Brandon LaFell could undergo surgery on hand.
The Cincinnati Bengals, already reeling from the loss of both Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones to free agency this offseason, have taken another hit to their receiving corps.
Brandon LaFell could possibly undergo non-season ending surgery on his hand after tearing a ligament, according to NFL Media's Mike Garafolo. Garafolo notes that it's possible LaFell opts for rehab and attempts to play through the injury, and Marvin Lewis said he doesn't expect him to miss the season opener, per the team's official site.
The 29-year-old LaFell caught 37 passes for 515 yards in New England last year.
At the moment, Cincinnati is rolling with A.J. Green, rookie Tyler Boyd and Brandon Tate at wide receiver. Pro Bowl tight end Tyler Eifert is still on the team's physically unable to perform list and could also miss the start of the season after offseason ankle surgery.
While this is a run-based offense, the news is obviously concerning for a Bengals team that is hoping to come out of the gates fast in 2016.
This offseason was one of massive change for coach Marvin Lewis -- not only did he lose two of his three best wideouts, but also Hue Jackson, his longtime offensive coordinator.
The only positive might be more emphasis on ensuring that Boyd can be an adequate opening-day starter. LaFell's absence in last week's preseason opener allowed Boyd to get increased playing time. Boyd displayed flashes during his increased opportunity, catching a pass for 40 yards.
The Cincinnati Bengals, already reeling from the loss of both Mohamed Sanu and Marvin Jones to free agency this offseason, have taken another hit to their receiving corps.
Brandon LaFell could possibly undergo non-season ending surgery on his hand after tearing a ligament, according to NFL Media's Mike Garafolo. Garafolo notes that it's possible LaFell opts for rehab and attempts to play through the injury, and Marvin Lewis said he doesn't expect him to miss the season opener, per the team's official site.
The 29-year-old LaFell caught 37 passes for 515 yards in New England last year.
At the moment, Cincinnati is rolling with A.J. Green, rookie Tyler Boyd and Brandon Tate at wide receiver. Pro Bowl tight end Tyler Eifert is still on the team's physically unable to perform list and could also miss the start of the season after offseason ankle surgery.
While this is a run-based offense, the news is obviously concerning for a Bengals team that is hoping to come out of the gates fast in 2016.
This offseason was one of massive change for coach Marvin Lewis -- not only did he lose two of his three best wideouts, but also Hue Jackson, his longtime offensive coordinator.
The only positive might be more emphasis on ensuring that Boyd can be an adequate opening-day starter. LaFell's absence in last week's preseason opener allowed Boyd to get increased playing time. Boyd displayed flashes during his increased opportunity, catching a pass for 40 yards.
Christian Ponder signs with San Francisco 49ers.
The quarterback-needy Niners have found a veteran helper.
Former Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder, who hasn't thrown a pass since 2014, signed a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday, the team announced.
San Francisco needed another body after watching journeyman Thad Lewis go down with a season-ending ACL tear. Colin Kaepernick, meanwhile, is dealing with a "dead arm" and hasn't thrown a pass at practice in six days.
Kaepernick didn't dress in Sunday night's preseason loss to the Texans, leaving presumptive starter Blaine Gabbert, Lewis and rookie Jeff Driskel to deal with Houston's defense.
Ponder isn't about to save the day, but he brings experience with 36 (comprehensively up-and-down) career starts at the pro level. He spent time with the Broncos last season, but was quickly cut free.
Ponder will likely suffer an equal fate if and when Kaepernick returns to action. Barring some sort of wild on-field uprising, Ponder, in 2016, is the dictionary definition of a camp arm.
The quarterback-needy Niners have found a veteran helper.
Former Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder, who hasn't thrown a pass since 2014, signed a one-year deal with the San Francisco 49ers on Tuesday, the team announced.
San Francisco needed another body after watching journeyman Thad Lewis go down with a season-ending ACL tear. Colin Kaepernick, meanwhile, is dealing with a "dead arm" and hasn't thrown a pass at practice in six days.
Kaepernick didn't dress in Sunday night's preseason loss to the Texans, leaving presumptive starter Blaine Gabbert, Lewis and rookie Jeff Driskel to deal with Houston's defense.
Ponder isn't about to save the day, but he brings experience with 36 (comprehensively up-and-down) career starts at the pro level. He spent time with the Broncos last season, but was quickly cut free.
Ponder will likely suffer an equal fate if and when Kaepernick returns to action. Barring some sort of wild on-field uprising, Ponder, in 2016, is the dictionary definition of a camp arm.
Bucs players are making a bee line to the cooling stations here at EverBank practice fields in Jacksonville. There's absolutely no shade out here and temps are about 90 degrees. They don't have cooling stations in Tampa, but it's not this hot.
