By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @BetOnTheGame)

The Super Bowl is a near week away, after a wild championship weekend we continue to push ahead in the season. With that said, we look ahead to the NFL’s last game of the year. One final hooray for fans, the game between a legend and a new rising star. Brady vs Mahomes.

This could go down as one of the last times we ever see Brady and could mark the journey of a new chapter for the Chiefs. The markings of a potential dynasty forged from speedy receivers, and bruising tight ends could invoke the next chapter in NFL history.

With the stage set the NFL’s next chapter is the rookies coming up. The 2021 class enters a weird stage where COVID-19 shocked the world. The NFL has been forced to cancel all camps, workouts, and draft settings. With that said it’s uber important to make sure you do your research.

With college production and tape being all we will see on these upcoming newbies it’s important you read and research. Let’s dive in and get cracking on five rookies to target from the NFL draft in 2021.

Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

The rookie running back number 1, an unquestioned game changer. The spotlight of success on a loaded Alabama team. With the senior bowl right around the corner, coach Brian Flores of the Miami Dolphins has scheduled to coach Harris.

The skillset of the rookie runner will be on full display for a chance to prove to NFL teams just how special the young back truly is. His elite hands, massive running legs, untackelable frame, and lightning quick feet will be on display for NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers to drool over.

Harris’s days at Alabama showed just how much a force he is. His run in the college playoffs versus Notre Dame was a thing of beauty. Take a look at just how special he is.

Harris is a thing of beauty. The way he runs through holes with quick decisiveness is surreal. I can’t say enough good things about this kid and how he runs. With several teams in the NFL including the Dolphins, needing a running back, Harris could land in a spot where he will excell from day one.

In just about any spot I can see Harris being a force from day one. His fantasy production will rival likely now second year runner Jonathan Taylor of the Colts. With his pass catching ability and nasty running style he should fit right into an offense like Miami’s.

Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

Drafting for value is a major asset in fantasy. That’s what Williams presents, likely a low end second round pick is what Williams will be slotted in at for dynasty rookie draft. It makes for the perfect value play on what seems to be the third best runner in the nation behind only Najee Harris of Alabama and Travis Etienne of Clemson.

Williams is a haul slotting in at (5’10”, 220 pounds), just an absolute massive bowling ball type human being. For someone with that size and frame he has tremendous hands. In his final season at North Carolina the young back caught 305 yards. Very subtle but impressive and something to note.

Look at the catch and run by the big fella. The most impressive part about the play that scouts will love is when the pocket breaks down and the coverage is sealed, Williams has the smarts to run to the open field and make a play for his scrambling quarterback. Scouts look for stuff like that which should make Williams fly up the draft board.

But touching back on the size and strength of Williams is what really catches your eye. His ability to hit holes and burst through is one of the main strengths he possesses but it’s not even his best quality. What is however is the ability to shed tackles and never go down off first contact. Take a look at this run that shows the power and speed of Williams.

Williams is an absolute nightmare in the open field. Defenders deem him untackleable and his stride and ability to catch make him near unguardable. Williams depending on the landing spot is one of my highest rated prospects to target in dynasty leagues this offseason.

Kyle Pitts, TE, Florida

The number one tight end in the nation and potentially may even be the best pound for pound pure receiver. At Florida, Pitts was a nightmare for defenders. Sticking linebackers on a tight end is a recipe for disaster. Look at what the Patriots did for years revolutionizing the game with combo tight end sets. They started a whole trend and may end up bringing it back with rumors of Pitts heading to New England. But that’s just rumors. Pitt’s can fit anywhere, in any system, on any team.

Pitts shows the ability to catch the ball against any position on the field, wether it’s being smothered by a corner or bracketed in coverage. He is a nightmare matchup for anyone on the field having to cover him. Since 2014, Pitts leads all of college football in most contested catches by a tight end with 25. His pass-catching abilities are extremely rare for some of his size.

The rookie is a dynamic playmaker and a true elite game-changing tight end. He is someone NFL defensive coordinators will have to game plan for. Given his size, speed, athleticism, and rookie profile he is a no-brainer middle of the first-rounder type of prospect for dynasty leagues.

With tight end being so slim and only really 5-6 being game changing type prospects for fantasy this guy could give you the leg up on your competition. Especially if you select him a super flex or tight end premium type format.

Rondale Moore, WR, Purdue

One of the most elite level gifted prospects in all of college football, Moore is a nightmare in the open field and to defend. With all the athleticism and elite measurable’s Moore is still one of the biggest wild cards. In his college career, Moore played three seasons but over the past two seasons only logged in seven games to injury. A major concern that could have him sliding down draft boards.

I’m not concerned about him slipping much. The spot won’t affect much for him in my mind. There’s really almost nothing this elite level prospect can’t do. He’s provided run after catch, special teams plays, rushing usage out of the backfield, and vertical receiving over the middle of the field. When healthy, Moore is a multi-purpose weapon who can break open a football game with any touch of the football. Take a look at the clip.

Moore possesses all the tools to be an elite caliber receiver in the league. His athletic profile and use remind me a lot of someone like a hybrid between Leviska Shenault and Tyreek Hill. He is a true Swiss army knife type of player that from day one should be effective in an offense. Moore is one of my favorite receivers in all of college football is rapidly climbing up my board.

Rashod Bateman, WR, Minnesota

I’m trying my hardest to give you guys that hold a bit of value and won’t be top-5 picks. It’s hard, with no camps, combines, and little film it becomes difficult to spot guys that you believe will be fantasy stars in the making. This is what I believe Bateman is, but not for long. His profile and draft stock seems to be exploding recently all over Twitter.

