A very good question, people.

I’ll be putting together a montage later this week regarding the 2012 NFL draft and possible fantasy implications, taking an in-depth look at players that have the chance of making an immediate impact as well as players that you’ll want to keep an eye on if you are in keeper or dynasty leagues.

With that in mind, and with the level of hoopla surrounding Robert Griffin III I felt it was time to weigh in with some analysis of the Washington Redskins #2 overall draft pick and new starting quarterback. There is no doubting his skills, speed and versatility. He has great downfield vision and throws a fantastic ball. Accolades aside, I am just not as convinced these traits alone will translate into success if you take a long look at his current situation. The first mistake many will make will be comparing Griffin to Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and expecting a similar season from the new Redskins signal caller.  Newton is a beast at 6’5” and 248 lbs – the body necessary to endure the beating that a quarterback who plays his style of football. As a result, he remained relatively injury free and scored 35 total touchdowns (21 passing and 14 rushing). Quite honestly, Newton surprised me with his arm skills, much better than I anticipated, but I digress. That certainly helped in his transition, without question.

Griffin is 6’2” and weighs in at 220 lbs. You have to wonder if he’ll be able to hold up to the hits that he’ll undoubtedly take at the NFL level. If you don’t think this kid will have the undivided attention of opposing defenders, think again. 

Also consider the offensive talent that surrounds Newton as opposed to the talent that is awaiting Griffin. There is no Steve Smith on the Redskins, not even close. Sure, I like Jabar Gaffney and he had a decent season, but look for his fantasy viability to take a decided downward spiral. Same can be said for Santana Moss.  Worse yet, news is Gaffney is on the verge of being released as I type this article. Yikes. Always unsettling to flip open your tool box and finding it disturbingly empty. They added WR Josh Morgan in free agency, but I find it difficult to get overly excited Morgan, a perennial underachiever.

Now let’s compare the backfields. The Panthers had quite a nice tandem of versatile options in RB’s DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. The Redskins?? Musical chairs of mediocrity. That should be a big area of concern. The tight end position is one that actually favors the Redskins, and if Fred Davis can flourish with the dreck they had previously at the QB position, it can’t get much worse with Griffin behind center. With that in mind, it will be in Griffin’s best interest to set up a nice rapport with Davis (and Chris Cooley if he’s healthy) early and often, starting in training camp.

Taking a look at the Redskins 2012 schedule, after week 4, look out. After starting the season on the road with a bounty-less New Orleans Saints and a trip to St. Louis to meet the Rams, week 5 starts a scary stretch of games that includes Minnesota, NY Giants (2x), Pittsburgh, Philadelphia (2x), Dallas (2x), and Baltimore. It is in no way forgiving and should be quite a test for the rookie to say the least.

As much as it seems, this is not a knock on Griffin. He is a talent, a stand-up guy, and I wish him nothing but success as be begins his NFL career, something I can only dream of as I sit here in front of my laptop. Sigh…. However, with the accolades and financial benefits comes criticism, and there will be plenty to go around.

Obviously if you are in a dynasty league, RGIII is a no-brainer. He has the upside to be a nice gem to place on your roster and cultivate. However in re-draft leagues you have to approach him much more deliberately. The risk/reward scenario leans heavily to the risk side of the spectrum, and if you are looking for Cam Newton production in year one, you will find yourself extremely disappointed, especially if you make a play for him prematurely. If you must, fortify yourself and then make the move. If one of your combatant’s jumps the gun - don’t fret, I have a suspicion you will be glad it wasn’t you.

Grab Kirk Cousins in one of the last rounds… And wait.

I’ll be back at you with some more insight and info!! Be sure to continually check in on the Free Agent posting, to see who landed where and what you can expect from them in their new digs!

Who is Where, and Should You Care??

Well, NFL Free Agency 2012 is in full swing and we all know the fantasy impact, positive or negative that a change of scenery can have. The list is long, and many of the names are incredibly familiar faces that could make things very interesting on draft day should they be donning a new jersey in the next few months.

I’ll take some time at each of the skill positions and weigh in on some of the interesting names that could make some fantasy headlines in the coming season due to free agency.

