Fantasy Time Machine + Kyren Siren!

Summary:

Draft Kit and Tools Availability 03:01

• The hosts remind viewers about the availability of the Ultimate Draft Kit, specifically as many leagues prepare for their drafts. They encourage listeners to utilize the kit to make well-informed decisions during their drafting sessions.
• They share details about the draft analyzer feature, which allows players to assess their teams’ strengths and weaknesses post-draft. This tool offers personalized feedback, enhancing the drafting experience and ensuring participants can strategize effectively.
• With league drafts taking place soon, they express excitement for their own league of record draft scheduled for the morning of kickoff day, where they will apply their insights live.

“Check out ultimatdraftkit.com and then of course we want to invite you to participate in the Mega Bowl.”

Player Spotlight: Michael Wilson 05:03

• The hosts shift focus to player predictions and analysis, introducing Michael Wilson, a wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, who they believe has breakout potential this season.
• Wilson is noted as a third-round pick who flashed his potential last year, especially when opportunities arose due to team injuries and lack of receiving options. He performed well even amidst challenging circumstances and is expected to gain more targets with Kyler Murray returning as quarterback.
• With changes in the team’s receiving corps, including a suspension affecting Zay Jones, Wilson is projected to be the number two receiver. The hosts suggest that he is in an advantageous position for more significant offensive contributions this season.

“Second-year wide receivers are just a great bet in fantasy; they are some of the easiest layup picks.”

Changes in Player Rankings and Injury Updates 10:13

• The discussion begins with updates on player rankings, specifically highlighting that Josh Jacobs has seen a significant rise in position due to recent news. The conversation includes observations about player performance and fantasy implications.
• A major injury update discusses Elijah Mitchell, the backup for the San Francisco 49ers, who has been placed on season-ending IR due to a hamstring injury that was exacerbated. This development leads to a newfound interest in Jordan Mason, who has been impressive during preseason and is perceived to fit well within the team’s scheme.
• Mason’s performances from previous games, including a notable outing against Dallas, have bolstered his status as a valuable backup option for Christian McCaffrey. As a result, Mason is considered a player to draft as a potential upside play in fantasy leagues.

“Jordan Mason has looked tremendous and is now a consideration to draft and sit on my bench as an upside play.”

Concerns Regarding Kyren Williams and Fantasy Implications 12:10

• The focus shifts to Kyren Williams, with reports indicating he will serve as the Rams’ punt returner. This revelation has caused concern among fantasy players, as players involved in special teams often face increased injury risks.
• The conversation includes personal reflections on the fantasy implications of this news, detailing how it has affected the speaker’s perception of Williams’ potential workload and value. Despite the initial excitement about Williams’ role, the inclusion of special teams duties raises doubts about his capacity to be the workhorse back.
• Comparisons to other running backs who were also used on special teams and the impact this had on their fantasy relevance underline the apprehensions surrounding Williams. The discussion acknowledges Williams’ past performances, but a consensus emerges that his overall potential is now capped.

“This news puts some fear into fantasy players, and my confidence in Kyren Williams has decreased.”

Investment in Punt Returners and Injuries 19:02

• The discussion emphasizes the potential risk associated with investing in players like Kiren due to concerns around security and injury. While Ronnie Rivers has returned to health and is favored by the team, there is hesitation about Kiren’s capacity to maintain a top position in rankings.
• The speaker acknowledges that while many wide receivers have successfully returned kicks, there haven’t been as many running backs in that role historically. This leads to a reassessment of Kiren’s ranking and the decision to lower his position.
• A hypothetical scenario is presented regarding Christian McCaffrey being named the punt returner, which invokes significant concern for potential injuries. This drives the speaker to be cautious about Kiren’s placement in the rankings as well.

“I want to believe that Kiren can finish number one; I do not believe that anymore.”

Ja’Marr Chase‘s Week One Status and Team Dynamics 20:10

• Jamar Chase appears to be recovering well and is confident about playing in week one, despite prior concerns about his contract situation. The speaker highlights the uncertainty around Chase, as comments from the team have been inconsistent, but confidence is returning regarding his participation.
• The conversation shifts to Kendry Miller, who is starting on the injured reserve list for the Saints. The speaker mentions that there were recent observations regarding Coach Dennis Allen’s enthusiastic comments about Taysom Hill, which may imply changes in the team’s strategy or player positioning.

“Jamar Chase is going to be there in week one.”

Dalvin Cook and Team Moves 22:45

• The latest moves include Dalvin Cook signing with the Cowboys’ practice squad after the release of Royce Freeman and Malik Davis. This move is expected to create excitement and commentary within the team and fans.
• The speaker draws attention to the idea that NFL reporters may have vested interests in their reporting, as they often work closely with agents and insiders, suggesting a certain level of favoritism or bias in how signings are portrayed.

“This is an NFL reporter who just called Dalvin Cook a marquee signing.”

Strategy Around Running Backs and Potential Trades 24:06

• The discussion covers the ongoing adjustments in the running back landscape, including potential return moves for Deontae Foreman after his release, with suggestions that he may return to the roster.
• The commentary also touches on the challenge of holding only two active running backs as the season approaches. The speaker questions the team’s strategy in light of personnel changes and the necessity for depth.

