Fantasy Football Search 2010 Bust: Michael Vick

Player: Michael Vick
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Position: QB

Is this one two easy?  Michael Vick has found himself in trouble with the law again and even with the fact that he has been cleared to play in the NFL, I wouldn't touch him.  Vick has all sorts of crazy pressures on him and most don't have anything to do with football.  He will be the primary backup for Kevin Kolb and Kolb could screw up, but does that automatically mean Vick will perform well?  No. 

I'm not down on Vick's abilities or skills.  He's a mess; mentally, financially, legally, and emotionally.  That isn't a guy you want running your fantasy team.  There are plenty of other back ups you could have on your fantasy roster who will perform just as well as Vick would if he ever starts and you don't have to worry about those back ups getting arrested or having mental break downs.

Stay away of Vick. Oh, and I love dogs, so screw you Vick.  You'll never get fantasy love or respect from The True Guru.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Bust: LenDale White

Player: LenDale White
Team: UFA
Position: RB

After four turbulent years with the Tennessee Titans, the former 2nd round pick was traded to the Seattle Seahawks and promptly cut a month later.  LenDale White should be avoided at all times during your fantasy football draft.  It's clear there aren't allot of NFL teams interested in the heavy-set runningback and that should speak volumes as why he shouldn't be on your fantasy roster.

In 2009, White suffered some injures and only managed 13 games and 222 yards.  This was in part because of Chris Johnson and in part cause he was ineffective.  If a team is willing to take a chance on White, he will have to lose weight and get in shape.  Even after that he is at best a goal-line back and at worst a 3rd back on the depth charts. 

I can see some teams like Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, New England, Oakland, Chicago, or St. Louis who might take a chance on White, but it's still a far cry from fantasy stats.  LenDale White is a 2010 bust.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Sleeper: Brandon Jacobs

Player: Brandon Jacobs
Team: New York Giants
Position: RB

Nobody is more disappointed in his 2009 performance than Brandon Jacobs.  After being a second round draft pick in most fantasy drafts, Jacobs put up dismal numbers.  With only 835 rushing yards and five TDs, you might not believe in the hard hitting runningback.  Also throw in the threat of Ahmad Bradshaw and there is even more to worry about.  Let's note first that Jacobs was hurt most of last season and played hurt. He enters the 2010 season healthy and with much more vigor then he did in 2009.  The Giants plan to use their two back tandem more effectively and with a healthy Jacobs pound it in at the goal line. 

Also, Jacobs with have a more experienced offensive line and a far more gelled passing game to support him against rival defenses.  Jacobs will emerge this year as the top running back in the NFC East.  As long as he stays healthy, he should put up excellent numbers for the NY Giants and get back to the dominance we all saw in 2008.

2010 Projections: 1254 total yards, 22 receptions, 14 Total TDs.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Sleeper: Ryan Mathews

Player: Ryan Mathews
Team: San Diego Chargers
Position: RB

One of the more hyped players coming out of the draft was none other then Ryan Mathews.  Draft by the Chargers 12th overall, Mathews is the heir apparent to LT.  I've rarely been impressed with runningbacks coming out of the WAC and Mathews has allot to prove, but in the Chargers system he should put up plenty of numbers for a rookie RB. 

It's important to remember that the Chargers are pass first.  With that being said, the Chargers are looking to establish a running game and Mathews is an every down back and compliments Darren Sproles as an excellent one-two punch.  At 6'0" and 220 pounds, Mathews is not only elusive, but powerful.  If he remains healthy and confident in his skills he will put up rookie of the year numbers.

Expect the Chargers to use their new franchise runningback early and often and I would doubt him being used in the passing game as well, especially early with Vincent Jackson on suspension.

2010 Projections: 1414 total yards, 36 receptions, 9 Total TDs.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Sleeper: Mark Sanchez

Player: Mark Sanchez
Team: New York Jets
Position: QB

If you haven't had the chance to see Mark Sanchez play, please do.  As a rookie last season, Sanchez showed flashes of brilliance and rookie mistakes.  IN his Sophomore season look for him to rise above many veteran quarterbacks and put up incredible numbers.  Coming from USC I believe that Sanchez has already had more primetime pressure filled experience then many QBs in the same class.

Last year he lead the Jets to the AFC championship and in 2010 expect him to be in the Superbowl.  Sanchez has a talented group of wide receivers with Braylon Edwards, Santonio Holmes, and Jerricho Cotchery.  He also has one of the better pass catching RBs in LaDainian Tomlinson and fearless Ironman look-a-like Dustin Keller at tight end.  Add that all together and it's a receipt for massive fantasy points.

In 2009, Sanchez had 12 TDs and 20 INTs.  Look for that to flip in 2010.

