April Fantasy Football Observations

It is never too early to start thinking Fantasy Football. I like to formulate a few of my own unorthodox ideas about the upcoming season before the onslaught of magazines and web site power rankings skews my thinking.

It helps keep my perspective fresh. Sure, it doesn't take a genius to remember that Brady is the fantasy Messiah, and the Draft is still upcoming, but here are seven players who can help your team win. Let me know what you think.

Jason Witten

If the T.O. trade has taught us anything, it's that Offensive Coordinator Jason Garrett places a premium on the Tight End when considering skill positions.

I attended the Week 17 Eagles-Cowboys game, and one thing that stood out was the emphasis placed on pre-snap motion by the tight end, and Witten's priority in that offense.

He is the first look on almost every read by Romo. A top-tier tight end is essential to a consistent fantasy football team, and can be had in the middle rounds depending upon draft position.

Witten, although likely the first or second tight end taken in most drafts, is a sure thing.

San Diego Defense

Shawn Merriman is back. SHAWN MERRIMAN IS BACK.

Throw in the best corner in the league(Cromartie), an unstoppable offense, and an expensive kick return man(Sproules), and the result is defense that will get turnovers, score on special teams, and rack up sacks.

And much like a good tight end, a good defense can be had in the later rounds and score more points than most mid-round picks.

Larry Johnson

A good QB = Defense can't stack the box = Larry Johnson 5.0 yards per carry. Should probably go in late first round, don't hesitate to draft him, he's a stud.

Matt Hasselbeck

NOW WE'RE DONE! With Matt healthy and refueled from all the EAS Myoplex, he should be ready to produce at his regular pro-bowl level again.

Antonio Bryant

Make no mistake, Bryant is more than just an athlete, he is a freak of nature. Maturity issues and discipline problems have been the two biggest obstacles in his career, and the second half of last season was something of a break-out year, in the mold of Chad Johnson ala 2002.

This upcoming season should only see continued success, as the Bucs acquisition of Kellen Winslow will force opposing teams to leave Bryant in single coverage. This could be the last season Bryant remains undervalued.

Darren McFadden

Overvalued last year, undervalued this year. Don't forget about this kid. In an age of running back by committee, the RB who can stay in on all three downs is essential.

If the Raiders can keep games competitive for just a little while, McFadden will excel. He can run and catch, and depending on how much his pass blocking improves in the offseason, he could be an every down back.

He'll probably be ranked near the likes of Steve Slaton, and though riskier, has much more upside. He could produce like a first round draft pick given the right set of circumstances.

And if a quality QB like Jeff Garcia takes over as starting QB, McFadden is a sure thing. A lot of IF's, but that is why we talk about Fantasy Football in April.

Warrick Dunn

Year in and year out, the most undervalued Fantasy Football producer in the NFL. Currently not on an NFL roster, but rest assured, he'll be signed by some team in need of depth, then quietly emerge as a starter who gains yards, catches balls, scores touchdowns, and blocks.

Could probably be drafted in the last round this year, or be picked up from the waiver wire.