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2021 NFL Rookie QB Preview | The Elite

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Welcome to The Undroppables’ latest series of posts previewing the 2021 QB draft class. The 2021 draft could offer an abundance of talent at the position similar to the 2018 class, which saw four quarterbacks drafted in the top ten and five in the first round. In  each post, I will cover a tier of 2021 QB prospects, starting with the Best of the Best and working our way through the sleepers and potential career backups.

Trevor Lawrence – Clemson

Elite Rookie QBs
Trevor Lawrence

Lawrence has been on the NFL radar since high school, where he was tied for the 6th best college football prospect grade ever according to 247Sports. However, since Trevor Lawrence took the starting job and won the National Championship as a freshman in 2019, the Clemson QB has been even better than expected.

Since Lawrence became the starter, he has thrown for 8,778 yards and 83 touchdowns while completing 66.5% of his passes, putting together a 165.4 passing efficiency rating. In this time, Clemson has won 26 of 27 games in which Lawrence played, only losing to LSU in the 2020 National Championship game. With this in mind, Lawrence has been locked into the number one pick for some time now.

Strengths:

Any NFL General Manager would love this dude leading their franchise. Lawrence is 6’6″, brings a ton of athleticism to the QB position, and can throw the ball with both accuracy and power. To go along with his athleticism, Lawrence can make just about every throw and has great mechanics in almost all of his throws. Mentally, he brings everything you want to the table as well, breaking down defenses before and after the snap. Lawrence is a leader on the field and plays with a lot of heart, always bouncing back from adversity on the field.

Weaknesses:

Not very many, but he does show a few weaknesses in processing his reads in a few snaps on tape. Overall, these are incredibly small blemishes on an incredible prospect.

My Grade: A+ // Projected Draft Capital: 1st Pick Overall

Justin Fields – Ohio State

Elite Rookie QBs
Justin Fields

In 247Sports High School Prospect Rankings, the 2018 high school class saw two quarterbacks from Georgia vying to be the highest-rated prospect: one named Trevor Lawrence, and the other named Justin Fields. Like Lawrence, Fields is also a top ten 247Sports high school prospect of all time, tied for the 8th highest prospect grade ever given.

Fields signed and enrolled with the University of Georgia after his recruitment. However, Fields failed to unseat Jake Fromm from the Bulldogs’ starting QB position in his freshman season. After Fields spent the large majority of his Freshman season on the bench, he announced he would be transferring and eventually landed in Columbus, Ohio as the starting Quarterback for The Ohio State Buckeyes.

With Fields at the helm, the Buckeyes went 13-0 in 2019 before losing to Lawrence’s Clemson in the College Football Playoff Semifinal. For his efforts in 2019, Fields secured First-Team Big 10 and Second-Team All-American honors, as well as being named a finalist for both the Heisman trophy (best player in college football) and Davey O’Brien Award (best QB in college football). Currently, the Buckeyes sit at 6-0 atop the Big Ten poised to play Clemson in the Playoff Semifinal.

Strengths

Fields possesses a strong arm, which is he able to use effortlessly with his feet set or on the move. Fields’ arm talent is also on display when it comes to how quickly he can get rid of the ball. Fields has shown his ability on the quick release often, as Ohio State coach Ryan Day has implemented many Run-Pass Option (RPO) concepts for the young gunslinger. Alongside Fields’ arm talent, he also shows an abundance of mental talent, reading the field quickly and making smart decisions delivering the football. Even when the play breaks down for the Buckeyes, Fields stays composed and continues to make good decisions under pressure.

Fields is not one-dimensional though, as he also brings another rushing threat to the Buckeyes backfield. Fields has said that he can run a 40-yard dash in the 4.40-second range. If true, Fields would likely be the 2nd fastest starting Quarterback in the NFL behind only Lamar Jackson. Along with game-changing speed, Fields also runs with intelligence and vision whether it’s a designed runs or a scramble. He usually makes the correct decision on zone-read plays and options, which he will continue to use in the pro game.

Weaknesses

Fields doesn’t give up on plays, even when it is advantageous to him. He often chooses to either force the ball downfield or use his legs rather than throw the ball away or take a sack when he is in trouble. Furthermore, Fields needs to improve his pre-snap reads against blitzes and improve at diagnosing coverages. NFL scouts may be worried that Ohio State’s simplistic RPO offense has not given enough mental reps to Fields to be able to run an NFL offense. Unfortunately, some of these transitional issues have reared their head for another recent Buckeye grad, Dwayne Haskins. These issues may worry NFL teams for Fields’ early-career abilities. However, Fields seems to have more talent than Haskins had coming out of college.

My Grade: A // Projected Draft Capital: Top-3 Pick

If you’ve made it this far, thanks for reading. You can find me on Twitter @KL_Fantasy, and feel free to send me questions about anything football related. Be on the lookout for future posts of my rookie QB profiles over the next couple weeks, along with more Dynasty content from The Undroppables.

