[LT Profits]

Bills | T.J. Yeldon signs with Bills
Free-agent RB T.J. Yeldon (Jaguars) signed a two-year deal with the Buffalo Bills Monday, April 22. Financial terms weren't disclosed.
Link to story
T.J. Yeldon player page

Patriots | Top prospect TEs meet with Pats
Iowa TE Noah Fant and Texas A&M TE Jace Sternberger have scheduled or have take pre-draft visits with the New England Patriots.
Link to story

Patriots | Champs meet with several WR prospects
Mississippi WR A.J. Brown, South Carolina WR Deebo Samuel, Arizona State WR N'Keal Harry and Baylor WR Jalen Hurd have taken or were scheduled to take pre-draft visits with the New England Patriots.
Link to story

Patriots | New England interested in Mecole Hardman Sun Apr 21, 04:32 PM
Georgia WR Mecole Hardman had a pre-draft visit with the New England Patriots and also participated in a private workout with the team.
Link to story


Source: footballguys.com

[JAKEPEAVY21]

Yeldon could be a nice signing for Buffalo.

[LT Profits]

Yeldon could be a nice signing for Buffalo.

Very crowded backfield though, let's see how everything shakes out.

[mpaschal34]

Very crowded backfield though, let's see how everything shakes out.

Agree....probably would have preferred him to end up in another place. McCoy has to go down for him to be of any significance.

[LT Profits]

Agree....probably would have preferred him to end up in another place. McCoy has to go down for him to be of any significance.

Frank Gore is there too, and he showed he is still effective when used as a part time player last year averaging 4.6 YPC.

[mpaschal34]

Frank Gore is there too, and he showed he is still effective when used as a part time player last year averaging 4.6 YPC.

Oh wow....didn’t even realize that’s where he ended up.

Well at least I know the trivia question on which backfield has the most career rushing yards.

[LT Profits]

Oh wow....didn’t even realize that’s where he ended up.

Well at least I know the trivia question on which backfield has the most career rushing yards.

More than 49ers?

[LT Profits]

Oh wow....didn’t even realize that’s where he ended up.

Well at least I know the trivia question on which backfield has the most career rushing yards.

Yeah, you are right, Niners are stacked but they lack the longevity.


Matt Breida
Jerick McKinnon
Tevin Coleman
Raheem Mostert
Jeff Wilson

[mpaschal34]

Hard to believe Gore is 4th on the all time rushing list. Only 521 away from passing Barry Sanders.

[LT Profits]

Hard to believe Gore is 4th on the all time rushing list. Only 521 away from passing Barry Sanders.

Longevity. He was thought to be finished like 4 years ago, but as long as his carries are limited, he can still be fine. But also because of that, he has a low ceiling going forward.

[LT Profits]

NFL | Multiple teams interested in Malik Taylor
Ferris State WR Malik Taylor has received interest from the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, Denver Broncos, Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Chargers, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, Green Bay Packers and Houston Texans leading up to the 2019 NFL Draft.
Link to story

Cowboys | Amari Cooper happy with chemistry with QB
Dallas Cowboys WR Amari Cooper said he has natural chemistry with QB Dak Prescott and believes they can be more productive this upcoming season.

Footballguys view: Cooper said he has been working out with Prescott this offseason to strengthen their chemistry. That should lead to better production and perhaps more consistent production for the Cowboys duo in 2019.

Link to story
Amari Cooper player page

49ers | GM unsure when Robbie Gould will report
San Francisco 49ers franchise free-agent PK Robbie Gould has not signed his tender offer at this point, and general manager John Lynch said he is not sure when Gould will report to the team. Lynch is confident that Gould will be with the team for the start of the 2019 season.
Link to story
Robbie Gould player page

Steelers | Coach expects more from James Washington
Pittsburgh Steelers WR James Washington will have a bigger role in the passing game in 2019, and head coach Mike Tomlin said he expects great things from Washington.

Footballguys view: Washington has talent but didn't flash much as a rookie in 2018. He's got long arms and great ball-tracking ability which can be featured on big throws down the field. With Antonio Brown (Raiders) traded away, the Steelers are looking for talent to elevate at the wide receiver position behind JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Link to story
James Washington player page

NFL | No knee brace for Dwayne Haskins
Ohio State QB Dwayne Haskins wore a knee brace this past season for health precautions but said he does not plan to wear a brace in the NFL.

Footballguys view: Good news for Haskins here. He's not a mobile quarterback and won't make anyone miss on the ground. Haskins is a pocket passer who does a good job of getting the ball out on time to the first or initial read. Problems arise when Haskins is asked to abandon the pocket or work off-script. Haskins will be a first-round pick in the 2019 NFL draft.

Link to story

NFL | Dawson Knox may be early Day 2 pick
Mississippi TE Dawson Knox has met with or visited 13 teams this spring and impressed them with his athleticism and upside. According to DraftAnalyst.com's Tony Pauline, the 'belief is that Knox could end up being the fourth tight end off the board and land in the top half of Round 2.'

