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Offseason Extra: 12-team, PPR mock draft

Jamey Eisenberg
Senior Fantasy Writer
  •  

The NFL season is officially over now that the Giants defeated the Patriots 21-17 in Super Bowl XLVI. But since we're always looking ahead, we wanted to give you a mock draft to mull over heading into the offseason.

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We've already done a standard 12-team mock draft, so this time around we're looking at a 12-team, point-per-reception format. The idea is to focus on players who catch the ball since many Fantasy owners now prefer to play in PPR leagues because of the challenge and increased scoring.

As always, we ask you to share your thoughts. Take advantage of our Fantasy Football Twitter feed (@CBSFantasyFB) and post your comments there or share your thoughts on our Fantasy Football Facebook page.

In this league all touchdowns are worth six points, and we award one point for every 10 yards rushing and receiving and one point for every 25 yards passing. Running backs, wide receivers and tight ends also earn one point for every reception. We feature a starting lineup of QB, 2 RB, 2 WR, TE, K, DST and a FLEX (RB/WR/TE).

There will also be five reserve spots for a 14-round draft. This lineup reflects our CBSSports.com free Fantasy Football game.

Our draft order is as follows:

Pick
Owner
Pick
Owner
1 Kevin Goodwin, Fantasy Writer 7 Peter Madden, Editorial Director, Fantasy Sports
2 J. Darin Darst, College Football Editor 8 Bill Passonno, Fantasy Writer
3 Al Melchior, Data Analyst 9 Jeff Tobin, Associate Managing Editor
4 Will Brinson, Senior NFL Blogger 10 Alex Riethmiller, VP, Communications
5 Jim Lanzone, President, CBS Interactive 11 Dave Richard, Senior Fantasy Writer
6 Adam Aizer, Podcast Host 12 Jamey Eisenberg, Senior Fantasy Writer

Editor's Note: Our Jamey Eisenberg shares his post-draft thoughts on each round and every roster.

