With the First Pick in the 2011 NFL Fantasy Draft...

With the lockout finally ended and preseason winding down, the anticipation builds for the upcoming regular season. 

The start of the regular season also marks the beginning of fantasy football. I personally don’t get involved with the whole fantasy mumbo jumbo. However, it does spark the imagination of "what could be if.."

So, I’ve decided to do a fantasy spin-off and create my own 2011-2012 fantasy squad. I’ve read articles listing each teams’ best players and the best players at each position. This list is a spin-off of all of them combined.

Feel free to post your own 32-man fantasy squad in the comments section.

RULES

Before we get started, I’m going to lay down some ground rules (You didn’t think I’d make it that easy, did you?).

To ensure all teams are represented equally, there will be only one player selected from each team. Some teams are overloaded with talent, while others are as talent barren as the Arctic Circle. This should make it a little more tricky.

All positions must be filled by at least one person. There are 32 players, so you should have eight players to place in reserve wherever you want. You have the option of running a 3-4, 4-3 or hybrid defense. However, you must have at least one player at each position. I’m usually a fan of the traditional 4-3, but in this list I decided to go with a 3-4.

With so many offensive looks nowadays, go crazy with it. I’m going with a traditional offense with a fullback. Just make sure you have each position filled.

You must include a Kicker AND Punter. Sorry, I know this sucks, but they are a part of the team. Return specialist is optional.

No rookies. I was tempted to take Marcell Dareus, Patrick Peterson, AJ Green and Von Miller. However, let’s reserve these spots for players that already have some real NFL experience under their belt.

HAVE FUN!!!

BALTIMORE RAVENS

Haloti Ngata: DE

Before I get into my reasoning, this was both a tough and easy decision. Let me state up front and without shame state that I LOVE Ray Rice. I got hooked on watching Scarlet Knights highlights prior to the 2008 NFL draft. Growing up a Lions fan, it was like watching the reincarnation of Barry Sanders. 

Now that that’s out of my system, this pick could have gone a number of directions, from Ray Lewis to Ed Reed to Michael Oher.

However, football is won in the trenches. Who else would you rather have lined up in the trenches than Haloti Ngata?

The 6’-4”, 350-lb behemoth has been anchoring the D-line of one of the most prolific defenses since 2006. He already has two Pro-Bowl selections and three All-Pro nods thus far in his short NFL career.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Leon Hall: CB

I loved Rey Maualuga coming out of college and thought Cincinnati got a steal when they picked him up in the second round. I believe he will be an all pro for years to come.

With that said, I was teetering back and forth between Maualuga, Peko and Hall, and finally decided on Hall for depth purposes. With the league going pass happy, I decided to go with the under-appreciated and oft forgotten Leon Hall.

When top corner-backs are discussed, Leon Hall is seldom mentioned. He doesn’t have any Pro-Bowl selections on his resume but is as consistent as they come. Here’s a shout out to you, Leon.

CLEVELAND BROWNS

Joe Thomas: LT

There is nothing sexy or mind blowing about Joe Thomas. Joe is the model of consistency.

The former Wisconsin Badger and Outland Trophy winner has been to the Pro-Bowl in his first four seasons in the league. He has also garnered two first team All-Pro selections and one second team All-Pro selection.

He is the cornerstone to an improving Browns offense and arguably the best offensive tackle in the League. Apparently the Browns agree, as evidenced by their seven year/$84 million contract offer.

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Troy Polamalu: SS

This roster spot could have gone to a number of Steeler players. However, it came down to who I’d least like to meet in a dark alley.

Few players strike fear into opponents the way Polamalu does. Reckless abandon is the phrase that best sums up the four time All-Pro. Win or lose, you can get your money’s worth watching Polamalu play. Everything is left on the field. He’s just as effective against the run and pass.

With multiple Super Bowls and Pro-Bowls under his belt, Polamalu can retire now and still have accomplished what many players can only dream of. Polamalu embodies everything that is Pittsburgh football—tough, gritty, hard hitting and balls to the wall defense.

HOUSTON TEXANS

Andre Johnson: WR

Size, speed, route running, hands…you name it, he’s got it.

Johnson is arguably the best receiver in the league. In my fantasy offense, I want someone who can stretch the field and make plays. Johnson can do both.  

Johnson logged 1,216 yards last year in only 13 games. At 6’-3” and 223-lbs, Johnson is a beast of a receiver (What were you thinking Courtland Finnegan?).

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Peyton Manning: QB

Yes, his neck is questionable. Yes, he is getting older. But, when a single player decides whether or not you are a playoff team, I’ll take a chance on him. For a guy that moves like a tortoise and can barely jump over a soda can, he’s had an alright career. So, neck injury or not, Manning is behind center.