2010 Projections: 3120 yards, 21 TDs, 3 Rushing TDs.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Sleeper: Kevin Kolb

Player: Kevin Kolb
Team: Philadelphia Eagles
Position: QB

With the trading of Donovan McNabb, so starts the Kevin Kolb ERA in Philadelphia.  Let's be honest, the guy has only thrown 130 passes in his short NFL career.  That being said, the Eagles wouldn't have traded McNabb if they weren't confident in what Kolb could do.  In a small sampling, we've seen what he can do.  In two starts last season, Kolb threw for over 700 yards and four TDs.  With a young and talented group of young players around him, the Eagles offense has not only reinvented itself, but has been built for years of service.  Kolb will have hotshot wide receivers DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin to throw too, along with one of the better tight ends in the league Brent Celek.  He will have a speedy pass-catching running back in the backfield LeSean McCoy and a filthy offensive line lead by Stacy Andrews.

Kolb will have bad games, that I do not doubt, but in the end he will put up massive numbers and with a fast moving defense he will be on the field quite a bit.  Wether or not the Eagles win, Kolb will put up excellent numbers, even in garbage time.  I suspect the Eagles will win 10+ games, so that shouldn't be the issue.

2010 Projections: 3425 yards, 23 TDs, 2 Rushing TDs.

Fantasy Football Search 2010 Sleeper: Shonn Greene

Player: Shonn Greene
Team: New York Jets
Position: RB

Clearly the big news in the off-season was the Jets signing of veteran fantasy stud LaDainian Tomlinson.  To many in the industry this showed a lack of confidence that the Jets had in Shonne Green.  It has also been observed that it would take away from Green's fantasy potential.  I think completely different.  First off, nearly every team is going with a two running back system.  It's good for the team and keeping your running backs healthy.  Last season the Jets had Thomas Jones, so they let Jones go and picked up nine year veteran LaDainian Tomlinson.   

In 2009, Greene was impressive in limited action.  The Jets gave him more carries near the end of the season, giving Greene 10 or more carries in four of the last six games.  Greene also broke out during the playoffs, gaining 304 yards and two TDs in three games.  Greene showed he is ready for prime time and he will have a breakout 2010.  in 2009, Greene carried the ball just 108 times.  Look for Green to easily get 200 carries and if he comes out of the gate strong, expect LaDainian Tomlinson to be a change of pace and third down back.

2010 Projections: 1100 yards, 10 TDs.

The True Guru's 2010 Sleepers & Busts Released!

Check them out here and all of our draft kit!
http://www.fantasyfootballsearch.com/2010_draft_kit.asp

2010 IDP Draft Rankings - Defensive Backs (Redraft)

Here are my IDP Defensive Back Rankings for Redraft Leagues. I will continually update these rankings throughout the offseason to reflect changes in free agency, defensive schemes, defensive playing time, rookie draft selections, etc.

I would also love to get feedback from my readers. Often times, we get stuck in our own philosophies and tendencies. So, it's nice to get a different perspective on things. Your comments will definitely influence my rankings.


Drafting Philosophy:
Defensive backs have the most variability in point production from year-to-year. In other words, your top 20 defensive backs in 2010 could be quite different from your top 20 defensive backs in 2009 (especially in "big play leagues").

Much of this variability is because, many times, a defensive back's production is heavily tied to the performance of that specific team's front seven. Their production is also heavily tied to how they are used in the defensive scheme (especially safeties). For example, Roman Harper started off the 2009 season very well. However, after both of New Orleans' cornerbacks got injured, they started playing Harper in coverage more as opposed to bringing him up close to the line of scrimmage to stop the run. Consequently, his tackle numbers severely dipped.

In addition, the defensive back position, more than any other position has the most substantial amount of fantasy producers on the waiver wire because many unexpected fantasy performers emerge from the defensive back position throughout the season (e.g. Bernard Pollard).

With this being said, I find it hard to use one of my first defensive picks on a defensive back. In reality, there aren't many "locks" at that this position as there are at the linebacker position (e.g. Patrick Willis, Jon Beason, London Fletcher, etc.). Therefore, I usually try to grab a solid veteran fantasy producer like LCB Antoine Winfield or SS Brian Dawkins and get riskier at this position with my other picks. Not only does this free me up to use higher draft picks on other defensive positions, but it also allows me to more easily drop players during the season to pick up potential defensive back studs off of the waiver wire.

And in case you didn't love Brett Favre enough, here is a short little video clip: Brett Favre Doing His Rendition of "Pants on the Ground."

