Dynasty Watch - Week P1
Posted 1/4 by Jeff Tefertiller, Sigmund Bloom, and Jeff Pasquino, Exclusive to Footballguys.com
For the 2007 season, the Dynasty Staff highlighted 133 different NFL players for they dynasty potential. Some of these guys really came through. Some did not. Others are still a question mark for the future. Here's a recap of the 2007 Dynasty Watch players from the AFC that did not make the playoffs:
Kyle Boller, QB, Baltimore Ravens (Weeks 3 and 11)
Accomplishments - Boller was in and out of the lineup at quarterback for the Ravens, starting eight games and appearing in 12. He finished the season on the bench with a concussion, missing the last two games.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Steve McNair was the starting QB for Baltimore coming into the season, but with his health in question and his performances less than great, it quickly became a "when" not "if" situation for Boller to get the starting job for the Ravens.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Kyle Boller signed a $3M contract with Baltimore for 2008 early in September, which at the time seemed like a mistake as the 2008 free agent QB pool looked to be pretty shallow. Now with Boller getting the chance and underwhelming, his guarantee for next year looks like quite a good deal for Boller. As for Baltimore, the team is in transition with no head coach so the future is uncertain for every Raven but a choice few.
Troy Smith, QB, Baltimore Ravens (Weeks 10 and 16)
Accomplishments - Troy Smith got into the action in Week 14 in a blowout against the Colts, then becoming the starter in Week 16. Smith provided a spark for the lifeless Ravens for the final two weeks of the year as he completed over half of his passes while gaining over 170 yards and a touchdown in both games against the Seahawks and Steelers.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Steve McNair fell apart and Kyle Boller didn't excite anyone, so of course you look to the third option at QB for the team.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The Ravens are in turmoil. They just fired Brian Billick who had coached the team for nine seasons, but they were never known for offensive prowess. Smith could come into 2008 in a battle with Boller to start for the team, but the only thing that is certain for Baltimore is change this offseason. Smith could be the starter or he could be fighting against a new rookie draft pick. He does have viable upside, but nothing is a given for any Raven quarterback.
Musa Smith, RB, Baltimore Ravens (Week 17)
Accomplishments - Smith did well in his first NFL start in the final game of 2007, rushing for 83 yards and a score on 22 carries against Pittsburgh. The Steelers were resting several players and Corey Ross also looked pretty good, so that undermines Smith's performance.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Running backs are the kings of fantasy football, so any time a new one gets a chance to start you have to take a serious look. Musa Smith did fine, but he did not light up the stats or the scoreboard like you might hope for a real prospect.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Smith had a nice game against the Steelers, but it is questionable if it was enough of a personal performance to showcase his wares to get another good job for 2008. Smith might wind up in a running back by committee (RBBC) role somewhere next season or possibly back as Willis McGahee's understudy next season, but his prospects are not very high going forward. There are too many talented rushers looking for employment in the NFL.
Haloti Ngata, DT, Baltimore Ravens (Week 14)
Accomplishments - One of the bright spots for the Ravens was their run defense, led by the inside play of their stout tackles, Ngata and Kelly Gregg. Ngata had 63 tackles (43 solo), three sacks, a forced fumble and even defended a pass.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Ngata was on a hot streak with 21 solo tackles, eight assists and a sack in Weeks 10-14, highlighted by a great game (7 solo tackles, one sack) on Monday Night Football against the Patriots.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - A strong argument could be made that Ngata should have gone to his first Pro Bowl. His name isn't as known across the league, but it will be soon enough. You may be able to capitalize on that lack of recognition of Ngata in your fantasy league. If your league requires defensive tackles as a position, Ngata is one of the best young prospects around.
Jarret Johnson, LB, Baltimore Ravens (Week 3)
Accomplishments - Johnson had ample chances this season with the Ravens suffering many losses on the defensive side of the ball, starting with Adalius Thomas' departure to New England. Injuries also took their toll, but for the most part Johnson benefited from starting next to Pro Bowler Ray Lewis and feeding off of his productivity.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Adalius Thomas left a strong 2006 Ravens defense, and the opening allowed Johnson to step in and try and fill his role and production. He finished the year with 58 tackles (46 solo), two sacks, two forced fumbles and two passes defended.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Johnson is signed through 2011, but his contract leaps from $600K to $2M for 2008. Given his contributions this season and the needs at other positions, Johnson should stick around through the new coaching regime, but his starter role may be in jeopardy. Younger linebackers like Antwan Barnes may have shown enough when Johnson lost some time with a broken thumb to cost him that spot next year. He seems to be a backup at best next season.
