Word to the Winners: Fantasy Football Advice from the Experts

2007 Rookie Wide Receivers -- By Russ Bliss

2007’s NFL Draft class boasts a bumper crop of WR talent. In terms of immediate value, there should be one who provides immediate fantasy football help, with the potential to be one of the elite fantasy WR’s for the next decade. While normally you should temper your expectations with rookie WR’s, there are even several others who are worth taking in your standard re-draft style of leagues and can be counted on to produce at least serviceable fantasy football stats. Looking to the future, there are more than a dozen players from this group who could turn out to be solid fantasy football starters. When I look at potential value for dynasty leagues, I prefer to look more for, and bet on, players who have the special skills and measurables to be dominant more so than smaller, but more reliable guys who lack the size or speed usually needed to be exceptional fantasy producers. Remember, there is a difference between a good NFL player and a good fantasy football player. Guys who become NFL starters and have long careers but only get around 800 receiving yards and 3-6 TD’s each season are only bench guys in fantasy leagues. I’d much rather take a chance on a guy who could turn out to be great, but also stands a reasonable chance of becoming a bust, as opposed to drafting a guy who likely will never move from my bench except in cases of injuries or bye weeks. Those players are plentiful and available on the free agent wire in every league.

Note: Immediate fantasy football rankings and dynasty fantasy football league values are at the end of this article.

Rookie Rundown (in order drafted)

Calvin Johnson, Round 1, Detroit Lions: There is nothing not to like about Johnson. As I stated in my pre-draft WR article Johnson was the best player in this draft and has the makings of a dominant WR for years to come. To avoid being redundant, I’ll just quickly say that Johnson is tall, big, physically strong, shows great leaping ability, has great hands, strong work ethic, and a refreshing attitude. Johnson is the complete package at WR.
2007 outlook: It’s rare that a rookie WR makes a significant fantasy impact, but Johnson could very well do just that. He’ll have a top flight talent in Roy Williams opposite him, and it’s well known that Mike Martz’s offenses can provide plenty of players who finish high in the fantasy football rankings. While I stop short of saying Johnson is a definite 1,100+ yards 9+ TD guy, it won’t surprise me.
Beyond 2007: Only injuries could prevent Johnson from being a superstar in both the NFL and fantasy football leagues for the next decade.

Ted Ginn, Round 1, Miami Dolphins: Ginn has speed, speed, and more speed. It’s his greatest asset. Ginn can stretch opposing defenses with his speed and is a dangerous as a return man on special teams. The knocks on Ginn are that he isn’t very tall or strong and doesn’t like to take a hit. He also needs to polish up his route running. However, Ginn is a game breaker and threat every time he has the ball in his hands.
2007 outlook: Will challenge Marty Booker for the starting spot opposite Chris Chambers in Miami. At worst, Ginn should be the Dolphins #3 WR and primary return man giving him increased value in fantasy football leagues where kick and punt return yardage and TD’s for individual players count. In standard leagues though, Ginn likely is a #4 fantasy WR at best as there are concerns about the Dolphins QB situation.
Beyond 2007: Should take over as a starter in Miami, but whether Ginn has the makings of a true #1 WR in the NFL is debatable. But the skills are there for him to be a big play threat and a solid fantasy #2.

Dwayne Bowe, Round 1, Kansas City Chiefs: A natural athlete, Bowe uses his size to dominate and get position on smaller DB’s. While lacking elite speed, Bowe is strong and is fearless laying out for the ball. A willing downfield blocker, Bowe needs to polish his game and work on his route running, but he has a lot of upside and is very coachable.
2007 outlook: Likely to start right away in Kansas City. The Chiefs have aging veteran Eddie Kennison and underachieving Samie Parker in front of Bowe, but he’s more talented than either and it will only take time before he develops. The biggest drawback to Bowe’s immediate impact will be that the Chiefs are more of a pound it out offense with RB Larry Johnson, have one of the top TE’s in the game in Tony Gonzalez, and there are question marks at the QB position. Probably not a guy who will be a #2 fantasy WR, but definitely worth considering as a borderline #3/4 for fantasy purposes.
Beyond 2007: Unlike some, I think Bowe has enough speed to be a #1 WR in the NFL. He definitely has the size and has shown continued improvement in his game. It may take another year or two, but Bowe should develop into the Chiefs #1 WR and his size means he’ll definitely be a favorite target in the red zone. In terms of fantasy football predictions, Bowe has the makings of a good #2 fantasy WR in a couple of years.

