NFL Draft's Make or Break Fantasy Picks

By: Richard Oh
Football Review Daily

Football season is back. And that can only mean one thing: Fantasy football has returned.

Who could forget Adrian Peterson’s spectacular year? Marshawn Lynch’s solid rookie debut and Brady Quinn’s fade into fantasy oblivion were just some of the big storylines from last year’s rookie class. And while this year’s first round draft showcased a lot of defensive players as well as offensive linemen, everyone knows that the offensive skill players will make or break your 2008 fantasy season.

Here are some of my picks that will make or break your team.

Make

Matt Ryan, QB, ATL

Matt Ryan takes over as the face of the franchise. With only Joey Harrington standing in his way, Ryan might start in week 1. While the Falcons may not have any receiving threats, RB Michael Turner in his first starting season, may help the rookie open up the Atlanta passing game.

Jonathan Stewart, RB, CAR

Jonathan Stewart will take over RB duties after the Panthers cut DeShaun Foster. While incumbent DeAngelo Williams is still with Carolina, he is better suited as a change-of-pace RB, and is not the power rusher that Carolina needs. Stewart fills that role nicely and should play a major role in Carolina’s running game this year.

Darren McFadden, RB, OAK

Darren McFadden enters a horrible situation in Oakland with several RBs blocking his path to NFL stardom. But owner Al Davis did not draft McFadden to sit on the sidelines. McFadden will bring his blazing speed to the table, and I expect a decent season from him. QB Jamarcus Russell is still inexperienced, so expect Oakland to run the ball often.

Felix Jones, RB, DAL

With Julius Jones gone, Felix Jones will step in and be the speed back coexisting with RB Marion Barber. While he may have to split carries, Jones will utilize his speed and I expect decent numbers from the rookie RB.

James Hardy, WR, BUF

James Hardy should benefit from the double coverage that Lee Evans often receives. With his 6-5 frame, Hardy should be one of QB Trent Edwards’ favorite red zone targets.

Break

Joe Flacco, QB, BAL

Joe Flacco reminds me of former starter Kyle Boller. Strong arm, but without a QB’s mind to dissect an NFL defense. Expect a lot of turnovers and mental struggles from the young QB, as the Ravens will miss Steven McNair.

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, PIT

Rashard Mendenhall comes into a decent situation with RB Willie Parker still recovering from injuries. Although Mendenhall has plenty of talent, his style does not seem apt to fit into the Steelers offense, and I expect him to struggle with the team. The Steelers need a power runner, and Mendenhall isn’t it.

Chris Johnson, RB, TEN

After last year’s pick of Chris Henry, one would think GM Mike Reinfieldt wouldn’t want to mess with another RB, but he did it again with Chris Johnson. Johnson is just as overrated as Henry was, and I expect Johnson to struggle as much as Henry did last year.

Who made your rookie list of makes or breaks for the upcoming season? Feel free to leave a comment.