NFL Fantasy Football Rookie Spotlight: NFC West

Kristopher Knox by Contributor Written on July 03, 2009
TEMPE, AZ - MAY 1 :  Chris Wells #26 of the Arizona Cardinals runs during a team minicamp at the team training facility on May 1, 2009 in Tempe, Arizona.  (Photo by Jonathan Willey/Getty Images) (Photo by Jonathan Willey/Getty Images)

ARIZONA CARDINALS

Chris Wells, first(31), RB, Ohio State - In Wells, The Cardinals have found a powerful runner with game changing ability and toughness. In college, Wells had 93.94 yards per game average with 17 100-yard games, making Wells a viable #1 fantasy back. His biggest concern is injury-risk, but Arizona's pass heavy offense should be enough to keep his number of carries managable and him rested and healthy.

Could Surprise

Michael Ray Garvin, UFA, WR, Florida State - Arizona is deep with talented receivers, but Garvin's speed( a 4.24 40 time at pro day) could get him some early playing time. Garvin was second in the nation last year with a 30.1 yard kick return average.


ST. LOUIS RAMS 

Brooks Foster, fifth(160), WR, North Carolina - The Rams add a big, physical receiver with Foster. He has freakish athleticism, and a relentless motor. He is expected to start out on special teams, but with a lack of depth at the position, Foster could be on offense early. Foster's size and soft hands give him the skills to develop into a strong, reliable possession receiver.

Could Surprise

Sean Walker, UFA, WR Vanderbilt - Walker is a tall, athletic target with an impressive 13.8 yards per reception in his college career. He did enough at mini camp to earn a roster spot, and now is expected to compete for playing time.

 

SAN FRANCISCO 49ers

Michael Crabtree, first(10) WR, Texas Tech - Perhaps the biggest playmaker in the entire draft, Crabtree is a natural pass catcher with outstanding ability and upside. He should start from day one and has the potential to put up good first year numbers if the 49ers can settle on a quarterback. A virtual no-brainer for keeper leagues.

Could Surprise

Glen Coffee, third(74), RB, Alabama - Coffee has a great combination of size and speed and a strong work ethic. A bit of a surprise pick with powerful Frank Gore on the roster. As San Francisco focuses on a strong running attack, however, Coffee should see plenty of snaps complementing Gore, and has a big upside.

 

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Deon Butler, third(91) WR, Penn State - Quick and athletic, Butler finished his career at Penn State as the school's all-time receptions leader. He is a bit undersized, and considered more of a developmental project, however,  Butler has the skills to see early playing time in the slot. He has the ability to develop into a very reliable weapon for Seattle's passing attack.

Could Surprise

Cameron Morrah, seventh(248), TE, California - A 7th round compensatory pick Morrah provides depth behind starter John Carlson. He is a quick and reliable tight end who has the physical skills to develop into a solid target in the future. 

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written on July 03, 2009 Sports

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