Stampede Blue
Most fantasy drafts are right around the corner, and if you are like me, you probably want to be as informed as possible before making the decisions that will shape your mood in the upcoming 17 weeks. Contrary to popular opinion, Chat-GPT is nowhere close to being a reliable fantasy tool, so you all are forced to rely on us, the bloggers, to try and get an edge over your competition. I say this because I was running mock drafts and thought about trying AI out, with just the first prompt “Give me some advice for my half-PPR league, drafting from the #6 spot, what are your thoughts on Ashton Jeanty, Tyler Warren, and Xavier Worthy” — Chat told me that Jeanty was probably not getting many touches in a Jags’ offense featuring Travis Hunter, that Tyler Warren played for the Steelers, with quarterback Russell Wilson who likes to target tight ends, and that Xavier Worthy was a rookie. After that I got the idea to make this article, and I took a mental note never to trust AI fantasy football advice.
DO NOT DRAFT Anthony Richardson. Do not make the same mistake I did a year ago. You might be enticed by his rushing ability and potential. You might be thinking that this is finally the year where he puts it all together and becomes a viable fantasy starting quarterback, and that could very well be true, but the risk is just way too high. Not only do you have a concerning injury history, but even when he actually was available it was boom-or-bust. If you can get him in the final round, or as an UDFA as a low-risk high-reward stash in case he breaks out then go for it, but do not draft him thinking you found a gem and potential league winner, because you will be running the risk of being severely disappointed.
Taylor offers plenty of value as a bell-cow running back, with no #2 option eating into his snaps or taking away potential red-zone carries. He finished off last season scorching hot, and could be once again the focal point of the Colts’ offense. While the pass-catching upside is not there with Taylor, he still is a running back that can easily erupt for 20+ points, and he is still relatively young for the position. It also helps that the Colts have a really good offensive line in front of him. Keep in mind that last season’s numbers are skewed because of an impressive final three weeks, and that if the Colts’ passing attack once again falters then opposing defenses could easily stack the box against him, limiting his yards. Taylor is an excellent value pick in the late second, early third round.
An absolute must-draft if you are in a dynasty league, an intriguing option if not. Warren offers plenty of versatility on a position where there are not...