Robert Meachem, Round 1, New Orleans Saints: Meachem emerged as Tennessee’s go-to WR in his first full year of being a starter in college. Possessing great size and speed, Meachem can stretch defenses and make acrobatic catches. His weakness is that despite his size, he is tentative when he knows he’s going to get hit. But overall, Meachem is a playmaker with great hands and a high upside for the pros.
2007 outlook: Will compete with Terrence Copper to be the Saints #3 WR behind starters Marques Colston and Devery Henderson. Injuries to Joe Horn in 2006 make it difficult to gauge just how often the Saints utilize their 3rd WR under Head Coach Sean Payton’s offense, but suffice to say most team’s #3 WR don’t translate into fantasy football starters. Add in that it’s a rookie, and you have to temper the enthusiasm for Meachem’s upside in 2007. Probably Meachem checks in as a #4/5 fantasy WR at best.
Beyond 2007: Here’s where Meachem’s upside has the chance to shine. The Saints have good young WR’s in both Colston and Henderson, but in terms of pure talent, Meachem trumps both of them and likely will make one of them (probably Henderson) expendable. Meachem has the upside to be a #1 WR in the NFL and his long term fantasy football projections could place him as a strong #1.

Craig Davis, Round 1, San Diego Chargers: At 6’1”, Davis has good height and is very fast. Thinner than you’d like in a tall WR, Davis could struggle against physical DB’s who make big hits. He exhibits good athleticism and while his college numbers don’t blow you away, it does bear noting that he was the #2 at LSU behind Dwayne Bowe.
2007 outlook: Will battle with Malcom Floyd for the #3 WR spot behind projected starters Eric Parker and Vincent Jackson. Davis possesses more pure speed than any WR the Chargers have and that should give him the inside track. Coupled with his excellent height and athleticism, he would probably be first in line for a starting job if either Parker or Jackson gets injured. Since the Chargers have LT and Antonio Gates, plus two other WR’s firmly in front of him, it’s hard to really see Davis lighting it up as a rookie and he likely doesn’t merit consideration beyond being a #5 fantasy WR.
Beyond 2007: The Chargers need a big play threat like Davis in their starting lineup and it should only take a year or two before he gets there. Bigger and faster than Parker, Davis should supplant him by 2009 at the latest, if not sooner. If Davis can add some more muscle to his frame, he could turn out to be a great NFL and fantasy WR.

Anthony Gonzalez, Round 1, Indianapolis Colts: Not as big as you’d like in a future starting WR in the NFL, Gonzalez surprises by being fearless catching the ball over the middle or in traffic. He has deceptive speed and despite his only having started one season in college, runs excellent routes. Very smart and eager to improve, Gonzalez has a workman’s attitude. While not likely to ever be a #1 WR, he could develop into a solid #2 in the right offense.
2007 outlook: Did I say “right offense”? Enter the Indianapolis Colts. While Gonzalez doesn’t possess the prototypical size you’d like, he’s actually about the same size as All-Pro WR Marvin Harrison. Gonzalez should step into 2007 as the Colts #3 WR behind Harrison and Reggie Wayne. Between his natural skills and strong work ethic, Gonzalez could provide Peyton Manning with a new weapon to unleash on opponents. Consider Gonzalez as a weak fantasy #3 or strong #4 fantasy WR with the upside to be much better than that.
Beyond 2007: Harrison will be 35 this year and while he is still a top WR in the league, his skills will begin to diminish soon. Gonzalez is going to be groomed as Harrison’s heir apparent and like I stated about Gonzalez in my fantasy football blog after the first day of the draft, watch out for Gonzalez in a couple of years. It’s not always about the best skilled player in fantasy football, and Gonzalez’s skills are solid, but it’s also about the QB throwing the ball and the offensive system.

Sidney Rice, Round 2, Minnesota Vikings: Tall and thin (6’3”, 197 lbs), Rice has been a playmaker each of the last 2 seasons in college, catching 70 passes or more, over 1,000 yards, and 10 or more TD’s in each. Rice shows the natural ability to track and catch passes and will win most jump ball situations because of his height and leaping ability. The main knocks on Rice are that he is a bit immature, gets frustrated when he isn’t involved in the offense, and because of his lack of strength may be a durability risk.
2007 outlook: The Vikings WR situation is muddled with mediocrity. The listed starters currently are former 1st round pick Troy Williamson (who has been a disappointment) and (yawn) Billy McMullen. There’s also Bobby Wade, a 5th round pick this year (Aundrae Allison), and a host of other’s who merit little notation. So there is an excellent opportunity for Rice to step in and make an immediate contribution. A big question mark is the development of second year QB Tarvaris Jackson (who looked truly unready to play last season). That could impact Rice (and every Vikings WR) greatly as Jackson really needs to show a lot more than he did last year. Most likely, Rice is like all the Vikings WR’s: a big risk as anything more than a #4/5 fantasy WR at best.
Beyond 2007: I seriously doubt McMullen is a long term starter for Minnesota and Williamson needs to prove he can bring his game up to the NFL level. This means Rice has a great chance to develop into a decent NFL and fantasy WR, but I doubt it translates into him ever being a big time force worthy of a high ranking in fantasy football drafts. I just don’t see an elite quality about him.

