DLF’s Weekly Impact Events

Ryan McDowell Posted On March 28, 2014

terrelle_pryor

The 2014 off-season is now fully underway with free agency upon us. As you prepare for next season, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of the news. You have to pay close attention to everything 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!

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

Terrelle Pryor, QB OAK

The Oakland Raiders are rumored to be shopping former starting quarterback Terrelle Pryor, though are likely to release him if no deal is worked out. It was already clear the team did not view Pryor as a possible starting option heading into 2014 and after they acquired Matt Schaub from the Houston Texans for a late round pick, that sealed the deal. Schaub is the starter in Oakland, while Pryor will be out of town, one way or another. Pryor has no real dynasty value, but has some upside if landing in the right spot.

Ray Rice, RB BAL

We’ve finally learned more about the domestic violence issue Ravens running back Ray Rice was involved with several weeks ago. This week, Rice was charged with one count of aggravated assault, which carries a penalty of up to five years in prison. Considering he’s never been in trouble with the law, Rice is unlikely to see any prison time, but he will almost certainly be forced to sit out some early season action. Combining this incident along with his poor play from a season ago and Rice’s value is fading fast.

Knowshon Moreno, RB MIA

Running back Knowshon Moreno, who was one of the last viable free agents available, agreed to a one-year deal with the Miami Dolphins. Both Miami backs disappointed in 2013 and Moreno is the presumed starter over Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas. In fact, Thomas might not make the team. Moreno goes from one of the best situations possible for a running back to one of the worst, as he’ll be running behind an offensive line that needs almost a complete rebuild. Moreno’s value obviously takes a hit, as does Miller’s. Meanwhile, Montee Ball is left with the starting gig in Denver and his value is through the roof.

Mark Sanchez, QB PHI

Former Jets starting quarterback and first round draft pick Mark Sanchez was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles to backup Nick Foles. Sanchez’ struggles have been well documented, so a fresh start with a new team is just what he needed. There’s little reason to expect much more than what we saw with the Jets, though. If Foles were to get hurt, the Eagles season would be severely affected. Sanchez is not worth a pickup, even in the deepest leagues.

Shaun Hill, QB STL

The St. Louis Rams signed Shaun Hill as their backup quarterback. It’s an interesting move as Sam Bradford has had multiple seasons cut short by injury and Hill has had some effective seasons taking over the starting role following an injury. In very deep leagues, or possible 2QB leagues, Hill could be worth a roster spot, especially for Bradford owners.

Mike Wallace, WR MIA

The Miami Dolphins are reportedly attempting to trade wide receiver Mike Wallace, just one season into the long-term deal they signed him to prior to the 2013 season. Wallace was just one of the disappointing parts of the Miami offense last year and the team seems ready to move on already. Considering he’s signed to a pricey long-term deal, it’s difficult to imagine they get much interest. His dynasty value is way down, but he could be a good buy low player this off-season.

David Wilson, RB NYG

This week, New York Giants Head Coach Tom Coughlin said injured running back David Wilson might have to return in another capacity. Of course, this is due not only to the uncertainty surrounding Wilson and his recovery from the serious neck injury he suffered last year, but also with the recent signing of Rashad Jennings, who is the likely starter in 2014. Wilson’s dynasty value continues to take hits, and he can only be considered a flier at this point.

Alfred Morris, RB WAS

When new head coach Jay Gruden arrived in Washington, many expected the team to use running back Alfred Morris more as a receiver in the coming year. Gruden downplayed that idea this week, saying he does not think Morris possesses “natural hands,” also adding he expects Morris to catch between 20 and 25 balls this year. That reception total would still basically double his output from the first two seasons of his career, but it would not be enough to add to his sagging value in PPR leagues.

Michael Vick, QB NYJ

The New York Jets signed free agent quarterback Michael Vick to a one-year contract. It’s unclear if the team views Vick as their starter in 2014, but regardless, it’s a sure sign they are not fully confident in last year’s rookie starter, Geno Smith. As he has for the past couple of years, Vick has high upside, short-term value. He can still post QB1 numbers, but must stay healthy and avoid making so many turnovers. Smith, on the other hand, was dealt a raw deal, with no real quality pass catchers and thrown into the fire as a rookie. He’ s a great buy low candidate.

Mike Williams, WR TB

Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Williams suffered a stab wound to his leg following an altercation with his brother. Williams’ injury was considered minor and he was released from the hospital later the same night. Though he was not at fault in this situation, it only adds to the trouble he’s dealt with this off-season. There’s a chance he won’t be back with the Buccaneers in 2014.

Jermichael Finley, TE FA

Free agent tight end Jermichael Finley reportedly failed the physical he took during his visit with the Seattle Seahawks. It makes sense considering Finley left town without a contract, despite rumored interest from Seattle. Later, a report leaked saying Finley could be at least two months from signing, due to his extended rehabilitation from last season’s spinal injury. Unfortunately, Finley has no dynasty value and it’s uncertain if he ever plays again.

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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.