What’s going on, Rush Nation? Welcome to the first installment of the “Sleepy Series.” I analyze players to draft around the middle to end rounds of all defensive fantasy formats. This edition features players that play safety/defensive back position on your IDP rosters.

Sure, you have heard of the “zero RB” movement, but what about “zero IDP”? If you end up near the middle to end of your draft and look slim on the defensive side of the ball, this is the article/series for you, mate. 

Ever been in a draft where you completely neglected a position? I’m sure you didn’t mean to; you just put it off for a tad too long. Now you have left yourself to search around the draft pool hastily. Don’t draft a random human to whom you have next to no knowledge. Please stick with me and slot yourself a sleepy safety! 

The defensive backs mentioned below have the opportunity in front of them at the start of the season. Give them a go, and you may be surprised. 

If you aren’t familiar with our scoring system, here it is for you and the link to the article written by my friend Nath Davis. IDP + Scoring – A new UK industry standard

 

Ashtyn Davis, New York Jets

In 2020 Davis participated in four hundred and two snaps on the Jets defense. 36% in run defense, 12% in pass rush, and 52% in pass coverage. Eight total pressures are resulting in several hurries and one hit on the quarterback. Twenty-nine tackles and seven assisted tackles to add for the former California Golden Bear. Davis finished his year with only one missed tackle in eight games played. 

Current Situation

Ashtyn Davis is projected to start at the strong safety in a defense looking for a new identity. Expect newly appointed head coach Robert Saleh to use Davis in a blend of coverages and blitzes. 

Season Outlook

Davis’ ten solo and three-assisted tackle performance in week 11 was just a scene of what is to come of this young man. He has yet to tally a sack or an interception in his young career. If Davis can buy into the Jets’ new system, you will make others green with envy by having this sleepy gem of a human rostered.

 

Lonnie Johnson, Houston Texans

In 2020 Johnson totaled seven hundred and two snaps on defense for the Houston Texans. 33% in run defense, 4% in pass rush, and a whopping 63% in coverage. Four total pressures resulting in three hits and one hurry. In 2019 Johnson was responsible for nine touchdowns in coverage. In 2020 he was responsible for only one, and he was in coverage more often in 2020 than he was in 2019.

Current Situation

Lonnie Johnson is currently ahead of Terrance Brooks on Houston’s depth chart. He is a projected starter at safety for 2021. 

Season Outlook

Lonnie Johnson is an add toward the end of deep dynasty/Bestball leagues. Fellow starting Houston safety Justin Reid would be a safer and more consistent option. If Lonnie’s snaps become less coverage based I would expect his numbers to increase. Just something to keep an eye on heading into the 2021 season.

 

Anthony Harris, Philadelphia Eagles

Former Viking Anthony Harris had a career year in 2020. Combining for over one hundred combined tackles, and finished the year with a missed tackle percentage of 6.9%. 42% in run defense, 2% in pass rush, and 56% in coverage. Three pressures resulting in three hurries on the season as well.

Current Situation

Anthony Harris was just recently signed in March by the Eagles. He will start strong safety on a team looking to reclaim their ticket to the postseason after a one-year hiatus (2019 Wild Card loss to Seattle). 

Season Outlook

Look to add Harris in the later rounds in all formats. Do be cautious in dynasty formats as he was only signed to a one-year deal in Philadelphia. I expect Harris to have much of the same stats from last season as an every-down starter. He is a sneaky sleepy, shhhhh.

That’s all I have for you today, Rush Nation; a huge thank you for reading this. I hope it helps, and if you have any questions, feel free to message or interact with me on Twitter https://twitter.com/caliking49er17.