Buy, Hold, or Sell
June 16, 2009 at 7:24 am | Article by Brian Wolf |
Print This Page
| 
Dynasty and keeper owners have questions about several players heading into the 2009 season. Many young wide receivers have oodles of potential that has yet to be reached. In this week’s “buy, hold or sell,” we examine two guys that could totally go either way.
Robert Meachem
In 2007, Robert Meachem was selected by the Saints and many dynasty owners crowned him the next
great wide receiver. Up to now, however, Meachem has done little more than accept his role as a
backup WR. Opportunities have presented themselves time and time again, yet Meachem hasn’t been
able to make the step.
Is it premature to call Meachem a bust? Maybe. He is 24, and this year will be his third year
in the league, and we all know that the third year is the breakout year for WRs. But I’m
convinced that Meachem doesn’t have the mental fortitude and desire to be a star in this league.
His mental mistakes on the field and his lack of competitive drive to earn a role on the team are
very concerning. In 2007 his surgery and injury plagued him, but in 2008 Meachem blew an
opportunity to earn significant playing time. His 12 catches and 289 yards was a huge
disappointment. Players drafted in his class like Calvin Johnson, Ted Ginn, Anthony Gonzalez,
Dwayne Bowe, and Steve Smith all of whom have shown more promise, and Meachem is quickly moving
in the direction of a draft “bust”.
Meachem is a SELL at this point. Once again we’re hearing great things about Robert Meachem in
the offseason, but don’t buy it for a second. Devery Henderson’s four year contract was a clear
signal from the coaching staff that they too, have little faith in Meachem. Unless you’re in a
DEEP league, it’s time to move on.
Mark Clayton
I remember in 2007, we at No-Offseason were salivating at the prospects of young Mark Clayton
turning into a star WR. His 67 catches and 939 yards were a great year for second year wideout.
However, plagued by injuries, Clayton has only amassed 3 TDs in the last two seasons.
Clayton is entering a contract year, and will undoubtedly be motivated. He has a lot to prove
and this year may be his last chance to make his leap. The Ravens showed some faith in him by
not picking a WR in the draft, nor by adding any free agents. We also think that Joe Flacco
will help Clayton immensely this year. Clayton’s previous quarterbacks included such gems as
Troy Smith, and Kyle Boller. Steve McNair, a former MVP, was the one who was at the helm when
Clayton had his breakout year. Since then the QB position in Baltimore has left something to be
desired. Derrick Mason also is not getting any younger, and the lack of additions means that
Clayton’s role should grow.
Mark Clayton is CHEAP…maybe even waiver wire cheap in most leagues. If you have a spot and want
a flyer, we say BUY on Mark Clayton for the first few weeks of the season. He has the potential
for a strong season with the upside of a WR2/3 and at the very least should be a nice WR4 or 5 to
have you on your squad. Our only warning as we move toward the preseason is to watch his
injuries.
To discuss this topic and more, visit our forums.
Related posts
Loading ...
