STOCKS on Wall Street aren’t the only ones taking a nosedive. LaDainain Tomlinson’s production has dropped as quick as our 401k. After peaking in 2006 with an average of nearly 27 points a game, his numbers returned to believable levels last season at just above 18.
And though maintaining such a high standard is a lot to ask, a seven-point dropoff has been an unwelcome surprise, the loss of FB Lorenzo Neal not withstanding. The slide has some fantasy owners wondering if they should deal what was the top pick in many drafts.
But before you sell while his value is at an all-time low, take a peek at his upcoming schedule. With the Saints tomorrow in London and the Chiefs awaiting after a bye, his value easily could rebound. Only the Steelers in Week 11 and the Buccaneers in Week 16 can boast of stalwart run defenses (be aware, Week 16 is many fantasy title games).
If you have a stable of RBs and can afford to deal L.T., make sure you cash in on his name recognition. Just because his value has dropped doesn’t mean your asking price has to.
If you find no takers, stick it out at least for the next few weeks. With a couple big games under his belt, he’ll again demand a collection of top-tier talent in return. At that time, pull the trigger, because even though L.T. will explode now and again, we believe his days of dominating the fantasy landscape are behind him.
BIG WEEKS
RB Thomas Jones (Jets, vs. Chiefs); RB Steve Slaton (Texans, vs. Bengals); QB Jason Campbell (Redskins, at Lions); WR Bryant Johnson (49ers, vs. Seahawks)
BIG WEAKS
QB Peyton Manning (Colts, at Titans);
QB David Garrard (Jaguars, vs. Browns); RB Michael Turner (Eagles, vs. Falcons); RB Marion Barber
(Cowboys, vs. Buccaneers)