Manning is not on this list because of his physical tools. He is the smartest QB of this generation and a true student of the game. If I could mount Manning’s head on Michael Vick's body, Madden developers would need to create the first 200 rated player.

Instead of creating a boring list of his credentials, I’ll just say that they’re probably working on Manning’s bust for Canton as we speak. On my fantasy team, I have Manning throwing for roughly 6,500 yards without his left arm.

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

Marcedes Lewis: TE

You probably thought I was going to pick MJD. Although I love MJD, I need a big, nasty, blocking, TD catching tight end on my team. At 6’6”, 275-lbs, Lewis fits the bill.

Lewis led all tight ends with 10 TDs last year.  But, before that, he was clearing the way for Mighty Mouse Maurice Jones-Drew.

Definitely not the sexiest pick on this list, but definitely an area of need.

TENNESSEE TITANS

Chris Johnson: RB

You can squawk all you want about his contract holdout, but you can’t deny the fact that Chris Johnson is a baller. 

One of two backs on my roster, Johnson is lightning in a bottle. Johnson can go on a 50-yard sprint at any time in the game. In three short years, the speedster out of East Carolina has already racked up 4,598 yards and 34 TD’s. 

Along with his speed, Johnson has the ability to run between the tackles and catch the ball out of the backfield. I need versatility and game changing ability, and Johnson is exactly that.

BUFFALO BILLS

Jairus Byrd: FS

Stevie Johnson would probably be the sexy pick at this point in time. However, I decided to go with Byrd for depth purposes.

Byrd blew the league away during his 2009 rookie season by recording nine interceptions. Much like the Leon Hall pick, I think Byrd is a talented and underrated player.

I expect Byrd to log a few Pro-Bowls before he hangs up his cleats.

MIAMI DOLPHINS

Jake Long: T

As I mentioned earlier, games are won in the trenches. Well, Ngata, meet your counterpart, Jake Long.

The 6’7” former first overall pick has been selected to three Pro-Bowls and has garnered one All-Pro selection.

Now if Miami could only find a competent QB for Long to block for. Until then, he can block for my all-star cast.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Vince Wilfork: NT

Vince Wilfork? Yes, Vince Wilfork.

I decided to go with the plug that anchors the Patriots defense. Finding a good nose tackle is crucial to a successful 3-4 defense. The job sucks and is far from glorious.

However, ask the Denver Broncos what life was like without a competent run stuffing NT.  It’s hard to gauge the value of NT by analyzing individual statistics, but judging by his recent three Pro-Bowl selections, I’d say he’s a pretty safe bet.

NEW YORK JETS

Darrelle Revis: CB

Who else did you think would appear on this slide?

Much like NT’s, finding a true shutdown corner is one of the most difficult tasks for coaches and general managers.

Revis has all the physical tools and skills to be an all-time great. He is hands down the best CB in the league. Here is the stat line for 2010 Pro-Bowl WR’s vs. Revis during the regular season:

• Brandon Lloyd—four catches, 74 yards, 0 TD
• Greg Jennings—six catches, 81 yards, 0 TD
• Calvin Johnson—one catch, 13 yards, 0 TD
• Andre Johnson—four catches, 32 yards, 0 TD

Two Words: Revis Island.

Denver Broncos

Champ Bailey: CB

From the league’s current top corner to the league’s former top corner. 

Until Revis came along, Champ was the best corner—by a long shot—for the last decade. Sure he’s lost a step, but he’s still among the top corners in the league. 

Like I mentioned earlier, the NFL is turning into a pass happy league and you can never have enough quality corners. That’s exactly the reason Bailey is the pick here.  Much like Manning, Canton is probably already preparing a spot for the 10-time Pro-Bowler.

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Le’Ron McClain: FB

Le’Ron McClain? Sure I would have loved to have the speedy Charles or the big bodied Bowe, but this pick is purely for versatility purposes.

Not only can McClain clear running lanes, but he can also act as power back. When given full time carries in 2008, McClain ran for 900 yards and 10 TDs.

The league hasn’t had this type of fullback since Mike Alstott.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

Shane Lechler: P

Al Davis may be the worst talent evaluator in the league, but he sure does know how to pick special teams personnel.

Like McClain, Lechler is a superstar at an inglorious position. Also like McClain, if I’m going to pick a player, I might as well go with the best one available.