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Quarterbacks:

Alex Smith – All signs point to him returning to San Francisco in 2012, so unless they shock the world and obtain the services of the aforementioned Manning, I would expect the standard mediocrity despite Smith’s surprising play in the playoffs. With the Manning talk heating up, Smith made the wise move and paid the Miami Dolphins a visit, as his future in San Francisco is a tad cloudy at the moment. My opinion is Miami will deliver some of the same weather he enjoyed in San Francisco, but the talent pool is considerably less. Remember the old adage, jumping from the frying pan into the fire? UPDATE - Now that Manning is not a Niner, it will be interesting to see how they handle Smith now that he isimportant again. UPDATE – Smith signed a new deal to remain in San Francisco. A smart move really, with some solid receiver options brought on board, Smith could make a nice leap in production in 2012.

Matt Flynn – Here we have a situation very similar to that of Aaron Rodgers, when Brett Favre was at the helm in Green Bay. A very capable quarterback buried behind an outstanding first option. Flynn will get plenty of attention, and many rumors have him headed to the likes of Miami. If he lands in the right situation with decent weapons at his disposal, he could be a nice sleeper surprise in 2012. If he makes the wrong decision though and the talent is not there as it was in Green Bay, the going could be rough. The Packers have an embarrassment of riches at receiver that that makes a world of difference. UPDATE – Flynn signed this weekend with the Seattle Seahawks. All things considered, this might be a decent destination for Flynn. First is the fact that he will be playing. Also take into account a solid offensive line, running game, young receivers and a good defense, he might surprise some folks in 2012.

Peyton Manning– check out my other article devoted to his whirlwind free agency tour and the possible impact from a fantasy standpoint on manning himself, as well as the potential talent around him when he finally makes his decision. The Broncos, Titans and the 49ers are on his radar. UPDATE! Manning’s decision is made and he’ll be taking his show to the Mile High City. This my friends could be quite interesting for Manning as well as the skill position players around him. I will go into further detail in a special Manning Has Landed article to be released tomorrow morning.

Jason Campbell and David Garrard– you can more than expect both of these guy to find work in 2012, as both are expected t be 100% and ready to go. The destinations are plentiful, but as far as true fantasy impact, I wouldn’t hold out too much hope for anything more than a spot bye week starter. UPDATE – Campbell signed by the Bears – decent backup option for the Bears, but in fantasy, unless Jay Cutler gets injured, all in all no real impact. Looks like the destination we all expected Garrard to select last season has come to fruition this season, as he signs a one year deal with Miami.

Chad Henne – Unfortunately a broken arm derailed his season, and from the looks of things, his future in Miami as well. News has him being targeted by the Jets, as despite the contract extension for Mark Sanchez, one would have to think he’s on a short leash. Should be end up in New York, he would bear monitoring as he could get the nod sooner or later. UPDATE – got the nod from Jacksonville, and given the state of affairs, it should be his job to lose. He has a solid running game at his disposal, but until some help arrives at wide receiver, Henne is not overly enticing. Newly signed Laurent Robinson gives him a solid option for sure.

Tim Tebow– traded to New York Jets – To be honest, we all knew it was going to happen, but I am not sure what to think about this move. He certainly brings an attitude and an interesting dynamic to the Jets – much like Brad Smith, so it will be interesting to see how he is utilized by Rex Ryan. Depending on how short of a leash Mark Sanchez is on, this quarterback situation smells like a mess to me.

Running Backs

BenJarvus Green-Ellis – signed with Cincinnati – Basically showing FA Cedric Benson the door with this signing, Law Firm will take over the starting duties in the Bengals backfield. Given his on and off usage in New England, the fact that he’ll finally be given the time and consistency he deserves will be a welcome sight. Mixed in with a young offense finally finding its way I would expect a better than average season from Green-Ellis, worthy of #2 running back spot on your fantasy roster.

Michael Bush – signed with Chicago – I don’t doubt the talent of Michael Bush. He more than displayed his abilities in Oakland, filling in for an oft-injured Darren McFadden. I do however wonder how his arrival will affect one Matt Forte. Rumor has it he wasn’t over thrilled with the signing, feeling disrespected by the team. All told, his was a wise move on the part of the Bears. This could serve as incredible incentive for Forte, or just muddy things up from a fantasy perspective. That said, you draft Forte, make room for Bush, just as you likely did when you drafted Darren McFadden a season ago.