For good reasons is the star receiver out of Minnesota blowing up. The young star stands at a modest build of 6’1″, 210 pounds. Nothing out of the ordinary but very solid measurable. What he does with his size is beat defenders in coverage with ease and is one of college football’s best route runners. Eerily similar to Michael Thomas of the Saints.

A fantastic catch by the young guy, but what you can see in the clip is Bateman’s clear nose for the ball. One of the things scouts talk about most for Bateman is his pure willingness to track down balls and his feel and timing for when the ball is coming. The kid has a knack for knowing exactly where the ball is and it’s something that just can’t be taught.

With such quick feet and ability to burst and run routes he may be a starter from day one depending on the landing spot. A team like the Patriots may be in the mix for some like Bateman. His value in fantasy draft is rising and with good reasons.

The post Fantasy Football: 5 2021 Rookies to Target appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @betonthegame)

With dynasty leagues comes a lot of different things. Stress is the main thing. Selling, buying, waivers, draft picks, offseason moves, there is so much that goes on throughout the offseason. Things change in an instant in life and in dynasty. Your reactions to the news and how you use it to your advantage is what makes you a better player.

But dynasty leagues aren’t all bad. In fact, they are a lot of fun. Buying and selling is half the fun, rebuilding is the most fun. An acquiring an orphan dynasty team and making them into a championship contender is my bread and butter. It’s what I consider to be the most fun thing about dynasty.

This past few weeks I’ve been acquiring up several teams destroyed and left for dead by several owners in dynasty formats. It’s sad, but rebuilding is my job and it’s a passion. This is where I get the inspiration and the ideas to write these articles. now let’s dive in and find out some options for us to sell high on in dynasty while we still can. Remember the goal is to get optimal value for the player now while it’s at it’s highest.

Brandin Cooks, WR, Houston Texans

Anything Texans right now is super hard to hold on to. From running back to tight end to wide receiver. With the news of Deshaun Watson wanting out things are scary. The rumors over the past week have been flying. We’ve heard potential landing spot after potential landing spot. But it’s all but imminent that he’s as good as gone.

If Watson is in fact traded this will sink the value of any player on the offenses, especially Cooks. But that isn’t just the only reason I want to sell. It’s the production. This season Cooks had 119 targets, 81 receptions, 150 yards, and six touchdowns. Those are tremendous stats, don’t get me wrong. But you don’t buy past production and honestly, if you break down where the points came from you can see the production is super misleading. Let’s take a look.

During the first four weeks of the season, Cooks had only one fantasy relevant game. It came in Week 2 in which he scored 14.5 fantasy points. He also had a game where he dropped zero, while the other two games were sub-five points. That’s awful to begin with.

He did however produce in weeks 5-9 but it’s what he did in Weeks 10-15 that concern me. He didn’t score more than 13.5 points in any of those games and scored zero in week 14 as well. Concerning to say the least.

If you really break down the production a lot of his production came in Weeks 16 and 17 where likely no fantasy championships teams played or had Cooks. In the final two games he a combined 26 targets, 18 catches, 307 yards, and three touchdowns. A massive chunk of his production to say the least.

The production can be broken down and show that he clearly wasn’t great. I also don’t like Cooks due to the Watson rumors, but to make things worse the injury history is the scariest sight. Almost every season, Cooks is guaranteed to miss a minimum of two games. His concussion history is super concerning as he has had at least five recorded concussions and could be another big hit away from retirement.

At age 27 with all the factors around him and Will Fuller coming back likely im trading Cooks while I can. The situation can’t ever get better than it was last season so his value can only go down from here.

Raheem Mostert, RB, San Francisco 49ers

It’s no secret how much Kyle Shanahan the head coach of the 49ers loves running the football. As much as that’s exciting for Mostert he loves running it with multiple backs. That’s the concern for Mostert.

Last season, the 49ers ran with a rotation of backs lead by Mostert. Guys like JaMycal Hasty, Tevin Coleman, Jeff Wilson, and others had logged carries and even showed prowess. Not a good sign for Mostert to start with. The main back I’m concerned about competition with Mostert is Jeff Wilson. At times during the year, he showed real promise.

Mostert is a 29-year-old back with injury issues squaring off against what looks to be a young explosive 25-year-old back in Wilson. As shown above, Wilson in spot starts and limited work had four games of 20+ fantasy points even with competition. All that while Mostert played eight games last season and had only two games of double-digit fantasy points and only one was over 20.

Things get worse for Mostert as well, in eight games last season the 49ers were very clear he isn’t the goal-line back. He had just 11 carries while Wilson had 25 in 12 games. It’s clear that the 49ers may be moving to Wilson as there future.

If things weren’t already bad enough it may be worse. The QB situation is in potential shambles and the 49ers may even bring in another and potentially more competition in the running back room. Jimmy Garappolo remains the starter for now but missed a huge chunk of 2020 with injuries.

With the quarterback play in question the offense may be in shambles next season causing the run game to be the focus of the defense. With the competition and the concerns around the roster things aren’t bright for a 29-year-old running back who is battling injuries. I’m trading Mostert who likely has 2-3 years left in the league.

David Johnson, RB, Houston Texans

A lot of the same rules that applied to Brandin Cooks above apply to Johnson here. Watson is a pillar of success for just about anyone in the offense. In fact, he’s so good that he allowed a guy like Carlos Hyde who is ancient and frankly not great to rush for 1000 yards in 2019. Amazing.

