Free Agent Friday kicks off with my favorite unappreciated QB, Ryan
Tannehill (available in 80% of ESPN leagues)—a guy I publicly predicted would
have a big year after producing low-end QB1 numbers in 2013 and 2014. Instead, he’s 21st in QB fantasy
scoring with little chance of creeping into the top 16. But that doesn’t mean he’s worthless. His Sunday opponent, the 49ers, have yielded
the NFL’s second most passing TDs (23) while also giving up—by far—the most
yards per carry (5.2 vs. the next worst team at 4.6). This is Miami’s last chance to rack up big
points this fantasy season, making Tannehill worth a flyer.
Josh McCown is available in 99% of ESPN leagues and faces a middling
Giants pass defense at home. While New
York is stingy in the TD reception department, with Isaiah Crowell struggling
and Duke Johnson not getting sufficient attention, I see McCown throwing a lot,
which will help him achieve fantasy legitimacy.
I’ve mentioned Wendell Smallwood (available in 61% of ESPN leagues)
many times this season. He’s the most
talented RB in Philly and could see plenty of run Monday night. He’s underbought in fantasy leagues; grab him
if you need an RB2 or flex in case Ryan Mathews sits.
Terrance West is essentially splitting snaps with Kenneth Dixon (76%
unowned). Both have run well. Dixon is far more likely to be available in
your league, making him an easy grab as a short-term RB3/4 with a lot of upside
if West gets hurt or falters.
Marqise Lee is the 51st highest scoring fantasy WR and has
asserted himself as one of Blake Bortles’ top two targets. Yet he’s still available in 94% of
leagues. What are you waiting for?
The same goes for Will Tye. I
pushed him and Lee last weekend and will continue to until their perceived
value matches their actual value. Tye’s
remaining schedule is terrific; he’ll be a top 14 TE the rest of the season.