Fantasy Preseason, 8/15/11
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There's nothing unusual about offseason player movement. Big names swap teams every year. In each of the previous two seasons, roughly 20 offensive skill-position players of note changed jerseys via free agency or trades.
What's rare is the free agent that improves his fantasy stock in the year after leaving his previous team.
In 2009, only Brett Favre, Kyle Orton, Nate Washington and Kellen Winslow measurably upgraded their fantasy production from the previous season. In 2010, the standouts were Peyton Hillis, Terrell Owens and Ben Watson. Danny Woodhead and Marshawn Lynch also found happier climes after moving in-season.
Meanwhile, following the historical trend, last year's list of team-swapping disappointments was exhaustive, highlighted by such long-time fantasy stalwarts as Donovan McNabb, Thomas Jones, Brian Westbrook, Anquan Boldin, Brandon Marshall and Randy Moss.
This year's lockout, of course, has spawned an unprecedented round of free-agent musical chairs. The number of fantasy-relevant players changing zip codes this season roughly doubled from recent years, and the music hasn't stopped yet.
Who will prosper? Who will disappear? Let's examine the most significant offseason moves, broken down by the projected impact on each player's fantasy value in 2011.
MOVIN' ON UP -- Look for improved production from these six.
Kevin Kolb, QB, Cardinals -- As the unchallenged leader in Arizona, Kolb is a lock to vault up the passer rankings this year. Just how far up is the question. Consider him a borderline fantasy starter with upside.
Reggie Bush, RB, Dolphins -- After missing half of the 2010 season due to injury, a healthy Bush should fare better in Miami by default. He'll reprise his role as a lethal passing-game weapon, but rookie Daniel Thomas was drafted to be the rushing workhorse.
Plaxico Burress, WR, Jets -- Call it a shot in the dark, but I'd consider pulling the trigger on the free agent out of the Oneida Correctional Facility in the middle rounds of your draft.
First Published August 15, 2011 11:25 am