Money Makers & Heart Breakers (Fantasy Football 2020 – Week 17)

Week 17 is here. This is the last week of the regular season, and many players may get pulled out of games or might not play at all. You will need to pay special attention to the inactives this week as some teams will sit players because they have nothing on the line. We already know that Patrick Mahomes will be resting, and you can expect other Chiefs players to join him on the sideline as they have absolutely nothing to play for at the moment.

You will also want to pay attention to teams that have things on the line this week, as their starters will be going and playing hard to determine playoff positioning; in some cases to try to get into the playoffs. The Dolphins, Colts, Titans, Ravens, and Browns are all playing for something in the AFC. Meanwhile in the NFC the Packers, Bears, Cardinals, Seahawks, Rams, and Washington Football Team all have something to play for.

Also, I am running a Fantasy Playoff Challenge on NFL.com in conjunction with Ride Hard Breath Easy which is an organization that raises money to help fight lung cancer. This will be a $10 buy in with half the money going to the charity and the other half going to payouts. Please send your email address, and NFL.com ID to receive an invitation to mreedy29@gmail.com.

Happy New Year! If you are new around here this is how it works:

Money Maker – I think this person will perform well this week and be better than projections

Heart Breaker – These players will not meet their projections


Quarterbacks

💰 Money Makers

Tom Brady ($8,400 on FanDuel and $7,200 on DraftKings)

If you didn’t notice, Brady really does a fantastic job of beating up on lousy defenses. He hit the Falcons defense up for 390 yards and 2 touchdowns in Week 15 and draws them again in Week 17. The Falcons are the worst defense against quarterbacks in fantasy.

Kirk Cousins ($7,700 on FanDuel and $6,300 on DraftKings)

In Week 9 Cousins threw for 220 yards and 3 touchdowns against the Lions. He draws the Lions again in Week 17. Dalvin Cook is out and the passing game will be clicking. I would expect another 3 touchdown game or more this weekend.

Philip Rivers ($7,300 on FanDuel and $6,000 on DraftKings)

The Colts play the Jaguars in Week 17. The Jaguars have given up multiple touchdowns to the passing game in 9 straight weeks. The Jaguars have only one game on the entire season where the quarterback has not passed for either 30 yards or multiple touchdowns against them. Rivers is a strong floor play.

Other quarterbacks to play in Week16:

There’s the obvious: Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson, and Justin Herbert

The not so obvious: Cam Newton and Ryan Tannehill

💔 Heart Breakers

Kyler Murray

Murray has an injury that kept him out of practice on Wednesday, which is not a great sign. He’s also going to go up against the Rams defense which is the toughest against opposing quarterbacks in the NFL. Murray did throw 3 touchdowns against the Rams in Week 13, so there is hope.

Baker Mayfield

The Steelers are the second toughest defense on quarterbacks in the league behind only the Rams. Mayfield struggles mightily last week against the Jets with all of his wide receivers on the COVID list; this week doesn’t get easier even if they’re all back.

Andy Dalton

The Cowboys play the Giants in Week 17. You probably weren’t going to play Dalton anyways, but you may have considered him for DFS as he had an amazing game in Week 16 against the Eagles with 377 yards and 3 touchdowns. The Giants are a much better defense against the pass, giving up an average of 258 yards and a touchdown weekly to opposing quarterbacks.

Other quarterbacks to avoid: Sam Darnold and Jalen Hurts

Running Backs

💰 Money Makers

David Montgomery ($8,200 on FanDuel and $7,700 on DraftKings)

Yes, Montgomery is listed here yet again. With 100 yards and/or a touchdown in each of the last 5 games will get you noticed. Playing the Packers bottom 10 defense against running backs will ensure I play you. Montgomery keeps rolling to finish out the season.

Jonathan Taylor ($8,400 on FanDuel and $7,400 on DraftKings)

The Jaguars who give up an average of 117 yards and a touchdown per game on the ground. Meanwhile Taylor has been on fire, having rushed for 307 yards and 5 touchdowns in total over the past three weeks. Giddy Up Taylor, giddy up.

Melvin Gordon ($6,800 on FanDuel and $5,700 on DraftKings)

Gordon didn’t produce all that well the last time he played the Raiders; only 46 yards on 11 carries. The Raiders are the fourth friendliest defense for running backs in fantasy football. The Raiders give up an average of 106 yards on the ground and another 44 yards receiving to running backs weekly.

Other running backs to play in Week 16:

The obvious: Aaron Jones, Alvin Kamara, Nick Chubb, and Derrick Henry

The not so obvious: Josh Jacobs and J.K. Dobbins

💔 Heart Breakers

Todd Gurley

If you were planning on playing Gurley in DFS, you must be absolutely crazy. If you have him in season long, he is up against the Buccaneers and their defense which has given up only a single 100 yard game all season. WOOF!

Miles Sanders

The Washington Football Team is actually very good against the run. They give up an average of 107 total yards to running backs on average. The last time the WFT gave up 100 yards rushing to a running back was Week 3 to Nick Chubb. It doesn’t look good for Sanders in Week 17.

