2009 Fantasy Football Mock Draft: Experts Version

June 28, 2009.

This is a 2009 Fantasy Football Mock Draft organized by Ryan West of WestSportsReport.com. Twelve Web sites, including this one, participated in this mock. This mock is complete.

Each pick has commentary made by the corresponding Web site.

Go here for 2009 Fantasy Football Experts Mock Draft: Rounds 9-16.


Round 1

1. Junkyard Jake.com: Adrian Peterson, RB, Vikings
   Peterson seems to be the clear choice at #1 in 2009. More receiving yards (only 125 in 2008) and TDs (10 last year) would be nice, but that is really just nitpicking if can come close to a repeat of 1,760 rush yards and 4.8 YPC.
   
   
2. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jaguars
   MJD at No. 2 overall might seem a slot or two too high for some, but the little guy is going to explode in 2009.
   
   
3. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Michael Turner, RB, Falcons
   We'd have felt better with MJD and although we feel he won't match last year's numbers it's tough not to take Turner here. LT is getting old, Jackson can't stay healthy and Forte isn't on this level.
   
   
4. FFToolbox.com: Matt Forte, RB, Bears
   Matt Forte is a great pick as he will benefit from actually having a quarterback. A little concerned with the workload he got last year though.
   
   
5. LestersLegends.com: Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals
   The RBs on the board have too many question markes for a top five pick. Two RB systems are becoming the norm. With Fitz you can pretty much pencil in 1400 yards and 10 TDs. Plus, Arizona has a cakewalk in the fantasy playoffs.
   
   
6. FantasyDraftTools.com: Brian Westbrook, RB, Eagles
   Even with the drafting of McCoy and its almost guaranteed he won't play a full season, he can single handily carry a fantasy team from week to week.
   
   
7. DraftZoo.com: Chris Johnson, RB, Titans
   The Titans have already stated that they're looking to get Johnson even more involved this year. If you ask me, I'd say Jeff Fisher's been getting Johnsons involved for a while. Can't beat experience like that. I think he's better than the seventh-best player in the draft, so I like getting him here.
   
   
8. WalterFootball.com: LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, Chargers
   So, let's see... LaDainian Tomlinson just had his worst season ever. For the record, he rushed for 1,110 yards, caught 52 passes for 426 receiving yards, and scored 12 touchdowns. Oh the horror. Tomlinson was coming off a torn MCL and suffered a toe injury. Now he's healthy again.
   
   
9. FootballFanSpot.com: Steve Slaton, RB, Texans
   Houston's offense really took off last season after Slaton was given more work. The Texans don't have another running back to cut into Slaton's carries so you have to believe that the 20+ carries per game he was getting towards the end of last season will continue. He had 4 100 rushing yard games in his last 7 games last season and he'll only get better with experience. He also had 50 catches for 377 yards last season which is a very nice added bonus.
   
   
10. WestSportsReport.com: Steven Jackson, RB, Rams
    Steven Jackson could be very good if he can somehow stay healthy. The Rams are going to run the ball alot this year and upgraded some at their offensive line. Jackson will also dominate PPR leagues.
    
    
11. KFFL.com: DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers
    The Panthers won't be going away from the run anytime soon, so the talented Williams should see plenty of touches in Carolina's two-headed attack. He was the best running back left on the board.
    
    
12. TheSportsBank.net: Andre Johnson, WR, Texans
    Johnson absolutely crushes in PPR leagues but even in a standard league he is a lock for 1200 yards receiving. I'm hoping he can find the end zone more than the 8 times he scored last season.
    
    

Round 2

1. TheSportsBank.net: Brandon Jacobs, RB, Giants
   Brandon Jacobs is a beast when healthy and without Derrick Ward in the Giants backfield, more is going to be expected out of Jacobs. At pick 13, I'm extremely happy to get a guy who scored 15 times last year.
   
   
2. KFFL.com: Clinton Portis, RB, Redskins
   Portis has consistently reached 1,200 yards and close to double digits in touchdowns. Nothing should change this year; he's still the workhorse back in Washington. Selecting him gives me two solid No. 1 backs in my starting backfield.
   
   
3. WestSportsReport.com: Calvin Johnson, WR, Lions
   Calvin Johnson will finally have a QB to throw him the ball and with the quarterbacks that through him the ball, he still performed very well. If I wait on a WR and take a running back, I won't have a wide receiver able to produce the numbers that Calvin can. I think there is still plenty of depth at the RB position.
   