Trent Edwards, QB, Buffalo Bills (Weeks 3 and 4)
Accomplishments - The ex-Stanford star finished the year as the 30th ranked passer even though he only appeared in ten games. His fantasy production was erratic. The first year pro only had two games with at least 200 yards passing. In addition, Edwards only threw for a touchdown in three of the ten games. The main positive is that Edwards led the team to some victories and seems to have the support of the locker room. Also, the game experience is invaluable.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The rookie played well since taking over in week three for an injured J.P. Losman. Losman started a couple games in the middle of the year when he got healthy, but the Bills turned back to the former Cardinal. Edwards still had difficulty scoring fantasy points even though he led the Bills to some wins. Only twice did Trent Edwards score more than fifteen fantasy points in a game.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The job is Edwards' to lose. He is the franchise passer of the future, but the upside is somewhat limited in the Bill offense. Trent Edwards can easily become a top fifteen fantasy passer, but needs to display consistency. It will be difficult for the rookie from Stanford to jump up into the category of fantasy starter. Also, he battled injuries throughout his college career, so that is one concern.
Dwayne Wright, RB, Buffalo Bills (Week 12)
Accomplishments - Drafted in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft, Dwayne Wright brought expectations to Buffalo. He disappointed as a rookie. Wright finished the year with 29 carries for 94 yards, with no scores. In addition, the rookie caught three passes for 17 yards. He finished as the 110th ranked fantasy running back in 2007.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - With Marshawn Lynch and Anthony Thomas injured, Wright saw action in a few games. The first year pro only had more than one carry in four games. He had 40% of his season carries in week eight, but only gained 25 yards on 12 carries. When given the opportunity to shine, the rookie had difficulty distinguishing himself.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The rookie from Fresno State was passed on the depth chard by Fred Jackson and Anthony Thomas. He averaged barely three yards a carry. The former fourth round pick might be lucky to make the Bills' team in 2008. With two young ball carriers (Lynch and Jackson) ahead of him on the depth chart, Dwayne Wright will struggle to get carries going forward.
Fred Jackson, RB, Buffalo Bills (Week 12)
Accomplishments - Fred Jackson is a name many are still unfamiliar with. He finished the season as the 65th ranked fantasy ball carrier despite only playing in eight games. The rookie ended the season with 58 carries for 300 yards, an average of 5.2 yards per carry. In addition, he hauled in 22 of his 29 pass targets for 190 yards.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The rookie did not see his first action until week eight. But, in weeks 13 and 14, the former star of tiny Coe played very well. In those two games, Jackson carried the ball 31 times for 197 yards and hauled in five passes for 75 yards. The injuries to Marshawn Lynch and Anthony Thomas opened the door for the rookie to get carries.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The speedy ball carrier has solidified his role in the Buffalo Bill offense. His receiving skills allow Jackson to be a good complement to Lynch for years to come. He caught at least three passes in three of the seven games he played. Fred Jackson is a player to remember. He is versatile and is a player that will progress as he matures.
Jim Leonhard, S, Buffalo Bills (Week 2)
Accomplishments - The former undrafted player from Wisconsin finished the season with 38 tackles, 10 assists, two interceptions and three passes defended. The 183-pound safety disappointed fantasy owners after a great week one where he had eight tackles, five assists, one interception, and one pass defended against Denver. He only had two more games all season with at least 8.5 fantasy points. The third year pro finished the season as the 129th ranked defensive back. Leonard ended the season with 44 tackles, 10 assists, two interceptions and three passes defended.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Leonard missed three games in the middle of the season with a calf injury. He replaced Ko Simpson and was an average fantasy player. At the time, fantasy owners did not know if Leonhard was a one-week wonder or not. Well, he could not keep up the pace.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Jim Leonhard is an exclusive rights free agent. Even if he remains in Buffalo, the former Badger is not guaranteed a starting spot. Historically, the free safety position for the Bills is not a big fantasy producer.
