Comments from Tony Finn - 6/27
FANTASY UPSIDE
Gonzalez is one of those versatile players, in the mold of the new breed of hybrid or H-backs that have found terrific success over the last three NFL seasons. Gonzalez has chiseled his way into Canton with a rare gift of size, speed and athleticism. He has excellent hands and creates mismatches across the board for defensive coordinators. He catches almost every pass he touches and is able to make the tough grab in a crowd. The Chiefs tight end is quick off the line and has speed to the crease. While his leaping ability has digressed over the last couple of seasons he is still a dangerous target in the red zone.
FANTASY DOWNSIDE
Defensive coordinators found that jamming Gonzalez on the line of scrimmage took he and quarterback Trent Green out of rhythm and reduced his production in the seam. His statistical fallout in 2005 can be directly connected to his age and a chronic arthritic ankle. Gonzo turned 30 in February and while many fantasy aficionados want to bracket running backs into a production vs. age container, it’s worth noting that tight ends over the age of 30-years have experienced a significant decline in production as well. Without Dick Vermeil and Al Saunders operating the offense in KC, Gonzalez’s 2006 snaps and receptions will again decrease.
MY BOTTOM LINE
The fact that Tony isn’t the most efficient run-blocker will result in less playing time and less chances in the new Solari offense. Expecting Edwards and OC Solari to be as aggressive as the departed Kansas City offensive brain trusts would be a mistake. Gonzalez doesn’t block well enough to please the new coaching staff, and his numbers will continue to head south. Gonzalez will be overvalued on reputation alone, and it‘s unlikely owners will get production value from Gonzo in 2006, especially with the depth at the tight end position. Gonzalez is still is one of the best in the game, but owners would be well served to pass on drafting tight ends until the middle rounds, a draft position where the Chiefs tight end won’t be available.
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