Peyton Hillis – Signed by Kansas City. The change of scenery may do him a world of good. He doesn’t have to be the man, and while that is a tad pathetic and makes for a confusing choice on draft day, Hillis could find his way back to fantasy relevancy if we keeps his head on straight and can avoid the injury bug. With Jamaal Charles still recovering from injury, the Chiefs could be leaning on Hillis sooner as opposed to later.

Mike Tolbert – signed by Carolina – A solid change of pace back that was a solid but inconsistent option joins an already crowded backfield in Carolina, with a young quarterback who also likes to take off with the ball. Not sure about this one.

Le’Ron McCain – signed by San Diego – Ok, so you aren’t grabbing him on draft day, but chances are you’ll be grabbing the guy running behind him. The fact that he will be trailblazing for Ryan Matthews is a good thing. It is definitely something to keep in the back of your mind, especially with vulture Mike Tolbert gone. It could be a banner season for Mathews.

Brandon Jacobs - signed by San Francisco - Jacobs makes the long trip from New York to the West Coast, joining fellow Giant turned 49er WR Mario Manningham. I would expect Jacobs to be a nice security blanket in the backfield for San Francisco. he is no spring chicken, but still a quality situational player. He could be leaned on more given the up and down injury history of starter Frank Gore. I definitely see handcuff on draft day, for sure.

Wide Receivers

Vincent Jackson – signed with Tampa Bay.  There is no doubting Jackson’s talent. He possesses combination of speed, size, power that drives defenses crazy. That said, this choice confuses and frustrates me. Tampa Bay? Josh Freeman? I can only hope the Buccaneers upgrade themselves after making this sold move at receiver, or they’ll have this Bentley in the driveway on cinder blocks.

Brandon Lloyd – signed with New England – Well after a brief cup of coffee in St. Louis, Lloyd has made the move to New England. A decided upgrade to WR Deion Branch and non-existent Chad Johnson, Lloyd should be a real nice addition to an already potent offense. With Wes Welker likely commanding big bucks, Lloyd is a quality guy to have just in case. Temper your enthusiasm though, as the tight ends rule the roost in New England. 

Desean Jackson – Resigned with Philadelphia - he was slapped with the franchise tag, and call me a skeptical Philadelphia Eagles fan, but I am not overly thrilled with the 5 year deal he signed, remaining with the Eagles. Yes, he is a game breaker, but in my opinion he tanked on the team last season from an attitude as well as a production standpoint, and now the Eagles are stuck with him. While he could crank it up to the pre-drama levels, I fear that he leans back and descends into mediocrity, cashing those paychecks. He is still a standout fantasy option, but I am an Eagles fan, so pardon the anger an d pessimism. We’re famous for it.

Marques Colston – resigned with New Orleans – a fine move, as he has been a standout performer for the Saints and all involved knew that. I think the wrong change of scenery would have been disastrous for Colston. Smart move overall. All they need to do now is make QB Drew Brees happy – that’s kind of important.

Reggie Wayne – resigned with Indianapolis. I guess if you are going to draft a quarterback with the #1 overall pick in the draft, it would be wise to have a few capable wide receivers around. Not sure what that means from a fantasy standpoint – draft him real late and see if some chemistry evolves.

Robert Meachem – signed with San Diego. I actually really like this signing. Meachem is a quality receiver who was stuck in an incredibly overcrowded situation in New Orleans. The move to San Diego gives him a real solid chance to become involved every week, and some quality options around him to accentuate his talent. I smell sleeper.

Mario Manningham – signed with San Francisco – If you consider Vernon Davis, Randy Moss, Michael Crabtree and now Manningham, you have to like this receiving corps just a bit. The emergence of WR Victor Cruz in New York left Manningham playing 3^rd fiddle, so his leap to the West coast is not surprising. If Smith can follow up 2011 with an improved 2012, and Randy Moss even a fraction of what he was, Manningham could have himself a solid season.

Pierre Garcon – signed with Washington – A nice but over-priced addition at wide receiver (shocker with Danny Snyder, I know) But the Redskins have to set the table with some decent talent at the receiver position as they prepare for the eventual arrival of QB Robert Griffin III via the draft. As far as fantasy impact, a definite bench option at this point, but with so many questions and uncertainty, I can’t recommend the Waiter any higher than that at this point.

