2013 Rookie Review

Photo: USA Today Sports

Introduction by Sigmund Bloom

Last year's rookie class will go down as one of the best in fantasy football history if their rookie performances point in the direction that their careers are headed. Fantasy football owners who are looking for similar instant QB1 and RB1 producers will be disappointed when they survey this class, one of the weakest skill position groups in recent memory. That doesn't mean that you should write off this class as a source of points for your fantasy teams.

A very deep wide receiver class, varied and intriguing running back class, and tight end class that could yield at least three fantasy TE1s lead the way, with a few dual threat quarterbacks and strong IDP class helping fill in the gaps in rookie drafts. While this class might lack the elite upside players of 2012, it could give us more than ten starting wide receivers and plenty of running backs who can produce if they are given the opportunity. The Footballguys staff gives you the information you need to proceed with fitting rookies into your short and long-term fantasy plans.

Quarterbacks by Matt Waldman

EJ Manuel, Buffalo Bills

• Strengths: Manuel is a 6-5, 237-lb. passer with the skill to make plays with his legs, but the arm and savvy to maneuver a tight pocket and find the open man. He played in an offense that gave him a variety of experiences including working from center, operating the read-option, and passing from a traditional shotgun.
   
• Weaknesses: Manuel has to continue to refine his game, but his deficiencies are less a matter of poor technical skills and decision-making as much as it is a game that needs more refining. Think of Colin Kaepernick entering the league as opposed to Tim Tebow and that's the kind of blank slate Manuel has to offer.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Manuel will compete for the starting job in an up-tempo offense that will take advantage of his athleticism to run the zone-option with running back C.J. Spiller while spreading the field with Steve Johnson, Robert Woods, and possibly Da'Rick Rogers. This is a young offense that could use its athleticism to keep defenses off balance, but don't expect more than QB2 production from Manuel this year because this unit is young and Manuel isn't on Robert Griffin's level as a runner.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Manuel has QB1 upside within a few years, but he'll need the Bills to get a lot better in a short span of time. It's probably best to consider Manuel a solid QB2 capable of developing into a low-end starter as the Bills grow.
   
• NFL Comparison: Manuel and Andrew Luck are similar athletes in terms of physical dimensions and both are physical runners with good skill but not quite game-breaking ability. They also share good, but not great arm strength and excel with moving away from pressure. Manuel isn't as skilled in the X's and O's of the game, but he's capable. He's just on a slower learning curve compared to Luck. Most are.

Tyler Wilson, Oakland Raiders

• Strengths: Wilson possesses skill at managing a tight pocket. He improvises well and can make plays on the move. He's also one of the tougher quarterbacks around because he's willing to stand in the pocket, take punishment to deliver the ball and then get up again to make a big play. He's aggressive and integrates his skills successfully against top competition.
   
• Weaknesses: Wilson has a good arm, but it's a notch below most franchise-caliber prospects. He has a reckless streak and he'll try to make throws that test the limits of his arm. His willingness to take punishment could cost him games and a chance at a long-term starting job if he tries too hard to assert his leadership on a team that lacks the caliber of surrounding talent to elevate his game.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Wilson has the talent to push Matt Flynn for the starting job this year. If he wins, he'll need Denarius Moore, Jacoby Ford, and Darren McFadden to stay healthy and play to their potential for Wilson to have any shot at fantasy viability. He's a low-end QB2 this year, at best.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: I think Wilson has the talent to develop into a low-end QB1, but he's the type of player who needs talent to help him elevate his game more than he'll elevate less talented teammates. If you make Wilson a player to stash on a practice squad as a potential bye-week starter, you won't be disappointed.
   
• NFL Comparison: If Wilson exceeds expectations, think Tony Romo but I think Matt Hasselbeck or Marc Bulger are more akin to his skill set. Hasselbeck was reckless early in his career, but grew into a fine leader and had a stretch of fantasy productivity as a QB1.

Geno Smith, New York Jets

• Strengths: Smith has good patience in the pocket and will stand in tight quarters to find an open man. He also has fundamental accuracy at every range of the field and enough athleticism to gain yards when he breaks the pocket.
   
• Weaknesses: Smith's decision-making and footwork lacks consistency and the offshoot of these problems is a lack of refined accuracy.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The Jets have been a dysfunctional organization and now sports three quarterbacks vying for a starting gig. Asking Smith to galvanize this team will be a tall order. It's a high expectation for any rookie in a media-frenzied, drama-friendly town. Smith's absolute upside this year is a low-end QB2 if he earns the starting job. Smith and Wilson are best-considered free agent options.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: If Smith manages to earn the job and lead this team without dysfunction, he has low-end QB1 upside. However, this Jets situation is volatile and it reduces his upside to that of a QB2 until there's proof of a change within the organization and he hasn't been jerked around by the current regime.
   
• NFL Comparison: Like Tyler Wilson, Smith has a lot of qualities that stylistically fit Tony Romo's game. However, Smith has more mobility than Wilson and this places him on a continuum of player more along the lines of Romo and Rich Gannon than Romo and Matt Hasselbeck.

Matt Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles

• Strengths: Barkley has refined skill running a west coast offense. He displays accuracy as a short and intermediate passer with occasional success as a deep ball thrower. He works well in a play-action game that utilizes quick throws off boot legs. Barkley also demonstrates polish maneuvering the pocket under pressure so he can stay in position to deliver the ball downfield.
   
