2014 Review

The Rams players added very little relevance to the world of fantasy football last season.

With starting quarterback Sam Bradford injured once again and starring in his own version of “Groundhog Day”, no Rams quarterback was worth starting or much less owning in 2014. The best the team produced was Austin Davis who ranked 30th in fantasy points by totaling 2,001 yards for 12 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Worse was Shaun Hill who ranked 34th for the nine games he played.

As for how the running back situation played out in St. Louis, those who drafted top prospect Zac Stacy got burned. Stacy ranked 73rd in fantasy points after minimally participating in 13 games for the Rams last season. His 2:1 fumble to one touchdown ratio surely landed Stacy on the waivers once the offense changed directions.

Those who had the foresight to draft Tre Mason claimed a running back who had some star weeks mixed with some dreary ones. Benny Cunningham was a desperation play in PPR leagues only where his 352 return yards may have helped in a pinch.

Any Rams’ receiver was even more worthless to own than the names mentioned above. When the top receiver ranks 51st in fantasy points with 748 yards and three touchdowns, it is time to run. Kenny Britt sadly produced these numbers. Tavon Austin ranked 82nd and Brian Quick ranked 85th.

Tight end Jared Cook was a complete wildcard in 2014. His catches per game ranged anywhere from zero to seven earning him a 15th overall ranking among all tight ends. Unless one needed to start two tight ends last year, Cook was better left sitting on the bench.

Veteran Additions

In a move that turned heads throughout the nation, the Rams accepted a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles and swapped Bradford for fourth-year signal-caller Nick Foles. Foles for the most part, wound up being a flop in 2014 during the eight games he played in Philadelphia before suffering a season-ending injury.

This was a disappointment for those who drafted Foles based on his strong 2013 fantasy season. That year Foles ranked 11th overall in fantasy points, throwing a phenomenal 27:2 touchdown to interception ratio.

Now, coming from a shaky season in Philly and entering the scene in St. Louis with a depressing cast of receivers, Foles should be drafted with caution. He is nothing more than a backup prospect until we can witness him with his “so-called” Rams’ first team.

NFL Draft

The Rams did what fantasy owners had preferred they not do. They drafted top running back prospect Todd Gurley with their first overall pick. Why would they do that when had a somewhat promising young running back crew already in place? Perhaps they did it to mess with fantasy football. Gurley should hit the scene as the No. 1 running back in St. Louis. But, can we trust that he is in full health from having blown out his ACL last November? And, can we trust that the team will not switch up their running backs on a whim if Gurley falters?

Gurley put up a total of 3,285 rushing yards and 36 touchdowns during his 30 games playing for the University of Georgia.

For the past couple of seasons it has been a crapshoot to trust any Rams’ running back as a fantasy option. Draft Gurley as low as possible with the hope that he surprises and breaks the Rams’ running back jinx this season.

Potential Breakout Star

None of the Rams offer much fantasy appeal. However, it would be great if Gurley paid off and became a trustworthy RB1 once the season got underway. The rookie showed promise in his last college season by producing 911 yards over the six games he played. He also scored nine touchdowns and rushed for a speedy 7.4 yards per carry.

If the Rams will give him the lion’s share of the carries and he stays healthy, he could be a stud. Unfortunately, it’s those ifs and question marks that stand in the way.

Potential Disappointment

Foles would have to earn a spot here. Without an elite or even middling supporting cast of receivers, Foles, who was on the decline last season, could disappoint those who take a late-round flier on him. There are many other more reliable, later-round fantasy quarterback options other than Foles to target this year.