Randy Moss – Signed with the San Francisco - Another signing a actually like. If Alex Smith can build on last season’s playoff performances, Moss gives him a nice downfield weapon to compliment TE Vernon Davis. I also strongly believe this slightly raises the value of WR Michael Crabtree, especially with Davis and Moss garnering the lion’s share of defender attention. Adding in Mario Manningham only strengthens this receiving corps. Dare I say that TE Vernon Davis is no longer the sole fantasy receiving option in San Francisco?

Laurent Robinson – signed with Jacksonville – Robinson did a few things this past season to his benefit. First was to stay healthy. The other was to not only fill in admirably for an injured Austin Miles, he played out of his mind and folks took notice. Jacksonville stepped in with the hopes that he can give them something that they have not had at the receiver position since WR Jimmy Smith retired. Expect QB Chad Henne to look his way often. The situation is distinctly different, so it will be interesting to see how Robinson develops away from Dallas.

Eddie Royal – Signed with the San Diego Chargers - I actually like this signing a lot. He leaves a Denver team that was trying to find its way at the quarterback position (of course that could change in an instant with Mr. Manning, but I digress) and joins a San Diego team with a more than capable signal caller in Phillip Rivers. Also take into account the fact that he’ll certainly see the ball early and often with the departure of WR Vincent Jackson, who jetted off to Tampa Bay. He still possesses solid speed, and if he gets it going I have a suspicion he could move his way up the depth chart, leaping over Malcom Floyd and Vincent Brown. Speculation of course, as Royal needs to also stay healthy, an issue for him as of late.  Royal could have himself a nice season and is worth consideration on draft day.

Chaz Schilens – signed with the New York Jets – He undoubtedly has talent, but unless the quarterback play in New York gets decidedly better, Schilens will be a beacon of fantasy mediocrity in 2012.

Donnie Avery – signed with Indianapolis – If he is healthy, Avery is worth keeping on your radar as a latter round draft pick or someone to monitor for a waiver wire gamble.

Josh Morgan - signed with Washington - Not exactly the premier downfield option you want if you draft a QB with the second overall pick in the draft, but maybe a change of scenery and a new energetic quarterback will help turn this beacon of mediocrity around. Don't strain yourself on draft day reaching for him.

Andre Caldwell – signed with Denver – I wouldn’t have given this signing too much attention, but the fact that he is talented, fell off the map due to sports hernia injury that landed him on the IR and that new QB in Denver, he’s worth keeping a close eye on.

Tight Ends

Martellus Bennett - signed with NY Giants. A solid option who has been lost in the shadow of Jason Witten in Dallas. Tight End Jake Ballard was serviceable, but the Giants needed an upgrade at the position and they did just that with Bennett in my opinion. While the TE position is a crap shoot after the top 4 to 6 players, Bennett could easily be a top 10 producer at the position in 2012.

Jacob Tamme– signed with Denver – We saw this coming from a mile away after the Manning signing. This move in my opinion will vault Tamme into 10 Ten status in regards to fantasy tight ends in 2012. Between Tamme and the fella listed just below, the Broncos really locked in some TE talent for their new signal caller.

Joel Dreessen – signed with Denver – another GREAT move on both the Denver Broncos and Dreessen. While showing some real flashes of talent in Houston while Owen Daniels was recovering from his knee injury, Dreessen makes the move west to Colorado. With Daniels back 100%, Dreessen’s impact is obviously lessened, something that won’t happen as he joins Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. With Dreessen and Tamme, the Broncos are quite a force at the position.

Kevin Boss – signed with  Kansas City – All and all, this is a pretty decent move by the Chiefs – Boss stands a really good chance at being as effective as he was in New York, and that was pretty decent. Not an upper tier TE, but definitely a serviceable option when you’re ready to make the move on draft day.

>John Carlson –signed with  Minnesota – He joins fellow Fighting Irish TE Kyle Rudolph, who honestly is the better TE and probably a better bet from a fantasy standpoint. I’d move along – if the Minnesota QB situation comes together, Rudolph will be the TE to have on your roster.

Daniel Fels – signed with New England… DOPE!! Why in the world would you sign with a team with already two standout tight ends in Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez? With Manning making the decision to play in Denver, Fels could have really surfaced. Now he’ll be a third option, if that.

Keep checking back, as these guys continue to sign on the dotted line, I will weigh in with the fantasy impact along with some general hilarity thrown in for good measure!

