Can Rob Gronkowski and Jimmy Graham repeat their 2011 performance?
Rob Gronkowski
Rizzla: No, Rob Gronkowski is unlikely to repeat his outstanding performance this year. While I still think he has the highest TD upside of all tight ends his yardage will likely regress with new weapons for Tom Brady to throw to. I have him projected for 1,152 yards and 15 TD’s, still numbers that warrant a 2nd round draft pick in fantasy football drafts.
Zach: Probably not. The main reason is because Brandon Lloyd is now in town. Gronk won’t get the attention he did last season, at least outside of the red-zone. He’s still likely to be Tom Brady’s favorite target inside the 20 yard line and on goal-line plays. Remember, Gronk’s 2011 season was record-breaking. Not many record-breaking seasons have been duplicated the following year.
Jimmy Graham
Rizzla: Yes, Jimmy Graham can easily repeat his 2011 performance. He is actually the Saints number one receiver and is the player Drew Brees loves to pass to the most. He is basically a 6’7 receiver with hops. I am not sure he will match his 149 targets this season but 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns seems well within the realm of possibility for this still learning tight end.
Zach: I think it’s a definite possibility. At least more of a possibility than Gronkowski has. Graham is hands-down the favorite target of quarterback Drew Brees, and deservedly so. At 6’7”, 265 lbs., Graham is a nightmare for any defense, especially near the end-zone. Plus, aside from the coaching staff, nothing has really changed for the Saints’ offense. I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see numbers similar to 2011.