Footballguys view: We could see that happening, so long as the top three tight ends (T.J. Hockenson, Noah Fant, Irv Smith Jr.) go off the board ahead of him...perhaps all in the first round. Knox never scored a touchdown in college but many in the scouting community feel he was never used the right way in the Rebels offense. Nagging injuries have plagued him since high school, but Knox has a willingness to learn and an aggressive mindset on the field...something that should appeal to plenty of teams out there.

Link to story

NFL | Will Grier could sneak into first round?
West Virginia QB Will Grier could potentially be drafted 'as early as the late part of Round 1 and no later than the middle portion of the second frame,' according to DraftAnalyst.com's Tony Pauline, who lists the New England Patriots, New York Giants and Carolina Panthers as the teams most likely to select him.

Footballguys view: We believe Grier has quite a bit to like about his game. He's competitive and does not go away quietly. Instead, Grier is known to go down swinging and won't hesitate to challenge a defense. Throw in his accuracy and sneaky athleticism and you can see some team late in the first round falling for him...or perhaps some team will trade back into the end of the first round to add him.

Link to story



Source: footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

I don’t see Grier being worth a first round pick.

[LT Profits]

I don’t see Grier being worth a first round pick.

And I don't see Murray being a #1 pick, nobody said GMs are rocket scientists.

[LT Profits]

Raiders | Marshawn Lynch retires
Oakland Raiders RB Marshawn Lynch has decided to retire Wednesday, April 24.
Link to story
Marshawn Lynch player page

Cowboys | Ezekiel Elliott's option picked up
Dallas Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott's fifth-year option was exercised Wednesday, April 24.
Link to story
Ezekiel Elliott player page

Steelers | Ben Roethlisberger in final stages of deal
Updating a previous report, Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is in the final stages of a contract extension that will make him one of the highest-paid players annually. Terms weren't disclosed, but it could be announced as early as Wednesday, April 24.
Link to story
Ben Roethlisberger player page

Dolphins | Miami interested in Josh Rosen?
The Miami Dolphins have been actively researching Arizona Cardinals QB Josh Rosen, according to MMQB's Peter King, and could look to make an offer if Arizona selects Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray with the top overall pick.
Link to story
Josh Rosen player page

Patriots | Josh Gordon signs inks one-year deal
Restricted free-agent WR Josh Gordon signed his one-year tender with the New England Patriots worth $2.025 million on Tuesday, April 23.
Link to story
Josh Gordon player page

Rams | Jared Goff's option picked up
Los Angeles Rams QB Jared Goff had his fifth-year rookie option for 2020 exercised Tuesday, April 23.
Link to story
Jared Goff player page

49ers | Robbie Gould asks for a trade
San Francisco 49ers PK Robbie Gould, who has been offered the team's franchise tag but has yet to sign it, has informed the team he will not negotiate or sign a long-term deal with them and wants to be traded, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Link to story
Robbie Gould player page


Source: footballguys.com

[Otters27]

I remember watching Marshawn Lynch when he was first on the bills. Knew he'd be great. Nice carreer even though a crazy guy

[mpaschal34]

Today is the day.

[LT Profits]

Raiders | Dwayne Haskins rises up OAK's board
Ohio State QB Dwayne Haskins has risen up the Oakland Raiders' board after he impressed them with his workout. Haskins could be an option at No. 4 overall.
Link to story

Raiders | Josh Jacobs a first-round fit?
The Oakland Raiders plan to select a running back early in the NFL Draft, according to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, who mentions Alabama RB Josh Jacobs as a possible target in the 20s.
Link to story

Lions | Drew Lock met with Detroit
Missouri QB Drew Lock said he met with the Detroit Lions on the Missouri campus leading up to the 2019 Draft but did not work out for the team.
Link to story

NFL | N'Keal Harry expects to be selected early
Arizona State WR N'Keal Harry said he hopes to be selected in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft but believes he likely would be selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 33rd overall pick if he is available.
Link to story

Chiefs | No charges for Tyreek Hill
Kansas City Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill will not be charged in a child abuse investigation involving his son.
Link to story
Tyreek Hill player page

Browns | Duke Johnson still absent
Cleveland Browns RB Duke Johnson is not participating in the voluntary minicamp this week, according to a source.
Link to story
Duke Johnson Jr player page

Redskins | Washington looking at Dwayne Haskins
Ohio State QB Dwayne Haskins is believed to be a target for the Washington Redskins in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, according to sources.
Link to story


Source: footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

the josh jacob news was correct....wonder how he will work out.

not a very exciting 1st day for fantasy football:

1 RB
2 WR
3 QB's

[Otters27]

Yep all positions important to real football. Only the skill positions for fantasy. That's why they call it fantasy

[LT Profits]

2019 First Round Winners and Losers



What was that? It’s difficult to make sense of any larger trends emerging from the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft because so many of the breathtaking moments were the product of the story of a specific decision-make or team. We did have chaos, but not from the #1 pick (or #2 or #3). We were given notice of some of the most outlandish picks (at least in terms of the conventional wisdom) but it was hard to know what to believe in the deluge of information throughout the spring. It was a memorable draft, but in a not entirely positive way. What exactly did we witness? And what does it mean for fantasy football?