Round by Round
Round 1
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Arian Foster, RB, HOU
2 Darst Ray Rice, RB, BAL
3 Melchior LeSean McCoy, RB, PHI
4 Brinson Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, JAC
5 Lanzone Calvin Johnson, WR, DET
6 Aizer Aaron Rodgers, QB, GB
7 Madden Matt Forte, RB, CHI
8 Passonno Roddy White, WR, ATL
9 Tobin Drew Brees, QB, NO
10 Riethmiller Ryan Mathews, RB, SD
11 Richard Marshawn Lynch, RB, SEA
12 Eisenberg Andre Johnson, WR, HOU
The first round of a PPR draft is always interesting to see when the first receiver and quarterback will be drafted. Johnson at No. 5 is a solid choice after the Top 4 running backs, and Rodgers at No. 6 is safe, especially with passing touchdowns still six points. The riskiest selection might be Andre Johnson at No. 12 instead of a running back like Chris Johnson or Jamaal Charles.
Round 2
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE
2 Richard Jimmy Graham, TE, NO
3 Riethmiller Wes Welker, WR, NE
4 Tobin Hakeem Nicks, WR, NYG
5 Passonno Jamaal Charles, RB, KC
6 Madden Darren McFadden, RB, OAK
7 Aizer Larry Fitzgerald, WR, ARI
8 Lanzone Cam Newton, QB, CAR
9 Brinson Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN
10 Melchior Greg Jennings, WR, GB
11 Darst Tom Brady, QB, NE
12 Goodwin Mike Wallace, WR, PIT
The tight end run was expected here, but this might be a little early. But if you want to lock up Gronkowski and Graham, especially in this format, you have to take them in Round 2. Seeing Newton taken ahead of Brady is a little surprising, and this is too early for Peterson coming off his knee injury in Week 16.
Round 3
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Frank Gore, RB, SF
2 Darst Victor Cruz, WR, NYG
3 Melchior Matthew Stafford, QB, DET
4 Brinson Chris Johnson, RB, TEN
5 Lanzone DeMarco Murray, RB, DAL
6 Aizer Jordy Nelson, WR, GB
7 Madden Michael Vick, QB, PHI
8 Passonno Brandon Marshall, WR, MIA
9 Tobin A.J. Green, WR, CIN
10 Riethmiller Steven Jackson, RB, STL
11 Richard Darren Sproles, RB, NO
12 Eisenberg Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, NYG
Johnson should be a steal here, especially going after Gore. Murray could also prove to be tremendous value and Sproles was an excellent selection since he should remain productive in 2012. This is the round where you will likely see owners draft Nelson and Cruz with the hope they replicate their performances from this year in 2012.
Round 4
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Michael Turner, RB, ATL
2 Richard Miles Austin, WR, DAL
3 Riethmiller Percy Harvin, WR, MIN
4 Tobin Fred Jackson, RB, BUF
5 Passonno Marques Colston, WR, NO
6 Madden Julio Jones, WR, ATL
7 Aizer Roy Helu, RB, WAS
8 Lanzone Antonio Gates, TE, SD
9 Brinson Steve Smith, WR, CAR
10 Melchior Reggie Bush, RB, MIA
11 Darst Dez Bryant, WR, DAL
12 Goodwin Vincent Jackson, WR, SD
The running back drop-off started here with Turner, who is on the decline and not a good selection in PPR leagues. Jackson and Bush could also struggle and Helu has plenty of question marks even if he presents the most upside. Gates is selected ahead of Aaron Hernandez, which could be risky, and the run on No. 2 receivers started here.
Round 5
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Dwayne Bowe, WR, KC
2 Darst Shonn Greene, RB, NYJ
3 Melchior Aaron Hernandez, TE, NE
4 Brinson Vernon Davis, TE, SF
5 Lanzone Jeremy Maclin, WR, PHI
6 Aizer C.J. Spiller, RB, BUF
7 Madden DeSean Jackson, WR, PHI
8 Passonno Jason Witten, TE, DAL
9 Tobin Michael Bush, RB, OAK
10 Riethmiller Philip Rivers, QB, SD
11 Richard Eli Manning, QB, NYG
12 Eisenberg Beanie Wells, RB, ARI
Spiller was drafted too early here since he will split time with Jackson next season, and Bush could be a steal in this round if he leaves the Raiders as a free agent. The run on quarterbacks started with Rivers, Manning and then Romo in Round 6, and this will be when owners lock up their starter with the second-tier of passers.
Round 6
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Tony Romo, QB, DAL
2 Richard Demaryius Thomas, WR, DEN
3 Riethmiller LeGarrette Blount, RB, TB
4 Tobin Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
5 Passonno DeAngelo Williams, RB, CAR
6 Madden Mario Manningham, WR, NYG
7 Aizer Reggie Wayne, WR, IND
8 Lanzone Willis McGahee, RB, DEN
9 Brinson Ben Roethlisberger, QB, PIT
10 Melchior Brandon Lloyd, WR, STL
11 Darst Antonio Brown, WR, PIT
12 Goodwin Matt Ryan, QB, ATL
Three receivers drafted here -- Manningham, Wayne and Lloyd -- are free agents this offseason, and where they land will determine their value. If all three stay with their current teams then Lloyd has the most upside unless Peyton Manning returns at 100 percent, which would help Wayne. We would not like Wayne much if Andrew Luck is his starting quarterback.
Round 7
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Tony Gonzalez, TE, ATL
2 Darst Fred Davis, TE, WAS
3 Melchior Steve Johnson, WR, BUF
4 Brinson Kenny Britt, WR, TEN
5 Lanzone Rashard Mendenhall, RB, PIT
6 Aizer Brent Celek, TE, PHI
7 Madden Malcom Floyd, WR, SD
8 Passonno Jahvid Best, RB, DET
9 Tobin Torrey Smith, WR, BAL
10 Riethmiller Dallas Clark, TE, IND
11 Richard Laurent Robinson, WR, DAL
12 Eisenberg Mikel Leshoure, RB, DET
Britt could prove to be the best player selected in this round if he returns at 100 percent following his torn ACL early this season. Mendenhall is a good value pick here, but he also has to prove his health following a torn ACL in Week 17. Two of my favorite sleepers were drafted in this round in Smith and Leshoure, who should be Detroit's starting running back in 2012.
