Survivor I - David Akers Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Positives - This league rewards 1 bonus point for field goals over 40 yards and 2 bonus points for field goals over 50 yards. David Akers converted 27 field goals last season and 15 of them were 40 yards or more. The fact that he is on the Eagles means more opportunities for extra points. Akers converted 41 of 41 extra points last season.

Negatives - Akers has never had more than 2 field goals of 50 yards or more in a season. He has 9 career 50+ yard field goals and overall he is 60% from 50 yards or beyond.

Draft Strategy - I normally wait longer to pick a kicker, but with the scoring system rewarding for longer field goals, I decided it was worth the pick. I had already secured my starters and most of my backups. Any other pick from here on out will likely be a defense, a safety valve or a risk pick that has value. What’s not to like about Akers? He’s consistent and he’ll likely be in the top 5 among kickers, as he’s reached that level 4 of the past 5 seasons.