Arizona might have an offense - The grossly telegraphed Kyler Murray (Oklahoma QB - 1) pick came to pass as predicted. In new head coach Kliff Kingsbury and Kyler we trust. The offensive line isn’t great, but Murray can mask some of that with his mobility. There’s plenty of talent left at wide receiver still on the board (even DK Metcalf) to upgrade outside receiver and we should see a wildly more creative offense next season. Murray is quick and fast enough to be very productive as a scrambler and should be considered as a late round option in redraft leagues.

What about Josh Rosen? Could they keep him? They aren’t going to get a first round pick, and they might not get a second. Is it smarter to just keep another futures bet with the biggest payoff of any position in the NFL? The risk is the locker room, and further souring Rosen’s stock as he rots on the bench. All parties are probably better off if Rosen is traded. Miami is in plum position to trade for him after the Giants and Washington took quarterbacks, but it’s not exactly fertile soil. Denver, New England, and the Chargers have also been connected to him, with only Denver offering a path to a starting job in the near future. It’s a setback for his career, but it could be fuel for the motivation fire and still enable success.

Fantasy Winners: David Johnson, Christian Kirk, Larry Fitzgerald, Kyler Murray

Fantasy Loser: Josh Rosen

San Francisco and the Jets gave us somewhat predictable picks, with the most obvious Nick Bosa (Ohio State EDGE - 2) to the 49ers, and what should have been more obvious Quinnen Williams (Alabama DT - 3) to the Jets. The 49ers have a very formidable front four on passing downs, and the Jets have great talent and depth on the interior offensive line, let’s see what Gregg Williams can do with it to mask the lack of edge rush.

Then Gruden went super safe. Look, Danny Kelly loved Clelin Ferrell (Clemson EDGE - 4), putting him sixth on his board. He doesn’t have the rare trait upside of say Brian Burns, but he’s a high football character well established player who looked like a player worth this pick at times back in 2017. Oakland probably could have traded down and gotten him, but at least he’s an instant starter at a position of great need.

Another boring telegraphed pick, Devin White (LSU LB - 5) to Tampa. Instant IDP gold. Plug and play with Kwon Alexander in San Francisco.

Then we get loopy. A telegraphed pick, but not a boring one. Daniel Jones (Duke QB - 6) is your franchise quarterback Giants fans, sorry. There’s very little to get excited about here. One of his calling cards is having a head coach that coached the Manning’s. He was described as Eli Manning with less pizzazz, personality-wise. Dave Gettleman said he might sit for three years.He said he fell in love with him at the Senior Bowl. The. Senior. Bowl. A lot of us will be happy to eat crow if the underwhelming Jones hits.

Draft Loser: New York Giants

So Washington avoided the fate of trading up for Daniel Jones. Or drafting Daniel Jones.

The Jaguars had Josh Allen (Kentucky EDGE - 7) fall into their laps, a productive edge rusher who can also play in space, with room for his game to grow. Having him slide meant no boring Grandpa Coughlin pick like Jonah Williams. The Lions joined the Jets as teams heavily reported to want a trade down (and the Lions must have gotten an offer from the Steelers), and stayed home to take a tight end. Perhaps they put out that they wanted to trade down to keep someone from trading up for TJ Hockenson (Iowa TE - 8)? They had to contemplate there was a good chance they would get him. Anyway, I believe this tight end adds extra versatility with a swiss army knife blocker skillset and plus receiving skills, plus the mentality of this offense can harvest more from his blocking.

Fantasy Winner: TJ Hockenson

The Bills get a Tasmanian Devil on the interior in Ed Oliver (Houston DT - 9). This is a big win for them and I can’t wait to watch Oliver.

Draft Winner: Buffalo

The Steelers give up inflated versions of the picks Brown and Bell (next year’s comp) turned into to get Devin Bush (Michigan LB - 10), who plugs a Ryan Shazier sized hole in the defense. Instant IDP hit. The Steelers haven’t made a move like this since Troy Polamalu, so that’s exciting. Denver gets a second this year and third next year for their trouble.

The Bengals have a high floor tackle slide to them in Jonah Williams (Alabama OT - 11). He’ll start right away, maybe at left tackle. They have done a terrific job rebuilding their offensive line. One wonders if Dwayne Haskins would have been the pick if Williams hadn’t fallen. Andre Dillard is another player that was connected to this pick. Either way, it’s a win for the Bengals offense and team.

