Dale Zanine-USATODAY Sports
It can be a tough decision when a fantasy owner has to decide between two standout wide receivers from the Atlanta Falcons.
Both are incredibly talented with great sets of hands. While one is able to beat defenders with his speed and quickness, the others exceptional route running allows him to break away from the defense to find himself open quite a bit.
Now you have to pick between the two playmakers. Are you going to take Roddy White or are you going to take Julio Jones?
Jones hasn’t been in the league nearly as long as White, but he has shown flashes of a future Hall-of-Fame receiver. His size and speed gives him a huge advantage against undersized defensive backs, allowing him to gain yards after the catch.
However, Jones played just five games last season after breaking his foot for a second time. He was nearly halfway to his 2012 season total for receiving yards in less than half the playing time before being sidelined. And even though it is the second time he has broken his right foot, fantasy owners should pursue the young Jones over the aging White.
The 32-year-old White has had a storied career, catching 685 passes in 141 games played. Last season marked the first time he failed to make an appearance in a game and did so three times. He has 55 career touchdown catches and is still a threat to opposing defenses.
However, White has slowed in recent years and total receptions and touchdown receptions have had a steady drop over the last four seasons. He failed to record at least six touchdown catches for the first time since 2007 and did not have a reception longer than 40 yards for the first time in his career.
Last season’s total receiving yards, targets and catches that resulted in a first down were also the lowest since 2006.
Jones may be susceptible to a foot injury, but he remains the biggest offensive threat for the Falcons. His numbers are nearly identical to that of his teammate’s in eight fewer games. He has averaged at least 14 yards a reception in all three of his pro seasons and has had at least one 80-yard catch every year of his career.
As long as Jones stays healthy, he will provide plenty of points for fantasy owners in whatever league they are playing in.
Trey Warren is a Dallas Cowboys writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on twitter@treydwarren and add him to your network on Google.
