2012 Team Outlook: Atlanta
RB Bradie Ewing, ATL - Not Draft Worthy
The Falcons selected Bradie Ewing in the fifth round of the NFL Draft and will use him to fill the void left by fullback Ovie Mughelli, who was released during the offseason. Ewing will be busy creating holes for Michael Turner as a fullback this season, which eliminates any potential fantasy value he may have had as a rookie.
Injury Status: Injured ReserveRB Michael Turner, --- (RB - #26) - Solid/Safe Pick
Michael Turner has rushed for over 1,000 yards in three of the last four seasons and has scored double-digit touchdowns in four consecutive seasons. However, there are legitimate concerns that the heavy workload will start to take its toll. Turner is also 30 years old now and is not a factor in the passing game, which hurts his value in point-per-reception leagues. Turner remains a low-end number one or a solid number two fantasy option, but he is a potential bust candidate with clear warning signs.
WR Julio Jones, ATL (WR - #2) - Stud (low risk)
Julio Jones, Atlanta's highly touted first round pick, displayed a propensity for breaking big plays during his rookie season and is poised for a breakout sophomore campaign. With Pro Bowl wideout Roddy White drawing away defensive attention, the Alabama product will have plenty of opportunities to burn opposing defenses with his blazing speed this season. Jones will be highly sought after in all fantasy leagues this fall.
WR Roddy White, ATL (WR - #7) - Stud (low risk)
One of the top receivers in fantasy football, Roddy White has been a model of consistency over the last five years, recording at least 80 receptions and 1,000 yards over that stretch. With second-year wideout Julio Jones poised for a breakout season, White's numbers could drop slightly, but he remains a stud at the wide receiver position worthy of being one of the top five players at the position taken on draft day.
WR Harry Douglas, ATL (WR - #87) - Deep-league Only
Harry Douglas resigned with Atlanta this offseason after the most productive season of his career in which he caught 39 passes for 498 yards with one touchdown. Douglas is now two years removed from a knee injury that cost him all of the 2009 season, but has yet to truly breakout as many expected. Douglas is a shifty slot receiver, but with Roddy White and Julio Jones ahead of him in the pecking order, targets will be hard to come by this season.
WR Kerry Meier, --- - Low Potential
Kerry Meier was drawing rave reviews during training camp of his rookie year back in 2010, but then suffered a season-ending knee injury during a preseason game. Meier returned last season and played in 12 games last season, but did not record a catch. Atlanta likes what Meier brings to the table, which may make him worth a shot in the deepest of fantasy leagues this season.
