Picking a fantasy sleeper is no easy task. It is largely based on the offensive system, depth chart, and ability--usually in that order. Often, it will not matter how talented a player is if he is in the wrong offensive system or is buried in the depth chart. Below is my sleepers list for fantasty football in 2007:
1) DJ Hackett, WR, Seattle--The third-year wideout has played under Mike Holmgren's system the past 3 seasons and is now starting opposite Deion Branch. The loss of Darrell Jackson and Jerramy Stevens leaves All-Pro Matt Hassellbeck with few other options to amass his consistent 3000+ passing yards and 20+ TD's. In 2006, Hackett had 610 yards and 4 scores as a thrid receiver. Now as a starter, look for his numbers to improve.
2) Ladell Betts, RB, Washington--This resourceful took a few years to find his place and offensive system. Now, he's the backup in Washington in Al Saunders' high powered offense. This offense produced fantasy monsters Priest Holmes and Trent Green in Kansas City. Expect Clinton Portis to be unable to solve his injury troubles, and for the young Betts to carry the load.
3) Matt Schaub, QB, Houston--Schaub has never started more than two NFL games, much less played a full season. Yet, he'd the new starter for the Texans in Gary Kubiak's offense. Kubiak was the architect behind the high-powered offense in Denver and looks to establish that presence in Houston. Many critics point out that the Texans offense line is abysmal and that until they upgrade at that position, no QB can succeed. But, these critics fail to learn from the Bledsoe-Tom Brady Lesson in New England. Before Brady took over, Bledsoe was the franchise QB, but could not win with a poor offensive line. Brady took over and took the team to the championship. The O-Line did not change, but Brady's quick release enabled the offense to succeed. Look for Schaub to pull a Brady in 2007.
4) Santonio Holmes, WR, Pittsburgh--I know. Holmes is only in his second year and most star wideouts burst out in their third campaign. Well, Holmes just couldn't wait. Holmes had 824 yards and 2 TD's last year, and is now ready to breakout since Coach Cowher's conservative offensive style is gone and replaced by Bruce Arian's high powered offense. Pittsburgh will now be throwing first and running second. Expect Holmes to catch most of those passes.
5) Vernon Davis, TE, San Francisco--Davis was injured last year, but is now completely healthy and looked unstoppable in camp. At 6'3'' and 263 lbs., the man is still the force that lead the Niners to select him as the 6th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. With Darrell Jackson already nursing injuries in San Fran., look for Davis to step up as Alex Smith's only reliable receiver.
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