Dwayne Jarrett, Round 2, Carolina Panthers: Jarrett is a Keyshawn Johnson clone. 6’4”, 219 lbs, great hands, lacks speed, went to USC, etc. That lack of speed prevents him getting separation on opposing DB’s, but his height helps him win jump balls, and with his strong hands, he rarely loses when fighting for the ball in traffic. Also, because of his size, Jarrett isn’t afraid to go over the middle or take a hit. Some were afraid of Jarrett being like former Trojan Mike Williams because of his size and lack of speed, but Jarrett showed that unlike Williams, he could drop the weight and get down below 220 lbs.
2007 outlook: It was expected that Jarrett would learn from Keyshawn Johnson in Carolina, but the Panthers released Keyshawn and now there is an opening opposite Steve Smith. Jarrett will battle with another former Trojan (Keary Colbert) and Drew Carter for that starting job. Colbert has been disappointing since having a great rookie season, and Carter is basically a tall, but not physical, version of Steve Smith. Jarrett offers strength that neither Colbert nor Carter possesses, and that could give him an edge. Most likely though it won’t matter much who the #2 in Carolina is as the 3rd and 4th WR are just as likely to put up similar numbers. Unfortunately, that translates into not great. The biggest edge Jarrett has is that his size and strength make him a natural red zone target (41 TD’s in 3 college seasons). His yards won’t be great, but he likely catches as many TD’s as both Carter and Colbert combined.
Beyond 2007: The lack of speed is what prevents Jarrett from likely ever becoming a true #1 WR in the NFL. But considering he has Steve Smith opposite him, he could thrive as the big possession style WR who catches close to double digit TD’s for years to come.

Steve Smith, Round 2, New York Giants: No, this isn’t the Steve Smith mentioned above. This Smith was a teammate of Dwayne Jarrett’s at USC, and actually had 1 more reception and more yards receiving than Jarrett (although fewer TD’s). Smith is only 5’11”, 195 lbs, and his college production is indicative of what his upside is when partnered with a big, physically imposing WR opposite him. Smith has good game and skills. He runs good routes, has solid hands, is a willing blocker, shows adequate playing speed, but he’s just not special in any area. And that means he is likely to never amount to more than a complimentary WR.
2007 outlook: Will compete with the Giants second round pick from the 2006 draft Sinorice Moss as the #3 WR behind starters Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer. Despite not being big himself, Smith is bigger than Moss and is more suited to play often and contribute right away. The fantasy value though is limited as a 3rd WR in a Tom Coughlin offense. Only if the aging Toomer (who is coming off a 2006 season ending partially torn ACL injury) suffers another injury will Smith have a chance to put up any type of fantasy worthy numbers in 2007. If Toomer suffers any set backs in his recovery and isn’t ready for the start of season, Smith could though find himself on a lot of fantasy football cheat sheets as a sleeper.
Beyond 2007: Smith will take over for Toomer; it’s just a matter of time. Burress provides that big WR opposite him and due to his smart route running and good hands, he could end up being a solid complimentary NFL WR who has some value as a #2/3 fantasy WR in performance style leagues.

Jacoby Jones, Round 3, Houston Texans: A 4 year starter at Lane College in Tennessee, Jones is the quintessential small school product who could turn out to be a great NFL player. Jones is a bit raw, but has great size and athleticism. While not a burner, Jones has enough speed to succeed at the NFL level and has a good work ethic. The negatives on Jones (besides his small school experience) are he has small hands which lead to him body catching too many passes, and a need to work on his route running. Jones probably needs a couple of years to transition his game to the NFL level.
2007 outlook: Likely to be the Texans 3rd or 4th WR. But considering that after Andre Johnson there are no clear cut dominant candidates for the #2, Jones is in a golden opportunity to step in and surprise right away ala Marques Colston in New Orleans last year. But it would take a lot of dedication and hard work on his part to have a chance for that to happen. The likeliest scenario is that just like for the past few seasons, there are few reasons to count on a Texans WR providing any fantasy football help in 2007.
Beyond 2007: No doubting that Jones was drafted with an eye to the future in Houston. He has everything he needs to succeed given time. Jones could actually turn out to be a pretty good fantasy #1 WR, but safer to say he develops into a fantasy #2 in 2 or 3 years.

