2010 FF Impact Rookie: WR Brandon LaFell To Start for Panthers?

After watching video of LSU receiver Brandon LaFell this off-season, I was surprised that he fell into the third round of the NFL draft. This young talent seemed more polished than many receivers that come into the NFL, and it seemed like he would be ready to make an impact right away.

Audio: 2010 FF Impact Rookie: WR Brandon LaFell To Start For Panthers?

Fortunately, for the Panthers LaFell dropped into their lap and with Muhsin Muhammad leaving the team this year it was vital that they find a young replacement to start opposite Steve Smith. Because Coach John Fox is such a loyalist to veterans I thought early on that Dwayne Jarrett would finally get a starting gig with LaFell and fellow rookie Armanti Edwards chipping in.

That doesn't look to be the case in training camp as LaFell has continued to line up with the first team, and Jarrett has had rumors of being cut before the season begins.

2010 Fantasy Projection For Brandon LaFell

LaFell may not be drafted in many leagues this summer, but I wouldn't be surprised if he's a hot waiver wire pickup at some point this season. With Matt Moore under center, the Panthers have a very undervalued passing attack and fantasy owners should be able to get at decent value.

With Smith having question marks about his arm (broken twice in less than a year), it could be LaFell who is the team's top receiver for fantasy if something should happen to the veteran again.

If LaFell wins a starting job and impresses this preseason, than he would make for a decent late round pick on draft day. At the very least he should make for a nice option in the passing game to help the chains move in Carolina and a bye week fill in for fantasy football.

NFL fantasy football player rankings writer Sean E. Douglas: fantasy-info.com

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