DeDe Dorsey, RB, Cincinnati Bengals (Week 14)
Accomplishments - Dorsey had an interesting year, starting out as a member of the Indianapolis Colts and then finishing the year in Cincinnati.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The Bengals needed help with their running attack all year, as Rudi Johnson was a major disappointment. Dorsey was added in late September off of the waiver wire and used sparingly until the second half of the year. He burst for 81 yards on just four touches in Week 14 against the Rams, which caught our eye.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Dorsey was placed on injured reserve due to a high ankle sprain, but also so the Bengals could hold on to him for 2008. Dorsey finished the year with 21 carries for 183 yards, not bad but not spectacular either. Dorsey is only 23 and has but two years of NFL experience, so there is still plenty of room for upside if the Bengals find a way to work him into the offense.
Glenn Holt, WR, Cincinnati Bengals (Week 3)
Accomplishments - Once upon a time the Bengals could seemingly score at will. After rolling up a 51-45 Week 2 victory over the Cleveland Browns, the third WR option seemed to be a nice pickup. Chris Henry was suspended until Week 10, and Holt came in with five catches for five first downs, 52 yards and a score.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - After the Week 2 performance, Holt contributed a grand total of 10 more receptions for 84 more yards and no scores. All of his catches came prior to Week 10, so he became a complete afterthought once Henry returned from his suspension.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - So much for that. Holt may not even make the squad for 2008 and has next to no fantasy value going forward. Sometimes they are one hit wonders, and you move on to the next prospect.
Chris Henry, WR, Cincinnati Bengals (Week 10)
Accomplishments - Henry was suspended until Week 10 of 2007 by the league, but then he came back with two big games to post very good numbers (12 catches, 180 yards and a touchdown). Unfortunately for those who used Henry after that, he was a very big disappointment. He finished the season with only nine more catches and one score (final numbers: 21-343-2).
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The Bengals can throw, that's something that we always knew. With Carson Palmer and three solid receivers in 2006, all of his top three wideouts had great seasons and at least seven touchdowns each. Henry was a big part of that and with the Bengals facing easier teams, it figured that Henry would post good numbers in the second half of 2007.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - There is no question that Chris Henry has NFL wide receiver talent. The bigger question is his mental status, and whether he can handle working week after week to perform at the high level that he is certainly capable of doing if his effort is there. Head coach Marvin Lewis has openly questioned Henry, which could mean that his days as a Bengal are numbered.
Jonathan Joseph, CB, Cincinnati Bengals (Week 14)
Accomplishments - Joseph saw a lot of action for a bad pass defense in the Bengals this season. Joseph had 62 tackles (49 solo) and four interceptions for Cincinnati in 2007 in his second year with 15 passes defended - very similar numbers to his rookie season (49-13 tackles, 20 defends in 2006).
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Joseph was a key part of the Bengals attempts at pass defense this year. Teams often targeted Cincinnati through the air, and Joseph was able to put up decent numbers in coverage, including at least five tackles in each of his final six games this season.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The third season should be the charm for Joseph as the Bengals will look to rebuild a troubled defense around younger and solid prospects. Teams will continue to test Cincinnati's maligned defense until they prove that they can stop someone, so in either case Joseph could have very solid numbers in 2008 and beyond.
Jerome Harrison, RB, Cleveland Browns (Week 7)
Accomplishments - In Week 7, some were still questioning the status of Jamal Lewis for the Browns. Harrison had just finished posting a decent performance against Miami (8-57 rushing, 1-15 receiving). That was fool's gold apparently, as Harrison finished with less than 100 more yards the rest of the way (15-85 rushing, 1-4 receiving).
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Harrison has been with the Browns for two seasons but has had little production or chances to contribute. At first, with questions surrounding Jamal Lewis for both ability and health, Harrison had a good chance to contribute in the second half of 2007. That never came to be as Lewis exploded in November and December.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Harrison is a young NFL back who will turn 25 this coming February, so there is plenty of future left ahead of him. Unfortunately for Harrison, Jamal Lewis has reemerged as a solid NFL starter and is still just 28 years old, which limits Harrison's prospects in Cleveland. His upside right now is the backup to Lewis at best for 2008.
