NFL Fantasy: Five Sleeper Quarterbacks
By Erik Lambert
Dec 29, 2013; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) reacts during a game against the New York Jets at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Quarterbacks are among the most important pieces in an NFL fantasy league, especially ones that can be found later in drafts. Who are some sleepers?
E.J. Manuel – Buffalo Bills
Injuries hampered him in 2013, as did poor pass protection but E.J. Manuel flashed plenty of promise for the Buffalo Bills. Tweaks to the offensive line should help keep him healthy this year but it is the upgrades to his arsenal, specifically the addition of rookie receiver Sammy Watkins that could really bump his NFL fantasy standing.
Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears
Despite his obvious talent, Jay Cutler has never really been a consistent or reliable fantasy option throughout most of his career. That is in line to change. He has an ideal situation with the Chicago Bears from an experienced coaching staff to a solid offensive line and an array of dangerous weapons including Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery and Matt Forte. All he needs to do is stay healthy.
Ryan Tannehill – Miami Dolphins
Being the most sacked quarterback in the league typically makes it hard to have any sort of success. Still, Ryan Tannehill managed to make his share of plays for the Miami Dolphins. With a completely revamped offensive line and a bolster wide receiving corps, Tannehill could emerge in his all-important third season to become the second NFL fantasy go-to guy in the AFC East behind Tom Brady.
Geno Smith – New York Jets
Speaking of the AFC, it would seem the New York Jets have high hopes for their own signal caller. Geno Smith was a poster boy for inconsistency in 2013, looking brilliant in some games and lost in others. He is a legitimate dual-threat player and now has an improved cast around him including Eric Decker at receiver and Chris Johnson at running back. He needs to improve his discipline, but the pieces are there for a spike in NFL fantasy relevance.
Josh McCown – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
There are a lot of variables going on with Josh McCown of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He had tremendous success last season in Chicago with 13 touchdowns and just one interception in just eight games and five starts. However that was primarily as a backup in a different offensive system. He will have a good situation with the Bucs too what with Vincent Jackson and Mike Evans as his new targets, but it’s remains to be seen if the 35-year old was more a product of his head coach than his own prowess.