• Weaknesses: Despite a wealth of skills described above, Barkley has issues putting each of these individual components together on plays where he feels pressure from the defense. The better NFL quarterbacks integrate these disparate skills within the scope of one play to beat a defense. Barkley often had trouble doing this in the college game.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The Eagles loved Barkley at USC and the organization believes the rookie will be a nice fit for Chip Kelley's run-heavy, up-tempo west coast offense.  If the Eagles can dictate the action and lesson pressure in the pocket, Barkley could develop into a nice fit, but he only has a minor chance of beginning the season as a starter with Michael Vick and Nick Foles in town.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Barkley has a good chance to compete for the starting job in 2014 and produce as a QB2 with bye-week production for fantasy owners. He'll need this offense to take the league by storm in terms of scheme if fantasy owners can reasonably expect QB1 production.
   
• NFL Comparison: If Barkley plays to his absolute upside, his physical skills and style of play are similar to Matt Ryan. If he fails to integrate his skills under pressure, he'll be more like journeyman Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Sean Renfree, Atlanta Falcons

• Strengths: David Cutcliffe, Renfree's head coach at Duke, says the Falcons rookie has as a mental capacity for the game on par with Peyton and Eli Manning and claims the passer will be the steal of the draft. I believe Renfree already throws the intermediate and deep ball with greater anticipation than Matt Ryan. He's willing to stand in the pocket and maneuvers tight spaces well enough under fire to develop into a starting quarterback.
   
• Weaknesses: Renfree has good size and arm strength, but he lacks great mobility and athleticism. He didn't play in a top-notch program and he tore his pectoral muscle in his final game of his college career, which limited his pre-draft workouts.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Unless Matt Ryan gets hurt Renfree won't have a chance to get pressed into action. If he earns the No.2 job this year, which is a true possibility given the dearth of talent on the Falcons depth chart he has the talent around him to produce as a high-end QB2 as a rookie. Even so, he's a fantasy free agent and not worth drafting.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: A late-round of the Falcons, Renfree might be in one of the best long-term scenarios of any prospect. Think about it. The Falcons are surrounded with excellent offensive talent, Renfree will learn from a franchise starter, and if he plays he'll have a showcase with a good team compared to the dysfunction or weaker talents of other organizations. He might not be worth a pick for any bt the deepest dynasty league rosters, but he's worth monitoring if you don't stash him on a practice squad.
   
• NFL Comparison: Renfree has limited athleticism, which puts him in a class of player like Philip Rivers and Bernie Kosar – especially in terms of anticipation. He throws a ball that's as pretty as Sam Bradford.

Ryan Nassib, New York Giants

• Strengths: Nassib has a good arm, but hasn't refined his delivery maximize his strength. He's a smart player with good accuracy and anticipation in the short and intermediate passing game. He can maneuver the pocket and keep his eyes downfield.
   
• Weaknesses: Nassib's deep ball needs work. He places too much air under these passes and rarely delivers the ball with good anticipation to lead the receiver. He has some maneuverability, but his athleticism is overstated as a runner.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The No.3 quarterback on the Giants depth chart.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Eventually successor to David Carr as Eli Manning's primary backup. He has the upside to develop into a future starter who the Giants can trade away. He's a borderline QB1 talent if this happens.
   
• NFL Comparison: If Nassib develops his deep ball, he has the acumen to play within the pocket-friendly, downfield style of Tom Brady. If not, think Chad Pennington.

Football analysts were split on Nassib. Some viewed him as the best prospect of this quarterback class. Others felt he was backup material. I see Nassib has a future starter, but he'll need to work on his release and his vertical passing game. He should make the Giants roster as the No.3 quarterback this year, displace David Carr by 2014, and perhaps become the subject of trade talk as a future starter for another team by 2015. Nassib will need a strong team around him to have high-end fantasy production if this happens, but his accuracy and pocket presence makes him worth a stash in deep dynasty leagues.

Ryan Griffin, New Orleans Saints

• Strengths: Griffin is strong, works well from the pocket, and has an aggressive, downfield mindset as a passer.
   
• Weaknesses: He played for an undermanned Tulane squad and sometimes pressed with his decision-making to make plays that weren't there.
   
• 2013 Outlook: No.3 quarterback as a developmental project for the Saints.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Griffin has more upside than recent developmental project Chase Daniel, who signed a contract with the Chiefs as its primary backup. Griffin has potential to develop into the heir apparent to Drew Brees by 2015. He's worth monitoring.
   
• NFL Comparison: Griffin is built a little like Dan Fouts and has those kinds of physical tools. The mental acumen for the game is potential good enough to develop, but he needs a few years and the patience of a team to develop.

Tyler Bray, Kansas City Chiefs

• Strengths: Rare arm strength and the ability to squeeze the ball into tight windows from off-balanced positions. Bray has the ability to place the ball anywhere on the field from the pocket or on the move.  He demonstrates maneuverability under pressure to keep his eyes downfield.
   
• Weaknesses: Bray lacks the discipline to make mature decisions. He takes too many risks because of extreme belief in his arm strength and natural accuracy. He's immature and doesn't prepare. He willfully ignores safe plays and doesn't work at the craft of quarterbacking.
   
• 2013 Outlook: He'll vie for the No.3 quarterback job behind Alex Smith and Chase Daniel, two players who lack his physical talent as a thrower.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: If Bray can learn from his less talented teammates on the depth chart and develop into a professional with his approach to the game, he has more natural upside than any quarterback in this class and has fantasy QB1 talent. In fact, he has high-end QB1 talent.
   
• NFL Comparison: A bigger, more athletic Jeff George in terms of skill, style, and maturity.