Leigh Bodden, CB, Cleveland Browns (Week 5)
Accomplishments - Bodden had a fantastic season at cornerback for the Browns, leading all defensive backs with 88 tackles (76 solo), three fumble recoveries and 6 interceptions along with 15 passes defended. He led a troubled Cleveland secondary who was thrown upon in many games this season.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The Browns were getting thrown on early and often, and Bodden was racking up either a tackle, pass defended or interception on nearly every series. The trend continued as the Browns were pretty bad in defending the pass all season.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The 26-year old defensive back for the Browns had never played a full season before 2007, and now that he has and everyone has seen the types of performances that Bodden is capable of, the rest of the league will be taking notice. He is signed for two more years at a reasonable price (under $2M for both years) so he should be a younger foundation for the Browns to rebuild their secondary around.
Selvin Young, RB, Denver Broncos (Week 3)
Accomplishments - After beating the odds to make the Broncos as an undrafted free agent, Young eventually overtook Travis Henry as the starting RB and rushed for over 5 yards a carry and nearly posted 1000 total yards despite seeing little playing time during the first six games of the season and only getting double digit carries in six of the remaining ten games.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - At the time, Young was poised to be next in line to start in Denver because of Travis Henry's drug test results. Henry ended up beating the rap, but his place in Denver's future plans is still dicey, and Young ended the season as the starter.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Young will likely enter 2008 training camp as the incumbent starter, and he looked capable of holding down the job with the ball in his hands this year (if he can stay healthy).
Andre Hall, RB, Denver Broncos (Week 6)
Accomplishments - Hall made the 53 man roster after starting out on the Denver practice squad over a year ago, and impressively put up 167 total yards and a TD in his only start of the year at Chicago.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Hall might be the most physically talented RB on the Denver roster, and we all know the revolving door that that position has been over the last few years. He showed that he can get the job done, and deserves a roster spot in dynasty leagues until this situation sorts itself in 2008.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Hall might only be behind Selvin Young in '08 - who has already had his tendency to get nicked up in college at Texas follow him into the pros.
Brandon Stokley, WR, Denver Broncos (Week 8)
Accomplishments - Stokley was able to stay healthy for most of the year and played a big role in Denver after Javon Walker's knee acted up. Stokley acted as a downfield weapon for Jay Cutler, slipping into dead spots in coverage when the play broke down, scoring five TDs and bringing down 40 balls for almost 16 yards a catch.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Stokley became a starter for the remainder of the season after Walker had to go under the knife, and he's since been re-signed for the long term. Stokley was surprisingly consistent, with either 50+ yards receiving or a TD in seven of the last eight games he played in.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Javon Walker has voiced his displeasure with being in Denver, so Stokley has a good chance to again find himself an opening day starter, but he'll be 32 next year, so his productive years are waning.
Sage Rosenfels, QB, Houston Texans (Week 9)
Accomplishments - The Iowa State product ended up playing a major role for the Texans this year, leading the team to a 4-1 record in his five starts, and playing large parts in four other games, including the almost miracle comeback from 25 down in the 4th quarter vs. Tennessee.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Matt Schaub was putting himself in harm's way too often and wore down as the season went on, opening the door for Rosenfels, who had shown some spirited play during a previous stint in Miami. Rosenfels will continue to be relevant as at least a productive backup to an oft-injured starter.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Don't expect the Texans to turn to Rosenfels over Schaub, but Schaub's medical report from 2007 indicates that Rosenfels is likely to get at least a few more starts in Schaub's stead. He might be one of the top 32 QBs in the league, and he might get a chance to start somewhere when his contract expires before the 2010 season (or earlier if someone bowls the Texans over with an offer similar to the one they made to Atlanta for Schaub).
Adimchinobe "Joe" Echemandu, RB, Houston Texans (Week 9)
Accomplishments - Echemandu got picked up by the Texans after getting cut by the Raiders despite being one of their most impressive backs in training camp. He was able to rush for 62 yards on only 10 carries in the one game he saw extensive action in before getting hurt.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - With Ahman Green's balky knee swelling and Ron Dayne still looking like a trusty backup RB plowhorse, but nothing more, opportunity knocks in the Houston backfield.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Echemandu was waived by the Texans in week 16, so you can take him off of your radar until he's on a gameday 53 man roster again.
