The young Dolphins took a step back last year, finishing with seven wins after making the playoffs in 2008. The combination of injuries, lack of premier talent and significant youth at the skill positions hurt their offense immensely.
This year brings a new sense of hope for dynasty league fantasy owners as the acquisition of Brandon Marshall finally fills their need for a true No. 1 wide receiver. The addition of Marshall will finally give us some clarity on the true value of not only Chad Henne, but some of the other offensive players as well. After all, his talent should keep defenses honest.
While the Dolphins addressed one need on offense, there are still lots of questions to be answered from a dynasty fantasy football perspective. Let’s find out who may be a keeper and who to cut bait on in the latest edition of the dynasty capsule.
Player in their Prime
Brandon Marshall WR
With Marshall, you take the good with the bad. On one hand, he’s had at least 100 catches in three consecutive seasons, featuring a record 21 in one game last season for the Broncos. For the year, he finished with 101 catches, 1,120 yards and 10 touchdowns. Those numbers are more than worthy of a No. 1 wide receiver in fantasy or reality.
On the other hand, he’s constantly in the news for the wrong reasons. We’ve seen it all, including a freak accident involving a McDonald’s bag to the exaggeration of a hamstring injury. When he’s happy, he’s great. When he’s not, look out. Combine his past with his ongoing hip issues, and he may just be the ultimate risk/reward player in dynasty leagues. He’s no doubt a top talent worthy of a second round pick in startups.
Rising Players
Chad Henne QB
This former Wolverine must have done cartwheels when Marshall was acquired. After replacing Chad Pennington last season, Henne posted a very respectable 2,878 yards, and twelve touchdowns. He actually produced as a top-15 fantasy quarterback over the last month of the season as well. With an entire offseason to build rapport with Marshall and get even more comfortable with the offense, he’s a popular pick to be a No. 2 fantasy quarterback with good upside. It’s hard to argue against looking to acquire him in dynasty leagues right now as the stars seem to be aligned for his success. He has the ability to eventually become a fantasy league starter.
Brian Hartline WR
He’ll be competing with Greg Camarillo to be the starter opposite Marshall this season. After leading the Dolphins with 16.3 yards per catch last season, he seems to have the edge. His battle with Camarillo is one to watch as the Dolphins No. 2 wide receiver should have good short and long-term dynasty value.
Players with Falling Values
Davone Bess WR
Bess led the Dolphins with 758 receiving yards last year, but he stands to be the big loser in the Marshall trade. As a receiver best suited for slot, he’ll likely catch around 60 passes, but his touchdown and big play opportunities should take a big hit.
Greg Camarillo WR
I wouldn’t rule him out in his battle with Brian Hartline for the starting job opposite Marshall, but he doesn’t seem to have the edge right now. Whoever loses that position battle will be waiver wire fodder at best in dynasty leagues.
Anthony Fasano TE
Fasano was a hot pickup last year as many dynasty league owners envisioned him becoming a top-tier tight end. His disappointing season of 339 yards and two touchdowns can’t leave the Dolphins with a ton of confidence in him right now. He’s back for one more season, but needs a big year to resurface on dynasty radars.
Ronnie Brown RB
With Brown, you just wonder what could have been. He’s been one of the most explosive dynasty league commodities the past few years, but also one of the biggest disappointments.
After suffering a lisfranc fracture last season, Brown’s dynasty value is in a full nose dive. Combine the presence of Ricky Williams, the fact he’ll be 29 in December and his obvious durability issues and you have a major sell candidate if you’re not a competing team this year in dynasty leagues. While you certainly won’t get equal return talent-wise, you may not have another window to get anything at all back. You can hold on to him if you’re competing this season, I just wouldn’t be counting on him to lead me to the promised land.
Ricky Williams RB
Ricky is one of the toughest players to place value on in dynasty leagues. He helped many dynasty league owners last season when he replaced the injured Brown and posted 1,121 yards and 11 touchdowns. While those numbers seem to be an unrealistic expectation, we’ve also learned not to doubt the ability of Ricky in the past. Regardless, his value is declining since he’s most definitely in the twilight of his enigmatic career.
Sleeper
Lex Hilliard RB
While he still needs to hold off Kory Sheets and beat out Patrick Cobbs, there’s no doubt that Hilliard does have some ability. With the durability and future of the Miami running back position in question, there’s a chance he sees some time and takes advantage of an opportunity.
Super Sleepers
Kory Sheets RB
This former 49er is in a battle to make the roster again this season, but he’s always seemed to be one lucky break away from making an impact. He’s a very deep sleeper, but someone to keep tabs on into the preseason.
Summary
The Dolphins have assembled a team of youthful players who are set to prove their worth in dynasty leagues. While Brandon Marshall certainly helps the value of Chad Henne, there are many other players to keep an eye on this offseason as well. Assuming Marshall is the only worthwhile player from Miami could be limiting your dynasty league team’s potential and leave you swimming with the fishes.
Ken is on Twitter at DLF_KenK