Running Backs by Cecil Lammey

In 2012 Trent Richardson (Browns) and Doug Martin (Buccaneers) were both first-round picks so it was expected when they became fantasy darlings. However, when sixth-round pick Alfred Morris rushed for over 1,600 yards as a rookie many were surprised. Other late round backs like Vick Ballard (5th Colts), Bryce Brown (7th Eagles) and Daryl Richardson (7th Rams) also became key players for their team as rookies. This year's draft class isn't as exciting as 2012's class, but that doesn't mean it lacks talent. This year we should see rookie runners like Eddie Lacy (Packers), Le'Veon Bell (Steelers), and Montee Ball (Broncos) get a chance to be starters for their respective teams.  They don't have completely clear paths to the starting job and all three will have to win the job in training camp. The first running back selected in this class, Giovani Bernard (Bengals) may also be in line to start this season. A late round pick like Zac Stacy (Rams) is a great fit for the Jeff Fisher offense and might have a bigger role than some think. Arguably the best pure runner in this year's class, 49ers fourth-round pick Marcus Lattimore could begin the season on the PUP list but has high dynasty value.

Eddie Lacy, Green Bay Packers

• Strengths: Lacy runs with a lot of power and can generate that power instantly after the handoff. He has the leg drive to charge through arm tackles and runs with a good pad level which allows him to pick up extra yardage after contact. Lacy has outstanding feet for a big man and can execute a dangerous spin move at speed and lose little momentum. While not known for his receiving ability, Lacy can be counted on as a reliable receiver out of the backfield. Lacy runs with a nasty attitude and loves to toy with or punish defenders.
• Weaknesses: Durability is a huge concern (turf toe, ankle sprains) and the reason he fell in the NFL draft.
• 2013 Outlook: Lacy will compete with fellow rookie Jonathan Franklin and veteran DuJuan Harris for the starting job. He is considered the favorite to win the job and will benefit from defenses that aren't stacking the line to stop the run. Lacy has top 25 potential if he wins the job and stays healthy as a rookie.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Perhaps a shorter NFL career due to injury woes. Top 25 potential while he's healthy.
   
• NFL Comparison: Smaller Jerome Bettis with durability issues.

Montee Ball, Denver Broncos

• Strengths: Productivity is the name of the game with Ball. He led the FBS in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns and runs of 15 yards or longer since the start of the 2011 season. Ball makes his living between the tackles and does a good job of running through trash at the line of scrimmage. He does have the speed to get to the edge consistently. Over the last two years he averaged 7.1 yards per carry outside the tackles and almost 37 percent of his rushes went there during that time. Ball has good phone booth quickness and finds ways to get skinny to avoid contact. He is a determined and patient runner who will fight for the extra yard.
   
• Weaknesses: Ball is not creative in the open field and lacks the long speed to be a breakaway threat.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Seen as the most likely to win the starting job for the Broncos. The history of rookie running backs under John Fox is not kind and the best case scenario for Ball is around 225 carries on the year. His nose for the end zone will increase his fantasy stock.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Could be top 25 back while Peyton Manning is under center for Broncos. After that Ball could struggle against more defensive attention.
   
• NFL Comparison: A more decisive Ben Tate.

Le'Veon Bell, Pittsburgh Steelers

• Strengths: Bell has an outstanding size/speed combination and will take defenders by surprise in the open field. Even though he's big Bell does a good job of getting skinny to squeeze between blockers and pick up extra yardage. Bell is athletic in the open field and has light feet for a big man. He can even jump over would be tacklers if they go low. Bell intimidates opponents with his size but can run around them with his speed. He is the most versatile back in this draft class. Bell has good hands, can run routes like a wide receiver, and can even line up in the slot if need be.
   
• Weaknesses: Bell runs upright which exposes his midsection to punishment and also causes ball security issues. He lacks instant burst and instant power, and thus will struggle if the hole isn't there.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Bell should win the starting job for the Steelers. He could be in for the biggest amount of carries for any rookie running back in this class. Bell could be a top 25 back if he wins and keeps the job for the entire season.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Has the potential to be a top 25 back for years.
   
• NFL Comparison: Michael Bush with better hands and versatility.

Giovani Bernard, Cincinnati Bengals

• Strengths: Bernard was one of the best backs in college last year, ranking fourth in the nation with an average of 198.1 all-purpose yards per game. He has an instant burst which gets him to top speed in a hurry. Bernard has good foot frequency and can change direction on a dime without losing much speed. He runs low, with good pad level and balance, which helps him run through arm tackles. Bernard does a good job of allowing blocks to fully develop in front of him and will wait until the right time to turn on the speed. He has great hands as a receiver out of the backfield and causes mismatch problems on wheel routes.
   
• Weaknesses: His frame is maxed out and he lacks the size to be a workhorse at the pro level.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Bernard should start his career as a change of pace back and big play option for the Bengals behind BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Some think he could surpass Green-Ellis as the starter sometime during 2013.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: If Bernard shows the ability to take the NFL beating and stay healthy he could perform like a top 20 running back because of his big play ability.
   
• NFL Comparison: A DeAngelo Williams clone.

Zac Stacy, St. Louis Rams

• Strengths: Yards after contact is the name of the game with Stacy. He is built low to the ground, runs with proper pad level, and always falls forward when tackled. Stacy loves to initiate contact and will punish defenders as the game goes on. He is a rhythm runner who gets stronger with more carries and thrives on contact. He is a slippery runner with subtle moves to create his own space. Stacy is known as a team first player and has an outstanding work ethic on the practice field and in the weight room. He is a decisive runner and wastes little motion with the rock in his hand.
   
