NFL Free Agency: Impact on Fantasy Landscape
Introduction:
NFL free agency has once again caused seismic shifts in the league and subsequently, the fantasy football landscape. In this article, we will delve into the biggest signings of the 2024 offseason and analyze their impact on players’ fantasy value. The Athletic’s KC Joyner and Gary Davenport have provided their expert ratings to help us assess the changes.
Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta:
Cousins’ move to the Atlanta Falcons may have lowered his perception as a QB2, but it’s important to note that he ranks 10th in QB points per game since 2021. With the talent surrounding him in Atlanta, Cousins has the potential to replicate his previous performance. Given his likely lower ADP, he presents excellent value in later rounds.
Derrick Henry, RB, Baltimore:
Fantasy managers are understandably excited about Henry’s arrival in Baltimore. While Gus Edwards performed admirably last season, Henry’s track record speaks for itself. However, at 30 years old with over 2,000 career carries, there is a level of risk associated with this pick. The Ravens haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since Mark Ingram in 2019, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding Henry’s fantasy value in 2024.
Saquon Barkley, RB, Philadelphia:
Barkley has consistently been a top performer at the running back position, ranking fifth in PPR points per game over the past two years. Moving to an Eagles offense that boasts one of the league’s best offensive line coaches in Jeff Stoutland should only enhance his performance. Barkley is poised to be a top-three pick in fantasy drafts this year.
Austin Ekeler, RB, Washington:
Ekeler presents a fascinating lottery ticket for fantasy managers. While his contract suggests a complementary role to Brian Robinson, Ekeler’s ability to find the end zone cannot be ignored. With 38 touchdowns combined in 2021 and 2022, he has proven his scoring prowess. There is a chance that Ekeler could have a more significant role in the offense than anticipated, making him an intriguing fantasy option.
Zack Moss, RB, Cincinnati:
Moss may face competition for carries in the Bengals’ backfield, but his ability to gain significant yardage on his carries is promising. In 2023, Moss gained 10+ yards on 10.4% of his carries, just trailing Joe Mixon’s mark. This suggests that Moss can replicate Mixon’s breakaway production pace, making him a potential RB2 or RB3 in fantasy scoring this season.
Aaron Jones, RB, Minnesota:
The Green Bay Packers’ decision to sign Josh Jacobs and release Jones is puzzling. However, the Minnesota Vikings benefit greatly from this move, securing a significant upgrade over Alexander Mattison. Although Jones will turn 30 in December and the Vikings’ overall performance may be questionable, there is still value in his skillset. Fantasy managers should consider Jones as a valuable option.
Tony Pollard, RB, Tennessee:
Pollard’s previous coach in Dallas expressed doubts about his ability to handle a bell cow workload. This was evident last year as Pollard saw more playing time but experienced a drop in fantasy production. However, the Titans are likely to respect this limitation and cap his workload. This could potentially result in Pollard returning to higher fantasy production per play, making him an appealing option.
Darnell Mooney, WR, Atlanta:
Mooney’s arrival in Atlanta may initially raise concerns among fantasy managers due to the crowded pass-catching corps. However, it’s crucial to note that Atlanta made a significant investment in him. With Kyle Pitts also demanding attention, Mooney has the potential to outperform his draft position as a mid-round wide receiver.
Conclusion:
NFL free agency has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the fantasy football landscape. While some players have experienced a decrease in perceived value due to their new situations, others have the potential to thrive in their new teams. Fantasy managers should carefully consider these changes when drafting their teams for the upcoming season.