Wednesday 30 July 2014
2014: A Look At The Schedule
The Executive Director of the League Of Champions Coaches Association, Ollie Burdett, drops by along with The Dream Team head coach Viv Nathwani to thumb over the schedule for the upcoming season with Commissioner Stubbs, just one week before the keeper deadline.
Tag Predictions: Bear Necessities & IKNAN
With the off season being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be
fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged,
B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring preseason
injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I
would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing
these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Bear Necessities
Vincent Jackson (5th): Jackson has been a solid member of Bear Necessities for the past two seasons, and this isn't going to change in 2014. A high WR2 at the cost of a 5th round pick, Jackson will be returning to bear town in 2014.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Percy Harvin (6th*): Say what you will about Percy Harvin, but when he is on the field, he is magical. When being the operative word in that sentence. GM Stubbs was fed up with Alfred Morris, so they shipped him off to Gridiron Gang for Harvin. It wouldn't look good trading a player away in the off season, and not tagging the player you've receiver. They just better hope Harvin stays healthy.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Vernon Davis (3rd): Vernon Davis is in the very good tier of TE's, not quite cracking the elite. Still, he is VERY GOOD. This coach likes Davis, and he was a good player for him last season. Personally, I don't think this tag represents the best value for the team, but I'm not here to debate, I'm here to predict the tags, and more likely than not he will be a Bear next season.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Ryan Matthews (6th*): GM Stubbs took a flyer on Matthews late on in the draft, and it paid off. He turned into the bell cow he was always pegged to be. He lost some work to Woodhead, but churned out a very good season. However, he too has had the injury bug during his career, and is no lock to post the numbers he did last year.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Arian Foster (1st): This guy was once a fantastic player for Bear Necessities. Injuries have changed that. This coach has lost faith in Foster, despite the potential he brings. The coach would like to have this guy back, but not at a cost of a 1st round pick. He'll be playing elsewhere next season.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Vincent Jackson (5th), Percy Harvin (6th*), Vernon Davis (3rd)
What I would do: Vincent Jackson (5th), Vernon Davis (3rd), Ben Tate (6th*)
IKNAN
Matt Forte (1st): GM Sherwood brought back Forte last season, and it paid big dividends. He is very loyal to players that serve him well, and holds a grudge when they don't. Forte should be back in IKNAN-Ville next year, despite the lofty 1st round pick needed.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Doug Martin (5th): After an excellent rookie season, GM Sherwood brought back Doug Martin for his sophomore campaign, but it was cut short by injury. We know what he is capable of, and he should be the star of the show for the Bucs next season, so that should translate to him being the star of IKNAN's backfield too.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Giovani Bernard (6th*): GM Sherwood managed to scoop up Bernard very late on in the draft last season, which turned out to be an absolute bargain pick. On any other team, he would easily be a tag, but when that team also has Martin, Gordon and Forte, well....that makes it a little bit harder. Though he puts up good numbers, he doesn't project as a workhorse back like Forte and Martin.
Tag likelihood: It’s probably going to happen
Larry Fitzgerald (1st): Everybody is well aware of this coach’s obsession with this guy, and who can blame him? However, this year is the year where common sense outweighs obsession for Coach Sherwood. Albeit a good player, he just isn't worth a first round pick, especially when you have to choose between him and Forte. I wouldn't count this coach changing his mind, but if logic doesn't fail him, Fitzgerald will be released (and likely drafted by him).
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Antonio Brown (4th): Brown had a great campaign last year, and Coach Sherwood was a prime benefactor of it. He is the clear cut no.1 receiver on a team that should be better than last year. Despite this, he just isn't as valuable as the guys above him here. He is a very good player, but he isn't on the level of the guys already mentioned on this list.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Matt Forte (1st), Doug Martin (5th), Giovani Bernard (6th*)
What I would do: Doug Martin (5th), Josh Gordon (7th*), Giovani Bernard (6th*)
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Bear Necessities
Vincent Jackson (5th): Jackson has been a solid member of Bear Necessities for the past two seasons, and this isn't going to change in 2014. A high WR2 at the cost of a 5th round pick, Jackson will be returning to bear town in 2014.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Percy Harvin (6th*): Say what you will about Percy Harvin, but when he is on the field, he is magical. When being the operative word in that sentence. GM Stubbs was fed up with Alfred Morris, so they shipped him off to Gridiron Gang for Harvin. It wouldn't look good trading a player away in the off season, and not tagging the player you've receiver. They just better hope Harvin stays healthy.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Vernon Davis (3rd): Vernon Davis is in the very good tier of TE's, not quite cracking the elite. Still, he is VERY GOOD. This coach likes Davis, and he was a good player for him last season. Personally, I don't think this tag represents the best value for the team, but I'm not here to debate, I'm here to predict the tags, and more likely than not he will be a Bear next season.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Ryan Matthews (6th*): GM Stubbs took a flyer on Matthews late on in the draft, and it paid off. He turned into the bell cow he was always pegged to be. He lost some work to Woodhead, but churned out a very good season. However, he too has had the injury bug during his career, and is no lock to post the numbers he did last year.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Arian Foster (1st): This guy was once a fantastic player for Bear Necessities. Injuries have changed that. This coach has lost faith in Foster, despite the potential he brings. The coach would like to have this guy back, but not at a cost of a 1st round pick. He'll be playing elsewhere next season.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Vincent Jackson (5th), Percy Harvin (6th*), Vernon Davis (3rd)