• Weaknesses: Stacy doesn't have ankle breaking moves and only averaged 10 catches per season in college. He also tends to get dinged up quite a bit as he missed parts of several games with various injuries.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Stacy will compete with Daryl Richardson and Isaiah Pead for the starting job. A dark horse to win the position, Stacy is the best fit for a Jeff Fisher offense because of his leg drive and power at the point of attack.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: If Stacy is the lead back in the RBBC he could consistently be a top 25 back.
   
• NFL Comparison: Shorter Shonn Greene with better footwork.

Johnathan Franklin, Green Bay Packers

• Strengths: Franklin runs bigger than his size and has the speed to get to the edge consistently. He moves well laterally and will make defenders miss in tight spaces. Once in the open field Franklin has the speed to score from anywhere on the field. He was affectionately known as ìjet skiî by his college teammates and is a big play waiting to happen. Franklin is a high effort runner who can create on his own if defenders shake free of their blocks. He has excellent foot speed and keeps his feet upon contact, showing good balance to pick up yards after taking a hit.
   
• Weaknesses: Franklin is not polished in pass protection and had ball security issues throughout his college career.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Franklin will battle Eddie Lacy and DuJuan Harris in training camp for the starting job. He will have to be patient and wait for his time if Lacy wins the job initially. Once on the field Franklin could impress and hold onto the starting position.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Franklin has starter's ability and may get into the starting lineup as a rookie. If the featured guy in a RBBC Franklin has the ability to be a top 25 running back.
   
• NFL Comparison: A smaller Frank Gore.

Marcus Lattimore, San Francisco 49ers

• Strengths: Lattimore is a smooth runner who is swift in the open field and can get to top speed in a hurry. He finishes strong and can run over defenders in his way. Lattimore has the moves and creativity to make defenders miss in the open field as well. He will fight for extra yards and refuses to go down after contact. He moves well for a big man because he stays light on his feet and does a good job of setting up defenders. He has good concentration as a receiver out of the backfield and will square up rushers in pass protection.
   
• Weaknesses: Durability is a huge concern after two major knee injuries in back-to-back seasons.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The 49ers could choose to put Lattimore on the PUP list if he's not ready for the start of the regular season. He could perhaps have a limited role later in the season or in the playoffs if healthy.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Potential to be a top 15 fantasy RB if he stays healthy. Durability may shorten his NFL career.
   
• NFL Comparison: If 100% healthy, a mix between Jonathan Stewart and Arian Foster.

Christine Michael, Seattle Seahawks

• Strengths: Michael is an exciting player to watch. His legs are like pistons when he runs, constantly churning and each step he takes comes with incredible power. He's not afraid of contact and will lower his shoulder to take defenders head on. An aggressive runner, Michael will often blast through defenders in the hole and pick up yards after contact. He does have the burst and acceleration to get to top speed in a hurry and he can make the corner consistently. Michael loves to hurt defenders and has a punishing stiff arm he uses to get free in the open field.
   
• Weaknesses: Durability is a huge concern after multiple leg injuries in college. Michael is a high energy runner who dances too much at times and wastes a lot of motion when he runs. Attitude and pass protection are also question marks with his game.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Will compete with Robert Turbin to be the primary backup behind Marshawn Lynch. He is most likely to be the third-string runner with limited touches as a rookie.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Durability/maturity issues could hold him back. If healthy and motivated he has the ability to be a top 20 back with upside.
   
• NFL Comparison: High energy, harder charging Mikel Leshoure.

Stepfan Taylor, Arizona Cardinals

• Strengths: Taylor is arguably the most well rounded back in this draft class. He's a dependable runner who can be a workhorse if called upon. Taylor can run effectively between the tackles and has the size to pick up short yardage and goalline situations. He also showed the ability to get to the corner on outside runs and does a good job allowing his blocks to fully develop in front of him. Taylor has sharp footwork and can make surprising cuts for a bigger back. He can also be relied on to be a good receiver on screen passes.
   
• Weaknesses: Taylor is a well-rounded player but lacks an outstanding trait. Too easily brought down by ankle tackles and will often miss cutback lanes.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Taylor will compete with Rashard Mendenhall and Ryan Williams for the starting job. Likely the third option in that race initially. Receiving ability and durability issues of Williams and Mendenhall could get Taylor onto the field at some point in 2013.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Good but not great future. Taylor is a good all-purpose runner and receiver who could be top 32 back if given a bigger role.
   
• NFL Comparison: Rashad Jennings with better hands.

Mike Gillislee, Miami Dolphins

• Strengths: Gillislee has good footwork and can set up defenders in the open field. He has good anticipation and it helps him maximize the yards gained on each carry.  He's a tough and somewhat effective runner between the tackles. Gillislee got stronger as games went on and led the SEC in carries last year. In 2012 Gillislee averaged 2.0 yards after contact per rush in the second half of games compared to 1.5 yards after contact per rush in the first half. He's rarely brought down by the first defender and is known as a feisty runner.
   
• Weaknesses: He doesn't play as big as his size. Gillislee will often look for the big play, dance, and lose yardage when it's best to just lower his head and drive his legs.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Gillislee will compete with Daniel Thomas to be the primary backup behind Lamar Miller. He could make it onto the field as a rookie in short yardage or goalline situations.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Better suited as a backup player and spot starter. Gillislee can provide valuable depth and has a good all-around game.
   
• NFL Comparison: Knowshon Moreno.

Joseph Randle, Dallas Cowboys

• Strengths: Randle is arguably the best pass protector in this draft class. He has incredibly straight line speed and is difficult to catch from behind. Randle accelerates quickly and shows a strong plant foot when changing direction. He is not the biggest back but will lower his pads to take on tacklers in the box or in the open field. Randle compiled 108 career catches at Oklahoma State and can be relied on as a receiver out of the backfield with big play ability. He runs with good balance and can bounce off would be tacklers at the second level.
   
