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 Philadelphia Eagles.
Must Own
DeMarco Murray, RB (ADP:11) Murray was the NFL’s leading rusher last season, and even though he won’t have the top offensive line in the NFL paving holes, he is in a prolific rushing offense. Chip Kelly’s scheme requires a lot of running, but after nearly 400 carries last year, will he see a dramatic workload reduction? A look at the Eagles’ RB depth hints yes, so be careful investing a first rounder in Murray.
Jordan Matthews, WR, (ADP:42) With Jeremy Maclin gone, Matthews is considered the new No. 1 in town. He had eight touchdowns last season, along with 63 receptions and 872 yards. If he assumes Maclin’s role, then he will be a steal at 42 overall. If that goes to another WR in Eagles camp though, Matthews will be a disappointment relative to his ADP.
Nelson Agholor, WR, (ADP:94) Agholor was a three-year starter at USC with 12 touchdowns last season, with more than 100 receptions. At 6’0, Agholor’s build is much closer to Maclin’s than Matthews’ is, and if he becomes the target-hound that Maclin was Agholor could become a premier bargain.
Ryan Mathews, RB (ADP:106) Mathews is the 38th RB off the board, and that slot means VALUE. Murray’s insane workload in Dallas is not something Philadelphia is likely to repeat, especially with Murray’s past injuries. Instead, expect Mathews to receive a fair amount of work. With Kelly’s uptempo pace, Mathews will probably not come off the field when he starts a drive, and that might warrant Mathews as a low-end FLEX. At the very least, he’s a valuable handcuff.
Defense/Special Teams Last season the Eagles D led all D/STs in touchdowns (8), and they spread them out between returns, interceptions and fumbles. The addition of Kiko Alonso to the linebacker corps will only improve a top unit. They have No. 1 D/ST upside.
Sleepers (Best Format)
Zach Ertz, TE, Standard (ADP:89) Ertz is the eighth TE off the board right now, but he really should be treated as a high-upside sleeper. Ertz’ athletic ability is undeniable, but he has another capable TE to contend with in Brent Celek, who is a better blocker. Ertz is a pure pass-catcher, and in Chip Kelly’s offense he just isn’t going to see as many targets as he would elsewhere.
Sam Bradford, QB, Standard (ADP:139) Bradford is the 16th QB off the board, marking him for a clear No. 2 QB. His upside with Philadelphia is higher though. In St. Louis he battled injuries year after year behind a porous offensive line and rarely had worthwhile receivers. Now, the line is better and so are his targets. If Nick Foles can fly, why can’t a former No. 1 overall pick?
Deep Finds (Best Format)
Darren Sproles, RB PPR (ADP:134) Sproles is the RB3 on Philly’s depth chart right now, but the fragility of Murray and Mathews means Sproles might have an avenue to playing time real quick. If Sproles’ role increases, he will be highly productive in PPR formats.
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