RB Reggie Bush is back at Bills practice Wednesday after an absence for personal reasons. WR Dezmin Lewis has also returned after a shoulder contusion.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh said a decision has been made on whether QB Joe Flacco will play in second preseason game but declined to announce it.
Jordy Nelson (knee) passes physical, off PUP.
Aaron Rodgers is going to get his top target back on the practice field.
Jordy Nelson passed his physical and came off the physically unable to perform list Wednesday, per the NFL's transaction wire.
The Green Bay Packers receiver started on the PUP list after feeling discomfort in his non-surgically repaired left knee this summer.
After missing the entire 2015 campaign with a torn ACL in his right knee, Nelson can now to rebuild his rapport with Rodgers.
Rodgers is already on the record saying Nelson's knee injury limited the Packers playbook last season. It also forced receivers into unfamiliar positions. If Nelson returns to his pre-ACL level, the rest of the receiving corps shifts into its proper spots. Randall Cobb can return to besting No. 2 corners from the slot. Davante Adams and Ty Montgomery will battle for third receiver snaps.
Even entering last season, Nelson lacked the nationwide respect as a top-10 receiver. His absence in 2015 should now underscore his playmaking ability and influence on the entire Packers' system.
Getting Nelson back on the field is the first step in Green Bay returning to offensive form in 2016.
Aaron Rodgers is going to get his top target back on the practice field.
Jordy Nelson passed his physical and came off the physically unable to perform list Wednesday, per the NFL's transaction wire.
The Green Bay Packers receiver started on the PUP list after feeling discomfort in his non-surgically repaired left knee this summer.
After missing the entire 2015 campaign with a torn ACL in his right knee, Nelson can now to rebuild his rapport with Rodgers.
Rodgers is already on the record saying Nelson's knee injury limited the Packers playbook last season. It also forced receivers into unfamiliar positions. If Nelson returns to his pre-ACL level, the rest of the receiving corps shifts into its proper spots. Randall Cobb can return to besting No. 2 corners from the slot. Davante Adams and Ty Montgomery will battle for third receiver snaps.
Even entering last season, Nelson lacked the nationwide respect as a top-10 receiver. His absence in 2015 should now underscore his playmaking ability and influence on the entire Packers' system.
Getting Nelson back on the field is the first step in Green Bay returning to offensive form in 2016.
Giants kicker Josh Brown suspended one game.
Giants kicker Josh Brown was suspended one game for violating the league's personal conduct policy, the NFL notified the New York Giants on Wednesday.
It's unclear what Brown did to violate the conduct policy.
Brown, who made 30 of his 32 kicks last season, is eligible to participate in preseason practices and games, but won't return to the Giants' active roster until after their tilt with the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 11.
"While I do not agree with the suspension, I will accept it," Brown said in a statement. "I have exhausted the appeals process and have no other options along those lines. I will continue to work hard for this team, and I have tremendous confidence in my teammates and in my ability to move on and contribute to the team."
Added coach Ben McAdoo: "We have been supportive of Josh and will continue to be, but we accept the league's decision."
Giants kicker Josh Brown was suspended one game for violating the league's personal conduct policy, the NFL notified the New York Giants on Wednesday.
It's unclear what Brown did to violate the conduct policy.
Brown, who made 30 of his 32 kicks last season, is eligible to participate in preseason practices and games, but won't return to the Giants' active roster until after their tilt with the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 11.
"While I do not agree with the suspension, I will accept it," Brown said in a statement. "I have exhausted the appeals process and have no other options along those lines. I will continue to work hard for this team, and I have tremendous confidence in my teammates and in my ability to move on and contribute to the team."
Added coach Ben McAdoo: "We have been supportive of Josh and will continue to be, but we accept the league's decision."
Tony Romo will play for Cowboys vs. Dolphins on Friday.
If Dak Prescott plans to double down on last weekend's heroics, he'll need to wait.
Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones announced Wednesday that starting quarterback Tony Romo will play a series or two in Friday's preseason tilt with the Dolphins, per Newy Scruggs of NBC Sports Radio.
Romo didn't dress for Saturday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams, a game that saw the rookie Prescott light up L.A. with a pristine 10-of-12 passing debut that featured a pair of touchdowns throws.
Dallas isn't about to give Romo a heavy workload, so expect to see Prescott and fellow reserve Jameill Showers take over in a hurry.
Jones also told Scruggs that rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott will not play against the Dolphins. The first-round pick is back at practice, but the team will play it safe with his recently tweaked hamstring.
If Dak Prescott plans to double down on last weekend's heroics, he'll need to wait.
Dallas Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones announced Wednesday that starting quarterback Tony Romo will play a series or two in Friday's preseason tilt with the Dolphins, per Newy Scruggs of NBC Sports Radio.
