Chargers' RB sleepers, Antonio Gibson Swiss army knife, Terry McLaurin haunts DBs, and more.
We have a solid rundown for you this week, so let’s get to it:
News & Notes:
The 2020 NFL schedule has been released! Take a peekski.
A lot of 2017 1st round selections had their 5th year options declined this year. Here’s a handy list tracking which players had their option exercised or declined. Notable offensive player declines include QB M. Trubisky, RB L. Fournette, WR C. Davis, and WR J. Ross.
Chargers dead set on involving Justin Jackson and fourth-rounder Joshua Kelley behind Austin Ekeler this year.
DeCosta: Ravens want to use all four RBs next season.
RB Chris Thompson signing with the Jaguars.
QB Andy Dalton is signing a one-year deal with the Cowboys.
RB Marshawn Lynch in talks on return with Seahawks.
RB Frank Gore is signing a 1-year deal with the Jets.
WR Brandin Cooks: “As far as the concussions, I’m doing great. I look forward to playing football and that’s all I can say about that." Sounds excited about his opportunity with the Texans.
RB Devontae Booker signing with the Raiders.
Theory and Analysis Articles:
Predicting breakout rookie wide receivers using PFF grades and dominator rating.
FF Astronauts’ Post-Draft Model Rankings: 2020 Running Backs.
In depth breakdown of Bengals rookie WR Tee Higgins.
Can D.J. Moore continue to thrive with Teddy?
Billy's Film Session: Terry McLaurin is a defensive back's worst nightmare.
Film Room: Why rookie WR CeeDee Lamb was the steal of the draft.
Twitter thread analyzing RB D’Andre Swift.
NFL Rookie Profile: WR Henry Ruggs III.
FantasyPros: Second-Year Players Ready to Break out in 2020.
FantasyPros: Who will be the top WR from the 2020 draft?
Rookie RB face-off: D'Andre Swift vs. Cam Akers vs. JK Dobbins.
Since TEs are getting largely ignored, here’s a top 7 rookie TE rankings.
The Hype:
All coaches love their rookie selections. But Colts HC Frank Reich loves Michael Pittman JR. Another piece: “Michael Pittman Jr. Is Exactly What The Colts Wanted In A Receiver.”
'He's A Swiss Army Knife': Redskins plan to use RB Antonio Gibson as a weapon.
Cleveland rookie TE Harrison Bryant had great success out of the slot.
TE Noah Fant poised for a breakout 2nd year season.
DeCosta on RB J.K. Dobbins: "We think he's a three-down back. He's been extremely durable. He's an outstanding fit for what we like to do."
Thread discussing why it might be okay to buy high on WR AJ Brown.
Pay attention when Bruce Arians drafts a RB early.
PFF: Only 3 RBs have forced 100+ tackles on rushing attempts since 2018. Also: Most missed tackles forced on receptions by WR/TE since 2018.
There’s been so much speculation surrounding whether QB Jarrett Stidham will or will not be the starting QB in week 1. Sometimes where there’s smoke, there’s fire.
Mini profile for 49ers UDFA RB JaMycal Hasty.
Cold Water:
Bottom-5 RBs in yards after contact per rush in 2019 [minimum 100 carries].
A critique by Greg Cosell on WR Chase Claypool.
QB Daniel Jones was 48.8% accurate on throws that travelled further than 10 yards downfield last year. Only Ryan Fitzpatrick was worse.
Some Great Podcasts From the Week:
Footballguys just launched a brand-new podcast with a dynasty focus.
Dynasty Blueprint does a rookie mock draft with Matt Kelley.
Destination Devy Podcast discussing favorite rookie landing spots with Derek Brown.
Dynasty Nerds 1st round superflex rookie mock draft. 2nd round.
Miscellaneous:
Handy updated list of UDFA signings for all 32 teams.
You deserve better defensive scoring.
Fractional field goal scoring is now available on Yahoo Fantasy Football.
Hope you enjoyed it! Until next week, let’s connect on Twitter. You can also reply directly to this email with any questions or feedback.