2022 NFL rookies – Syndication Server

Fantasy football: Veterans most affected by the NFL draft

Exploring how rookies may negatively impact veterans in fantasy football.

While one could stretch out the meaning of which veterans are affected by the 2022 NFL Draft in a multitude of ways, the focus here will be directly to playing time and/or utilization potential among conventional fantasy football assets.

Quarterbacks

Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers spent their No. 18 overall choice on quarterback Kenny Pickett, which effectively closes the door on any realistic shot of Trubisky starting. There’s still a chance he could begin the year as the QB1, but Pickett is the future and the most NFL-ready rookie passer of this class. Trubisky’s only fantasy utility will come in DFS action if he manages to fend off the Pitt product during the early going.

Marcus Mariota, Atlanta Falcons: Much like with Trubisky, Mariota was a former first-rounder whose career was on the skids until spending time as a backup prior to being signed for an opportunity to start in Atlanta. Unfortunately for Mariota, the NFL draft brought rookie Desmond Ridder into the fold. The Cincinnati standout is widely praised for his maturity. Ridder certainly has a chance to win the job in the summer, and if he doesn’t, Mariota’s injury history suggests the rookie’s turn may not require much of a wait. A work-in-progress receiving corps, a run-first system, durability concerns, and a promising rookie challenger destroy the fantasy appeal of Mariota, should he even secure the job.

Sam Darnold, Carolina Panthers: Darnold was far from being a trusted fantasy commodity, despite the talent around him adding a hint of promise to his otherwise lackluster outlook. Rookie newcomer Matt Corral will put up a scrappy fight in the offseason, though he is likely to open the year as a reserve. The wild card here is whether Panthers head coach Matt Rhule is truly on the hot seat this year. There’s also the injury factor as Darnold has earned a reputation for missing time. No one should be relying on Darnold as a fantasy option, outside of daily games and superflex.

“What if” scenarios

Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee Titans: Between contractual obligations and rookie third-rounder Malik Willis being a project, it likely will take an injury or massive failure on Tannehill’s behalf in order to see Willis play crucial snaps. However, if the former Miami Dolphin is to miss significant time, there may be no reason to get away from Willis. Tennessee can bail on Tannehill’s contract in 2023 for as little as $9.6 million in dead money.

Running backs

Michael Carter Jr., New York Jets: A 2021 fourth-round selection, Carter was one of the few bright spots of this offense last year. He showed versatility and manged to finish as RB28 in PPR over just 14 appearances. The Jets stole the draft’s opening round and then traded up to nab Breece Hall in the early second, adding the nation’s best back to the mix. Hall does everything well and could be a true three-down back, but it’s unlikely he’ll be thrust into such a role right away, if at all. Carter’s fantasy value takes a Mike Tyson punch to the gut. For now, he’s merely a handcuff to the Iowa State star.

Chris Carson, Seattle Seahawks: Carson (neck) is attempting to return from a spinal fusion surgery that doesn’t seem to have a clear prognosis. The veteran saw Rashaad Penny steal the show down the stretch in 2021, and Seattle opted to re-sign the oft-injured, 2018 first-rounder. Penny is likely to be given the bulk of the touches if both veterans are on the field, but the selection of Michigan State’s Kenneth Walker III in Round 2 really works against Carson. There is no reason to hurry him back, and it’s not like Carson was a stranger to injury before the surgery. With the durability concerns for both primary backs, Walker really could emerge as the starter in short order. Carson becomes little better than a late-round gamble after tossing in the uncertainty at quarterback.

[lawrence-related id=465523]

Cordarrelle Patterson, Atlanta Falcons: While running back Mike Davis was the first casualty connected to rookie Tyler Allgeier, Patterson could be significantly impacted, but in a much different way. Davis was flat-out cut shortly after the draft, whereas Patterson’s role could be restricted to seeing mostly third-down work. He is more valuable to the team catching passes out of the backfield than being primarily utilized on early downs, which is a role ideally suited for Allgeier’s skill set. Patterson will remain relevant in PPR, but he’s not going to live up to last year’s RB10 finish. No chance. The selection of Allgeier, in addition to having a pair of running quarterbacks contending to be center, CP is barely a low-end No. 2.

“What if” scenarios

Josh Jacobs, Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders declined Jacobs’ fifth-year option, effectively meaning this is his last year with the team. Now, that’s not to say he couldn’t be re-signed or franchise tagged with a true breakout year, but the selection of running back Zamir White could make it a moot point if the rookie is indeed the hand-picked replacement. They have similar enough styles where the overall offensive design will treat them interchangeably. Jacobs, in worst-case scenario, could lose his job to injury. He’s a low-tier RB2 but will be riskier than at any point in his NFL career.

Darrell Henderson Jr., Los Angeles Rams: Henderson also has proven to be no stranger to injuries, and the Rams drafted Kyren Williams as the presumed third back entering summer practices. The primary work belongs to Cam Akers, and the top backup job will remain in Henderson’s grasp so long as he’s not on the shelf. Should he suffer an injury of any moderate or worse seriousness, the 2023 unrestricted free agent could find himself without a role.

Wide receivers

Mecole Hardman, Kansas City Chiefs: Few receivers will have their opportunity threatened more than Hardman. KC traded away Tyreek Hill and chose Skyy Moore in Round 2 with clear intentions of him being the Cheetah’s direct replacement. The immediate question is whether Hardman will be presented an earnest chance play Hill’s role as Moore is brought along. Hardman’s career thus far has been inconsistent and underwhelming. In his defense, playing behind target hogs like Hill and Travis Kelce leaves only so many opportunities. He looked every bit the part of Hill’s long-term heir in Hardman’s 2019 rookie season, scoring six times on only 26 grabs and averaging a whopping 20.7 yards per catch. Each of the last two years, his volume increased but Hardman’s average went down and scoring frequency decreased. From a fantasy perspective, though, in PPR, Hardman has actually improved on a per-game rate each year. We’ll monitor this one with an extra watchful eye until its resolution.

