Sunday Spotlight: Dynasty Players to Watch

Ken Kelly Posted On January 15, 2012

Fantasy seasons are over, but elite dynasty owners are always paying attention to events happening in the postseason and how they could change the landscape of their dynasty league instead of just mindlessly watching the games. Many players have great opportunities to carve a name out for themselves or solidify their positions on dynasty rosters.

Yesterday, we focused on one player from each team and highlighted the opportunities they had. Let’s rewind a bit and see how they did.

There was little doubt that Alex Smith was going to get a contract extension this offseason. After his incredible performance yesterday, there’s now NO doubt. Owners of Colin Kaepernick will have to wait.

Pierre Thomas had a chance to solidify a role as the lead back for the Saints next year during the playoffs. Unfortunately, he was knocked out on the first drive and couldn’t finish the game. It’s a tale too often told with Thomas and injuries. Mark Ingram’s owners can breathe a little easier.

Demaryius Thomas was solid again for the Broncos, even in a dreadful overall team performance. He’s climbing up the rankings and should be taken as a low-end WR2 with tremendous upside next year.

The Patriots reminded us yet again that they can’t be trusted with running backs. After seemingly taking grasp of the lead back role, Stevan Ridley had just four carries for 21 yards and was benched after losing a fumble. The Pats were led on the ground by Aaron Hernandez. That’s just not funny.

Let’s look at one player from each team who has a lot riding in regards to their dynasty values on Sunday.

Houston Texans

We know what Arian Foster, Ben Tate and Andre Johnson can do. Today’s game is all about TJ Yates. While he’s not really a threat to Matt Schaub’s job, Yates could really solidify himself as a solid quarterback prospect in dynasty leagues with a strong performance. The Ravens can certainly play defense and if Yates can avoid a faceplant, it would go a long way in his further development.

Baltimore Ravens

I have my eyes on Torrey Smith today. Smith has shown flashes of greatness, but also a tendency to disappear for long stretches in games. His long-term value is certainly tied to that of Joe Flacco, but it would be nice to see some solid performances from Smith this postseason to feel comfortable with him being a solid future WR2 on a dynasty team. It starts today.

Green Bay Packers

Where has Jermichael Finley gone? It’s amazing to reflect upon the explosiveness this offense displayed this season and realize that Finley wasn’t a big part of it for most of the season. It’s true that Aaron Rodgers distributes the ball, but nobody could have imagined that Finley would end up being the forgotten guy this season. Many dynasty league rankings had Finley as the top Tight End going into the season. He needs to show up big time to make his owners feel a little better about passing on the likes of Vernon Davis, Rob Gronkowski, Jimmy Graham, Aaron Hernandez, Antonio Gates or Jason Witten.

New York Giants

Victor Cruz was unstoppable this season. Hakeem Nicks was Eli Manning’s main weapon last week. Let’s see who gets the most targets today, shall we?

Enjoy the games today and remember to keep your dynasty eyes open!

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Ken Kelly

Co-Founder at DynastyLeagueFootball

Ken is a corporate trainer by day an a tireless editor of dynasty content by night. His passion for the World Champion Seattle Seahawks is second only to his love of fantasy football and the dynasty format.

Ken is on Twitter at DLF_KenK