NFL Fantasy Football Profile: Joe Flacco of Baltimore Ravens

Jan 10, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) celebrates after the Ravens

For years, Joe Flacco has not been the centerpiece of what drives the Baltimore Ravens to winning football games. Typically that has been the defense and a steady ground attack, with Flacco taking over only when necessary. Even so, expectations remain high for him to finally have that Pro Bowl season that has eluded him since he entered the league in 2008. Ravens fans are anxious to see him finally earn that “elite” status. NFL fantasy football owners want some sort of sign they can trust him with an early draft pick.

Joe Flacco is so much better than most NFL fans think. He gets way too much unwarranted grief.
— Aaron Nagler (@AaronNagler) July 5, 2015

2014 Production:

3,986 yards passing
70 yards rushing
29 touchdowns
12 interceptions
262.44 fantasy points

There are a few key issues to focus on when deciding whether Flacco is worth the attention of fantasy league. He’s once again changed offensive coordinators. With Gary Kubiak leaving for Denver, he is now under the guidance of Marc Trestman. Known for his ability to coach quarterbacks, Trestman has typically favored a pass-first approach to the game. He did that in San Francisco, Oakland and didn’t change after he got back from Canada to head the Chicago Bears. This would be a departure from the typical offenses Flacco is used to, unless head coach John Harbaugh pressures Trestman into maintaining a strong ground commitment.

Then there is the weaponry. Torrey Smith left the team for San Francisco, leaving Flacco with a collection of unknown weapons. Steve Smith Sr. turned 36-years old in May. Dennis Pitta has suffered two season-ending hip injuries. Marlon Brown has done little beyond the occasional big play. Breshad Perriman and Maxx Williams are both talented but also rookies. So there are a lot of question marks.

Never a good sign when it comes to reliable fantasy production. So until such time as the signs are a little brighter, perhaps it’s best to keep Flacco handy for reserve situations but not a regular starter.

Fantasy Points Projection: 205

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