Sammy Watkins, Green Bay Packers: Will Watkins even make the final roster? It certainly was up for debate prior to the selection of Christian Watson, and the Packers also spent a Round 4 pick on Romeo Doubs, another talented vertical weapon. Watkins could be cut if he doesn’t outplay the rooks during the summer, and we’re not talking about the model of health here, anyway. Early-summer drafters should shy away from Watkins as anything but a flier.

Curtis Samuel, Washington Commanders: Last year’s season was a total waste thanks to injuries, but the Washington receivers room grew with the first-round choice of Jahan Dotson. He and Samuel aren’t too similar in terms of their utilization, but the Penn State rookie will be granted every chance in the world to assert himself opposite Terry McLaurin. If nothing else, Samuel has been put on notice. His contract means he won’t be released until 2023, although his target share could be diminished into obscurity.

Kadarius Toney, New York Giants: Toney was on a short leash prior to the draft, even being shopped, according to some reports. Despite commentary to the contrary, there’s no question the Round 2 selection of Wan’Dale Robinson — earlier than expected, mind you — puts Toney on notice. This one still could play out with Toney remaining on New York’s roster, yet it’s tough to conceive any scenario in which Robinson’s addition is a positive for Toney’s 2022 fantasy worth.

[lawrence-related id=465509]

Nelson Agholor, New England Patriots: New England grabbed Baylor receiver Tyquan Thornton in Round 2, and the former track star is more than just a fast dude playing receiver. He’s poised to cost Agholor his job, and probably roster spot, with little more required than being competent this summer. Agholor’s fantasy offerings have been a roller coaster over the last few years, so luckily this one doesn’t have a much impact.

“What if” scenarios

Diontae Johnson, Pittsburgh Steelers: Johnson enters the final year of his contract and will command elite money for the position’s standards. He’s looking at something in the neighborhood of $25 million per season in an extension. Sure, he could get a franchise tagging to kick the can down the road, or the Steelers may opt to let him walk into free agency in a bid to save money with rookie Calvin Austin III as the replacement. It won’t necessarily impact Johnson’s 2022 role or fantasy utility, but it’s something to keep an eye on for dynasty purposes.

Tight ends

Logan Thomas, Washington Commanders: Returning from a December knee reconstruction, the nearly 31-year-old Thomas has one productive season to his name. The Commanders selected the future in Cole Turner, but the 6-foot-6 1/2, 249-pounder could find himself in the starting lineup as soon as Week 1. He should be granted the opportunity to share first-team reps with world-beater John Bates in Thomas’ absence this summer. Thomas could cede way before he even gets a true chance for an on-field fight over his starting gig. He’s a TE2, at best, fantasy draft season.

“What if” scenarios

Ricky Seals-Jones, New York Giants: San Diego State tight end Daniel Bellinger has all of the traits needed to develop into a quality fantasy option. That said, rookie tight ends typically don’t offer much of anything for fake football action. Seals-Jones will get the first crack at starting, but he’s fragile. Backup Jordan Akins came over in the offseason from Houston and should be the primary backup. With those points established, Akins is 30 years old with a flimsy resume, and RSJ is a career journeyman. Bellinger’s upside is real, but the road to travel is a long one with plenty of twists and turns ahead. Seals-Jones is not worthy of a selection in conventional formats, despite this favorable system for positional success.

2022 Top 12 fantasy football rookies

Which rookies are the top fantasy picks after the NFL draft?

The draft is over, and the dust has settled. This was an interesting draft in that there were no first-round running backs and only three were taken by the late third round. The devaluing of the position continues and while rookie running backs will over drafted in fantasy leagues, there’s no clear cut “Najee Harris” in this draft.

Rookie quarterbacks rarely matter in fantasy football. Kenny Pickett landed in Pittsburgh, but no others went before the third round. This was not a strong class for the position.

Wide receivers? That’s where it all happened. Selecting 13 in the first two rounds tied a record. Seventeen were taken in the first two days. Unfortunately, the worst passing teams grabbed the best wideouts. Here are the top-drafted receivers from the first two rounds and how their new team ranked in passing fantasy points in 2021.

Only Christian Watson and Skyy Moore went to teams that had above average passing stats last year. And Moore was the No. 13 taken. Watson is interesting if only because he has Aaron Rodgers passing to him.

Let’s take a first swipe at the top fantasy rookies for this year. Much will likely change by Week 1 of the season, but these are the players that should be closely tracked in training camp and preseason games.

1.) RB Breece Hall – Iowa State (NYJ 2.04) 5-11, 220, 4.39The first running back drafted is always the first rookie taken in a fantasy draft. And in this case, Hall didn’t show up until Day 2. He has workhorse ability and offers both rushing and receiving skills to the Jets who were relentless in trying to upgrade their offense.

Michael Carter was an under-sized addition last year and played well enough, but Hall brings the complete package to an offense that should be markedly better. Hall has the inside track to being the top rookie rusher and the easiest path to a higher volume of touches. He gained over 1,700 total yards the last two seasons for the Cyclones. A decade ago, he’d have been a Top-10 pick but the NFL has changed to more passing and committee backfields.