Round 8
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Sidney Rice, WR, SEA
2 Richard Jonathan Stewart, RB, CAR
3 Riethmiller Mike Williams, WR, TB
4 Tobin Peyton Hillis, RB, CLE
5 Passonno Matt Schaub, QB, HOU
6 Madden Mike Tolbert, RB, SD
7 Aizer Isaac Redman, RB, PIT
8 Lanzone Michael Crabtree, WR, SF
9 Brinson Toby Gerhart, RB, MIN
10 Melchior Pierre Thomas, RB, NO
11 Darst Denarius Moore, WR, OAK
12 Goodwin Ben Tate, RB, HOU
More sleepers went off the board in this round with Redman, Gerhart and Moore. Redman and Gerhart should open the season as starters in Pittsburgh and Minnesota, respectively, with Mendenhall and Peterson coming off injuries. And Moore should be the No. 1 option in Oakland's passing game. Stewart could also be a steal here, and Rice should rebound in 2012.
Round 9
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Brandon Pettigrew, TE, DET
2 Darst Daniel Thomas, RB, MIA
3 Melchior Anquan Boldin, WR, BAL
4 Brinson Santonio Holmes, WR, NYJ
5 Lanzone Tim Tebow, QB, DEN
6 Aizer Santana Moss, WR, WAS
7 Madden Mark Ingram, RB, NO
8 Passonno Cedric Benson, RB, CIN
9 Tobin Titus Young, WR, DET
10 Riethmiller Peyton Manning, QB, IND
11 Richard Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, OAK
12 Eisenberg Lance Moore, WR, NO
Boldin is going to fall in drafts in 2012 and he should be drafted behind Smith. But he's still a steal in this round, and his value is higher in PPR formats. Young is another sleeper, and he should emerge as the starter opposite Calvin Johnson. The steal of this round could be Peyton Manning if he returns at 100 percent.
Round 10
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Stevan Ridley, RB, NE
2 Richard BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB, NE
3 Riethmiller James Starks, RB, GB
4 Tobin Jabar Gaffney, WR, WAS
5 Passonno Greg Little, WR, CLE
6 Madden Felix Jones, RB, DAL
7 Aizer Evan Royster, RB, WAS
8 Lanzone DST 49ers
9 Brinson Sam Bradford, QB, STL
10 Melchior Andy Dalton, QB, CIN
11 Darst Montario Hardesty, RB, CLE
12 Goodwin Brandon Jacobs, RB, NYG
Ridley was drafted ahead of Green-Ellis, which is the right move to make even if Green-Ellis returns to New England as a free agent. Green-Ellis is a step above a goal-line back, and Ridley has much more upside. Hardesty was an excellent pick in this round since he could open as Cleveland's starter with Peyton Hillis a free agent.
Round 11
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Pierre Garcon, WR, IND
2 Darst Carson Palmer, QB, OAK
3 Melchior Danny Amendola, WR, STL
4 Brinson Nate Washington, WR, TEN
5 Lanzone Doug Baldwin, WR, SEA
6 Aizer Nate Burleson, WR, DET
7 Madden Jermaine Gresham, TE, CIN
8 Passonno Preston Parker, WR, TB
9 Tobin Jay Cutler, QB, CHI
10 Riethmiller DST Steelers
11 Richard Donald Brown, RB, IND
12 Eisenberg Jon Baldwin, WR, KC
There were great value picks in this round with Amendola, who should be a standout PPR option if he returns at 100 percent following an elbow injury, and Brown, who could open the season as the starter for the Colts. Gresham is also a potential Top 12 tight end, and Washington was the best receiver for the Titans this season with Britt out.
Round 12
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg Vincent Brown, WR, SD
2 Richard Ryan Williams, RB, ARI
3 Riethmiller Mike Thomas, WR, JAC
4 Tobin Ryan Grant, RB, GB
5 Passonno Kendall Hunter, RB, SF
6 Madden Joe Flacco, QB, BAL
7 Aizer Leonard Hankerson, WR, WAS
8 Lanzone David Akers, K, SF
9 Brinson Davone Bess, WR, MIA
10 Melchior DST Ravens
11 Darst DST Jets
12 Goodwin DST Giants
Brown and Jon Baldwin are two receivers to put on your radar. Brown could emerge as a go-to target for Rivers with Vincent Jackson possibly gone as a free agent, and Baldwin should start for the Chiefs. If Dwayne Bowe leaves as a free agent then Baldwin's value will rise dramatically. Mike Thomas should not be drafted in any leagues.
Round 13
Pick Owner Player
1 Goodwin Alex Smith, QB, SF
2 Darst Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, ATL
3 Melchior Joseph Addai, RB, IND
4 Brinson DST Lions
5 Lanzone David Nelson, WR, BUF
6 Aizer DST Texans
7 Madden DST Packers
8 Passonno DST Eagles
9 Tobin DST Seahawks
10 Riethmiller Matt Cassel, QB, KC
11 Richard Garrett Hartley, K, NO
12 Eisenberg Sebastian Janikowski, K, OAK
Rodgers is a sneaky pick in a PPR league because Turner could be headed for a down year, and he already is a terrible receiver. If Turner doesn't score double digits in touchdowns then he will kill owners in this format, and Rodgers could see an increase in playing time. Addai's Fantasy value is on the decline, but he is still worth drafting this late in all leagues.
Round 14
Pick Owner Player
1 Eisenberg DST Bears
2 Richard DST Patriots
3 Riethmiller Stephen Gostkowski, K, NE
4 Tobin Mason Crosby, K, GB
5 Passonno Rob Bironas, K, TEN
6 Madden Dan Bailey, K, DAL
7 Aizer Matt Bryant, K, ATL
8 Lanzone Eric Decker, WR, DEN
9 Brinson Neil Rackers, K, HOU
10 Melchior Nate Kaeding, K, SD
11 Darst Alex Henery, K, PHI
12 Goodwin Jason Hanson, K, DET
This is the round in all leagues when kickers should be drafted. Decker was taken in this round, and he is another receiver worth taking a flier on late in drafts because he should remain a starter for the Broncos. Even though he struggled to close the season and Demaryius Thomas blew up, Decker will still have his moments as a potential starter for Fantasy owners.
 