Romo didn't dress for Saturday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams, a game that saw the rookie Prescott light up L.A. with a pristine 10-of-12 passing debut that featured a pair of touchdowns throws.
Dallas isn't about to give Romo a heavy workload, so expect to see Prescott and fellow reserve Jameill Showers take over in a hurry.
Jones also told Scruggs that rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott will not play against the Dolphins. The first-round pick is back at practice, but the team will play it safe with his recently tweaked hamstring.
Jimmy Graham might be out for Seahawks' opener.
The Seahawks are finally ready to admit that tight end Jimmy Graham's rehab might spill into the regular season.
Coach Pete Carroll had a hazy response to questions about Graham's readiness Wednesday, which seemed to dance around the central point: A ruptured patellar tendon is a rough thing to come back from quickly and there is a lot of work involved in doing so.
"We've had no issues at all in the work he's doing on the field," Carroll said, via ESPN.com. "That will continue to increase throughout the next few weeks. Really we're shooting for: Where is he at the start of the season? And we'll evaluate then on how much longer it may take, or he may be ready. We don't know that yet. But he feels good."
Carroll added: "There's some evaluation to be done going into next week, but I don't have any expectations for that right now. We'll just wait and see. We don't have a timetable for this; that he has to meet any schedule at all. We're just working him back, and he's gaining confidence, and it's really important not to have any setbacks. So we're being careful.
"With three really big weeks coming up here, we'll see how he goes. We'll be continuing to progress him more with the action around him and stuff. He's doing fine running routes and catching balls, and he looks good doing all that stuff."
Making a start on opening day matters dearly in the eyes of fans and fantasy owners, but the Seahawks are wise to play the long game here.
With their offense humming on autopilot a year ago and Russell Wilson taking a massive leap forward skill wise, Graham represents the cherry on top and not the mortar holding this thing together.
As tough as it will be to squeeze Graham into a season already in motion, it will be just as difficult for teams to figure out how exactly Seattle will use him. Should Graham be 100 percent healthy at that point, the advantage is clearly in Seattle's favor.
The Seahawks are finally ready to admit that tight end Jimmy Graham's rehab might spill into the regular season.
Coach Pete Carroll had a hazy response to questions about Graham's readiness Wednesday, which seemed to dance around the central point: A ruptured patellar tendon is a rough thing to come back from quickly and there is a lot of work involved in doing so.
"We've had no issues at all in the work he's doing on the field," Carroll said, via ESPN.com. "That will continue to increase throughout the next few weeks. Really we're shooting for: Where is he at the start of the season? And we'll evaluate then on how much longer it may take, or he may be ready. We don't know that yet. But he feels good."
Carroll added: "There's some evaluation to be done going into next week, but I don't have any expectations for that right now. We'll just wait and see. We don't have a timetable for this; that he has to meet any schedule at all. We're just working him back, and he's gaining confidence, and it's really important not to have any setbacks. So we're being careful.
"With three really big weeks coming up here, we'll see how he goes. We'll be continuing to progress him more with the action around him and stuff. He's doing fine running routes and catching balls, and he looks good doing all that stuff."
Making a start on opening day matters dearly in the eyes of fans and fantasy owners, but the Seahawks are wise to play the long game here.
With their offense humming on autopilot a year ago and Russell Wilson taking a massive leap forward skill wise, Graham represents the cherry on top and not the mortar holding this thing together.
As tough as it will be to squeeze Graham into a season already in motion, it will be just as difficult for teams to figure out how exactly Seattle will use him. Should Graham be 100 percent healthy at that point, the advantage is clearly in Seattle's favor.
Steve Smith Sr. passes physical, will practice 'soon'.
The Steve Smith Sr. return tour is starting soon.
The Baltimore Ravens receiver passed a physical Wednesday and will return to the practice field "soon," per the team. The Baltimore Sun reported Smith could practice as early as Monday.
Smith blew his Achilles in Week 8, 2015. Getting back to the practice field any time before the end of preseason is a positive sign for the 16-year pro, but we shouldn't expect him to play in any games prior to Week 1.
The 2015 season was supposed to be Smith's final in an NFL jersey, but after getting injured midway through another Pro Bowl year, the feisty veteran decided to return. Smith has admitted crossing the 1,000-catch barrier is a major goal. He currently sits at 961.
Around The NFL's Chris Wesseling already wrote the definitive case for Steve Smith's Hall of Fame candidacy, but padding the stats could help persuade the fence-sitters.
Last season at 36 years old, Smith averaged more than 95 yards per game over seven contests. Getting the veteran back on the field will be a huge boost for quarterback Joe Flacco, himself coming off an ACL tear.
With rookie Breshad Perriman continuing to miss time, Smith's return is vital for the Ravens' passing game. Smith will lead a receiver corps that includes current starters Mike Wallace and Kamar Aiken.
The Steve Smith Sr. return tour is starting soon.