2.) RB James Cook – Georgia (BUF 3.31) 5-11, 199, 4.42Cook wasn’t drafted until the end of the second round, but he offers as much promise as any rookie back given his skill set and joining the powerful Buffalo offense. The ex-Bulldog comes off a National Championship, and he has plenty of tread on his tires with only 230 rushes over four seasons. Cook can play as a third-down role or mix in as a rusher. He’s fast and elusive, with a 6.5-yard rushing average playing in the SEC.

The Bills gave up on Zach Moss, and fourth-year back Devin Singletary is still searching for a 1,000-yard season. He played better down the stretch last year but only against a weak spot in the schedule. Singletary will likely remain the primary back to start the year, but Cook will get playing time in a third-down capacity and easily end up with the larger chunk of work during the season and beyond. This is a great offense and Cook can find a fit for himself.

3.) WR Chris Olave – Ohio State (NO – 1.11) 6-0, 187, 4.39Any rookie wideout is a fantasy risk, and Ja’Marr Chase was an extreme outlier last year. Olave was a touchdown machine for the Buckeyes and set the school career record with 35 scores. The four-year player is complete and NFL-ready. He’s smart, scary-fast, and runs precise routes. Olave is expected to become a No. 1 wideout in the NFL and shouldn’t need much time to acclimate to playing in the pros.

He’ll be behind Michael Thomas (health willing), but that should help him see lesser coverage. More importantly, Jameis Winston will continue the pass-happy ways of the Saints. Olave should become the No. 2 wideout as early as Week 1. He’s not likely to produce a high volume of catches with Thomas there, but should be a weekly contributor that knows how to find the end zone.

4.) WR Drake London – USC (ATL 1.08) 6-4, 219, 4.5 (est.)London was the first wideout selected and had a monster junior season in 2021 before fracturing his ankle after eight games. He was averaging over 11 catches per game and the 6-4, 219-pounder towers over smaller defenders while having the speed to outrace them. He played basketball as well and should become a magnet over the middle with a catch radius that welcomes 50-50 balls. London is the prototypical possession receiver with the jets to take it home on any play.

He’ll be catching passes from either Marcus Mariota or Desmond Ridder, which isn’t ideal for a rookie, but he’s joined a wideout crew that has only Olamide Zaccheaus as a player of any note. London will step into a primary role as a rookie and the Falcons will need to rely on him. He’ll likely improve as the season progresses and could lead all rookie receivers in pass targets. Kyle Pitts will continue to factor in heavily as well, but the Falcons now have two giant receivers that can succeed all over the field.

5.) WR Garrett Wilson – Ohio State (NYJ 1.10) 6-0, 183, 4.38The Jets landed this ex-Buckeye as the second wideout taken, but he was at the top of many draft boards. The teammate of Chris Olave was another speedster with a dangerous second gear and tremendous hands. He’s a great deep threat and also can return kicks. Wilson is a playmaker that adds a dangerous piece to the improving Jets offense.

Zach Wilson’s rookie season was hampered by a lack of quality targets other than second-round rookie Elijah Moore. Wilson joins Moore and Corey Davis but should become no worse than the No. 3 wideout to start the year and very likely the No. 1 receiver by next year at the latest. Much depends on the continued development of Zach Wilson as a passer, but the pieces are in place for a leap in production this year, and Garrett Wilson can be a big part of that even as a rookie.

6.) RB Kenny Walker III – Mich. State (SEA 2.09) 5-9, 211, 4.38

Walker was another player that played two marginal seasons at one school (Wake Forest) and then transferred to another program (Michigan State). And he blew up. Walker punished opponents with 263 carries for 1,636 yards and 18 touchdowns. He not only is built to pound the ball, but he also sports a 4.38 speed that can take it to the house. Walker only caught 19 passes in college, but his role as a rusher is a throwback to workhorse backs.

Chris Carson’s neck injury is still a concern and this draft pick proves it. Rashaad Penny finally made good on his first-round pick in 2018 and re-signed for one year. But his path to start needs to be earned all over again, particularly for first and second downs. The Seahawks don’t throw to backs much anyway, so Walker can make immediate inroads to playing time. Considering the lengthy injury history of Penny and the potential absence of Carson, Walker could end up as a surprise.

7.) WR Christian Watson – N. Dakota St. (GB 2.02) 6-4, 208, 4.36Watson may end up higher than this by fantasy drafts in August. He was the seventh wideout drafted and the third pick of the Packers, but he’s the only rookie wideout in the first dozen that pairs with an elite quarterback. Watson never caught more than 43 passes in his four seasons with the Bisons but offers that rare combination of height (6-4) and speed (4.36). He was effective against a lesser level of competition and gets a chance to show he continues to show elite traits.

He can slip into the “Marquez Valdes-Scantling” role as a field stretcher and tall target since they share the same measurables. The Packers depth chart is primed for players to earn more playing time given that Allen Lazard and Randall Cobb are the current penciled-in starters. Watson has to learn the NFL after his success at North Dakota State, but he likely couldn’t have found a more advantageous place to land. Davante Adams left 169 passing targets behind that need to find new homes.

8.) WR Jameson Williams – Alabama (DET 1.12) 6-1, 179, 4.4 (est.)Williams was the fourth wideout drafted and had he not blown an ACL in the National Championship game last January, he’d may have been the first. Williams transferred to Alabama as a junior and was unstoppable. He caught 79 passes for 1,572 yards and 15 touchdowns. He was a blur in the open field and an elite receiver in every measure. And then he blew out his knee.

His dynasty stock is higher, but he is tentatively expected to be ready for training camp. He joins a Lion’s franchise that already has Amon-Ra St. Brown and DJ Chark, so there’s no need to rush him if he’s better served with a lesser role as he returns from injury. But at some point, and it could be this season, Williams is expected to become the primary weapon in the passing game.

