Don’t let Christian McCaffrey’s calf woe dissuade you. (Sports Illustrated)
New York Jets QB Aaron Rodgers revealed in his soon-to-be-published biography that he wasn’t truthful about getting “immunized” against COVID-19; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says that holdout wide receiver CeeDee Lamb is “missed”; and Denver Broncos rookie QB Bo Nix led the team to four scoring drives (out of five total drives) in his preseason debut.
Taking CMC First
Two and a half years ago, dynasty owners were panicking about Christian McCaffrey given his uncertain quarterback situation and extensive injury history, but we remained undeterred and even pleaded with you to try to buy low.
And all he’s done since is remain healthy (missing just one game over the last two years) and continue to get better and better, in 2023 setting career highs in rushing yards, YPC, receiving TDs and total scores.
Small wonder that McCaffrey is universally expected to be the No. 1 pick in all formats this season.
While Brock Purdy had a historically efficient 2023 season as the QB of the San Francisco 49ers, it is CMC that drives the 49er offense and the more likely candidate to win MVP in 2024… not to mention the fact that he seems more likable somehow given that he doesn’t give a crap about your Fantasy team (see video below).
Since McCaffrey was taken seventh overall in 2017, we’ve seen his strengths play out: speed, ability to make explosive plays and slashing prowess. There’s no doubt his frame has made him susceptible to injuries and that will remain a concern for the rest of his career (he’s currently dealing with a calf woe that will keep him out of the preseason, but he’s expected to be good to go for the season opener), however, those of you that held on to him in 2022 have been rewarded greatly.
For 2024, McCaffrey is obviously expected to be the RB1 — and probably the best overall player — in Fantasy football. He ranked fourth in explosive run rate last year and while some regression is likely (think around 265 to 270 Fantasy points), he should still top all running backs this season in Fantasy scoring.
Roman Wilson Dealing With Ankle Woe
There’s a fair bit of excitement about rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson, the 2024 third round pick (84th overall) by the Pittsburgh Steelers, but it’s been muted by his current ankle injury.
Still, things are trending up as he’s not limping as much, no longer needs a brace, and was spotted at practice on Monday doing some “light” work. Obviously, the injury has pushed Wilson pretty far down the list of expected leaders in receiving yards for rookies (currently +5000 at FanDuel), but do not sleep on this dude.
The University of Michigan product brings speed, quickness and explosiveness to the table, but may be limited to being a slot receiver given his size (5’11”, 185). Before Wilson got hurt, he was being drafted just outside the top 150 and that seemed like good value given the opportunity he had to make an impact from Day One.
Unfortunately, Wilson is currently missing key adjustment time, so that may delay his timeline to being a starter. As this point in time, we’d consider him a Top 80 WR with massive upside potential as the season progresses.
If we hear more positive news about Wilson leading up the season opener, consider him as a last round flier option.
RotoRob Tune of the Day
American jazz saxophonist Stan Getz got his start in 1943 and remained active until his death in 1991. In 1976, he reunited with Joao Gilberto for The Best of Two Worlds, which led off with “Double Rainbow.”