Team by Team
Adam Aizer
Rd.Pk Player
1.6 Aaron Rodgers, QB, GB
2.7 Larry Fitzgerald, WR, ARI
3.6 Jordy Nelson, WR, GB
4.7 Roy Helu, RB, WAS
5.6 C.J. Spiller, RB, BUF
6.7 Reggie Wayne, WR, IND
7.6 Brent Celek, TE, PHI
8.7 Isaac Redman, RB, PIT
9.6 Santana Moss, WR, WAS
10.7 Evan Royster, RB, WAS
11.6 Nate Burleson, WR, DET
12.7 Leonard Hankerson, WR, WAS
13.6 DST Texans
14.7 Matt Bryant, K, ATL
This team will be watching the Redskins closely with Helu, Royster, Hankerson and Moss. Running back will be a concern for this team, especially if Helu doesn't pan out, but Redman could prove to be his best selection in Round 8. If Wayne lands with a stud quarterback then this team has the best receiving corps in the league, which is nice to have in a PPR format.
Will Brinson
Rd.Pk Player
1.4 Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, JAC
2.9 Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN
3.4 Chris Johnson, RB, TEN
4.9 Steve Smith, WR, CAR
5.4 Vernon Davis, TE, SF
6.9 Ben Roethlisberger, QB, PIT
7.4 Kenny Britt, WR, TEN
8.9 Toby Gerhart, RB, MIN
9.4 Santonio Holmes, WR, NYJ
10.9 Sam Bradford, QB, STL
11.4 Nate Washington, WR, TEN
12.9 Davone Bess, WR, MIA
13.4 DST Lions
14.9 Neil Rackers, K, HOU
This owner did a nice job at running back with Jones-Drew, Johnson and the Vikings tandem. Even if Peterson is slow in his recovery he still has Gerhart as a potential flex option. Britt could be the difference maker for this team, which has stars at every position. Waiting on a quarterback paid off since he got Roethlisberger in Round 6.
J. Darin Darst
Rd.Pk Player
1.2 Ray Rice, RB, BAL
2.11 Tom Brady, QB, NE
3.2 Victor Cruz, WR, NYG
4.11 Dez Bryant, WR, DAL
5.2 Shonn Greene, RB, NYJ
6.11 Antonio Brown, WR, PIT
7.2 Fred Davis, TE, WAS
8.11 Denarius Moore, WR, OAK
9.2 Daniel Thomas, RB, MIA
10.11 Montario Hardesty, RB, CLE
11.2 Carson Palmer, QB, OAK
12.11 DST Jets
13.2 Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, ATL
14.11 Alex Henery, K, PHI
This team has some risky players with plenty of upside in Davis, Hardesty and Thomas. If any of them pan out to be stars then this owner will have a slew of options at the flex position. He also could trade Palmer if he turns out to be a No. 1 Fantasy quarterback since he won't need him with Brady as his starter.
Jamey Eisenberg
Rd.Pk Player
1.12 Andre Johnson, WR, HOU
2.1 Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE
3.12 Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, NYG
4.1 Michael Turner, RB, ATL
5.12 Beanie Wells, RB, ARI
6.1 Tony Romo, QB, DAL
7.12 Mikel Leshoure, RB, DET
8.1 Sidney Rice, WR, SEA
9.12 Lance Moore, WR, NO
10.1 Stevan Ridley, RB, NE
11.12 Jon Baldwin, WR, KC
12.1 Vincent Brown, WR, SD
13.12 Sebastian Janikowski, K, OAK
14.1 DST Bears
I wanted to see what my team would look like taking Gronkowski early in Round 2, and I'm not thrilled. My running back corps is good but not great, especially in a PPR format, and I have to hope Rice pans out as a rebound candidate. I love my reserves in Leshoure, Ridley, Baldwin and Brown because they have plenty of potential, but if they all falter my team will struggle.
Kevin Goodwin
Rd.Pk Player
1.1 Arian Foster, RB, HOU
2.12 Mike Wallace, WR, PIT
3.1 Frank Gore, RB, SF
4.12 Vincent Jackson, WR, SD
5.1 Dwayne Bowe, WR, KC
6.12 Matt Ryan, QB, ATL
7.1 Tony Gonzalez, TE, ATL
8.12 Ben Tate, RB, HOU
9.1 Brandon Pettigrew, TE, DET
10.12 Brandon Jacobs, RB, NYG
11.1 Pierre Garcon, WR, IND
12.12 DST Giants
13.1 Alex Smith, QB, SF
14.12 Jason Hanson, K, DET
This team has a great starting lineup with Ryan, Foster and Gore, Jackson and Wallace and Bowe as a flex. If Gonzalez struggles at tight end -- which could happen at this point in his career -- he also has Pettigrew as a replacement or even as a flex option. Garcon also has plenty of upside depending on where he plays, and this team should be competitive in 2012.
Jim Lanzone
Rd.Pk Player
1.5 Calvin Johnson, WR, DET
2.8 Cam Newton, QB, CAR
3.5 DeMarco Murray, RB, DAL
4.8 Antonio Gates, TE, SD
5.5 Jeremy Maclin, WR, PHI
6.8 Willis McGahee, RB, DEN
7.5 Rashard Mendenhall, RB, PIT
8.8 Michael Crabtree, WR, SF
9.5 Tim Tebow, QB, DEN
10.8 DST 49ers
11.5 Doug Baldwin, WR, SEA
12.8 David Akers, K, SF
13.5 David Nelson, WR, BUF
14.8 Eric Decker, WR, DEN
Running back is the biggest hole with Murray, McGahee and Mendenhall the only ones on the roster. And with Mendenhall's status uncertain, this owner could be forced to trade a stud like Newton, Johnson, Maclin or Gates for running back help. Maclin would make the most sense since he has Crabtree on the bench and receivers with upside in Baldwin and Decker.
Peter Madden
Rd.Pk Player
