Just like the casual football fan, fantasy football owners can be broken down into two categories: the average and the hardcore. The average owner will join leagues that operate under the basic draft format year in and out. However, for the hardcore owner, they need a little more to knock the edge off their obsession.
In comes both in the dynasty league format and the keeper league format.
In a dynasty style league, it’s all about the feel of being a general manager. Unlike traditional leagues, dynasty leagues grant the owner the ability to keep the majority of their roster year in and out, thus making any success both more hard fought and more rewarding as decisions have to be made more long term.
To a lesser degree, keeper leagues offer the same type of thrill. The only real difference between the two is that in a keeper league, you keep less players on average.
Whichever of the two is your fancy, one thing is for certain; you have to keep a good eye on the young talent entering the league. To that end, here are the top ten dynasty/keeper choices heading into training camps.
As always, this list is based solely of expectations had at this time and is subject to change once training camps and the preseason rolls around.
Call the preacher and grab the rings, we got a keeper!
The best prospects out of the new class.
1. Montee Ball, RB, Denver Broncos
When you are looking for the top choices not only for this season, but for down the road, it’s best to look at both talent and situation. For Ball, landing in Denver with Peyton Manning is the best place he could have ever gone. A talented back who can do it all, Ball will get every opportunity to touch the ball early and often.
2. Le’Veon Bell, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Early word out of Pittsburgh is that Bell has impressed in workouts and could be the opening day starter. With the Steelers not having any starting quality backs on the roster at this point, this creates the perfect opportunity for Bell to come in early and plant himself in the starting lineup for years to come.
3. Tavon Austin, WR, St. Louis Rams
Regarded as the most talented skill position player in the draft, Austin brings the potential to do big things in the coming years. With the Rams slowly turning it around as an organization, a player as naturally skilled as Austin is a must have for any owner, especially if your league grants points per reception.
Well, she isn’t Rihanna…but who is!?
While not the favorites, these guys have the talent to excel.
4. Giovani Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
The surprise first running back off the board draft day, Bernard is currently entrenched as a third down back behind Benjarvus Green-Ellis. However, his long term value is what sells him as he is a prototypical dual threat back that thrives in today’s league.
5. DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Houston Texans
If you are looking for a receiver who is assuredly going to start and not have to worry about double teams then Hopkins is your guy. Playing on the opposite side of the ball from Andre Johnson in a good offensive system. Hopkins will get plenty of chances to rack up the stats.
6. Eddie Lacy, RB Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay packers drafted two running backs this year in the hopes of maximizing the potential of their main offensive weakness. While both Lacy and their other choice, Johnathan Franklin, have the potential to both be good long term, Lacy holds the current edge. A squat power back, Lacy has the ability to be a three down back who averages 20-25 touches a game. That is, if he can stay healthy.
Afraid to commit, but still in love!
If the stars align, these guys could shine.
7. Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Patterson brings to Minnesota everything you would want in a potential number one receiver. A great leaper that has size (6’2”) and weight (216 lbs), Patterson has all the physical gifts to excel in the NFL. The only knock on him is whether or not he can fully utilize these gifts.
8. E.J. Manuel, QB, Buffalo Bills
While arguably not the best quarterback drafted this year, Manuel comes into the league with an ideal situation in Buffalo. Being the long term choice of a new coaching staff, Manuel will get the best chance out of this rookie crop of QBs to develop.
There’s always more fish in the sea!
It’s all about potential and possibility for these players.
9. Markus Wheaton, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
With the loss of Mike Wallace, the Steelers’ only deep threat is Antonio Brown; you can expect defenses to always have a plan in place to limit that part of his game. This is where Wheaton can make the most impact for Pittsburgh. Though basically a Brown clone in size and speed, Wheaton will deliver deep potential without all the extra scrutiny and coverage.
10. Geno Smith, QB, New York Jets
Playing under the scrutiny of the New York media is no picnic; just ask Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. But when you get it right, it’s like Christmas and your birthday all rolled into one. With Geno Smith, the Jets have the potential to have a quarterback with talents the Big Apple hasn’t seen in probably… ever. All he has to do is survive one year of head coach Rex Ryan and Mark Sanchez, something that will definitely be harder than it sounds.
After a few drinks, anything looks good!
The best of the rest, where hidden gems could be found.
Johnathan Franklin, RB, Green Bay Packers. Keenan Allen, WR, San Diego Chargers. Justin Hunter, WR. Tennessee Titans. Matt Barkley QB, Philadelphia Eagles.
James LeBeau is a contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can follow him on Twitter @Jlebeau76 or subscribe on Facebook.com/CraveOnlineSports.
Photo Credit: Getty
