Cut Doucet.
I am interested in picking up Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas, but I would have to drop one of the following from my roster. Should I cut Cardinals WR Early Doucet, Patriots RB Stevan Ridley, Lions RB Maurice Morris or 49ers WR Michael Crabtree?
Luis, Greeley
Cecil Lammey: Thomas could emerge as the Broncos’ big-play weapon if he can stay healthy. He has a rare blend of size and speed, giving him an advantage on deep routes and in the red zone. Tim Tebow is not afraid to air it out deep and give his receivers a chance to make a play downfield. I would advise all fantasy owners to make room for Thomas.
I would go ahead and cut Doucet. The Cardinals’ passing game hasn’t been consistently effective this year.
Graham for flex.
I’m having trouble picking my flex starter this week. Should I start Cowboys RB Demarco Murray, Buccaneers RB Earnest Graham or Redskins RB Ryan Torain? Also, what do you think new Rams WR Brandon Lloyd will do now that he’s reunited with Josh McDaniels?
Mike, Lakewood
Lammey: Your flex starter this week should be Graham. The Bucs and Bears are facing off in London as the NFL plays its annual game overseas. Graham is not a flashy player, but he is a willing and effective runner and receiver out of the backfield. The Bucs’ offense finally showed some life last week, and it should carry that momentum over to this week.
I like Graham the most because even if the game gets out of hand and the Bucs have to go into pass-happy mode, he’ll still be a factor. He’s the most versatile back, even when starter LeGarrette Blount is healthy.
As for Lloyd, I think it was a great move for the Rams. The passing game has been a letdown under McDaniels, the Rams’ new offensive coordinator. It hasn’t been because of the scheme, but more because the wide receivers are dropping too many passes. Second-year quarterback Sam Bradford has been making good decisions with the football, but guys like WR Greg Salas and TE Lance Kendricks have been letting him down. The injury to WR Danny Amendola also set this team back. The arrival of Lloyd will give the team a big-play weapon. It’s also worth noting that WR Mark Clayton is set to return from the physically unable to perform list.
Clayton and Bradford showed great chemistry last year. The Rams’ offense is about to turn around, and fantasy owners need to take note.
Stick with Battle.
Should I start Redskins RB Ryan Torain or Chiefs RB Jackie Battle this week? Also, who has the best upside for the rest of the year? Now that Minnesota is going with rookie QB Christian Ponder, what can we expect from him?
Jon, Fort Collins
Lammey: I like Battle this week and for the long-term plan. Battle is a big back who gets up to top speed in a hurry.
Ponder was considered the most “pro ready” of any of the QBs in this year’s draft class because of the pro-style system he ran at Florida State. He has a strong arm and can fit the ball into tight spaces. He is also a tough player who stands strong in the pocket while the rush is swirling around him. However, he’s nothing more than a QB3 in fantasy leagues.