What I would do: Vincent Jackson (5th), Vernon Davis (3rd), Ben Tate (6th*)
IKNAN
Matt Forte (1st): GM Sherwood brought back Forte last season, and it paid big dividends. He is very loyal to players that serve him well, and holds a grudge when they don't. Forte should be back in IKNAN-Ville next year, despite the lofty 1st round pick needed.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Doug Martin (5th): After an excellent rookie season, GM Sherwood brought back Doug Martin for his sophomore campaign, but it was cut short by injury. We know what he is capable of, and he should be the star of the show for the Bucs next season, so that should translate to him being the star of IKNAN's backfield too.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Giovani Bernard (6th*): GM Sherwood managed to scoop up Bernard very late on in the draft last season, which turned out to be an absolute bargain pick. On any other team, he would easily be a tag, but when that team also has Martin, Gordon and Forte, well....that makes it a little bit harder. Though he puts up good numbers, he doesn't project as a workhorse back like Forte and Martin.
Tag likelihood: It’s probably going to happen
Larry Fitzgerald (1st): Everybody is well aware of this coach’s obsession with this guy, and who can blame him? However, this year is the year where common sense outweighs obsession for Coach Sherwood. Albeit a good player, he just isn't worth a first round pick, especially when you have to choose between him and Forte. I wouldn't count this coach changing his mind, but if logic doesn't fail him, Fitzgerald will be released (and likely drafted by him).
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Antonio Brown (4th): Brown had a great campaign last year, and Coach Sherwood was a prime benefactor of it. He is the clear cut no.1 receiver on a team that should be better than last year. Despite this, he just isn't as valuable as the guys above him here. He is a very good player, but he isn't on the level of the guys already mentioned on this list.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Matt Forte (1st), Doug Martin (5th), Giovani Bernard (6th*)
What I would do: Doug Martin (5th), Josh Gordon (7th*), Giovani Bernard (6th*)
Sunday 27 July 2014
Tag Predictions: Burdettinators
League Story
With the offseason being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged, B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring pre-season injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Burdettinators
LeSean McCoy (1st): After a somewhat disappointing 2012, GM Burdett took a chance bringing back McCoy on a 1st round tag in 2013, and boy did it pay off. At only 25, in a point generating system, this guy should arguably be worth two 1st round picks.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Eddie Lacy (6th*): A good move late on in the draft turned into great fantasy performance and prime tag potential. Eddie Lacy plays on a team with one of the best QB's to ever play, so he is going to get a lot of opportunities. One of the few work horse backs remaining, this is fantastic value.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Julius Thomas (7th*): One of the very good TE's in the league, it's hard to see a scenario where Thomas isn't tagged. You get one of the very good TE's and you instantly have an advantage over several other teams in the league. This team is riddled with stars, so although it would be surprising if Thomas is released, I can see it happening.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Dez Bryant (3rd): It's not hard to connect the dots here. A dominant fantasy receiver and a Cowboys fan. On paper, this makes perfect sense. But don't forget, Gordon, Thomas, McCoy and Lacy are on that same piece of paper, all come cheaper than Bryant (sans McCoy). They would really like to bring him back.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Peyton Manning (5th): Jeez. How many stars does this team want? A record breaking season by this QB paved the way to Coach Burdett hoisting the Stubbs trophy. They love having him on the team, but QB production is a lot more easily replaced than any other position, so I think they let him go.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
C.J. Spiller (6th): The year that Burdettinators doesn't keep C.J. Spiller, is the year that he finally lives up to expectations. This player has so much potential, but Burdettinators don't need to hang their hat on potential when they've got production all through the roster. If this team wasn't so loaded this would make sense, but Spiller doesn't come close on this team.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: LeSean McCoy (1st), Eddie Lacy (6th*), Dez Bryant (3rd)
What I would do: LeSean McCoy (1st), Eddie Lacy (6th*), Dez Bryant (3rd)
With the offseason being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged, B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring pre-season injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Burdettinators