   
4. FootballFanSpot.com: Tom Brady, QB, Patriots
   Last time I checked, he didn't hurt his arm. If Matt Cassel can get 3693 yards passing with Welker and Moss, I find it very hard to believe that Brady won't exceed 4000 yards by a lot now with Welker, Moss, Joey Galloway, a healthy Benjamin Watson, Brandon Tate, and Brad Smith. Cassel had 21 touchdowns with a very weak arm, Brady should have 30-35. Phillip Rivers wasn't effected by knee surgery last year, neither was Peyton Manning. Brady shouldn't be either. Getting him in the 2nd round could be a steal when its all said and done.
   
   
5. WalterFootball.com: Randy Moss, WR, Patriots
   My No. 1 receiver. If Randy Moss was able to score 11 touchdowns with Cassel, I don't think there's any question that he'll improve that total to the mid-teens, at the very least, with Tom Brady back at the helm.
   
   
6. DraftZoo.com: Frank Gore, RB, 49ers
   Gore's not the greatest running back in the world, but I think he's a decent pick here. He'll be the starter in San Fran, and while they won't have the luxury of running the game out with the lead all too often, I do think he'll be one Shaun Hills favorite targets, and he'll get some good carries. Doesn't hurt that he has seven games against teams that finished in the bottom ten in the league last year against the rush. Honestly, I just really wanted to go RB-RB and Gores the best RB left with a different bye week than Chris Johnson.
   
   
7. FantasyDraftTools.com: Drew Brees, QB, Saints
   This is a tough pick, take the 14th best RB, 5th best WR or the top QB (you never know the true health of Brady)...although I would rarely pick a QB so early, the "best available" option is Drew Brees.
   
   
8. LestersLegends.com: Ronnie Brown, RB, Dolphins
   In 2007 he was the best back not named LT before blowing his knee out. Without a full year to recover he had 916 yards rushing, 254 receiving, and 11 TDs (10 rushing, 1 passing). Another year removed from the injury, and Ronnie should get his explosiveness back.
   
   
9. FFToolbox.com: Anquan Boldin, WR, Cardinals
   Before one of the most vicious (legal) hits in NFL history, Boldin was on his way to an NFL season for the record books, being on pace to get close to Randy Moss' record season of 2007, with 27 catches for 366 yards and 5 TDs. With a full season of health, and hopefully a drama-less one at that, look for Bolden to tap back into that early '08 success.
   
   
10. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Marion Barber, RB, Cowboys
    They love to give Barber the ball at the goal line which of course is a great fantasy football formula. Very happy to get a 2nd strong RB late in the 2nd round with plenty of good WRs to get early in the next round.
    
    
11. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Reggie Wayne, WR, Colts
    Wayne has the ability to be the No. 1 fantasy receiver in 2009, so to land him at the bottom of the second is huge in my opinion. With MJD and Wayne on the roster, both top five locks in my book (if healthy in 2009), we can really head in any direction with our upcoming third-round pick.
    
    
12. Junkyard Jake.com: Steve Smith, WR, Panthers
    Smith finished with 1,421 yards, including eight 100 yard games, in a season where he missed the first two games. An increase in his 6 TDs over 2008, and more consistent play from Jake Delhomme would be helpful this season, but he still represents a high-potential fantasy receiver, and a great value at the end of round 2.
    
    

Round 3

1. Junkyard Jake.com: Peyton Manning, QB, Colts
   The retirement of Tom Moore, and the absence of Marvin Harrison this season raises some concerns, but in reality, Manning is essentially his own offensive coordinator on many plays, and Anthony Gonzalez should prove to be an upgrade over Harrison this season.
   
   
2. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Marques Colston, WR, Saints
   We recently posted an article on Marques Colston's microfracture surgery and we came to the conclusion that he has a strong shot at being close to 100 percent by Week 1. Colston's microfracture procedure was not thought to be as serious as some microfracture surgeries, and given his youth and situation, he is well worth the risk at this point in a 2009 mock draft. Of course we will monitor his progress this off-season and adjust accordingly, but for now Colston still has fantasy WR1 talent and he will make a fine third player for our squad!
   