9.) WR Treylon Burks – Arkansas (TEN 1.18) 6-2, 225, 4.55The Titans moved A.J. Brown when they didn’t want to deal with his salary demands that became a $100 million extension with the Eagles. They got the No. 18 pick in the trade and turned it into Brown’s replacement. The Titans had little more than the recovering Robert Woods after Brown and Julio Jones were off the roster, so adding his clone will help the offense.

Burks led the Razorbacks in receiving for all three years and he’s another big-framed, sticky-handed receiver with a big catch radius. He’ll be a nice fit for the ball control, run-first style of offense in Tennessee. He also is a solid blocker that can stay on the field for all plays. Brown enjoyed a very promising rookie year (52-1051-8), and Burks looks to replicate that level of play.

10.) WR Skyy Moore – Western Mich. (KC 2.22) 5-10, 195, 4.41

He may have been the No. 13 wideout drafted this year, but Moore will generate plenty of fantasy interest if only because he lands with the high-octane Chiefs offense that no longer relies on Tyreek Hill – the same size and only a bit faster. But Moore does possess elite burst and great hands. He comes off a junior season at Western Michigan that saw him catch 95 passes for 1,292 yards and ten touchdowns.

There’s a lot to like about the speedy receiver that plays bigger than his size. Moore’s no 1:1 comparison to Hill who had a rookie stat line of just 61-593-6. The Chiefs have added JuJu Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling, so Moore is not stepping into a starting role. But playing with Patrick Mahomes is always a reason to track players and Moore has a chance to earn more playing time if he can show up earlier in the season.

11.) WR Alec Pierce – Cincinnati (IND 2.21) 6-3, 211, 4.41

Pierce was the twelfth wideout drafted, and while he’s unlikely to become an elite NFL wideout, he projects as a solid No. 2 receiver that can make possession catches with the occasional deep strike. All three seasons that he played ended with over 17-yards per catch. He’s tall enough for work over the middle and in the end zone, and yet fast enough to stretch the defense. Pierce is still a bit raw and needs further development, but he owns the physical traits of an NFL starter.

The Colts brought in Matt Ryan this year in their annual attempt to catch quarterbacks on their downside. Michael Pittman had a breakout in 2021 with 1,082 yards, while Parris Campbell turned in his third disappointing effort. Pierce should compete immediately for the outside across from Pittman and that will give Ryan plenty of tall targets between Pittman (6-4), Pierce (6-3), Mo-Alie Cox (6-5) and new rookie tight end Jelani Woods (6-7).

12.) Three-way tie
RB Brian Robinson Jr. – Alabama (WAS 3.34) 6-2, 225, 4.53
RB Zamir White – Georgia (LV 4.17) 6-0, 215, 4.47
RB Isaiah Spiller – Texas A&M (LAC 4.18) 6-0, 217, 4.63

Maybe a cop out to name three players, but the reality is that this was a weak running back class and it showed when college all-stars were still there in the fourth round. Each of these backs is an accomplished runner and could see action. But they were all drafted into committee situations that would take time to develop barring an injury (or two) granting sudden opportunity. These are three running backs to track this summer in case anything develops.

Robinson lands in Washington, where Antonio Gibson and J.D. McKissic already share the backfield. He’ll see some use as a running back but anything he does would be at the expense of Gibson.

White joins the Raiders, where Josh Jacobs enters his final contract year since they declined exercising his fifth-year option. Kenyan Drake returns from his ankle injury but his role is less clear now. White is a rusher with minimal work as a receiver. The situation bears tracking and White should see at least carries which would be taken from Jacobs. There’s a chance that Jacobs and Drake just reprise their roles from last year and White remains on the bench. One injury and White almost certainly becomes a factor.

Spiller fell in the draft but he lands with the Chargers. He could beat out Larry Rountree and Joshua Kelley and there were 140 carries left over after Austin Ekeler last year. Spiller could become the 1B there and Ekeler has a history of getting dinged up.

Just because the running backs were devalued in this draft, doesn’t mean that they won’t provide fantasy value. It just may be later in the year and the product of injuries or team dynamics.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Calvin Austin III, Memphis

Big things sometimes do come in small packages, and Austin is living proof.

Wide receiver Calvin Austin III is among the most exciting players entering the NFL via the upcoming draft. The Memphis, Tenn., native chose to stay home to play for the Tigers and also starred as a decorated track sprinter.

Austin redshirted in 2018 for Memphis but still appeared in 11 contests. In 2020, he erupted and was named to the All-AAC first-team offense, scoring 11 times through the air in as many games.

Height: 5-foot-7 3/4
Weight: 170 pounds
40 time: 4.32 seconds

Austin saved his best performance for 2021, logging 1,149 yards and eight aerial scores on 74 grabs, adding a 69-yard rushing touchdown on his way to another first-team all-conference selection.

His projected draft placement varies quite a bit, typically ranging from the third to the fifth round. It will be rather surprising if Austin falls into the fifth as at least one team figures to fall in love with his speed and big-play nature in this pass-happy league much earlier.