Lechler is a six time Pro-Bowl selection and an eight time All-Pro. His 47 yard average in 2010 was second only to Matt McBriar’s 47.9. However, his 47.3 average yards per punt is tops all time.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Antonio Gates: TE

The second and final TE on my team, Antonio Gates has had himself a pretty good career. The Chargers struck gold after signing the 2003 undrafted free agent out of Kent State.

Since then the seven time Pro-Bowler has gone on to log 529 catches, for 7005 yards and 69 TDs.  At 6’4” and 260-lbs, he’s also been a key to San Diego’s potent running game.

Not much explanation needed here.

CHICAGO BEARS

Robbie Gould: K

With all the defensive play-makers on the Chicago roster you’re probably left scratching your head right now.

No offense to the Chicago defense (I made a funny), but I really needed a kicker and Robbie was my best option when it came down to it.

He has an 85.5 percent career average, has the leg strength to boot it 50-plus yards and plays in one of the worst environments for kickers. I like my chances with Gould kicking for my team.

DETROIT LIONS

Ndamukong Suh: DE

This was such a tough choice. I so wanted to take Megatron, but how can you not go with the first ROOKIE DT to be selected to the Pro-Bowl in 50 years!!! Not to mention an All-Pro nod as well.

Yes, you read the heading correctly, he is slated at DE. Prior to last year’s draft, analysts were suggesting he would be even better in a 3-4 defense. Well, one year, 66 tackles, 10 sacks, one interception and one TD later, that notion is even scarier. 

Suh will join my defensive squad of scary people. Suh+Wilfork+Ngata=A LOT OF PAIN!!!

GREEN BAY PACKERS

Aaron Rodgers: QB

Even with Raji, Woodson, Matthews, Jennings and Collins staring me in the face, Rodgers is the right pick. How can he not be?

Fresh off a Super Bowl victory, Rodgers has nothing left to prove. He has made Packer fans forget about Bret…what’s his name??? He has improved each year in the league and is the consummate professional.

There aren’t many other people in the NFL I’d rather have under center.

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Adrian Peterson: RB

Chris Johnson was the lighting and Peterson is the thunder.  Size, speed and raw power.

Peterson is what Ladanian Tomlinson was back in the early 2000’s. With Peterson you can expect at least 1,200 yards and 10 TDs a year.

Thus far, Peterson has amassed 5,782 yards, with 4.8 yards per carry and 52 TD’s in his short career. On my team, I project a 2,800 yard, 25 TD year.

ATLANTA FALCONS

Roddy White: WR

With my roster filling up quickly, I am still in need of play-making receivers. Hello Roddy White!!!

White has made Matt Ryan’s transition into the NFL a smooth one. The All-Pro receiver has made the last three Pro-Bowls and led the league in receptions in 2010.

Along with Andre Johnson, Roddy White joins the debate of “Who is the best WR in the NFL?”

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Ryan Kalil: C

The former Trojan has been a bright spot on a rather disappointing Panthers squad over the last few years. Though Cam Newton will need time to develop, he can at least count on consistent play from the sturdy Kalil.

Kalil has made the last two Pro-Bowls and looks to be a staple for years to come.

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Jahri Evans: G

Instead of picking up one of the league’s best QB, I’m going after one of the league’s best guards. 

At 6’4” and 318-lbs, Evans has blossomed into a solid force on the Saints’ O-line. He was a key cog in the Saints’ 2010 Super Bowl run and has made the last two Pro-Bowls. 

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Gerald McCoy: DT

This is kind of a sleeper pick. I wanted to list Talib or Freeman on here, but Talib has some anger issues and I already have two quality QBs on the roster.

McCoy or Suh was the question heading into the 2010 NFL draft.  Detroit picked Suh, Tampa picked McCoy. McCoy got off to a slow start, but started to hit his stride midway through the season. He picked up three sacks before being lost for the season. 

I’m going to take a chance on McCoy and see what happens.  This will also allow me to shift some guys around on the line and go with a 3-4/4-3 hybrid defense.

Imagine a rotation of Suh, McCoy, Wilfork and Ngata…goosebumps.

DALLAS COWBOYS

DeMarcus Ware: OLB

This is a no brainer. Ware is a sack master. The six-year vet has not failed to notch double digit sacks since his rookie year.

Nobody in the league has put the QB down more than Ware over the last five seasons.  Ware has made the Pro-Bowl five of six years in the league.

If he keeps it up, he will join the ranks of linebacker legends Derrick Brooks and Junior Seau.

NEW YORK GIANTS

Chris Snee: G

The Giants are known for their hard-nosed running attack. However, any running back will tell you that the running attack starts up front.