   
3. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Greg Jennings, WR, Packers
   No analysis given.
   
   
4. FFToolbox.com: Antonio Gates, TE, Chargers
   No analysis given.
   
   
5. LestersLegends.com: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Broncos
   With Cutler gone the Broncos will likely get back to running the football. Knowshon will easily beat out the Misfits that were brought in during the offseason. He is running behind a good offesive line and should produce immediately. Plus, with Shanahan gone, you don't have to worry about mind games.
   
   
6. FantasyDraftTools.com: Dwayne Bowe, WR, Chiefs
   Couldn't pass up Bowe here, in 2008, he had 86 catches for just over 1000 yards and 7 scores. He was sharing the targets with tony gonzalez and still managed to have the 3rd highest targets in the league for WRs (only behind Brandon Marshall & Andre Johnson)...Tony G is gone which may mean more coverage for Bowe, but Matt Cassel is an upgrade of Tyler Thigpen. Look for even more improved stats in 2009. Gladly take him with the 30th overall pick.
   
   
7. DraftZoo.com: Brandon Marshall, WR, Broncos
   I'll be honest, I really wanted Knowshon here. So nice pick, Lester. Anyway, now that Brandon Marshall won't miss any time from a suspension, I think he's one of the best receiving options left. If Randy Moss can grab 11 TDs with Cassel at the helm, then I think Marshall can put up similar or better numbers with Kyle Orton in the same system.
   
   
8. WalterFootball.com: Kevin Smith, RB, Lions
   I really wanted Knowshon Moreno here, but apparently DraftZoo wasn't going to let that happen. But Kevin Smith is a nice consolation prize. In the final seven weeks of his rookie season, Smith averaged 21 attempts and 83.9 rushing yards per contest. He was also a factor in the passing game, catching 39 balls for 286 yards in 2008. Now that he's in his second year, Smith will be even more involved.
   
   
9. FootballFanSpot.com: Roddy White, WR, Falcons
   Roddy White had 88 catches for 1382 yards last year, despite the fact that Matt Ryan only threw 434 times. The Falcons are giving Ryan more of a role in the offense this season, as Michael Turner was way overworked last year, and thus White's targets will go up. I see no reason why Ryan won't throw 500+ times this season and if that happens, White should get 1400+ yards and improve his touchdown total, 7, as well. White is also in a contract year, which means he'll be motivated.
   
   
10. WestSportsReport.com: Pierre Thomas, RB, Saints
    Pierre Thomas will be getting a lot of carries this year with the departure of Deuce McAllister. I can never count on Reggie Bush to be healthy or in fact even the run the football. Hopefully Sean Payton realizes that he has something special, lets Drew Brees rest a little bit, and gives Thomas the Ball.
    
    
11. KFFL.com: Terrell Owens, WR, Bills
    Needed a wide receiver at this point. Owens was the best available. Owens was great in his first year in Philly and Dallas; think that pattern continues in Buffalo, especially with motivation for a new contract after the season. Definitely some worries that he's near the end of his line, but I think he has at least one more good season in him.
    
    
12. TheSportsBank.net: Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers
    Rivers exploded last season to be the quarterback he was drafted to be. 4,000 yards and 34 TD's were numbers that cannot be ignored. A healthy LT might bring those figures down a little bit, but not enough to the point that would allow a top quarterback like Rivers fall back to me with the 60th pick.
    
    

Round 4

1. TheSportsBank.net: Wes Welker, WR, Patriots
   Welker is a focal point of the Patriots offense no matter who is taking the snaps. I like taking guys who A)get targeted a lot and B)catch most of those targets (see:Andre Johnson) because it means they are going to give their fantasy owners plenty of chances to get points. With Brady back at the helm, I see Welker's yardage in the same range as the last two seasons (1100+ yards) but his chances to get into the endzone should increase.
   
   
2. KFFL.com: Braylon Edwards, WR, Browns
   A new coaching staff should help the talented wideout. He has the ability to produce like a top No. 1 ... when he's focused. I think it's good value on him at this stage, especially considering the remaining receivers. Definitely some risk involved, though.
   
   
3. WestSportsReport.com: Aaron Rodgers, QB, Packers
   I really thought about taking Ryan Grant here for insurance purposes at the RB position, but I figured I'd get one of the last top quarterbacks on the list. The Packers are going to throw the ball a lot, while Cutler, Romo, and Warner all might have down years because of different personnel. When I looked at other positions, not one certain player stuck out like Rodgers did.
   