Kenyan Drake

The Rams defense is one I talk about every single week as it’s one of the best in the league against both the pass and the run. In Week 13 Drake had 49 yards and a touchdown against the Rams. IF he doesn’t get that touchdown, it’s a horrible game. No one has rushed for over 100 yards against the Rams this season. This doesn’t look good.

Other running backs that will cost you in Week 16: Devin Singletary and Chris Carson

Wide Receivers

💰 Money Makers

Antonio Brown ($6,000 on FanDuel and $5,500 on DraftKings)

Atlanta sucks against wide receivers. In Week 15 Brown had 5 receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown against the Falcons. Brown also had a touchdown last week against the Lions, and I expect him to make it a trifecta with yet another touchdown this week.

Kendrick Bourne ($4,900 on FanDuel and $4,300 on DraftKings)

Bourne is literally the last wide receiver standing for the Niners. The Niners are playing the Seahawks and the second friendliest defense for wide receivers. In Week 8 Bourne hit this defense up for 8 receptions and 84 yards. This week will be the Bourne Supremacy.

Sterling Shepard ($5,500 on FanDuel and $5,200 on DraftKings)

The Cowboys are the third worst defense against wide receivers in the league. They were burned deep last week by DeSean Jackson. Shepard had a 29% target share last week against the Ravens, which he turned in 77 yards and a touchdown. This looks like a great place to plug Shepard into your DFS lineups and cash in.

Other wide receivers to play in Week 16:

The obvious: Davante Adams, Allen Robinson, Stefon Diggs, Calvin Ridley, and DK Metcalf

The not so obvious: Brandin Cooks and Marvin Jones

💔 Heart Breakers

Christian Kirk

The Rams are the number 1 defense against wide receivers. In Week 13, Kirk had 1 reception for 2 yards against the Rams. I know that Kirk looked great last week with 7 receptions for 76 yards; that was last week.

Desean Jackson

Let’s just make this all Eagles wideouts. The Washington Football Team is good against wide receivers, the Eagles passing game has looked good as of late. The WFT gives up only 150 yards in total to this position weekly and have only given up 10 touchdowns to wide receivers on the season.

Jarvis Landry

The Browns play the Steelers in Week 17. In Week 6 Landry had 3 receptions for 40 yards against the Steelers. He’s someone I am staying away from in DFS lineups. Landry will need a touchdown to be productive.

Other wide receivers will cost you: DeVante Parker and Mike Williams

Tight Ends

💰 Money Makers

Mark Andrews ($7,200 on FanDuel and $5,800 on DraftKings)

Andrews has become more active in the passing game for the Ravens recently. Andrews has double digit fantasy points in each of his last 4 games played. He also had 6 receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown against this same Bengals defense in Week 5. Looks like a fantastic play this week in DFS or your playoff lineup.

Robert Tonyan ($6,300 on FanDuel and $5,000 on DraftKings)

The Packers play the Bears in Week 17. In Week 12 Tonyan had 5 receptions for 67 yards and a touchdown against the Bears. You can expect similar numbers this week, as tight ends have scored the second most fantasy points against the Bears defense this season.

Other tight ends to play in Week 17:

The obvious: Darren Waller

The not so obvious: Logan Thomas, T.J. Hockenson, and Hayden Hurst

💔 Heart Breakers

Austin Hooper

Hooper had a very good last week against a poor Jets defense with none of the Browns starting wide receivers playing. This week he draws the Steelers defense, which is the toughest against tight ends in the league.

Jimmy Graham

In Week 12 Graham had 3 receptions for 32 yards against the Packers fourth ranked defense against tight ends. I wouldn’t expect much more in Week 17. The Packers only give up an average of 44 yards per game to the position.

Thanks for checking out our Money Makers and Heart Breakers column. For more great content from The Undroppables, follow us on Twitter, follow @MikeReedyFF for more great content.

The Undroppables 2021 Rookie Draft 1.0

Our very own Jax Falcone is already grinding away at 2021 offseason content, and it starts with a mock rookie draft he hosted from December 16th – December 18th with members of The Undroppables team. Check out the picks each GM made and their reasoning for each!

Jump to the start of each round by clicking below:
– Round 1
– Round 2
– Round 3

Superflex Dynasty Rookie Mock Draft Order

Pick #1 – Jax Falcone, @DynoGameTheory
Pick #2 – Justin Mandaro, @JMan_FF
Pick #3 – Vivek Iyer, @FantasyandSport
Pick #4 – Tommy Mo, @2on1FFB
Pick #5 – Michael Edge, @FantasyFBStoner
Pick #6 – Steve Houston, @FantasyDukes
Pick #7 – Kyle Larson, @KL_Fantasy
Pick #8 – Kayne Rob, @KayneRob
Pick #9 – Randal Kennedy, @FF_Terminator
Pick #10 – Marc Mathyk, @Masterjune70
Pick #11 – Dan, @awlsabermetrics
Pick #12 – Brad Wire, @BradWireFF