The Baltimore Ravens receiver passed a physical Wednesday and will return to the practice field "soon," per the team. The Baltimore Sun reported Smith could practice as early as Monday.
Smith blew his Achilles in Week 8, 2015. Getting back to the practice field any time before the end of preseason is a positive sign for the 16-year pro, but we shouldn't expect him to play in any games prior to Week 1.
The 2015 season was supposed to be Smith's final in an NFL jersey, but after getting injured midway through another Pro Bowl year, the feisty veteran decided to return. Smith has admitted crossing the 1,000-catch barrier is a major goal. He currently sits at 961.
Around The NFL's Chris Wesseling already wrote the definitive case for Steve Smith's Hall of Fame candidacy, but padding the stats could help persuade the fence-sitters.
Last season at 36 years old, Smith averaged more than 95 yards per game over seven contests. Getting the veteran back on the field will be a huge boost for quarterback Joe Flacco, himself coming off an ACL tear.
With rookie Breshad Perriman continuing to miss time, Smith's return is vital for the Ravens' passing game. Smith will lead a receiver corps that includes current starters Mike Wallace and Kamar Aiken.
22 days to Kickoff.
[h=1]10-round mock Draft.[/h]
Round 1
1. Todd Gurley, RB, Rams: Gurley didn't start his first NFL game until Week 4, which makes his 1,106 yards, 10 touchdowns and 187.4 fantasy points even more impressive. The Georgia product is a special running back and the lone player at the position that I'd draft ahead of the top three wideouts.
2. Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers: Brown has been the top-scoring wide receiver in fantasy football in each of the last two seasons, making him a virtual lock to be drafted in the top three. In fact, he'll be the No. 1 overall in a lot of standard scoring leagues ... he's a safe selection for owners.
3. Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Giants: OBJ did see his fantasy points per game average dip in his sophomore season, but he still had a tremendous campaign with over 90 catches, 1,305 yards and 12 scores. He has also recorded the second-most fantasy points of any wideout in their first two NFL seasons.
4. Julio Jones, WR, Falcons: Jones busted out in the stat sheets in 2015, posting career bests in catches (136) and yards (1,871) to go along with eight touchdowns. He also recorded more fantasy points than every single running back in the league not named Devonta Freeman. Jones is a true superstar.
5. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: Peterson turned 31 in March, and he's had over 2,300 career regular-season carries at the NFL level. With that said, the typical rules of an older back don't apply to one of the all-time greats. It's difficult to envision a scenario where A.D. isn't a top-10 choice.
6. David Johnson, RB, Cardinals: Johnson started a mere five games as a rookie, but he still finished seventh in fantasy points among running backs. Whether he turns into the next Jeremy Hill remains to be seen (I doubt it), but Johnson will be a high pick based on his upside in Arizona's offense.
7. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Texans: Nuk exploded in his third NFL season, posting career bests in catches (111), yards (1,521), and touchdowns (11). He has also seen his important fantasy totals increase in each of his first three years, and the addition of Brock Osweiler should be a major positive.
8. Lamar Miller, RB, Texans: Miller finished sixth in fantasy points among runners last season, and he did it despite carrying the football fewer than 200 times. His move to the Texans makes him an even more valuable asset, as he's now the lead back in an offense that wants to run the ball a lot.
9. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys: Is taking a rookie this high a risk? Sure, but it's hard not to expect greatness from Elliott. He's a three-down runner with massive upside in a Dallas offense that made DeMarco Murray a fantasy star and turned Darren McFadden back into a productive fantasy runner.
10. Dez Bryant, WR, Cowboys: Forget about what happened to Bryant last season ... he was never 100 percent and had to catch passes from the likes of Kellen Moore. Heading into 2015, Bryant had put up 88 or more catches, 1,200-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns in his previous three campaigns.
1. Todd Gurley, RB, Rams: Gurley didn't start his first NFL game until Week 4, which makes his 1,106 yards, 10 touchdowns and 187.4 fantasy points even more impressive. The Georgia product is a special running back and the lone player at the position that I'd draft ahead of the top three wideouts.
2. Antonio Brown, WR, Steelers: Brown has been the top-scoring wide receiver in fantasy football in each of the last two seasons, making him a virtual lock to be drafted in the top three. In fact, he'll be the No. 1 overall in a lot of standard scoring leagues ... he's a safe selection for owners.
3. Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Giants: OBJ did see his fantasy points per game average dip in his sophomore season, but he still had a tremendous campaign with over 90 catches, 1,305 yards and 12 scores. He has also recorded the second-most fantasy points of any wideout in their first two NFL seasons.
4. Julio Jones, WR, Falcons: Jones busted out in the stat sheets in 2015, posting career bests in catches (136) and yards (1,871) to go along with eight touchdowns. He also recorded more fantasy points than every single running back in the league not named Devonta Freeman. Jones is a true superstar.
5. Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings: Peterson turned 31 in March, and he's had over 2,300 career regular-season carries at the NFL level. With that said, the typical rules of an older back don't apply to one of the all-time greats. It's difficult to envision a scenario where A.D. isn't a top-10 choice.
6. David Johnson, RB, Cardinals: Johnson started a mere five games as a rookie, but he still finished seventh in fantasy points among running backs. Whether he turns into the next Jeremy Hill remains to be seen (I doubt it), but Johnson will be a high pick based on his upside in Arizona's offense.
7. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Texans: Nuk exploded in his third NFL season, posting career bests in catches (111), yards (1,521), and touchdowns (11). He has also seen his important fantasy totals increase in each of his first three years, and the addition of Brock Osweiler should be a major positive.
8. Lamar Miller, RB, Texans: Miller finished sixth in fantasy points among runners last season, and he did it despite carrying the football fewer than 200 times. His move to the Texans makes him an even more valuable asset, as he's now the lead back in an offense that wants to run the ball a lot.
9. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Cowboys: Is taking a rookie this high a risk? Sure, but it's hard not to expect greatness from Elliott. He's a three-down runner with massive upside in a Dallas offense that made DeMarco Murray a fantasy star and turned Darren McFadden back into a productive fantasy runner.
10. Dez Bryant, WR, Cowboys: Forget about what happened to Bryant last season ... he was never 100 percent and had to catch passes from the likes of Kellen Moore. Heading into 2015, Bryant had put up 88 or more catches, 1,200-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns in his previous three campaigns.
Round 2
11. Le'Veon Bell, RB, Steelers: Bell was the No. 1 overall pick in the last mock I did, but this four-game suspension looms over his head like a dark cloud. Still, I would argue that 12 games of Bell's high-octane production are well worth a second-round selection. Keep close tabs on his appeal.
12. A.J. Green, WR, Bengals: Green had an up and down 2015 campaign, posting fewer than eight fantasy points seven times. Regardless, he still finished with 1,200-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns. Green should see more targets with Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu both out of the pass attack, too.
113. Mark Ingram, RB, Saints: I like everything about Ingram from a statistical perspective, even more so after he caught 50 balls last season. The one concern is the fact that he has never started more than 10 games in a single season due to injuries. That's keeping him from a first-round label.
14. Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots: Gronkowski is far and away the most valuable tight end in the world of fantasy football, and he's the lone player at his position who's worth a top-30 selection. The veteran has recorded 1,100-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns in each of his last two seasons.
15. Brandon Marshall, WR, Jets: Marshall went nuts in the stat sheets in his first season with Gang Green, posting 1,502 yards with 14 touchdowns while finishing third in fantasy points at wideout. With Ryan Fitzpatrick back in the mix, fantasy fans can rest assured that Marshall should thrive again.
16. Alshon Jeffery, WR, Bears: Jeffery suffered through an injury-plagued 2015 campaign that saw him miss seven games and post disappointing numbers. Still, he averaged 89.6 yards in the nine contests he played and would have projected to record almost 190 fantasy points over a full 16-game campaign.
17. Devonta Freeman, RB, Falcons: Freeman came out of nowhere to lead all runners in fantasy points last season. He also had a historic four-game stretch where he found the end zone nine times and put up 25-plus points in each contest. There is an elevated bust risk for Freeman as a result, however.
18. Jamaal Charles, RB, Chiefs: Charles looked good before blowing out his knee last season, and the fact that he's had multiple ACL tears since 2011 is a cause for some concern. Still, his rehab has gone well and there's no indication Charles won't be the offensive centerpiece in Kansas City again.
19. LeSean McCoy, RB, Bills: McCoy's first season in Buffalo was a modest one overall, as he averaged 12 fantasy points per game but missed four contests due to injuries. He also lost important work to Karlos Williams, who scored nine times. Still, McCoy remains well worth a second-round pick.
20. Allen Robinson, WR, Jaguars: Robinson was one of last season's biggest breakout candidates, scoring 10-plus points in 12 games with at least one score in 10 contests. You should expect some regression in the number of touchdowns he scores, but Robinson will be difficult to pass on at this point.
11. Le'Veon Bell, RB, Steelers: Bell was the No. 1 overall pick in the last mock I did, but this four-game suspension looms over his head like a dark cloud. Still, I would argue that 12 games of Bell's high-octane production are well worth a second-round selection. Keep close tabs on his appeal.
12. A.J. Green, WR, Bengals: Green had an up and down 2015 campaign, posting fewer than eight fantasy points seven times. Regardless, he still finished with 1,200-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns. Green should see more targets with Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu both out of the pass attack, too.
