NFL Fantasy Sleeper Update: Travis Kelce Alert
By Erik Lambert
Aug 9, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce (87) against the New Orleans Saints during a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Chiefs 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
The first preseason games not only intensified roster battles everywhere, it also got NFL fantasy lovers all hot and bothered too. Here are some sleeper alerts.
Kelce torches Cincinnati Bengals
The Kansas City Chiefs insisted last year that tight end Travis Kelce was a future weapon in their offense, but an unfortunate injury derailed their plans. One preseason game into 2014 and the former Cincinnati Bear Cat torched his hometown Cincinnati Bengals for 73 yards and a touchdown on just two catches. His explosiveness is evident and it’s not hard to predict Andy Reid has big ideas in mind for him.
Carlos Hyde makes brief but effective statement
Kendall Hunter tearing his ACL was just another in a series of tough losses for the San Francisco 49ers, but there is a reason that team is considered the deepest in the league. It was proved yet again when rookie 2nd round pick Carlos Hyde, considered by many to be the best running back of his draft class, made a limited but loud and clear statement about his pursuit of Hunter’s job as backup. He finished the night with five carries for 39 yards, looking every bit like the dominant force he was at Ohio State. NFL fantasy owners will approve.
Da’Rick Rogers not falling off radar yet for Indianapolis Colts
Hakeem Nicks had gotten all the attention as the third receiver who will step up and help T.Y Hilton and Reggie Wayne for the Indianapolis Colts. His first preseason action was fine enough with a 15-yard catch, but the highlight of the night belonged to Da’Rick Rogers. The former undrafted free agent was a surprise find for the Colts last season and helped them down the stretch to the playoffs. He seems to have no plans of bowing to Nicks as he hauled in a 45-yard bomb against the Jets. Factor in his enticing 6’3″ frame and Rogers is not out of the running yet.
C.J. Mosley leads spirited Baltimore Ravens defense
Granted, much of the horror show was due to Blaine Gabbert being Blaine Gabbert, but in truth the Baltimore Ravens defense looked awfully good allowing just three points in their preseason debut. Leading the way was rookie 1st round pick C.J. Mosley, who finished with five tackles and a sack, showcasing his trademark versatility. If such strong play from the youngsters continues, Baltimore could become a closet NFL fantasy option among the defenses.