• Weaknesses: An overly emotional player that needs to show more maturity on the field. He's lean and lacks the frame to add much more muscle at the pro level. Randle will overrun cutback lanes at times because of his aggressive style.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Essentially locked in as the primary backup behind Demarco Murray. Should see significant change of pace carries and could start this year if/when Murray is hurt.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: A good change of pace back because of his speed. He could struggle with a bigger role because of his lack of size and creativity.
   
• NFL Comparison: A less creative but as explosive Felix Jones.

Latavius Murray, Oakland Raiders

• Strengths: Murray is a swift runner who glides down the field. He has the size to punish defenders in the box and can consistently run through arm tackles. Murray can get to the corner and once he squares his shoulders to the line of scrimmage he is a big load to bring down. He runs with a nasty attitude and loves to run over opponents. This attitude also helps Murray fight for extra yards and maximize every carry. He is a smooth athlete with subtle moves to create his own space in the open field.
   
• Weaknesses: Murray has good straight line speed but it takes a while to build a head of steam. He lacks explosion and can too often be swallowed up by the defense.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Murray will compete with Rashad Jennings to be the primary backup behind Darren McFadden. With McFadden's injury history Murray could see three or four games of an increased workload in 2013.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Not explosive enough to be a consistent starter. Can be productive as a fill in starter and reserve player.
   
• NFL Comparison: Slower version of former Titans RB Chris Brown.

Chris Thompson, Washington Redskins

• Strengths: Foot frequency, speed, and big play ability is the name of Thompson's game. He is a jitterbug in the open field and difficult for defenders to get a bead on. He accelerates in the blink of an eye and can change direction without losing much (if any) speed. In the open field Thompson is incredibly dangerous because he has the speed and explosion to outrun angles and pick up huge yards. He should be featured on draw plays and screen passes to get him into space.
   
• Weaknesses: Thompson lacks the size to be anything more than a change of pace back. Durability concerns abound because of his knee injury in 2012.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Thompson will compete with Roy Helu and Evan Royster for snaps behind Alfred Morris. He is the perfect complementary back behind Morris because of his speed and homerun ability.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: A good change of pace back who can score from anywhere on the field. Thompson is best suited as a big play complementary back behind a solid starter.
   
• NFL Comparison: Danny Woodhead with better long speed.

Denard Robinson, Jacksonville Jaguars

• Strengths: Robinson is a dangerous runner in the open field because of his speed, burst, and acceleration. He can change direction on a dime and has incredible stop/start ability. Robinson is a patient runner who understands angles and where a defense is likely to pursue him from. He has good balance and will surprise defenders who give him a shoulder by keeping his feet and continuing to run down the field. He's a versatile player who can help in the return game in addition to playing Wildcat quarterback or wide receiver.
   
• Weaknesses: Robinson runs too upright and will get tackled too easily. He has ball security issues and takes a lot of unnecessary hits.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The Jaguars would like to get Robinson 10-15 touches a game as a runner, receiver, or return man. Must show the ability to stay healthy and hold onto the rock.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Size will prevent him from being anything more than a change of pace player.
   
• NFL Comparison: Dexter McCluster.

Knile Davis, Kansas City Chiefs

• Strengths: Davis has the straight line speed to be a factor in the open field. He gets to top speed in a hurry and is known for an aggressive playing style between the tackles. Davis hits the hole swiftly and  can bounce off would be tacklers because of his balance. He has the build of a starter in the NFL and the speed to pick up yards in chunks.
   
• Weaknesses: Durability is a huge concern after multiple ankle problems in college. He's fast but lacks creativity or elusiveness in the open field.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Davis will compete with Shaun Draughn to be the primary backup behind Jamaal Charles. He may get on the field this year in short yardage and goalline situations.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Borderline NFL talent. Will struggle to make an impact and stay healthy with a bigger role.
   
• NFL Comparison: If healthy, a less elusive Darren McFadden.

Wide Receivers by Sigmund Bloom

The 2012 rookie class had a couple of massive hits at running back and quarterback, but the wide receiver class wasn't nearly as fruitful. Like 2012, 2013's class of wideouts lacks a “can't miss” player like Calvin Johnson, AJ Green, or Julio Jones, but it is deeper than 2012, and there are a few wide receivers poised to make an instant impact.

The 2013 class is full of intriguing talents that span the very wide spectrum of the types of players that the NFL looks for at the position. The success or failure of players like Tavon Austin, Cordarrelle Patterson, and Justin Hunter will influence how similar players are treated in future drafts. In the case of Austin and Patterson, they could even broaden the ways wide receivers are used in offenses.

What this class lacks in star power is made up for by its diversity and the compelling nature of some of the stories in the group. Let's break down this fascinating class

Cordarrelle Patterson, Minnesota Vikings

• Strengths: Patterson is lethal in the open field. His inspired moves, field vision, and breakaway speed will keep defenses on their heels from the moment he has the ball in his hands. He is an ultra-athletic big receiver with the ability to create mismatches against all but the best corners in the game.
   
• Weaknesses: Patterson is one of the rawest first-round picks at wide receiver in recent memory. He is prone to lapses in concentration and effort and his route-running is work in progress. Patterson's intelligence and ability to learn the playbook have been questioned, and his pre-draft interviews did not go very well.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Patterson will attempt to push Jerome Simpson to start opposite Greg Jennings, but he is more likely to be used on special plays designed to get the ball in his hands on only a dozen or two snaps a game. He is talented enough to force his way on the field if he can become more reliable.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Patterson has the highest ceiling of anyone in this depth. If he can just become average as a receiver, he can be a fantasy WR1. If he develops some polish to his game, he'll threaten the top five.
   