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Trevor Lawrence (Credit: Mark J. Rebilas (USA TODAY))

Round 1

1.01 – Trevor Lawrence – QB – Clemson – Jr. – 6’6” 220

If you have the 1.01 in a Superflex rookie draft, it’s going to be very difficult to fade Trevor Lawrence. He’s been the Chalk 1.01 for 2 years now. He draws comparisons to Peyton Manning as a passer, but he also holds the Konami Code keys as well, with 861 career rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns.  – @DynoGameTheory

1.02 – Travis Etienne – RB – Clemson – Sr. – 5’10” 210

A lot is to be said about this QB class coming in, and I could have easily taken Justin Fields or one of the other big-arm guys, but I could not pass up on arguably the best running back in the draft. Where Etienne ends up is the question mark, but his explosiveness in the backfield and touches in the passing game make him an ideal candidate for any team as a starter out of the gate.  – @JMan_FF

1.03 – Justin Fields – QB – Ohio State – Jr. – 6’3” 228

Fields is my rookie QB2 with a huge tier gap after him. In my opinion, he should be the 1.02 in Superflex drafts, especially when landing spots are unknown, which can drastically impact RB production.  – @FantasyandSport

1.04 – Najee Harris – RB – Alabama – Sr. – 6’2” 230

Currently my 2nd ranked RB after Travis Etienne. Even though this is a Superflex draft, I’ll take my next-highest ranked player after the top 2 QBs are off the board. Harris is a prototypical Alabama running back, following in the same mold as Derrick Henry. He’s big, productive (1,000+ yards and 20+ TDs the past 2 seasons), and versatile (54 receptions, 553 yards the past 2 seasons).  – @2on1FFB

1.05 – Kyle Pitts – TE – Florida – Jr. – 6’6” 240

He is the consensus #1 at the biggest position of need in fantasy football. He can line up all over the field and will be a matchup nightmare for both linebackers and safeties.
@FantasyFBStoner

1.06 – Trey Lance – QB – North Dakota State – Jr. – 6’4” 225

I can’t pass up the value here in a Superflex league. Lance has about as much upside as any QB in this draft. He reminds me very much of Dak Prescott, and that’s a comparison we might hear a lot.  – @FantasyDukes

1.07 – Zach Wilson – QB – BYU – Jr. – 6’3” 210

Wilson has catapulted himself into being a likely top 5 pick in this year’s NFL draft, and I have him ranked as the QB3 in the class. I’m even tempted to rank him above Ohio State. QB Justin Fields. Wilson throws the ball on a rope and possesses a massive amount of arm talent. Along with his arm skills, Wilson can move outside of the pocket or run designed runs to threaten defenses with his legs. Wilson reminds me of Josh Allen with better mechanics, and his experience in the BYU offense should translate early to the NFL.
@KL_Fantasy

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Ja’Marr Chase (Credit: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

1.08 – Ja’Marr Chase – WR – LSU – Jr. – 6’0” 210

Chase is my WR1 slightly over Devonta Smith. We saw the talent & production in 2019: 21 yards per reception, 1780 total receiving yards, and 20 TDs. He’s a Monster!  – @KayneRob

1.09 – Rashod Bateman – WR – Minnesota – Jr. – 6’2” 210

Nabbing Rashod Bateman with the ninth pick felt like robbery. There’s a long way to go between now and next spring’s NFL Draft, but I’d be shocked if Bateman didn’t find himself near the top of my WR rankings. His combination of size and hands are matched by few of his contemporaries, and he might be the best route runner in the class. Did I mention what he can do after the catch?  – @FF_Terminator

1.10 – Devonta Smith – WR – Alabama – Sr. – 6’1” 175

When there is talk right now that Alabama’s Devonta Smith could be the third wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy ever, getting him at 1.10 in this draft seems like a steal. Remember the hype for Jerry Jeudy as 2020 rookie WR1 last year? Jeudy’s final year’s production was overshadowed by Smith. Many will knock Smith’s age, BMI, and perhaps upcoming athleticism, but no one can dispute how dominant or how special this player has been on the field.  – @Masterjune70

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Jaylen Waddle (Credit: Getty Images)

1.11- Jaylen Waddle – WR- Alabama – Jr. – 5’10” 185

♫ Waddle baby, Waddle baby, Waddle baby, Waddle! ♫ My perspective going into the draft was that at 1.11, my team is probably pretty well stacked at QB, so stick with elite position player picks. That is exactly what Waddle is: Elite. At 5’10” 183 lbs, Waddle shows impressive speed and playmaking ability as a home run threat every time he touches the ball. To me, the only reason he is available at 1.11 is due to his ankle injury earlier in the season.
@awlsabermetrics

1.12 – Kyle Trask – QB – Florida – Jr. – 6’5” 240

Picking from the 12 slot because my team won the ‘ship (duh), I felt comfortable taking Trask here. He might be better off sitting a year, but he has shown this year that he has the skill and build to be an NFL caliber QB. I don’t mind him sitting on my taxi squad for a year to develop and build value.
@BradWireFF

