Reports are that he had a great training camp and will be filling the slot role vacated by Jordon Matthews.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 16:17

22.14 Marcus Maye FS NYJ
Maye appears to be a solid rookie with a strong defense. He is a player who looks to be ready for the transition to the NFL. Looking forward to seeing how he plays in the AFC East.

23.01 Travis Benjamin WR LAC
He is the deep threat for the Chargers as well as PR. Diving this deep into the draft, I hope he plays well as he did early last season before injury limited to the sideline the last half of 2016.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 16:24

23.12 alien Hicks DE
Had Beasley, Hicks and Tuitt as possible picks for last 2 rounds. With Beasley gone decided between Hicks and Tuitt. Went with Hicks since he better better stats last year, However think Tuitt is ascending and may out produce Hicks.

24.3. Jarrod Cooks TE
Since Ebron is still a question decided on second TE and he seemed to positioned well for week 1 if needed.

Twolves
ID: 241117622
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 16:27

Guru

The info for my 15 and 16 picks Hughes and Bradford are in thread earlier

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 19:01

20.09 Austin Seferian-Jenkins - TE, NYJ

He's suspended to start the season, and drafting somebody who is on their third "this will be the year he breaks out" doesn't tend to work out very well. Supposedly he has cleaned up his life - it's tough to know if that's true or not.

There should be a lot of targets to go around on the Jets, though, and with the lack of talent at WR, there's a chance that Seferian-Jenkins becomes the primary receiver. He has a lot of raw talent and should be one of their red zone threats. I can see a scenario where he gets enough garbage time stats to finish as a top 10 TE. He'll probably just be disappointing again, but this is about the most ideal situation he could ever have to break out.

21.06 Justin Houston - LB, KC

Justin Houston has missed 17 games over the past 2 years.
Justin Houston also has had 11-1/2 sacks over the 15 games he played, with a 22 sack season the year before that.

I prefer tackle-dependent LBs to sack-dependent LBs whenever possible, but in the 21st round, I'll gladly take this chance. If he's healthy again like he claims, then he could have a huge season. If not, he'll probably put up a few 25 point games on my bench and get 4.50 when I start him as a bye week replacement.

I_AM_CANADIAN
ID: 432322919
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 19:14

23.10 Dustin Hopkins K WAS
He’s a kicker… check. Moving on… about the only other I thought I put into this besides consulting a cheatsheet, was the fact that I drafted him in the RGK… thus, if something goes wrong with him, I’ll know to adjust both leagues. The less thought I put into kickers the better.

24.05 Jared Goff QB LAR
Just needed an extra body to cover the ever important QB bye week, and all depending on schedule wholes, may the occasional start here and there. Word on Goff’s tape this summer has been mixed, but the tools he has to work with are improving… maybe he might end up being a solid contributor.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 19:24

22.09 Jalen Richard - RB, OAK

Now I've locked up both of Marshawn's backups. Richard is explosive and can make defenders miss, as evidenced by last year's 5.9 YPC on over 80 carries.

DeAndre Washington is currently slated to get more playing time and would probably be the primary back if Marshawn Lynch gets hurt, but Richard would also be likely to become a reliable starter, with punt return yards in addition to what would probably be 10-15 carries per game. Depending on how many touches he gets on offense, those punt return yards might also make him a better emergency fill-in option than Washington.

23.06 Wil Lutz - K, NO

10 kickers had already been drafted, and Lutz is on a team that has a consistently strong offense and plays in a dome. Wil I stick with him all year? I guess wil see.

mmikulka
ID: 237262718
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 19:34

24.09 Denzel Perryman - LB, LAC

Perryman averaged almost 9 points per game in 2015 after taking over the MLB role. Last year he averaged 8 points over 11 full games. He probably would have been one of the first 10 LBs drafted, but he tore an ankle ligament and will miss about half the season.

However, Perryman is likely to be put on the Injured Reserve: Designated for Return list, and we have an IR slot that I'd like to finally take advantage of!

TD
Leader
ID: 036331011
Sat, Sep 02, 2017, 22:03

24.12 Jenkins, Malcolm PHI S
Wanted to add a third DB. Jenkins is a starting safety for the Eagles who was the 15th ranked fantasy DB in 2016.

deepsnapper
ID: 18814212
Sun, Sep 03, 2017, 19:40

24.14 Brandon McManus PK DEN
Brandon has been a solid kicker for several years. Kicking in Denver 8 games/yr doesn't hurt his chances to score either. He will make a solid 2nd kicker.

Slackjawed Yokel
ID: 107391212
Mon, Sep 04, 2017, 15:24

18.13 Eric Reid, S, SF

Solid source of tackles for second defensive back.

19.02 DeMarcus Lawrence, DL, Dal

Well, for my second starting linemen went for upside… he was hampered by injuries last year and really had no production. The year prior he had 8 sacks and ~50 tackles… that's what I'm hoping to steal here late.

20.13 Devin Funchess, WR, Car

Potential upside here, but last year he did not really step up when Benjamin was sidelined with injury.

21.02 Stephen Gostkowski, PK, NE

Didn't really have time to plan out this pick. Seeing as a kicker had just gone before me, I thought this would be a good time to grab one, and see if I could cause a full-fledged kicker run.

22.13 Latavius Murray, RB, Minn

Murray is coming off of a couple of 1000 total yard seasons. Plus he had 12 rushing TD's last year. Sounds like a perfect backup candidate - should get plenty of touches and TD opportunities - can't beat that in a 22nd round selection.

23.02 Cameron Meredith, WR, Chi

This was user error. Instead of picking on my laptop or phone, I tried with my iPad, and had typed a name in to the search field, hit go, and I must've had Meredith's name highlighted, as he ended up on my roster instead of executing the search. Oh, well, will teach me to try to draft while half asleep. Upon looking up Meredith, saw he put up some good numbers last year, but was just placed on season-ending IR.

24.13 Edwin Jackson, LB, IND

Several rounds back in researching potential LB's, I saw that the Colts depth chart wasn't perfectly clear. And someone is going to have to get their tackles. Things don't look real good for the Colts this year, so I wouldn't be surprised to see them regularly having to defend against the run. So, if Jackson, is indeed one of the starting ILB, that should provide him a lot of tackle opportunities.

Kyle
Leader
ID: 052753312
Wed, Sep 06, 2017, 17:13

Sorry for the delay. I was out of town this weekend and just returned home.

18.11 Williamson, Avery TEN LB
With 2 risky LBs I decided to go with another one who racks up tackles. Williamson should be good for another season of 100 tackles.

19.04 Tucker, Justin BAL PK
I wanted to get ahead of the kicker run that I was sure to happen at any moment. I think I was a round or two early but I got the best kicker on the board.

20.11 McCoy, Gerald TBB DT
I'm watching too much Hard Knocks. He's a beast but does he put up the numbers to deserve this pick? Maybe.

21.04 Blue, Alfred HOU RB
Handcuff time. If Miller goes down for any amount of time Blue will get the lions share of the carries.

22.11 Miller, Zach CHI TE
What the best friend of a young QB? A pass catching TE. Will Miller stay healthy? Probably not. If he does he's a border line TE1

23.04 Turbin, Robert IND RB
You can't just have one handcuff, they come in pairs.

24.11 Curry, Vinny PHI DE
He's my back up DE. If he doesn't produce on the bench, he'll be the first one on waivers.

Forum: footPage 5575Subject: RIFC 2017: Rationale Collection Thread

Forum: foot
Page 5575
Subject: RIFC 2017: Rationale Collection Thread