Top Five NFL Fantasy Options: NFC East
By Erik Lambert
Jun 17, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant (88) makes a catch during minicamp at Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
The NFC East has its ups and down on the NFL fantasy circuit. Where will the ups be for owners in 2014?
#5 – Eli Manning
It was beyond a forgettable season for Eli Manning in 2013. He finished with more interceptions than touchdown passes and the New York Giants offense struggled to generate anything all year. Now he’s returning healthy. His offensive line appears improved and free agency and the draft brought in more weaponry. If he’s kept on his feet Manning has shown he can dissect defenses. Expect him to rebound.
#4 – Dez Bryant
He’s the best receiver in the NFC East. NFL fantasy owners know this and must take note. The past two seasons Dez Bryant has topped at least 1,200 yards and has scored a combined 25 touchdowns. The Dallas Cowboys know what they have in him and will do everything they can to get him the football as much as possible. It comes down to health and his own self-control.
#3 – Nick Foles
In 13 games with 10 starts last season, Nick Foles had one of the more remarkable seasons by a quarterback in recent memory. While he posted a solid 2,891 yards, it was his 27 touchdowns and just two interceptions that caught attention. Never mind the extra 200 yards and three touchdowns he scored running. Entering the second year of Chip Kelly’s offense with the Philadelphia Eagles, the sky truly is the limit for the 25-year old.
#2 – Tony Romo
He may be 34 and coming off back surgery but Tony Romo has made a habit of putting up stats regardless of his body or situation. He gave NFL fantasy owners a solid 2013 campaign with 31 touchdowns and 3,800 yards. Prospects for 2014 may be even better after the team improved the offensive line in hopes to protect him. If he gets that protection and some help from the defense, he should have another good year.
#1 – LeSean McCoy
The king of fantasy leagues in the NFC East last season is in no danger of losing his crown. Eagles running back LeSean McCoy is arguably the most versatile and deadly offensive weapon in football as evidenced by his over 2,100 yards from scrimmage and 11 touchdowns last season. He is tailor-made for the Chip Kelly offense and turns 26 in July. Barring injury or breakdowns in the offensive line, he will remain a honey hole for fantasy owners.