Round 2

2.01 – Javonte Williams – RB – North Carolina – Jr. – 5’10” 220

Javonte Williams showed up as a sophomore, but his 2020 junior season is exactly what we’re seeking in a future NFL bell cow RB. His 25 receptions for over 300 yards is hugely important to add to 1,140 rushing yards and 22 total TDs in 2020 (11 games). If he has a great combine and landing spot, he won’t ever be available at this pick in your rookie draft. – @DynoGameTheory

2.02 – Chuba Hubbard – RB – Oklahoma State – Sr. – 5’11” 200

2020 wasn’t kind for Hubbard, who originally said he was sitting out and then changed his mind. He played in only 7 games and had fewer than 5 yards per carry on the year, however he had more than 6 yards per carry in his freshman and sophomore years. Hubbard doesn’t get much work in the passing game, but has the ability to make people miss in open space. After taking Etienne in the first and missing out on the stud receivers, Chuba was my next best on the board.
@JMan_FF

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2.03 – Mac Jones – QB – Alabama – Jr. – 6’2” 215

I was debating between Jones and Rondale Moore with this pick. My decision was largely predicated on his recent rise up the QB ranks and a matching rise in projected draft capital. QBs are so valuable in Superflex, leading me to pick Jones here.  – @FantasyandSport

2.04 – Amon-Ra St. Brown – WR – USC – Jr. – 6’1” 195

St. Brown is a homer prospect for me (same high school, favorite college), but he’s proven his worth this year in a limited season for the Trojans. His skills on the field and production have improved in each of his three seasons, and he was positioned for a major breakout in 2020 with Kedon Slovis returning and Michael Pittman Jr. leaving. St. Brown has exceptional ball tracking skills and is adept at winning the end zone fade. He’s come on hot most recently, catching 7 TDs in his last 3 games.  – @2on1FFB

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Credit: Getty Images

2.05 – Rondale Moore – WR – Purdue – Jr. – 5’9” 180

This was the easiest selection of the draft for me, as the talent drops off a cliff here. Moore is a dynamic playmaker who burst on the scene against Ohio State as a freshman, but seemingly hasn’t been used right since.  – @FantasyFBStoner

2.06 – Terrace Marshall Jr. – WR – LSU – Jr. – 6’3” 205

Marshall hasn’t been as productive as other high profile LSU WRs in recent seasons, but he does have 23 TDs over the past two seasons and the athletic profile of an alpha WR at 6’3” 200 lbs, with plenty of speed to boot.  – @FantasyDukes

2.07 – Chris Olave – WR – Ohio State – Jr. – 6’1” 190

In 2020, Olave is averaging 6 receptions, 88 yards, and 0.8 TD per game. He has good burst off the line and quickly changes direction in his routes. The biggest knock with Olave is his 6’0”, 185-lb frame, but I think he can still succeed in the NFL at that size. Looking back, I probably would have taken someone else other than Olave if I had the chance now, but I’ve seen some of my more trusted devy accounts write about how good Olave is.
@KL_Fantasy

2.08 – Kenneth Gainwell – RB – Memphis – RS So. – 5’11” 190

Gainwell has so much value at the running back position. He’s the guy who kept Antonio Gibson on the bench in college. Gainwell has dual-threat ability as well.  – @KayneRob

2.09 – Trey Sermon – RB – Ohio State – Sr. – 6’1” 215

Sermon is a downhill runner who reminds me of Chris Carson. This kid is PHYSICAL! His physicality shows in his running style; an upright attacker who would prefer to run you over than run around you. His running style may not keep him around long, but like George Strait, he’s here for a good time, not a long time.  – @FF_Terminator

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Seth Williams (Credit: Greg McWilliams, 247 Sports)

2.10 – Seth Williams – WR – Auburn – Jr. – 6’3” 211

Williams has slipped in the WR rankings from a year ago despite improving. He leads Auburn with a 29.9% team target share, averaging almost 70 yards per game and maintaining an impressive 16.4 yards per reception, all playing with middling quarterback Bo Nix. He’s like the college version of Mike Evans. Big (6’3” 220 lbs), fast (projected 40 time in the 4.4 range), highly productive, and always severely disrespected, thus undervalued. Seth Williams is my kind of guy.
@Masterjune70

2.11- Tamorrion Terry – WR- FSU – Jr. – 6’4” 210

Back-to-back WR picks for me, but this time I took the stab at the big body of Terry at 6’4” 200 lbs. He is raw and has shown problems with concentration drops at times, but at 2.11 the big play ability coupled with his physical attributes make him a very intriguing pick to me. Getting out of FSU and into the hands of pro coaches may make for a 2021 project and growth season, but that is okay. You can’t teach size and making plays, both of which Terry has and can do.  – @awlsabermetrics

2.12 – Jaret Patterson – RB – Buffalo – Jr. – 5’9” 195

Sure, he doesn’t play in a Power Five conference, but Patterson has shown consistency and growth each year he’s played. If he gets some good draft capital, it’s wheels up in my eyes.
@BradWireFF

