Fantasy Value: Brandon Marshall

How do the recent reports of a trade request affect Brandon Marshall's draft status?

Well, plain and simple, it doesn't!

Whether it's Baltimore, Chicago, or Canadian football, Marshall should be taken within the first three rounds.

Luckily, fantasy football has an advantage over the NFL. We, as owners, don't have to worry about off-the-field issues and locker room chemistry a player has. We have the amazing ability to sit back and appreciate what players bring to the game of football.

I don't care if his court case results in a suspension of four games.

Take a look at the first game Marshall played after his suspension last season. He caught 18 passes for 166 yards and had one touchdown that game.

Marshall did not have one game (besides the game he was suspended) that did not consist of at least two catches. That is what I call consistency from a position that rarely has that attribute.

Marshall has compiled 226 receptions, 2,899 yards, and 15 touchdowns as a starter—not bad at all.

Marshall's total number of catches and yards over the last two years are more than Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, and Reggie Wayne have produced.

This puts Marshall among and above the elite receivers in the league.

As for fantasy status, nothing should hold you back from this guy. No matter which team he is on or the trouble he may get himself into, the guy can produce.

In fantasy football, there is nothing more important than production.