1.7 Matt Forte, RB, CHI
2.6 Darren McFadden, RB, OAK
3.7 Michael Vick, QB, PHI
4.6 Julio Jones, WR, ATL
5.7 DeSean Jackson, WR, PHI
6.6 Mario Manningham, WR, NYG
7.7 Malcom Floyd, WR, SD
8.6 Mike Tolbert, RB, SD
9.7 Mark Ingram, RB, NO
10.6 Felix Jones, RB, DAL
11.7 Jermaine Gresham, TE, CIN
12.6 Joe Flacco, QB, BAL
13.7 DST Packers
14.6 Dan Bailey, K, DAL
If Forte and McFadden return to health as expected then this running back duo will be hard to compete with, but we know McFadden has trouble staying on the field. Similarly, if Jackson plays like the stud receiver he's capable of, this receiving corps should be legit, but we have to find out where Jackson is playing. The same goes for Manningham, who is also a free agent.
Al Melchior
Rd.Pk Player
1.3 LeSean McCoy, RB, PHI
2.10 Greg Jennings, WR, GB
3.3 Matthew Stafford, QB, DET
4.10 Reggie Bush, RB, MIA
5.3 Aaron Hernandez, TE, NE
6.10 Brandon Lloyd, WR, STL
7.3 Steve Johnson, WR, BUF
8.10 Pierre Thomas, RB, NO
9.3 Anquan Boldin, WR, BAL
10.10 Andy Dalton, QB, CIN
11.3 Danny Amendola, WR, STL
12.10 DST Ravens
13.3 Joseph Addai, RB, IND
14.10 Nate Kaeding, K, SD
This team has the potential to be great depending on where Lloyd and Johnson end up as free agents, but this owner has quality reserves in Boldin and Amendola in case they falter. Bush also has to produce like he did this season, which will be tough, but it's nice to have studs like Stafford, McCoy and Hernandez to fall back on to help carry your team.
Bill Passonno
Rd.Pk Player
1.8 Roddy White, WR, ATL
2.5 Jamaal Charles, RB, KC
3.8 Brandon Marshall, WR, MIA
4.5 Marques Colston, WR, NO
5.8 Jason Witten, TE, DAL
6.5 DeAngelo Williams, RB, CAR
7.8 Jahvid Best, RB, DET
8.5 Matt Schaub, QB, HOU
9.8 Cedric Benson, RB, CIN
10.5 Greg Little, WR, CLE
11.8 Preston Parker, WR, TB
12.5 Kendall Hunter, RB, SF
13.8 DST Eagles
14.5 Rob Bironas, K, TEN
This is another squad with a tremendous receiving corps in White, Marshall, Colston and Witten, which should carry his team. If Schaub and Charles return at 100 percent and play at a high level then this could be the best team in the league. But there are plenty of question marks with Charles and Williams is more of a flex option then a starting running back. Benson could be a difference maker, but it will depend where he plays in 2012.
Dave Richard
Rd.Pk Player
1.11 Marshawn Lynch, RB, SEA
2.2 Jimmy Graham, TE, NO
3.11 Darren Sproles, RB, NO
4.2 Miles Austin, WR, DAL
5.11 Eli Manning, QB, NYG
6.2 Demaryius Thomas, WR, DEN
7.11 Laurent Robinson, WR, DAL
8.2 Jonathan Stewart, RB, CAR
9.11 Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, OAK
10.2 BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB, NE
11.11 Donald Brown, RB, IND
12.2 Ryan Williams, RB, ARI
13.11 Garrett Hartley, K, NO
14.2 DST Patriots
This is another owner who took a tight end early in Round 2, and Graham could be a better PPR option than Gronkowski if the touchdowns are similar. Lynch, Sproles and Stewart are a stellar running back trio, and Williams has a lot of upside for the Cardinals. Robinson's Fantasy value will be determined where he plays since he is a long-shot to return to the Cowboys.
Alex Riethmiller
Rd.Pk Player
1.10 Ryan Mathews, RB, SD
2.3 Wes Welker, WR, NE
3.10 Steven Jackson, RB, STL
4.3 Percy Harvin, WR, MIN
5.10 Philip Rivers, QB, SD
6.3 LeGarrette Blount, RB, TB
7.10 Dallas Clark, TE, IND
8.3 Mike Williams, WR, TB
9.10 Peyton Manning, QB, IND
10.3 James Starks, RB, GB
11.10 DST Steelers
12.3 Mike Thomas, WR, JAC
13.10 Matt Cassel, QB, KC
14.3 Stephen Gostkowski, K, NE
If Manning returns at 100 percent then this owner will be looking to make a trade, and he might need some help after looking at his reserves. Williams could prove to be a great value pick in Round 8, but after that his bench is thin. Cassel was a wasted pick after taking Rivers and Manning, but he has great starters in Mathews, Jackson, Welker and Harvin.
Jeff Tobin
Rd.Pk Player
1.9 Drew Brees, QB, NO
2.4 Hakeem Nicks, WR, NYG
3.9 A.J. Green, WR, CIN
4.4 Fred Jackson, RB, BUF
5.9 Michael Bush, RB, OAK
6.4 Jermichael Finley, TE, GB
7.9 Torrey Smith, WR, BAL
8.4 Peyton Hillis, RB, CLE
9.9 Titus Young, WR, DET
10.4 Jabar Gaffney, WR, WAS
11.9 Jay Cutler, QB, CHI
12.4 Ryan Grant, RB, GB
13.9 DST Seahawks
14.4 Mason Crosby, K, GB
Sophomore slumps would ruin this team if Green, Smith and Young all struggle, but the state of this team hinges on Bush getting a starting job, Jackson holding off Spiller and Hillis finding significant playing time. If those three things happen then this team could be a juggernaut, but we won't know for sure until the offseason is over and those questions are answered.

