Oakland Raiders 2011 record: 8-8; 3rd in the AFC West
A look at six pertinent areas fantasy owners must consider before drafting from the Oakland roster:Palmer Regaining Form?
Carson Palmer was one of the more exciting stories in both the fantasy world and the NFL last season. Thrust into the middle of the AFC West's divisional race, he proved he has plenty left in his 32 year old right arm. How much life? Enough to convince the Oakland Raiders to not seek an elite quarterback via the draft or free agency during the offseason (though they did sign Matt Leinart to back up Palmer). With ample time to absorb the Oakland offense, he could make for a solid second quarterback on fantasy squads.
Can the Wide Receivers Fulfill Potential ?
On paper, this receiving core looks solid. Darrius Heyward-Bey scored four touchdowns while nabbing 64 receptions for 975 yards. A former first round pick in 2009, he could be looking at his first 1,000 yard season. Meanwhile, there is Denarius Moore who averaged 18.7 yards per reception last reason and surprised everyone with his ability to escape coverage deep. He is a wild card but could be a steal late in drafts. Jacoby Ford will be a reliable third wide receiver with outside shot of being a useful bye week waiver pickup.
Can he stay healthy? That's the question surrounding the mega talented running back who emulates some of the best at the position when he is on the field. He has missed 19 games in his four professional seasons. McFadden averaged 87.7 rushing yards per game last year which was fourth best in the NFL. It's a significant feat considering the game he was injured he only carried the ball twice. Injuries ended his year after seven games.
Tight End Wanted
Kevin Boss is out as tight end in Oakland. So who is in? Odds are fourth year player Brandon Myers will receive a majority of the starts. Is Jeremy Shockey still available? This is a horrible place for owners to search for help at the position.
Can the Defense Step Up?
They surrendered 433 points last season (only the Buffalo Bills were worse in the conference allowing 434). With a lack of picks in the 2012 NFL Draft (their first pick was the 95th selection), it looks to be a long year on defense. Weekly drubbings could be in store for this group and the red flags should not be ignored by fantasy owners.
Health
If McFadden can stay healthy, this is an intriguing team offensively. But there is little depth on the Raiders at key fantasy positions and they need all hands on deck. Any injury to Carson Palmer, Heyward-Bey, or Moore would be absolute disaster. There is little handcuffing can accomplish on this team for fantasy owners.
Summary:
Where do owners select Darren McFadden? The answer to that question could lead to a fantasy crown. Guess wrong and it could ruin a season. For risk takers, he is a must-have running back but for the weak of heart he should be avoided. Palmer, Heyward-Bey, and Moore should all be considered number two at their positions on fantasy teams. Neither the Oakland defense or it's tight ends are worth a pick.
Sources: Yahoo! Sports
Robert Watkins is former investment professional and partner. A native New Yorker until 9/11, he considers Pa. his adoptive home. A passionate Giants fan, fantasy football fanatic, and Pennsylvania sports enthusiast, Robert is a frequent contributor to Yahoo! Sports and News.
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