Laurent Robinson, Round 3, Atlanta Falcons: More athletic than given credit for, Robinson has good height and hands. Quick to read defenses and find open spots, Robinson makes plays. However, he isn’t a strong WR who wins battles in traffic, doesn’t play as fast as his timed speed and is a marginal blocker.
2007 outlook: The setback suffered by Brian Finneran in his rehab of a torn ACL suffered in 2006 leaves an opening at the 4th WR spot in Atlanta. Robinson will step into that spot and compete for playing time with underachieving Michael Jenkins and Roddy White. However, the ruling hasn’t been handed down that those two guys underachieve because of their lack of skills (doubtful) or because of the poor QB play they’ve endured during their tenures. Despite optimism surrounding Bobby Petrino’s spread offensive attack scheme’s, I think Robinson merits little consideration in 2007 fantasy football drafts.
Beyond 2007: IF it’s ever discovered that the problem is really with Jenkins or White instead of the QB, Robinson has a shot to be a starter in Atlanta in a couple of years. But that’s a pretty big if. Unless Petrino’s offense turns out to be better than I imagine it becoming, I don’t see Robinson being much of a fantasy factor at all.

Jason Hill, Round 3, San Francisco 49ers: A productive college WR, Hill displayed toughness playing thru minor injuries in 2006. Has adequate size and speed, but is not special in either department. Hill has a fearless attitude and will go after the pass in traffic. Is also experienced as a special teams gunner.
2007 outlook: Hill should be one of the 5 WR’s to make the 49ers final roster, but whether he is the 3rd, 4th, or 5th WR is up in the air. The addition of Darrell Jackson in San Francisco likely costs the other WR’s on the roster a lot of their catches. Besides Hill there is the ever injured Arnaz Battle, the speedy but lazy egomaniac Ashley Lelie, the overachieving yet talent-limited Bryan Gilmore, and the oft-hyped yet never performing Taylor Jacobs. Given this crew of question marks Hill could be a pleasant surprise. But don’t bet the house on it.
Beyond 2007: The players in front of Hill either have injury histories (Jackson and Battle) or questionable work ethics (Lelie). How things shake out in a year or two is hard to predict, but one sure thing is that Hill has a legitimate chance to be a starter in time. However, I doubt he’ll ever be more than a complimentary NFL WR and a fantasy #3/4 at best.

James Jones, Round 3, Green Bay Packers: A decent sized WR, Jones doesn’t possess the speed to separate himself from DB’s or run away from them after the catch. Despite this though he is strong and can break away from arm tackles. While he will fight for the pass in traffic, he sometimes forgets to secure the ball before running after the catch. Shows good field awareness and is smart working his way thru defenses. Jones also has punt return experience.
2007 outlook: Will battle for a roster spot in a crowded Green Bay WR corps. Given the Packers spent a 3rd round pick on him, the injury concerns about Greg Jennings and Robert Ferguson, and the lack of talent of others fighting for the last 2 WR spots, and it’s a safe bet Jones makes it as one of the 5 WR’s on the active roster. While that doesn’t guarantee him being fantasy worthy, the injury concerns with Jennings and Ferguson could mean Jones gets some time opposite Donald Driver. For immediate fantasy football rankings though, Jones isn’t likely to be on them.
Beyond 2007: Jones shows the desire to both improve his play and do anything his team asks of him. That should help him stay on the roster, and may even get him a starting spot eventually, but I don’t see it translating into anything more than a borderline fantasy player.

Mike Walker, Round 3, Jacksonville Jaguars: At nearly 6’2”, 208 lbs, Walker has the desirable size of an NFL WR. While he clocked in with a sub 4.4 40 at the combine, he hasn’t play to that speed on the field, and comes with risk as he suffered a serious knee injury in 2005. Good at reading defenses, Walker is a good athlete who catches most everything thrown his way. Despite his size though, he could stand to get a little bigger. Is disinterested as a blocker.
2007 outlook: Will compete for the 5th and final WR spot in Jacksonville. He should win it, but there is little reason to think he’ll make any immediate noise in fantasy circles.
Beyond 2007: It’s not like any of the current Jacksonville WR’s have produced consistently or stayed healthy, so there is a chance for Walker to have a role in the future and maybe even succeed. Reggie Williams has been a disappointment and could be gone soon. Matt Jones has #1 WR ability, but needs to stay healthy. Ernest Wilford isn’t special and hasn’t stood out despite chances to be a starter. Dennis Northcutt certainly isn’t in the long term plans. It could well be that Walker is a real fantasy football sleeper in dynasty leagues.