Draft Winner: Cincinnati

Fantasy Winners: Andy Dalton, Joe Mixon, AJ Green, Tyler Boyd

The Packers were up for their first pick, and took an edge rusher in Rashan Gary (Michigan DL - 12) who has a torn labrum and rarely played up to his admittedly rare set of physical traits. Now I believe you can never have enough pass rushers, and Gary can line up inside, but there were a lot of strong talents that could help Aaron Rodgers available here. Fast forward to Green Bay’s pick at 30. Err, 21. They gave up two fourth round picks to Seattle to move up for Bob Sanders-esque safety Darnell Savage (Maryland S - 21). So no help for Rodgers via the line or the targets. There’s a lotta draft left, so we can’t call Rodgers a fantasy loser yet.

Miami did well for themselves and got dancing bear Christian Wilkins, who should instantly be a cornerstone of their defense. Atlanta swung for a single, but made solid contact when they took a guard Chris Lindstrom (Boston College G - 14). They also traded back into the first to 31 to get Kaleb McGary (Washington OT - 31). These guys are both hosses who should start and improve this offensive line right away.

Fantasy Winners: Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Calvin Ridley, Devonta Freeman

Washington was patient and got a great pocket passing prospect in Dwayne Haskins (Ohio State QB - 15). They need offensive line health and another receiver, but Jay Gruden is a good offensive mind and he should alter some of his bread and butter approaches to fit Haskins more stationary see it, throw it inclination to take on a defense with his mind and arm more than his feet or mobility. This will take a few years to really take root, and if Haskins plays this year, it’s actually bad for the offense, but overall it’s potentially good for the dynasty stock of Derrius Guice

Carolina got a best case scenario when a speed rusher with length was still there at 16. I am alarmed at the lack of physicality in Brian Burns (Florida State EDGE - 16) game, but he is a rare edge rusher prospect. It’s fitting that he’s on the same team as Bruce Irvin, a similarly suspect prospect vs. the run. I’m not a fan of Burns, but I understand the view point that Carolina is a Draft Winner.

And the Giants get their hog molly in Dexter Lawrence (Clemson DT - 17). It is entirely possible that Lawrence is a two down player. Gettleman really does think its about running and stopping the run, doesn’t he? There were any number of players that would have been redeeming picks that addressed a hole at right tackle.

Back a boringly predictable, but very strong pick when the Vikings offensive line gained Garrett Bradbury (NC State C - 18). This problem unit could firm up around him. The poor Nashville home crowd had to celebrate a first round pick who might not play this year, but Jeffery Simmons (Mississippi State DT - 19) is a major disruptive force who could have been a top 5-7 pick if healthy. Denver gets their pick and it’s finally a fantasy position other than quarterback. Joe Flacco doesn’t exactly summon up visions of fantasy abundance, so this is a shrugworthy destination for Noah Fant (Iowa TE - 20). He has the rare physical profile to be a primary receiver at tight end, which is still fantasy relevant, no matter how poor the quarterback is, but Green Bay and New England were linked to him, so this is a disappointment.

Fantasy Loser: Noah Fant

The Seahawks traded down to get two more fourths and took LJ Collier (TCU EDGE - 29), an edge rusher who is a mean customer, but not as flashy physically as the other first round edge rushers. Most didn’t have him in the first. They traded down out of the first and got yet another fourth and fifth from the Giants. The Giants took a corner in DeAndre Baker, (Georgia CB - 30)that is not dissimilar from Eli Apple, who went onto play well for the Saints after Gettleman got a fourth and seventh for him.

The Eagles got in front of the Texans and smartly nabbed Andre Dillard (Washington State OT - 22) the best pass-blocking tackle in this draft. Smart teams get out ahead of needs before they become needs. Jason Peters has been great, but it’s getting late. It cost them a 4th and 6th to move up three spots.

Draft Winner: Philadelphia

Fantasy Winner: Carson Wentz

The Texans took a tackle, but not Jawaan Taylor, who many had in the top 10, but clearly has a medical concern. They took small school high ceiling project Tytus Howard (Alabama State OT - 23). Well at least they got the position right. Hey, Terron Armstead hit from a small school, but he was a third round pick. Deshaun Watson could be a winner or loser from this development, most would lean loser, but as with all of these propositions, time will tell.

Oakland gets Josh Jacobs (Alabama RB - 24). I’m all for this pick because he can be one of the draft’s best power backs and one of its best receiving backs. He’ll get a chance to be a clear lead back.

Fantasy Winner: Josh Jacobs

Baltimore gets Marquise Brown (Oklahome WR - 25). He meshes well with Lamar Jackson’s ability to keep plays alive. Obviously they feel good about his lis franc surgery and even though some will cast this as where fantasy receivers go to die, I love it for Brown because he has little competition and will grow with Jackson.

Fantasy Winners: Lamar Jackson and Marquise Brown

Chris Ballard, you’re shrewd. The Colts get Washington’s 2020 2nd to move down 20 spots, but because they have #34, the second pick tomorrow, from the Jets trade last year, so they’ll still likely get a player they would have been happy with at 26 - and the talent doesn’t drop off much between then at 46, the pick they got from Washington. That Washington second should be an early second like the one they got from the Jets in the trade last year. Washington gets a speed to power edge rusher whose motor runs hot in Montez Sweat (Mississippi State EDGE - 26), a player that could make the cost to move up worth it.

