Survivor I - Joe Horn Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2002	0	0	0	88	1312	7	173.2	9
2003	2	15	0	78	973	10	159.5	14
2004	0	0	0	94	1399	11	205.9	3

Positives - The #3 ranked fantasy wide receiver last year who has been in the top 10 in 4 of his 5 years with New Orleans. His average season in that span is 87 receptions for 1258 yards and 9 touchdowns. Horn has great chemistry with quarterback Aaron Brooks and has caught 21 TDs the past 2 years. Unlike his WR counterpart, Donte Stallworth, Horn is tough and plays through injuries having only missed 1 game since 1997. A porous Saints defense forces the offense to throw often while playing catch up.

Negatives - QB Aaron Brooks is talented but terribly erratic killing many drives and offensive momentum. There is talk of implementing a new offensive game plan featuring more Deuce McAllister. While it’s a good move for the team, it may reduce the Saints passing attempts. Horn will be 33 this year and while he doesn’t miss games he has had a history of knee problems. There is also the possibility that talented but oft injured Donte Stallworth could finally play a full season thus reducing Brooks’ reliance on Horn.

Draft Strategy - In the first 3 rounds I wanted to secure 2 RBs and a top tier WR. After Horn I see a drop-off to the next tier with Walker’s holdout uncertainty, Wayne being a #2 on his team etc. Having to start 3 WRs I wanted a stud to build around. However, also available at this time was Rudi Johnson who was the #8 ranked RB last year. With a flex starter and Priest’s injury questions Rudi would have been great insurance, especially since RB starters will be thin when the draft comes back to me. I waiver before finally deciding on Horn but as soon as I make the selection my gut gives me the feeling I’ve made a mistake.