113. Mark Ingram, RB, Saints: I like everything about Ingram from a statistical perspective, even more so after he caught 50 balls last season. The one concern is the fact that he has never started more than 10 games in a single season due to injuries. That's keeping him from a first-round label.
14. Rob Gronkowski, TE, Patriots: Gronkowski is far and away the most valuable tight end in the world of fantasy football, and he's the lone player at his position who's worth a top-30 selection. The veteran has recorded 1,100-plus yards and double-digit touchdowns in each of his last two seasons.
15. Brandon Marshall, WR, Jets: Marshall went nuts in the stat sheets in his first season with Gang Green, posting 1,502 yards with 14 touchdowns while finishing third in fantasy points at wideout. With Ryan Fitzpatrick back in the mix, fantasy fans can rest assured that Marshall should thrive again.
16. Alshon Jeffery, WR, Bears: Jeffery suffered through an injury-plagued 2015 campaign that saw him miss seven games and post disappointing numbers. Still, he averaged 89.6 yards in the nine contests he played and would have projected to record almost 190 fantasy points over a full 16-game campaign.
17. Devonta Freeman, RB, Falcons: Freeman came out of nowhere to lead all runners in fantasy points last season. He also had a historic four-game stretch where he found the end zone nine times and put up 25-plus points in each contest. There is an elevated bust risk for Freeman as a result, however.
18. Jamaal Charles, RB, Chiefs: Charles looked good before blowing out his knee last season, and the fact that he's had multiple ACL tears since 2011 is a cause for some concern. Still, his rehab has gone well and there's no indication Charles won't be the offensive centerpiece in Kansas City again.
19. LeSean McCoy, RB, Bills: McCoy's first season in Buffalo was a modest one overall, as he averaged 12 fantasy points per game but missed four contests due to injuries. He also lost important work to Karlos Williams, who scored nine times. Still, McCoy remains well worth a second-round pick.
20. Allen Robinson, WR, Jaguars: Robinson was one of last season's biggest breakout candidates, scoring 10-plus points in 12 games with at least one score in 10 contests. You should expect some regression in the number of touchdowns he scores, but Robinson will be difficult to pass on at this point.
Round 3
21. Doug Martin, RB, Buccaneers: I admit to being a bit worried about Martin, who has not been the most durable or reliable fantasy running back in his four seasons at the NFL level. Still, he's about as close to a featured back as you will see in Tampa Bay, and he's just 27-years-old.
22. Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers: Nelson blew out his knee during the 2015 preseason, so he'll have had more than enough time to rehab and recover heading into this season. Heading into his age-31 campaign and with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, Nelson has to be considered a borderline No. 1 fantasy wideout.
23. Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers: Evans dropped too many passes during his sophomore season, resulting in a major decline in his touchdown catches and fantasy points. Still, he's a good bet to improve on his 2015 fantasy totals and re-emerge into a more reliable option for the Bucs and fantasy fans alike.
24. Keenan Allen, WR, Chargers: Allen was on pace to put up 134 catches and 1,400-plus yards last season before he suffered a lacerated kidney and was forced to miss the final eight contests. He's back at 100 percent and will make some real waves in the stat sheets, both in standard and PPR formats.
25. Sammy Watkins, WR, Bills: Watkins is one of my favorite breakout candidates for this season, so there's a good chance he'll be moving up in future mock drafts. Of course, that all depends on the health of his foot (all reports have been very positive so far). Watkins will be a beast at 100 percent.
26. Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers: Lacy might have been the biggest disappointment in fantasy football last season, but he's still young and back in good shape. He's also entering a contract year, so he should be motivated to leave the past (and the weight) behind him. He could end up being a real bargain.
27. Brandin Cooks, WR, Saints: Despite a slow start in the stat sheets, Cooks still put up nice totals for the Saints last season. While he's still not in the No. 1 wide receiver conversation, the Oregon State product would look great as a No. 2 wideout on the rosters of most fantasy football owners.
28. C.J. Anderson, RB, Broncos: While he started off slow, Anderson averaged almost 10 fantasy points per game in the second half of last season. Even with Ronnie Hillman and Devontae Booker in the mix, he still projects as the lead running back for a Broncos offense that will run the ball often.
29. Amari Cooper, WR, Raiders: Cooper ranked outside of the top 20 among fantasy wideouts in 2015, but the sky's the limit for this uber-talented receiver. In fact, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Alabama product push for top-10 status at his position. The Raiders offense has major potential.
30. Cam Newton, QB, Panthers: The No. 1 fantasy player in 2015 drafted in ... Round 3? Yessir. The quarterback position is deep, and chances are pretty good that Newton will see a 40-60 point decline in production in 2016. To be honest, I wouldn't draft him here either .... but I have to be realistic.