Paul Williams, Round 3, Tennessee Titans: As an athlete, Williams is outstanding. He has natural physical talent, is very fast, and has enough size to compete. Unfortunately, he doesn’t always compete. Williams doesn’t like catching the ball in traffic and despite being able to make acrobatic catches, will drop easy one’s. Doesn’t run crisp routes and takes plays off when he knows he isn’t getting the ball. Needless to say, his blocking effort is minimal and usually unproductive. Talent and athleticism got him drafted this high, but the production will have to be coached out of him.
2007 outlook: It seems like no team has selected more WR’s in the last 3 NFL drafts than Tennessee. There is a plethora of injury prone mediocrity on the Titans at WR and that gives Williams a chance. If he applies himself, he could be starting. Conversely his attitude could land him in the doghouse and he rarely sees the field. If for no other reason than his natural talent he should be on the Titans active roster in 2007.
Beyond 2007: If he were on a team with solid proven WR’s, Williams wouldn’t stand much chance. But in Tennessee, he’s a real wild card as Williams has more talent than any other WR the Titans currently have. I get the feeling if he can have some success early in his career, it’ll lead to a confidence that could get him a starting job and provide Vince Young with a big play weapon that provides fantasy football help to owners. However, there is a big downside to Williams and he could never live up to optimistic expectations. Boom or bust type of player with little middle ground.

Johnnie Lee Higgins, Round 3, Oakland Raiders: Higgins has explosive speed and a fearless attitude going after the ball. Standing only 5’11”, 184 lbs, he doesn’t possess the size desired in a starter in the NFL, but could be an effective slot WR where he doesn’t get jammed at the line of scrimmage. Higgins is also an excellent return man experienced in both punt and kickoff returns.
2007 outlook: Will compete for a roster spot in a crowded Raider’s WR corps. His best chance immediately is to win the returns job as this would secure his place on the active roster for game days and give him a chance to be a weapon in the offense. His role though is likely to be small to start off.
Beyond 2007: Not likely to ever be a starter, but could excel as a 3rd WR if the cards fall right. His best value will be in fantasy football leagues where return yards are included the scoring system. Otherwise it’s hard to imagine him ever being more than a fantasy #4 WR.

Ryne Robinson, Round 4, Carolina Panthers: While very productive in college, Robinson is way too small (5’8”, 179 lbs) to ever be a starter in the NFL. Robinson isn’t a speed burner, but he is quick and has the potential to be a slot WR. He also brings solid punt return capabilities and has experience returning kickoffs.
2007 outlook: Will compete with several others for the 5th WR spot on the Panthers. The Panthers were mediocre in their returns in 2006 so if he can win the return duties derby, he should make it. But as a WR his impact will be nil.
Beyond 2007: I don’t see him ever being more than maybe a #3 WR and considering the Panthers already have a smaller speed guy starting in Steve Smith, they’re more likely to go with a size guy in the slot. Robinson’s best hope is either to eventually move on to another team. Otherwise his value will only be from his return yards.

Chris Davis, Round 4, Tennessee Titans: Short and slight (5’10”, 180 lbs), Davis doesn’t have the measurables you’d like at the WR position. What he does have though is great natural instincts for the position and solid hands. Despite being smaller, Davis isn’t a burner though and his production comes more from his disciplined route running and willingness to fight for the ball and take a hit. Is experienced at punt returns, but doesn’t flash playmaking potential in that area.
2007 outlook: The second of three WR’s drafted by Tennessee; Davis will fight for a roster spot with several other players. At best, his tenacity and work ethic gets him on the field as a 3rd WR. More likely though that he gets buried on the depth chart assuming he makes the team as their punt return man in place of the suspended Adam Jones. His fantasy value is sorely limited as a WR though as he doesn’t have the size to be a red zone threat or the speed to be a vertical, big-play threat.
Beyond 2007: It’ll be a battle for Davis to make it as anything other than a slot WR who potentially makes important NFL catches that don’t translate into meaningful fantasy football projections.