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Scoring System: Solo Tackle = 2 points Assist = 1 point Sack = 7 points Interception = 12 points Fumble Recovery = 5 points

Key: DSC = Possible Defensive Scheme Change S = Sleeper/Undervalued Player B = Bust/Overvalued Player R = Injury Risk ROOKIE = 2010 NFL Rookie

Tier 1

1. FS Eric Weddle (SD) - Weddle was the number one defensive back on most fantasy rankings heading into the 2009 season. His fantasy numbers took a hit this year because of lingering injury issues. Heading into next season injury-free, he should be able to rebound next year and reclaim his spot as the top fantasy defensive back. R

2. SS Bernard Pollard (HOU) - What a story this is; after being cut by the Chiefs before the season started, Pollard signed with the Texans in Week 4 and wasted no time in becoming a fantasy stud. In 14 games, Pollard had 82 solo tackles, 19 assists, 3 FRs, 4 INTs, 1.5 sacks, and 2 defensive TDs. I wouldn't expect 2 defensive TDs again, but Pollard does provide the ultimate mix of dependable tackling and big play production.

3. SS Tyvon Branch (OAK) - Branch had a very nice tackling year by registering 97 solo tackles and 26 assists and is a top 5 safety in tackling-heavy leagues. Most of his value resides in the fact that he plays in the SS position in Oakland which has proven to be a very lucrative position in the past (e.g. Gibril Wilson). As long as Branch can hold off second round draft pick, Mike Mitchell, he's worth an early round selection.

4. SS Yeremiah Bell (MIA) - Over the last two seasons, Bell has averaged over 95 solo tackles; it doesn't get much better than that for a defensive back. Bell is often times brought up close to the line of scrimmage for run support and is therefore used in a similar fashion to that of a linebacker. Bell is one of the safest choices at the defensive back position. You can expect 90+ solo tackles again next season.

5. FS Oshiomogho Atogwe (STL) - Atogwe is one of the best ballhawks in the league. He always seems to be around the ball and, consequently, he does a wonderful job of producing big plays as well as solid tackle numbers. Playing on the Rams is an added bonus since their defense is consistently on the field for much of the game. Atogwe should remain in St. Louis and, now that he's healthy, return to top 5 form.

6. SS Brian Dawkins (DEN) - Yes, Dawkins is old as dirt (36 to be exact). However, you will be hard-pressed to find a more consistent fantasy defensive back. Over his nine seasons in the league, Dawkins has consistently been a top 20 performer and his move to Denver has obviously taken his value to another level. I wouldn't expect 95 solo tackles again (a career high) but, as long as he doesn't retire, Dawkins looks to be a solid play heading into next season.

Tier 2

7. SS Roman Harper (NO) - Harper started off the season extremely hot. He was consistently putting up 7-9 total tackles per week. However, because of injuries at both cornerback positions, New Orleans stopped putting Harper in the box and used him more in coverage. This hurt his overall 2009 numbers (they were still solid). With the cornerbacks healthy again, look for Harper to further improve upon his 2009 numbers.

8. FS Dashon Goldson (SF) - Goldson got the opportunity to become an every game starter this season and he ran with it. I really like this kid. He gives you a good combination of tackles (95 total tackles) and big plays (4 INTs and 3 sacks). Under defensive-minded head coach Mike Singeltary, Goldson is only going to get better. S

9. FS Louis Delmas (DET) - Delmas, in my opinion, will come into the 2010 draft, being slightly overvalued. Yes, he was the 4th leading scorer for defensive backs in my scoring system. However, those numbers are highly inflated to due to two defensive touchdowns and a safety. When looking purely at his tackle numbers, he had 64 solos tackles and 29 assists and only 2 INTs which are decent, but not fantastic numbers. I look for Delmas to improve upon his tackle numbers next season but at the expense of his big play production. B

Tier 3

10. LCB Charles Woodson (GB) - I typically don't like drafting "big play" cornerbacks like Woodson because their production often times varies from year-to-year. However, Woodson is a rarity, in that he has shown that he can come up with big plays year in and year out. In addition, he had 71 solo tackles last year which is great for a cornerback. Although, I wouldn't expect the same level of tackle production next year, Woodson deserves to be a top 15 pick.

11. FS Antoine Bethea (IND) - Bethea has managed to string together two top 20 seasons in a row from his free safety position. Much of the attention in Indy goes to the oft-injured SS Bob Sanders. However, Bethea is the true fantasy star of the Colts secondary. Look for Bethea to continue his trend of top 20 finishes in 2010.

12. LCB Antoine Winfield (MIN) - Winfield's perceived value will probably take a slight hit heading into the 2010 draft because his overall 2009 stats were below average due to injury problems. In my opinion, Winfield is the best tackling cornerback in the league and he plays in a defensive scheme that uses some Tampa-2, which gives Winfield above average tackle opportunities. With this being said, Winfield, when healthy, is a low DB1/high DB2. S, R

13. LCB Charles Tillman (CHI) - Tillman's production dropped substantially in 2009 in large part due to reoccurring injuries. Tillman is one of the top 5 tackling fantasy cornerbacks and he also provides decent big play upside. If he can stay healthy, he remains a top 15 selection for defensive backs. R