Chris Snee rounds out my group of trench warriors. The 6’3”, 318-lbs three time Pro-Bowl guard will be opening gaping holes for my juggernaut thunder and lightning running attack.

As scary as my D-line may be, my QBs and RBs should feel safe and sound behind this O-line.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

Nnamdi Asomugha: CB

Lucky for me, Asomugha signed with Eagles, so I can now sign Aso and Lechler without breaking the rules. Thank you free agency. 

There are only really two names that come up when talking about the league’s best CB. Revis gets the edge, with Aso not far behind.  It's hard to play the stats game because nobody even bothered throwing Aso’s way. 

Revis+Asomugha+Bailey+Hall=Low QB Rating

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Brian Orakpo: OLB/DE

Having Orakpo on board would provide flexibility and depth, and also allow for a 3-4/4-3 hybrid attack.

Orakpo has made a name for himself at OLB, but at Texas he was a standout DE. He has been selected to two straight Pro-Bowls and looks to be a mainstay at the annual all-star game.

ARIZONA CARDINALS

Larry Fitzgerald: WR

Fitzgerald rounds out my star studded receiving corps.

Warner and Fitzgerald almost won Super Bowl XLIII on their own. Even a rag tag 2010 QB carousel couldn’t keep Fitzgerald from being selected to his fifth Pro-Bowl. With 90 catches, 1,137 yards and six TDs on a “down year,” I’ll take my chances.

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Patrick Willis: MLB

Thus far, I have not chosen a single MLB. Well, here he is.

Willis burst on to the scene in 2007 by leading the league with 135 solo tackles…AS A ROOKIE!!! He’s has been selected to every Pro-Bowl since being drafted. He is the heart and identity of this 49er squad.

In four seasons, the two time Butkus award winner has racked up 595 combined tackles, 459 solo tackles, 15 sacks, four picks and eight forced fumbles. In comparison, Ray Lewis had 525 combined tackles, 374 tackles, six sacks, 11 picks and five forced fumbles between 2001 and 2004.

There is nobody even on Willis’ level at this time in the NFL.

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Earl Thomas: FS

The last two members of my team have not made any Pro-Bowls…yet.

Thomas racked up 74 tackles, one forced fumble and five picks as a rookie last season.  Some analysts have compared the former Longhorn to Ed Reed. If he resembles anything like Reed, Seahawk fans have a lot to look forward to.

ST. LOUIS RAMS

James Laurinaitis: MLB

The final MLB and member of my 32-man roster, James Laurinaitis has a bright future ahead of him.

Laurinaitis entered a linebacker laden 2009 NFL draft and ended up with the Rams. To be honest, I was thoroughly surprised to see both Laurinaitis and Maualuga fall all the way to the second round.

Since then, he has racked up 234 combined tackles, 205 solo tackles, five sacks, three picks and one forced fumble. If he continues to improve, he could challenge Willis for the best MLB title.

Until then, I’ll gladly line up these two together in my monster 3-4 defense.

EXTRA CREDIT

Head Coach: Bill Belichick

Nobody knows how to use his players like Belichick. Not only is he a beast on the sidelines but also an absolute genius in the front office.

Plus, with all these ego's on one team, I'm going to need a no-nonsense head coach. You don't get more no-nonsense than Bill Belichick.

Offensive Coordinator: Sean Payton

From perennial NFL doormat to perennial Super Bowl contender, nobody knows how to run an offense like Payton.

Defensive Coordinator: Dick LeBaeau

If I'm going to run a 3-4 defense, why not go with the man who knows it the best. No explanation needed here.

GM: Martin Mayhew

Yes, I'm a Lions fan, so this pick is biased. However, Mayhew has been a absolute bandit in the front office since taking over for "He Who Shall Not Be Named."

OVERVIEW

So here's an overview of my 2011-2012 fantasy squad:

QB: Aaron Rodgers

RB: Adrian Peterson

FB: Le'Ron McClain

LT: Joe Thomas

LG: Chris Snee

C: Ryan Kalil

RG: Jahri Evans

RT: Jake Long

WR: Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald

TE: Antonio Gates

Reserves: Roddy White, Chris Johnson, Peyton Manning, Marcedes Lewis

DE: Suh, Ngata

NT: Vince Wilfork

LOLB: Brian Orakpo

ROLB: DeMarcus Ware

MLB: Patrick Willis, James Laurinaitis

CB: Darrelle Revis, Nnamdi Asomugha

FS: Earl Thomas

SS: Troy Polamalu

Reserves: Gerald McCoy, Champ Bailey, Leon Hall, Jairus Byrd

Kicker: Robbie Gould

Punter: Shane Lechler