Category: American Style Football

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In a recent episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Matt Harmon and The Ringers’ Danny Heifetz discussed some potential surprises awaiting all of us during next week's NFL Draft. Amidst an array of bold predictions, here are some of the highlights.

Who will be the most shocking first-round pick?

As they explored possibilities, Heifetz put forward the idea of the New Orleans Saints taking Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart ninth overall pick. Heifetz emphasized how this move would be a shocker, but one that aligns with the Saints' need for a long-term QB solution given Derek Carr's shoulder injury and uncertain standing with the team.

Another weapon for Sean McVay and Co.

Further adding to the surprise element, Harmon entertained the notion of the Los Angeles Rams trading into the top 10 to select Penn State tight end Tyler Warren. The Rams have previously shown an interest in adding offensive weapons, and Warren could fill a critical tight end role, easing the burden off their wide receivers.

Steelers add QB of the future

Heifetz also shed light on the possibility of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe going in the first round, specifically mentioning the Pittsburgh Steelers. If Aaron Rodgers were to retire, the desperate need for a young quarterback could push the Steelers toward the surprise move.

Broncos add another key piece on offense

Lastly, Harmon and Heifetz discussed the Denver Broncos' potential move for Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty. Under the helm of head coach Sean Payton, the Broncos might pursue Jeanty aggressively — likely needing to trade up from the 20th overall pick — adding another dimension to their offense. 

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

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In a recent episode of the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, Matt Harmon and ESPN's Jordan Reid discussed the potential of SMU running back Brashard Smith and how he could end being the "ultimate weapon," tossing out a comparison that is sure to have fantasy football players excited.

Is Smith this year's Tyrone Tracy Jr.?

Both Smith and Tracy share a unique journey and skill set. Just like Tracy, Smith made a significant position shift that showcased his versatility. Initially a wide receiver at Miami, Smith transitioned to running back in his first year at SMU. This change was reminiscent of Tracy’s own journey from receiver to running back, a move that paid dividends in their collegiate careers — and for those who rostered Tracy during his rookie NFL season.

What makes Smith stand out is his ability to adapt and excel in his new position. According to Reid, Smith looked "completely natural" as a running back. His proficiency in the backfield was complemented by his experience and skill as a receiver, which allows him to be employed in dynamic offensive schemes. This blend of attributes aligns almost perfectly with the playing style that made Tracy such a compelling prospect. From Week 5 through the end of the season, Tracy had seven double-digit fantasy scoring performances, including a high of 22 points in Week 8.

Smith's athletic prowess was further underscored by his standout performance at the combine, where he clocked in remarkable speed, running the 40 in 4.39 seconds. This elite speed, coupled with his versatility, makes him a potent asset. Just as Tracy was an under-the-radar pick, selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Smith also carries the potential to be a Day 3 steal.

In a draft class noted for its depth at the running back position, Smith might not get the same hype but his dual-threat capability is sure to be attractive to teams looking to add a multifaceted backfield presence. With the right fit, Smith could very well follow in Tracy’s footsteps, proving that late-round prospects can be difference-makers in fantasy and reality.

(This article was written with the assistance of Castmagic, an AI tool, and reviewed by our editorial team to ensure accuracy. Please reach out to us if you notice any mistakes.)

Here's a summary of the mild, medium and spicy NFL Draft takes from Yahoo Sports' Nate Tice and Matt Harmon on an episode of the "Football 301" podcast. 

Mild takes 🌶️

Expect 3 RBs to go in Round 1:Ashton Jeanty and Omarion Hampton are the likely candidates, and Harmon suggests that TreVeyon Henderson might sneak into the top 32 due to his desirable traits.

Falcons will focus on one side of the ball: Tice said the Falcons might not select an offensive player in the draft at all, focusing entirely on defense. This was based on the fact that the team sent only defensive coaches to the NFL scouting combine and interviewed only defensive players.

No. 1 tight end will be ... : Tice sees Michigan's Colston Loveland as the first tight end drafted, potentially even higher than expected.

Medium takes 🌶️🌶️

Shedeur Sanders won't be QB2 on Draft Night: Tice says that Sanders would not be the second quarterback selected, suggesting that the NFL might be lower on him than previously anticipated.

"I think there's some buzz about other quarterbacks and just smelling the smoke, you know, seeing where the smoke's going," Tice said. "I want to follow that smoke. 

"And also seeing when, you know, Deion Sanders, who was on the show last week with [Yahoo Sports'] Charles [McDonald], had an interview with Charles, also says, you know, we're comfortable with him maybe not going at the top of the draft. Again, just reading in between the lines here that I think maybe there is a drop with Shedeur and that there's another quarterback that goes above him because I just think there's just precedent there." 

Andrew Wevers via Getty Images

Who is the No. 1 CB? Harmon predicts that a non-Travis Hunter defensive back will go before Michigan's Will Johnson, suggesting that there might be draft shakeups due to pre-draft evaluations like 40-yard dash times. Teams might hold it against the Michigan star that he didn't run the 40 in workouts.

Browns deal for a QB: Matt speculated that the Browns might trade back into the first round for a quarterback, potentially looking at Shedeur Sanders.

Spicy takes 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🔥

Tyreek Hill trade: Harmon's spicy take is that the Miami Dolphins star wideout might be dealt during the draft. He detailed his reasoning that Miami might need to retool its locker room and develop a counterpunch on offense.

Long wait for QB2: Tice predicted only one QB would be taken in the first round, Cam Ward, and that the QB2 won't be selected until the second round.

Big trade move early in Round 1: Harmon suggested that some team might trade into the top 10 for an offensive playmaker, citing Ashton Jeanty as a potential target for such a bold move.

To hear more NFL discussions, tune into "Football 301" on Apple, Spotify or YouTube.