14. SS Troy Polamalu (PIT) - Polamalu is overrated in the same way as SS Bob Sanders. He's a fantastic NFL player in real life but when it comes to fantasy football, he's more of a tier 3 type of player. "Mr. Head and Shoulders" does have a knack for finding the ball, however, and has top 15 value if he can manage to stay healthy for a full season. With all this in mind, don't be fooled by the big name and reach for Polamalu too early though (i.e. Tier 1 or Tier 2). B, R

15. SS Adrian Wilson (ARI) - I remember the days when Adrian Wilson was the best DB since sliced bread (circa 2004-2006). His disappointing 2007 and 2008 seasons left Wilson undrafted in many IDP leagues in 2009. However, under new defensive coordinator Bill Davis' aggressive defensive scheme, Wilson has had a resurgence. I like Wilson's big play upside along with his run-stopping ability. Consequently, I have Wilson reentering the top 20. Welcome back!

16. SS Eric Berry (KC) - Look for Berry to immediately jump into the starting lineup for the Chiefs. He will start at SS opposite Jarrad Page at FS. Mike Brown put up nice fantasy numbers as the starting SS in KC last season. With this being said, I look for Berry to have a very solid rookie season. It's always hard to predict safety performance, but I'm expecting high DB2 and even low DB1 upside. ROOKIE

Tier 4

17. RCB Richard Marshall (CAR) - Marshall, along with Charles Tillman and Antoine Winfield, is one of the top 5 tackling cornerbacks in the league. In all four years in the league, Marshall has had 68 solo tackles or more and usually throws in a couple of sacks and a couple of INTs. He has a fairly significant chance of being a top 25 performer every year. However, he is a free agent and much of his value resides in the fact that Carolina uses the Tampa-2 defensive scheme quite a bit. If he goes to another team, he will more than likely fall out of the top 30.

18. SS Erik Coleman (ATL) - If you're in a tackle-heavy league, Coleman is one of the better options you have at this position. In 2009, he registered 116 total tackles. In fact Coleman has had 100 total tackles or more in 5 out of his 6 seasons in the NFL. On the down side, he doesn't generate many big-plays. S

19. SS Kenny Phillips (NYG) - Phillips entered the 2009 season on many IDP sleeper lists and was performing well until he went down with a season-ending knee injury in week 2.  Backup safety, C.C. Brown, had some monster games in Phillips' absence (back-to-back double digit solo games in week 6 and 7), granted much of that production was due to Brown having absolutely no cover skills. If Phillips can fully recover from his 2009 injury, he should have good value moving into the 2010 season. DSC, R, S

20. SS LaRon Landry (WASH) - Landry made significant strides last season in becoming a top 30 defensive back. He managed to post a career high in solo tackles with 76 and he missed the last game of the season. I expect the former sixth overall pick to make further strides in 2010 and crack the top 25. DSC, S April 25 Update: The Redskins have said that they are going to move Landry to strong safety and utilize him similar to a linebacker by bringing him up in the box to stop the run. This will help improve Landry's value and I think this makes him a good value pick in 2010.

Tier 5

21. SS Brandon Meriweather (NE) - Although Meriweather finished within the top 15 DBs for points scored, almost 1/4 points came in one game. With this being said, I really don't think Meriweather is a top 20 defensive back. However, he doesn't have a ton of competition for tackles in New England and he's young and still learning, so he remains in the top 25. B

22. FS Antrel Rolle (NYG) - Rolle's signing with the Giants actually helps his value. The safety positions in New York proved to be a fruitful place fantasy-wise. Combine this fact with Rolle's playmaking ability and you have a pretty good fantasy free safety. I can see Rolle putting up 70-75 solos, 15 or so assists, and 4 or 5 interceptions. This makes him a low DB2/high DB3.

23. FS Dawan Landry (BALT) - Landry was used more in stopping the run this year than in previous years and his tackle numbers reflected this fact. Landry had 100 total tackles and he threw in 5 INTs. I expect some subsidence of his tackle numbers but not enough to bump him out of the top 20. In addition, the Jets have shown some offseason interest in obtaining Landry; going to the Jets could improve his value even further.

24. SS Tanard Jackson (TB) - Jackson filled in very well for the injured Jermaine Phillips by posting 60 solo tackles, 11 assists, and 5 INTs in 12 games. It looks as though Jackson may enter the 2010 season as the Bucs starting SS since Jermaine Phillips is likely to be let go due to injury and off-the-field problems. If this is the case, Jackson could be a nice low DB2/high DB3.

25. FS Darren Sharper (NO) - Many readers may be wondering why I have the #3 2009 point scorer for DBs listed so low: his numbers were significantly inflated. Sharper had 4 defensive touchdowns in 2009 and 9 interceptions. You take away those 4 defensive touchdowns and Sharper falls back to a mid-level option at best. And I'm willing to bet my left nut that he doesn't have 4 defensive TDs again next year. OK, maybe not my nut. But, you get the point. B

26. RCB Cortland Finnegan (TEN) - Finnegan, similar to teammate Nick Harper, is a cornerback at which many opposing QBs love to throw at. Consequently, Finnegan typically has above average tackle and interception opportunities. For the second straight season, Finnegan had 5 INTs. For these reasons, Finnegan makes it into the top 30.