LeSean McCoy (1st): After a somewhat disappointing 2012, GM Burdett took a chance bringing back McCoy on a 1st round tag in 2013, and boy did it pay off. At only 25, in a point generating system, this guy should arguably be worth two 1st round picks.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Eddie Lacy (6th*): A good move late on in the draft turned into great fantasy performance and prime tag potential. Eddie Lacy plays on a team with one of the best QB's to ever play, so he is going to get a lot of opportunities. One of the few work horse backs remaining, this is fantastic value.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Julius Thomas (7th*): One of the very good TE's in the league, it's hard to see a scenario where Thomas isn't tagged. You get one of the very good TE's and you instantly have an advantage over several other teams in the league. This team is riddled with stars, so although it would be surprising if Thomas is released, I can see it happening.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Dez Bryant (3rd): It's not hard to connect the dots here. A dominant fantasy receiver and a Cowboys fan. On paper, this makes perfect sense. But don't forget, Gordon, Thomas, McCoy and Lacy are on that same piece of paper, all come cheaper than Bryant (sans McCoy). They would really like to bring him back.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Peyton Manning (5th): Jeez. How many stars does this team want? A record breaking season by this QB paved the way to Coach Burdett hoisting the Stubbs trophy. They love having him on the team, but QB production is a lot more easily replaced than any other position, so I think they let him go.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
C.J. Spiller (6th): The year that Burdettinators doesn't keep C.J. Spiller, is the year that he finally lives up to expectations. This player has so much potential, but Burdettinators don't need to hang their hat on potential when they've got production all through the roster. If this team wasn't so loaded this would make sense, but Spiller doesn't come close on this team.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: LeSean McCoy (1st), Eddie Lacy (6th*), Dez Bryant (3rd)
What I would do: LeSean McCoy (1st), Eddie Lacy (6th*), Dez Bryant (3rd)
Friday 25 July 2014
Tag Predictions: Forge Flyers & ADRZ
With the off season being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be
fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged,
B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring preseason
injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I
would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing
these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Forge Flyers
Jimmy Graham (2nd): One of the elite 3 TE's (and the positions best last season), Graham gave much needed assistance to Forge Flyers down the stretch last season. After executing a trade (sending a lofty pick to TDT), Graham isn't going anywhere else, except back to Coach Leach this year. He would be crazy to walk away from such a big investment now.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Toby Gerhart (7th*): After sending a 6th round pick to Tom's Tyrants the other day to secure Gerharts' services, Forge Flyers are obviously now tagging him. They have paid a hefty price this year to bring in keepers, and will be left extremely short handed on draft day, so for their sake Gerhart and Graham need to be worth the investment.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Brandon Marshall (2nd): A guy that has suited up for Coach Leach 2 years straight now, I find it hard to believe he will go anywhere else. On some other teams in the league, Marshall is a good candidate to be let go, due to his high cost (which will be a 1st and a 2nd with Jimmy Graham). But, this team is short of options to some degree, so it makes sense to bring him back.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Steven Jackson (6th): After being a tagged free agent, Jackson's first full season in Forge town was less than ideal. Going on 31 now, Jackson's fantasy outlook is murky (at least as the whole show in the backfield). Be that as it may, he is currently the only viable back on the Falcon's roster, and given a chance could put up numbers.
Tag likelihood: It’s definitely possible
DeSean Jackson (4th): Jackson was a revelation for Forge Flyers last season, being a key part of their winning season. However, he will be donning a new uniform in the NFL this year and likely in the LOC as well. GM Leach still likes this guy, but not enough to tag him.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Jimmy Graham (2nd), Brandon Marshall (2nd), Toby Gerhart (7th*)
What I would do: Jimmy Graham (2nd), Brandon Marshall (2nd), Toby Gerhart (7th)
ADRZ
Calvin Johnson (1st): GM Wells gave up a pretty penny in order to secure Johnson's services for only a handful of games last season, and because of that, they are essentially locked into tagging him. You don't just give up a 3rd round pick for a few games. If anyone can warrant this kind of investment, it's Johnson, who should definitely provide the points to make this deal worthwhile.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Marshawn Lynch (4th): Lynch has been one of the best backs in the league over the past couple of seasons, and has been a lock in the ADRZ roster as well. He will be turning 28 and may get a down tick in production, but is still well worth the 4th round pick. The ADRZ wagon will be hitched to Marshawn Lynch for at least one more season.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Alshon Jeffery (7th*): Jeffery emerged as one of the best receivers in fantasy last season, and after getting bounced around on a few LOC rosters, blossomed when he landed with ADRZ. At only a 7th round tag, Jeffery has the potential to emerge into a premier receiver for ADRZ.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Michael Floyd (7th*): Like Jeffery, Floyd emerged as a fantastic option at times in 2013, and ADRZ cashed in. To boot, Coach Wells is a Cardinals fan, so he would love to bring in a player of his own. However, compared to Jeffery, he just isn't quite at the same level yet, so he will end up going down the Jeffery route before this one.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Eric Decker (6th*): Decker was somewhat of a headache for Coach Wells last year. He was plenty busy with Manning throwing him the ball, but his point total was wildly sporadic (not to mention he was riding the pine for ADRZ when he dropped 40 points). Now in New York, he is nowhere near as attractive an option, especially compared to GM Wells' alternatives.