If Watson is to leave you have to sell Johnson. A lot of people may list him as a potential buy-low after that successful three-game stretch to end the season. In the final few weeks, Johnson recorded 21+ fantasy points in each game. Take a look at the stat lines.

• 11 receptions, 106 yards, 1 touchdown, 23.3 fantasy points
• 12 carries, 128 yards, 1 touchdown, 28.9 fantasy points
• 14 carries, 84 yards, 1 touchdown, 21.0 fantasy points

As you can see at the end of the season he found some stride in his game not only running but receiving the football. But that’s with plus matchups, Watson in the offense, and Will Fuller being gone. Factor all that out and he’s just a low-end RB2 if you’re lucky.

But the injuries are a huge concern as well. Johnson has been fragile in his career. This year he missed four games due to injury and has only played 16 games just once in the past four seasons. I’m all aboard selling high based on name and end of season production. Get rid of Johnson now before we get Watson being traded news.

T.Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts

This is a wait and see type trade. Recently, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford and the organization have agreed to part ways. With that in the news it’s raised questions on a landing spot, that’s where the Colts come in. Their quarterback just retired and they are now left wondering what’s next. Insert Matthew Stafford.

I always talk about the value being in the unknown. This is where Hilton and Stafford come into play. Let’s live in fantasy land for a moment and say Stafford does head to Indy to pair with Hilton. That’s an ideal scenario and a true win-win for both sides. That’s where your value comes in.

Hilton automatically in the mind of fantasy owners becomes a no doubt top-20 option and arguably pushes potential WR1 numbers for fantasy teams. If that’s the case the stock rises and you can sell for much more then he is worth at the moment. That’s why we hold… for now.

But you may be saying “why are you selling a guy who will potentially be a WR1?” Well, I don’t think that will happen. And honestly, I’m a huge fan of the other Colts wide receiver options. My heart beats at the idea of Michael Pittman Jr. being paired with Stafford. Not to mention third year pro Parris Campbell remains in the mix.

In my mind, Hilton is the WR3 on that offense behind the two young guns. That makes him a sell with the unknown that floats around him. If Stafford is to get traded here I am selling Hilton to anyone for what I can get. Right now his value is around a third-rounder but I don’t believe it’s out of the question that midseason you could fetch a high-end second-rounder if Stafford heads to Indy.

Chris Carson, RB, Seattle Seahawks

Last but certainly not least is Chris Carson. One of the most clear sells in dynasty on the list. And honestly, I think just about everyone is trying to sell him. In the two dynasty leagues that I am in his name is being thrown around left and right. Nobody seems to want him.

And that makes a ton of sense why. Oft-injured, Carson once again couldn’t complete the 2020 season on a high note. The 26-year-old runner once again missed four games on the season while battling nagging injuries. In fact, the explosive runner is almost due to miss a game or two each season. He has never played 16 games in a season and over his first four years in the league, he has missed a total of 16 games. Not great for a guy entering free agency.

With the injuries mounting and impending free agency on the horizon the Seahawks would be smart to make a move for a replacement. Wether its the draft or free agency, I don’t know. But I do expect for them to make strides in effort to replace Carson.

The Seahawks do have a young back in DeeJay Dallas who looked very solid at times in his first season. The young only saw one game of 10+ carries but made the most of the opportunity. During that start, Dallas looked solid racking up 60+ yards from scrimmage along with a few catches and paired that with two touchdowns. With him entering his second year and looking to improve we could see major strides this offseason which means bad things for Carson.

There are a ton of reasons to not love Carson from his injury to the likely competition. I’m selling him with the name value as of right now.

The post 5 Flex Dynasty Players to Sell appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @BetOnTheGame)

The dynasty content is flowing out for everyone this week. People all over twitter, Facebook, websites, and just about every social media platform are pumping out content. It’s just that time of year.

The NFL season is coming to a close as it enters it’s second to last week of the season. The championship round for each perspective conference is here and will come in go this weekend. Along with championship games comes dynasty values.

Players like Devin Singletary, Mecole Hardman, and many others will be in the spotlight of dynasty owners. If they crash and burn it’ll produce value for other managers to make a trade. If they light the world on fire it’ll open up a trade window or even give you hope for a brighter 2021 season.

Regardless of the outcome it’s one of the most important times in dynasty. With the season coming to a close, rookies declaring, and free agency coming up things could shift dramatically. It’s important to not make silly mistakes and trade away guys or trade for players that could be in a bad spot for 2021.

Let’s dive into this piece and round out five flex players that you should be targeting this offense to trade for in 2021.

Ronald Jones, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

An absolute homerun for 2021, I can promise you that. With Leonard Fournette impending free agency looming after the playoffs, the buccaneers active running backs will consist of Jones, Ke’Shawn Vaughn and that’s it. That only means one thing, it’s Ronald Jones season all 2021 fellas!

That should excite many, Jones just in the playoffs has impressed. Even with his injured legs he still runs hard, quick, fast, and just plain electric in the open field. Take a look at the injured Jones in his first playoff game this season versus the Saints just last week.

The young runner had a fantastic breakout season in 2020. He saw 192 carries and converted that into 1,143 yards, 28 receptions, and eight total touchdowns. Hell of a season for a guy who just one season ago had only 172 carries for less than 750 yards. The improvement in Jones’s game was abundantly clear from year two to year three. The third-year runner also played only 14 games in 2020, factoring in the yards per carry metrics, it’s clear he would’ve racked up over 1000 yards on the season rushing.