27. FS Earl Thomas (SEA) - The Seahawks are moving free safety Jonathan Babineaux to strong safety so that Thomas can play free safety. Thomas possesses great speed and cover skills which should allow him to make quite a few big plays as a rookie. I expect the Seahawks to use Thomas in a variety of ways next season including bringing him up to the line to stop the run. I think this is a great place for Thomas and see solid DB2 production out of him next season. ROOKIE

28. SS Quintin Mikell (PHI) - I've never been a huge fan of Mikell's. It seems as though every week in which I pick him up, he burns me. However, over the course of a full season his numbers tend to average out. In fact, in each of the last two seasons, Mikell has finished with top 30 numbers and he set a career high for total tackles last season with 97. He's usually a dependable DB3.

29. SS Chris Hope (TEN) - Hope is one of the more consistent defensive backs in the league. He doesn't have a very high point ceiling but he is usually good for 75-90 solo tackles and 3 or 4 interceptions which, in a typical year, would place him around the outskirts of the top 30 defensive back point producers. If you are risk-averse, Hope is probably a good selection for you.

Tier 6

30. SS Danieal Manning (CHI) - The safety situation in Chicago is quite tumultuous right now. However, Manning has been taking 1st team reps at SS during OTAs with Chris Harris taking 1st team reps at FS. The strong safety position in Chicago is the safety position of most value. If Manning can hold onto the starting SS gig, he could prove to be fairly valuable.

For the rest of the defensive linemen rankings (31-50) and much more IDP information, visit The IDP Guru, your one-stop shop for all things IDP!

Last Updated: July 11, 2010

2010 IDP Draft Rankings - Linebackers (Redraft)

Here are my IDP Linebacker Rankings for Redraft Leagues. I will continually update these rankings throughout the off-season to reflect changes in free agency, defensive schemes, defensive playing time, rookie draft selections, etc.

I would also love to get feedback from my readers. Often times, we get stuck in our own philosophies and tendencies. So, it's nice to get a different perspective on things. Your comments will definitely influence my rankings.


Drafting Philosophy:
Linebackers are undoubtedly the staples of a fantasy defense. However, I believe many owners often times misjudge value at this position. If you aren't able to grab a "Tier 1" or "Tier 2" linebacker, then I would wait on drafting a linebacker until the later rounds. In my scoring system, the difference between the 2nd leading point scorer for linebackers, Jon Beason, and the next highest scoring linebacker, James Laurinaitis, was 51 points. Conversely, only 51 points separated Laurinaitis from the 25th ranked linebacker Dhani Jones. This stat shows that after the 1st two tiers of linebackers, the fantasy production is very similar. Hence, why my "Tier 3" is so large.

In addition, IDP studs always emerge at the linebacker position during the early part of the season (e.g. David Hawthorne, Brian Cushing, Clint Session, Stephen Tulloch, etc.).With this being said, I sometimes like to have a player at linebacker who I feel is expendable in order to pick up a potential linebacker stud off of the waiver wire during the season.

This clip just shows you that even the most calm and collected QB in the NFL loses his cool once in a while: Peyton Manning Goes Off on Saturdays Too

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Scoring System: Solo Tackle = 2 points Assist = 1 point Sack = 7 points Interception = 12 points Fumble Recovery = 5 points

Key: DSC = Possible Defensive Scheme Change S = Sleeper/Undervalued Player B = Bust/Overvalued Player R = Injury Risk ROOKIE = 2010 NFL Rookie

Tier 1

1. RILB Patrick Willis (SF) - Willis is the obvious number one linebacker heading into the 2010 season. In his first three seasons in the league, he has averaged 120 solo tackles, 36 assists, and 3 sacks. You won't find a more consistent and reliable linebacker then Pat.

2. MLB Jon Beason (CAR) – For some reason, some IDP owners have lost a little faith in Beason. I haven't at all. He played most of the season injured and he still registered career highs in total tackles, sacks, and INTs with 142 total tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 INTs. He's the best fantasy linebacker not named "Patrick Willis."

Tier 2

3. MLB Paul Posluszny (BUF) – Admittedly, I have a bit of a man-crush on "Pos." Who could resist those long blond locks? Joking aside, Posluszny was a beast this season. In my scoring system, he averaged 20 points per game which made him the fifth highest scoring linebacker by average. He only played 12 games this season due to an injury in Week 1. If you extrapolate his numbers out to a full season, he would have had 116 solo tackles, 30 assists, and 4 INTs. He has all the intangibles to make for a great fantasy linebacker; he plays on a bad defense, he doesn't have a ton of competition in the front seven for tackles, and he has a non-stop motor. If he can stay healthy, I foresee Paul being a top five linebacker next year. DSC, S, R February 10 Update: The Bills switch to a 3-4 system won't really affect Pos's value much. He's actually a pretty good fit for this type of defense as he is a big enough linebacker to fend off opposing offensive guards.