Oakland’s up again and they get big nickel linebacker/Kam Chancellor type safety in Jonathan Abram (Mississippi State S - 27), the third of three Mississippi state defenders taken in the first round, joining the Clemson defensive line for representation tonight.

The Chargers get a great intersection of need, value, and instant impact when bull in a china shop Jerry Tillery (Notre Dame DT - 28) falls to them to revitalize their interior defensive line.

Skip to the last pick as we touched on the Seahawks, Giants, and Falcons picks earlier. Another fantasy position as N’keal Harry (Arizona State WR-32) goes to the Patriots to give help at outside receiver. Demaryius Thomas and Josh Gordon could be meaningful competition, but could also be ghosts. While Harry isn’t a strong route runner or separation creator, he is a monster at the catch point and strong after the catch. The Patriots should know what to do with him

Fantasy Winners: Tom Brady, N’keal Harry

There wasn’t much needle-movement for fantasy, but there was a lot of needle movement for storylines that will be entertaining to continue to watch unfold. The second day should be much more exciting for fantasy leagues, but it is impossible for it to be disorientingly stimulating as this first round. Here’s hoping Giants fans can get some sleep.


Source: footballguys.com

[JAKEPEAVY21]

well I hope Drew Lock is an epic bust now, probably so with Elway's history drafting qbs

[LT Profits]

49ers | Deebo Samuel could start as a rookie
San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel is projected to start opposite WR Dante Pettis, according to NBC Sports' Matt Maiocco, who says the team will slide incumbent starting WR Marquise Goodwin into a smaller role to maximize his speed.
Link to story
Marquise Goodwin player page

Dante Pettis player page

Rams | Darrell Henderson a change-of-pace back
Los Angeles Rams RB Darrell Henderson was selected to serve as a change-of-pace back and not because of lingering concerns about the condition of RB Todd Gurley's knee, according to head coach Sean McVay.
Link to story

Broncos | Joe Flacco not considered short-term answer?
Denver Broncos QB Joe Flacco is expected to be the team's starter for a while, according to GM John Elway, who said he envisioned Flacco and QB Drew Lock as a 'Brett Favre-Aaron Rodgers situation' with the Green Bay Packers.
Link to story
Joe Flacco player page

Bengals | Drew Sample selected as complementary piece
Cincinnati Bengals TE Drew Sample was not selected as an insurance policy for injury-prone TE Tyler Eifert, according to offensive coordinator Brian Callahan, who said Sample will play a different role and called out his ability as a blocker.
Link to story

Bills | LeSean McCoy still RB1 in Buffalo
Buffalo Bills RB LeSean McCoy is still the team's starting running back, according to comments made by GM Brandon Beane following the third-round selection of RB RB Devin Singletary. Beane lauded Singletary's instincts and vision, and did mention age at the position, a reference to McCoy, who turns 31 during the offseason.
Link to story
LeSean McCoy player page

Vikings | Kyle Rudolph's status unchanged?
Minnesota Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph's status with the team has not changed despite the selection of TE Irv Smith, according to GM Rick Spielman, who classified them as 'two different types of tight ends.'
Link to story
Kyle Rudolph player page

Vikings | Irv Smith a new weapon for Minnesota
Minnesota Vikings TE Irv Smith is a 'type of tight end' that the offense hasn't had in the past, according to general manager Rick Spielman.
Link to story

Panthers | Will Grier a long-term pick
Carolina Panthers QB Will Grier was not drafted to challenge Cam Newton, according to general manager Marty Hurney. 'This is about developing a young guy and improving depth at the most important position,' Hurney said.
Link to story

Seahawks | Doug Baldwin may not be able to play again
Seattle Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin (hernia, knee, shoulder) may not be able to play in the NFL again because of his multiple injuries, according to sources. It is believed that Baldwin wants to continue playing but may not be able.
Link to story
Doug Baldwin player page

Packers | Jace Sternberger won't have to do it all
Green Bay Packers TE Jace Sternberger won't be asked to the No. 1 tight end as a rookie, according to co-director of player personnel Jon-Eric Sullivan. 'His value is as a pass catcher today, but he is willing to block,' Sullivan said. 'I don't think there's pressure for him to come in here and be Superman.'
Link to story

Cardinals | Arizona trades Josh Rosen
Arizona Cardinals QB Josh Rosen was traded to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for the 62nd overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. The Dolphins also acquired a 2020 fifth-round draft choice in the trade.
Link to story
Josh Rosen player page

Browns | Jarvis Landry skips minicamp
Cleveland Browns WR Jarvis Landry did not participate in the voluntary minicamp this week, according to sources.
Link to story
Jarvis Landry player page

Raiders | Josh Jacobs considered a three-down back
Oakland Raiders RB Josh Jacobs can be a three-down back for the team, according to general manager Mike Mayock.
Link to story

Texans | Houston picks up option on Will Fuller
Houston Texans WR Will Fuller had his fifth-year team option for 2020 exercised Friday, April 26.
Link to story
Will Fuller V player page


Source: footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

about to be a long 4 months....