I’m loving Jones for 2021, everything is setting up for him to explode. Fournette being off the roster opens up a huge chunk of workload. In 2020, Fournette handled the rock 133 times for 600 total yards and six touchdowns. That chunk of volume added to Jones’s volume in 2020 was good enough to volt him into RB1 territory for fantasy purposes.

With Fournette out the door, Jones likely logging 16 games, and the offense remaining intact with Brady, Evans, Brown, Miller, and the rest of the crew, it’s setting up for a prime 2021 for Jones. His offseason ADP is currently sitting around the 6th round, way to low for what’s in store. I’m grabbing a bunch of shares of Jones for dynasty leagues this season.

John Brown, WR, Buffalo Bills

One of arguably my favorite buy-low candidates in fantasy, especially in dynasty. Entering his age 31 season in 2021, Brown will be slept on after an injury-riddled in 2020. The veteran speedster missed seven games due to injury throughout the season. Even in an injury-riddled year, Brown managed to rack up a modest stat line of 33 receptions, 458 yards, and three touchdowns.

The numbers aren’t uber impressive but what lyes deep below that is the fantasy points per game numbers. In just six fully healthy games Brown finished with an average of 15.6 points per game across that span. That’s with one of the games having only scored eight fantasy points. That was also the only game in that stretch in which he recorded less than 13.2 fantasy points. Absolutely outstanding numbers in such a small sample size.

It’s also clear that Brown still has “it”. Even with the injuries and the age he still isn’t missing a step in his game. The speed hasn’t tailed off a bit. In fact in the playoffs so far he looked fantastic. He made big plays last game versus the Ravens. He racked up 14.6 fantasy points in the game and played fantastic.

My biggest factor for Brown is he is entering a contract year this season. It’s widely known that a contract year produces much better numbers for players. I’m expecting that Allen who already had affection for Brown should try and force-feed him this season. Players tend to look out for other players. Just look at what Russell Wilson did for WR David Moore in Week 17.

With the contract year, big-play ability, and still sustainable play I’m all aboard the Brown train. His extremely low price tag in dynasty leagues makes him that much more of a catch this season. Grab him now while the price is low.

T.Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts

Another old aging veteran receiver to target for a cheap price in dynasty leagues. This one is a bit dependent on the situation. Quarterback Phillip Rivers lead the room in 2020 as the team’s starter on a one-year deal worth 20 million. Now after losing in the playoffs in heartbreaking fashion to the Bills, it seems like the Colts are destined to move on. And can you blame them?

Rivers was fine in 2020 but not what the team or Hilton needs. Besides to go with a younger veteran or even a rookie could do wonders for the team. Kickstarting an electric offense lead by Hilton and Jonathan Taylor would put the NFL on notice.

Recently in the news quarterback, Carson Wentz is one of the favorites to start as the Colts QB in 2021. It’s not horrible, Wentz got a really bad wrap for his terrible play last season. Head coach Doug Peterson was fired, the offensive line saw 5 starters go down, and the receiver room couldn’t find its health or footing. Wentz wasn’t all to blame and may benefit in ways that Ryan Tannehill did when he transitioned to a new team just a few years ago. Wentz has flashed the skills once before and in the right situation, especially with his former coach Frank Reich he could regain his 2018 form.

If the Colts get a new quarterback in 2021 things will look up for Hilton. But on the odd chance that Rivers does return things were pointing upward the last six weeks of the season. Take a look at the fantasy numbers the veteran produced.

• 18.1 points
• 25.0 points
• 25.6 points
• 11.1 points
• 9.0 points
• 13.7 points

The veteran wide out flashed real upside in the closing stretch of the 2020 season. With an upgrade at QB you could easily see the Colts and Hilton perform better. He shows signs of returning to what he was in 2018. I’m all aboard the Hilton train to return back. I still believe that Hilton is the best receiver on his team and offers great top end play. Take a look at this clip from Hilton.

High-level smarts and skills paired with a potential high upside offense is intriguing to me. With Jonathan Taylor opening up the offense and giving the secondary more one on ones with Hilton he should be open a lot more. Hopefully, the Colts make a move at QB this season volting up Hilton’s stock. I’m grabbing up all the shares of Hilton for cheap that I can. He has about a third or fourth round value draft pick wise this season.

Jamison Crowder, WR, New York Jets

Another cheap dynasty acquire that can potentially set you over the edge. This one may just be even cheaper then the other two veterans and may even offer more upside then the others as well. Theres a new regime in New York. A new coach, coordinators, players, just about everything will be new in 2021 for the Jets. And the arrow can officially start pointing up again, hopefully.

That’s just the start of it, in April the Jets hold the 2nd pick in the draft and are widely expected to take a QB. Which one, nobody knows, and if they will nobody’s knows that either. But I would almost put all my chips on the table and bet they will, and if I’m betting on who they will take, it’ll likely be Justin Fields out of Ohio State.

That’s likely the best case scenario. The kid is an absolute baller. It the conference championship game, Fields and the Ohio State Buckeyes absolutely trounced the Clemson Tigers who were ranked as college footballs number two team in the nation. If the Jets draft Fields it’s just the first step in the chapter of a rebuild and it’s also a huge upgrade for Crowder.

If Fields joins the Jets it’s just the tip of the iceberg for Crowder. But things get better. Missing five games this season Crowder still finished 2020 with 59 receptions, 699 yards, and six touchdowns. Not bad for an offense that ranked nearly dead last in every category and had problems at QB nearly all season. On top of that the Jets had a brutal head coaching situation and health issues with Crowder. Just based on Crowder playing 16 games should volt him into a top-20 receiver and high end flex option.

