Running Back 14 – J.K. Dobbins BAL
J’Kaylin Dobbins started eight games last season, but put up worse numbers than his rookie year when he started one game. He tore his ACL in 2021, and didn’t return until week 3, 2022. He then suffered a setback and missed four games before returning to play late in the season, including the wild-card loss. He finished the season with 99 touches, 562 yards, and three touchdowns. He only had seven receptions last year, and camp rumors stated Dobbins was working on catching while not cleared for contact practices.
Dobbins is no longer on the PUP list, and has not been since August 14th. Gus Edwards is the back up running back (RB) but took a pay-cut and may have difficulty finding touches in new Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s offense. All the buzz is about Monken and his passing offense, particularly with rookie Zay Flowers having an impressive camp. Others are concerned that Lamar will eat into Dobbins production. While both are being discussed, and have legitimate truth, Baltimore will not leave their running game. If anything the presence of great receivers and an elite tight end should open up the running game for Dobbins. The former Buckeye is due for a healthy season, and to have his greatest fantasy football impact. A 1,000 yard and 9+ touchdown season is well within range for Dobbins, and the best part is his ADP is currently RB 19-25! Grab this bargain late and have a RB with a high ceiling.

Linebacker 14 – Quay Walker GB
Put simply, Quay Walker is a walking monster at linebacker (LB). 6′ 4″ 240 pounds means he is larger than your average LB, but still has the quickness and athletic ability to cover tight ends and play zone. He also has the size to shove off offensive lineman, meet the running back in the gap, and bring them to the ground. Walker had some discipline issues and was ejected in two games last season. He was a rookie and he should be more mature, or at the very least, learned to control his emotions better. He has taken a few snaps with the green dot in the pre-season, but even if he does not have the communication helmet he will likely see several snaps.
Walker played in all 17 games, started in 16 and recorded 121 combined tackles, had 7 passes defended, 5 tackles for loss, 4 QB hits, 3 forced fumbles, 1.5 sacks, and 1 fumble recovery. That is an impressive stat line, but especially for a rookie. He should improve in knowledge and skill in 2023. Walker was taken with the 22nd overall pick out of Georgia, which was loaded with defensive studs. Walker is one of three former Bulldogs drafted in the first round by the Packers in the past three years, and will be the statistical leader of all three. Look for Walker to have a big year with over 150 tackles, add to his passes defended total, and have a couple turnovers.

Thank you for reading Mano y Mano. Check in tomorrow for RB & LB #13.
Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy

*Stats come from FantasyPros, Pro Football Reference, Sleeper, Statmuse, and NFL/Next Gen.
*Rankings are based on .5 PPR format and FF7s.