Fantasy Scouting Report: Roddy White

Roddy White   

Atlanta Falcons   

Age:  27   

Height:  6’0”   

Weight:  208lbs   

Bye: Week Four

Why We Like Him:  White is quickly turning into one of the NFL’s elite receivers as he possesses blazing open field speed and reliable hands.  He was instrumental in Atlanta’s turnaround last season, ranking fourth in receiving yards (1,382), eighth in receptions (88), 10th in touchdowns (seven), and seventh in targets (148) as he closed out his best professional campaign as a top-five fantasy wide receiver. 

What we love about White is his dependability. 

He posted seven games with 100+ receiving yards and caught 5 or more passes in ten contests last year.  As sophomore quarterback Matt Ryan continues to improve, White’s numbers will continue to impress. 

Bruising running back Michael Turner and new addition Tony Gonzalez will help keep defenses honest, leaving White free to cause havoc on the outside.

Why We Don’t Like Him:  While the addition of Gonzalez will keep defenses from rolling coverage in White’s direction, it will also have a negative impact on his red zone targets. 

Gonzo is one of the NFL’s best tight ends when his offense gets near the goal line and owners should expect Ryan to be looking his way when the Falcons get close to pay dirt. 

Additionally, the Falcons don’t have the element of surprise in 2009 like they did last year, meaning opposing teams are going to be ready for them every week. 

Fantasy Outlook:  The upside here is so good that owners should feel comfortable pulling the trigger on White.  He’s young and has all the physical tools you could ask for in a top-notch wide out. 

In addition, Ryan will continue to get better as he gets more experience under center and the potent Atlanta rushing attack will force the opposition to play honest, opening up the secondary for White to strike. 

While Gonzo is sure to steal some red zone targets, his presence is still a benefit for White.  Target him towards the fourth round.

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