Late-Round Defensive Linemen Options for 2012 fantasysharks.com Mon 8/20/12 6:00 AM

The defensive line position offers a variety of options to consider when looking for late-round value to bolster an Individual Defensive Player (IDP) fantasy squad. First and foremost, it is again vital to have a firm grasp of the league scoring format and then formulate a draft strategy accordingly. Sack production is invariably going to be rewarded with higher points in nearly every league, but also knowing what the actual point totals are for solo tackles and assists can help to move certain players into a position of value fantasy wise. Many leagues also will break down the defensive line into the defensive end and defensive tackle designations, and a certain number of each are required in starting lineups. There will be a spattering of both defensive ends and tackles examined here and for the purposes of this article; the positions will be collapsed into one list. So keep that in mind when considering the names and how they can fit into your league's format. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE, New York Jets: Wilkerson was a first-round draft selection by the Jets in 2011 (30th overall) and had a very nice rookie season. He was on the field for nearly 60 percent of the defensive snaps and accounted for 48 total tackles, forced a fumble and had three sacks. Reports are that he is fully recovered from a June car accident and is a full participant in training camp. Standing 6-foot-4, and weighing in at 315 pounds, Wilkerson is a physical beast that creates a mismatch along the defensive front. He has the size and physical strength to stand his ground, set the edge and offer run support while possessing surprising speed for a man his size. He is able to get past offensive linemen with a nice burst and has the opportunity to absolutely surpass the three-sack total he put up last season. If rookie Quinton Coples can fulfill on his potential and Aaron Maybin can continue his career resurgence, Wilkerson will benefit from the attention they warrant from opposing lineman as well. The New York coaching staff is talking about keeping him on the field for 80 percent of the snaps in 2012. That equals a nice jump in fantasy production. His current ranking fluctuates between the late 40s to as low as the 70s among defensive linemen, and he will outperform those rankings easily. Nick Fairley, DT, Detroit: While Fairley has not been in the league very long, his name has been in the news so much that it seems like he's been around awhile. Unfortunately, the headlines have ...

Jets reach agreement on 4-year deal with first-round pick brunoboys.net Thu 5/17/12 10:07 PM

New York Jets first-round draft pick Quinton Coples has agreed to a four-year contract with the team, multiple outlets reported Thursday.