I love Crowders outlook for now and the future, in 2020 even with missing games he showed clear potential just like in 2019. Out of 12 games played he only scored less than 10 points just four times. He also had over 20 points four times as well. His clear floor to ceiling upside ratio is impressive to say the least.

With a rookie QB likely on the way I can see Crowder getting force feed more then he already did. In 2020 he averaged 7.33 targets per game which is outstanding. To pair a rookie who likely needs a slot presence like Crowder with sure hands he should see even more targets. It’s just another reason to love Crowder. In the first few weeks with Darnold he showed exactly the reasoning that young QBs love tight ends and slot players. He racked up 13, 10, 10, and 13 targets in his first four weeks of work before getting injured.

I’m buying super low on a guy who turns only 28 before the season. He has a high concentration of targets and high level skills. With the potential big changes around the offense and especially at QB im all aboard. A new head coach should bring big things to the Jets and hopefully to Crowders value. In dynasty leagues you can currently get him for a third round or less.

Henry Ruggs III, WR, Las Vegas Raiders

Following the simple rules of buying low when you see the opportunity is huge for dynasty owners. This applies to Henry Ruggs. Just drafted last season in the first round with the 12th pick to the Raiders, Ruggs was a massive playmaker at Alabama. He had the 4.2 speed for his forty-time and showed glimpses of that during an injury-riddled first season.

Just think people are lining up to call the now second-year receiver a bust after only a season. This opens up a window to buy low on a guy who was drafted likely in the first round of your dynasty leagues last year. Just being able to acquire someone after a down year for less than what he was drafted at is prime management. The asking price for Ruggs is around a mid-second-round rookie pick which is a no-brainer currently.

Ruggs had an injury-riddled season as a rookie that saw him play 13 games but was hobbled in the majority of them. He finished a disappointing rookie season catching 26 balls for 452 yards and two touchdowns. Very disappointing but signs of real elite level upside peaked through at points. In Week 13 versus the Jets, Ruggs not only played a career-high 81% of his snaps, but he also was called upon to make the most important catch of the season. Ruggs and QB Derek Carr connected on a 46 yards game-winning touchdown pass with no time remaining on the clock to seal a much-needed victory to keep the playoff hopes alive in that save game. Take a look at the clip.

With elite level speed at the position paired with sure hands, Ruggs should make strides in his second year as a pro. Remember it’s not how you start it’s how you finish. I’m grabbing shares of the young receiver for second round rookie picks in dynasty formats.

The post Top 5 Dynasty Flex Buys appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @BetOnTheGame)

In every draft, there is usually an elite end franchise-altering quarterback. That’s Trevor Lawrence. Then there’s a high end on the brink of elite type QB. That’s Justin Fields. Then lastly there’s guys who show high-end talent, flash signs of greatness, but just aren’t quite polished as off yet. That’s guys like Zach Wilson.

The 21-year old quarterback out of BYU showed flashes of brilliance in his junior season. The star QB showed poise, patience, and high-level knowledge of the game. He flashed quick elusive feet and showed burst and ability to scramble to gain needed yardage. His elite-level timing and anticipation with his receivers is a dream for NFL scouts.

Wilson seems to have the tools of a high-end caliber QB. Scouts have said some extremely positive things about him. The BYU QB is rated as one of college’s top-end quarterbacks. Wilson is widely regarded as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft in April. The only unknown for Wilson is where. Where will he end up? Well, let’s break down the best landing spots for BYU QB Zach Wilson.

1. New England Patriots

If there were ever a top fit for a rookie QB, it would be with the QB whisperer Bill Belichick. His ability to groom young QB’s is beyond impressive. From the findings of the legendary hall of fame Tom Brady to the seventh round former star Matt Cassell, all the way through to making Jimmy Garoppolo a high-end caliber starter.

Belichick just has a way with quarterbacks. If he could make Matt Cassell, a seventh-round pick and flip him into a first-rounder then what can he do with a prospect that seems elite like Wilson? The fit makes too much sense in my mind.

In 2020, the Patriots were among the league’s bottom in almost all QB passing stats including yards, touchdowns, first downs, and many more. Starter Cam Newton sank with the ship leading the Patriots to their first playoff miss since 2009 and first losing record in over 20 years.

The Patriots hold the 15th pick in the NFL Draft and with Cam Newton’s impending free agency on the horizon it makes a lot of sense to connect Wilson with the Patriots. Grabbing a young QB to start the rebuild of replacing Brady is a smart move for resurrecting the franchise.

2. San Francisco 49ers

Kyle Shannahan paired with an elite young QB. Ring a bell? Matt Ryan? Kirk Cousins? Jimmy Garoppolo in his first season? The head coach of the 49ers just has a knack for developing and transforming QBs into young stars.

Zach Wilson could really benefit from learning and growing with Shannahan. The fit really makes sense in my mind. Wilson’s ability to extend plays, move out of the pocket, and throw quick accurate timing routes seems perfect for the 49ers.

Wilson would be walking into a perfect scenario if this were to happen. Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle. You couldn’t ask for a much better array of weapons from jump street. Two young stud receivers, the second-best tight end in the game, and an absolutely stone wall offensive line, and a high-end defense makes things super interesting.

With Jimmy Garoppolo having a $24.1 million cap hit in 2021, the oft injured QB makes a lot of sense to be cut or traded. People forget the 49ers are just a year removed from a superbowl and almost 10 active starters have been upgraded or were injured for all of 2020.

