Name: Jacquizz Rodgers
Team: Atlanta Falcons
Position: Running Back
Years Pro: 2
Draft stock: (Stagnant) Since the Falcons brought Steven Jackson to town this offseason, Rodgers has been given the cold shoulder by many fantasy football pundits. Also, some believe that Rodgers failed in his role last season and that Atlanta is starting to see the third-year back as a bust at this point.
2012 fantasy impact: Michael Turner was once again the starter, but the load was split pretty evenly between the two backs. Rodgers didn’t emerge as the every-down back that the Falcons had hoped as he rushed for under 400 yards and reached the endzone a mere two times. However, Rodgers did improve in the passing game where he was a menace on third downs and had finished the year with 402 yard receiving.
Best-case scenario: Jackson gets hurt and the Falcons have no choice but to feed Rodgers on an every down basis, or Jackson stay healthy but is relegated to a smaller role and Rodgers shines.
Worst-case scenario: Atlanta relies so heavily on Jackson that Rodgers isn’t really needed in the Falcons’ offense. In fact, Rodgers doesn’t even crack 100 receiving yards in 2013.
Where you should draft him: Due to Jackson’s age, many are drafting Rodgers under the theory that he will eventually take over the starting gig. Don’t do that…Instead, draft Rodgers around the 11th round knowing that he’s a mere back up.
Devin O’Barr is the Content Commentator for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DevinOBarrRS, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
