This has been somewhat of a theme for me recently. That is looking at the fantasy impact of otherwise meaningless preseason games. We have had some tremendous performances in the three weeks since the exhibition season started.
Justin Blackmon had dominated in his first two NFL games with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Meanwhile, his new teammate Rashad Jennings has the look of a fantasy sleeper.
With that in mind, this article is going to focus on five players you need to take a look at in tonight's preseason action.
5. Robert Meachem, Wide Receiver, San Diego Chargers
The injury to Vincent Brown has opened up ample opportunities for one San Diego Chargers wide receivers. Meachem a free agent signing, are going to be contending for the No. 2 wide receiver slot in the final two games of the preseason.
It will be interesting to see who is targeted the most by Philip Rivers because Meachem presents a serious intrigue as a backup wide receiver in fantasy football. Meachem has been said to be a product of Drew Brees in New Orleans with the Saints. He is now looking to to dispel that notion.
4. Doug Martin, Running Back, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Another injury opening up an opportunity for a youngster. Here the minor injury to LeGarrette Blount has given Martin, a 2012 first-round pick from Boise State, an opportunity to show the Buccaneers he can be their primary ball-carrier as a rookie.
Despite showing flashes of brilliance in practice, Tampa Bay has failed to feature Martin in either of their two preseason games. This promises to change against the New England Patriots this evening.
As I have stated in numerous articles, Martin is going to be one of the most productive rookie running backs in the National Football League. In fact, there is a strong possibility that he might give you RB1 numbers in the later rounds. Just food for thought here.
3. Russell Wilson, Quarterback, Seattle Seahawks
This is more about dynasty and keeper leagues more than anything else. Even if Wilson does earn the Seahawks starting job as a rookie, it is hard to imagine him being a reliable QB2 in 2012. Instead, you just need to take a look at how he performs and handles the nuances of the National Football League.
The Wisconsin product has an opportunity to prove skeptics wrong. Boasting first-round talent, Wilson fell to the third round because of his height. That being said, he hasn't seemed to struggle in the pocket in the 'Hawks first two preseason games.
2. Stevan Ridley, Running Back, New England Patriots
We all know that the Patriots are pass happy on the offensive side of the ball, that really isn't even in question. This doesn't mean that their running backs aren't going to get an opportunity to put up some numbers. Remember, Danny Woodhead and BenJarvus Green-Ellis were a solid tandem the last couple seasons.
New England now looks at two young running backs to shoulder the load. Ridley, entering his second season, should be their starter when camp breaks. He has both the size and speed to be a solid starting running back in the NFL.
One issue.. Shane Vereen is also going to be vying for carries and has impressed in the Patriots first two preseason games.
1. Julio Jones, Wide Receiver, Atlanta Falcons
Jones is quickly becoming a viable WR1 in fantasy football. His production increased as the 2011 season progressed and he has looked even more impressive during training camp.
I am definitely expecting 1,300 yards from the Alabama product in his second season, especially with Atlanta turning to a more pass orientated offense. It will also be interesting to see Jones go up against what has been a suspect Dolphins secondary through two preseason games.