• NFL Comparison: Bigger Percy Harvin

Tavon Austin, St. Louis Rams

• Strengths: Austin will instantly become one of the quickest players in the game, and he has the long speed turn any touch into a touchdown. He can provide playmaking punch out of the backfield and in the return game. Austin did not miss a game at West Virginia despite being only 5'9” 174.
   
• Weaknesses: Austin is too small to line up outside, and some doubt his ability to hold up under NFL punishment. He generally lacks fear working the middle of the field, but Austin might get dangerously pinballed around in that area if he runs downfield routes in the pros.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The Rams didn't trade up to #8 to have Austin on the bench. He'll get on the field a lot and St. Louis will make every effort to get the ball in his hands. Consider him an upside WR3 play and priority target in the mid-rounds of PPR leagues.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Austin may not catch 120 balls in a year like Wes Welker has been lately, but he can provide the same mid-low fantasy WR1 value Welker has been creating in PPR leagues.
   
• NFL Comparison: A love child of Wes Welker and Darren Sproles

DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans

• Strengths: Hopkins is a very advanced route runner, with a keen understanding of how to change speeds and disguise breaks in his routes. He has tremendous ball skills and hands, especially on targets above his head, and Hopkins is an aggressive and dangerous runner after the catch.
   
• Weaknesses: Hopkins lacks top-end size, speed, or quickness. He sometimes struggles on balls that he has to compete for over the middle of the field.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Hopkins will step in and start right away for the Texans opposite Andre Johnson. He'll probably go off the board as a WR4 in the 9th-12th round.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: While his ceiling is probably no higher than a fantasy WR2, Hopkins also has probably the highest floor of any receiver in this class. His pro-ready all-around game gives him very little bust risk.
   
• NFL Comparison: Slower Roddy White

Keenan Allen, San Diego Chargers

• Strengths: Allen is a big, strong receiver, with a “my ball” mentality and a strong game after the catch. He creates separation with a quick get-off and excellent footwork in his precise route-running. His ball skills and body control create a huge catch radius.
   
• Weaknesses: Allen was allegedly red-flagged for a drug test result at the Combine and also had a knee injury that kept him from being 100% at any point in the pre-draft process. He lacks good straight-line speed and Allen's hands could be more consistent.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Allen will be waiting in the wings for a Malcom Floyd or Danario Alexander injury to threaten for a starting spot. He can play in the slot even though he is a big receiver, so he could get on the field right away in three or four wide receiver sets.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Even though he fell to the third-round, Allen is more of a top 50 overall talent, and he has a pretty clear path to be the Chargers long-term #1 receiver if he develops well.
   
• NFL Comparison: Less physically-imposing Brandon Marshall

Markus Wheaton, Pittsburgh Steelers

• Strengths: Wheaton has sprinter's speed combined with very good feet to create separation with sharp routes. He can adjust well to errant throws and Wheaton is not afraid to leave himself open to a big hit to make a catch over the middle.
   
• Weaknesses: Wheaton is on the small side and can get pushed around by strong corners. While he is a burner, he is not elusive in the open field.
   
• 2013 Outlook: He should be able to overtake Jerricho Cotchery to become the team's #3 receiver at some point this season. If Emmanuel Sanders can't stay healthy, Wheaton could start by year's end.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Wheaton projects as a long-term starter opposite Antonio Brown, assuming the team doesn't bring Sanders back in free agency next year.
   
• NFL Comparison: Santonio Holmes with his head on straight

Robert Woods, Buffalo Bills

• Strengths: Woods is an acrobatic receiver with great hands, concentration, and body control on difficult catches. He is a tough, balanced runner after the catch, with good speed and quickness that could improve if his ankle gets back to 100%.
   
• Weaknesses: Woods hasn't been fully healthy for two years because of a nagging ankle injury. He hasn't looked as fast, or generally dangerous on offense since the injury. He is somewhat undersized and has gotten more inconsistent as of late.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Woods really has no stiff competition to start in Buffalo. The installation of a new offense could be bumpy, especially if first-round pick EJ Manuel starts, but Woods should have immediate opportunity.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Woods projects as a complementary receiver with WR3/WR4 fantasy value, but one that could be very productive with a good #1 on the other side.
   
• NFL Comparison: USC Steve Smith before his microfracture surgery

Justin Hunter, Tennessee Titans

• Strengths: Before tearing his ACL in 2011, Hunter looked like Randy Moss at times. He has a long, lean frame, with big ups and the body control to make catches that no defender can stop. Hunter has breakaway speed and he can make things happen after the catch.
   
• Weaknesses: Hunter had an alarming number of drops in 2012, and hasn't been consistently excellent since before his injury. He is a bit of a stick figure who could get manhandled by powerful corners if he doesn't bulk up in the pros.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Kenny Britt and Kendall Wright should start, but if Britt slips up or gets hurt, Hunter will be right there to replace him. He should be on your waiver wire speed dial list if he goes undrafted, and on your late-round sleeper list if he has a good camp.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Only his collegiate teammate Patterson has a higher ceiling, as Hunter has all of the tools to be a #1 wide receiver in the pros. He also has a moderate-to-high bust risk as a player whose draft stock was mostly based on potential, not production.
   
• NFL Comparison: Randy Moss with stretches of bad Braylon Edwards

Stedman Bailey, St. Louis Rams

• Strengths: Bailey is natural tracking the deep ball over his shoulder, and he will go up and bang in the air for the ball despite being only 5'10” 190. Bailey can make tacklers miss after the catch, and he runs with a back's mentality when it comes time to absorb and fight through contact. He is a crisp route runner who should have no trouble creating separation in the pros.
   