Steve Breaston, Round 5, Arizona Cardinals: Adequate height (almost 6’1”) but very lean (178 lbs), Breaston exhibits good hands and field awareness. However, he isn’t particularly fast or strong and didn’t really turn into the WR in college he was projected to become. Has good return capabilities and is experienced in both punt and kickoff returns.
2007 outlook: Will battle for the 5th WR spot in Arizona. His value as a WR is minimal though as it’s his potential for return duties that will dictate if he makes the roster.
Beyond 2007: A good competitor, Breaston doesn’t have any special skills that will translate into him being anything more than a mediocre NFL WR. Like with the 3 guys drafted before him, his best value likely comes in fantasy leagues where return yards are part of the scoring system.

Aundrae Allison, Round 5, Minnesota Vikings: Hit or miss type of player. Hit: can be a dominant playmaker when he wants to be despite not possessing great size. Miss: Lazy and disinterested when not getting the ball and doesn’t always go after contested passes. Allison will show a glimpse of his special natural abilities at times, but he needs coaching to get the selfish attitude out of him. Allison also has some limited experience returning punts.
2007 outlook: His fall in the draft to round 5 should provide a wake up call to Allison to get his attitude straightened out. If he does, he should make the Vikings as their 4th or 5th WR. He may even compete for punt return duties, but he didn’t display a lot of skill in that area when called upon to do so. If he doesn’t apply himself, he won’t make the final cuts.
Beyond 2007: It’s really all up to Allison himself. He could turn out to be a steal in round 5 and become a starter in the NFL and provide fantasy football help as a #2 fantasy WR in a few years. Or he could become another very talented but under-motivated washout who never gets it.

David Clowney, Round 5, Green Bay Packers: A track sprinter who doesn’t get caught from behind, Clowney has good hands and playmaking ability. Not very big though (little over 6’0”, 184 lbs) and isn’t physically strong. Despite lack of strength Clowney is a competitor who just needs to get into the weight room and get stronger so he doesn’t get pushed around by physical DB’s.
2007 outlook: Barring injuries to the projected “safe” players for a roster spot as part of the Packers WR corps, Clowney will realistically battle with 3rd round pick James Jones and veteran Ruvell Martin for one of the two remaining active roster spots. Chances of fantasy value though are low.
Beyond 2007: It’s no sure thing, after all, we are talking round 5 here, but I like Clowney’s potential in the future if he commits himself to getting stronger. He should be able to bulk up to close to 200 lbs without sacrificing any speed. If he does, he could be a real fantasy football sleeper in a couple of years.

Roy Hall, Round 5, Indianapolis Colts: A big WR listed at 6’3”, 238 lbs, Hall didn’t start much in college as he was behind both Ted Ginn and Anthony Gonzalez in college, and Santonio Holmes before them. Hall has great timed speed (ran a 4.38 40 in his pro day workout) and is very strong getting off the line. While his timed speed is great, it’s more of a built up speed than it is a sudden quickness. Wasn’t overly productive in college. Considering his size and speed, there has to be a reason he never stepped up and became a starter, and that raises a red flag.
2007 outlook: Easily the biggest WR in Indianapolis, Hall has a chance to become their 5th WR. Could be a red zone threat, but the Colts have proven they don’t need a big WR to be effective throwing the ball at the goal line. There’s also a chance that because of his size, he gets converted to a H-Back type of position as the Colts don’t use a traditional FB. His speed in that area would make him an attractive fantasy football sleeper as a free agent pickup who may be able to give a desperate team some hope. There’s also a chance that we learn the reason he never stepped up in college is that he simply is a better physical specimen than a football player and he doesn’t make the active roster.
Beyond 2007: Very hard player to peg. Hall doesn’t fit the profile of what the Colts like in their WR’s. But his size and speed make him an intriguing prospect for the future at WR or to be a starter at H-Back. And that’s really where I see him finally sticking, if he sticks at all. But all that would mean for fantasy purposes is that Hall becomes someone you consider only the deepest of fantasy football drafts. He’s worth a late round flyer in dynasty leagues.

Legedu Naanee, Round 5, San Diego Chargers: A converted QB, Naanee offers great size (6’2”, 225 lbs) and decent speed. Can make receptions in a crowd and isn’t afraid of taking a hit. Naanee has played both WR and H-Back the last two seasons. Conversion from QB means he is still learning the position and needs refinement on his routes and technique. Offers a lot of upside as he develops his skills.
2007 outlook: His size fits the bill for what the Chargers traditionally look for in a WR. Will battle for the 5th WR spot in San Diego. Unless there is a rash of injuries, his immediate fantasy value is nil.
Beyond 2007: May need a year on the practice squad as he continues to learn the nuances of the position. But he could turn out to be someone worth keeping your eye on down the road. The Chargers have invested in similar sized WR’s in recent years and have yet to see a big return on the investment so there’s a chance Naanee surprises.