4. MLB James Laurinaitis (STL) – I was really big on Laurinaitis coming into the 2009 season. He plays in a position in St. Louis that has proven to be very fruitful for fantasy owners over the last several seasons. Will Witherspoon, a mediocre fantasy player in my opinion, put up solid fantasy numbers there for years. Laurinaitis is much more talented than Witherspoon and it showed this season. With a full year under his belt in the NFL, Laurinaitis should be able to improve upon his top 6 2009 numbers.

5. RILB D’Qwell Jackson (CLE) – As far as pure tackling production is concerned, Jackson is about as good as they get. Not only does he compile a massive amount of solo tackles, he compiles a ton of assists as well. If he hadn’t gotten hurt early in the season this year, he could have finished as the #1 or #2 overall LB in a tackle-heavy league. Jackson is a free agent this year, but the Browns will more than likely resign him. If they do, don’t hesitate to grab him somewhat early in your 2010 fantasy draft, especially if you're in a tackle-heavy league.

6. MLB Barrett Ruud (TB) – I personally think Ruud is a tad overrated. However, over the last three years, he has proven to be one of the most consistent fantasy linebackers in the league by averaging 131 total tackles per year. When drafting linebackers early, I look for reliability and consistency and this is what Ruud brings.

7. MLB Curtis Lofton (ATL) - I don't have Lofton ranked as high as others do because he showed some signs of wearing down over the last four games of the season. Lofton started the season out hot and was a top five linebacker. However, he finished as the 16th best linebacker in my scoring system. I like that he is a 4-3 MLB because they tend to produce the most consistent fantasy results and Lofton is still young and last year was his first year as the leader of the defense. With this being said, he should be able to improve upon his 2009 totals and be a top 8 linebacker next season. B

8. RILB David Harris (NYJ) – Many fantasy owners were slightly disappointed in Harris’ production this year and I can’t figure out why. He had 131 total tackles and 5.5 sacks (both career highs). His production did slightly fall off towards the end of the season, but he was playing through an injury. He still finished as a top eight linebacker in my scoring system and should thrive under the tutelage of defensive mastermind Rex Ryan.

Tier 3

9. MLB Rolando McClain (OAK) – I really couldn't have imagined a much better place for McClain to land in the draft as far as fantasy purposes are concerned. The MLB position in Oakland is fantasy gold and McClain is an elite level ILB. I don't think it's unreasonable to expect McClain to put up similar numbers to those of Patrick Willis in 2007 rookie year. McClain is a better fit for a 3-4 defense, however, the Raiders draft selections and off-season signings signal that they are going to be switching from a 4-3 defense to a 3-4 defense or, at the very least, using multiple fronts. This will help speed up McClain's production. ROOKIE

10. RILB D.J. Williams (DEN) – Many IDP websites project Williams as a low LB1/high LB2 and I agree with this projection. Williams finished as the 10th best linebacker in my scoring system and he was a very consistent point scorer throughout the year. However, Williams doesn't produce a ton of big plays. Essentially, he is slightly more productive version of Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo.

11. RILB Karlos Dansby (MIA) – Dansby was, week in and week out, an extremely consistent point scorer in 2009. He didn’t have many huge games, but he didn’t have any games that killed his owners either. Dansby is a free agent heading into the 2010 season and rumors are that he may sign with another team. I really don't think this will hurt Dansby's value much. He has played in many different defensive schemes throughout his career and, therefore, he should have a short learning curve on a new team. March 5 Update: Dolphins signed ILB Karlos Dansby to a five-year, $43 million contract, including $22 million guaranteed. I believe this is good news for Dansby owners. He goes to Miami where there will be little competition for tackles. Therefore, he moved up in my rankings from #17 to #11.

12. MLB DeMeco Ryans (HOU) – I think Ryans will give owners a lot of value in 2010. He was a bit inconsistent this season and consequently some owners have lost faith in him. However, the fact remains, he actually improved upon his 2008 fantasy production by putting up 93 solo tackles and 30 assists. Ryans could be a nice middle-to-late round steal. S May 17 Update: The suspension of SLB Brian Cushing should further improve Ryans' 2010 fantasy value. He will have little competition for tackles and should see a small spike in his projected fantasy production. I'm bumping his redraft ranking up to #12 from #15.

