TOP 10 2004 NFL ROOKIES
by Scott Pagel
It’s not too often a rookie comes into the National Football League and has a huge impact right away. But, fantasy-wise, rookies can be key parts of your team, especially if you draft them at the right times and at the same time not sacrifice more consistent players.
Rookies can fill in your roster as back-ups for injuries, or, by about halfway through the season, they can even be permanent starters in your lineup. The key is getting the right ones. But, perhaps more importantly, they can be used in trades to get you that key player for a playoff run, especially in keep leagues.
Here’s a list of rookies you may consider for your draft day:
1. Roy Williams, WR, and Kevin Jones, RB, Detroit – The success of Jones and Williams could have lot to do with how the other performs. Jones seems to be the only rookie running back that will slide into a starting roll now that Eddie George landed in Dallas. There are a couple of things to think about when it comes to Williams – same goes with any of the receivers mentioned below - who does he have around him and who is getting him the ball. Williams has a decent compliment in Charles Rogers. Unfortunately, Rogers was hurt most of last season, but did show flashes. If Rogers proves to be a threat, Williams could really benefit. The same can be said about the success of Jones. Tai Streets will step in and get more time and passes should either struggle. Quarterback Joey Harrington finally has something to work with, and everyone mentioned above, could improve if they work together.
2. Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Arizona – By now I’m sure you’re aware of the relationship between head coach Dennis Green and Fitzgerald. It’s pretty safe bet that Fitzgerald will get his share of playing time, and as of now looks to be the number two receiver. It just so happens Anquan Boldin is coming off an unbelievable season and Bryant Johnson also proved to be a threat, so, Fitzgerald is in good company at the wideout position. Quarterback Josh McCown still has some proving to do but Fitzgerald could be an okay number two option for your fantasy team, or better, a number three in deeper leagues.
3. Kellen Winslow, TE, Cleveland – Just the lone fact that tight end isn’t a very deep position makes Winslow an impact rookie. Already Winslow is arguably the fourth best tight end behind Tony Gonzalez, Jeremy Shockey and Todd Heap. Winslow has a decent supporting cast around him in wide receivers Dennis Northcutt, Andre Davis and Quincy Morgan. Jeff Garcia’s arm and legs could buy time for all his receivers to get open, which only helps Winslow’s value. Throw in a running game that isn’t very good and Winslow could be a nice pick-up.
4. Stephen Jackson, RB, St. Louis – Marshall Faulk hasn’t played in all 16 games since 1999. He’s missed at least two games every year since then, including five last year. So if you’re a Faulk owner, drafting Jackson is a must. If you’re not a Faulk owner, drafting Jackson would still be a pretty clever move that could be huge – huge for you and huge in keeping him away from another owner should Faulk go down. Even if Jackson doesn’t play this year, he will have a big impact on drafts. But, most seem to think Jackson can put up Faulk-like numbers if given the chance, and that chance could even come next season. So when it comes time to draft your third running back, consider Jackson. He’s an investment you can keep or trade.
5. Julius Jones, RB, Dallas – With the departure of Troy Hambrick, it appeared Jones would be the main back for the Cowboys, at least to start the season. That, however, all changed with the signing of Eddie George. Nevertheless, Jones will still have some impact as a fantasy back, but not what it could have been. Your running game still needs a solid passing attack and Dallas doesn’t have that, at least based on last season. Don’t be surprised if later in the year Jones’ younger, spry legs get the nod over a beat up George.
6. Eli Manning, QB, NY Giants – With not a very good offensive line and an injury prone quarterback in Kurt Warner ahead of him on the depth chart, Manning could find himself under center a lot sooner than most would like. Manning isn’t worth an early pick, but if he’s there in later rounds why not grab him? Because he’s at least a year away, you may find some rookie-happy, rebuilding owner (or a Giants fan) ready to give up what you need for a stretch run. Manning does have some tools to work with should he get his chance. Amani Toomer and Ike Hilliard are worthy receivers as is tight end Jeremy Shockey and all could help Manning produce.
7. Tatum Bell, RB, Denver – Probably not even Mike Shanahan knows who will run the ball in Denver towards the middle or the end of the season. Early on, Quentin Griffin seemed to be a good bet, but as of late Bell has been getting more press. Bell could make a good end-of-the-draft selection, because, if he develops into Denver’s starting back, you’ll look like a genius. But, Bell will still battle for playing time with Griffin and veteran Garrison Hearst. Most likely none of those three backs will do you much good at the start of the season until one begins to stand out.
8. Philip Rivers, QB, San Diego – Rivers may get more playing time than Eli Manning this season, but he doesn’t have nearly the same talent Manning has to work with. Unfortunately, that means not much fantasy value. However, when it becomes mop-up time, Rivers may have a decent game or two trying to play catch up. If you had plans of starting Rivers week-in and week-out, find a new hobby.
9. Rashaun Woods, WR, San Francisco – With Terrell Owens, Tai Streets and Jeff Garcia gone, Woods isn’t exactly stepping into a favorable situation. The good news is, though, he’ll probably give Curtis Conway a run as the team’s number one receiver. Tim Rattay is a big question mark at quarterback and his ability to get Woods the ball could be the only thing holding this receiver back. Kevin Barlow should give the 49ers a good running attack and that can set up the pass.
10. Reggie Williams, WR, Jacksonville – Word out of Jacksonville is Byron Leftwich has looked good so far, as well as shown a good chemistry with the receivers. While Jimmy Smith will still be the go-to guy, Williams could get some looks as well. His impact most likely won’t be anything to write home about, but in the right match ups, could make a good fill-in.
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