Andrew Luck is considered a cant-miss prospect that has zero flaws. It doesn’t mean he’ll be a serviceable fantasy quarterback in Year One.
Right now, Luck’s starting receivers are a rapidly declining Reggie Wayne, Donnie Avery and Austin Collie. His tight end is Brody Eldridge. His running back is Donald Brown. There’s just not enough weapons here for Luck to have upside. Down the line, however, Luck projects as a QB1.
Here are the top-5 2012 fantasy prospects drafted on Thursday night:
1. Trent Richardson, RB, Browns: You only have to watch tape for a game or two to see that Richardson is almost always the best player on the field. He has a ridiculous size/speed combo and figures to push for 300 touches as a rookie. The only concern is that he has to face the rugged defenses of the Ravens and Steelers four times.
2. Robert Griffin III, QB, Redskins: Griffin’s fantasy prospects are much better than Luck’s for three reasons: 1. He has unique athleticism and will give owners plenty of points with his legs. 2. The Redskins actually have solid skill players in Fred Davis, Roy Helu, Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan. 3. Mike Shanahan hasn’t proven it lately, but he previously got the best out of offenses.
3. Doug Martin, RB, Bucs: Just because Martin went to Boise doesn’t mean he’s not a player. He’s drawn comparisons to Ray Rice and should excel in the passing game right away. If you’ve read this blog before, you know that I don’t think very much of LeGarrette Blount.
4. Michael Floyd, WR, Cardinals: Larry Fitzgerald has been starving for some help opposite him ever since Anquan Boldin left. Floyd is a physical beast that’s ready to rock at the NFL level right away. He’ll see plenty of single coverage.
5. David Wilson, RB, Giants: Ahmad Bradshaw will remain the lead back, but that’s always a scary proposition. Bradshaw has chronic ankle issues and the Giants have been known to use a two-back system. Remember that Brandon Jacobs is now on the 49ers.
