There has been a common trend around the University of Kentucky football program as more and more players head to the NFL.
Another fascinating trend that surrounds the NFL and the start of the regular season is Fantasy Football, a concept created decades ago, but one that has flourished during the 21st century.
As more Kentucky football players head to the NFL the question becomes, how many players are worth investing in for your 2010 NFL Fantasy draft. Here’s a short answer to that question and it is not many. Here at the WBN, we’ll give you a short run down of which former Wildcats star will give you the most bang-for-your-buck. Let’s take a look:
Denver Broncos (Defense): The Broncos pop up as a possible selection for your primary defense. With three former Wildcats currently on the roster—Braxton Kelly, Wesley Woodyard, and Johnny Williams—Denver has a chance to be one of the surprise defensive teams during your 2010 NFL Fantasy Draft. The team was solid on defense overall, giving up 20.3 points a game while giving up just 315.0 yards per game, good for 7th in the NFL. The Broncos pass defense was porous, but another year under head coach Josh McDaniels should clear up any confusion.
If you’re in a league where individual defensive players are selected, Woodyard would be your safest bet for any of the former defensive Wildcats in the NFL. Woodyard will play behind left inside linebacker D.J. Williams who racked up a whopping 122 tackles and three fumbles. Woodyard isn’t anywhere close to Williams production, with only 44 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception. There’s a chance for more playing time if injuries occur, but for now Woodyard has to deal with less action on the field at this point in his career.
Keenan Burton (WR/St. Louis Rams): Burton suffered an ugly season ending knee injury during a Week 8 victory over the Detroit Lions last season, but has shown flashes of improvement during the Rams preseason workouts. Burton got a chance to become a primary receiver when a slew of injuries ravaged the Rams wide receiving group, leaving the former ‘Cats star with the opportunity to showcase his skills. With just 25 receptions for 253 yards Burton didn’t dazzle, but displayed the ability to secure the ball and YAC (yards-after-catch).
Burton has a chance to become a primary receiver yet again, as Donnie Avery looks to have secured one spot already. The second spot is up for grabs, with heavy competition from Laurent Robinson. If Burton remains healthy he could possibly be good for 4-5 points a game, touchdowns obviously increasing the total.
Overall, there isn’t much to rave about in regards to our former Wildcats taking part in the Fantasy Football world. The big players are obvious: Chris Johnson (Tennessee Titans), Drew Brees (New Orleans Saints), Adrian Peterson (Minnesota Vikings). Stray too far from the superstars of the league and your $100 to partake in a fantasy league will go straight out the window.
Honorable Mention: John Conner (FB/New York Jets), Alfonso Smith (RB/Arizona Cardinals), Steve Johnson (WR/Buffalo Bills)
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