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 Green Bay Packers.
Must Owns
Eddie Lacy, RB, (ADP:3): Lacy is a touchdown machine, and surprisingly effective in the passing game. The only issues for Lacy are injuries—he’s suffered two known concussions already—and a surprisingly low amount of carries for someone this talented. That has a lot to do with the prolific passing game of the Packers, but at least Lacy contributes through the air.
Aaron Rodgers, QB (ADP:17): Rodgers is as safe as it gets at QB. He hasn’t thrown more than eight interceptions since 2010, is a lock for 35-40 touchdowns provided he stays healthy, and is surrounded by incredible offensive weaponry. Andre Luck may have more upside in points, but Rodgers is a fine choice to be the 1st QB off the board.
Jordy Nelson, WR (ADP:21): Nelson is finally getting the respect he deserves as an upper echelon receiver. Nelson scored 13 touchdowns last season with 1,519 yards and 98 catches—all career highs. There’s no reason to think that will not continue.
Randall Cobb, WR (ADP:23): Cobb stayed healthy last season and proved his worth as a WR1 both on the actual gridiron and in fantasy. His ADP of 23, just two spots behind his teammate, is justified by his 2014 performance. However, owners shouldn’t expect 12 touchdowns again. It’s certainly possible, but he may wind up losing scores to Lacy, or other options within the offense.
Mason Crosby, K (ADP:164): Crosby is the kicker for perhaps the best offense in the NFL. He missed three attempts of 50+ yards last season, but the sheer volume of extra points and field goal attempts he will see make him a serious scorer in fantasy.
Sleepers (Best Format)
Davante Adams, WR, PPR (ADP:121): Adams was a catch machine in college, and he managed to put up solid numbers for a rookie who is a fourth option in an offense like this. Defenses have to focus so much on Cobb and Nelson that Adams may be able to get one-on-one with weaker CBs or even safeties, and do damage. He may even become a sneaky source of touchdowns.
James Starks, RB, PPR (ADP:235): Starks gets a sleeper nod because he’s the clear-cut handcuff for Lacy and if he gets significant playing time he’s absolutely a starting fantasy RB2.
Deep Finds (Best Format)
Defense/Special Teams, Standard (ADP:139): The Packers are full of playmakers like Julius Peppers, Clay Matthews, and Ha-Ha Clinton Dix. There will be games where the Packers give up a bunch of points, but they will also score touchdowns. Sometimes those high-risk, high-reward D/STs are the ones that win you a week, a playoff spot, or a fantasy title.
Richard Rodgers, TE, Standard (ADP:N/A): Rodgers is on almost nobody’s radar, but if he wins the starting gig he’s always going to be a threat to score with Aaron Rodgers throwing the passes. He’s a stash pick. Wait and see how many snaps he’s getting, and use him in a bye week if need be, or slot him in if he becomes a favorite of Aaron Rodgers.
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