This article is part of our IDP Analysis series.
With fantasy drafts on the horizon, we'll look at some of the players who have either had a change in roles or the potential for a change in value. Some of the players listed will be drafted in most IDP leagues, though others are players we'll be keeping an eye on as the season begins to determine if they're worth elevated status.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Aaron Donald, Rams
Donald's holdout reportedly could last into the regular season. Donald could have a remarkable season playing for new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, but his lack of time learning the defensive scheme and possible lack of conditioning should at least raise concerns with fantasy owners. Ultimately, the choice is between immense upside and the risk that his lack of offseason participation brings.
Dante Fowler, Jaguars
Fowler's in danger of being punished for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy after he was charged with three misdemeanors based on his July arrest in Florida. This isn't his first off-field incident, which increases the chance of league discipline. He's expected to be a key contributor for the Jaguars this year after posting four sacks and 32 tackles last year. Drafting Fowler likely depends on league depth. In shallow leagues, if he's suspended after you draft him, there will be plenty of waiver-wire options with which to replace him. In deep leagues, there will be fewer quality replacements available, which increases his draft risk.
Danny Shelton, Browns
After suffering a knee injury Aug. 18, Shelton was
With fantasy drafts on the horizon, we'll look at some of the players who have either had a change in roles or the potential for a change in value. Some of the players listed will be drafted in most IDP leagues, though others are players we'll be keeping an eye on as the season begins to determine if they're worth elevated status.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Aaron Donald, Rams
Donald's holdout reportedly could last into the regular season. Donald could have a remarkable season playing for new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, but his lack of time learning the defensive scheme and possible lack of conditioning should at least raise concerns with fantasy owners. Ultimately, the choice is between immense upside and the risk that his lack of offseason participation brings.
Dante Fowler, Jaguars
Fowler's in danger of being punished for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy after he was charged with three misdemeanors based on his July arrest in Florida. This isn't his first off-field incident, which increases the chance of league discipline. He's expected to be a key contributor for the Jaguars this year after posting four sacks and 32 tackles last year. Drafting Fowler likely depends on league depth. In shallow leagues, if he's suspended after you draft him, there will be plenty of waiver-wire options with which to replace him. In deep leagues, there will be fewer quality replacements available, which increases his draft risk.
Danny Shelton, Browns
After suffering a knee injury Aug. 18, Shelton was scheduled to miss three to six weeks, and he's in jeopardy of missing time to start the season. For those IDP leagues that have little to no bench spots, it's worth considering leaving him off draft boards until it's clear when he'll return.
LINEBACKER
T.J. Watt, Steelers
J.J.'s brother was named starter at right outside linebacker, which ensures him plenty of playing time. He's definitely an upside pick, as he has the potential to generate pressure, leading to strong sack numbers in addition to steady tackles.
B.J. Goodson, Giants
Goodson's a player to monitor, as he has the potential to carve out a three-down role as the Giants' middle linebacker after hardly seeing the field last year. He will be undrafted in many IDP leagues, but his potential to pile up tackles gives him IDP value, assuming he wins the job.
Jaylon Smith, Cowboys
After missing his rookie season because of a devastating knee injury, Smith made his debut in the Cowboys' second preseason game. It's unclear how much he'll play once the regular season begins, and how effective he will be, but if he flashes early on, he'll be a player to target on the waiver wire.
Manti Te'o, Saints
Te'o's best season resulted in just 82 tackles, and durability is also a question, as he's played 38 of 64 career games. But he's the frontrunner to be the Saints' starting middle linebacker, especially on early downs. He's a risky pick, but there's potential for production on a defense that allows plenty of offensive plays.
Reggie Ragland, Bills
Ragland's not likely going to be much of a fantasy factor, as the Bills view him as a poor fit for their defensive scheme. However, there are whispers that he could be traded. Should he land in a favorable spot, he could quickly become a player to roster.
Zach Orr, Free agent
Orr, who had 133 tackles last season, retired because of a neck injury. He had second thoughts this offseason, though, and pursued a free-agent deal. But the neck injury prevented him from getting cleared, so he retired for what seems to be the last time.
DEFENSIVE BACK
E.J. Gaines, Bills
In the new-look Bills secondary, Gaines has a chance to start at right corner. Should he lock in this role, he could be a solid IDP option. He averaged five tackles per game last year on 55 snaps per game.
Sean Smith, Raiders
The Raiders recently demoted Smith, and then the veteran was charged with assault Aug. 17. Unless something changes regarding his status, he should be avoided in drafts.
Shawn Williams, Bengals
Williams suffered a dislocated elbow during the second preseason game, and he's expected to miss at least two to four weeks, which means there's a significant chance he misses time during the regular season. He broke out last year with 81 tackles and a sack, one he'll be a waiver-wire target once he gets healthy.