13. MLB Kirk Morrison (JAX) – Morrison is perhaps the most underrated fantasy linebacker in the NFL. He’s finished with more than 90 solo tackles in each of the five years he’s been in the league. However, he is a free agent this year and the majority of his value resides in the fact that he plays on the Raiders defense, which has made relative unknown middle linebackers, like Greg Biekert, into fantasy studs. If he resigns with the Raiders, he will remain a top 10 linebacker. But if he signs with another team, his fantasy value will take a serious hit. April 25 Update: Jaguars acquired MLB Kirk Morrison from the Raiders in exchange for the No. 108 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Jacksonville was seeking an inside linebacker, and was believed to be heavily interested in Rolando McClain before Oakland surprised the world with a sensible pick and drafted him eighth overall. Morrison, 28, isn't a true thumper, but is annually among the most productive linebackers in the league and has proven incredibly durable. Morrison's value takes a slight hit (from #9 to #13) since Jacksonville doesn't present as many opportunities as Oakland does. This ranking is assuming Morrison will be a three-down linebacker. If he comes out in nickel packages, his value will drop further.

14. LILB Ray Lewis (BAL) – Along the same lines at LFB, I really don’t care that Lewis will be 35 entering into the 2010 season. Did you see this guy in the playoffs this year? He looks like he’s 25. I’ve owned Lewis numerous times in my ten years as an owner in IDP leagues and he’s never let me down. Lewis may fall in next year's draft because of his age. If he does, he could be a great middle-round value.

15. MLB London Fletcher-Baker (WAS) – Say what you want about LFB; I love the guy. For eight seasons in a row, he’s finished with over 90 solo tackles and 25 assists. You don't get any more consistent than that. The fact that he will be 35 next season doesn’t bother me much at all. Hell, he was 34 last year and he had 142 total tackles. How much difference could one year make? DSC March 26 Update: It looks as though the Redskins are moving to a 3-4 defense next season under new defensive coordinator Jim Haslett. I don't see this effecting LFB's value too much. He is a smaller linebacker and may have a little trouble shedding blocks but his numbers should remain consistent with what they have been in years past.

16. RILB Jerod Mayo (NE) – Mayo is one of the most consistent fantasy producers in the league and although he doesn’t have a very high point ceiling, he doesn’t have a very low floor either. There isn't much competition in New England's front seven for tackles, so Mayo's production should remain relatively constant. He's a fairly safe bet for 95-100 solo tackles. If you’re looking for a pick with little risk, Mayo is a great option.

17. WLB Lance Briggs (CHI) – Briggs has been outperforming Brian “Big Name” Urlacher for years, as far as fantasy production is concerned. Over the last six years, Briggs has averaged 94 solo tackles and 22 assists. With Urlacher injured and another year slower, Briggs should remain the solid IDP producer he has been for the last several years.

18. MLB Jonathan Vilma (NO) – VILMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thought Vilma had a pretty good year considering the New Orleans defense wasn’t on the field a ton this year and, when they were, teams were usually passing to play catch-up. Vilma doesn’t have much competition for tackles in New Orleans and will therefore remain a solid linebacker next year.

19. MLB Stephen Tulloch (TEN) – Tulloch had a fantastic year and if these rankings were based purely on last year’s production, he would be a top 15-20 linebacker. However, Tulloch is a restricted free agent and it remains to be seen what type of tender the Titans will place on him. Last year, Tulloch wasn’t an every-down linebacker (he came out in the nickel package) and if he goes to a team with less tackle opportunities; his numbers may take a substantial hit. S March 26 Update: The Titans have assigned a first-round tender to Tulloch, which means he will remain a Titan next season. This is great news for Tulloch owners as he figures to be an every-down linebacker in the middle of the Tennessee defense. In addition, with Keith Bullock gone, he could very well see an increase in tackles from last year. Consequently, I have moved him up in my rankings from #22 to #19.

Tier 4

20. MLB Stewart Bradley (PHI) – Coming into the 2009 season, I was very high on Bradley. In 2008, he showed flashes of brilliant defensive play and with SS Brian Dawkins signing with the Broncos last season, Bradley is in line to become the leader of the defense. I look for him to come back from his injury and put up solid LB2-LB3 numbers. S, R

21. WLB Clint Session (IND) - Session could prove to be a great value pick next year. Before he went down with an injury in Week 15, he was a top 10 linebacker. Even though I don't think he will return to top 10 status next year, I still think Session is a top 25 linebacker. Indy plays a lot of Cover 2 which bodes well for Session at his WLB position. In addition, that position has proven to be a lucrative one for fantasy players in Indy (e.g. David Thornton, Mike Peterson). S

22. MLB DeAndre Levy (DET) – Lions defensive coordinator has announced that he wants Levy to be the starting MLB for the 2010 season. This is great news for Levy owners. DeAndre has been on the watch lists of many IDP owners since he was drafted with the 2nd pick in the 3rd round of last year's draft. He has the skills to be a solid NFL middle linebacker and will get plenty of tackle opportunities in Detroit. It may take him a few games to get used to playing the position. However, I still expect 85-95 solos out of him next season.  S