Tag likelihood: It's not happening
Predicted tags: Calvin Johnson (1st), Marshawn Lynch (4th), Alshon Jeffery (7th*)
What I would do: Calvin Johnson (1st), Marshawn Lynch (4th), Alshon Jeffery (7th)
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Forge Flyers
Jimmy Graham (2nd): One of the elite 3 TE's (and the positions best last season), Graham gave much needed assistance to Forge Flyers down the stretch last season. After executing a trade (sending a lofty pick to TDT), Graham isn't going anywhere else, except back to Coach Leach this year. He would be crazy to walk away from such a big investment now.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Toby Gerhart (7th*): After sending a 6th round pick to Tom's Tyrants the other day to secure Gerharts' services, Forge Flyers are obviously now tagging him. They have paid a hefty price this year to bring in keepers, and will be left extremely short handed on draft day, so for their sake Gerhart and Graham need to be worth the investment.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Brandon Marshall (2nd): A guy that has suited up for Coach Leach 2 years straight now, I find it hard to believe he will go anywhere else. On some other teams in the league, Marshall is a good candidate to be let go, due to his high cost (which will be a 1st and a 2nd with Jimmy Graham). But, this team is short of options to some degree, so it makes sense to bring him back.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Steven Jackson (6th): After being a tagged free agent, Jackson's first full season in Forge town was less than ideal. Going on 31 now, Jackson's fantasy outlook is murky (at least as the whole show in the backfield). Be that as it may, he is currently the only viable back on the Falcon's roster, and given a chance could put up numbers.
Tag likelihood: It’s definitely possible
DeSean Jackson (4th): Jackson was a revelation for Forge Flyers last season, being a key part of their winning season. However, he will be donning a new uniform in the NFL this year and likely in the LOC as well. GM Leach still likes this guy, but not enough to tag him.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Jimmy Graham (2nd), Brandon Marshall (2nd), Toby Gerhart (7th*)
What I would do: Jimmy Graham (2nd), Brandon Marshall (2nd), Toby Gerhart (7th)
ADRZ
Calvin Johnson (1st): GM Wells gave up a pretty penny in order to secure Johnson's services for only a handful of games last season, and because of that, they are essentially locked into tagging him. You don't just give up a 3rd round pick for a few games. If anyone can warrant this kind of investment, it's Johnson, who should definitely provide the points to make this deal worthwhile.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Marshawn Lynch (4th): Lynch has been one of the best backs in the league over the past couple of seasons, and has been a lock in the ADRZ roster as well. He will be turning 28 and may get a down tick in production, but is still well worth the 4th round pick. The ADRZ wagon will be hitched to Marshawn Lynch for at least one more season.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Alshon Jeffery (7th*): Jeffery emerged as one of the best receivers in fantasy last season, and after getting bounced around on a few LOC rosters, blossomed when he landed with ADRZ. At only a 7th round tag, Jeffery has the potential to emerge into a premier receiver for ADRZ.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Michael Floyd (7th*): Like Jeffery, Floyd emerged as a fantastic option at times in 2013, and ADRZ cashed in. To boot, Coach Wells is a Cardinals fan, so he would love to bring in a player of his own. However, compared to Jeffery, he just isn't quite at the same level yet, so he will end up going down the Jeffery route before this one.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Eric Decker (6th*): Decker was somewhat of a headache for Coach Wells last year. He was plenty busy with Manning throwing him the ball, but his point total was wildly sporadic (not to mention he was riding the pine for ADRZ when he dropped 40 points). Now in New York, he is nowhere near as attractive an option, especially compared to GM Wells' alternatives.
Tag likelihood: It's not happening
Predicted tags: Calvin Johnson (1st), Marshawn Lynch (4th), Alshon Jeffery (7th*)
What I would do: Calvin Johnson (1st), Marshawn Lynch (4th), Alshon Jeffery (7th)
Thursday 24 July 2014
Tag Predictions: Gridiron Gang & The Tuckfards
With the off season being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be
fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged,
B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring preseason
injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I
would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing
these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Gridiron Gang
Michael Crabtree (6th*): Gridiron Gang's 2013 draft was not a loss, as a well formed plan in the latter rounds is playing dividends now. He came back in late 2013 and gave Gridiron Gang some much needed support. In 2014, he should be back to super star status, at the bargain price of a 6th round pick)
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Alfred Morris (6th): Another player that was part of Gridiron Gang's 2013 master plan. GM Stubbs did not draft this player, but he was obtained via a trade, giving up Percy Harvin. Gridiron Gang won their championship hitched to the wagons of Matt Forte and LeSean McCoy. They've lacked a workhorse back in the past couple of seasons, and Morris is just that.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Andre Ellington (7th*): Ellington joined Gridiron Gang fairly late on in the season, but got some playing time down the stretch. With Mendenhall out of the picture, Ellington figures to become a star. Gridiron Gang was burned by a potential star last year (Lamar Miller), but that cost a 3rd round pick. They don't mind taking a risk with a 7th, on someone who has already produced.