   
4. FootballFanSpot.com: Chris Wells, RB, Cardinals
   Wells is going to get the vast majority of the carries for his team this season, which is more than you can say about most halfbacks at this point in the draft. The defense will be so concerned trying to slow down Kurt Warner, covering Boldin and Fitzgerald, that Wells should have 1000 yards rushing with ease. He didn't catch a lot of balls at Ohio State, which means he won't do a lot in that area for me, but my RB1 is Steve Slaton so that makes up for it. The only issue is his durability. Most rookies backs tend to break down by fantasy playoff time, but in weeks 14-17, Wells faces San Francisco, Detroit, St. Louis, and Green Bay, which will be a cakewalk for him, even if he has started to break down.
   
   
5. WalterFootball.com: Antonio Bryant, WR, Buccaneers
   Two players I really wanted - Aaron Rodgers and Chris Wells - just went off the board, so I'll take my WR2. If Antonio Bryant can garner 83 receptions, 1,248 yards and seven touchdowns with Jeff Garcia at the helm, I don't see why he can't duplicate those numbers with Luke McCown, who has a stronger arm than his predecessor.
   
   
6. DraftZoo.com: Chad Johnson, WR, Bengals
   Chad Johnson should have a great year. He's healthy, and more importantly Carson Palmer is healthy. With TJH gone, I think he'll flourish again. He didn't put up great numbers last year, but they weren't too bad considering who was playing quarterback. Palmer will probably lean on his most familiar target this season, and I think the Bengal could be down enough times to need to air it out. Plus, I haven't heard much from Ocho this offseason which hopefully means he's been working and not bitching.
   
   
7. FantasyDraftTools.com: Ryan Grant, RB, Packers
   There is no contract hold out this summer, he's going into the year healthy and he's out to prove that he was no one-hit wonder in 2007. With a balanced air attack consisting of Aaron Rodgers and Greg Jennings, defenses will not be able to stack the box. Without no other legitimate competition in the backfield, he should get a majority of the carries. Look for him to return to 2007 rather than 2008. I thought about taking him at #30 so that fact that he was still there at #43 gets me both targeted players.
   
   
8. LestersLegends.com: Jason Witten, TE, Cowboys
   Jason Witten is the #1 WR for the Dallas Cowboys, although he is a TE, which makes him all the move valuable.
   
   
9. FFToolbox.com: Roy Williams, WR, Cowboys
   The actual number one WR of the Cowboys. He had 1,300 receiving yards the last time his QB had a pulse. This is a guy who, if he gets as many passes thrown at him as T. O. did last season, will approach 100 receptions. He is that good. He has those skills. He's proven he can catch the ball, and while he may not have the game-breaking burst of your top wideouts, he still can (and will) have double digit touchdowns.
   
   
10. FantasyDraftEdge.com: T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR, Seahawks
    The Seahawks have been waiting for somebody to actually catch the ball and TJ has been waiting to be the go to option. Good match.
    
    
11. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Joseph Addai, RB, Colts
    Addai's fantasy value will be debated all the way up to kickoff in 2009. Even though Donald Brown is on the roster, Addai is going to get his. All the guy needs is roughly 250 carries and he can crank out 1,000 yards and 10+ scores. He had 261 carries, 1,072 rushing yards, 41 receptions for 364 yards and 15 total scores in 2007, a season he was still sharing carries. In that Colts offense this season, Addai should easily get to that 250 carry mark if healthy. Donald Brown might just help Addai stay healthy. Like Marion Barber, Addai is the kind of running back that can get 12-14 total scores on 240-250 carry season, whereas a heavier workload will end up producing missed games, which ends up causing less produced yards and less touchdowns all together. Maurice Jones-Drew, Joseph Addai, Reggie Wayne and Marques Colston... we're very pleased with that four.
    
    
12. Junkyard Jake.com: Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders
    McFadden was significantly hampered by turf toe last season, and still managed to finish with a respectable 4.4 YPC, compared to starter Justin Fargas's 3.9 YPC. This season, with his turf toe problems reportedly behind him, the 2nd year back should surpass Fargas on the depth chart. Surely McFadden is still a risky pick, but with his speed, and receiving ability, he appears to have large untapped potential in 2009.
    