Joel Filani, Round 6, Tennessee Titans: A big, strong WR, Filani was very productive in a WR friendly system in college. Not a fast WR though and isn’t a downfield threat. Also tends to body catch passes instead of plucking them with his hands. Has good upside as a possession WR in the NFL.
2007 outlook: The third WR drafted by Tennessee in 2007, Filani faces an uphill battle to make the active roster. There are so many young WR’s on the Titans right now and it’s anyone’s best guess which one’s will make be there when the dust settles. On the plus side, the Titans can’t be enamored with some they’ve taken in previous drafts as they drafted 3 again in 2007. Not much fantasy value though.
Beyond 2007: At best Filani develops into a possession style #2 WR for the Titans. But that’s hardly a sure thing and it’s a better bet Filani never develops into someone who graces fantasy football rankings in future years.

Courtney Taylor, Round 6, Seattle Seahawks: Good sized WR with surprising strength and field awareness. Unfortunately Taylor does not have good speed and despite being a hard worker, does not display consistent hands. A good athlete who gives solid effort, Taylor is the type of guy you pull for to make it in the NFL, but are also surprised if he does.
2007 outlook: The Seahawks must feel a need for better depth at the WR position as they drafted two in round 6. With the top 4 spots locked in (barring injury) for Seattle, Taylor will compete for the 5th WR spot. Little fantasy value even if he wins it.
Beyond 2007: Taylor would really need to shine to make it even in a few years in Seattle as the team has some other good young WR’s already. At best Taylor turns into a possession style WR, but he won’t make any impact in future fantasy football projections even then.

Jordan Kent, Round 6, Seattle Seahawks: A tremendous athlete and three sport star in college (track and basketball being the other two), Kent offers great height, speed, and the potential to get stronger both physically and in his skills as a WR. Is very raw though and will need a lot of coaching to translate his natural athleticism into an NFL WR. But the potential for him to be a steal in the draft in a few years is definitely there.
2007 outlook: The second WR the Seahawks drafted in round 6, Kent will battle with Courtney Taylor and others for that 5th WR spot. Kent is probably the best athlete with the highest ceiling of any of those fighting for that spot. It won’t mean any fantasy value though.
Beyond 2007: If Kent takes to coaching and dedicates himself to learning the position the upside for him in the future is extremely high. Seattle may have some good young WR’s right now, but Kent is well worth a late round flyer in dynasty leagues and definitely a guy to keep track of in re-draft leagues.

Dallas Baker, Round 7, Pittsburgh Steelers: Tall WR with long arms and big, strong hands. Runs good routes and has great leaping ability but is not elusive after the catch and only has marginal speed. Projects as a red zone target and possession type WR in the NFL.
2007 outlook: Will compete for a roster spot in Pittsburgh. There is some talent there so it will not be easy for him to make the team. But you can’t teach what he’s got physically so he stands a chance. Probably won’t make any impact right away though.
Beyond 2007: Could develop into a natural possession #2 WR opposite a speedy playmaker. Lack of speed hurts him though and he might not have a future in the league either. Hit or miss fantasy prospect whose best chance is as a red zone threat.

John Broussard, Round 7, Jacksonville Jaguars: With decent, but not great size, Broussard’s best attribute is speed. He has the jets to fly and can be a playmaker down the field. Unfortunately, he doesn’t like to go over the middle, runs sloppy routes when he isn’t getting the ball, and lacks the bulk to defeat the jam at the line of scrimmage. Is experienced at returning kickoffs.
2007 outlook: Will have a hard time making the Jaguars final roster as there are harder working WR’s in front of him. Will have to excel at kickoff returns for him to make the team.
Beyond 2007: Really needs to work at taking his game up a notch to have a future in the NFL. My crystal ball says he’ll have little to no fantasy value ever in his career.

Chandler Williams, Round 7, Minnesota Vikings: Small and speedy, Williams plays bigger than his 5’11”, 184 lbs. He has good open field moves and has been successful returning both kickoffs and punts in college. Lacks the strength to defeat jams at the line and while willing to take a hit, he doesn’t win many battles for the ball in traffic.
2007 outlook: It will be a long shot for him to make the Vikings final roster. While there aren’t a plethora of talented WR’s to compete with, there are two rookies selected higher than him and a slew of veterans with more experience. His only chance is to shine at returning kicks. Otherwise, he won’t make the team.
Beyond 2007: Will never turn into an NFL starter, let alone a fantasy option unless you get his return yards.