The team finished 6-10 but with Wilson they could skyrocket. Everything with the fit just makes too much sense. The 49ers hold the 12th pick in the draft in April and could be looking to make a big splash like in past years.

3. Carolina Panthers

Offensive coordinator Joe Brady has been in the news a lot lately. Head coaching jobs are open around the league and the new coordinator fresh out of LSU in 2019 has been a hot topic in owners circles. His impressive run at LSU propelled him to a new job in Carolina as the offensive coordinator.

That’s exactly why this makes sense. In a recent interview BYU QB Zach Wilson was quoted as saying this “Another one that I actually haven’t watched much of, but I know they have a good scheme is with Joe Brady and the Carolina Panthers”¦ so that’d be another great landing spot.” Wilson and Bengals QB Joe Burrow have the same agent and have had talks about just how great Brady is.

His offensive mind is one of king and pairing Wilson in that offensive would be perfect. Guys like D.J. Moore, Curtis Samuel, and Robby Anderson were high flying parts of the offense in 2020. But let’s not forget the biggest factor. Running back Christian McCaffrey remains on the team and is the leagues best running back.

Wilson and the Panthers make a lot of sense. Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is up for free agency in 2022 and getting ahead of the curve is always a good thing. Learning from a smart savvy veteran like Bridgewater could do wonders for Wilson long term as guys like Aaron Rodgers learned from watching. The fit makes a ton of sense and the Panthers hold high enough capital with the eighth overall pick in the draft to make the move.

4. Washington Football Team

My goodness if there was a spot I would love to see Wilson land in its here. Alex Smith led the team to a playoff spot. Playoff hero Taylor Heinicke nearly led the football team to a playoff win over the Buccaneers. But Smith and Heincke are not the solutions long term.

Only a near few weeks ago the franchise parted ways with 2018 first-round pick Dwayne Haskins. in hopes to go in a different direction, it’s in the best ways for the franchise to draft a QB. This is where Wilson comes in.

With the franchise having what looks to be a solid core on the defensive side of the ball with arguably the league’s best front seven it may be a smart move to start investing on offense. Head coach Ron Rivera is a fantastic offensive coach. He helped Cam Newton win an MVP and go to the Super Bowl.

Now the franchise can pair up Wilson with elite receiver Terry McLaurin and rising stars Antonio Gibson and Logan Thomas. The fit makes a lot of sense and with some draft capital, the Football Team can pair Wilson and potentially draft some receivers and offensive lineman along with bringing in free agents to help the cause.

5. Atlanta Falcons

Getting ahead of the curve is the best thing to do. With the franchise in disarray it’s likely best they look towards the future. They fired their head coach and several coordinators and staff members during the 2020 season.

In steps 2021, likely a rebuilding year as the Falcons will have several new faces on the staff. With the franchise disappointing recording several losing seasons since 2017 the direction is clear. Rebuild.

Veteran star QB Matt Ryan is on a bad contract and doesn’t make much sense for the franchise anymore. With negative assets on defense and at QB it’s time to plan ahead. The core on offense is there for a young predecessor to step in and succeed from day one.

In comes Wilson. With guys like Julio Jones and Calvin Ridley remaining along with Hayden Hurst at the tight end the environment for a rookie QB is a successful one. The Falcons need to head in the direction that’s best for the franchise, Wilson is that direction.

Everything makes sense for Wilson to succeed and get drafted to the Falcons. The Falcons hold the fourth pick in the draft this upcoming April and it’s time for a direction change on the team.

The post Five Best Landing Spots for BYU QB Zach Wilson appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @BetOnTheGame)

The NFL Draft is only a near few months away. The official date on the calendar marks April 29th as the first round of the draft. Time is ticking and the playoffs are shrinking.

With college football ending and the combine being in doubt for 2021 things are looking shady. It’s even more important to read, to witness, to make sure that you form the best opinions of players you can. At the end of the day, the experts will do all the research in the world and still vary in opinions.

All that matters is how you feel. With the covid factors, football ending, and individual workouts potential not being a thing, it may be the best time to pass not the rookie draft as a whole. But it also opens up the most value. Uncertainty builds value and for the skilled, it opens up opportunities to get a leg up on the competition.

In this article, I’ll be breaking down my few of the top-five fantasy running backs coming out of the 2021 draft class. Make sure to drop a follow and a share to help spread the word and awareness. Now let’s dive in.

Fantasy Football: Top-5 Rookie Running Backs

1. Najee Harris, RB, Alabama

This player is by far my most watched back in college football. His electric play style, quick feet, massive body, and smarts for the game of football present the full package for NFL teams. He is a true five-star package that will have scouts, general managers, coaches, and owners begging to draft this guy.

Coming from a program like Alabama just gives Harris the leg up on the competition. Take a look at the recent running backs drafted from Alabama in recent years.

• Josh Jacobs
• Damien Harris
• Derrick Henry
• Kenyan Drake
• T.J. Yeldon
• Eddy Lacy
• Trent Richardson
• Mark Ingram

Say what you want about this list but almost every one of these guys finished in fantasy as a top 12 back or better. The only runners on this list that haven’t accomplished a top-12 finish or better are Harris and Yeldon. Harris is only a second-year pro who was active only 10 games this season in 2020 and redshirted in 2019.

Guy’s like Lacy, Richardson, and Henry have all finished as RB5 or better and Henry himself has been a top three runner over the past two seasons rushing for 2000 yards in 2020. Alabama is known for producing running backs of high yield.