Table: Calvin Austin III NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year	School	Class	Gm	Receiving				Rushing
Year	School	Class	Gm	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD	Att	Yds	Avg	TD
*2018	Memphis	FR	4	2	24	12.0	0	1	83	83.0	1
*2019	Memphis	rSO	9	17	315	18.5	3	4	3	0.8	1
*2020	Memphis	rJR	11	63	1,053	16.7	11	2	14	7.0	0
2021	Memphis	rSR	12	74	1,149	15.5	8	1	69	69	1

*includes postseason/bowl games

Pros

Explosive athlete with elite speed who can house it from anywhere on the field
Skill set begs coaches to manufacture plays to get him in space — dangerous from all three levels of the passing tree
Improved technical nuances as a route runner in 2021
Quality hands, especially tracking down the field
Can play from inside and the slot without skipping a beat — actually played more than 90 percent of his snaps on the outside last year and shouldn’t be pegged as “just a slot receiver” because of his size
Plays bigger than his physical stature — comes with a degree of moxie that cannot be taught
Hard to jam at the line due to quick footwork and multiple releases
Elusive in the open field — exceptional agility, low center of gravity, and top-shelf body control make for a tough target to tackle
Ran an absurd 1.44-second 10-yard split in the 40, which ranks in the 99.8th percentile all time among combine WRs — instant gas pedal response and first-rate start-stop ability
Menacing special teams returner — a pair of touchdowns on 25 punt returns in the last two seasons
Understands how to work back to bail out a scrambling quarterback — shows a feel for exploiting soft spots in coverage

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Cons

Obvious size concerns will immediately create detractors
Isn’t a factor in closely contested situations — too frequently loses 50/50 jump-ball scenarios
Doesn’t shed many tackles once the defender gets a hand on him
Unlikely to develop into a true WR1 in the pros
Borderline useless as a blocker

Fantasy football outlook

A comparison often thrown around is Tyreek Hill, and that’s just not fair. Hill is much more powerfully built with a thicker frame and better functional strength. A more apt comp is Marquise Brown. Both are lightning in a bottle but don’t profile as a No. 1 and aren’t terribly hard to game plan against at the next level.

We’ll give a detailed outlook on Austin’s fantasy worth once the diminuative receiver finds an NFL home. He should become a weekly lineup consideration in short order, although Austin’s style of play is inherently inconsistent for fake football deployment. Expect a lot of all-or-nothing outputs, regardless of where he winds up.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: RB Tyler Badie, Missouri

Tyler Badie projects as a third-down back, but can he be more?

Tyler Badie is a four-year running back for the Tigers that became a difference-maker when he finally was made the primary rusher as a senior. He spent his first three seasons as a complement to Larry Rountree and was an SEC All-Freshman Team selection. When he took over in 2021, he ran for 1,604 yards and 14 touchdowns and upped his role as a receiver with 54 receptions. He set the new Missouri single-season record in rushing yards despite playing behind a below-average offensive line.

He was a highly effective rusher with a 6.0-yard average and was First Team All-SEC last year. He ranked third in the FBS in rushing yardage in his only starting season as one of the best running backs in college football. He was also the SEC Scholar Athlete of the year in 2021. Last year, he turned in five games with over 200 rushing yards playing in the SEC.

Height: 5-8
Weight: 197 pounds
40 time: 4.42 seconds

Badie’s size already has him categorized as a third-down back, and history witnessed plenty of highly productive yet smaller backs fail to replicate their college success going against defenses full of ex-college all-stars. But the NFL continues to evolve the role of backfields, and Badie will find a team that can use his talents.

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Table: Tyler Badie NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year	School	Games	Runs	Yards	Avg.	TD	Catch	Yards	TD
2018	Missouri	12	89	437	4.9	2	12	130	0
2019	Missouri	12	108	457	4.2	3	32	356	5
2020	Missouri	10	48	242	5.0	4	28	333	2
2021	Missouri	12	268	1604	6.0	14	54	330	4

Pros

Good open-field burst
Shifty runner
Quick feet with lateral moves
Outstanding route runner
Natural receiver that can do more than dump-off catches
Compact and runs hard with low center of gravity
Patient waiting for holes to develop
Good balance on sharp cuts
Only lost two fumbles in four years

Cons

Size an issue on short-yardage and inside runs
Could struggle on picking up blitz
Smaller catch radius needs accurate passes
Already pegged as a third-down complementary back

Fantasy outlook

The expectation is that Badie will be drafted on Day 2 and would become an early target for Round 4 if he fell that far. His only knock is his size – only 5-8 and 197 pounds usually gets pushed around as a runner in the NFL though that’s almost the same size as Michael Carter. He will be taken as a third-down back but he’ll have his chance to assert his role as a runner as a rookie. Most third-down types have only moderate rookie seasons as they learn the nuances of catching the ball and blocking in the NFL.

He’s a definite add to a fantasy dynasty team since he’ll develop for the first year or two before reaching whatever his optimal production will be. His fantasy stock as a rookie lies almost entirely on which team selects him and the opportunity that they will afford him in his first season.

Badie is worth a deeper pick in a fantasy draft regardless of where he lands. He has the tools to find success in the NFL, the only question being if he can continue to make a difference as a rusher. Offering a third-down role will keep him in the game plan and rack up reception points. It will also keep him in line for more work if he proves himself or if the team’s primary back is injured.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: RB D’Vonte Price, FIU

Price’s size-speed combination will offer serious TD potential in time.

D’Vonte Price is a physical specimen of a man, and he knows how to deliver a punishing blow to would-be tacklers. That said, the Florida International running back doesn’t do too much else exceptionally well with his touches. He’s a big body with impressive top-end speed for his size, yet the resume isn’t going to “wow” too many folks.

A three-star recruit from Punta Gorda, Florida, Price opted for FIU after receiving offers from South Florida and Kentucky. His true freshman season was exactly one for the record books, but the end of his stay at the university resulted in consecutive Conference USA honorable mentions.

Height: 6-foot-1 3/8
Weight: 210 pounds
40 time: 4.38 seconds

Price led FIU in rushing yards in 2021, a “super senior” season after the 2020 pandemic extension gave him another year of eligibility. He publicly discussed his struggle about deciding to return to school, ultimately choosing to take advantage of the extra year. If nothing else, it probably didn’t hurt him in the end, but he’s still likely a fifth-round pick or worse, unless a team’s brass is enamored with the size-speed combo for its specific situation.