Chansi Stuckey, Round 7, New York Jets: Barely 5’10”, 193 lbs, Stuckey is a playmaker because of his superior speed and good route running. Doesn’t show toughness over the middle though and won’t beat out physical DB’s for contested passes. Showed toughness and desire by missing only 3 games in 2006 after suffering a broken bone in his foot. Is experienced as a punt returner.
2007 outlook: While not a threat for a starting job with the Jets, Stuckey is slightly bigger and potentially as capable a return specialist as current Jets WR Tim Dwight. Considering Dwight has a problem staying healthy, Stuckey may make the team as a 4th or 5th WR and take over punt returns.
Beyond 2007: Probably never develops into more than a slot WR in the NFL, but his return capabilities could help him have a decent career. For fantasy purposes though, it’s a long shot Stuckey ever finds himself on a fantasy football cheat sheet.

Derek Stanley, Round 7, St. Louis Rams: A track sprinter with great speed, Stanley is too small (5’9”, 172 lbs) to ever be more than a slot WR in the NFL. He lacks the strength to beat the press and goes down too easily after the first hit. Stanley is still learning the position as he played his first season as a DB, then split time in his second season at DB, RB, and WR. Has solid kickoff return skills and overall has a similar game to current Rams (and former Chiefs) WR Dante Hall.
2007 outlook: The Rams have too many other talented, and speedy WR’s for Stanley to even hope to crack into one of the top 4 spots. If he is to make the team, he’ll have to compete to become the top return man. If he doesn’t win that battle, he won’t be there by September.
Beyond 2007: If he continues to develop his WR skills and can show off his speed returning kicks, Stanley has a chance to carve out a similar career to Hall’s. If he doesn’t, he’ll just be another guy who dominated at Division III in college but couldn’t take the step up in competition in the NFL.

Jonathan Holland, Round 7, Oakland Raiders: Another track star with adequate size and great speed, Holland lacks strength and shows inconsistent hands, preferring to catch the ball with his body more often than not. Has good return skills and also shows skill as a special teams gunner. Has more built up speed than a burst of acceleration.
2007 outlook: A bit of a head scratcher the Raiders took him as they got a similar WR with superior talent and return capabilities back in round 3 with Johnnie Lee Higgins. Oakland is crowded at WR and I don’t see Higgins having a place on the roster.
Beyond 2007: While you never know, it’s pretty hard to see Higgins ever turning out to be a viable NFL WR, let alone a name that you’ll read on your fantasy football player rankings.

2007 Impact Ranking:	Dynasty Values:
1) Calvin Johnson	1) Calvin Johnson
2) Dwayne Bowe	2) Dwayne Bowe
3) Ted Ginn	3) Anthony Gonzalez
4) Anthony Gonzalez	4) Robert Meachem
5) Robert Meachem	5) Dwayne Jarrett
6) Dwayne Jarrett	6) Ted Ginn
7) Craig Davis	7) Craig Davis
8) Steve Smith	8) Jacoby Jones
9) Sidney Rice	9) Sidney Rice
10) Jacoby Jones	10) Paul Williams
11) Paul Williams	11) Jordan Kent
12) Jason Hill	12) David Clowney
13) James Jones	13) Steve Smith
14) David Clowney	14) Jason Hill
15) Chris Davis	15) Mike Walker
16) Aundrae Allison	16) Aundrae Allison
17) Mike Walker	17) James Jones
18) Johnnie Lee Higgins	18) Joel Filani
19) Laurent Robinson	19) Laurent Robinson
20) Chansi Stuckey	20) Roy Hall
21) Legedu Naanee	21) Legedu Naanee
22) Joel Filani	22) Johnnie Lee Higgins
23) Roy Hall	23) Chris Davis
24) Dallas Baker	24) Chansi Stuckey
25) Ryne Robinson	25) Dallas Baker
26) Courtney Taylor	26) Courtney Taylor
27) Jordan Kent	27) Steve Breaston
28) Steve Breaston	28) Ryne Robinson
29) John Broussard	29) John Broussard
30) Derek Stanley	30) Derek Stanley
31) Chandler Williams	31) Chandler Williams
32) Jonathan Holland	32) Jonathan Holland

 

See more rookie predictions below:

• Fantasy Football Running Back Advice
• Fantasy Football Quarterback Advice
• Fantasy Football Tight End Advice
• Fantasy Football Kicker Advice
  

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