Nnamdi Asomugha

Asomugha's arrival to Philadelphia didn't result in the dominant defense that Eagles fans had hoped for, but he nonetheless heads into 2012 as one of the league's best corners. The problem is that teams don't often throw his way, and he hasn't gone over the 40-tackle mark since 2006.

Asomugha's outstanding cover ability doesn't translate into big IDP numbers, but he's one of the best corners in the league and should bolster the Philadelphia defense.

Asomugha is widely regarded as one of the top corners in the NFL, but that restricts his fantasy value because teams routinely throw away from his side of the field. Don't let his name cloud your judgment when analyzing the IDP options at defensive back.

Asomugha is so good at pass coverage that opposing teams rarely even throw to the receiver he is assigned to cover. Asomugha is among the best cornerbacks in the game, but the lack of attention from opposing offenses really limits his opportunities to create turnovers and also his fantasy value.

Asomugha's numbers last season were down from his breakout 2006 season, but that has more to do with teams throwing away from him than a decline in play. With DeAngelo Hall added to the Raiders secondary, teams can no longer throw away from Asomugha, so look for Asomugha's interceptions to increase this season.

Big, physical DB who has emerged as a key member of the defense. 50 tackles and 8 interceptions in 2006.

Asomugha is slated to be the starting left cornerback for the Raiders entering the 2006 season. The fourth year corner has yet to intercept a single pass in his career, so he doesn't project as much of an IDP in fantasy. That said, the Oakland defense is focusing almost all of its attention on forcing turnovers this season, so it is possible that Asomugha could suddenly become a threat to pick off passes. He did deflect 14 passes last year, so perhaps the interceptions are coming next. Any fantasy owner who drafts Asomugha better hope that is the case as he offers little else, with only 133 career tackles and one sack to his name. He's a big corner and a former first round pick, so it is too early to write him off. However, it is probably safe to leave him off your draft cheat sheets until he forces you to reconsider.

The converted safety is expected to start the season at Phillip Buchanon's old position alongside Charles Woodson.

Asomugha, who finished with 32 tackles (24 solo) in 2003 in limited playing time, is versatile enough to play either cornerback or safety. With the team having issues with Rod Woodson (knee) and Charles Woodson (contract), Asomugha may see playing time if both Woodsons miss time.