Round 3

3.01 – Tylan Wallace – WR – Oklahoma State – Sr. – 6’0” 190

Wallace is a top-18 prospect for me in the 2021 class, at worst. So at pick #25, he is a smash. His quick recovery from his late-season ACL injury has been impressive, as was his 86 reception, 1,491 yard, 12 TD season as a true sophomore. I’m ALL IN on Tylan Wallace. – @DynoGameTheory

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Pat Freiermuth (Credit: Abby Drey/MCT)

3.02 – Pat Freiermuth – TE – Penn State – Jr. – 6’5” 258

Freiermuth only played four games this year, but averaged 13.5 yards per reception, which was a career high for him at Penn State. The NFL is turning into a league that leans on the TE a bit more heavily, and that gives Freiermuth nice opportunity at the next level. His big-bodied frame and his ability to beat defenses down the field make him an excellent fit in the NFL and a perfect selection in the 3rd round.  – @JMan_FF

3.03 – Zamir White – RB – Georgia – RS So. – 6’0” 215

I debated between White and Kylin Hill with this pick. At this point, the WR pool is depleted, and so I’d rather take home run shots at RB with the pick, which depends on landing spot. White has proven to be a solid rusher, however as of now he doesn’t have extensive receiving production. White comes from the Georgia RB corps that has recently yielded Todd Gurley, Nick Chubb, Sony Michel, and more.  – @FantasyandSport

3.04 – Sage Surratt – WR – Wake Forest – Jr. – 6’3” 215

The oft-forgotten WR broke out big time in 2019 with 1,001 yards and 11 TDs in just 9 games. Surratt opted out of the 2020 season and has slipped in rankings as a result. He was a Biletnikoff semi-finalist last year and was on the watch in 2020 to win everything but the Heisman. Surratt’s landing spot and opportunity will matter big time, but he’s got the height and skills to be a major steal in the third round.  – @2on1FFB

3.05 – Kylin Hill – RB – Mississippi State – Sr. – 5’11” 210

Hill is a bruising runner that has performed well at the highest level in the SEC. The NFL is all about the tandem backfield these days, and a Mack truck like Hill is a perfect piece for that type of duo.  – @FantasyFBStoner

3.06 – Pooka Williams Jr. – Kansas – Jr. – 5’10” 170

In today’s NFL, surely a team will find a role for the electric Williams Jr. He opted out this past season, but absolutely popped on tape early on in his career with the Jayhawks. I think the year off might have some people off of him, making him a value in the third round. – @FantasyDukes

3.07 – Elijah Moore – WR – Ole Miss – Jr. – 5’9” 185

My final pick came down to two players, Elijah Moore and Washington State RB Max Borghi. After flipping a coin, I picked Moore. Moore has had a fantastic season at Ole Miss, compiling 86 receptions, 1,193 yards and 8 TDs in 8 games this season, only catching less than 10 passes in one outing all season. Moore profiles as a starting slot receiver with outside abilities at the next level. Unfortunately, I don’t think there’s a chance that Moore will be available this late in actual rookie drafts come April.  – @KL_Fantasy

3.08 – Dyami Brown – WR – North Carolina – Jr. – 6’1” 185

My guy Elijah Moore went 1 pick in front of me, but the back-to-back years of solid production made Dyami Brown the next best choice. Good downfield threat with repeat 1,000-yard seasons. – @KayneRob

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Kadarius Toney (Credit: Tim Casey)

3.09 – Kadarius Toney – WR – Florida – Sr. – 6’0” 195

I was looking for upside with my third pick and found it in someone who really shouldn’t have lasted this long. Kadarius Toney has a ridiculous amount of potential; he’s a player that can go the distance anytime he touches the football. His movement in space is effortless, and he operates in traffic like Frogger. If he diversifies his route tree and shores up his hands, Toney will be downright scary at the next level.  – @FF_Terminator

3.10 – Desmond Ridder – QB – Cincinnati – Jr. – 6’4” 215

Desmond Ridder is pretty much what you want in a quarterback for the current NFL landscape. He’s got a rocket arm, good accuracy, and stellar athleticism. At 6’4” and 215 lbs, Ridder could afford to put on another 20 pounds and still maintain his rushing prowess, which is one of the best at the college level. He could be the next Russell Wilson or Dak Prescott, drafted in the middle rounds but ending up being a superstar. I’ll take that chance at the end of the third round in Superflex rookie drafts.  – @Masterjune70

3.11- Javian Hawkins – RB – Louisville – RS So. – 5’9” 195

It’s always good to escape with at least one running back per draft, and getting Hawkins at the back end of the third felt like a nice get. Though a bit undersized, Hawkins showed off some great play while at Louisville before opting out of the 2020 season in November. He has some clear pros in regards to his shiftiness and speed, while his size will be the big factor in prolonged success. As the NFL moves to more speed-type guys, Hawkins is a great dart-throw at the end of the third.  – @awlsabermetrics

3.12 – Brevin Jordan – TE – Miami – Jr. – 6’3” 240

At 3.12 I like taking dart-throws, and Brevin Jordan is a dart-throw I like. Jordan is a hyper-athletic TE who may not be the best blocker, but he can certainly make plays with the ball in his hands.  – @BradWireFF

For questions and comments on our 1.0 rookie draft, hit us up on Twitter at any of the accounts above and @TheUndroppables. Stay tuned for more rookie and Dynasty content all offseason!

