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Late Round Suggestions

Aug 27 2008, 07:05 AM

Ravens RB Ray Rice takes a handoff at practice.

Contributed By: Ryan Brooks


Over the past few weeks, I have had several people ask me for a few late round suggestions or guys to keep an eye on later in the draft. So I decided I would put these suggestions in an article so the info goes to good use for those of you who haven’t asked for any help. Please don’t take these suggestions as gospel, but I do think these are guys that have tremendous upside. As you know, it is the late round sleepers that ultimately can determine whether your team is good or great.

1) Chris Perry, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Perry was a bigger sleeper two weeks ago when Rudi still had the starting job, but injuries to Rudi Johnson and rumors of possibly trading Johnson have moved Perry up the draft charts. However, many of you will draft this weekend, so don’t forget to handcuff Rudi with Perry. Rudi can’t stay healthy and Perry has already been seen running with the 1^st team.

2) Ray Rice, RB, Baltimore Ravens
Here is another chance to find gold late in the draft when your opponents are probably drafting kickers. With Willis McGahee coming off minor knee surgery, Rice could possibly start in Week 1, and there are also rumors that McGahee is in the dog house, so don’t be surprised if Rice gets more action than most think. He is playing under Cam Cameron, and we all know the success that he’s had with RBs.

3) Tony Scheffler, TE, Denver Broncos
I like to call him this year’s version of Dallas Clark. I really believe Scheffler will be the main target of Jay Cutler in the red zone, and therefore wouldn’t be surprised if he caught 10 TDs this year. With Brandon Marshall riding pine for three games, Scheffler should get plenty of looks early and often. Wait around and draft him as your TE2 while others are drafting their 3^rd defense.

4) Jason Campbell, QB, Washington Redskins
This is the 3^rd season for Campbell and the light should be fully on for this talented QB. HC Jim Zorn has a history of success with QBs and Campbell should be next on his list. While I’d like to see better WRs in Washington, I still think Chris Cooley and Clinton Portis will draw enough attention that Campbell can win football games for you. Campbell is usually still available as your QB2 or QB3 and I think he will surprise you.

5) Bobby Engram and Deion Branch, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Both of these WRs are injured and will likely miss the first six games of the season, so draft them late and store them away on the bench. But remember both are dynamic receivers and should have a very good second half of the season. You may think you are wasting a roster spot, but these two guys are difference makers.

6) Devard Darling, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Darling goes undrafted in many leagues and I don’t get it. While Dwayne Bowe is drawing double teams, Darling should get lots of man coverage this season, especially since the safeties will be eyeing down Tony Gonzalez. Last season he caught three TDs on just 18 receptions and showed me a glimpse of what could be. If you have room, don’t forget I told you so. But if you think Brodie Croyle stinks and want to leave him alone, I wouldn’t blame you.

7) Jon Kitna, QB, Detroit Lions
I have Kitna ranked as a top-10 QB, while his average draft position says he’s 19^th. What gives? In preseason, Kitna has looked almost perfect. Mike Martz left town and everyone thinks Kitna won’t be able to pass this season. I disagree. Draft Kitna late as your QB2 and you will be happy with him.

8) Jacob Hester, RB, San Diego Chargers
I know what you are thinking . . . what about LT? I have a fear for LT owners that Hester may get some of those goal line carries and, if so, Hester is your man. In college he was a short yardage monster that never fumbled. He has already impressed coaches, so don’t be surprised if he is plunging in from the 1-yard line like Mike Alstott and sending LT owners to reach for the Advil.