NFL training camps are open, and for millions of people worldwide their fantasy football preparation has begun in earnest. Here at Sports World News we will break down all 32 NFL teams in terms of their fantasy value. Readers will find the must-own players in every format, the sleepers in specific formats, and hidden gems only necessary for those in very deep leagues.
Today's preview will be on the Dallas Cowboys.
Must Own
Dez Bryant, WR (ADP:10) Dez Bryant has an excellent chance to finish as the No. 1 wide receiver in fantasy football, and his offseason contract drama is behind him after he got his long-term deal. After three seasons of 88+ catches, 1,200+ yards and 12 or more touchdowns he’s as consistent as gravity with a high ceiling. Taking him at any point in Round 1 is not a stretch.
Joseph Randle, RB (ADP:59) Randle should not be confused for DeMarco Murray, and any overzealous Cowboys fan drafting Randle too early should beware, but going as the 25th RB off the board seems low. Randle should provide nice value in all formats, and his 6.7 yards per carry should encourage owners.
Tony Romo, QB (ADP:69) Romo is the captain of the “wait until later on drafting a QB” team. Every season Romo provides Top 10 QB production, although it is usually near the lower half. He will never have a season like Andrew Luck or Aaron Rodgers is capable of, but the mediocrity that has plagued the likes of Matt Ryan at times hasn’t afflicted Romo either. He’s solid, but be prepared for some frustrating weeks.
Darren McFadden, RB (ADP:77) You might hold your nose, but McFadden’s only being taken 18 picks after Randle. He’s a necessary handcuff; Randle is not proven as a workhorse back, and McFadden’s still talented. He’s also not as old as you think. McFadden may be able to shine behind Dallas’ mammoth O-Line and take that job from Randle.
Jason Witten, TE (ADP:85) Witten is greatly diminished from his heyday, and No. 85 overall seems a bit high. If you can snap up Witten a few rounds later then it’s wise. He will still receive his fair share of red zone targets; his receptions and yards have steadily declined the past few seasons, but 5-8 touchdowns is in play. Especially if the running game falls off without Murray.
Dan Bailey, K (ADP:162) Bailey was 5-for-7 on attempts 50+ yards out, and pretty much money in field goals within 40-49 yards. This is an excellent kicker
Sleepers (Best Format)
Terrance Williams, WR, Standard (ADP:127) Williams was somewhat disappointing in 2014, grabbing fewer catches for less yardage than his rookie season despite starting eight more games. Williams hauled in eight touchdown passes though, and could be in line for more targets without DeMarco Murray running all over the place.
Deep Finds (Best Format)
Cole Beasley, WR PPR (ADP: N/A) Beasley’s not among the Top 80 WRs in ADP right now, but he could gain value in the slot if Dallas’ running game stalls, and forces more passing from Romo. Beasley’s small, but capable of getting free in the red zone; he had four TD catches in 2014. It’ll all be about opportunity.
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