NFL Fantasy Sleepers for 2014: AFC South
By Erik Lambert
Nov 10, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Jake Locker (10) drops back into the pocket against the Jacksonville Jaguars during the first half at LP Field. The Jaguars beat the Titans 29-27. Mandatory Credit: Don McPeak-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 South.
Indianapolis Colts: Donte Moncrief – WR
There is a lot to sort through for the Indianapolis Colts regarding their offense, specifically the wide receivers. T.Y. Hilton sits on top with Reggie Wayne expected to join him for at least one more year. That leave a wide open competition for the third spot. Just as under-the-radar as his college season and draft selection went, Donte Moncrief is in position to surprise people again. The young man has good size and hands coupled with a quickness and sneaky speed that allow him to battle or beat defenders. Don’t be surprised if Andrew Luck develops a liking for him.
Houston Texans: Ryan Fitzpatrick – QB
Bill O’Brien took a tremendous risk right off the bat for the Houston Texans when his Houston Texans bypassed the top quarterbacks in the draft in favor of top position players. At present his top two options are veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick and rookie 4th round pick Tom Savage. Fitzpatrick almost certainly will get the first crack what with Savage coming in with little polish. O’Brien is a respected quarterback coach who excelled in the job at New England and then at Penn State. Crazy as it may sound, Fitzpatrick has had success in the past. If he can get the talent Houston has on offense to function, NFL fantasy owner might be rewarded.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Toby Gerhart – RB
Toby Gerhart may be 27-years old but he might as well be 25. The former Heisman runner up from Stanford has spent his entire pro career behind Adrian Peterson. His body hasn’t taken the hits a normal running back his age would. The Jacksonville Jaguars were keen on giving him the shot he’s waited on for years, which is to be “the guy.” Gerhart has produced results in limited action. Provided the Jags hold true to their pledge to run the ball, Gerhart should see a significant spike in fantasy numbers.
Tennessee Titans: Jake Locker – QB
Ken Whisenhunt has a history of salvaging the careers of veteran quarterbacks. He helped Kurt Warner elevate the Arizona Cardinals to a Super Bowl and returned Philip Rivers to Pro Bowl form. Now he has a somewhat unique challenge. Jake Locker is arguably the most physically gifted quarterback he’s ever inherited and is still quite young. The problem is he hasn’t realized his potential with the Tennessee Titans. However, with a strong supporting cast in place Whisenhunt has a chance to make Locker a surprise NFL fantasy contributor if the trends hold true.