But this isn’t about those other guys, it’s about Harris. And man oh man is Harris a monster. In big games, he really shows his explosiveness on display. Take a look at this electric run in the college football playoffs only a week ago.

The winner of the Doak Walker award in college football, look at the absolutely insane vertical and speed by Harris. His quick burst aftering touching the football is flooring. The football skills this guy possesses is off the charts.

During his senior season in 2020, Harris ran for the third-most yards in all of the college football totaling 1387 yards and 24 touchdowns. A true monster. He is a perfect fit for any NFL offense and no matter the landing spot he is by far the number one back in my mind.

2. Travis Etienne, RB, Clemson

Yes, this list is basic. Harris and Etienne are one and two. But really, let’s just keep it simple. These guys are clear and obvious the top runners in the country and should be the first two off the board come draft day.

Etienne is a unit in the passing game and is a game-changer as a pure runner. He transcends any offense in the NFL, he fits all schemes and from day one should be a starting caliber back. As a senior, he was 17th in rushing with just short of 1000 yards on the season. But he did show duel threat capability catching 48 balls for 588 yards and two touchdowns.

Second in the nation in yards after the catch is Etienne. Just unbelievable. I also forgot to mention that not just in his senior season was Etienne productive, but his college career as a whole was impressive. His departure from Clemson will leave them missing the ACC’s all-time leading rusher. Etienne has flashed off great receiving backs like Reggie Bush, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and many more.

The big body, quick feet, and pass-catching skills have him slotting in as my second-rated back for fantasy in 2021. Depending on the landing spot I could easily see him having a fantastic season like Jonathan Taylor of the Colts.

3. Javonte Williams, RB, North Carolina

Coming from a small-time program like North Carolina, Williams didn’t get a lot of attention as a junior. That didn’t stop him from becoming a household name. The young runner ran 157 times during his junior season to the tune of 1140 yards and 19 touchdowns. He ranked sixth in all of college football in total yardage in 2020 having an excellent season.

Williams is a wrecking ball, his frame sits him at 5′ 10″, 220 pounds. He’s a unit, his size and frame presents major problems for defenders. Take a look at this clip of Williams ripping off a big run.

He never goes down on the first contact and his burst of open field speed is special. Williams is sitting at my third best rated back in college football. Depending on the location he could even rise higher. He as well as the two above him should transcend any offensive scheme.

4. Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Memphis

Gainwell is a bit of a spark plug, so he isn’t your prototypical running back. He is a converted high school quarterback turned running back. But man has he looked good in the transition.

Take a look at the stats the sophomore runner produced in his first season in college. 1,459 rushing yards (6.3 avg) and 13 TDs with 51 receptions for 610 yards and three receiving TDs in his first season of playing running back as a redshirt freshman in 2019. An absolute nightmare of a runner.

What makes me value Gainwell is his size. For the same reasons, I love Williams above translate exactly to Gainwell. He is however just a bit smaller standing at 5’11” 195 pounds. He still packs an absolute punch at the position. What he does with his frame is super impressive. He is a decisive ball carrier that is slippery and quick. He explodes through holes and attacks the line of scrimmage with confidence. Willing to lower his pads and challenge tacklers with physicality. Terrific lateral quickness and the ability to make dynamic cuts outside of his frame.

Look at that impressive running style, nearly impossible to tackle on the first contact. Williams’s pass-catching ability is what really catches my eyes. He is a natural pass catcher who does a fantastic job reading screens and extending plays. In college, he was often used as a slot receiver in the offense.

Gainwell is my number four rated back in the draft. He reminds me a bit of what Clyde Edwards-Helaire was. He should offer fantasy value from day one.

5. Chuba Hubbard, RB, Oklahoma State

Hubbard is debatably my favorite pure runner in the class even tied with Najee Harris. I’m in love with the size the physicality and the bruising nature he brings. I’m just not in love with his pass catching skills. Let’s look at his running skills.

Look at how he fights off contact and just doesn’t go down. He picks up extra yards often with his size. He sits ast6 foot 210 pounds, a massive man to say the least. With such a big man to possess such high-end speed is alarming for linebackers and corners.

One big plus that comes with Hubbard is his high level of patience he possesses. He reminds me of a bit of Le’Veon Bell when he runs. Waits for holes to open hits them quickly and then bursts through the seems. He operates in tight holes exactly how Bell does and looks extremely comfortable doing so.

I really believe that Hubbard might be the best runner in the class and I truly mean that. He just looks the part and that speed is a killer thing for running backs. He is locked in as my number five back as of now. He does have some flaws that can keep him off the field during passing downs but as a pure runner, he can be a huge first and second down runner for a team. When his spot gets decided it’s not out of the question he may move to my RB1 among rookies.

The post Fantasy Football: Top Five Rookie Running Backs appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

By: Kyle Williams (Twitter: @betonthegame)

With America’s capital in shambles, the core beliefs of all shook, and everyone and everywhere filled with hate and uninspiring voices. Things look bleak and the times look sad. We can’t let that stop us. Our voices need to be heard and we all need to speak out.

In sad times, we all look for something to get away from. I admit I’m not the biggest political person. In fact, I tend to stay far away from politics. But I just wanted to say my piece and tell everyone to stay safe and continue to speak out and help your community. Be a leader, donate, help your local businesses, and continue to make the community a better place for the people you love and the people around you.

Now let’s dive into this article and get away from the distractions of every day life. Here are five running backs that I’m buying in dynasty before the start of the 2021 season.

Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys

The profit is in the panic, and this is exactly where Elliott comes in. The goal is always to win of course, but it takes skill, patients, and a lot of work. Buying low and selling high is just one of the several things you have to do. Why is it time to buy Zeke? Here’s why.

Dak Prescott, simple. He was an absolute force when he was with Prescott was there and not so much when Prescott wasn’t there. Take a look at the splits.

• With: 5 Games, 89 Carries, 364 Yards, 5 Touchdowns, 24 Receptions, 173 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 22.34 Fantasy Points Per Game
• Without: 10 Games, 155 Carries, 615 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 28 Receptions, 165 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 13.55 Fantasy points per game

Everything dropped off after Prescott got hurt. Yards per carry, touchdowns, receptions, fantasy points per game, everything. But it wasn’t just the loss of Prescott that hurt. The Cowboys had several linemen including all-pro Zack Martin get hurt. They lost stars La’el Collins and Tyron Smith for the season in early November and lost tight end Blake Jarwin in December. Those are just some of the names.

Losing your starting QB, three of your top lineman, and two backups is a brutal beat.

Even with everything that happened, Elliott still finished as the RB9 in fantasy formats. He is still a high-caliber back and with the offense staying intact this offseason we can easily see Elliott return to the previous form. I’m buying him with everyone selling him for so cheap.

D’Andre Swift, RB, Detroit Lions

This one is going to cost you, believe me I understand it is. But I’m willing to pay for his value know because I believe we haven’t even scratched the surface of his potential. This season is just the beginning of what’s to come for the young star running back. Take a look.

• 13 Games, 114 Rushes, 521 Yards, 8 Touchdowns, 57 Targets, 46 Receptions, 357 Yards, 2 Touchdowns, 14.6 PPR Points per game, RB20 on the season

Just keep in mind, rookie season, two runners ahead didn’t collect a start until Week 6, and battled through injuries and covid. All that and he still was RB20, crazy right? The average is insane as well, he averaged 14.6 PPG only starting half of the season. He is truly a special player. Take a look at some plays from Swift this season.

Swift is an all-pro talent, his electric running style, paired with his high motor and quick feet is the icing on the cake giving his unbelievable receiving skills. He is truly a five-star back in every sense of the word.

The elite talent is just the beginning, a crazy stat for you is that Swift only saw 47% snap share this season. What can we expect in 2021 with a near 60+ snap share percentage? Swift is an easy Top-12 back. The situation for next season is only going to prove better and vault his snap share. Take a look at this tweet that sums it up perfectly.

It’s worth paying the price for Swift. Buying now in my eyes is still buying “low.” I’m all aboard Swift as a no-brainer top-10 back next season and in my eyes, he may push top-6.

Zack Moss, RB, Buffalo Bills

I refuse to give up on this guy. Drafted in the third round out of Utah, Moss was one of my favorite backs in the class. He has the insane size and is an absolute brute bruiser of a runner. That pairs perfectly with the Bills new high-powered offense.

Look at his slippery speed and touch, he’s extremely hard to take down on contact. Moss didn’t have the greatest fantasy season as he finished as RB48 with 101 fantasy points. Remember though he was behind Devin Singletary and that could change by next season. Singletary is heading into a potential contract year in 2021 and it could be Moss’ backfield by 2022.

Buying low now especially in a clear situation surrounded by elite talent is a no-brainer. Moss should be the lead back by 2022 if not potentially even next season. People aren’t treating him with enough respect plummeting his stock. Buy now while the window is low.

Damien Harris, RB, New England Patriots

I have to get this out of the way to start this. Yes, I’m a Patriots fan. Yes, I’m a Harris truther. Yes, it doesn’t matter, but I just had to tell you in case it matters. In my eyes, Harris is clearly an uber-talented back. He has tremendous speed, hands, and size. Take a look at one of his runs from his first real year in the league in 2020.

Harris was a gem in fantasy leagues. He only played a near 10 games this season, but he made the most of it during those games. In half of those games, he had over 10 fantasy points. He did that while only seeing an average of fewer than 14 carries per game and zero receiving work. It’s what Harris did in games with over 16 carries is what’s so impressive.

In three games where he had over 16 carries he had the following rushing yards: 121, 102, 80. In each of those games, he had an average carry of over 5 yards. He is an absolute unit on the field.

With guys like Sony Michel potentially being a trade or cut candidate along with Burkhead, it’s easy to carve out a bigger 2021 role for Harris. I’m buying him super low right now in hopes that in 2021 he sees an uptick in work in the passing game and receiving game.

It’s also great to note the offense should be better next season with potentially a new Qb and some WR upgrades. That should open up major holes for Harris to run through and potentially he can expand his game with check-downs and screens.

Ke’Shawn Vaughn, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There really isn’t much analysis or stats I can provide you with on this one. The few things I can say though is that Leonard Fournette stinks and Ronald Jones is only alright. Listen, Fournette will not be on this team next year and neither will LeSean McCoy. Just with those two gone right there it opens up a major role in the offense. It frees up the following carries and yards.

Fournette – 97 Carries, 367 Yards, 6 Touchdowns

Just with that alone it propels Vaughn into a defect fantasy hold. Jones has shown an injury history and innefiecncy at times as well. With both being out or hurt it propels Vaughn front and center.

The talent is also there. Vaughn was a stud in college. Check out this play from his college days.

There isn’t a whole lot to say. People are low on Vaugh with all the weapons and backs infant of him. I’m fading the noise and buying him for a cheap price as a potential 2021 upside player.

The post Dynasty Fantasy Football: 5 RBs to Buy appeared first on Pro Football Mania.