Fantasy Rankings: AFC East TEs in 2009
If you’re looking for a top tier Tight End, you’re not going to find one in the AFC East. There are borderline number one starters though, and it all begins in New York with Dustin Keller.
1. Dustin Keller
After an impressive, albeit up and down rookie campaign, Keller tops a weak bunch of AFC East TEs in 2009 even though he could be playing with arookie QB in Mark Sanchez. In 2008, the athletic TE ended with 535 receiving yards and three TDs.
Regardless of who lines up behind center, the TE will receive a lot of looks in this offense, so expect Keller to put up more than 600 yards and increase his TDs to six.
2. Anthony Fasano
Fasano actually made a big splash in Miami last year as he hauled in over 400 receiving yards with seven TDs on only 34 catches.
Sparano is from the Bill Parcells school of coaching and the TE position has always played a key role dating back to Bavaro.
Look for Fasano to be a safety outlet for Pennington once again this year and end up with five TDs. He could see his production decrease however due to the emergence of the younger receivers.
3. Ben Watson
Watson might be the most talented TE in the division, but when you play alongside Randy Moss, Wes Welker and now Joey Galloway, there’s just not enough balls to come your way. In 2008, he caught just 22 passes for 209 yards and two TDs.
Brady is back this year from his knee injury, but we still don’t see much change coming. Look for another subpar 2009 fantasy seasonand between 200-300 yards and three scores as the team’s fourth and fifth option.
4.Derek Schouman
Schouman is a bit of an unknown as he was stuck behind Robert Royal for the past few years, but in 2008, as a back-up, he did manage 153 yards and one TD on 15 catches.
And T.O. is in town this year, so don’t expect his looks to increase. Expect another quiet year although he could increase his TD total to two or three.
Draft Tip
Don’t select any of the AFC East TEs before round ten and expect Keller to hear his name go first. Fasano turned out to be a nice fantasy sleeper last year and could be a late round gem once again.
Neither Watson or Schouman warrant a draft selection but keep an eye on their production early on as they might provide value on the waiver wire.
