Melvin Gordon heads list of preseason fantasy sizzlers
Welcome to the Week 1 edition of the fantasy sizzlers and fizzlers. Each Monday during the NFL season, we'll give you a look at players who have seen their fantasy values increase or decrease. For this week, we look at how their values have changed as a result of their performances this preseason.
Sizzlers
RB Melvin Gordon, San Diego Chargers: Several players failed to live up to expectations last season, with Gordon perhaps the best example. After an impressive preseason, he’s poised to put all the negative energy behind him.
RB Thomas Rawls, Seattle Seahawks: Coming off an ankle fracture that derailed his 2015 campaign, Rawls finally got some carries in the final preseason game. Despite Christine Michael pushing him for carries, Rawls looks ready to open as the starter.
RB Jeremy Langford, Chicago Bears: There were some questions early about how the Bears would split carries, but it is now clear Langford will be the centerpiece of the running game.
WR Amari Cooper, Oakland Raiders: The No. 4 overall pick in last year’s draft has looked nothing short of spectacular this preseason. His football awareness is off the charts and he has the size and skills to match.
QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, New York Jets: With contract negotiations finally behind him, Fitzpatrick has all the tools he needs to succeed. He has quality receivers in Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker, along with excellent pass-catching running backs in Matt Forte and Bilal Powell.
Fizzlers
RB Carlos Hyde, San Francisco 49ers: A slow return from the league's concussion protocol has fantasy owners leery of both his short- and long-term prospects.
RB Jamaal Charles, Kansas City Chiefs: Now “iffy” for the opener, there could be heartbreak in the cards for this former fantasy stud. The injury risk is starting to outweigh his potential value.
TE Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati Bengals: After a “minimal procedure” on his ankle in May, his timetable to return has been delayed several times. Don’t expect him back before Week 4.
TE Jimmy Graham, Seattle Seahawks: Graham has not bounced back from his torn patellar tendon in November. He was unable to get on the same page with Russell Wilson last season and his lack of reps will only continue to hamper their chemistry.
Baltimore Ravens RBs: Presumed starter Justin Forsett was released but could be re-signed in time to play Week 1. With Javorious Allen and Terrance West slated to receive carries, it's a crowded group. Louisiana Tech phenom Kenneth Dixon is also waiting in the wings for his opportunity.