21. Doug Martin, RB, Buccaneers: I admit to being a bit worried about Martin, who has not been the most durable or reliable fantasy running back in his four seasons at the NFL level. Still, he's about as close to a featured back as you will see in Tampa Bay, and he's just 27-years-old.
22. Jordy Nelson, WR, Packers: Nelson blew out his knee during the 2015 preseason, so he'll have had more than enough time to rehab and recover heading into this season. Heading into his age-31 campaign and with Aaron Rodgers at the helm, Nelson has to be considered a borderline No. 1 fantasy wideout.
23. Mike Evans, WR, Buccaneers: Evans dropped too many passes during his sophomore season, resulting in a major decline in his touchdown catches and fantasy points. Still, he's a good bet to improve on his 2015 fantasy totals and re-emerge into a more reliable option for the Bucs and fantasy fans alike.
24. Keenan Allen, WR, Chargers: Allen was on pace to put up 134 catches and 1,400-plus yards last season before he suffered a lacerated kidney and was forced to miss the final eight contests. He's back at 100 percent and will make some real waves in the stat sheets, both in standard and PPR formats.
25. Sammy Watkins, WR, Bills: Watkins is one of my favorite breakout candidates for this season, so there's a good chance he'll be moving up in future mock drafts. Of course, that all depends on the health of his foot (all reports have been very positive so far). Watkins will be a beast at 100 percent.
26. Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers: Lacy might have been the biggest disappointment in fantasy football last season, but he's still young and back in good shape. He's also entering a contract year, so he should be motivated to leave the past (and the weight) behind him. He could end up being a real bargain.
27. Brandin Cooks, WR, Saints: Despite a slow start in the stat sheets, Cooks still put up nice totals for the Saints last season. While he's still not in the No. 1 wide receiver conversation, the Oregon State product would look great as a No. 2 wideout on the rosters of most fantasy football owners.
28. C.J. Anderson, RB, Broncos: While he started off slow, Anderson averaged almost 10 fantasy points per game in the second half of last season. Even with Ronnie Hillman and Devontae Booker in the mix, he still projects as the lead running back for a Broncos offense that will run the ball often.
29. Amari Cooper, WR, Raiders: Cooper ranked outside of the top 20 among fantasy wideouts in 2015, but the sky's the limit for this uber-talented receiver. In fact, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Alabama product push for top-10 status at his position. The Raiders offense has major potential.
30. Cam Newton, QB, Panthers: The No. 1 fantasy player in 2015 drafted in ... Round 3? Yessir. The quarterback position is deep, and chances are pretty good that Newton will see a 40-60 point decline in production in 2016. To be honest, I wouldn't draft him here either .... but I have to be realistic.
Round 4
31. Carlos Hyde, RB, 49ers: Hyde is a serious bounce-back candidate in an offense that will lean on the run under new coach Chip Kelly. He could be a bargain, as long as he avoids injuries.
32. Thomas Rawls, RB, Seahawks: Rawls averaged almost 16 fantasy points per game last season in the absence of Marshawn Lynch, but questions about his ankle will limit his upside for 2016.
33. T.Y. Hilton, WR, Colts: Hilton isn't going to become an elite fantasy wideout like Jones or Beckham Jr., but the return of Andrew Luck should help his stock. He could be a real bargain.
34. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers: Rodgers will go much higher in most drafts, but I don't think he's worth a top-30 pick at such a deep position. He'll be better than he was in 2015, though.
35. Demaryius Thomas, WR, Broncos: Thomas won't be a true No. 1 fantasy wideout with Mark Sanchez now under center, but he can be a solid, high-end No. 2 option at this point in the draft.
36. Matt Forte, RB, Jets: Forte should remain a featured back in New York, but he is entering his age-30 season and should be seen as a No. 2 in fantasy drafts as opposed to a viable No. 1.
37. Ryan Mathews, RB, Eagles: The Eagles didn't add a big-name running back in the NFL draft, so Mathews is once again on the radar as a viable No. 2 fantasy back in most standard leagues.
38. Dion Lewis, RB, Patriots: Lewis should be monitored in his return from a torn ACL, but he's projected to be fine for the start of the regular season. He could be a real draft bargain.
39. Julian Edelman, WR, Patriots: Edelman has missed 16 contests over the last four seasons due to injuries, and he's coming off two foot surgeries. There's some bust concern as a result.
40. Jarvis Landry, WR, Dolphins: Landry will be more valuable in PPR formats, but his speed and skill set make him a no-brainer as a No. 2 fantasy wide receiver in all fantasy formats.
31. Carlos Hyde, RB, 49ers: Hyde is a serious bounce-back candidate in an offense that will lean on the run under new coach Chip Kelly. He could be a bargain, as long as he avoids injuries.
32. Thomas Rawls, RB, Seahawks: Rawls averaged almost 16 fantasy points per game last season in the absence of Marshawn Lynch, but questions about his ankle will limit his upside for 2016.