Money Makers & Heart Breakers (Fantasy Football 2020 – Week 16)

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Merry Christmas!

Have you been a good little boy or girl? Fantasy Santa has been watching you. Gee, that sounds like some sort of bad porn flick, doesn’t it? Well, I’ll leave that stuff up to other websites. You probably already know where to look for that type of thing and don’t need any help from me.

So again I say Merry Christmas! Now let’s get on to the Money Makers and the Heart Breakers and put that damn Fantasy Football Championship under your tree.

If you are new around here this is how it works:

Money Maker – I think this person will perform well this week and be better than projections

Heart Breaker – These players will not meet projections


Quarterbacks

💰 Money Makers

Jalen Hurts ($8,200 on FanDuel and $7,000 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

I am jumping on the recency-biased bandwagon for championship week. We saw his floor game Week 14 against the Saints who are a top-3 defense against quarterbacks. Last week Hurts exploded against the Cardinals. He gets the Cowboys in Week 16. The Cowboys have had issues with quarterbacks. Expect the Cowboys to be “Hurting” after Week 16.

Baker Mayfield ($7,600 on FanDuel and $6,100 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

Four straight games of 300 yards and or multiple touchdowns. In Week 16 the Browns play the Jets. I know, I know, last week the Jets looked good against the Rams. I have no explanation for that. The Jets have the second friendliest defense for quarterbacks in fantasy. Baker will be cooking in Week 16.

Tua Tagovailoa ($5,400 on DraftKings) Saturday Slate

Saved his day in Week 15 by rushing for 2 touchdowns against a tough Patriots defense. In Week 16 he gets the Raiders bottom 10 defense and should have some of his receivers back on the field. If you are streaming he is in a nice spot where he will produce a solid floor from passing and rushing.

Other quarterbacks to play in Week16:

There are the obvious: Patrick Mahomes, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, and Justin Herbert

The not so obvious: Tom Brady, Mitch Trubisky, and Jared Goff

💔 Heart Breakers

Josh Allen

Week 16 brings the Patriots defense. They are the third toughest defense on quarterbacks in the NFL. In Week 9, Allen had 154 yards passing and 23 yards and a touchdown rushing. That is his floor. If you have him, you are playing him. We are looking at a 235 yards and a touchdown type of game this week. He won’t kill you, but I don’t see him exploding against the Patriots defense.

Russell Wilson

You know who else is really good against quarterbacks? The Rams. They are literally the best defense against quarterbacks in the NFL. Wilson had his worst game of the season against this same defense in Week 10: 248 yards and 2 interceptions. You can expect this Rams defense to give him fits again this week as they want to bounce back after that Jets debacle..

Philip Rivers

We will round out this segment with the Steelers who are also top three against quarterbacks; do you see a trend here? Rivers has been pretty solid with multiple touchdowns in 5 straight games. His floor will be there in this game too. Solid, but not spectacular.

Other quarterbacks to avoid: Kirk Cousins and Lamar Jackson

Running Backs

💰 Money Makers

Leonard Fournette ($12,000 on FanDuel and $5,500 on DraftKings) Saturday Slate

Ronald Jones will miss Week 16, as he did Week 15. Fournette started in Week 15 and responded with 49 yards and 2 touchdowns rushing and another 16 yards receiving. In Week 16 the Buccaneers play the Lions, the Lions are the worst defense against running backs in the NFL. The Lions give up an average of 116 yards rushing, 45 yards receiving, and 2 touchdowns per game to running backs. Play Fournette; just play him.

David Montgomery ($7,800 on FanDuel and $7,700 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

Who is tearing up the NFL right now? Four weeks in a row, Montgomery has over 100 yards and a touchdown or multiple touchdowns. He has literally carried teams into the fantasy finals. The Jaguars and their defense, which gives up 166 yards rushing per game and another 46 yards receiving per game, are up in Week 16. This will make 5 weeks in a row of spectacular play from Montgomery.

Giovani Bernard ($6,000 on FanDuel and $4,800 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

Last week against the Steelers and their incredible run defense, Bernard had a total of 97 yards and 2 touchdowns. He’s up against the Texans in Week 16 and the second worst defense against the run. If you need him in the championship, I would play him.

Other running backs to play in Week 16:

The obvious: Aaron Jones, Dalvin Cook, Alvin Kamara, Nick Chubb, and Derrick Henry

The not so obvious: Le’Veon Bell, Miles Sanders, J.K. Dobbins, and J.D. McKissic

💔 Heart Breakers

Jonathan Taylor

The Colts play the Steelers in Week 16. The Steelers are the second toughest defense against running backs in the NFL. Taylor has been phenomenal the past 4 games but will have work cut out for him against the Steelers.