[mr. leisure]

Miami played Arizona like a fiddle .

[LT Profits]

A lot happens in three days at the draft, and not all of it has to do with the picks. You're forgiven for tuning out a bit once the first round marquee stories run their course in the sports mass consciousness. It's a beautiful jazzfest weekend down here in New Orleans and we all have lives to lead. I've run down the biggest fantasy-adjacent stories from the second and third days of the draft to catch you up:

So long, Tyreek: Tyreek Hill is not participating in team activities and after a damaging (to put it lightly) conversation between he and his fiancee surfaced, his criminal investigation was reopened and the Chiefs gave up a fifth-round pick so they could move up five picks for Georgia WR Mecole Hardman, a speed merchant who can play Hill’s role. Let’s hope things get a lot better for Hill’s child now that more details have become public, as the human story greatly eclipses the football one in importance.

Fantasy Football Losers: Patrick Mahomes II, Damien Williams, Carlos Hyde

Fantasy Football Winners: Mecole Hardman, Travis Kelce, Sammy Watkins, Demarcus Robinson

---

So about Todd Gurley’s knee: After insisting that Gurley wasn’t hurt last year and not making any big moves to indicate worry about Gurley long term, the Rams traded two third-round picks to move up in the third and get a running back from Memphis in Darrell Henderson who can take any touch to the house. Perhaps he’s a long-term insurance policy for Gurley’s knee, but he’s also a player who can contribute as a receiver and game-breaker as a change of pace. It’s a bad spot for immediate opportunity, but maybe an ideal spot for long-term upside.

Fantasy Football Losers: Todd Gurley, Malcolm Brown, John Kelly

Fantasy Football Winners: Darrell Henderson

---

The 49ers have a type, and not just at running back: After Matt Waldman called the 49ers running backs “minions” because of their similarity to each other, they added another wideout minion early in the second day with South Carolina wide receiver Deebo Samuel. He should jump to the front of the line for targets, but with Marquise Goodwin, Dante Pettis, and Richie James - all inside/outside receivers with different calling cards. They also drafted Baylor WR/RB/TE(?) Jalen Hurd in the third, who can be their best short yardage running back, their “big” receiver to balance out the speed/route running/yards after catches aces. San Francisco joins Chicago, Philadelphia, New England, and Indianapolis among others as teams that will have 8-10 players touch the ball each week, making fantasy football more difficult to project week-to-week and rewarding fantasy players who understand how to anticipate rational coaching’s approach to attacking a defense’s weaknesses with the personnel at their disposal.

Fantasy Football Winners: Jimmy Garoppolo, Deebo Samuel

Fantasy Football Losers: Marquise Goodwin, Dante Pettis, Richie James

---

Drew a Lock to the Broncos, just not in the first: The Broncos got a potential quarterback of the future and Joe Flacco got young competition much to his chagrin. Lock is athletic with a big arm and he’ll get the year to sit behind Flacco with less pressure to “put the first round pick in”. The Broncos also got Kansas State Dalton Risner, who will be molded by new offensive line coach Mike Munchak.

Fantasy Football Winners: Joe Flacco (for this year), Drew Lock, Courtland Sutton, Noah Fant

---

Will Rudolph the Red Zone Reindeer pull a different sled?: The Vikings select yet another tight end, this time Irv Smith Jr from Alabama. While tight ends can be slower to develop than other skill positions, Smith is a good two-way player and will overtake Kyle Rudolph sooner than later. There have been rumors floating around about Rudolph being traded to the Patriots, which could actually make him a fantasy winner when the dust settles. The Vikings offense will continue to skew more run-heavy, and Smith can help with that right away. The Vikings also took a nifty power runner and Matt Waldman favorite, Boise State’s Alexander Mattison, on the last pick of the second day to bolster their thin depth behind Dalvin Cook. SPARQ freak Mike Boonewill have competition and Ameer Abdullah might not make the roster now

Fantasy Football Winners: Dalvin Cook, Kirk Cousins

Too Early To Call: Kyle Rudolph

Fantasy Football Losers: Mike Boone, Ameer Abdullah

---

The Titans give Corey Davis a quality running mate: Adam Humphries is a good slot receiver. Taywan Taylor is a nice role player, Tajae Sharpe might not even be that. Marcus Mariota and Corey Davis needed some help, and it arrived in the second round via Ole Miss inside/outside receiver AJ Brown. Brown is going to help with his route running, toughness, and ability after the catch. Mariota might not be the quarterback to harness his savvy when plays are extended a la Juju Smith-Schuster, but it’s help nonetheless. It’s better for Mariota and Davis than it is Brown.