Stay in touch with the most passionate Fantasy staff in the business by following us via Twitter @CBSFantasyFB . You can also follow Jamey at @JameyEisenberg and on Facebook .

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Player News
David Wilson
Starting job Wilson's to lose?
David Wilson, RB, NYG
5/20/2013
News: The Giants' official team website reports the starting running back job will be won in training camp and the preseason but that David Wilson is expected to earn it. "The general feeling is the job is Wilson’s to lose," wrote website writer and veteran Giants reporter Michael Eisen. The story adds Andre Brown is "in the mix" at running back.
Analysis: The speedster has immense upside in the Giants offense even though there will be weeks where Andre Brown will have more work and certainly scores more often. But if you give Wilson about 250 total touches over the season, which is feasible, then he'll have a chance at 1,200-plus total yards with his own share of scores. We consider Wilson a No. 2 Fantasy running back with upside. He's worth drafting as early as Round 4 so long as he's "in the mix" in training camp.

LeSean McCoy
Knee flares up on LeSean
LeSean McCoy, RB, PHI
5/20/2013
News: Eagles running back LeSean McCoy was pulled from an OTA practice Monday with knee discomfort according to PhillyMag.com. He was on a sideline late in practice working on his own and getting stretched out by trainers. Per the Philadelphia Inquirer McCoy looked fine and said he "did something to his knee."
Analysis: It doesn't sound too serious. So long as McCoy is healthy and active for training camp there's nothing to be worried about. McCoy is expected to see a ton of work in the Eagles offense under new coach Chip Kelly. He has potential for a very good year, making him a Top 15 pick in all formats. Pairing him with Bryce Brown in Round 9 is a very smart idea.