    

Round 5

1. Junkyard Jake.com: Vincent Jackson, WR, Chargers
   There are a few great receivers to choose from at this point, but on the basis of his 1098 yard, 7 TD breakout season in 2008, Vincent Jackson is a solid choice to begin the 5th round. One other positive for Jackson is the continuity of the Chargers offense, where he reunites with emerging Phillip Rivers under the same coaching staff and offensive system in 2009.
   
   
2. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Marshawn Lynch, RB, Bills
   This league only starts 2RBs and we already have MJD and Addai, but we can't pass up the value here. Marshawn Lynch could get his three-game suspension reduced to 1-2, but even if he doesn't, the stud is well worth the grab in the 5th. With Terrell Owens keeping defenses honest in 2009, I can see Lynch rushing for well over 1,000 yards and 10+ scores.
   
   
3. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers
   Would have LOVED to see Lynch last one more pick but very happy to get an exceptionally talented back behind a very good offensive line. Obviously sharing carries is a concern but he'll get plenty of chances and if DeAngelo gets hurt we have one of the best backs in the league.
   
   
4. FFToolbox.com: Thomas Jones, RB, Jets
   By no means is this a sexy pick, but in the long run these are the types of picks that win you awards Safe picks that net value. Jones a is a proven back, a veteran of the NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE, and was actaully the top back left on my board for the last 20-25 picks or so. The normal arguments against him would be age (he's a crazy workout guy, and hasn't deteriorated like other backs his age) and that there's a ton of competetion in New York. While the latter is true, Leon Washington siphoned off a ton of carries and 8 scores last season too, and with a new quarterback in camp in Matt Sanchez, the running game is going to be even more important for the Jets.
   
   
5. LestersLegends.com: Santonio Holmes, WR, Steelers
   Santonio Holmes was supposed to break out last year, but he ran into some issues. He proved his worth in the Super Bowl though, and I expect that to carry over into the regular season. Look for him to finally crack the 1000 yard mark and approach double-digit TDs.
   
   
6. FantasyDraftTools.com: Reggie Bush, RB, Saints
   This is a huge risk/reward pick. After 8 weeks of 2008, Reggie was the best Fantasy RB in the league, especially in PPR leagues. Will he comeback 100% healthy in 2009...that's the question, but being available in the middle of the 5th round, he's clearly undervalued this year. He will share touches with Pierre Thomas, but that doesn't mean he won't be successful as there are plenty of RBBC's where both guys are productive.
   
   
7. DraftZoo.com: Eddie Royal, WR, Broncos
   I like Eddie Royal here. I know I'm putting a lot of eggs in the Denver passing offense basket, but I think it could pay off considering how often they'll be down and in need of throwing 50 times a game. I think Josh McDaniels offense will run much smoother in Denver where the offensive line is better, the QB is better (Orton is better than Cassel), and the receivers are still pretty talented. Basically I'm hoping that Eddie Royal becomes Wes Welker, Jr with better TD numbers.
   
   
8. WalterFootball.com: Derrick Ward, RB, Buccaneers
   Derrick Ward and Earnest Graham will split carries, but Luke "Captain Checkdown" McCown will turn to Ward often when he has to throw the ball. Ward should garner at least 1,300 total yards this season, making him a very good RB3.
   
   
9. FootballFanSpot.com: Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Colts
   He's the unquestioned #2 in the Indianapolis offense and he's in the his 3rd year, the magical year when all high upside wide receivers break out. He was a first round pick in 2007, so the upside is there. Now that he has the opportunity and the experience, he could be ready to shine. He has 1240 yards and 93 receptions in his short career so if he gets 75-80 receptions this year, not unreasonable for the Indy #2, he could get 1000 yards.
   
   
10. WestSportsReport.com: Lee Evans, WR, Bills
    Lee Evans will do very well in Buffalo now that TO is there. He won't get double teamed and Buffalo will probably air it out more.
    
    
11. KFFL.com: Larry Johnson, RB, Chiefs
    Wasn't a need here but grabbing LJ gives me a No. 3 back that can produce like a No. 1, especially for when Clinton Portis and DeAngelo Williams get hurt. I think Johnson has at least one more good season in him, and we'll hope that he can coexist with new head coach Todd Haley.
    
