2015 NFL Rookie Predictions: Green-Beckham is Josh Gordon revisited, hopefully sans baggage
Poked, prodded, pricked — pro prospects have been thoroughly examined by franchises leading up to this month’s NFL Draft. However, fantasy owners are just now dissecting their Year 1 potential. Over the next several weeks, we’ll attempt to channel our inner Mayock determining whether Rookie X will be fantasy flame or lame material this fall. Wednesday’s profile: Missouri/Oklahoma wide receiver Dorial Green-Beckham.
College Highlights: Played only sparingly due to off-the-field problems and incurred suspensions. In 25 games with the Tigers he totaled 87 receptions for 1,278 yards and 17 touchdowns. His 12 receiving scores in 2013 led the SEC. He tallied three 100-yard and three multi-TD games in 14 contests two seasons ago. Was widely considered the No. 1 overall prospect out of high school earning National Player of the Year honors. Recruiting guru Tom Lemming tabbed him the best WR prospect since Randy Moss. Accomplished sprinter and long jumper.
Pluses: Standing at 6-foot-5, 237-pounds and equipped with 4.49 40-yard wheels, DGB is a physical marvel. His long strides and sheer length allow him to beat defenders without breaking a sweat. Soft hands. Fantastic catch radius and body control. If paired with an accurate QB, could wreck havoc on back-shoulder throws. Dynamite field-stretcher. His adjustment skills and ladder-climbing abilities are Mike Evans-like. Given his imposing size he typically plays chuck-and-pluck with passers. Could develop into one of the deadliest downfield/red-zone weapons in the game.
Minuses: Green-Beckham won’t win Walter Payton Awards. Arrested twice for marijuana possession and allegedly involved in burglary/domestic violence incidents. Disturbing. Considered ‘lazy’ and ‘disinterested’ by some. If he’s unwilling to build sweat equity, will be out of the league in short order given bad attitude reputation. Unpolished route runner. Missed the entire 2014 season due to suspension. Despite rigid frame, doesn’t use strength to his advantage. Struggles at times beating press coverage.
Pro Comp(s): Alshon Jeffery, Kelvin Benjamin, Josh Gordon, Mike Evans
Team Fits: Kansas City, Chicago, San Francisco, New England, New Orleans, St. Louis, Tennessee, Houston, Cincinnati
Projected ADP/Auction Value ($200 cap): 175-185 (WR58)/$2-$5
Fearless Forecast: DGB is the new Gordon, an extremely talented, yet troubled, youngster with All-Pro appeal. If he can dislodge head-from-posterior and stay on the straight and narrow, he has starter-worthy fantasy potential. However, due to his missed time and shortcomings at the line of scrimmage, his 2015 impact would likely occur over the second half of the regular season. Hopefully, he’ll find a nourishing environment that can provide the structure and guidance needed to unlock his potential. No question the wideout is an enormous gamble, but in deeper leagues he’s a player to stash. Come fantasy playoff time it would be no surprise if he proves to be a difference maker.
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