NFL Fantasy Sleepers of 2014: AFC East
By Erik Lambert
Dec 29, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) scrambles during the first half against the Miami Dolphins at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Summer is approaching fast and so are preparations for NFL fantasy leagues. Here is an updated list of potential sleepers from every team in the AFC East.
New England Patriots: Jeremy Gallon – WR
The final pick of the 2014 draft for the New England Patriots. Jeremy Gallon won’t win any height contests at 5’7″ but his versatility is hard to ignore. He has the hands and quickness of a slot receiver but the build of a running back. At age 24 he much more mature than most rookies, has a passion for the game and production both on offense and as a return man. The Patriots will find ways to get him on the field.
New York Jets: Geno Smith – QB
One must give credit where it is due. The New York Jets went into the off-season with a clear mission of upgrading the offense around their quarterbacks and they succeeded, at least on paper. Everything from the protection to the running backs and wide receivers saw at least one upgrade in terms of talent. That is why second-year quarterback Geno Smith could be in line for a serious bump in production. He played with more consistency down the stretch last season and with another year in the offense should improve his timing and decision-making. NFL fantasy owner must note that.
Buffalo Bills: Bryce Brown – RB
Teams don’t trade for players unless they plan to use them. The Buffalo Bills made an eleventh hour deal with Philadelphia to bring in Bryce Brown at running back. It was a curious move at first considering the Bills already have C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson but the facts impossible to escape. Jackson is 33-years old, ancient for a running back. The position is a young man’s game, and Brown is just 23 and spent his first two years as a reserve. So he has plenty of tread on his tires and the production to prove he should play.
Miami Dolphins: Matt Hazel – WR
There is often a difference between wide receivers that scouts and front office men love and receivers quarterbacks love. The scouts love the athletes, the guys who look explosive and unstoppable on tape. However, quarterbacks tend to prefer guys they trust, who will go out and make the catch consistently, covered or not. Matt Hazel is that kind of player for the Miami Dolphins. He may come from small Coastal Carolina but he has good acceleration, vision, and the ability to twist his body to make tough catches. On top of that he has the functional strength to break tackles after the catch. NFL fantasy owners should not be surprised if he gains the eye of Ryan Tannehill very quickly.