DONE DEAL!

 Well looks like the Manning roulette wheel has stopped in the Mile High City, and I would imagine John Elway, John Fox and the Denver faithful are tickled pink. Well, except one bowing kid, but... Ah, he'll be fine. After enduring season after season of uncertainty at the quarterback position, the Broncos won what seemed to be a three team race on Monday afternoon when Manning made his choice to don Denver Orange and Blue.

I guess when you think about it, it was fairly obvious. Colts, Broncos. Duh. Let’s hope that no one involved is a jackass in the equation. If 100% healthy, this certainly vaults Denver into serious contenders and you would have to think the Denver brass did their due diligence in clarifying Manning’s overall heath.

We all know the impact this signing has on a general football standpoint, but from a fantasy one, it’s really exciting. Manning’s existence alone, his talent, leadership and the bevy of intangibles that have made him what he is today, will only cause the fantasy viability of those around him to skyrocket.

First is Peyton Manning himself. Playing is always a plus in the realm of fantasy football. An awesome player back in the saddle and playing is in a word, marvelous. Not since John Elway have the Broncos had this type of skill and star power at the quarterback position, and it’s pretty exciting. Gone are the days of Brian Griese, Kyle Orton and (sorry folks) Tim Tebow. As Buddy Ryan proclaimed when the Philadelphia Eagles announced him as their new head coach in 1986, “Got a winner in town.”  And indeed they do.

The running game instantly becomes better with a credible quarterback who is respected and will actually THROW THE BALL. It is no secret manning doesn’t have happy feet in the pocket. He’ll throw the ball, but with an insane amount of accuracy. This in itself opens up things for the running game, specifically RB's Willis McGahee and Lance Ball. Take into account McGahee’s past injury woes, and Bell is instantly someone you want to consider on draft day when the time is right. Should McGahee succumb to injury as I certainly expect, Bell all of a sudden becomes a very important fantasy player with the opportunity to make a significant impact.

Quite honestly, if I am WR's Demaryius Thomas or Eric Decker, I am thrilled beyond words. The fact that both will now actually become a regular part of the offense, as opposed to a fluke has to be incredibly refreshing. Sure, we can all sit around, sing and hold hands about the nice rapport that Thomas had with Tim Tebow, but there will be no comparison with Manning at the helm. The lack of a solid option to deliver the ball most definitely held back both Denver starting receivers, and now you can look at Thomas and possibly Decker as solid fantasy wide receiver options.

Now, let’s take a second and look at a position that Manning definitely lock in on early and often. The blessed tight end. If I may… Daniel Fels – YOU’RE AN IDIOT. Seriously, are you kidding me? Fels made the move in free agency and signed with the New England Patriots. Hmmm… Tom Brady, TE friendly offense…. It's just two minor details named Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. We are not talking about a decent TE and a serviceable backup here... Already in place are two Pro Bowl caliber talents.. (shaking head).. I will readily admit, Fels was a non-factor in Denver, by basically no fault of his own. Granted hindsight is 20/20, but even if the Broncos didn’t land Peyton Manning, why in the world would you sign to be the third string TE regardless of destination?? Worse yet, given the list of tight ends that flourished playing with Manning (Dallas Clark, Jacob Tamme, Brody Eldridge), one can’t help but think what could have been had Fels been a little more patient…) I hope those benches are comfortable in New England, Daniel.

Nothing like those 5 tight end sets.

Realize that the Broncos could still be putting the pieces together, as former Indianapolis teammates RB Joseph Addai, and TE’s Dallas Clark and Jacob Tamme have yet to sign contracts, so one or more of these guys could be brought into the mix and could be valuable fantasy assets.  With TE Fels jetting off to Benchville, USA, and a nice crop of decent free agent receivers still available, look for a solid TE and WR to be brought in to accompany Denver’s new franchise centerpiece.  

Lastly, keep in mind this will be no secret on draft day. You’re newfound interest and excitement in Denver offensive players will surprise no one.  If healthy, the likes of McGahee, Thomas, Decker and (fill in the blank) at TE will be hotter commodities than usual. But be smart – yes the word is Manning is healthy. But understand that tossing the ball around with the assurance that you won’t be drilled by opposing defenders is MUCH more different once that assurance is left to his offensive line during the season. But that said, any player can be hurt at any time, so as is the case every season, draft deep, draft strong and be wise!

