Here is a quick update on all the Fantasy Football Studs holding out or looking for a new contract this year!
Ezekiel Elliot: Holding the FUCK out
Zeke is in Cabo “training” on the beach while his teammates are at training camp without him. A cloud is starting to form over this Dallas team as everyone is being asked about the star RB and his demands. As of this writing, there has been some indication that Jerry Jones is willing to pay the man. But the teams personnel move of adding Alfred Morris to the backfield does not bode well for Zeke.
Fantasy Impact: In redraft, stay away until the 3rd round. In dynasty/keeper consider moving Elliot for picks.
Melvin Gordon: Close but no cigar
Gordon and the Chargers are a reported “2 to 3 million” apart. I am not buying that, but I do think this deal is closer to getting done than people think. It’s one of Phillip Rivers last years where he will be playing at an elite level, and they are as close as they ever have been to a Super Bowl contending team since Rivers was a youngster. If they’re close this early in camp, it should get done by mid preseason.
Fantasy Impact: Grab him in redraft leagues if you’re in the later end of the first round. Hold him in dynasty/keeper leagues.
Julio Jones: Dipping his feet in the holdout water
Arguably the best WR in football announced today that he will not play in any preseason games, and he will also not wait for fellow stud WR’s to sign extensions before he gets his. We have been hearing that Jones’ extension is coming for awhile now, but we haven’t seen it. And his withdrawing from pre season games, while smart on his behalf, is worrying for fantasy owners. This could be the start of a slippery slope that leads to the perennial pro bowler to being on Team Hold Out.
Fantasy Impact: Keep an eye on this situation. In redraft take Julio as projected, but in dynasty/keepers, don’t be afraid to move him for multiple pieces or picks.