Ronnie Hillman
Peyton: We're counting on Hillman
Ronnie Hillman, RB, DEN
5/20/2013
News: With Willis McGahee not in attendance and Knowshon Moreno not cleared for team drills, Ronnie Hillman and rookie Montee Ball split reps at the Broncos' OTA practice on Monday. USA Today reports Hillman had more first-team reps. Quarterback Peyton Manning has high expectations for Hillman. “Everybody in Year 2 ought to be better than they were in Year 1," Manning said. "Ronnie got great experience last year as a rookie. We’re really counting on him this year to have more of a role in the offense. ... It’s not just kind of a limited package like we did last year. We are really expecting him to make that next-level jump. It starts during these OTAs and training camp and being more of an established veteran running back. To me, after your rookie year, you are a veteran in my opinion. Second year, third year, fourth year—it doesn’t matter. A lot of the expectations out of Ronnie, and we’re counting on him to do good things for us this year.”
Analysis: You wouldn't expect a John Fox-coached team to give a rookie running back the majority of carries in a spring practice, would you? Ball is going to have to earn the primary rushing role, but it's a role he could get after the Broncos invested a second-round pick in him. Hillman has been referred to as a "change of pace" runner and he struggled last season to get first-team work (Knowshon Moreno leapfrogged him). The more work these two get now, the better they'll be in September. Ball will be found in Round 5 in drafts while Hillman is going to go later, roughly Round 10. Those estimates could change if the Broncos move on from McGahee and/or Moreno.

Rob Gronkowski
Doctors confident in Gronk
Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE
5/20/2013
News: ESPN reports that Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, who is scheduled to undergo the fourth surgery on his left forearm on Monday, should be OK. The report says doctors feel confident that the infection has been eradicated, but they won't know for sure until they take tests during the procedure and then examine those over the next week. A new plate is expected to replace the one already in his arm and he will begin a new 10-11 week recovery period.
Analysis: We're glad to hear that Gronkowski should be OK after the forearm surgery, but he still has to deal with the upcoming procedure on his back, which should take place in 3-4 weeks. The goal is get Gronkowski back on the field for training camp, but he might not be ready until just before the start of the season. If Gronkowski is 100 percent with all his ailments then he has the chance to remain the No. 1 tight end in Fantasy with a pick in Round 2. But based on his health in May, he is dropping down the rank lists to more of a Top 5 Fantasy tight end. He's still worth drafting by Round 3 or 4 in the majority of leagues, but his value has taken a hit with another forearm surgery and the potential back problem. Stay tuned, and hopefully we get more good news as the offseason moves on.

Robert Griffin III
RG3 begins throwing
Robert Griffin III, QB, WAS
5/20/2013
News: The father for Robert Griffin III told USA Today his son has been throwing a football since late April. That suggests he's ahead of schedule and could be ready to play in Week 1 against the Eagles on Sept. 9. RG3 posted on Twitter he had been doing "a couple of roll out throws," meaning he's running and throwing at the same time. "Everybody in the organization is targeting that season opener," Robert Griffin II said.
Analysis: The father added that RG3 is a little ahead of himself in his rehab compared to when he tore his right ACL in college, another good sign. Griffin tore up his knee on January 6 and the typical recovery from just an ACL procedure is nine months. His knee was damaged beyond that -- he also injured his MCL and PCL. Training camp opens on July 25, less than seven months after he got hurt. The Redskins' first game takes place September 9, eight months and three days after he got hurt. If the Redskins approach the injury with the long-term picture in mind then they might not rush him back so soon. A Fantasy gameplan: Draft Griffin with a pick in Round 7 or 8 and pair him with Carson Palmer in the final rounds. Palmer has a great early-season schedule and the Cardinals take on the Panthers in Week 5 when the Redskins are on bye. We'll keep you posted on RG3.

