Last week the BBN covered the expectations of the former Kentucky Wildcats who are currently slated to play in the NFC. Some of those players—Tim Masthay, Trevard Lindley, and Keenan Burton—are expected to vie for roster spots and have the opportunity to make some noise on their respective teams. That idea may be no more apparent than for several former Wildcats players who are in the AFC. Here’s a look at what you can expect from the AFC ‘Cats.
John Conner (FB/New York Jets):
Dubbed as the ‘Terminator’ by those around him, Conner’s position within the Jets organization is probably the most promising of any former Kentucky Wildcats star. The fullback position is an important one for the Jets as a team and the team decided to spend its third-round pick on the rookie from Kentucky. Conner’s position with the team may become even more valuable if veteran Tony Richardson isn’t there to take minutes from the rookie.
Richardson’s presence during training camp has been a strong one for Conner with him saying,
Richardson, a veteran with strong credentials in the locker room, helped mentor rookie fullback John Conner throughout training camp knowing that Conner would someday seize his position. That situation played out sooner rather than later.
“I learned a lot from him in a short time,” Conner said. Expectations: Lots of BIG hits, 1-2 TD’s
Micah Johnson (LB/ Miami Dolphins):
Johnson’s NFL fate was decided recently by the Miami Dolphins, who intend to bring the rookie linebacker on the team for the beginning of the season. Johnson did have a tackle on special teams during the Dolphins final pre-season game against the Dallas Cowboys. Johnson currently sits behind Karlos Dansby at right inside linebacker and could potentially see some time on the field should Dansby or any other Dolphins linebacker get injured. Expectations: 21 TKLS, 1 SACK, 1 INT
Steve Johnson (WR/Buffalo Bills):
The ‘other’ Johnson—Stevie—could make some noise this season during his time with the Bills. He’s a third year guy, so he’s got some NFL experience under his belt. The fact that the Bills wide receiver core is in flux makes the opportunity to flourish this year even more reasonable. With Terrell Owens long gone, Johnson moves to the No. 2 receiver behind Lee Evans.
If you’re looking for a deep-sleeper pick in your fantasy draft, Johnson could be a viable option at the wide receiver position. If you remember his time in Lexington, you’ll realize Johnson’s potential as a starter never shined through until his junior and senior seasons. As a third year guy, this could be the time for Johnson to break through with the Bills. Expectations: 45 REC, 500 YDS, 3 TD’s
Braxton Kelley (LB/Denver Broncos):
Kelley’s time with the Broncos hasn’t provided the type of excitement like that of former Kentucky teammate Wesley Woodyard. Kelley spent much of his time last season on the Broncos practice squad and should find himself in that position yet again. He, along with Woodyard and former teammate Johnny Williams created a spectacular linebacker core at Kentucky, but Williams was recently cut from the Broncos.
Myron Pryor (DT/New England Patriots):
Pryor is another interesting name of the former Kentucky Wildcats stars and has the opportunity to make a name for himself in New England. Playing behind starting nose tackle Vince Wilfork has given Pryor the chance to work with one of the best in the business. Pryor will also line up behind Gerrad Warren at left defensive end, making the Patriots vaunted 3-4 defense that much stronger.
Pryor got plenty of playing time last season, racking up 20 tackles and 1 forced fumble. If more playing time comes his way this season, expect the numbers to keep on rising. Expectations: 33 TKLS, 1 FF, 3 SACKS
Jacob Tamme (TE/Indianapolis Colts):
Tamme has struggled to find his niche in the Colts pass-happy offense. He’s been able to find time on special teams and racked up several tackles last season, but it’s the offense that the Big Blue Nation wants to see from the third year tight end. Tamme was able to rack up some offensive numbers however, going for three receptions for 35 yards and no touchdowns. With such a high-powered offense it could be difficult for Tamme to find any production this season.
One plus about Tamme is his versatility. Tamme not only plays on special teams, but is listed as the third-string tight end as well as the third-string fullback. Add second string holder and long-snapper to that and you’ve got yourself one heck of a player. Hopefully Tamme can grab his first NFL touchdown. Expectations: 10-15 REC, 80 YDS, 1 TD
Wesley Woodyard (LB/Denver Broncos)
Woodyard, like Tamme, is known for his versatility on the Broncos defense. He’s played multiple linebacker positions in Denver’s 3-4 defense and is expected to help strengthen the team’s defensive unit once more. Despite 44 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception, it’s still difficult for Woodyard to find a consistent groove when you’re playing behind a Pro-Bowl caliber player in D.J. Williams.
Woodyard is a solid player however, and will find his time on the field when injuries occur or other guys are simply tired. His work ethic is tremendous giving him a great chance to step ahead of Joe Mays for a starting spot at right inside linebacker. If that happens, watch out, because Woodyard could rack up a lot of tackles. Expectations: 55 TKLS, 1 FF, 2 INT
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