Darius Walker, RB, Houston Texans (Week 12)
Accomplishments - Walker overcame the stigma of going undrafted despite coming out as a junior, going unsigned until May 10 after reaching an impasse with the Bears, and then being cut by the Texans in July to make an impact in the last month of the season. Walker rushed for an impressive 4.6 yards per carry and caught 13 balls in the last 4 games of 2007.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - See Echemandu - this job remains up for grabs, and it's one that has produced good numbers over the years no matter how bad the Texans have been.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Walker got re-signed after Chris Taylor tore his ACL early in training camp, and he will likely have to battle Taylor for a roster spot in 2008. Walker looked like he might be a competent backup/3rd down back, and with the frequency of injuries at the position, that kind of player is worth carrying in most dynasty leagues.
Andre Davis, WR, Houston Texans (Week 4)
Accomplishments - Davis resurrected his career filling in for another Andre. He became the Texans best deep threat while Johnson was out, and cemented his value going forward by returning two kickoffs for TD in the final game of the season, giving him three for the year and a 30+ yard average on 32 returns.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Davis was thrust into the starting lineup and given a lot more playing time when Jacoby Jones joined Andre Johnson on the injury report, and he capitalized by scoring twice and almost averaging 20 yards a catch in his first five games. He'll be a free agent this offseason and will surely get some interest in the open market.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Davis should be a designated deep threat and at least a WR3 or WR4 somewhere, and showed that he will have fantasy value anytime he can get into the starting lineup. Welcome back, Andre.
Jacoby Jones, WR, Houston Texans (Week 3)
Accomplishments - The Texans made an effort to get Jones involved early in the season, and he had caught 13 balls for 121 yards by the midway point of the season, but his role shrunk greatly after Andre Johnson returned in week 11.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Jones is a top notch physical talent out of Division II Lane College, going in the early third round of the 2007 draft despite such a humble pedigree. He hit the ground running in preseason with some spectacular punt returns and a twisting touchdown catch. Jones best days are yet to come.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Kevin Walter and Andre Davis have both carved out places of their own in the Houston passing offense, but Jones athletic ability will make it hard for the Texans to keep him off the field in coming years. He still has NFL starter upside, and should be rostered in all but the deepest of dynasty leagues.
Fred Bennett, CB, Houston Texans (Week 17)
Accomplishments - Bennett took on a lot of responsibility for a rookie corner, becoming a starter opposite Dunta Robinson, then drawing the opposition's top receiver after Robinson went down. The big, physical South Carolina product was an IDP MVP down the stretch, averaging over five tackles a game and notching three INTs in the second half of the season.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Bennett was certainly worth a look under the rookie corner theory once he got significant playing time, but his sure tackling and good ball skills indicate that he might retain that temporary value.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Bennett was a top 5 DB over the last six games and has elevated himself to every-week fantasy starter status at a position that has lacked consistency.
Brodie Croyle, QB, Kansas City Chiefs (Week 6)
Accomplishments - After not instilling enough confidence in Herman Edwards to start on opening day despite a clear desire in the organization for him to win that job, Croyle took over for good in week 11, and showed modest improvement and a good arm.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - He is the anointed one (for now) in KC, and should be given at least one more chance to start before being cast aside.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Croyle has NFL smarts and an NFL arm. He also has a young #1 to mature with in Dwayne Bowe, and a classic safety valve in Tony Gonzalez. He hasn't really had the chance to enjoy the advantage of having Larry Johnson behind him in the backfield. Still, his upside is capped at adequate fantasy backup QB as long as Herm Edwards is the coach in KC.
Gilbert Harris, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (Week 15)
Accomplishments - For a little bit there, Harris was the only backup to Kolby Smith on the Chiefs roster. He got twelve touches in four games during his stint on the active roster.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - He was a Smith injury away from mattering in fantasy leagues, but he has since been passed by Jackie Battle
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Harris is a FB/RB tweener, which will help him stay on rosters, but it's unlikely that he'll ever be a primary backup on gameday again.
Kolby Smith, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (Week 7)
Accomplishments - Smith got the call after Priest Holmes once again suffered a career ending injury. He made a huge splash in his first start with 150 yards and two TDs vs. Oakland, and ended the season with over 500 total yards in a little over five games of significant action.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Any starting RB is worth carrying, and Smith proved himself as a backup quality NFL RB, so he'll continue to be a Larry Johnson injury away from starting again.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Smith ran tough between the tackles and showed good hands, so he should start 2008 as the backup, although the Chiefs did give Jackie Battle a long look during week 17.