    
12. TheSportsBank.net: Tony Gonzalez, TE, Falcons
    I really wanted LJ to fall to me here. I need a second running back and I'm not enthused with any of the remaining options. Gonzalez is the pick to ensure I get top production out of a spot that others won't (especially if I'm going to be crossing my fingers at my 2nd running back spot).
    
    

Round 6

1. TheSportsBank.net: Cedric Benson, RB, Bengals
   I go with Benson here because unlike some of the backs that are ranked higher, Benson is going to get the bulk of the touches in Cincinnati. I'm not in love with the pick, but it is a safe pick that will give me points every week.
   
   
2. KFFL.com: Kurt Warner, QB, Cardinals
   Liked the upside here with Warner. Think he can throw for close to 4,000 yards and nearly 30 touchdowns ... if he stays healthy. Good value for his current ADP, too.
   
   
3. WestSportsReport.com: Ray Rice, RB, Ravens
   Running back position is getting thin, so while I could, I figured I would get some insurance just in case one of my two RBs gets hurt or doesn't perform. Rice is bound to have a good year with McClain moving to FB and McGahee always having knee problems. Just didn't feel there was a WR3 to take here.
   
   
4. FootballFanSpot.com: Santana Moss, WR, Redskins
   Forget about high upside guys, how 'bout low floor guys. Santana Moss hasn't had less than 790 yards since his 2nd season in the league back in 2002. He is the unchallenged #1 for the Washington Redskins. Jason Campbell is in his contract year and finally going into his 2nd straight season with the same offensive system, so I'm expecting big things from him and his receivers, including #1 option Santana Moss. he had 1044 yards last year and should get 1000+ this year which is more than you can say for most other guys still left on the board. He's not a touchdown machine though, as he has only had double digit touchdowns once, but at this point, I'll take his 1000 receiving yards and 5-7 touchdowns.
   
   
5. WalterFootball.com: Tony Romo, QB, Cowboys
   Terrell Owens is gone, but Tony Romo should still be good for close to 4,000 yards and 27 touchdowns this year. Roy Williams will step up as the new No. 1; Jason Witten will no longer have to worry about Owens stabbing him in the back; and Tashard Choice is an intriguing option out of the backfield.
   
   
6. DraftZoo.com: Donovan McNabb, QB, Eagles
   Sorry for the delay. Donovan McNabb is really being undervalued in my opinion. The Eagles brought in some new faces at OT, and while it remains to be seen exactly how well they do, I think they'll end up keeping McNabb upright. He's got as many offensive weapons as he's ever had, and I don't think I can wait another round to get him. Plus, there aren't many RBs or WRs worth the pick here.
   
   
7. FantasyDraftTools.com: Dallas Clark, TE, Colts
   Roster needs consist of #2 WR or #1 TE...with many WRs taken already, I'll take the #3 TE on my draft board, Dallas Clark. When Peyton Manning is your QB...enough said. This pick is definite value over some of the recent WR picks, glad he was here in round 6.
   
   
8. LestersLegends.com: LenDale White, RB, Titans
   The Titans did not make many improvements in their passing attack. Chris Johnson will have a bigger role in the Offense, but LenDale is still going to be the guy at the stripe. He's in a contract year and in the best shape of his career. He's a worthy RB3 in a 12-team league.
   
   
9. FFToolbox.com: Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons
   No analysis given.
   
   
10. FantasyDraftEdge.com: DeSean Jackson, WR, Eagles
    Our debate came down to DeSean Jackson, Hines Ward, or Jay Cutler. We worry about Jackson still being too young and Hines Ward getting too old. Cutler brings too many question marks in a new system with a new team. So we went with trusting our cheat sheet. Although as the season approaches the Fantasy Draft Edge cheat sheets will change often, right now our highest ranked remaining player is DeSean Jackson.
    
    
11. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Jerricho Cotchery, WR, Jets
    Cotchery has huge upside this late. I'd never expect fantasy WR2 numbers but he is capable of producing them.
    
    
12. Junkyard Jake.com: Donnie Avery, WR, Rams
    Donnie Avery was quite productive for a rookie, with 53 catches and 674 yards. It was all the more impressive to find out that he was able to accomplish this while playing most of the season with a cracked hip. After the release of Torry Holt, Avery enters 2009 as the favorite to assume the #1 receiving role for the Rams, so it will be interesting to see if he can seize the opportunity.
    
