Fantasy Football: Potential Busts in 2009
These are guys that might not have as good a season as most people think. It could be because they went to a new team, injuries, change of coach, or just expectations that are just two high. Take caution when drafting these players because they could disappoint you during the season. I’m not saying don’t take these players at all, just don’t take them as high. Lower your expectations for these players.
Matt Cassel, QB, Chiefs:
Don’t expect the New England Patriots Matt Cassel just yet. He will eventually be good, but just not this seasons. Remember this: despite having arguably the best offensive line in the league around him, Cassel took the most sacks of any signal-caller last season (47). And despite having a great receiver in Randy Moss, Cassel struggled to complete passes in the red zone. With that being said the Chiefs don’t have nearly the same O-line and offensive weapons that the Patriots do, so expect some struggling early. Worse the Chiefs traded away Tony Gonzalez, who was their most reliable target. Look else where when your taking a QB to build your team around this year.
Eli Manning, QB, Giants:
Eli Manning has name value and is a good real life QB. His fantasy value though should not be as high. With his name and team that he plays for, he will for sure be drafted as a starter. But realistically he is not that good of a fantasy QB this year. Look at the weapons he’s lost in the passing game. Plaxico and Amani Toomer are both gone leaving a somewhat young and unproven receiver corps. I think you could find a better QB situation than that.
Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals:
I have Warner here purely on the fact that he is older and a huge injury risk. Last season was the first time he played a full 16 games since 2001. Can he do it again, we’ll have to find out. If you take him early you run the risk of getting nothing out of the pick, like Brady last year. But if he does stay health, he could easily be the number 1 fantasy QB. If you’re a gambler take him, if not don’t and look for a safer pick.
Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles:
Westbrook is one of the best duel-threats in the league when he is health. It’s just staying health, that’s the problem. He always seems like he is always playing with an injury or is a game time decision. Don’t get me wrong this guy can win a week by himself, I just think he is an injury risk. He will also have to deal with LeSean McCoy taking carries and possibly even Micheal Vick. Lower your expectations a little bit on him this year, but take him if he is their in the 2nd round.
Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins:
All most half of his touchdowns last season came in one game against the Patriots. He also has to deal with Ricky Williams taking his carries. In my opinion, he shouldn’t be drafted in the top 30.
Terrell Owens, WR, Bills:
I’m not saying I would stay completely away from him this year, just not as high as his name will get him drafted. Owens will be working with arguably the least-talented quarterback of his career, Trent Edwards. He’s also now 35-years-old and bound to decline sometime soon and he’s going to have to play a lot of cold-weather games. That is something that is not going to help his many dropped passes. He could have a solid year, but just not what everyone is thinking and where you would have to draft him. Look for a less expensive option.
Antonio Bryant, WR, Bucs:
He had very good numbers in 2008 but he has never been very consistent in his career. He also has to deal with a new coach and uncertainty at QB. I wouldn’t take Bryant this year cause he has bust written all over him.
Image Source: AP