23. SLB Brian Cushing (HOU) – I was a bit skeptical of Cushing early in the season because of the historical lack of fantasy production from strong side linebackers. However, Cushing ended up having a fantastic year and his fantasy production actually improved as the year progressed. I still remain a little leery of Cushing because his fantasy numbers were inflated due to a number of big plays and his tackling production was a bit shaky; he had five games with three solos or fewer and nine games with five solos or fewer. Cushing may be slightly overvalued in 2010 but still remains a top 12 linebacker. B May 19 Update: Cushing has been suspended 4 games for testing positive for HCG. This hurts his value quite a bit in redraft leagues since he is missing over 1/4 of the season (in most fantasy football leagues). Consequently, his ranking has dropped from #10 to #23. This ranking is assuming your league either a) has a bench or b) has an IR spot available for players that are suspended. If you have to sit on a zero for four weeks, I wouldn't even bother drafting Cushing in redraft leagues.

24. LOLB LaMarr Woodley (PIT) – I tend to shy away from players who rely heavily on big plays (e.g. sacks). However, Woodley was an absolute stud the last eight weeks of the season. During this span, he registered 11.5 sacks. Admittedly, this is a high risk/reward pick. Next year, Woodley could end up with numbers similar to James Harrison’s 2008 campaign or Harrison could rebound and take away from Woodley’s numbers.

Tier 5

25. RILB Nick Barnett (GB) – Barnett rebounded nicely from his season-ending knee injury in 2008. Over his seven years in the league, Barnett has proven to be one of the more consistent tackling linebackers in the league by averaging 86 solo tackles and 34 assists. Look for him to continue to perform well in Dom Capers' 3-4 defensive system.

26. SLB Chad Greenway (MIN) – Greenway, along with Brian Cushing, are oddities in the IDP world because of their solid production out of the SLB position. Greenway finished as the 23rd ranked linebacker in my scoring system by registering 99 total tackles, 3 fumble recoveries, and 3 interceptions. With E.J. Henderson slowed down somewhat because of injury, Greenway may have a slight uptake in production next year.

27. MLB Gary Brackett (IND) – Brackett has been one of fantasy football’s best kept secrets the last few years and although he doesn't have much big play upside, when healthy, Brackett is capable of putting of solid low LB2/high LB3 numbers in a tackle-heavy league. The emergence of Clint Session doesn't bother me much because there are enough tackles to go around for two solid tackling linebackers on the Colts defense. S March 5 Update: The Colts re-signed Mr. Brackett to a long-term deal and therefore he should continue to put up similar numbers to his previous years. He remains a solid low LB2/high LB3.

28. MLB Lofa Tatupu (SEA) –With the sudden emergence of David Hawthorne and the drafting of Aaron Curry, many people are starting to forget about Lofa Tatupu, which could be a mistake. The Seahawks gave Tatupu a six-year, $42 million contract extension and he will remain the leader and focal point of the defense. He managed over 100 total tackles in three of his first four seasons in the league. He was injured for pretty much the whole 2009 season but should return completely healthy in 2010. The Seahawks are contemplating moving to a 3-4 defense to get David Hawthorne on the field more. Even if they use more 3-4 packages, Tatupu will still be an every-down linebacker. Consequently, at this point in time, I can't justify having a one-year performer like Hawthorne ranked higher than a proven reliable fantasy linebacker like Lofa. DSC, R

29. ROLB James Harrison (PIT) – The one stat that concerns me about Harrison is that he only registered two sacks in the final nine games of the season. On the other hand, he did have eight sacks in his first seven games. Even though I believe the LaMarr Woodley has now become THE sack guy in Pittsburgh, I also believe that there are enough sacks to feed Harrison as well. In addition, Harrison tends to generate a decent amount of tackles for a big-play linebacker (he's averaged 93 total tackles over the last three seasons) and even though he had an off-year, he still finished in the top 30 linebackers in my scoring system. B

30. WLB Michael Boley (NYG) - If you look at Boley's 2009 stat line (66 solo tackles, 19 assists, and 2 sacks), you may be disappointed. However, Boley missed 5 games due to injury. If you extrapolate these numbers over 16 games, he would have finished with 96 solo tackles, 27 assists, and 3 sacks. These are D.J. Williams type numbers. In addition, the Giants just signed defensive coordinator Perry Fewell who tends to use the Tampa-2 scheme frequently. This should further increase Boley's value next season. DSC, S June 9 Update: News out of New York is that Perry Fewell is NOT going to use any Cover-2 packages with the Giants this season instead he will employ more multiple front packages to utilize the plethora of talent upfront. This decreases Boley's value a bit and he falls from #25 to #30.

For the rest of the defensive linemen rankings (31-50) and much more IDP information, visit The IDP Guru, your one-stop shop for all things IDP!

Last Updated: July 11, 2010