Jeff Webb, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (Week 7)
Accomplishments - Webb got some time as the #2 in KC with injuries to Eddie Kennison and continued inconsistency from Samie Parker and had a mini-breakout in week 6 with seven catches for 78 yards vs. Cincinnati.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - KC did not seem to have any strong candidates to play across from Dwayne Bowe after Kennison got banged up, and the situation is not any better now than it was then.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Webb only showed potential as a decent possession receiver on short and intermediate routes, although he did end the season on the high note with a touchdown in week 17. Keep him on your radar if he moves up the depth chart in '08 training camp.
Cleo Lemon, QB, Miami Dolphins (Week 7)
Accomplishments - Cleo Lemon played pretty well this season. The Dolphins are void of playmakers and looks to be in a rebuilding mode. In only nine games, Lemon ranked as the 25th best fantasy quarterback in 2007. He completed 173 of 309 passes for 1773 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions. He added four more scores on the ground.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Lemon bounced around a few teams before landing with the Miami Dolphins. John Beck was seen as the future passer for the franchise. But, the rookie did not play well this season, leaving the door open for Lemon. With the serious head injury of Trent Green and the ineffectiveness of Beck, Lemon saw extended action in 2007. Even in week seventeen, coach Cameron named Lemon the starter because he gave the team "the best chance to win".
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The Dolphins do not have a passer for the future. John Beck looks like a flop. But, the former Arkansas State is a free agent in 2008. This, combined with the chance of a new coaching staff in Miami, may leave the 28 year old looking for a new team this offseason. The Dolphins look to be a rebuilding team again in 2008. With Bill Parcells running the show in Miami, fantasy owners should expect the team to draft another passer in 2008 or trade for a veteran. Lemon should have a chance to play a little during the transition to the newcomer.
Jesse Chatman, RB, Miami Dolphins (Weeks 2 and 8)
Accomplishments - One of the year's biggest surprises, Jesse Chatman played well after the injury to Ronnie Brown. Even though he only had 13 carries going into week seven, Chatman finished the season as the 49th ranked running back in fantasy leagues. He totaled 515 rushing yards on 128 carries and one score. He also hauled in 27 of his 37 pass targets for 161 receiving yards.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Chatman entered the picture as the starting running back for the Dolphins in week eight after the injury to Ronnie Brown. The former undrafted rookie from Eastern Washington has been a big surprise since taking over for Brown. Chatman has played very well for an anemic Dolphin offense. He suffered through the growing pains of John Beck and Cleo Lemon.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The former Charger is a free agent in 2008. With Coach Cameron's job in jeopardy, Chatman might be playing elsewhere next season. He followed Cameron to Miami. The Dolphins expect both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams to be healthy for training camp. In addition, Lorenzo Booker looks like a true threat as a receiver. Opportunity for Jesse Chatman will be limited in Miami. His best chance for playing time will be with another team. The ex-Charger will be 29 years old next September.
Lorenzo Booker, RB, Miami Dolphins (Week 8)
Accomplishments - Lorenzo Booker did not get his first NFL carry until week 13. In the last five games, Booker accumulated 125 yards on 28 carries and he grabbed 28 of his 36 pass targets for 237 yards. Booker is the 76th ranked fantasy ball carrier for 2007. The rookie gained at least 47 total yards in each of those five games he appeared.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Lorenzo Booker was active in week eight as predicted. His receiving skills were on display. The former Florida State Seminole is a playmaker in space and has taken advantage of the opportunity Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams injured and Jesse Chatman nicked.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - As stated in week eight, Booker' best attributes are suited for PPR leagues. He is a weapon out of the backfield and should be a great complement for Ronnie Brown. The rookie is one of just a few playmakers for the Dolphins. Fantasy owners should expect Booker's skill set to be utilized well in 2008. Booker will be used as a change of pace back in coming years.
Patrick Cobbs, RB, Miami Dolphins (Weeks 8 and 13)
Accomplishments - Patrick Cobbs was another who disappointed for the Miami Dolphins. He carried the ball 15 times for 47 yards and one touchdown. Cobbs also caught two of his five pass targets for 20 yards. This production netted a RB105 ranking.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Cobbs led the nation in rushing while playing for North Texas. With the plethora of injuries to the Dolphin running backs, the 24-year old was given some opportunity. He did little with it, and fumbled his chance away. Patrick Cobbs did not get a carry since week twelve. Samkon Gado even passed Cobbs on the depth chart.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - He has little future in the NFL. The young ball carrier will be an exclusive rights free agent in 2008. The former star of the Mean Green will compete for a job in camp next year, but should not be on the fantasy radar.
