Top Five NFL Fantasy Options: NFC South
By Erik Lambert
Jun 11, 2014; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) during minicamp at the New Orleans Saints Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Offensive firepower and defensive punch both inhabit the topsy-turvy NFC South. Where do NFL fantasy owners dare to look?
#5 – Carolina Panthers defense
Questions may surround the Carolina Panthers offense and how much it can do in 2014, but nobody is concerned about the defense. Headlined by a dynamic front seven led by Luke Kuechly and Greg Hardy, it’s a group that can suffocate opponents with relentless pass rush. This often leads to turnovers. That is money in NFL fantasy circles. Barring injuries this group should be a reliable option.
#4 – Julio Jones
His 2013 campaign ended after just five games, but nobody would be wise to count out Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones. He’s still one of the most dynamic weapons in the league thanks to his size and speed. If he doesn’t suffer another freak accident there is no way the team doesn’t use every way in the book to get him the football, especially down the field.
#3 – Jimmy Graham
He wants to get paid like a wide receiver because he feels he produces like a wide receiver. Tight end Jimmy Graham certainly has a valid point after posting 1,300 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. He is arguably the most dangerous offensive weapon in pro football and as close to a surge thing for NFL fantasy owners. Provided he doesn’t stage a lengthy holdout he should pile on the points.
#2 – Matt Ryan
Nearly everything that could go wrong went wrong for the Atlanta Falcons in 2013. Yet in spite of it all, from the loss of Julio Jones to poor pass protection, quarterback Matt Ryan found ways to put up numbers. Looking ahead Jones is expected back healthy and the offensive line got a major upgrade via free agency and the draft. If this stay constant he should meet or even surpass what he accomplished last season.
#1 – Drew Brees
Fantasy owners know where their bread is buttered in the NFC South. No player puts up ridiculous numbers like Drew Brees. He’s a regular threat to top 5,000 yards and continues to churn out 35 to 45 touchdown passes every year. Top that with the fact he hasn’t missed a game since 2009 and there is little doubt he’ll make a number of league very competitive.