The Chargers needed a deep threat to replace Vincent Jackson and may have found themselves quite a bargain in the talented Robert Meachem.
Meachem will slide into the number two role in this offense and has a chance to supplant Malcolm Floyd as the effective number one option before the season is complete.
Meachem goes from a crowded receiving corps in New Orleans to one with a gaping hole San Diego.
Conventional wisdom would suggest that leaving Drew Brees would be a detriment to any players fantasy value but the same cannot be said for Meachem who will be joining a less competitive situation with a QB that is just as good, if not better at finding his receivers downfield.
Fantasy Impact:
Robert Meachem – Meachem should step in as the number two receiver in this offense and post a YPC that will be among the league leaders. A 50+ reception, 900+ yard campaign seems all but assured if he stays healthy. Meachem looks like a flex with solid WR3 upside and will be on many sleeper lists leading up to draft season.
Malcolm Floyd – Floyd figures to open the season as the teams number one wideout target due to his familiarity with Phillip Rivers. Some may be bullish on Floyd’s fantasy stock next season, and they are not without good reason. He looks like a WR2 with a WR3 floor.
Ryan Mathews – Ryan Mathews fantasy value is not affected by this trade. He is likely headed for feature back carries in 2012. Mathews is an RB1 with a RB2 floor.
Antonio Gates – Antonio Gates’ role and targets will not be affected by this signing. Gates remains a TE1 with the potential to finish as a top three tight end.