Get a jersey yet? You will.

 Well, after a short hiatus, I am back! Oh, don't worry, we have you covered in the off-season. There will be plenty to analyze, discuss, ponder and laugh about. Free-Agency, the NFL Draft, Trades - yep, we'll be busy.

Let's get to it with a little Peyton Manning conversation, shall we? You remember him, right?

It was like a Twilight Zone episode. The Indianapolis Colts with QB Peyton Manning. The Indianapolis Colts without Peyton Manning. (cue the music…..)

Talk about pulling the drain plug in the proverbial bathtub to an offense, a franchise and player production overall. Of course, the Colts will spin this as a positive, as their futility led them to a the #1 pick and a potential star in Stanford standout QB Andrew Luck. But let’s be honest, it’s a consolation prize that may work out, but also may not. Dare I say that the Colts would have rather ridden the wave with their franchise star quarterback as opposed to having their hand forced due to injury. Your inoperable Porsche was replaced by a Schwinn and (SHOCKER) you finished last in the race. Alert the media.

Peyton Manning’s impact was undeniable and is evidenced by the Colts disastrous 2011 campaign. That said, it is what it is, and now the fun begins!

Like a presidential candidate making that long and winding trip from state to state, the Peyton Manning parade could very likely be making a stop in your neck of the woods. I would be remiss if I didn’t think that there is some weighty fantasy impact with each greeting, handshake and facility tour. Interested parties will undoubtedly pull out their heavy hitters, ala Dan Marino for the Miami Dolphins, John Elway with the Denver Broncos and Neil Lomax with the Arizona Cardinals. Ok, so I was kidding with the last one, but you get the idea.

Regardless of who wins the Manning sweepstakes, there will be plenty of things to consider on draft day. First and foremost, please draft yourself a capable second Quarterback. While Manning should be healthy and at 100% coming into Week 1, remember his injury was extremely serious, and defenders aren’t going to come around the corner and yell “Trick or Treat!!” at him. They’ll be looking to plant him and plant him good. There is always a distinct possibility he’ll get re-injured or not be the Peyton Manning you remember. Make sure you have a solid contingency plan.

That said, Manning will take a lot into consideration during the decision making process. Expect him to find his way to a team with a better than average offensive line, especially from the blind side. Look for him to seek out either an indoor facility or a warm weather team. Of course this rules out my Philadelphia Eagles, but I just can’t see him enduring sub-freezing weather and snow squalls as he enters this latter stage of his career. He’ll look to a team with a solid foundation on offense, with key pieces at the running and receiving positions. Basically he’ll be seeking a team that he can instantly vault to the next level with his talent alone in his environment, under his terms.

Now, consider the impact Manning’s presence does to the talent around him. A decent running back with an average quarterback could very well become a standout out option, given the respect that now must be paid to the new signal caller that maybe wasn’t paid under the previous regime. For instance, I would think that Chris Wells would become that much more dangerous with Manning behind center as opposed to with Kevin Kolb. Of course that is assuming all involved could stay healthy, but consider the possibilities. Also, that opens the door significantly for another running back to emerge as a pass catching threat out of the backfield, say a LaRod Stephens-Howling, as Wells is not much of a receiver.

Now consider the impact that Manning’s arrival would have at the receiver position. I’ll stay in Arizona and mention one Larry Fitzgerald. I would have to think that Manning would instantaneously vault Fitzgerald to double-digit touchdown status again. In 2008 and 2009, with Kurt Warner at the helm, Fitzgerald reeled in 12 and 13 touchdowns respectively, only to see those totals drop to 14 combined over the past two seasons with the parade of mediocrity at QB that followed Warner’s retirement.

With this instant rapport and success with the team’s #1 receiving option, one would think that this would only lead to good things for the supporting cast at receiver as well. Consider how Early Doucet and Andre Roberts would benefit. If you consider the propensity and comfort level that Manning has with the tight end’s in his career, you could easily take a moderate TE and move in to the top 12 at the position. Sticking with the Arizona scenario, with Manning in the mix, I would have to give serious draft consideration to other-wise ignored commodities such as TE’s Jeff King and Todd Heap. When Dallas Clark went down, Manning brought prominence and fantasy respectability to some unknown kid by the name of Jacob Tamme, right?