Tag likelihood: It's almost a certainty
Joique Bell (7th*): This is the only other major contender I see on this team. Bell got significant playing time last year for Coach Stubbs, giving a poor stable of backs some much needed assistance. He figures to at least match what he did last year, and has a good shot to improve on it. But with Reggie Bush still in town, he isn't going to have as many opportunities as Ellington.
Tag likelihood: It's definitely possible
Shane Vereen (6th*): Vereen was groomed as one of Gridiron Gang's starting backs last year, only to break a bone in his wrist and miss most of the season. Coach Stubbs likes this guy, and he is a Patriot, but he just isn't going to be more valuable than Michael Crabtree.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot for this to happen
Predicted tags: Michael Crabtree (6th*), Alfred Morris (6th), Andre Ellington (7th*)
What I would do: Michael Crabtree (6th*), Alfred Morris (6th), Andre Ellington (7th*)
The Tuckfards
Jamaal Charles (1st): After a trade in 2012 (for a mere 7th round pick) bought Charles to The Tuckfards, he has been the horse that has pulled the Tuckfards cart. He isn't ready to find a new steed yet. Despite the lofty 1st round pick, Charles will be back in a Tuckfards uniform next year.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
DeMarco Murray (5th): A surprise star for this team last year. Murray had the injury bug in his first few seasons, but he dodged it last year (for the most part). He had a solid year, and I think this coach believes he can avoid the bug and do the same again. I don't have the same amount of confidence, but this coach shows loyalty to players that serve him well.
Tag likelihood: It's almost a certainty
Jordan Cameron (6th*): A surprise star last season, The Tuckfards scooped this guy up in the 15th round of the draft, and he performed admirably. TE production is so hard to replace, so The Tuckfards would be hard pressed to not bring back a big piece of their team for a 6th round pick.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Drew Brees (1st): We all know this coach has a man crush on Drew Brees (which lead to him being tagged for a first rounder last year). However, I think (or at least I hope) this coach has come to his senses and realized that you don't need to burn a first round pick on a QB, even if they are a future Hall of Famer.
Tag likelihood: It's not happening
Predicted tags: Jamaal Charles (1st), DeMarco Murray (5th), Jordan Cameron (6th*)
What I would do: Jamaal Charles (1st), DeMarco Murray (5th), Jordan Cameron (6th*)
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Gridiron Gang
Michael Crabtree (6th*): Gridiron Gang's 2013 draft was not a loss, as a well formed plan in the latter rounds is playing dividends now. He came back in late 2013 and gave Gridiron Gang some much needed support. In 2014, he should be back to super star status, at the bargain price of a 6th round pick)
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Alfred Morris (6th): Another player that was part of Gridiron Gang's 2013 master plan. GM Stubbs did not draft this player, but he was obtained via a trade, giving up Percy Harvin. Gridiron Gang won their championship hitched to the wagons of Matt Forte and LeSean McCoy. They've lacked a workhorse back in the past couple of seasons, and Morris is just that.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Andre Ellington (7th*): Ellington joined Gridiron Gang fairly late on in the season, but got some playing time down the stretch. With Mendenhall out of the picture, Ellington figures to become a star. Gridiron Gang was burned by a potential star last year (Lamar Miller), but that cost a 3rd round pick. They don't mind taking a risk with a 7th, on someone who has already produced.
Tag likelihood: It's almost a certainty
Joique Bell (7th*): This is the only other major contender I see on this team. Bell got significant playing time last year for Coach Stubbs, giving a poor stable of backs some much needed assistance. He figures to at least match what he did last year, and has a good shot to improve on it. But with Reggie Bush still in town, he isn't going to have as many opportunities as Ellington.
Tag likelihood: It's definitely possible
Shane Vereen (6th*): Vereen was groomed as one of Gridiron Gang's starting backs last year, only to break a bone in his wrist and miss most of the season. Coach Stubbs likes this guy, and he is a Patriot, but he just isn't going to be more valuable than Michael Crabtree.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot for this to happen
Predicted tags: Michael Crabtree (6th*), Alfred Morris (6th), Andre Ellington (7th*)
What I would do: Michael Crabtree (6th*), Alfred Morris (6th), Andre Ellington (7th*)
The Tuckfards
Jamaal Charles (1st): After a trade in 2012 (for a mere 7th round pick) bought Charles to The Tuckfards, he has been the horse that has pulled the Tuckfards cart. He isn't ready to find a new steed yet. Despite the lofty 1st round pick, Charles will be back in a Tuckfards uniform next year.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
DeMarco Murray (5th): A surprise star for this team last year. Murray had the injury bug in his first few seasons, but he dodged it last year (for the most part). He had a solid year, and I think this coach believes he can avoid the bug and do the same again. I don't have the same amount of confidence, but this coach shows loyalty to players that serve him well.
