NFL Fantasy: Who Can Be Found in the Bargain Bin?
By Erik Lambert
Dec 15, 2013; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (88) gets shoved out of bounds by New York Jets strong safety Dawan Landry (26) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Part of the difference between winning and losing in NFL fantasy leagues is knowing how to find productive players for cheap. Who are some options in 2014?
James Jones – WR – Oakland Raiders
Bargain players tend to be guys who aren’t superstars but are still good for those one or two really solid performances during the year. James Jones is a perfect example. He was never the go-to guy in Green Bay but if defenses weren’t careful he could break out for over 100 yards in a heartbeat. He is now with the Oakland Raiders, a team that figures to get passed up on the NFL fantasy circuit early in drafts, which means it’s likely owners can get him much later.
Toby Gerhart – RB – Jacksonville Jaguars
Being 27-years old, having been a backup his entire career and playing for the Jacksonville Jaguars, it’s understandable why fantasy experts will likely pass on Toby Gerhart more than a few times. That being said the mileage on his body is not near what a running back typical of his age would have. For his career he has averaged 4.7 yards per carry and he’s on a team under a head coach that is going to run the football consistently. He may not produce highlight reel material, but he will put up numbers.
Ryan Fitzpatrick – QB – Houston Texans
There was a time where Ryan Fitzpatrick was good enough to earn a long-term extension from the Buffalo Bills. He again flashed that potential last season for Tennessee when he rained four touchdowns on the tough Arizona Cardinals defense. Fitzpatrick isn’t a star, but if an NFL fantasy owner plays his cards right and recognizes the ability of Houston Texans head coach Bill O’Brien to mold quarterbacks, then the veteran could have a few standout moments in 2014. It all depends on the timing and the matchup. Remember he will be throwing to Andre Johnson and DeAndre Hopkins.
Greg Olsen – TE – Carolina Panthers
With Jimmy Graham ripping up the league in New Orleans, overlooking a guy like Greg Olsen has become too commonplace. The Carolina Panthers tight end is not a superstar but he is a proven, consistent pass catcher who has averaged over 800 yards and at least five touchdowns the past two seasons. He also hasn’t missed a game since his rookie year way back in 2007. In terms of being a start in NFL fantasy leagues, that is arguable but as a key reserve there might not be a better bargain.