“You can’t go into the season like that.”

Running Back Predictions for 2024 28:18

• The discussion centers on the performance and drafting strategies for notable running backs, specifically focusing on Shaheed and Kamara. The speaker believes that Kamara will be a primary target in the offense this season, resulting in high volume by the fifth round in drafts. Despite previous inefficiencies, the speaker highlights Kamara’s potential due to last year’s performance, and they express frustration with Kamara’s current ranking among running backs.
• In a comparable analysis, the discussion transitions to Tony Pollard, who was impacted by high expectations the previous year. The speaker emphasizes Pollard’s role, describing him as a better player compared to his competition in the Titans. They suggest that Pollard’s situation is similar to how DeAndre Swift outperformed Kenny Gainwell after being given the starting role, thereby implying that Pollard will also thrive under new offensive dynamics.

“I hate where I have Kamara ranked, but looking at the numbers, I think that’s going to happen.”

Analyzing Quarterback Potential for 2024 31:26

• The conversation shifts to quarterbacks, spotlighting Jordan Love and Matthew Stafford. Love significantly improved from being an unproven quarterback to becoming a top-ten quarterback, demonstrating growth with a high touchdown count, including four touchdowns on the ground. The potential of Stafford is examined as well, given his previous success and the strong receiving options available to him this upcoming season, suggesting he might replicate a standout performance.
• Trevor Lawrence is also highlighted, who had a challenging season but showed flashes of brilliance. With strong offensive support and potential growth in his passing game, the speaker believes Lawrence can turn around perceptions and exceed expectations.

“Lawrence ties for the most 20-plus yard passing touchdowns last year, showcasing his ceiling to do something special.”

Tight End Value Picks for 2024 36:51

• The discussion includes potential tight end fantasy players for the upcoming season, using Jake Ferguson as a comparison for success. Tyler Conklin is noted as a player to watch, positioned well in a reliable offense led by Aaron Rodgers. Conklin’s trustworthy target status in the red zone aligns well with the needs of a strong fantasy tight end, drawing parallels with successful targets from last season.

“Conklin is a trustworthy target around the end zone.”

Player Performance Analysis: Tyler Conklin and Pat Freiermuth 37:27

• Tyler Conklin is likened to CD Lamb in his importance within the team context as he steps into a larger role due to other players’ injuries, such as Mike Williams. Conklin has demonstrated reliability, managing close to 100 targets over the past three years, which many have overlooked.
• With consistent performance, Conklin stands out as a sleeper tight end option, particularly due to his physicality and size. He brings the necessary skills to be a dependable target for quarterbacks.
• Last season, during the Jets’ games, Conklin was the third on the team in targets, just behind Garrett Wilson and Breece Hall. If he can receive a similar target volume from quarterback Aaron Rodgers, it could signify a considerable enhancement in his production.
• The comparison extends to Pat Freiermuth, who also experienced ups and downs throughout his career, especially during his rookie year followed by injuries. Despite a tough season for him, there remains optimism regarding his potential productivity given the development surrounding his team.

“Tyler Conklin is being completely ignored as a potential sleeper tight end. He was the third target on a team with significant offensive plays, showing his viability.”

Fantasy Football Insights: Deebo Samuel and Stefon Diggs 42:50

• A focus emerges on Stefon Diggs, who was once a top pick but faced a decline in performance later in the previous season. His age raises significant eyebrows, particularly as he approaches 32, which could affect his on-field productivity.
• Addressing the broader football context, players like Devonte Adams and Debo Samuel also bring concern due to their age and past injuries. While immensely talented, the question of durability and consistency comes into play, especially with Samuel’s history of not completing a full season.
• The debate centers on whether these highly drafted players can maintain their top-tier performance in an evolving game atmosphere where age and physicality start to demand adjustments.

“Debo Samuel’s unparalleled success is paired with the concern of never having played a full year, which is significant for predicting his future performance.”

Mike Evans and Fantasy Football Considerations 46:38

• The discussion highlights Mike Evans as a notable player who is achieving a significant milestone by celebrating his 31st birthday, making him one of the oldest active wide receivers in the league. Comparisons are made with younger players like Stefon Diggs, who is 29 years old, emphasizing the rarity of a player like Evans sustaining high performance at this age.
• It’s noted that Evans’ production last season showed strong numbers, but there are concerns about his fantasy value this year due to an increased draft cost and potential performance challenges as he ages. The narrative suggests that older players experience greater difficulty in maintaining consistency and performance over time.
• A key statistic reveals that, over the past decade, only three out of 11 wide receivers aged 31 or older who were drafted in the first three rounds have finished in the top 20 in fantasy points. This highlights the risks associated with drafting older players in fantasy football.
• Despite Evans’ impressive track record and his first ballot Hall of Fame potential, there is skepticism about his ability to repeat previous performances. The loss of key teammates and changes in the team dynamic further complicate his standing for this season.

“Over the last decade, there have been 11 wide receivers aged 31 and older drafted in the first three rounds, and only three finished in the top 20.”