Survivor I - Rod Smith Commentary

NOTE: this draft was completed on 7/24

Recent Stats

YR	RSH	RSHYD	RSHTD	REC	RECYD	RECTD	FPT	RANK
2002	6	9	0	89	1027	5	133.6	22
2003	10	98	0	74	845	3	115.9	25
2004	5	33	0	79	1144	7	159.7	15

Positives - Rod Smith is a consistent, productive veteran receiver on a good offensive team. He has seen an increase in fantasy production over the last two years and has averaged 80 receptions over his last three. Smith is still the #1 wide receiver for Denver, despite Ashley Lelie’s emergence. I don’t anticipate that changing anytime soon. The departure of Shannon Sharpe last season meant an increase in nearly 300 yards receiving and 4 touchdowns for Smith. The 35-yr old remains on pace to be Jake Plummer’s go-to guy, especially in the red zone.

Negatives - Rod Smith is 35 and is only getting older. He can’t keep the #1 wide receiver role forever. Although, Smith may not lose his #1 position this season, Ashley Lelie is emerging as a threat to his production and could decrease his overall numbers.

Draft Strategy - After going QB, WR, RB, RB, I needed to solidify another strong, capable, productive WR for my team. Rod Smith, Jimmy Smith, Derrick Mason, Chris Chambers, Deion Branch were among the better wide receivers available. Why did I choose Rod Smith? After having a sub-par 2003 season, Smith rebounded nicely in 2004 becoming the 15th best wide receiver. The only wideout with a better season ending rank that was still available was Brandon Stokley. I’ll take the more polished, consistent, #1 receiver over any #3 receiver every time.