33. T.Y. Hilton, WR, Colts: Hilton isn't going to become an elite fantasy wideout like Jones or Beckham Jr., but the return of Andrew Luck should help his stock. He could be a real bargain.
34. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers: Rodgers will go much higher in most drafts, but I don't think he's worth a top-30 pick at such a deep position. He'll be better than he was in 2015, though.
35. Demaryius Thomas, WR, Broncos: Thomas won't be a true No. 1 fantasy wideout with Mark Sanchez now under center, but he can be a solid, high-end No. 2 option at this point in the draft.
36. Matt Forte, RB, Jets: Forte should remain a featured back in New York, but he is entering his age-30 season and should be seen as a No. 2 in fantasy drafts as opposed to a viable No. 1.
37. Ryan Mathews, RB, Eagles: The Eagles didn't add a big-name running back in the NFL draft, so Mathews is once again on the radar as a viable No. 2 fantasy back in most standard leagues.
38. Dion Lewis, RB, Patriots: Lewis should be monitored in his return from a torn ACL, but he's projected to be fine for the start of the regular season. He could be a real draft bargain.
39. Julian Edelman, WR, Patriots: Edelman has missed 16 contests over the last four seasons due to injuries, and he's coming off two foot surgeries. There's some bust concern as a result.
40. Jarvis Landry, WR, Dolphins: Landry will be more valuable in PPR formats, but his speed and skill set make him a no-brainer as a No. 2 fantasy wide receiver in all fantasy formats.
[h=3]Round 5[/h] 41. Greg Olsen, TE, Panthers: Olsen has recorded 1,000-plus yards in two straight seasons and scored no fewer than five touchdowns in eight consecutive seasons. Call him Mr. Consistent.
42. Latavius Murray, RB, Raiders: Murray was inconsistent but still finished in the top 10 in fantasy points among runners last season, and there's no real threat to his role in Oakland.
43. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers: Stewart finished 16th in fantasy points among runners in 2015, and he's likely to remain the top running back in Carolina entering his age-29 campaign.
44. Jeremy Hill, RB, Bengals: Hill's yardage totals declined last season compared to his rookie campaign, but he still scored 11 touchdowns. He's now on the low-end RB2/flex starter radar.
45. DeMarco Murray, RB, Titans: Murray's value took a massive blow when the Titans selected Derrick Henry in Round 2 of the NFL draft, but he's still worth a top-50 overall draft pick.
46. Matt Jones, Redskins: Jones doesn't have a lot of competition for the starting role in Washington, so he's firmly on the radar as a No. 2 fantasy runner or flex starter in all leagues.
47. Eric Decker, WR, Jets With Fitzpatrick back under center for the Jets, fantasy owners should expect another productive and consistent season from the underrated Decker.
48. Jordan Reed, TE, Redskins: Reed might not score another 11 touchdowns, but he proved to be a massive playmaker last season when he's on the field. He does need to avoid injuries.
49. Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks Wilson has been a top-10 fantasy quarterback in every year of his NFL career, and his passing numbers last season have his stock on the rise for 2016.
50. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Chiefs: Maclin was inconsistent at times last season, but he still finished with better than 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns in his first season in Kansas City.
42. Latavius Murray, RB, Raiders: Murray was inconsistent but still finished in the top 10 in fantasy points among runners last season, and there's no real threat to his role in Oakland.
43. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers: Stewart finished 16th in fantasy points among runners in 2015, and he's likely to remain the top running back in Carolina entering his age-29 campaign.
44. Jeremy Hill, RB, Bengals: Hill's yardage totals declined last season compared to his rookie campaign, but he still scored 11 touchdowns. He's now on the low-end RB2/flex starter radar.
45. DeMarco Murray, RB, Titans: Murray's value took a massive blow when the Titans selected Derrick Henry in Round 2 of the NFL draft, but he's still worth a top-50 overall draft pick.
46. Matt Jones, Redskins: Jones doesn't have a lot of competition for the starting role in Washington, so he's firmly on the radar as a No. 2 fantasy runner or flex starter in all leagues.
47. Eric Decker, WR, Jets With Fitzpatrick back under center for the Jets, fantasy owners should expect another productive and consistent season from the underrated Decker.
48. Jordan Reed, TE, Redskins: Reed might not score another 11 touchdowns, but he proved to be a massive playmaker last season when he's on the field. He does need to avoid injuries.
49. Russell Wilson, QB, Seahawks Wilson has been a top-10 fantasy quarterback in every year of his NFL career, and his passing numbers last season have his stock on the rise for 2016.
50. Jeremy Maclin, WR, Chiefs: Maclin was inconsistent at times last season, but he still finished with better than 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns in his first season in Kansas City.
