FanProphet

Johnson Slips To Third In The West

Now that I have concluded my fantasy analysis of the AFC, I will rate the top players from each division then move into top players from the entire conference.  From there I will move forward by rating NFC teams and players.

Thus far the AFC West has been the easiest to rank because of the clear cut fantasy point producers from top to bottom.  However, with uncertainty and a group of young unproven QB’s, the verdict is still out on whether or not they have the ability to produce reliable fantasy production in a run oriented and defensive minded West division. 

I had a difficult time ranking a sleeper in this division due to the fact that there isn’t any unless one or two emerge from the San Diego or Kansas City wide-receiver positions.  In this case it doesn’t matter because you won’t select one until late in your draft in order to fill your roster, or through free-agency when they have already proven their value. 

Here is a list of top fantasy producers from the AFC West division. My rankings are based on each skill position player who is worthy of a fantasy draft selection along with the value of team defenses, kickers and where they rate in terms of fantasy production for the 2007 season. 

AFC WEST SKILL POSITION PLAYERS

1. (RB) LaDainian Tomlinson-This is the most obvious selection in all of fantasy football and a clear cut first overall selection in any league draft.  Some may try to make a case as to why Tomlinson should not be drafted #1.  Just ignore that bad advice and select the best player in the NFL. 

2. (RB) Travis Henry- Henry rated #2 in the West may cause controversy and question my credibility as some believe Henry is this years runningback buster.  However, the Broncos run the ball and they have proven to run the ball well.  Travis Henry is a fresh veteran and with his proven track record and new found identity on a winning franchise, look for Henry to have a career year and lead these Broncos in point production.  

3. (RB) Larry Johnson- Uncertainty!  After recent holdout talk Johnson goes from a top three overall pick, and now slipping to third in the West division.  Arguably the best runner in the league, but if Johnson remains unhappyÂwith his contract, look elsewhere for reliability.

4. (WR) Javon Walker- Walker could potentially become a top wide-out in the NFL and definitely the best receiver in the division. If the Broncos can successfully throw the ball downfield, Walker remains their only big play option. 

5. (QB) Philip Rivers- Options will continue to help Rivers develop into a great quarterback in this league.  Playing on the best team in the West, Rivers will have another productive season and lead all QB’s in this division. 

6. (QB) Jay Cutler

7. (TE) Antonio Gates

8. (TE) Tony Gonzalez

9. (QB) Brady Croyle

10(WR)Ronald Curry

11. (RB)Michael Turner

DEFENSE (Based on fantasy statistical value)

1. San Diego

2. Denver

3. Oakland

4. Kansas City

KICKERS

1. Nate Kaeding

2. Jason Elam

3. Lawrence Tynes

4. Sebastian Janikowski