Fantasy Football Intel Report 1.4

Amari Cooper, WR Oakland Raiders

Source- Bill Williamson, ESPN Staff Writer

According to Williamson, Amari Cooper has made some instant changes to the wide receiver spot for Oakland. He goes on to assert that Cooper was the best addition to the team this year, even considering that the Raiders scored 12 free agents during the offseason. He believes (and so do I) that Cooper can break the 1,000 yard receiving yards mark this season. If that happens, he would be the first to do so for the Raiders since Randy Moss, back in 2005.

Analysis: I tend to rate rookies a little lower than most. Last year, I was wrong about rookies, especially the receivers. I am going to ride the trend this year. Scouts are saying that he looks to be one of the most polished receivers out of this draft class. As Oakland’s No. 1 receiver, I have him ranked 24th amongst wideouts. He’s going to see a lot of targets this year.

Randell Johnson, LB Buffalo Bills

Source- Mike Rodak, ESPN Staff Writer

According to ESPN’s Mike Rodak, Randell Johnson could be a nice backup option this year for the Bills. He states that the 24 year old linebacker has a 75 percent chance of making the roster. Johnson did play as Manny Lawson’s backup last year. Rodak goes on to explain that Johnson is the bigger linebacker at 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds. The competition that faces doesn’t look tough either.

Analysis: If you’re looking to add future depth to maybe an IDP dynasty league, he’s a good option for that. As a backup, he’s an injury away from playing for one of the best defensive minds in the game, head coach Rex Ryan. He has good size, and I believe he’ll eventually do well as strong side linebacker. We’ll watch his progress throughout and see if he somehow doesn’t get a full time job in this defense.

Matt Ryan, QB Atlanta Falcons

Source- Kyle Borgognoni, Falcons Correspondent

New offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan said he’s “excited to work with Ryan.” He even went on to say he’s the best quarterback he’s had to work with. Sources are telling me that even with a more balanced approach, they expect Ryan to see around 600 attempts this year.

Analysis: I think Matt Ryan is being a little underrated, as far as the ADP’s suggest. He’s typically going in the 6th or 7th round. The Falcons are quietly building a power offense, and with Shanahan’s system and Ryan’s ability, I would be okay taking him in the 5th round once I have my running backs and some receivers set. If the Falcons use Ryan like they say they will, don’t be surprised to see this guy finishing top three. I have him ranked as the fifth best quarterback this year.