RADIO
Michael Floyd is Flying Under the Radar, Somehow
How is Michael Floyd not being hyped up more as one of the best sleepers to own in both redraft and dynasty leagues? He was the 13th overall pick in the 2012 draft (could have been higher had it not been for his DUI), had a nice breakout season last year, is playing in a vertical offense, and learned from one of the best receivers in NFL history (who is on a tremendous decline as we speak). Currently sitting as on average the 23th wide receiver being taken, I just salivate at this value every time I think about it. He has the makings of this year's Alshon Jeffery and Josh Gordon.
Last year, Floyd broke onto the scene in a big way, becoming one of the league's best deep threats, showcasing his superb leaping ability as well as great speed and size. He had 66 catches for 1054 yards on 112 targets. He scored only 5 touchdowns, but was stopped inside the 5 yard line on at least 3 separate occasions.
What can we expect from Floyd in 2014?
I think an increase in touchdowns is likely given that he will be given more opportunities in a more trusted role, and luck will certainly be more on his side this year. That TD number could easily hit 8. I also expect his total targets to increase, thus raising his catches and yardage by default. He was used all over the field last year as both a vertical threat and over the middle target.
The reports out of Cardinals camp are glowing on Floyd, as expected. In his third year, I expect the Cardinals to fully let him loose, while Larry Fitzgerald will most likely stick to his role as an aggressive short route chain mover. In what could be a top 10 offense in the NFL next year, I expect Floyd to lead the team in receiving, and become a legitimate high-end WR2 by years end. I'm not afraid to draft him as high as the 4th round in a 12 team league. The upside is there for a top season, and his floor is still rather high as long as Carson Palmer stays healthy, as Bruce Arians runs one of the most aggressive attacks in football.
You can read more of my analysis about Michael Floyd here.
