This week and next week are typically buzzing with fantasy football drafts, but I have a feeling that this year feels a bit different. The rookies are the talk of the town, and teams seem to be making trades left and right to assemble the best rosters possible. You know, just to show off to friends.
Matthew Berry, who’s the Lead NFL Fantasy Analyst at NBC Sports and also the founder of Fantasy Life, offers insight that can help anyone—from casual players to those involved in high-stakes leagues.
According to Berry, the preseason has brought about lots of movement among players, which created chances for folks to pick up players that others might overlook, focusing on cheaper options that could fit into rotation. The average draft position (ADP) can be tracked via Guillotine League’s online rankings.
Jalen Coker WR (ADP Guillotine Leagues: 228 | Sleeper: 170)
The Panthers traded Adam Thielen, sparking excitement around Minnesota’s wide receiver situation. But, honestly, many might be missing the broader potential across Carolina’s rising receivers.
Berry mentioned, “What’s interesting about this scenario is Carolina. It’s time for the fan club of Jalen Coker, the ‘Coker Heads.’ I suppose you could say I’m the ‘head of cola.’ Coker is likely to be a big slot receiver.” He also pointed out that while Carolina’s offense isn’t particularly flashy, Bryce Young did show some improvement last season.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt (ADP Guillotine Leagues 148.3 | Sleeper: 99)
Berry is banking on big things from this newcomer, nicknamed “Bill.” He’s hoping to take advantage of the space cleared by Washington to trade starter Brian Robinson Jr.
“I see him leading a committee, but it’s still a committee,” Berry explained. “I’d say he ranks among the top 30 running backs overall.” He even mentioned that this rookie could potentially outrank other established players in the league.
While it’s unlikely he takes over Austin Ekeler on passing downs, Croskey-Merritt is ready to step up, especially as Washington aims to keep starting quarterback Jayden Daniels healthy throughout the season. Berry’s projection places him well within the top 50 players for draft day, noting a significant drop in ADP recently.
Shawn Tucker (ADP Guillotine League 219 | Sleeper: 635)
Tucker appears to be the third running back in Tampa Bay, following Bucky Irving and Rachard White, yet Berry mentioned he has some inside information about Tucker’s potential.
Berry noted, “I mentioned Sean Tucker because I got a solid tip from someone in Tampa Bay who believes Tucker has what it takes to become the top running back in this league.” He acknowledged that while Bucky Irving is solid, there are questions about White’s effectiveness and whether he’s truly favored. If Irving struggles, Tucker could definitely break out this season, especially after a strong showing at Syracuse.
Overall, there’s a lot of speculation and excitement surrounding these players as drafts approach, and it seems like anything could happen. Who knows? Fantasy football can be unpredictable like that.