Fantasy Football Winners: Marcus Mariota, Corey Davis

Fantasy Football Losers: AJ Brown, Adam Humphries

---

The Eagles get their alpha running back: Miles Sanders isn’t Saquon Barkley, but he wouldn’t have been sitting behind many college backs other than Barkley. He’s very athletic and versatile and gives the team that loves to use 3-4 backs every game one that can be their lead back if they want to lean on someone. The Eagles didn’t take a back in the first, but they still took one early, as Sanders went in the mid-second. He’ll take carries away from Jordan Howard and snaps away from the entire group, while likely costing Josh Adams a roster spot (and maybe one of Corey Clement or Wendell Smallwood). While the multi-back approach is a ding for Sanders long-term outlook, the lack of top-end competition and quality of the offense and especially the line makes this a win for him. The Eagles continue to play the draft well by drafting for needs 2-3 years out instead of desperately plugging holes. The Eagles also took JJ Arcega-Whiteside, a huge receiver from Stanford. The second-round pick will mix in red zone looks, but might not have a chance to get as big a target share in this offense with a plethora of quality players. His draft stock still helps him in the second straight draft to see bigger wide receivers fall farther than expected.

Fantasy Football Winners: Miles Sanders

Fantasy Football Losers: Jordan Howard

---

The Saints make their move: New Orleans GM Mickey Loomis knows the clock is ticking on Drew Brees career and their Super Bowl window, so he acted accordingly, giving up next year’s 2nd to move up for Texas A&M center Erik McCoy. Stalwart starter Max Unger unexpectedly retired this offseason, leaving a gaping hole. McCoy was projected to be a first round pick and he’ll be an instant starter. The Saints also moved up early on the third day to get Florida DB Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, another first round pick on some boards who is smart, athletic, and can fit in almost any spot in the secondary

Fantasy Football Winners: Drew Brees, Alvin Kamara, Latavius Murray

---

The Colts add speed on offense: Ohio State wide receiver Parris Campbell was almost exclusively used near the line of scrimmage even though he has legitimate deep speed. His route running at the Combine built faith on his translation to a downfield role and the Colts pounced in the late second. He wasn’t a first-round pick as some projected, and the Colts have a lot of mouths to feed, but he’s still a strong slot option and he has a great quarterback and offensive braintrust around him

Fantasy Football Winners: Andrew Luck, Parris Campbell

Fantasy Football Losers: Devin Funchess (but he was underrated heading into the weekend)

---

The Dolphins get their quarterback of the future… for now: The Cardinals were in a bind and had only one semi-serious suitor left for 2018 first-round pick Josh Rosen. While waiting for more need to emerge via injury or having an open competition between Rosen and #1 overall pick Kyler Murray might have been viable options, the best and safest path was to avoid any locker room/team chemistry complications and move Rosen out to the highest bidder. They got a late second and fifth next year from the Dolphins (more on that later), while the Dolphins get a quarterback that could be their long-term solution, but for capital that means they can still take a quarterback early next year if Rosen doesn’t win the job from Ryan Fitzpatrick or have a strong stint once the season is lost. The rare win-win deal.

Fantasy Football Winners: Josh Rosen, Albert Wilson, Kenny Stills, DeVante Parker

Fantasy Football Losers: Ryan Fitzpatrick

---

The Cardinals create an arsenal: With the pick acquired from the Dolphins, the Cardinals took speedy wide receiver Andy Isabella from Massachusetts. Then with the first pick of the third day, they got size/speed/strength monster Hakeem Butler from Iowa State. Add in Christian Kirk, David Johnson, and Larry Fitzgerald and you have more questions than defenses can answer. The offensive line is still a big question mark, but you can’t pin your ears back and come after Kyler Murray and live to tell the tale with so much speed and prowess at wide receiver when the play breaks down. Butler fell farther than expected, but the landing spot is ideal. The team also added excellent route runner KeeSean Johnson from Fresno State in the sixth round. Be afraid defensive coordinators, be very afraid.

Fantasy Football Winners: Kyler Murray, Andy Isabella, Hakeem Butler, David Johnson

---

Hello DK, so long Doug?: The Seahawks revealed that Doug Baldwin might retire this offseason, so with the last pick of the second round, they welcome a wide receiver who couldn’t be much different than Baldwin in Ole Miss’s DK Metcalf. Metcalf is massive, ripped, and blazing fast, but his game doesn’t have much subtlety beyond those qualities, in part due to missed time with injuries. He does have great feet for a big receiver, and he should be a favorite for Russell Wilson when the play breaks down. He could start right away and be one of the biggest fantasy hits of the rookie class this year.

Fantasy Football Winners: Russell Wilson, DK Metcalf

Fantasy Football Losers: Doug Baldwin, David Moore

---

The Steelers use the top pick acquired for Antonio Brown to take a receiver: Diontae Johnson wasn’t a high third round pick on many draft analyst boards, but he was on the Steelers. Johnson has speed and quickness to spare. Miles Boykin and Hakeem Butler were big receivers with lots of physical gifts, but the Steelers went small. Johnson can play inside and outside and should also help the return game.

