Post-Draft 2019

The 2019 NFL Draft did not fail to entertain. The first 3 picks were set in stone well before the draft with the first real surprise coming at 4 (Clelin Ferrell to the Raiders) and the Giants following soon afterward (Daniel Jones). I think the Redskins undoubtedly had the best first round with the pickups of Dwayne Haskins (a potential fantasy stud) and Montez Sweat, scooping both up well after their projections. The Raiders also did a solid job with the pickups of Ferrell (surprise pick but a high-impact player at Clemson), Josh Jacobs (a potential fantasy stud described later on), and Jonathan Abram. I'm going to go over the specific players with fantasy implications later on in this post, but these were just a few of my initial reactions.

High-Impact Fantasy Rookies 2019 (Ordered by position)

Sooner or later, Dwayne Haskins will be given the keys to the Redskins

1. Dwayne Haskins (QB Redskins) - Other than Kyler, I don't think there's another quarterback with a more direct path to success this season than Haskins. There have been rumors that he's been blowing Case Keenum out of the water and it's only a matter of time before the Redskins are forced to put him in. However, there is no knowing when Haskins will see his first real playing time. I think Haskins can churn out QB1 numbers, but when that will happen is the real question.

Kyler Murray will be the starter from Day 1 and will post startable numbers thanks to his rushing ability

2. Kyler Murray (QB Cardinals) - I don't think there's an easier decision to make than putting Kyler on this list. He's dead accurate, super fast, got a rocket for an arm, and is put in a prime spot to succeed. Kliff Kingsbury will make sure Murray gets all he can handle and more. Volume will not be a problem for Murray, who is almost assured a full year of playing, but counting on early success is a long shot. There is a huge range of possibilities, and top-5 QB is one of them.

Josh Jacobs is ready to become the next superstar running back for the Raiders

3. Josh Jacobs (RB Raiders) - Like Murray, Jacobs is almost guaranteed a full time starting role on his team. Jacobs is fast and powerful and comes from a school known for churning out elite NFL talent. Although his college numbers may not show it, Jacobs was an electric back with fewer miles on him than most first-round running backs. Don't expect Saquon numbers, but I think Jacobs can be counted on as an RB2 with RB1 upside.

Nearly all of Darrell Henderson's value depends on Todd Gurley's knee

4. Darrell Henderson (RB Rams) - This guy probably has the biggest range of potential outcomes of anybody on this list. On one hand, he can ride the bench all year backing up the 2 time RB1 Todd Gurley. But news of Gurley's arthritic knee has been ravaging his draft stock and skyrocketing Henderson's. If Gurley can't consistently get on the field, Henderson's power can propel him into high end RB2 numbers behind a solid offensive line.

N'Keal Harry is ready to become the top outside threat for the powerhouse Patriots offense

5. N'Keal Harry (WR Patriots) - Ignoring my love for the Patriots, I think Harry will be the top rookie receiver and potentially a WR1. He's going to get volume, with Josh Gordon's future uncertain, an almost non-existent tight end corps, and a depleted group of receivers. Harry is a crisp route runner with strong hands, and the Patriots must have seen something in him to take him with their first pick. Oh, and it also helps to have the GOAT throwing to you.

AJ Brown has all the physical tools to thrive next to Cory Davis

6. AJ Brown (WR Titans) - While volume and target accuracy may not be up to par with what Harry will get, Brown will get his share of fantasy points. A solid receiver who was out shadowed by teammate DK Metcalf, Brown will benefit from fellow receiver and former 5th overall pick Corey Davis lining up opposite him. Marcus Mariota is an underrated quarterback who I believe will succeed with the right tools. Expect low-end WR2 numbers.

TJ Hockenson is one of the few rookie tight ends ready to make an impact from Day 1

7. TJ Hockenson (TE Lions) - This pick was easy. Taken 8th overall by a tight end needy team, Hockenson is put in a great spot for success. His speed, size, and hands will get the points, especially in the red zone, but his superior blocking will keep him on the field. Expect solid TE1 numbers in a super unpredictable position.