Mike Gillislee
Gillislee has chance to start
Mike Gillislee, RB, MIA
5/20/2013
News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that Dolphins rookie Mike Gillislee, who ran for 1,152 yards and 10 touchdowns in his senior season at Florida, will compete with Lamar Miller, a 2012 fourth-round pick, and Daniel Thomas, a 2011 second-round pick, for the starting tailback spot during training camp this summer. Gillislee was drafted in the fifth round this year.
Analysis: We'd be shocked if Gillislee was the starting running back this season, but he doesn't have to leap frog proven veterans. Miller is unproven after barely playing as a rookie, and Thomas has struggled in two years. Still, Miller is expected to start, and Gillislee has the chance to beat out Thomas for the No. 2 job. Keep an eye on what happens, and unless Gillislee somehow ascends to the top of the depth chart he is only worth drafting with a late-round flier in standard leagues. In rookie-only formats take a chance on Gillislee with a second-round pick.

Michael Vick
Vick: New offense is 'a lot easier'
Michael Vick, QB, PHI
5/20/2013
News: In an interview with 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia, Michael Vick said his critics "know nothing about football" and preferred not to address issues about his play up to this point. That's because he's excited about the future, mainly working in Chip Kelly's new up-tempo no-huddle offense. Vick's working on ball security with Kelly, just one of several areas he has to clean up in order to efficiently play, which he's excited to do. "We had a lot of deeper throws last year, which required more time," Vick said. "It's just a big difference. Not to say there was anything wrong with the West Coast system, I loved it. I spent seven years in it, and it was cool. But I think the change of pace for me at this point in my career is good and the game is a lot easier now."
Analysis: If Vick likes the new offense and thinks it's easier to run, that can only mean good things for his statistics. There's still a camp battle to be had with Nick Foles and rookie Matt Barkley but we expect Vick to get the job. How long he has it is another question since he has a propensity for getting hurt. Vick is one of the appealing No. 2 Fantasy QBs to draft with a mid-round pick this summer, particularly to pair up with a starter you end up waiting for on Draft Day.

Robert Woods
Woods impressive at OTAs
Robert Woods, WR, BUF
5/20/2013
News: The Bills official team website singled out rookie Robert Woods for his performance in practice Monday. In his first workout with the team Woods still had some timing issues with the quarterbacks but proved his route running is not amateurish. "I was really impressed with was a move that a lot of young guys make a mistake on and he didn't make it," Kevin Kolb said. "He beat the guy off the line and he continued to run his route and continued to push and was patient with it. He understood the timing of the offense and my footwork and we were able to hit a big play and keep the integrity of the pocket. That was good to see and I complemented him on it. A lot of young guys don’t do that. He’s somewhat complex in his route running ability."
Analysis: With the Bills thin on experienced receiver talent, Woods has a chance to crack the starting lineup if he can develop some serious chemistry with E.J. Manuel. Woods was a productive receiver at USC and could be fairly effective in Buffalo. For now no one should draft him in seasonal leagues but a second-round pick in rookie-only drafts and a late-round choice in dynasty/keeper leagues.

Brian Cushing
Cushing 'definitely' will be ready
Brian Cushing, LB, HOU
5/20/2013
News: Texans linebacker Brian Cushing told his team's official website he'll be ready for the start of the season. Cushing tore his left ACL last October. "My return is right around the corner, so that’s a good feeling," Cushing said on Monday. "I can definitely tell you I'll be ready for the first game of the season, and I’m pretty sure I’ll be ready for the first practice come training camp."
Analysis: Without Cushing the Texans' run defense took a step back and the defense in general yielded more points than with him. Fantasy owners also missed Cushing and his nice weekly delivery of stats. Assuming there are no setbacks owners should consider him a Top 15 Fantasy LB worth a mid-round pick.

DeVier Posey
Posey 'ahead of schedule'
DeVier Posey, WR, HOU
5/20/2013
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak said receiver DeVier Posey is "ahead of schedule" on his rehab from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in a January playoff game. Posey did not participate in OTA practices.
Analysis: Posey could still land on the PUP list for part or all of the 2013 season. With the addition of rookie DeAndre Hopkins there's no good reason to consider Posey for reliable Fantasy use at this point.

 
 
 
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