    

Round 7

1. Junkyard Jake.com: LeSean McCoy, RB, Eagles
   With Felix Jones, Donald Brown, Wilis McGahee and the Steelers RBs still on the board, this might be a little early to select LeSean McCoy, but his value gets a fairly significant boost now that Brian Westbrook has elected to have ankle surgery and will most likely miss the entire preseason. McCoy is a very effective inside runner, shows good speed when bouncing outside, and has great receiving ability. Originally projected as a mid 1st rounder, McCoy was considered a little small for every down punishment, but should fit nicely into the Eagles offensive scheme.
   
   
2. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Steelers
   I know this is a bit early for some, but I have Roethy having a huge season this year. Back in 2007, Roethy was quietly a top 5-7 fantasy quarterback while ranking 19th in attempts. That's extremely impressive. With Holmes set to breakout (a year later than we had hoped), I really see Roethy getting back to that top 7 form this upcoming season.
   
   
3. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Jay Cutler, QB, Bears
   We were likely going to pull the trigger on Big Ben but so it goes. To be perfectly honest we aren't thrilled with this pick but being nearly 2 full rounds away from another pick we had to go on a QB and Cutler could have a big year; simply can't let him go any further - trusting the cheat sheet and going with our highest rated QB.
   
   
4. FFToolbox.com: Willie Parker, RB, Steelers
   There's not enough people on my team nicknamed "Fast". So, there we go. Gotta get that taken care of.
   
   
5. LestersLegends.com: Carson Palmer, QB, Bengals
   I expect Palmer to bounce back this year. Ochocinco claims he's going to work harder, be in better shape, etc. Losing Housh is a setback, but Coles is a pretty decent replacement.
   
   
6. FantasyDraftTools.com: Lance Moore, RB, Saints
   I need a WR and Lance Moore was the highest rated WR on my board...not a bad thing that his QB is Drew Brees.
   
   
7. DraftZoo.com: Julius Jones, RB, Seahawks
   This may seem a little early for Jones, but I really wanted to get an RB3 here. And when am I going to be able to find a starting running back again. Jones won't be an insane stat machine, but he did manage to put up a 4.4 ypc average last year despite playing behind a banged up line and having no passing attack. With Hasselbeck back and TJH added to the roster, I think Jones will find more openings. He's a solid RB3 in my opinion.
   
   
8. WalterFootball.com: Chris Cooley, TE, Redskins
   My fourth-best player available, but one who fits a position of need; Chris Cooley had 83 catches for 849 yards last year, but scored only once. I have to believe that was a fluke. Given that Jason Campbell will be playing in the same offense for the second year in a row, Cooley's production could increase even more.
   
   
9. FootballFanSpot.com: Derrick Mason, WR, Ravens
   Derrick Mason might be the most underrated player in the NFL. He has had 1000+ yards in every season this decade with the exception of two. He had 1037 yards receiving last season with rookie Joe Flacco at quarterback, despite the fact that Mason was 34. Flacco is in his 2nd year now and Mason is still his #1 option. Mason has never been all that athletic so the fact that he's now 35 isn't going to stop him from having 1000+ yards, which, in the 7th round, is very good value. I already have 3 WRs, but there's always a chance one gets hurt or struggles. Mason is a damn good WR4. I considered him in the 6th, but waited because I knew he'd be here in the 7th.
   
   
10. WestSportsReport.com: Bernard Berrian, WR, Vikings
    Berrian is the clear #1 in Minnesota and he should get a lot of touches with either Rosenfels or Favre playing at QB.
    
    
11. KFFL.com: Donald Driver, WR, Packers
    After going upside with my other two receivers, I needed some stability with my No. 3 wideout. Driver should be good for at least one more season of around 900 yards and 5-7 touchdowns.
    
    
12. TheSportsBank.net: Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers
    Crabtree was eager to prove himself before the draft, falling to the tenth overall spot in the draft is only going to motivate him further on a San Francisco team with no true #1 WR. I'm very happy to take a chance on him here.
    
