2012 Team Outlook: Philadelphia
QB Michael Vick, PHI (QB - #13) - Solid/Safe Pick
Buoyed by his electric NFL resurrection, Vick was a draft day favorite last preseason. Ummm, yeah. Finished with 3,303 passing yards and used his legs for more. His interceptions also rose dramatically, scoring runs dropped from nine to one. And he got hit, a lot. Still a top 10 option – though you should invest in a backup – Vick could be a value play if any backlash exceeds reality.
QB Nick Foles, PHI (QB - #47) - Dynasty Only
The Eagles spent a day two pick on the 6-foot-5 thrower, but the only QB competition in Philadelphia involves the backup role. More project than finished product, Foles will challenge Mike Kafka, who looked overmatched at times when called in from the bullpen. The drop from Michael Vick to either reserve is steep.
Injury Status: Injured ReserveRB LeSean McCoy, PHI (RB - #3) - Stud (low risk)
Now that's what you call a franchise fantasy running back. The Eagles fed McCoy plenty and the all-purpose threat delivered, generating 100 yards or scoring a touchdown in 15 straight games. Though some offseason talked hinted at lightening his workload, McCoy receptions were actually down last season. The offensive line is suspect, but McCoy is a top 3 option in every format.
RB Bryce Brown, PHI (RB - #81) - Deep-league Only
Kansas State product has gone from seventh-round afterthought to training camp sleeper. Brown's roller coaster of a collegiate career included only three carries last season, but the physical style he brings to Eagles backfield is generating intrigue. Monitor situation in case he takes over backup role behind LeSean McCoy, but for now Brown is also behind Dion Lewis.
RB Dion Lewis, CLE (RB - #82) - Fantasy Handcuff
The 5-foot-7 sparkplug remains LeSean McCoy's backup, though the starter's three-down ability makes it tough for anyone else to receive playing time. Diminutive size could limit touches if ever thrust into starting lineup, but Lewis produced in college, runs with purpose and averaged 4.4 ypc on 23 attempts last season. Draft as McCoy handcuff in later rounds of deep leagues unless offseason arrest proves truly problematic.
RB Stanley Havili, IND - Not Draft Worthy
After spending 2011 on the Eagles practice squad, the former seventh-round pick out of USC enters training camp as the starting fullback. Havili replaces the ineffective Owen Schmitt as the lead blocker for LeSean McCoy. Using Schmitt's seven total touches last season as a guide, Havili has no business being on fantasy rosters.
