Drew Brees (QB), New Orleans Saints
Drew Brees has been a top fantasy QB for what feels like the last decade. The Saints’ QB has always put up huge numbers in a pass-heavy scheme that can turn seemingly average players into stars. While the yardage and completion percentage was there last season, the TD/INT ratio approached a more mortal 2/1. Brees also lost his main red zone target in TE Jimmy Graham, which could also hurt his numbers. Don’t take Brees off your board, but don’t select him based on past performance only.
LeSean McCoy (RB), Buffalo Bills
McCoy was good but not great in his first season after winning the rushing title. Now, he will be taking handoffs in Buffalo rather than Philadelphia and must prove he can get back to that level of performance. Buffalo needs to show they have a QB who can take the pressure off the run game; otherwise, yards may be tough for McCoy. Let someone else draft McCoy, and once he gets settled in the scheme, look for a mid-season trade if you think he is going to hit his stride.
DeMarco Murray (RB), Philadelphia Eagles
Murray delivered a monster fantasy season last year and should be high atop most draft boards. The key will be staying healthy and learning to fit in a new scheme, because he left Dallas for Philadelphia. Dallas has an excellent offensive line, so it will be interesting to see if Murray can deliver another huge season. Philly has some great depth in the backfield and a versatile scheme, so don’t expect him to carry the full load again this season.
Owen Daniels (TE), Denver Broncos
Daniels had a good season in Baltimore last year and will now be tasked with filling in for TE Julius Thomas in Denver. Daniels is a legit option but must prove he can be explosive and stay healthy. Most of your league members will be eyeing him, so try to grab his teammate, Virgil Green, who could deliver big value. QB Peyton Manning makes any receiving option a potential fantasy stud, so take the player with the most upside.
LeGarrette Blount (HB), New England Patriots
Blount delivered big-time performances for the Patriots last season in some crucial games. Although he should be the option for the Patriots on running downs, nobody can be certain how many attempts that will deliver. New England is known for keeping a good rotation of backs and picked up some good pass catchers to fill in for Shane Vereen, who left during free agency and was a staple on third down. Blount is best when he is under the radar, so only grab him with the right expectations.