Formations Fantasy Football Review: Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders continue to struggle in the strong AFC West. While this looks to happen again in 2014, do they have players that can help your fantasy team?

Star: James Jones (WR)

13 Stats: 59 catches-817 yards-3 TDs (with GB)

Why He’s a Star: With the Raiders this year, star is a relative term. There’s nobody on their team that’s going to win you a fantasy trophy. The player with the most potential to be an okay fantasy player is James Jones. He’s always been a complimentary player with the Packers, but now he moves to a full time role with the Raiders. He’s a long shot to reach 1,000 yards, but he’s the best hope here.

Avoid: Darren McFadden (RB)

13 Stats: 114 carries-379 yards-5 TD

Why to Avoid: McFadden has struggled mightily in the past 3 years. He has missed 19 games over that span. In the past year, he hasn’t even averaged a 3.5 YPC. McFadden now finds himself in a RBBC with Maurice Jones-Drew. Neither will put up big numbers, but if I had to pick one, I’d go with the former Jaguar.

Sleeper: Matt Schaub (QB)

Why He’s A Sleeper: Schaub struggled not only with injuries but also throwing to the correct team as well in 2013. He is now starting (for now) in the Oakland Raiders offense which should focus on the run. When they do throw, the QB should be more conservative than he was with the Texans. While Schaub is not a fantasy starter, he is worth a spot start when your starter has a bye.

IDP to Watch: Nick Roach (LB)

13 Stats: 83 tackles-29 assists-5.5 sacks

Why: Roach broke out in his first year with the Raiders. After spending the first six years of his career with the Bears, he put up career numbers in tackles, assists, and sacks. While it’s not wise to draft many Raiders on offense, load up on defense. They should be on the field a lot.

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