July 15th, 2008 — Analysis, Kansas City Chiefs, NFL Predictions and Speculation, Thoughts, Opinions, and Projections
Short memories can kill a fantasy player’s value. Such is the case with Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson. After putting together two of the most impressive single seasons in recent memory, Larry Johnson disappointed fans and fantasy football pundits alike in 2007 when he managed just 557 rushing yards in eight starts before an injury ended his season. Or put it out of its misery. Depends on your viewpoint, really.
Johnson, who was projected to be a top three back by virtually everyone (the only real debate was whether he’d be 2 or 3), got off to a slow start, to say the least. In his first two starts he carried the ball just 26 times for 98 yards, which prompted frustrated fantasy owners to question Herm Edwards’ plan. Then in week three L.J. was given 24 carries, which he turned into 42 yards.
March 31st, 2008 — Analysis, NFL Draft Rumors, NFL Rumors and Speculations, New England Patriots, Thoughts, Opinions, and Projections
The latest draft talk rumors have the New England Patriots considering Arkansas running back Darren McFadden, going so far as to fly the standout prospect to New England for an interview of sorts. Widely considered the most athletic player in the draft, and arguably the best prospect, McFadden has caught the attention of plenty of teams, but the Patriots are the most interesting.
It’s not because he’ll fit in well — which he likely will, with Bill Belichick making the calls — but because it begs the question, where will he fit in? Laurence Maroney was the team’s starter last season, but he missed plenty of time due to injuries. And while the Patriots managed to by without a running game (in fact, they tore opponents apart without a dominant runner), the team could clearly use a game-breaker like McFadden. McFadden could prove himself a worthy upgrade, but should the Patriots draft him and invest a massive signing bonus in a position already loaded with considerable depth and talent?
January 7th, 2008 — Fun Stuff, NFL Draft, Video
Cut and put together by our own writer, here is a highlight reel of Darren McFadden that shows why his hype is through the roof.
December 19th, 2007 — Analysis, Draft Blog, NFL Draft Rumors, NFL Predictions and Speculation, New York Jets, Thoughts, Opinions, and Projections
Many draft experts are calling Darren McFadden a carbon copy of Adrian Peterson. Some are going further than that. But regardless of how he compares to 2007’s rookie of the year, the ultimate consensus is that McFadden is a playmaker and the most electrifying player in the 2008 NFL draft.
The Jets, meanwhile, have a running game that limped through the 2007 season, ranking 28th in rushing touchdowns. The offseason addition of Thomas Jones can unofficially be considered a failed maneuver as he averages 3.6 yards per carry this season and has scored only one touchdown.
But does Eric Mangini believe the position needs improving? Not necessarily. In fact, he doesn’t mind the idea of a three-back system featuring Jones, Leon Washington, and Brad Smith.