Tag likelihood: It's almost a certainty
Jordan Cameron (6th*): A surprise star last season, The Tuckfards scooped this guy up in the 15th round of the draft, and he performed admirably. TE production is so hard to replace, so The Tuckfards would be hard pressed to not bring back a big piece of their team for a 6th round pick.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Drew Brees (1st): We all know this coach has a man crush on Drew Brees (which lead to him being tagged for a first rounder last year). However, I think (or at least I hope) this coach has come to his senses and realized that you don't need to burn a first round pick on a QB, even if they are a future Hall of Famer.
Tag likelihood: It's not happening
Predicted tags: Jamaal Charles (1st), DeMarco Murray (5th), Jordan Cameron (6th*)
What I would do: Jamaal Charles (1st), DeMarco Murray (5th), Jordan Cameron (6th*)
Tag Predictions: Tom's Tyrants
With the offseason being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be
fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged,
B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring pre-season
injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I
would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing
these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Tom's Tyrants
Le'Veon Bell (6th*): GM Barnes drafted a team mired with injuries come the start of the season, and Bell was no different. But when Bell was back, he was glad he drafted him. Bell put up solid numbers as a rookie for Tom's Tyrants, and at a 6th round tag should continue to do so next season.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Zac Stacy (7th*): Stacy was another guy that Coach Barnes didn't have the luxury of utilising at the start of last season, but was vital to the teams mid-season revival. He carved out a role for the St Louis football club, and he carved one out on Tom's Tyrants as well. At the cost of a 7th round pick, pairing him with Bell for a 6th rounder just makes too much sense.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Adrian Peterson (2nd): Two years ago, GM Barnes took a massive risk drafting Peterson at the end of the third round, who at the time was coming off an ACL tear late in the season. He was rewarded with a career campaign. Last year, he didn't match his numbers, or come close, but was still effective when on the field. I think they find it hard to walk away from Peterson this season.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Demaryius Thomas (3rd): Like Peterson, GM Barnes did a fantastic job in the 2012 draft, with another potential re-tag on the cards. Thomas has Peyton Manning slinging him the rock, so he gains automatic WR1 status, yet somehow finds himself 4th on this list. This team has been loaded the past two years, and amazingly I don't think Thomas makes the cut in GM Barnes tag decisions, but it's between him and Peterson in my book.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Rob Gronkowski (6th): GM Barnes gave up a lot to get Gronk two seasons ago (a 5th and a 9th), only to get 7 games out of him. Gronkowski has had his injury problems the past few seasons, and I think that, combined with the other talent on Tom's Tyrants roster, is enough for GM Barnes to part ways with Gronk, only a season removed from the trade, despite his cheap cost to keep.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Julio Jones (1st): Jones didn't quite make the tag list last year for Tom's Tyrants, but was scooped up with their first pick. I think if GM Barnes wants this guy, he will do the exact same again. Jones should be on the board when he is picking, and has other more valuable tags on the roster, despite his explosiveness.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Toby Gerhart (7th*): Gerhart has been playing behind Peterson for 4 years now, and finally gets his shot to start for the Jags. While that sentence might not inspire much excitement for most of us, Coach Barnes is intrigued by the prospect. Ultimately, he isn't going to beat out the others above him on this list, despite his potential.
Tag likelihood: It's not going to happen
Cordarrelle Patterson (7th*): At times, he showed flashes of brilliance in the regular season, and that was enough for GM Barnes to make a lake pick up and keep him on his final day roster. Now with Norval Turner in town, Patterson could be special. But he simply isn't a better option than the people above him on this list.
Tag likelihood: Not a chance
Predicted tags: Le'Veon Bell (6th*), Zac Stacy (7th*), Adrian Peterson (2nd)
What I would do: Le'Veon Bell (6th*), Zac Stacy (7th*), Rob Gronkowski (6th)
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
Tom's Tyrants
Le'Veon Bell (6th*): GM Barnes drafted a team mired with injuries come the start of the season, and Bell was no different. But when Bell was back, he was glad he drafted him. Bell put up solid numbers as a rookie for Tom's Tyrants, and at a 6th round tag should continue to do so next season.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Zac Stacy (7th*): Stacy was another guy that Coach Barnes didn't have the luxury of utilising at the start of last season, but was vital to the teams mid-season revival. He carved out a role for the St Louis football club, and he carved one out on Tom's Tyrants as well. At the cost of a 7th round pick, pairing him with Bell for a 6th rounder just makes too much sense.