• Weaknesses: Bailey isn't especially, big, fast, or quick. Some think that his production was more a function of his offense than his talent. He might be pigeonholed as a slot receiver in the pros.
   
• 2013 Outlook: If 2012 second-round pick Brian Quick isn't progressing, Bailey could pass him to get on the field with collegiate teammate Tavon Austin. He'll be a deep sleeper to track in training camp.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: With the Rams constructing a spread passing offense, Bailey projects as a good fit outside, but he will be blocked by the larger and more athletic Quick if Quick hits. His ability to play the short/long game with Austin could give him an edge if Quick slips up.
   
• NFL Comparison: Less explosive Carolina Steve Smith

Josh Boyce, New England Patriots

• Strengths: Boyce has true breakaway speed in a running back's 5'11” 206-pound frame. He runs precise routes and has good hands, including outside of his frame. Boyce runs hard after the catch and will not be brought down by weak tackle attempts.
   
• Weaknesses: Since he is short with short arms, some doubt his ability to play outside in the pros. He was sidelined with a broken bone in his foot before the draft.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Boyce will be a battle royale with fellow rookie Aaron Dobson and a host of veteran castoffs to start opposite Danny Amendola
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Although he'll have to beat out Dobson, who was drafted higher, Boyce could end up in a very good WR2 spot as long as Tom Brady is in New England. He was more consistent and productive than Dobson in college.
   
• NFL Comparison: Thicker Chris Givens

Terrance Williams, Dallas Cowboys

• Strengths: Williams has an excellent size/speed combination, and he has been getting better every year of his collegiate career. He's also an excellent blocker.
   
• Weaknesses: Williams is not an advanced route-runner, and most of effectiveness comes via his tools. He isn't always a hands catcher, and Williams is not difficult to tackle after the catch.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Williams will compete with Dwayne Harris for the sometimes very productive WR3 job in Dallas. If Miles Austin continues to have trouble staying healthy, Williams could start at some point this year,
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Austin's salary and durability woes are a bad combination that could get him cut next offseason, opening the door to a starting spot for Williams.
   
• NFL Comparison: Less Explosive Miles Austin

Quinton Patton, San Francisco 49ers

• Strengths: Patton was extremely productive in college even though defenses knew he was the primary option in his offense. He gets up to speed quickly and creates separation with quick foot and an instant throttle down.
   
• Weaknesses: Patton isn't a true burner, he's not big, and he's not a dangerous runner after the catch. He also has trouble catching contested balls in the air.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Patton will be competing with 2012 first-round pick AJ Jenkins and veteran Kyle Williams to be the third wide receiver behind Michael Crabtree and Anquan Boldin. If Mario Manningham can recover from his late-season ACL tear, then Patton will vie for the #4 wide receiver job.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: With Boldin on only a one-year deal and Jenkins a huge disappointment so far, Patton has a good chance to the long-term #2 receiver in this offense with good development during his rookie year.
   
• NFL Comparison: Poor man's Reggie Wayne

Da'Rick Rogers, Buffalo Bills

• Strengths: Rogers has terrific size and strength and will make smaller corners look powerless to stop him from catching the ball. He is a very good athlete for a big receiver and most NFL corners will be at a physical disadvantage against him both before and after the catch.
   
• Weaknesses: Rogers was booted from Tennessee for multiple failed drug tests, and teams thought so little of this 2nd-3rd round talent's character that he went undrafted in April. He's not elusive after the catch and Rogers' game is mostly predicated on his physical gifts.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Rogers needs to avoid any transgressions in camp just to make the roster. If he does, he should push for playing time in three-wide sets right away.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Rogers will either be a wasted rookie pick, or he'll hit bigger than many of the names above him on this list.
   
• NFL Comparison: Tampa Mike Williams with less game in the air, but more strength

Aaron Dobson, New England Patriots

• Strengths: Dobson has a long-limbed, explosive, agile body with highlight-reel body control. He'll be a red zone weapon and give the Patriots a jumpball receiver that they sorely need.
   
• Weaknesses: Dobson was not very productive in a high-flying pass offense and he struggled with drops and inconsistency.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The path to a starting job in one of the best passing offenses in the league is clear. Dobson should be considered a late-round sleeper in redraft leagues as long as he holds onto his headstart for the #2 wide receiver job.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Dobson could settle into WR3/WR4 level value long-term if he can successful win and hold onto the #2 job in New England.
   
• NFL Comparison: Less explosive Sidney Rice with inconsistent hands

Marquise Goodwin, Buffalo Bills

• Strengths: Goodwin is instantly one of the three or five fastest wide receivers in the NFL. He has good hands, and he is tough and physical despite a track background. Goodwin is short for an NFL wide receiver but not slight, with a solid 5'9” 183 pound build.
   
• Weaknesses: Goodwin is a very raw route runner, and he sometimes has trouble spotting the ball in the air. He wasn't used very much in college and might take a while to develop.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Goodwin should start out no higher than #4 in the wide receiver pecking order and contribute on special teams.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Speed can't be taught, but most of the rest of the wide receiver position can, so Goodwin could become a player that demands at least five touches a game to get his jets into play. He is an underrated dynasty prospect.
   
• NFL Comparison: Pint-sized Mike Wallace

Chris Harper, Seattle Seahawks

• Strengths: Harper has a power running back build and mentality even though he's a wide receiver. He has surprising speed for a receiver with his bulk, and Harper is aggressive after the catch, often making the first man miss.
   
