2009 Fantasy Football Player Profile-Calvin Johnson

WR Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions

2008 Stats: 78 receptions, 1331 receiving yards, 12 TDs
Projected 2009 Stats: 84 receptions, 1499 receiving yards, 14 TDs
Projected Fantasy Round: 4th Round
Wide Receivers to be picked ahead of Calvin Johnson: Reggie Wayne, Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, etc.

Fantasy Outlook:

Why you should draft Calvin Johnson: Last season, Johnson was the lone bright spot on the 0-16 Lions.  In 2008, Johnson roared to the tune of 1331 receiving yards, which included him clawing his way past triple figures in receiving yards in five games.   Johnson was also able to haul in at least six receptions in six contests despite being double teamed during the coin flip and triple teamed once the game was underway.

Why you may want to stay away from drafting Calvin Johnson: Another year, same old story…Detroit still appears years away from having their quarterback situation resolved.  Consequently, Johnson will not have the luxury of having a franchise quarterback throwing him the ball in 2009.  With Roy Williams going to Dallas in the middle of last season, look for Johnson to see even more double and triple coverage this year. 

Bottom Line: If Johnson had Peyton Manning or Tom Brady as his quarterback, he would easily be one of the top three fantasy wideouts.  However, since he doesn’t have either of them on his squad, he should be viewed as top ten wide receiver in fantasy that (through no fault of his own)won’t live up to his top five potential.