Tag likelihood: He'd be crazy not to
Adrian Peterson (2nd): Two years ago, GM Barnes took a massive risk drafting Peterson at the end of the third round, who at the time was coming off an ACL tear late in the season. He was rewarded with a career campaign. Last year, he didn't match his numbers, or come close, but was still effective when on the field. I think they find it hard to walk away from Peterson this season.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Demaryius Thomas (3rd): Like Peterson, GM Barnes did a fantastic job in the 2012 draft, with another potential re-tag on the cards. Thomas has Peyton Manning slinging him the rock, so he gains automatic WR1 status, yet somehow finds himself 4th on this list. This team has been loaded the past two years, and amazingly I don't think Thomas makes the cut in GM Barnes tag decisions, but it's between him and Peterson in my book.
Tag likelihood: More likely than not
Rob Gronkowski (6th): GM Barnes gave up a lot to get Gronk two seasons ago (a 5th and a 9th), only to get 7 games out of him. Gronkowski has had his injury problems the past few seasons, and I think that, combined with the other talent on Tom's Tyrants roster, is enough for GM Barnes to part ways with Gronk, only a season removed from the trade, despite his cheap cost to keep.
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Julio Jones (1st): Jones didn't quite make the tag list last year for Tom's Tyrants, but was scooped up with their first pick. I think if GM Barnes wants this guy, he will do the exact same again. Jones should be on the board when he is picking, and has other more valuable tags on the roster, despite his explosiveness.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Toby Gerhart (7th*): Gerhart has been playing behind Peterson for 4 years now, and finally gets his shot to start for the Jags. While that sentence might not inspire much excitement for most of us, Coach Barnes is intrigued by the prospect. Ultimately, he isn't going to beat out the others above him on this list, despite his potential.
Tag likelihood: It's not going to happen
Cordarrelle Patterson (7th*): At times, he showed flashes of brilliance in the regular season, and that was enough for GM Barnes to make a lake pick up and keep him on his final day roster. Now with Norval Turner in town, Patterson could be special. But he simply isn't a better option than the people above him on this list.
Tag likelihood: Not a chance
Predicted tags: Le'Veon Bell (6th*), Zac Stacy (7th*), Adrian Peterson (2nd)
What I would do: Le'Veon Bell (6th*), Zac Stacy (7th*), Rob Gronkowski (6th)
Tag Predictions: The Dream Team & Obama's Llamas
With the off season being a long, cruel mistress, I thought it would be
fun to evaluate A) the potential players who could be franchise tagged,
B) the likelihood of said players being tagged (barring preseason
injury), C) predicting the three eventual tags, and D) saying what I
would do if it were me. Let's get to it (boy it feels good to be writing
these again)!
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
The Dream Team
Randall Cobb (6th): A revelation free agent pick up in Coach Nathwani's memorable 2012 season, Cobb missed most of last season with an injury. At the low cost of a 6th round pick, they can easily afford to bring him back again, and he should have a very nice season if he stays healthy.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Keenan Allen (7th*): Allen stormed onto the scene last year for the Chargers and The Dream Team. Giving a receiver starved team some much needed help, he was carrying Coach Nathwani's receiving corps at times. Other coaches won't like seeing Allen and Cobb lining up against them each week, but Coach Nathwani sure will. At only a 7th rounder, this is an easy decision.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Reggie Bush (3rd): As I stated in the preseason last year, Reggie Bush is just a Dream Team kind of guy. He worked wonders for this team last year, but did miss some time. With a new coaching regime in town, I'm not as confident that Bush is the no.1 back on that team anymore, but I think GM Nathwani is, and that's why I think he is third on this list.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Dennis Pitta (7th*): Although Dennis Pitta missed most of last season, The Dream Team desperately needed someone to come on board with Jimmy Graham traded away. He wasn't particularly effective upon returning, but did garner a lot of looks, and should be one of Flacco's main targets next season. He may only be in the top 10 TE's come the end of the season (which is a world of difference to the top 5), but could still be a valuable contributor. He would also need to tag him instead of Keenan Allen
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Tavon Austin (7th*): Austin's rookie season was somewhat of a disappointment. Some of this can be attributed to Sam Bradford missing most of the season, but some of it falls on Austin as well. There are no guarantees he will be able to vastly improve on his rookie campaign, but the upside is always there. A 7th round pick may just be low enough for GM Nathwani to take a chance.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Randall Cobb (6th), Keenan Allen (7th*), Reggie Bush (3rd)
What I would do: Randall Cobb (6th), Keenan Allen (7th*), Reggie Bush (3rd)
Obama's Llamas
Pierre Garcon (5th): The new coach really doesn't have many options when it comes to tags, but has 3 credible ones, starting with Garcon. Garcon hauled in the most passes last season, and had a great campaign. With an improved RGIII, he should do the same again, and will do it for a rookie coach.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