Table: D’Vonte Price NCAA stats (2017-21)

Year	School	Class	Gm	Rushing				Receiving
Year	School	Class	Gm	Att	Yds	Avg	TD	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD
*2017	Florida International	FR	7	15	131	8.7	0	5	45	9.0	0
*2018	Florida International	SO	13	90	560	6.2	5	15	116	7.7	0
*2019	Florida International	JR	12	50	249	5.0	0	10	49	4.9	0
2020	Florida International	SR	5	85	581	6.8	4	5	14	2.8	1
2021	Florida International	rSR	9	129	682	5.3	6	10	83	8.3	0

*includes postseason/bowl games

Pros

Pretty good vision for the timely cut-back
Tough runner who keeps his legs moving and fights for added yardage after contact
Functionally sound blocking skills and effort
Can break big plays with adequate blocking in front of him
Considerable size and enough speed to plow through people and keep going to the house from anywhere on the field — more of a galloping runner but is hard to catch from behind
Could be a reliable returner on kickoffs but will need more experience
Plenty of tread left on the tires

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Cons

Runs far too upright at times, costing extra yardage and opening him up to injury — he can’t change his height, but more emphasis on consistently lowering his pads needs to be seen
Isn’t particularly effective at creating yardage on his own
Limited experience catching passes out of the backfield
Build-up speed without quick access to a second gear — timed remarkably well at the combine but effectively doesn’t play as fast as a result of turbocharger lag
Doesn’t profile as more than a change-of-pace backup or special teams returner
Ball security could be an issue after four fumbles on only 414 offensive touches
Lacks lower-body flexibility and can get tight in the hips when trying to make multiple evasive maneuvers in a row

Fantasy football outlook

It will require the right system and personnel situation to put Price in an immediate situation to contribute. His game reminds of Cordarrelle Patterson, minus the proven receiving chops. That’s not to say Price doesn’t have such a dual-threat role in him. In some ways, this is a discount version of Darren McFadden.

Price is worth keeping an eye on and should have more value as a deep-bench stash in dynasty formats than a single-year selection. We’ll provide a more thorough prognostication during the upcoming NFL draft once he finds a home.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Alec Pierce, Cincinnati

Alec Pierce looks to provide a speedy, possession role in the NFL.

Alec Pierce turned in his best season when he led the Cincinnati Bearcats with 52 receptions for 884 yards and eight scores in 2021, all coming from fellow draft-hopeful quarterback Desmond Ridder. Pierce’s resume may seem a bit lighter on production, but he played special teams as a freshman and missed games in 2020 with a knee injury during an already-shortened season due to COVID.

Pierce was a mismatch as a deep threat during Cincinnati’s fine 2021 season that ended in the Peach Bowl with a three-point loss to Georgia. He averaged over 17 yards in the three seasons that he played wideout on a team that didn’t throw much.

Height: 6-3
Weight: 211 pounds
40 time: 4.41 seconds

The physical receiver should have no problems landing on an NFL team as an aggressive big-body receiver that can play outside on either side. His performance at the NFL Combine boosted his stock further with a 4.41 40-time and a 40.5″ vertical jump.

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Table: Alec Pierce NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year	School	Games	Catch	Yards	Avg.	TD
2018	Cincinnati	4	0	0	0	0
2019	Cincinnati	12	37	652	17.6	2
2020	Cincinnati	6	17	315	18.5	3
2021	Cincinnati	14	52	884	17.0	8

Pros

Big frame with solid speed
Excellent at high-point catches over shorter defenders
Adept at finding holes in zone coverage
Tough enough to control the middle of the field
Speed adapts well to vertical routes
Will win 50/50 passes
Highly competitive
Sharp route runner
Solid blocker with size to help running game
Playmaker that delivers chunk plays

Cons

Lacks elite burst
Precise route running but lacks fluidity
Yards after catch could improve
Ran limited route tree in college
Will need to learn to defeat NFL jams at the line

Fantasy outlook

Pierce is a big receiver with better-than-average speed, which the NFL always likes. He’s a lock to play the outside and is likely to be a possession receiver than a deep threat. He’s been likened to Jordy Nelson by many scouts and he is roughly the same size and a tad bit faster.

The expectation is that he’ll need to continue his development in the NFL to become a complete receiver. He has the potential to turn into a No. 1 wideout and leading receiver for a team. He has good hands and knows how to get open and come down with the ball. But that will depend on where he lands and the opportunity he’ll get there. Pierce should be a Day 2 pick, and he’s another player that will send teams scrambling to trade up if he falls to the third.

His size and catch radius make him an attractive option in the end zone. He’s been a deep threat in college. Pierce just needs to prove himself in the NFL as an offensive weapon that can be relied on at all three levels of the defense. His best fantasy outcome is to land on an NFL team that has an elite quarterback and win the starting split end or flanker role. He has the potential to develop into a solid fantasy contributor if he translates into a possession receiver.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: TE Jalen Wydermyer, Texas A&M

Wydermyer comes with vertical skills but ample question marks.

Tight end Jalen Wydermyer was a prep standout in the Houston area and chose Texas A&M after a number of schools recruited him.

As a true freshman, he posted six scores on 32 grabs and averaged 14 yards per catch, helping Wydermyer earn a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team. In 2020, his reception and yardage totals increased with two fewer games played, which was enough for a spot on the conference second-team squad.

Height: 6-foot-3 7/8
Weight: 255 pounds
40 time: 5.03 seconds (pro day)

Despite suffering a serious finger injury that required surgery in the offseason, Wydermyer posted a respectable line as a junior that once again put him on the SEC second-team roster and also made him a finalist for the nation’s top tight end award yet again. Even with the success, it may be a challenge for the former Aggie to get drafted earlier than the fifth round.

