NFL Fantasy: First Round Gambles for 2014
By Erik Lambert
Dec 22, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray (29) carries the ball as Washington Redskins outside linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) attempts to make the tackle in the fourth quarter at FedEx Field. The Cowboys won 24-23. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Part of succeeding in the NFL fantasy world is taking a chance on players that don’t warrant it on the surface. Who are some potential first round gambles?
Jay Cutler – Chicago Bears
Owners never got a chance to see the full spectrum of Jay Cutler in the new Chicago Bears offense under Marc Trestman. Ankle and groin injuries robbed him of five games and he was never able to find a rhythm. Still, he’s firmly entrenched as the starter, is entering the second year in the same offense and is surrounded by premier weaponry including Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery. If he can stay healthy it could mean a breakout season for the 31-year old.
DeMarco Murray – Dallas Cowboys
By most accounts they are still a throwing team, but the Dallas Cowboys are now beginning to understand they have a ground game they can lean on. In just 217 touches DeMarco Murray amassed over 1,100 yards and nine touchdowns while also catching 53 passes. The big gamble with him is whether the Cowboys will feed him enough and whether he can stay healthy. Murray has not finished a complete season yet.
Nick Foles – Philadelphia Eagles
Chip Kelly unlocked a possible gem last season when he put Nick Foles in as a starter. By the time the 2013 regular season was over, the second-year quarterback had 27 touchdown passes to just two interceptions. NFL fantasy owners should be on alert here because Foles pulled that off in just 13 games to pull that off. One must wonder what he can do with more experience and a chance to start from opening day.
Jimmy Graham – New Orleans Saints
Never in NFL fantasy history has a tight end even come close to warranting first round consideration. Until now, anyway. That is how productive Jimmy Graham was for the New Orleans Saints last season with over 1,200 yards and 16 touchdowns. He has a new contract and a chip on his shoulder after failing to win his case of wanting to be classified as a wide receiver. That should result in more big plays.