Ricky Williams, RB, Miami Dolphins (Week 12)
Accomplishments - Ricky Williams played in only one game on the season after being reinstated from suspension. This was his first game action since the 2005 season. Ricky has 7112 rushing yards and 1899 receiving yards in his career. He was a top ten fantasy back for three seasons.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The veteran ball carrier has over 9,000 career total yards and was healthy for the week twelve matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Well, six carries for fifteen yards later and the former Longhorn has a torn pectoral muscle. He is under contract with the Dolphins for the 2008 season, and becomes a free agent in 2009. Williams will turn 31 years old this coming May.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Ricky Williams was told to stay in Miami during the five-month rehab. It is unknown what the Dolphins, and the Miami offense, will look like in 2008. The former Saint will probably not be the primary ball carrier, unless due to injury. But, Williams could be a fantasy factor if given the chance.
Samkon Gado, RB, Miami Dolphins (Week 14)
Accomplishments - Samkon Gado was released by Houston early in the season and was signed by Miami. He finished the year with 53 carries for 150 yards and four rushing scores. Also, Gado caught 12 of his 13 pass targets for 106 yards.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Gado was signed after the injuries to Brown and Williams and the ineffectiveness of Cobbs. As predicted in week fourteen, Gado was given a chance in weeks fourteen and fifteen. He did not disappoint fantasy owners. In the first game, the former Packer and Texan scored twice and accumulated 93 total yards. The second saw Gado total 49 yards from scrimmage and another score. He still is behind Jesse Chatman, while Lorenzo Booker sees time in obvious passing downs.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - If Ricky Williams is a Dolphin in the 2008 season; it will be difficult for the former Liberty star to make the team. He is a feel good story, but offers little fantasy potential for fantasy owners. Some will always remember the stretch of games he excelled in Green Bay as a rookie. But, those days are long gone.
Derek Hagan, WR, Miami Dolphins (Week 15)
Accomplishments - Derek Hagan finished the 2007 season as the 80th ranked fantasy wide receiver. He caught half of his 58 pass targets for 373 yards and two scoring grabs. He was wildly inconsistent. In six games, Hagan was held without a catch.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The former third round pick from Arizona State benefited by the trade of Chris Chambers to San Diego. This left just he, Ted Ginn, and Marty Booker at receiver. In week fourteen, the second-year pro caught eight of his fourteen pass targets for 93 yards. This was his best game of the season. The inconsistent quarterback play has hurt all of the Dolphin receivers.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Hagan could be a starter for the Dolphins in the near future. He struggles with inconsistency in dropping balls and getting open. The former Sun Devil is still just 23 years old and has a lot of room to grow and mature into a NFL receiver. He is a good pass catcher to take a chance on for the future. But, with all of the uncertainty at coach and quarterback, 2008 may not be much better than 2007 unless a veteran is brought in to quarterback the franchise.
David Martin, TE, Miami Dolphins (Week 7)
Accomplishments - David Martin was a big signing for former Dolphins General Manager Mueller. Martin disappointed, making the decision look worse the longer the season progressed. He caught 34 of his 50 pass targets for 303 yards and a pair of scoring grabs. This was good enough to be ranked 30th for tight ends.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Martin had a big game in week six with a pair of scoring grabs on only three catches. But, those were the only touchdowns on the year for the former Packer. He only exceeded 3.5 fantasy points once following the big game. There was opportunity with the trade of Chris Chambers to San Diego, but the inconsistent Dolphin passers could not sustain much production for David Martin.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - The former Tennessee Volunteer has had problems with dropped passes this season. David Martin will struggle to make a fantasy impact. He has struggled with injuries throughout his career. The uncertainty at quarterback only leads to further downgrading of the veteran tight end.
