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 Atlanta Falcons.
Must Own
Julio Jones, WR: Quarterback is the most important position in football, but in fantasy, there's no such thing. Julio Jones figures to be the best asset on this loaded group of players provided he stays healthy. Before going down with a broken foot, Jones was putting up video game numbers; he averaged 8.2 catches and 116 yards through five games. He's back now, which should open things up for the rest of the team-and confuse defenses as to who to focus on from play to play.
Roddy White, WR: White used to be a borderline first rounder-these days he's merely a high-end WR2. But high-end WR2 is still Roddy's floor-he battled injuries throughout 2013 and when healthy in the end rattled off some vintage performances. Don't dismiss the old veteran just because he's reached his 32nd name day.
Matt Ryan, QB: Ryan threw for more than 4,500 yards, and tossed 26 touchdown passes despite playing with hobbled versions of his best pass-catchers, or simply missing them entirely. Even Steven Jackson broke down in the backfield, leaving him with a soon-to-retire Tony Gonzalez and reserves.
Yes he was intercepted more than usual, but Ryan transformed slot receiver Harry Douglas into a must-start, and made good use of Jacquizz Rodgers. With his arsenal back in full force, he will knock on the door of the fantasy elite.
Steven Jackson, RB: S-Jax is someone whom it's become fashionable to dump on, but to me, he's a perfectly good option on a squad that focused on acquiring WRs, a good quarterback, or possibly even Saints TE Jimmy Graham.
Matt Bryant, K: Good leg, great offense.
Sleepers (Best format)
Devonta Freeman, RB (PPR): The rookie from Florida State could supplant Jackson if he struggles, but more likely he's just going to see limited glimpses of action when S-Jax needs a blow. If the vet goes down with an injury though, Freeman will find himself with the lion's share in a great offense that should afford him opportunities in the passing game as well.
Harry Douglas, WR (PPR): Douglas isn't the fantasy stud his numbers indicated last year, but someone's got to make up for the catches Gonzalez vacated. Douglas is obviously a different player, but he can still get the job done for the most part. He's no must-own anymore, but he will be consistent, and could be upgraded.
Deep Finds (Best format)
Jacquizz Rodgers, RB (PPR): Rodgers is currently listed as the backup, despite all the excitement about Freeman, and he was serviceable in Jackson's stead. If Freeman struggles in pass protection, fumbles, or doesn't perform, it's easy to see him taking a back seat at this stage of his career to Rodgers and learning by watching.
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