Table: Jalen Wydermyer NCAA stats (2019-21)

Year	School	Class	Gm	Receiving				Rushing
Year	School	Class	Gm	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD	Att	Yds	Avg	TD
*2019	Texas A&M	FR	12	32	447	14.0	6	—	—	—	—
*2020	Texas A&M	SO	10	46	506	11.0	6	—	—	—	—
2021	Texas A&M	JR	12	40	515	12.9	4	—	—	—	—

*includes postseason/bowl games

Pros

Quality ball skills and above-average tracking ability down the seam
Excellent going for a contested catch, usually winning with timing and large, strong hands
Adept at sticking a foot and making a clean break to get vertical
Flexible with good body lean and overall control for his size
Unfazed going into heavy traffic over the middle of the field
Tenacious after the reception and is difficult bring down in the open field
A fair amount of route experience from moving all over the field — lined up in the slot, at wide receiver, in the backfield, and as a traditional Y tight end
Offers upside for on-field growth in several areas and can fit into multiple offensive systems

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Cons

Plays faster than his 5.03-second 40 time at his pro day, which is slower than a 336-pound Jason Peters ran in 2004. Even if that is the slowest Wydermyer could have possibly run, his best speed likely isn’t much better than 4.8
Was not asked to block a bunch but also wasn’t very good at it, despite having a favorable build. There’s room for growth, so consider it a borderline weakness over the long term
Consistently productive each season but was a little too erratic from week to week
Reported concerns about his maturity

Fantasy football outlook

System fit will be key for unlocking his maximized potential. Wydermyer will be at his best as a “move tight end” in a creative design, ideally a West Coast offense. Think of how the Indianapolis Colts utilize (or at least attempt to) Mo Alie-Cox … put him in spacetto create mismatches.

While Wydermyer also could be useful in an offense similar to Sean McVay’s, it’s unlikely he will develop into a weekly plug-n-play starter for fantasy owners. Look for a more specific update during the draft once he finds a home in the NFL.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: RB Tyler Allgeier, BYU

How does this TD machine translate to the NFL?

After transitioning from linebacker to running back, BYU’s Tyler Allgeier took the FBS Independent Schools by storm with 36 rushing scores over the past two seasons. He averaged more than 6.4 yards per attempt over the last two years, toting the ball 426 times.

His 1,601 rushing yards in 2021 ranked fourth in FBS action, and the California native’s 23 rushing touchdowns tied for the lead. No Cougars running back in school history carried the ball more than his 276 attempts last year, yet he still has limited mileage on the odometer.

Height: 5-foot-10 3/4
Weight: 224 pounds
40 time: 4.6 seconds

This classic north-south runner was granted redshirt status in 2018 but also received another year of eligibility due to the pandemic. Even though Allgeier was in the program four years, he still technically left school as a sophomore.

Table: Tyler Allgeier NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year	School	Class	Gm	Rushing				Receiving
Year	School	Class	Gm	Att	Yds	Avg	TD	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD
*2018	Brigham Young	FR	4	9	49	5.4	0	1	-3	-3.0	0
*2019	Brigham Young	rFR	11	17	119	7.00	0	3	67	22.3	1
*2020	Brigham Young	rSO	11	150	1,130	7.5	13	14	174	12.4	0
*2021	Brigham Young	rSO	13	276	1,601	5.8	23	28	199	7.1	0

*includes postseason/bowl games

Pros

Lived in the end zone — presents a dangerous weapon in the red zone and should have steady role in this area of the field
Muscular, compact build to withstand the rigors of playing running back in the pros
Above-average vision behind the line and typically makes the correct read when multiple choices are available to him
Good contact balance to power through flimsy tackle attempts
Ideally suited for a zone-blocking scheme — doesn’t waste too many steps after making his read
Fluid enough to string together a series of moves to evade defenders
Still learning the position and has room for growth
Experience at linebacker, running back and on special teams

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Cons

Serious ball security issues need to be addressed in the NFL after six fumbles over 498 offensive touches, including four on 299 handles in 2021
Lacks breakaway speed — most of his big runs at BYU came with massive holes and several steps on the closest tackler
Limited system fits and profiles as a two-down back
Not a natural catcher of the ball — competently reels in dump-offs but has little experience with complex routes or making tough, contested grabs
While he has been durable to date, the bruising style could shorten his career

Fantasy football outlook

Allgeier figures to be an early Day 3 selection in the upcoming draft. He’s a perfect fit for teams utilizing zone-blocking but also could find some success in RPO-heavy, spread designs.

He’s likely to be forced into a committee with a role on early downs, regardless of how the coaching staff prefers to divvy up touches. There aren’t too many workhorses left in today’s pro game anyway, mitigating this element as a true drawback.

Some longevity concerns exist for those in dynasty formats, but even six or seven productive years will justify the necessary investment.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Wan’Dale Robinson, Kentucky

Wan’Dale Robinson enters NFL draft after tearing up SEC secondaries last year.

Wan’Dale Robinson won the Kentucky Mr. Football as a high school senior in 2018 and he was an elite athlete that played quarterback, receiver, running back, safety, linebacker, punt returner and kick returner. He initially committed to Kentucky but then switched to Nebraska.

Robinson entered his college career as a hybrid player that was primarily a running back. His usage was more evenly split as a sophomore when he totaled 97 touches. Robinson wanted to be a wideout, so he entered the transfer portal for 2021 and committed back to Kentucky where he played for one season as a dominating receiving. He ended with 104 catches that included eight games with at least eight receptions while playing in the SEC.