Chris Carson

Since Week 4, the Rams defense has not given up more than 65 yards rushing to a running back. The Seahawks play the Rams in Week 16. Carson had a subpar game in Week 15 against the Washington Football Team, and this week lines up as another tough week for Carson to find yardage.

Mike Davis

The Washington Football Team held Chris Carson to 63 yards rushing last week. Davis rushed for 59 yards against a not-so-great Packers defense in Week 15.  Christian McCaffrey is doubtful for Week 16, and the Panthers play WFT. It doesn’t bode well for Davis to have a productive day.

Other running backs that will cost you in Week 16: D’Andre Swift and James Robinson

Wide Receivers

💰 Money Makers

Robert Woods ($7,300 on FanDuel and $7,000 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

The Seahawks have been the worst defense against wide receivers this season. The Seahawks give up an average of 211 yards per game to wide receivers. In Week 9 it was Josh Reynolds that hit them up for 94 yards. Woods had a 24% target share in Week 15 and leads the league in targets per route run.

Emannuel Sanders

Michael Thomas it out for Week 16. Drew Brees is back in the lineup Week 16. The Saints play the Vikings, who are the third friendliest defense to wide receivers and give up an average of 178 yards per game to the position. Sanders is a nice plug and play option for Week 16.

Antonio Brown ($6,800 on FanDuel and $5,300 on DraftKings) Saturday Slate

In Week 15, Brown had 5 receptions for 95 yards and a touchdown on a team-leading 7 targets. Week 16 brings a Lions defense that gives up 194 yards and a touchdown a week to wide receivers. Brown has a special place in Tom Brady’s heart, which means he might need a special place in your lineup.

Other wide receivers to play in Week 16:

The obvious: Davante Adams, Allen Robinson, Tyreek Hill, and Calvin Ridley

The not so obvious: Jarvis Landry and Rashard Higgins

💔 Heart Breakers

DK Metcalf

The Rams are the #1 defense against wide receivers. In Week 10 Jalen Ramsey made Metcalf’s day miserable, holding him to 2 receptions for 28 yards. You are probably playing him if you have him, but it’s going to be a long game for Metcalf this week.

Cole Beasley

The Patriots have been a top 5 defense against the pass all season. In Week 8, Beasley was held to 2 receptions for 24 yards. Only three receivers have topped 100 yards against the Patriots all season. Sit Beasley.

Russell Gage

Gage has been on a tear lately, so you might be tempted to play him. In Week 16 the Falcons play the Chiefs. Only the Rams give up less fantasy points to wide receivers than the Chiefs. I think you can pick up what I just put down, or you can just not play Gage.

Other wide receivers will cost you: Tyler Lockett and Justin Jefferson

Tight Ends Week 5

💰 Money Makers

Austin Hooper ($5,100 on FanDuel and $3,500 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

The Browns passing game has been clicking on all cylinders. The Jets are the worst defense against tight ends in the NFL. Hooper is the Browns tight end  and the Browns play the Jets in Week 16. I know you hate it when I spell it out like this but I can’t help it sometimes.  Hooper is a solid play in the 1 PM slate and will help teams win championships this week.

Logan Thomas ($6,000 on FanDuel and $4,900 on DraftKings) Sunday Slate

Thomas has played three tough defenses in a row and produced incredibly well against them. In Week 15, Thomas had a 27% target share of 15 targets for 13 receptions and 101 yards. In Week 16 the Washington Football Team plays the Panthers and their bottom 10 defense against tight ends. Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas if you have Thomas rostered.

Other tight ends to play in Week 16:

The obvious: Travis Kelce and Darren Waller

The not so obvious: TJ Hockenson, Robert Tonyan, and Hayden Hurst

💔 Heart Breakers

Jordan Reed

Reed has touchdowns in two of the last three games. You may think that means he’s playable against the Cardinals defense, but you would be wrong. The Cardinals are a top five defense against tight ends.

Mark Andrews

Over the last two games, Andrews has had a total of 10 receptions, 144 yards, and a touchdown. This week, the Ravens play the Giants and their top 10 defense against tight ends. If you have him you are playing him, but Andrews will need a touchdown to save his day.

Other tight ends that will cost you: Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry

If you are looking for Defenses to stream, take a look at The Stream Option by Kyle Larson.

Thanks for checking out our Money Makers and Heart Breakers column. For more great content from The Undroppables, follow us on Twitter, follow @MikeReedyFF for more great content, and visit back for Mike’s weekly UNtangling the Wire (waiver wire) article.

Unsung Heroes | Championship Matchups

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OL vs DL matchups for Week 16 – Finals Week! Brad Wire and Tommy Mo bring you their favorite advantages for the most important week in fantasy football. Joining them is the best fantasy football doctor in the biz, Adam Hutchinson