Michael Vick will never be compared with Joe Montana or Peyton Manning in real football. But he can be in the conversation with Marshall Faulk and LaDainian Tomlinson when we’re talking fantasy.
In 2006, Tomlinson set the standard for fantasy seasons by scoring 31 touchdowns and piling up 2,323 total yards. Thanks to Vick’s unique talents, he can top that.
Projecting numbers
Vick started 12 games last season. If we project those stats over 16 games, he would have thrown for 4,024 yards, ran for 901 and racked up 40 total touchdowns. That obliterates Tomlinson’s 2006 campaign.
A step ahead
Before last season, Vick hadn’t started a game since 2006. It’s very possible that he can get even more explosive and improve even more on his passing touch in 2011.
The injury question
The reckless running style that makes Vick so good in fantasy is also his biggest drawback. But injury-prone? Vick missed just two games over his final three seasons with the Falcons and the lack of a flak jacket caused last year’s injury. In the middle of the first round, Vick’s upside is worth the risk.
NFL news
No Moreno?
Coach John Fox said that running back will be the Broncos’ No. 1 priority in free agency. It’s surprising — yet obvious — that the team isn’t sold on Knowshon Moreno as a workhorse back. Downgrade Moreno across the board. MLB speed
Steals is an easy category to make up ground in. Add these guys cheaply:
1. Alex Presley, OF, PIT — Batting leadoff every day and sporting a .424 on-base percentage. Major prospect still has plenty of room to grow at age 25.
2. Cameron Maybin, OF, SD — Only 12 steals so far this year, but now fully healthy. Maybin will start running more.
3. Mike Trout, OF, LAA — Trout is worth holding while we see if he can hold off Peter Bourjos. Stole 56 bases in minors last year.
Top MLB pickups
Bobby Parnell, RP, Mets — With Francisco Rodriguez now a setup man in Milwaukee, Parnell is the favorite for saves in New York.
Cory Luebke, SP,?Padres
Luke Gregerson,