Fantasy Football Winners: Diontae Johnson

Fantasy Football Losers: James Washington, Ryan Switzer

---

The Bears and Bills get potential future starting running backs on the third day: After both teams were active at running back in free agency, the Bears and Bills spent what in this draft are among the top picks spent on backs. The Bears took David Montgomery from Iowa State and the Bills Devin Singletary from Florida Atlantic. Both are well-known for their ability to break tackles, and Montgomery is also excellent in the passing game. Mike Davis was signed to be the co-lead with Tarik Cohen, but Montgomery can push him for snaps and touches. Singletary isn’t as versatile as Montgomery, but with Frank Gore and LeSean McCoy both likely gone next year and TJ Yeldon only under contract through 2020, he could lead the backfield in touches next year.

Fantasy Football Winners: Devin Singletary, David Montgomery

Fantasy Football Losers: TJ Yeldon, Mike Davis

---

The Packers finally help out Aaron Rodgers on day two: After a first round that saw two defensive picks, the Packers got one of the best interior offensive linemen on the board in the second round in Mississippi State’s Elgton Jenkins, who can play guard or center, and then got a seam-ripper with a lot of upside at tight end from Texas A&M in Jace Sternberger. Both picks were excellent intersections of need and value

Fantasy Football Winners: Aaron Rodgers after all, Jace Sternberger

Fantasy Football Losers: Jimmy Graham

---

Washington gets some weapons for Dwayne Haskins: They got their quarterback, and they got him one of his own receivers when they took Terry McLaurin in the third. He has excellent route-running and speed to stretch the field. In the sixth, they got Kelvin Harmon from NC State, who isn’t that different from first round pick N’keal Harry other than a slow 40 that doesn’t match his tape and an overall less than impressive athletic profile. Josh Doctson isn’t cutting it, and Jordan Reed is on his last toe. In the fourth, they got a running back who can break long players as a runner and receiver who was discounted because he’s coming off of a torn ACL. Bryce Love can be Chris Thompson plus, as long as he fully recovers from his injury. This was a very cheap way to spruce things up for the incoming franchise quarterback.

Fantasy Football Winners: Dwayne Haskins, Terry McLaurin

Fantasy Football Losers: Chris Thompson, Josh Doctson

---

Leonard Fournette should be looking over his shoulder: Ryquell Armstead wasn’t a household name outside of deep draft analyst circles, but he’s a very capable inside runner and he has surprising speed. There’s an argument that the offense won’t lose that much if Fournette is out now that his backup isn’t Alfred Blue. The better Armstead looks this spring and summer, the shorter the leash for Fournette. It’s not a worst-case scenario for Fournette, which would have been an early round running back, but it’s a threat nonetheless.

---

The Bengals get two outstanding backs in the sixth round: Trayveon Williams was one of the best pass blocking backs in the draft and he has enough burst to keep defenses on their heels. Rodney Anderson is a power back with highly refined passing game skills who might have been an early round pick were it not for a 2018 torn ACL and a myriad of other injuries in his past. There’s not much opportunity here, but both names are worth monitoring to see if the Bengals got two steals at running back as some think they did.

Darwin Award: The Chiefs spent a sixth-round pick on a running back Matt Waldman loves. Utah State’s Darwin Thompson can hang with Damien Williams and we know this team isn’t afraid to promote new backs over incumbents when their performance and potential dictate it. Don’t knock Williams or Carlos Hyde down in redraft yet, but be ready to act fast if Thompson is wowing observers this summer.

---

More fantasy-worthy picks to mention:

• The Texans get yet another receiving tight end to develop in the third round, San Diego State’s Kahale Warring, good for Deshaun Watson, bad for the Jordans from last year’s draft Akins and Thomas
• The Patriots get a strong and solid all-around back in Damien Harris. The immediate opportunity might not be great, but the quality of the offense is outstanding, and enough to make him a late round pick in redraft leagues, and good second-round pick in dynasty rookie drafts
• The Ravens add Miles Boykin a size/athleticism prospect who was high on some draft analyst boards. He complements first-round Hollywood Brown perfectly and gives the Lamar Jackson a credible set of receivers to grow with.
• The Bills got a tight end in the third round with an athletic profile that says he’s in for bigger things. Remember the name Dawson Knox next year if this offensive line and offensive philosophy come together this year.
• The Ravens got a back who runs like he was shot out of a gun in the fourth round. Justice Hill is the perfect complement to Mark Ingram II for now, and perhaps leading their run-heavy offense in carries later.
• The Steelers took a hard-nosed no nonsense back in the fourth round who will be ready to produce if James Conner goes down. Benny Snell is probably the preferred handcuff to Conner, although I’ll hold out hope that Jaylen Samuels is used more in two-back sets and even as an H-back (but I won’t hold my breath)
• The Bears get another Georgia receiver in the fourth round. Riley Ridley was high on some draft analyst boards, but he had a poor combine. He’ll be at the bottom of the depth chart, likely below former teammate Javon Wims, but he can give them a real threat as their fifth receiver, and in an offense that likes to use everybody on game day.

Source: Joe Bryant - footballguys.com

[mpaschal34]

sad to know that one of the draft picks has already been shot.