Height: 5-8
Weight: 178 pounds
40 time: 4.44 seconds

One of his knocks will be that his college measurements were given as 5-11 in height and 185 pounds. At the NFL Combine, he became 5-8 and 178 pounds. That’s lighter than almost any other starting wideout in the NFL. DeVonta Smith was drafted last year at 175, but now lists at 180. But he’s also 6-0, not a diminutive 5-8.

There’s no denying how well he played against top college competition last year, and he’s been a sore spot for Nebraska’s head coach Scott Frost since he did not use him to his potential. There are plenty of promising characteristics for Robinson, but they’ll balance against the few notable concerns.

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Table: Wan’Dale Robinson NCAA stats (2018-21)

Year	School	Games	Catch	Yards	Avg.	TD	Runs	Yards	TD
2019	Nebraska	10	40	453	11.3	2	88	340	5
2020	Nebraska	8	51	461	9.0	1	46	240	2
2021	Kentucky	13	104	1334	12.8	7	7	111	7

Pros

Deep threat playmaker
Explosive first step that creates and maintains separation
Dangerous in the open field
Can score on any play
Abuses coverage on vertical routes
Excelled against top SEC competition
Offers versatile usage with rushing ability
Sharp route runner
Elite stop-and-go acceleration
Projects as a slot receiver that won’t be covered by a linebacker

Cons

Only one season as a starting wide receiver
Small frame (5-8, 178 pounds) biggest concern against elite NFL press coverage
Smaller catch radius
Not likely to be considered for outside role
Fast but not truly elite speed

Fantasy outlook

Wan’Dale Robinson has been an explosive playmaker that can impact the game on any catch. He was used as a true wideout in only one season but dominated secondaries when he did. He’s been likened to Tyreek Hill though he’s a bit smaller (Hill 5-10, 185) and more importantly slower (4.44 vs. 4.29 40-times). Also to Brandin Cooks (5-10, 4.33 40-time). Those NFL wideouts have been highly successful, but their slightly larger frames and faster speed are undeniable difference makers.

Robinson should be a lock to play the slot. He’s been successful against top-end college defenses, but in a league where every defensive back was a star coverage back in college, he’ll have to prove himself again. Robinson won’t offer a big target radius for a quarterback who will need to be more accurate to connect with him. But – he runs precise routes and doesn’t drop passes.

The NFL is ever evolving, and there are more opportunities for versatile backs that can be used in a number of roles. Cooks and Hill aside, there are plenty of past receivers that couldn’t find success in the NFL after wowing in college thanks in large part to the realities of smaller size. And Robinson only played as a true starting wideout for one year (but 104 catches proved he made the transition with ease).

He could have a quieter rookie season learning the NFL way and how to apply his strengths against defenses. If he ends up with one of the more accurate quarterbacks in an offense that loves to pass, he’ll become a fantasy factor even this year. He’s most likely a third-round pick but will become a hot property on Day 3 if he falls that far.

2022 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR David Bell, Purdue

Will speed concerns hold back Bell from reaching his potential?

An Indiana native, wide receiver David Bell stayed home and burst onto the scene with the Purdue Boilermakers, registering 86 receptions for 1,035 yards and eight total scores as a true freshman. He was Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a Freshman All-American honoree.

In 2020’s abbreviated season, the four-star recruit and high school basketball standout was selected to the first-team All-Big Ten squad with two more total scores than games played.

Height: 6-foot 7/8
Weight: 212 pounds
40 time: 4.65 seconds

A year later, Bell saved his best for last before declaring to enter the pros. His 93-1,286-6 line earned recognition as a first-team Associated Press All-American and the Big Ten Receiver of the Year.

Table: David Bell NCAA stats (2019-21)

Year	School	Class	Gm	Receiving				Rushing
Year	School	Class	Gm	Rec	Yds	Avg	TD	Att	Yds	Avg	TD
2019	Purdue	FR	12	86	1,035	12.0	7	3	12	4.0	1
2020	Purdue	SO	6	53	625	11.8	8	—	—	—	—
*2021	Purdue	JR	11	93	1,286	13.8	6	3	39	13.0	0

*includes postseason/bowl games

Pros

Among the best route-running skills of any receiver coming out this year
Excellent body control, spatial awareness, and balance
Fluid in the open field and does a tremendous job of maximizing his yardage per catch
Unafraid of going over the middle in heavy traffic
Plus-release repertoire and displays a knack for lulling defenders to sleep with his route cadence
Late hands and demonstrates the ability to make highlight-reel catches
Dangerous in the screen game — can have plays manufactured for him out of the backfield and around the line of scrimmage

Also see: 2022 NFL Draft Central

Cons

Lacks speed to separate and probably won’t outrun too many defenders — a 4.65-second 40 at the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine was followed up with a more disappointing 4.68 time at his pro day
Despite making some spectacular hands catches, he tends to allow too many passes into the body
Less experience out of the slot than ideal — profiles best as a split end
Potentially low ceiling in the NFL — may need to haul in considerable volume to overcome physical limitations
Limited potential as a blocker

Fantasy football outlook

Bell surely has enough exciting film to suggest he has a chance to break through in fantasy, but system fit will be key. He will benefit the most from playing in a system that utilizes short- to intermediate-area passing with an increased degree of mesh routes to allow his agility to take over. He’s not going to be at his best in a vertical system, although there’s also increased potential from him in play-action-heavy systems.

Bell’s lack of straightline speed and just average burst indicate a likely third-day selection in the upcoming draft. Speculating on his immediate value does no one any favors, but the long-term prognostication is likely capped in the low-end WR2 neighborhood for PPR purposes.