DLF’s Weekly Impact Events

Ryan McDowell Posted On November 2, 2012

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The 2012 National Football League season is in full swing. You have to pay close attention to everything in order to stay on top of your dynasty league. For most of us, we do well to steal some time away from our families and jobs to watch the games on Sunday. It becomes difficult to monitor the daily happenings around the league and even more demanding to process how that news affects your dynasty team.

That’s why we’re here!

Each week there are many news items that are important and helpful in the day-to-day managing of your fantasy team, yet have little affect on the dynasty value of players. Because of this, I will not be mentioning those here.

Here is a quick look at the events of the past week and how they impact the players on your team:

Daryl Richardson, RB STL

Rams rookie running back Daryl Richardson continued his strong play in week eight as he gained 53 rushing yards on only seven carries. Rumors all week were that the Rams would entertain trade offers for veteran starting running back Steven Jackson, and while they did not trade him by the Thursday deadline, it is clear that the team is ready to move on from him. The chance to buy Richardson has passed unless you are willing to give up a future first round pick or more.

Vincent Brown, WR SD

After Chargers wide receiver Vincent Brown broke his ankle in a preseason game, many fantasy owners quickly targeted the mid-season point as a possible return date for the high upside youngster. This week, it was reported that Brown could miss another month of the season. Brown was eligible to return in week eight against the Browns, but he has yet to begin practicing. Brown’s dynasty value has been stagnant since it took a hit after the injury, so while this does not hurt his value much, it does give owners one more chance to buy low before he returns to action. It’s looking more and more like 2012 could be a lost season for the second year wideout.

Javon Ringer, RB TEN

The Titans placed running back Javon Ringer on the injured reserve list after he tore his MCL. The injury ends Ringer’s season and likely his career in Tennessee since he is a free agent at the conclusion of the season. Backup running back Jamie Harper has given the Titans solid play and Ringer is now a safe drop in all dynasty leagues.

Cecil Shorts, WR JAX

Jacksonville wide receiver Cecil Shorts posted another strong effort in week eight, collecting eight passes for 116 yards, giving him twelve receptions for nearly 200 yards the past two weeks. With the Jaguars top wide receivers Laurent Robinson and rookie Justin Blackmon both struggling due to injuries and inconsistencies, Shorts has taken advantage with his big play ability. Shorts has gained quarterback Blaine Gabbert’s trust and his value is on the rise as he’s now been named the starter over Robinson.

Jake Locker, QB TEN

The Tennessee Titans are still unsure about when starting quarterback Jake Locker will return from his shoulder injury. With veteran Matt Hasselbeck 2-2 as the team’s starter and considering the AFC is wide open, the Titans could stick with the veteran for an extended period and give Locker extra time to recover. Locker’s injury and the early season struggles are a concern for dynasty owners and his value has taken a hit while other young quarterbacks have excelled.

Mike Thomas, WR DET

The Detroit Lions acquired wide receiver Mike Thomas from the Jacksonville Jaguars for a mid-round draft pick. Thomas was once a much hyped player and the top wideout for the Jaguars. Since head coach Mike Mularkey took over, Thomas has been in the doghouse and unable to earn playing time, even though the Jaguars have lacked playmaking wide receivers. Thomas gives the Lions depth they needed with wide receiver Nate Burleson out for the season. Likely slotted behind Calvin Johnson, Titus Young and Ryan Broyles, Thomas is not worth a roster spot in dynasty leagues.

Dwayne Allen, TE IND

With rookie tight end Coby Fleener scheduled to be out of action for up to three weeks due to a shoulder injury, fellow rookie Dwayne Allen is expected to see an uptick in snaps and targets. So far this season, Allen has 17 catches for 174 yards, while Fleener has outpaced him with 21 grabs for 222 yards. This is Allen’s chance to carve out more playing time. He has been overlooked in dynasty leagues, and has even been dropped in some leagues I follow, but this expanded role should help increase his dynasty value.

Check back next week for another update on the week’s impact events! Follow Ryan McDowell on Twitter @RyanMc23.

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Ryan McDowell

Contributor at Dynasty League Football

In addition to his senior leadership role here at DLF, Ryan is also a husband, father of three and PE teacher. Ryan is the commissioner of multiple dynasty leagues, most notably the Kitchen Sink Dynasty Leagues. Here at DLF, Ryan’s focus is on identifying, monitoring and analyzing player value.