Fantasy Football Profile: Philip Rivers

Rivers has developed into one of the games best young QBs, but I think he takes a step back in 2009. 

LaDainian Tomlinson played hurt last year, which limited his effectiveness and production. 

Plus, not having Shawne Merriman wreaked havoc on the Chargers’ defense. 

Having two healthy running backs should change the way they attack defenses. 

Rivers still has enough weapons (Antonio Gates, LT and Darren Sproles out of the backfield, Vincent Jackson, Chris Chambers, and Malcom Floyd) to be a top-end QB.  

I just don’t see him approaching 34 TDs again.

Rivers has some tough matchups (Oakland twice, Baltimore, Miami, Pittsburgh, N.Y. Giants, Philly, and Tennessee) as well as some favorable ones (Denver twice, Kansas City twice, Cleveland, and Cincinnati).  His fantasy playoff schedule (Weeks 14-16) is fairly difficult as he faces Dallas, Cincy, and Tennessee. 

Despite some tough matchups, I would still take Rivers in the fourth round.  I expect him to throw for around 3800 yards and 24 TDs.

This article was originally published at LestersLegends.com.