Tremendous Depth in the West
July 13th, 2007 | by aaron |Now that I have concluded my fantasy analysis of the NFC, I will rate the top players from each division then move into top players from the entire conference.
The amount of depth throughout this division is absolutely phenomenal. Give me four players from this division along with any random players and I will play the entire NFL each week. Considering there isn’t a single defensive juggernaut within the division each team is capable of fielding on average 3 fantasy starters on a weekly basis. From top to bottom this division offers on average the leagues best RB’s, a plethora of #1 WR’s, and a group of QB’s who could possibly find their way into your starting lineup. But, who’s first? It was only a year ago when Shaun Alexander was a top fantasy selection, Frank Gore was a nobody, Steven Jackson was making a name for himself, and Edgerrin James had to find a new identity with his new team in Arizona.
Here is a list of top fantasy producers from the NFC 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.
1. (RB) Steven Jackson: The best player on the best offense in the division. After posting almost 2300 yards last season, Jackson vows to break the 2500 yard mark this season. We could very easily see Jackson take Tomlinson’s title as top fantasy producer for the 2007 season.
2. (RB) Frank Gore: Over five yards per carry on a team who’s only won 11 out of their last 32 games is an incredible statistic. With his explosive running style Gore surprised many last season rushing for 1700 yards. Did I mention he also had 61 receptions and a combined total of 2180 yards in only his 2nd season?
3. (RB) Shaun Alexander: This is arguable considering Alexander is coming off a foot injury. This goes to show us how quickly things can change in the NFL. I’m not willing to write him off, but Alexander’s stock has dropped tremendously this season.
4. (RB) Edgerrin James: We all knew what James could do in Indy. However, changing teams in the NFL is extremely difficult. With an improved offensive line and an improved 2nd year QB look for James to re-emerge as a top runner in this league.
5. (WR) Torry Holt: “Big Game Holt” He’s going to catch at least 10 TD’s, gain 1200-1400 yards, and add tremendous value to any fantasy roster. A prolific player on a prolific offense.
6. Larry Fitzgerald
7. Marc Bulger
8. Anquan Boldin
9. Deion Branch
10. Darrell Jackson
11. Matt Leinart
12. Matt Hasselbeck
DEFENSE:
1. Seattle Seahawks
2. S.F 49ers
3. St. Louis Rams
4. Arizona Cardinals
KICKERS:
1. Jeff Wilkins
2. Joe Nedney
3. Neil Rackers
4. Josh Brown
