Fantasy Football 2014: Impact Rookies From Day 2 Of The NFL Draft
By J.P. Scott
Nov 29, 2013; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies running back Bishop Sankey (25) rushes against the Washington State Cougars during the second half at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Rounds two and three of the NFL Draft were arguably more exciting than round one in terms of household-name skill players finding permanent NFL homes. We finally saw some running backs go off the board as well as a couple of tight ends who will see considerable playing time.
I’ve highlighted five players taken on Day 2 who will have both immediate and long-term fantasy impact.
Paul Richardson, Wide Receiver, Seattle Seahawks — Richardson is one of the fastest players in the draft and gives the Seahawks a deep-threat at receiver to compliment the utility knife that is Percy Harvin. I expect Richardson to fill the void left by Golden Tate’s departure immediately. He’ll have more value in dynasty leagues than he will in traditional leagues this season, but he’s still worth a late round pick as a flex option.
Davante Adams, Wide Receiver, Green Bay Packers — Most scouts had Adams as a top ten receiver in this year’s class and I’d have to agree. He comes into a great situation in Green Bay where Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson are the only two receivers returning in Green Bay who saw regular playing time. I expect Adams to fill the No. 3 role left by the departure of James Jones. On any other team, that might not be a big deal. In Green Bay, however, that could easily mean a 1,000-yard season. Follow Adams’ situation closely throughout the summer. If he locks up the No. 3 spot, he’s a top-notch flex option and maybe even a low end No. 2 depending on the size of your league.
Bishop Sankey, Running Back, Tennessee Titans — I love Sankey’s potential in Tennessee, where he will compete for and likely win the starting job. I see a lot of Doug Martin in his game and has a chance to approach the same numbers that Martin did in his rookie campaign. If he is the starter, he’s worth picking as your No. 2 RB. In dynasty leagues, you’ll want to grab him early.
C.J. Fiedorowicz, Tight End, Houston Texans — Bill O’Brien loves tight ends in his offenses. He showed that at both Penn State and New England. Fiedorowicz gives him a big-bodied target with great route running ability and elite hands. He’ll be on the field often with fellow Houston tight end Garrett Graham. For 2014, Fiedorowicz is a low-end No. 2 option at tight end. For dynasty leagues, however, he’s worth picking a little earlier and stashing away as a future starter.
Terrence West, Running Back, Cleveland Browns — Most pundits had Carlos Hyde going to Cleveland and taking the starting job. Hyde wasn’t available, so Cleveland waited and grabbed West, who many compare to Hyde. I actually like West better. I like West’s lower body strength and balance much more than Hyde’s. West reminds me of a larger version of Zac Stacy and could very well eclipse Stacy’s rookie numbers. If he starts — and I think he will — he has high-level RB2 potential in 2014.