Exactly.

Now, understand that much of this speculation could be altered should the likes of WR Reggie Wayne and TE Dallas Clark follow their ol’ pal Peyton like the Pied Piper. Since familiarity breeds contentment, it’s quite feasible. Wayne is no spring chicken, nor is Clark, but when you consider how they suffered in his absence and their fit with him on a new team in a new situation, it’s pretty exciting. Tell me that the thought of Peyton Manning in Arizona, throwing to the likes of Larry Fitzgerald and Reggie Wayne, along with Dallas Clark doesn’t create excitement? Come on.

Realize that some of these players will be more valuable in re-draft leagues, while others will find their attention is drawn in dynasty and keeper leagues. In re-draft leagues, if the chips fall a certain way, players such as Manning, Wayne and Clark could be coveted options. These are players in the twilight of their careers, but have the talent to make a huge difference in a one year scenario. While other younger players, who will see their values rise due to the veteran talent around them will be targeted in dynasty and some keeper league formats. Scenarios where you have the time for players to develop and flourish, such as WR’s  Andre Roberts, or Early Doucet. Much of this is a gamble, but the payoff could be fruitful and that quite honestly is the fun and the overall investment in their squads that Dynasty owners relish.

When you insert that type of talent and leadership into an offense and a team overall, good things are bound to happen. Mediocrity is restored to relevancy, and guys like Manning, Reggie Wayne, and quite possibly some lesser known secondary options are thrust into fantasy viability. That in itself adds a twist to your fantasy draft that could make your season if you are willing to take the risk.

I’ll revisit this soon when a destination is decided and the impact on everyone involved. In the spirit of things, I will stick my neck out and pass along some useful tidbits!

Couldn’t resist.

 Sadly, the 2011 Fantasy Football season has come to a close. BUT WAIT!! If you are a fantasy junkie like me, you know a group of guys, maybe guys in your regular season league who would be interested in keeping the fantasy fun alive with a Playoff Fantasy Challenge. Why not? Its football, fun, and you stand to make some more money. So just when you thought the fantasy chaos was over for another year, THINK AGAIN!!

 Incidentally, before ESPN and other outlets embraced this or even fantasy football in general, my group has been extending the fantasy fun into the playoffs. It’s funny to see how it has all evolved, as finally the major networks realized the passion and money (probably the most important part, no?) involved in the world of fantasy football.

Yes, I come from the days of manual scoring, tracking your player results through the box scores in the sports pages of the USA Today . There were no scrolling updates, websites, television shows, nothing. Just a newspaper, a draft sheet and a handy-dandy fantasy magazine that was sorely obsolete due to the fact it was printed in late May. Of course, that never stopped me from shelling out $7.99 for it at the drug store, but I digress.

Anyway, once the playoff teams are all set, it’s basically like any other fantasy football draft. You can use the same scoring, but you may have to go back to the dark ages and manually track your scoring on one of the various websites out there. There is no head to head, it’s a roto-type system, meaning the team with the most points at the end of the season is the victor. Regarding participants and rosters, ideally you’ll have 10 teams, and the roster breakdown can be similar to the regular season, with 2 quarterbacks, 4 running backs, 6 wide receivers, 2 tight ends, kickers and defensive/special team units.

After the main players are selected, remember that this is not a sprint. It’s a journey through the entire playoffs. In other words, you want players that will be sticking around for more than a game or two. Obviously you won’t forgo a top talent on a likely “one and done” team, but as you craft your roster, pick players that you know will have some playoff longevity. You want players that will supply a steady flow of points as opposed to players that may get out of the gate quickly and then fade to nothing as their respective teams are eliminated.

It makes for some very interesting decisions as you select your players. Sure, Tim Tebow makes for an interesting selection but if you look at the matchup, the Broncos are playing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round. It would be safe to say that Tebow’s playoff run will be more like a quick walk. Just like that, you lose one of your two quarterbacks in the first week.

Of course, this is just my take and opinion regarding strategy and setup, you may have your own. Either way, even though the regular season has ended, we can all still revel in some fantasy football hijinks and keep the fun going for a few more weeks.

Then folks, you can dive into all of FGD's top notch fantasy baseball madness!!

Enjoy!

Makes you want to do a flip - like this: