Dynasty News, July 22, 2024

Photo: USA Today Sports

This summer, we will examine the dynasty news through the lens of the three key aspects for dynasty managers: talent, value, and opportunity.

Identifying the correct talent level is the first order of business. Understanding the appropriate level of talent determines whether it is pursuing a correct valuation and comprehension of the opportunity.

It takes success in all three areas to be a successful dynasty manager. Today’s Dynasty News will examine the incoming rookie running backs drafted in the first five rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft and their expected impact on the team’s running back corps.

Round 2, Pick 46 - Jonathon Brooks, Carolina

Brooks was the first running back drafted and the only ball carrier selected in the first two rounds. He played behind studs at Texas. One reason Brooks fell in the draft was a knee injury that he is still rehabilitating. Dynasty managers should love Brooks as he is the choice of the new coaching staff and is a three-down back. The injury may prevent Brooks from being 100% healthy until September or later. This should allow dynasty managers an opportunity to buy from their impatient leaguemates. The Panthers have little else at the position, just Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders. Neither of these veterans is a threat to Brooks’ touches. Coach Canales used a valuable pick on Brooks and will put him in position to succeed. This is great for dynasty.

Round 3, Pick 66 - Trey Benson, Arizona

Benson is a big back (6-foot-1, 223 pounds) with surprising speed and elusiveness. Benson will sit behind veteran James Conner to start his career but was drafted to be the lead back in the near future. The Cardinals are rebuilding their offense and have a good, young core with Kyler Murray at quarterback, Benson at tailback, Marvin Harrison at receiver, and Trey McBride at tight end. Benson’s speed is a great addition to the Arizona offense. Conner is a solid, plodding ball carrier at this stage of his career. Dynasty managers should expect Conner to exit next offseason, paving the way for Benson.  He has the potential to be a top-five dynasty back in the future.

Round 3, Pick 83 - Blake Corum, LA Rams

Corum joins a crowded backfield in Los Angeles. Kyren Williams occupies the lead-back role, but coach McVay told reporters that the team season Corum as a replica of Williams. This should be news to the ears of those playing in dynasty leagues. Corum is stocky (5-foot-8, 213 pounds) and has outstanding contact-balance, without much speed. He is a strong between-the-tackles runner.  This situation is confusing for most dynasty managers. Do you acquire Corum for him to sit behind Williams for two years? Is Corum just a handcuff? Or, is Corum a threat to Williams? We fall into the last group and think the situation is a great buy opportunity for dynasty managers.

Round 3, Pick 88 - MarShawn Lloyd, Green Bay

Lloyd is an older dynasty prospect who is elusive, with breakaway speed. He was not used much in the USC offense, so Lloyd has a lot of tread left. Fumbling issues caused Lloyd to slip some in the draft. He steps into the backup role behind Jash Jacobs while A.J. Dillon slides to the third-back role.  Lloyd’s speed is a great addition to the Packers offense. Jacobs looked to have lost a step last year, which could open up touches for the rookie. In dynasty, the apparent crowded situation should lower the cost of acquisition. But there is a solid chance that – if he solves the fumbling – we will be talking about Lloyd as a dynasty darling next offseason.