Vick is a great player, but as we saw last season, he has issues with staying healthy. Thanks to his offensive line. The Philadelphia quarterback was running for his life behind a porous line that couldn't keep him upright all year long.
Thanks to his mobile, game-changing style, Vick suffered an injury, missing time early in the season and looking like a battered man by the Eagles' final game against the Green Bay Packers. The quarterback is an enticing investment, but the reality is that you aren't sure what you're going to get from the explosive superstar.
When you draft a quarterback, you need to get a player that will be under center each and every week, playing consistently, something Vick didn't do last season. I am not saying to avoid him completely, but as an owner, you have to take a long, hard look at your roster before taking the plunge on the Philadelphia signal caller.
If you have the depth and scoring ability to handle an injury to Vick, then by all means, take a risk on him. But if you are thinking about reaching for the quarterback early on, perhaps opting for Vick instead of a running back in the first round, I strongly suggest you do otherwise.
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You can get solid quarterback play later in the draft, and while Vick could give you some of the best fantasy performances of the year, you'll be worried about his health all season long. The Eagles quarterback has a high ceiling, but the floor can be so dangerously low that it makes him a risky investment.
As an owner, you have to worry about these sorts of things when you craft a team, and in terms of slam dunks, Vick isn't near the top of the list. When you sit down to draft your squad, start with a solid running back, and allow the cards to fall where they may.
You don't want to force the issue for Vick, only to be left with a banged up quarterback, and no running back depth to carry the load while your signal caller nurses his wounds. If you want to win a fantasy league, you don't need to be spectacular. Your team just has to have solid depth and you'll find yourself in a position to do something truly great.
Vick is flashy, but as we saw last year, his playing style and offensive line will give you headaches as a fantasy owner.
- Tom Kinslow