Survivor I - T.J. Duckett Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2002	130	507	4	9	61	0	80.8	42
2003	197	779	11	11	94	0	153.3	21
2004	104	509	8	3	15	0	100.4	36

Positives - T.J. Duckett scored 19 touchdowns over the last two years (11 in 2003, 8 in 2004), that’s not too bad considering he’s backup running back to Warrick Dunn. If given the opportunity to start, he could put up big numbers. Regardless though, he’s capable of putting up multiple rushing touchdowns on any given Sunday, simply because he’s clearly the Falcons goal line back.

Negatives - Even when Duckett does get a chance to start (Dunn injury) he has shown inconsistency as the starting back. The Falcons offense is much more in sync when they can rely on a pass-catching back, unfortunately, Duckett is not one. Duckett seems to get the majority of his yards in the 2nd half, to give Warrick Dunn a rest. Although, he seems capable, he may not be able to put up consistent numbers, even if he is given the starting role.

Draft Strategy - I wanted Jerome Bettis, but he was selected one pick before me. T.J. Duckett is another insurance pick for me - not because I have Warrick Dunn (I don’t) but because I needed to get another “value” running back, before they are all picked over. When other owners are choosing the Kevin Faulk’s and the Moe Williams’ of the league, in the 15th and 16th rounds, I’ll be choosing an unsigned free agent wide receiver or a quality kicker. Getting my running back roster taken care of now, will pay dividends in the rounds to come.