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“Fleener, along with returning receivers Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead, were the three most-targeted players by Brees in the three-day mandatory rookie minicamp that concluded Thursday.”
You might be questioning why Coby Fleener is headlining a stock report. Other than it being a relative slow news day, Fleener is getting the “official” JimboSlice seal of approval. The ex-Stanford tight end showed flashes of potential in Indianapolis with his former QB Andrew Luck, but it seemed that he always took a backseat to Dwayne “Pain Train” Allen. Now Fleener is entering one of the NFL’s most dynamic aerial assaults with Drew Brees at the helm. A season after making old Father Time Ben Watson a very valuable fantasy tight end, fantasy owners should be licking their chops to get at Fleener, especially after seeing what a former Saints’ tight end named Jimmy Graham was capable of. Fleener was tied with Willie Snead (another guy I really like) and Brandin Cooks for targets over a 3 day mini camp session, and was only one reception behind Snead for the lead. I think Fleener could have big potential in this new offense. I also realize I just name dropped so much that it brought a tear to Michael Wilbon’s eye.
“C.J. Anderson is at the top of the heap. He earned it late last season, and spent the last four weeks consolidating his role as the No. 1 running back. In terms of presence, leadership and offseason work ethic, he has led by example and assumed a greater role on the team — which goes with the four-year contract he received.”
–Andrew Mason, denverbroncos.com
This news is more confirmation after the carousel that was the Denver Broncos running back group last season. As an owner of both Anderson and Hillman, nothing was more infuriating than trying to determine which was going to shoulder the load that given week. This year it appears owners will no longer have to worry. Anderson’s extension, paired with Hillman still trying to solidify his role as the primary backup should leave owners comfortable selecting Anderson knowing he will get the bulk of the carries.
“ESPN 49ers reporter Michael Wagaman foresees “plenty of playing time” for Shaun Draughn in San Francisco’s passing-back role.”
Last year Shaun Draughn had a big impact in the fantasy realm when Carlos Hyde went down with an injury. The thought of increased playing time along with pass catching abilities makes Draughn an intriguing late round option aside from being able to say his name with a southern drawl. Seeing as the 49ers will most likely be playing a majority of their games from behind, Draughn may find himself on the field more than expected. He’s another Hyde injury away from having some serious late round RB value.
Not strictly fantasy:
- Arian Foster plans to be ready for training camp coming off an Achilles injury
- The Jets projected 53 man roster includes 4 (yes, 4) quarterbacks assuming they resign Ryan Fitzpatrick. Joined by Geno Smith, Bryce Petty and Christian Hackenberg. Jets gonna Jets I guess.
- Ryan Tannehill is reportedly still struggling with his accuracy this offseason. As an RSJ favorite for a breakout season, we’ll continue to monitor Tannehill’s progress.