• Weaknesses: Harper doesn't create great separation in his routes, and his fight after the catch can leave him exposed to tacklers looking to force fumbles. His concentration and effort were inconsistent, at least in part due to poor quarterback play from Collin Klein.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Harper is likely going to use this year to learn the ropes behind Sidney Rice, Percy Harvin, and Golden Tate.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: With Rice due 8.5 million next year, he could be a cap cut candidate if he has trouble staying healthy again in 2013. Harper has an outside shot to start in 2014 and beyond.
   
• NFL Comparison: Faster Juron Criner

Other wide receivers to remember:

• Corey Fuller, Detroit - This late bloomer has legitimate deep speed and might compete to start right away with Ryan Broyles recovering from his second ACL tear in two years.
   
• Mark Harrison, New England - Harrison fell out of the draft because of inconsistent hands and a broken bone in his foot, but he has a rare combination of size, speed, and explosiveness, and he is in an organization with openings at the wide receiver position.
   
• Tavarres King, Denver - King could get a lot of playing time in a Peyton Manning offense this year if Demaryius Thomas or Eric Decker go down, and Decker is a free agent next year.
   
• Ryan Swope, Arizona - Swope is a slot receiver with running back toughness and the speed to get behind the defense. He only fell to the draft's third day because of a history of concussions in college.
   
• Aaron Mellette, Baltimore - This big, athletic small school receiver will likely require a redshirt year to start his career, but the Ravens have no entrenched #2 wide receiver on the roster right now.
   
• Kenny Stills, New Orleans - This speedster with a good game in the air landed in a terrific pass offense without a clear #3 wide receiver.
   
• T.J. Moe, New England - Moe has an ideal game to play slot receiver in New England's offense, and the players ahead of him on the depth chart (Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman) have always had trouble staying healthy.
   
• Marquess Wilson, Chicago - Wilson's long, lean build and explosive athleticism fit in the NFL, but he quit his Mike Leach-coached team last year. The Bears still used a seventh round pick on him.
   
• Charles Johnson, Green Bay - Johnson is a small school size/speed freak who could be groomed to be the #4 in an explosive pass offense.

Tight Ends by Matt Waldman

Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs

• Strengths: Kelce is an excellent blocker. He doesn't just hit people like most people seem to think good blocking is, but he actually knows how to coordinate his hands and feet and utilize a variety of techniques at the line of scrimmage or in space. He's quick enough to handle edge defenders and safeties in the open field, but strong enough to anchor and turn big men. The former high school quarterback has soft hands and knows how to use them to gain a release at the line of scrimmage against ends and linebackers and defeat the jam against a defensive back. He makes plays as a receiver in tight coverage, but also has the speed and quickness to set up double moves and or run away from opponents in the open field. He played in a pistol offense at Cincinnati and was used as a fullback, H-back, in-line tight end, and outside receiver.
   
• Weaknesses: He was suspended for a year at Cincinnati due to a drug-alcohol problem and depending what limited perspective you believe from the media, he could still be a potential character problem despite not having any known issues since returning.
   
• 2013 Outlook: The Chiefs hired Chris Ault – the father of the Pistol offense – as a consultant, which means Kansas City will likely incorporate this into its system. I've been saying since November that Kelce would be a perfect player for the Pistol. I just thought it would be Washington. Expect Kelce to share time with the likes of Anthony Fasano and (if healthy) Tony Moeaki early, but I think the rookie is a slam-dunk to win the job as the H-Back with Fasano functioning as the in-line player. Kelce could be a high-end TE2 this year with TE1 upside.
   
• Dynasty Outlook: Kelce should be a priority pick among tight ends in this class. Tyler Eifert is coming off the board earlier, but I think Kelce is a better all-around player with a more physical game in every respect. This gives him more upside than Eifert, but I don't blame those who look at the Chiefs and Bengals offenses in their present forms and opt for the Eifert.
   
• NFL Comparison: I think Jason Witten with a dash of Rob Gronkowski is a good stylistic explanation of what Kelce brings to the table. Witten was an H-Back at Tennessee and he's a rugged player as a blocker and receiver. Witten, Gronkowski, and Kelce all share these traits and if any one of these three tight ends were in New England and wore Gronkowski's number I think may 10 percent of the viewing public would know the difference.

Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati Bengals

• Strengths: A savvy zone receiver who finds open spots in the defense and an athletic pass catcher who can win man-to-man with the ball in the air, Eifert has good speed and will threaten the seams of NFL defenses. He's a solid blocker in the college game with the right techniques and room to grow into a decent NFL tight end at the line of scrimmage. He has enough athleticism to work from a variety of spots as a “move” tight end.
   
• Weaknesses: Eifert needs to get stronger in his core so he can anchor as a drive blocker in the run game and in pass protection. He's a better zone route runner than man-to-man receiver. He has good speed, but he's not Vernon Davis.
   
• 2013 Outlook: Eifert will be the move tight end in Cincinnati and it will mean looks in the slot or on the wing in 12 personnel sets with Jermain
  Photos provided by USA TODAY Sports
  Tags Dynasty Player Articles IDP Players DB DL LB Offensive line PK QB RB TE WR Returners Rookie Keenan Allen Tavon Austin Matt Barkley Giovani Bernard Jon Bostic Jamie Collins Sr Zach Ertz Marquise Goodwin Ryan Griffin D.J. Hayden DeAndre Hopkins Margus Hunt Travis Kelce Star Lotulelei Tyrann Mathieu Latavius Murray Alec Ogletree Alex Okafor Cordarrelle Patterson Xavier Rhodes Sheldon Richardson Geno Smith Kenny Stills Shawn Williams Robert Woods