It's time for the final segment of a four part series on breakouts and busts for the 2011 fantasy football season. Last, but not least, it's Tight Ends.
Breakout: Jimmy Graham- When you hear the term "freak athlete", chances are Jimmy Graham fits the bill. At 6'6" and 260 lbs, he is match up nightmare. The Saints TE has an outstanding opportunity to join the top tier at his position this year. Obviously, the fact that he's a member of the top-ranked New Orleans passing attack doesn't hurt. Drew Brees has a knack for finding his tight ends in the end zone, and he's never had a physical specimen like Graham before (sorry Jeremy Shockey, that doesn't apply to you). Like his predecessor at the position, Graham comes from "The U", a school that's knowing for pumping out star TE's. In his rookie year in 2010, the ex-Hurricane stormed onto the scene with 4 TD's in his final three games. Pace that out to a whole season, and you're looking at broken records.
Prediction: 900 Receiving Yards, 10 TD's
Bust: Jermichael Finley- Like his breakout counterpart, Finley is a beast of a man. He's definitely not lacking in confidence either. He stated this summer that he's going to change the tight end position. While anything is possible, Finley isn't going to be changing anything if he can't stay on the field. Despite massive amounts of hype, the Packers TE has a proven injury history. In his three year NFL career, Finley has yet to play a full 16-game schedule. In fact, last year he only suited up for five contests before falling to a knee injury. If he somehow does play all year, Finley will be in a great situation with Aaron Rodgers slinging him the ball. The risk outweighs the reward, though, in my opinion. Although the talent is there, I'm not ready to bet my money on Finley until he can stay healthy for a full season. Considering his current price tag (rated as the 2nd TE on the board), he's too rich for my taste.
Prediction: 550 Receiving Yards, 4 TD's
by Andrew Adamson
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