|
Savvy, dynasty league owners as well as the more casual, re-draft owners will need to know the names of this draft class’ individual players, as many impact players were selected as well as some lesser-known names that could make immediate impacts. Let’s take a look at how the 32 teams drafted IDPs and how their rookies will make fantasy impacts in 2009 and beyond.
Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals grabbed a couple DEs in Cody Brown and Will Davis in this draft. Brown could project out as a LB and both players are regarded as athletic pass rushers, but will need some level of seasoning before making a major impact. They didn’t select any “true” LBs (a position of need going into this draft), but did land a solid sleeper in safety Rashad Johnson. At this point, the safety spot isn’t a concern, with Antrel Rolle and Adrian Wilson locked in, but Johnson is a big-time playmaker that could make an impact as a situational player. Should either of the Card starters go down, Johnson’s stock would skyrocket. The Cards also grabbed CB Greg Toler, who is a small-school wonder project.
Atlanta Falcons: The Falcons selected a few IDPs that may have an immediate impact. First, they drafted Peria Jerry, who should be the opening starter in the middle of the defensive line. He won’t be an impact most re-draft teams, but could be a solid backup DL in larger dynasty leagues. They also landed safety William Moore, who will challenge for playing time from day one. He’s a ballhawk that has battled some injuries, so temper your expectations. CB Christopher Owens is another aggressive defender that should fit the Falcons’ scheme well, but won’t have an immediate fantasy impact. The biggest impact could be from DE Lawrence Sidbury, who will challenge for playing time, especially if Jamaal Anderson flops. CB William Middleton is a small-school project that will likely play special teams, if he makes the squad. And finally, Spencer Adkins, an undersized LB who also projects out as a special teams player.
Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens are not short on aggressive pass rushers, but still opted to grab DE Paul Kruger with their second round pick. At his size, he’ll likely transition to the OLB spot. CB Ladarius Webb comes from a small school, but appears to have big-time talent. Like many Raven defensive backs, he’s a ballhawk that can pull off the “pick-six” with relative ease. He’ll compete for time, but likely not enough to make an immediate fantasy impact. With their fifth-rounder, the Ravens grabbed ILB Jason Phillips, a high-motor guy that can play all three downs. Should there be a major injury on the Raven linebacking corps, Phillips could slide in.
 You must be a Huddle Member to continue reading this article or feature.
|
|
