Asking this guy to live up to last years numbers will be a bit of a long shot, but being one of the very few feature backs in the league should still allow him to post monster numbers yet again. Chris Johnson has blazing speed and can do it all. Catches the ball out of the backfield, runs between the tackles, and most importantly, can make defenders look silly in space. He is a workhorse and will see the vast majority of touches in the Titans offense.
Having Vince Young as the full time starter, from day one, should also help Johnson by taking some of the focus off of him because team's will have to account for Young making plays with his arm and his feet. Johnson also has great hands out of the backfield. In reception leagues this makes him even more valuable.
The only thing that scares me is the amount of carries Johnson had last year. I don't see it being to big of a problem and with the hopeful maturation of Vince Young and some young talent at WR some of the pressure could come off of Johnson's shoulders.
You can't really go wrong taking him number 1 overall in any format and another big year should be coming for this 3rd year pro out of East Carolina.
-Projections: 1,600 yards rushing; 15 TDs; 50 receptions; 550 yards receiving
I have trouble with Chris Johnson this season. The man had such an incredible season last year that I find it hard to believe he will be so successful this year. He also has such a small frame that I would be wary of injury during another high-carry season. That being said, he's still in a great situation in Tennessee. His numbers were so strong last year, and with a contract dispute being the only detractor in his off-season, I would be forced to make this pick as well.
ReplyDeleteMy doubts aside, Chris Johnson is the clear number one overall pick.