Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
It serves as a Christmas in April for die hard football fans everywhere. It gives fans something to look forward to and focus on until the season actually starts.
It is none other than the NFL Draft.
Despite a first round that focused strongly on offensive lineman (eight were drafted), there were still a few skilled position players taken in the first round in this year’s draft. Some of them may be on a handful of fantasy radars heading into the 2013 campaign. Let’s take a look at some of the young guys who stood out to me.
EJ Manuel, Buffalo Bills: By far the most shocking pick of the draft, the Bills selected the Florida State product after trading back to the 16th pick. Many believed they would take Ryan Nassib, considering the Syracuse connection between he and head coach Doug Marrone. Either way, Manuel is their guy and I personally believe they wouldn’t have reached on him if they aren’t planning on starting him. Manuel has the size (6’5″, 248) and athletic ability to do well in an offense that should feature C.J. Spiller, but he still has to work on some of his mechanics. Manuel will be more of a dynasty league draft pick in fantasy league, but watch how he progresses over the course of the season.
Tavon Austin, St. Louis Rams: Austin holds the most fantasy value among all rookies this year. He will immediately be quarterback Sam Bradford’s favorite weapon and has the skills to become a Percy Harvin kind of player. Great speed, tremendous versatility, and with the departure of running back Steven Jackson, don’t be surprised if you see Austin in the backfield many times during the year. If Bradford can finally put it together, Austin will be a nice fantasy sleeper in 2013, with huge upside.
DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans: I love this pick from the Texans. They finally addressed their need at wideout to complement superstar Andre Johnson. Hopkins has some strong all around skills at the wide receiver position, great hands, can catch in traffic, plays physical and wears out defenders. He’ll be learning from one of the best receivers in the game today and is worth a late flier in leagues this year.
Cordarrelle Patterson, Minnesota Vikings: Watching Patterson’s highlights, I think he has the chance to be the best receiver in this draft class. He too will be learning from a veteran wide receiver in newly acquired Greg Jennings. Patterson has great versatility, can make people miss in the open field, sees the field well and will likely return some kicks for the Vikings this season. Of course, Christian Ponder isn’t exactly what you call consistent and that offense lives and dies by the run. Still, fantasy owners should keep a close eye on Patterson throughout the season.
Adam Pfeifer is a featured fantasy sports columnist for Rant Sports.
You can follow him on Twiter @aPfeiferRS.
