Fantasy Football: Intel Report 2.2

 

 

Matt Flynn, Quarterback Free Agent: If there was ever a glimmer of hope that Matt Flynn may steal the No. 2 QB slot from second-year pro Jimmy Garoppolo, that has faded into a 0% chance. According to Mike Reiss of ESPN, the Patriots plan to release Flynn in order to make room for former Arizona Cardinal Ryan Lindley. It’s unclear why this move was made, since Lindley is one of four quarterbacks since the AFL-NFL merger to have a season with 11 interceptions and two or less touchdowns.

Analysis: The Patriots have more concerns at quarterback other than who their third string is, but they do need to decide on the right man behind Garoppolo. As it stands, Tom Brady is still out four games, and if Garoppolo goes, it could spell trouble in Foxborough. I thought Flynn would’ve been the better fit, but who am I to question four-time champion coach Bill Belichick. Regardless of who gets the third string nod, I wouldn’t draft him.

 

 
Shaun Suisham, Kicker Pittsburgh Steelers: If you drafted Suisham, then you may want to add/drop for another kicker. In Sunday’s HOF game, Suisham tore his ACL trying to make a tackle. As it stands, Suisham is the only kicker on the Steelers roster, and it’s still unclear who they’re going to hire to replace him.

Analysis: If this is the biggest injury on your team this year, you’re in great shape. Personally, I feel bad for the guy, but from a fantasy standpoint, it’s just a kicker. You should be able to find guys like Caleb Sturgis or Blair Walsh to replace him. No need to freak out yet.

 

 
Niles Paul, Tight End Washington Redskins: Coach Gruden made quite a splash the other day by putting Niles Paul as the starter on the team depth chart. Some teams start making early depth charts as motivational tools for the players to try to push harder to win a starting role. Paul has reportedly improved his blocking quite a bit which may have warranted the move. It’s still preseason, which leaves four weeks for Jordan Reed to claim that spot back.

Analysis: It’s no secret that the Redskins have had trouble passing the football in recent years. With Robert Griffen III under center, expect a slight increase in Paul’s states this upcoming season (assuming he says as the TE1 option for the Skins). Paul could be a sleeper this year, he overall should be seen as a TE2 option in fantasy.