Justin Hardy will be a top College Fantasy Football option in 2014

(updated Jan. 11, 2014)

Quarterbacks

Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel and Brett Smith of Wyoming opted to forgo another season of college in pursuit of the NFL, but the position is still deep in top-tier talent. Mariota chose to return for another season, which makes the dual-threat an easy choice to stand atop the rankings. Old Dominion will be FBS-eligible next fall, making Heincke available in all leagues. Winston, the defending Heisman Trophy winner, returns more experienced and with even more firepower. There is little chance Carden and his Air Raid numbers will be overlooked like they were in most drafts last year. Reynolds and his option wizardry could produce close to 40 TDs if Navy throws the ball more. Marshall averaged at least 28.57 points per game down the stretch; once he improves his accuracy, he could be considered a top five producer.  Outside Looking In: Marshall’s Rakeem Cato struggled at times last season, but had at least 32.2 points in five of his last six games. He would be a lock in the top 10 if he were an effective runner, yet remains a worthy pick. Freshman of Influence: Texas’ Jerrod Heard will be a factor in the race for starter, along with returning David Ash (provided his concussion issues are settled) and sophomore Tyrone Swoopes, who is brimming with talent. Many consider Heard – who could be enrolled in time for spring practice — the Longhorns’ best QB prospect since Vince Young.

Running Backs

The early departures of Kapri Bibbs (Colorado State), Ka’Deem Carey (Arizona), Tre Mason (Auburn) and Bishop Sankey (Washington) takes away four of the top five projected picks. Ajayi and Abdullah are worthy selections in the early rounds. Yeldon didn’t have the monster season many expected, yet he becomes a more featured piece of the offense with A.J. McCarron gone. A healthy Gurley translates into a darkhorse Heisman candidate; his numbers were impressive despite the time missed. Linwood put up impressive numbers when given the chance to play lead back; with Lache Seastrunk NFL-bound, the sophomore is in position for a breakout campaign. Outside Looking In: D.J. Foster of Arizona State gets his opportunity to shine now that Marion Grice is gone. Foster caught 54 passes last season, making him a sneaky play for those looking for an all-purpose back under the radar. Freshman of Influence: With Carey departing, Arizona coach Rich Rodriguez has his potential replacement in 4-star back Nick Wilson. Wilson has a similar build to Carey, but has home run speed that will allow him to make an immediate impact.

Justin Hardy won’t be overlooked in Fantasy Football in 2014. Photo Credit: Daniel E. Dobish

Wide Receivers

Goodley, who averaged over 20 yards per catch, becomes Baylor’s featured wideout. Translation: grab him early. Like Goodley, Hardy will benefit from having another season with his quarterback. The AAC lacks quality Fantasy talent, yet Greenberry is a star in the making and plays in an offense that will push him as a potential All-America candidate.  The SEC Title game was a close-up of what Green-Beckham can do. Expect him to be heavily targeted regardless as to who lines up at QB. Like his QB, Pinkard will be available in all leagues now that ODU will be officially an FBS program. Outside Looking In: Pittsburgh’s Tyler Boyd was one the nation’s top freshman (77-1,001-7) and could see his numbers increase with Devin Street heading to the NFL. Boyd was also a threat as a rusher, a facet that will put him among the top 20 WRs available. Freshman of Influence: Clemson recruit Artavis Scott will get a shot at replacing Sammy Watkins. Scott has the same build as Watkins and while he lacks the explosive speed of Watkins, he is more advanced as a complete receiver With both Watkins and Martavius Bryant gone to the NFL, Scott will walk into a starting role.

Tight Ends

Funchess is the clear choice as the top TE, especially since Devin Gardner won’t have Jeremy Gallon to throw to. Niklas will enhance his NFL potential with another season as a key target in the Irish’s passing attack. Williams pulled in a touchdown pass in Minnesota’s Texas Bowl loss to Syracuse and could have a much bigger role next season as the Golden Gophers look to open up their offensive attack. Keep an eye on James, who could thrive under new coach Nick Franklin’s up-tempo system. Outside Looking In: A strong finish by Pittsburgh’s Manasseh Garner could set the stage for a bigger 2014, especially with WR Devin Street graduating. Freshman of Influence: Florida State’s Mavin Saunders is a 6’6 target who is also a highly-regarded basketball player. Even with Nick O’Leary returning, Saunders has the athleticism to be an immediate factor in what is already a potent Seminoles passing assault.

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