    

Round 8

1. TheSportsBank.net: Jamal Lewis, RB, Browns
   Lewis seems very old, but he isn't even 30 yet. He has hit the 1,000 yard plateau in 7 of his 9 professional seasons and is still the number one option in the Cleveland backfield. I'd like to see his touchdown totals go up from last year (only 4 TD) but Lewis in the 8th round is a steal.
   
   
2. KFFL.com: Matt Schaub, QB, Texans
   Kurt Warner is far from certain to play in all 16 games, making it important to secure a strong backup. It looks like the Texans finally have a running game, which should take some pressure off Schaub. He was on pace to throw for 4,426 yards and 22 touchdowns last year.
   
   
3. WestSportsReport.com: Kevin Walter, WR, Texans
   Walter should have a huge year in Houston and could put up huge numbers due to the attention Andre Johnson and Steve Slaton get.
   
   
4. FootballFanSpot.com: Greg Olsen, TE, Bears
   I need a tight end and Olsen is my top TE available here. He's actually my 5th rated tight end and a huge sleeper. Cutler loves throwing it to his tight end, as shown by the fact that even Tony Scheffler has averaged 600 yards receiving over the last two years when Cutler was in Denver. Now in Chicago, Cutler isn't going to have much choice but to throw Olsen's way often, especially in the end zone. His other two options are a converted kick returner/cornerback and a running back. Olsen is also in his 3rd year, the year when wide receivers and tight ends tend to break out. All signs point to Olsen having a top 5 TE season this year.
   
   
5. WalterFootball.com: Hines Ward, WR, Steelers
   My best player available, Hines Ward should be a reliable WR3 for me, especially if Ben Roethlisberger is healthy and consequently reverts back to 2007 form.
   
   
6. DraftZoo.com: Steelers Defense
   Guess I'm the first one going defense. I really don't see anyone at any other position that has more value than someone I can get later. I've got my eye on a few RBs and WRs, but they should be around next pick. I always like having two top defenses, so I need to go ahead and grab one here. The Steelers are good for about 50 sacks and probably a few scores here. Hoping Mike Wallace gets hot as a return man.
   
   
7. FantasyDraftTools.com: Torry Holt, WR, Jaguars
   Once again, I need my third starting WR and I believe Holt will put up decent statistics this year...he won't put up Torry Holt 5 years ago stats, but I feel that Marc Bulgar is a terrible QB and David Gerrard is a definite upgrade. Looking for respectable numbers from my 3rd WR and I'm glad he fell to me in the 8th round.
   
   
8. LestersLegends.com: Laveranues Coles, WR, Bengals
   I hitched my wagon to Carson Palmer, why not add one of his new horses in Coles? Coles is a safe WR3 that should be good for nearly 1000 yards and 6+ TDs if he can stay healthy. Housh took a lot of receptions with him to the Great Northwest. Coles will be in line to snag many of them.
   
   
9. FFToolbox.com: Bears Defense
   This isn't a pick based on the fact that I think that the Bears' defense is really that good -- Although the signing of Tippecanoeandtylertoo to play outside linebacker is a huge help. The Bears' defense scores touchdowns. The Bears' return game scores touchdowns. This should be a valuable pick that, along with another defense that hasn't been selected yet, will be one of the top two D's in fantasy football.
   
   
10. FantasyDraftEdge.com: Kellen Winslow Jr., TE, Buccaneers
    From a personal stand point I'm not at all a big fan of this guy. BUT when he decides to focus, gives some effort and be his best he is very talented. A fresh start and a new situation could lead to the WR like numbers we saw in '06 and '07.
    
    
11. FantasyFootballXtreme.com: Shonn Greene, RB, Jets
    I expect Greene to start by mid-season. Greene has the ability to outperform all other rookies in 2009.
    
    
12. Junkyard Jake.com: Donald Brown, RB, Colts
    It's hard to believe that Joseph Addai is as bad as he looked last year, but Donald Brown could emerge as a very capable platoon-mate if Addai can rebound. In the case that last season was not a fluke for Addai, Donald Brown has a rare burst and agility that could make him a very interesting fantasy RB this season.
    
    

2009 Fantasy Football Experts Mock Draft: Rounds 9-16


We'll have many 2009 Fantasy Football Mock Drafts throughout the summer, so make sure you check back from time to time. Also, be sure to check out my other 2009 Fantasy Football articles, which will include sleepers, busts, cheat sheets and other things.