Brad Smith, WR, New York Jets (Weeks 3 and 6)
Accomplishments - Brad Smith caught his only two touchdowns of his career in 2007. On the season, Smith caught 32 of his 66 pass targets for 325 yards. For a player with such playmaking ability, it is surprising that he has such a low yards per reception total. This was good for a wide receiver ranking of 82nd in fantasy football.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - The promising college passer turned receiver had opportunity with McCareins not playing well. Justin McCareins dropping too many passers to establish himself in the New York WR3 role. The former Missouri quarterback eclipsed his 2006 reception total by midseason.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Like many former college passers, Smith has taken a while to progress and mature as a receiver. With the age and injury history of Laveranues Coles, Brad Smith may have opportunity in 2008 and beyond. The New York Jet offense will need the playmaking ability of Smith. With Coles on Injured Reserve, the second-year pro caught a career-high five passes in week sixteen.
Darrelle Revis, CB, New York Jets (Week 7)
Accomplishments - The rookie came into the league with high hopes. He did not disappoint. Darrelle Revis accumulated 74 tackles, 13 assists, three interceptions, and 17 passes defended. This was good enough to be the 18th ranked defensive back in all of fantasyland.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Revis came to the Jets with high expectations after being the 14th overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft. The rookie from Pittsburgh has been entrenched as a starting cornerback since week one. He picked up coach Mangini's system, even though he held out. The first year pro has been a consistent producer for fantasy owners throughout the season.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Revis will be starting for the Jets for years to come. He gets to face the Bills and Dolphins twice a year. The rookie should be a top fantasy cornerback for many years. In his first fifteen games of his career, Darrelle Revis only had four games with fewer than nine fantasy points. During this span, the rookie was the twelfth ranked fantasy corner.
Daunte Culpepper, QB, Oakland Raiders (Week 12)
Accomplishments - Culpepper made a big splash when he started after Josh McCown went down, accounting for five total TDs vs. Miami, the team that had let him go in the offseason. Culpepper also had a 344 yard day vs. his old mates in Minnesota, but he was not able fend off McCown and eventually JaMarcus Russell from the starting job in Oakland.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Culpepper is only going to be 31, and we all know that there's room for some mediocre veteran QBs to start in the NFL.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - His continued willingness to run in the red zone and take chances downfield will make him at worst a viable fantasy backup as long as he's a starter.
JaMarcus Russell, QB, Oakland Raiders (Week 14)
Accomplishments - Russell got a sniff of action in a couple of games before starting the final two games of 2007. He went from terrible vs. Jacksonville to serviceable vs. San Diego, while showing off his exceptional arm.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Russell will get many chances to fail as the starter in Oakland, and as a #1 overall, he definitely has the physical gifts to make a fantasy impact.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Russell probably won't be a trustworthy fantasy starter in 2008, but he might surprise, and he got more than enough upside to reward patience.
Michael Bush, RB, Oakland Raiders (Week 10 and 11)
Accomplishments - Bush never made the active roster in 2007, but he did rehab his twice surgically repaired leg to the point of creating some speculation that the Raiders would activate him from the PUP before ending up on IR.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Bush is a considerable physical talent at the RB position, with great speed and moves for such a big back, and he would have gone a lot higher if he had been healthy at the time of the draft.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Justin Fargas is a free agent, and while Dominic Rhodes ran hard over the last two weeks of the year, Bush has to be considered the most gifted RB on the roster. The Raiders line has gelled as one of the better run blocking lines in the league, which makes Bush a high upside, if volatile, investment in dynasty leagues.
Dominic Rhodes, RB, Oakland Raiders (Week 17)
Accomplishments - Rhodes patiently waited after watching LaMont Jordan flourish during his suspension, and then Justin Fargas flourish after Jordan went down, and ran with power and conviction during the last two weeks of the season.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Rhodes could find opportunity in '08 by enduring, just as he did this year, and he knows how to capitalize when given the chance.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Rhodes is under contract next year with the Raiders, and he should get a shot to compete with Michael Bush and Justin Fargas (if re-signed) for the starting job in Oakland next year.
Chris Clemons, DE/OLB, Oakland Raiders (Week 13)
Accomplishments - There was a young undersized Georgia Bulldog DE/OLB tweener that made an impact as part of the Raiders pass rush, but it was not Quentin Moses, who was a surprise training camp cut, but instead Clemons, who had eight sacks on year, and six in his last seven games.
Dynasty Watch Reasons, then and now - Oakland's pass rush unleashed Derrick Burgess so it's always wise to watch any emerging headhunter who wears the silver and black.
Future prospects (2008 and beyond) - Clemons established himself as a viable pass rush specialist and should continue to hold some value in sack heavy leagues.