A.J. Green (2nd): One of the most dominant fantasy receivers since his rookie season, A.J. Green was the face of the team last season, and I can't see a scenario where he isn't for the new franchise. Despite his lofty cause, he is well worth the price, and any rookie coach would be lucky to have him.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Kendall Wright (6th*): The last credible option I see on this team, you may be confused why he is here at all. The Titans no. 1 receiver had a nice year last year, and should continue to put up nice numbers. While he may not be the best of tags in the league, and a trade could be made for another keeper, I don't mind this pick at all for a 6th rounder.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Predicted tags: Pierre Garcon (5th), A.J. Green (2nd), Kendall Wright (6th*)
What I would do: Pierre Garcon (5th), A.J. Green (2nd), Kendall Wright (6th*)
(NOTE: * indicates either free agent or 6+ round pick, only one of these players in each category may be selected per team)
The Dream Team
Randall Cobb (6th): A revelation free agent pick up in Coach Nathwani's memorable 2012 season, Cobb missed most of last season with an injury. At the low cost of a 6th round pick, they can easily afford to bring him back again, and he should have a very nice season if he stays healthy.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Keenan Allen (7th*): Allen stormed onto the scene last year for the Chargers and The Dream Team. Giving a receiver starved team some much needed help, he was carrying Coach Nathwani's receiving corps at times. Other coaches won't like seeing Allen and Cobb lining up against them each week, but Coach Nathwani sure will. At only a 7th rounder, this is an easy decision.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Reggie Bush (3rd): As I stated in the preseason last year, Reggie Bush is just a Dream Team kind of guy. He worked wonders for this team last year, but did miss some time. With a new coaching regime in town, I'm not as confident that Bush is the no.1 back on that team anymore, but I think GM Nathwani is, and that's why I think he is third on this list.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Dennis Pitta (7th*): Although Dennis Pitta missed most of last season, The Dream Team desperately needed someone to come on board with Jimmy Graham traded away. He wasn't particularly effective upon returning, but did garner a lot of looks, and should be one of Flacco's main targets next season. He may only be in the top 10 TE's come the end of the season (which is a world of difference to the top 5), but could still be a valuable contributor. He would also need to tag him instead of Keenan Allen
Tag likelihood: Makes a lot of sense, but not quite
Tavon Austin (7th*): Austin's rookie season was somewhat of a disappointment. Some of this can be attributed to Sam Bradford missing most of the season, but some of it falls on Austin as well. There are no guarantees he will be able to vastly improve on his rookie campaign, but the upside is always there. A 7th round pick may just be low enough for GM Nathwani to take a chance.
Tag likelihood: It would take a lot to make this happen
Predicted tags: Randall Cobb (6th), Keenan Allen (7th*), Reggie Bush (3rd)
What I would do: Randall Cobb (6th), Keenan Allen (7th*), Reggie Bush (3rd)
Obama's Llamas
Pierre Garcon (5th): The new coach really doesn't have many options when it comes to tags, but has 3 credible ones, starting with Garcon. Garcon hauled in the most passes last season, and had a great campaign. With an improved RGIII, he should do the same again, and will do it for a rookie coach.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
A.J. Green (2nd): One of the most dominant fantasy receivers since his rookie season, A.J. Green was the face of the team last season, and I can't see a scenario where he isn't for the new franchise. Despite his lofty cause, he is well worth the price, and any rookie coach would be lucky to have him.
Tag likelihood: It's a lock
Kendall Wright (6th*): The last credible option I see on this team, you may be confused why he is here at all. The Titans no. 1 receiver had a nice year last year, and should continue to put up nice numbers. While he may not be the best of tags in the league, and a trade could be made for another keeper, I don't mind this pick at all for a 6th rounder.
Tag likelihood: It's probably going to happen
Predicted tags: Pierre Garcon (5th), A.J. Green (2nd), Kendall Wright (6th*)
Wednesday 23 July 2014
2014: Keeper Predictions
Co-host Chris Leach rejoins the podcast for a week before leaving us again, but leaves a podcast that will hold you over until he returns. Coach Merritt also joined Commissioner Stubbs this week for some hot debate on potential keepers, and some breaking LOC news.
Wednesday 16 July 2014
2014: AGM And Pass Ball Game Review
Commissioner Stubbs is without his trusted co-host Chris Leach this week, but is joined by a guest that more than makes up for his absence, head coach of The Tuckfards, Phil Merritt. Phil stopped by to chat about the new off season series: Tag predictions, and to review the AGM and Pass Ball game.
Friday 11 July 2014
2014: Best And Worst Draft Picks Of 2013
The topic of this LOC Report is the draft of 2013, where Commissioner Stubbs is joined by none other than Head coach of IKNAN Ben Sherwood, and newly anointed co-host Chris Leach. If children are listening, make sure you cover their ears for this one...
Tuesday 1 July 2014
2014: 2013 Season Review
Commissioner Stubbs is joined by Coach Leach and Coach Nathwani for the second week in a row to reflect on the 2013 season, looking at each team, the highs and lows, and even some live reaction to the Argentina Switzerland game. *The views of Coach Leach do not represent the views of the LOC*
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