Vick's Impact On Fantasy Football

We all know that Michael Vick’s golden days are more than likely behind him. For the former Falcon QB, his golden days were when he was breaking off long runs and weaving in and out of defenders’ grasps; he always would provide some sort of fantasy contribution. Granted, he never was a top fantasy point producer, but was never a bad option to fill in for your starting Quarterback’s bye week, or any injuries that may have been suffered during the season. So how will the Vick of today impact the fantasy world this year?

First, Vick is likely to be suspended for the first 6 weeks, so that will greatly impact any value he may have had. As many fantasy drafts are occurring in the coming days, owners should not consider Vick as a possible draft selection. Don’t forget that Donovan McNabb is still the starter, and will not be bumped out for Vick to start this year, unless some freak accident or poor play from McNabb progresses. With Vick more than likely to be backup to McNabb, and still face a suspension for at least 6 games, Vick is not a smart selection in any fantasy draft.

Vick will definitely impact Donovan McNabb. Since McNabb’s arrival in Philly, Donovan has been one of the better Quarterback options out there in the fantasy world, and will once again be a great option in the upcoming fantasy season. But with Vick’ signing, McNabb will see some snaps taken away from him, thus leading to a possible decline in fantasy points. With Vick bringing a whole new playbook option to the Eagles, McNabb’s fantasy value will be impossible to predict. Don’t get me wrong, McNabb is still a top ten Quarterback in my opinion, and he will put up good number, but once Week 6 passes and Vick makes his debut, McNabb will see a little less action on the field.

Now back to the actual value of Vick as a fantasy option. It’s hard to make a prediction as to how many snaps Vick will see on the field, but I will do my best to provide my insight on how he will perform. Below, I provided some predictions, and how to come about drafting or signing Mike Vick.

• I know that I have already stated above, “ …owners should not consider Vick as a possible draft selection”, and I will stick with that thought. But, if anyone was to consider to make a move on Vick come draft day, I have to say that a good round to take the risk is anywhere from the 13th round on. Especially if you have already drafted McNabb, you may want to draft Vick as a handcuff for McNabb.
• The other way to come about getting Vick on your team is to sign him as a Free Agent. If Vick does not get selected, which will happen in many leagues, you should take a shot at him in the free agent pool. More then likely you will see many owners hesitant about bringing Vick on their roster, but in 2009, Vick is potentially one of the biggest “sleepers” ( in fantasy terms ).

Now to the all important projections for Vick. I feel obligated to give you my expectations for Vick’s fantasy value, and before I continue, understand that Vick is perhaps the hardest player to project this season. So here we go…

- Rushing yards: 330

- Total Touchdowns: 6

- Passing yards: 205

After looking at the projections, you will notice that those numbers may be a little low, and simply put, Vick hasn’t played for two years and will miss almost half the season. Now Vick may rise above the numbers, especially the rushing yards, but for now, that is how I picture Vick’s statistics. (Note: If McNabb were to suffer any injury, than these numbers would greatly increase)

I know that Vick has caused much controversy among the Eagle faithful, so how do YOU think Vick will perform fantasy-wise? Let us know.