It worked well for Maurice Jones-Drew, and there is no reason to believe that Carolina won't be putting Stewart into plenty of scoring opportunities. He is a solid No. 3 fantasy running back, and could develop into more as the season goes on.
If you are in a keeper league, he has even more value.
WR/TE
Steve Smith/D.J. Hackett/Jeff King
I don't think it is a stretch to say that Steve Smith is the most talented receiver under 6' tall.
That said, he will only play up to his potential if Delhomme plays up to his own. If Delhomme does stay healthy and play well, Smith will a solid No. 1 receiver on any fantasy team. The addition of two capable receivers will take pressure away from him, and that only makes him a better pick.
Hackett has been on the verge of breaking out for a couple of seasons now, but hasn't found the right place to do it yet. Carolina is as good a place as any, and starting opposite of Smith is sure to make things easier.
The injury prone receiver could emerge as a red-zone target due to his height compared to Smith and his great hands. Call him a No. 3 fantasy receiver with upside.
King doesn't offer fantasy owners much. He is a great blocker and a solid tight end to have in protection schemes, but don't expect too many catches out of him. The arrivals of Hackett and Muhammad won't get him any extra catches either.
K
John Kasey
He has decent accuracy...until he gets beyond 50 yards. He has made roughly half of his kicks from 50 or more yards in each of the last three seasons.
His value will depend purely on the offense. If they click, he could be a good waiver wire pick-up.
DEF/ST
The Panthers' defense used to be known for its defensive lineman, but the departure of DT Kris Jenkins and DE Mike Rucker is quickly changing that. Their strong suit will be their linebackers this season, led by Jon Beason, Na'il Diggs, and rookie Dan Conner.
So what does this mean fantasy-wise? It means they will probably give up more yards on the ground. Fortunately, their offense will most likely put them ahead most games, so teams will be passing more anyway. Too bad their safeties are another liability.
Their return game in non-existent outside of Steve Smith, and I can't imagine Smith taking a lot of returns if he is as involved in the offensive game plan as he should be.
Don't look here for a defensive unit this season.
Top Five Carolina Panthers Fantasy Players
1. Steve Smith
2. Jonathan Stewart
3. DeAngelo Williams
4. Jake Delhomme
5. D.J. Hackett
Bye Week: 9
1 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete