Posted by theidpguru on Aug 18, 2022; 9:48pm
URL: https://forum.idpguru.com/Jordan-Brooks-VS-Bobby-Wagner-tp4029543p4029545.html

I outlined my thought process in the draft guide. Here's the excerpt below:

"Although he's long been an LB1 fantasy linebacker, some may be surprised Wagner sits at the top spot in my rankings given his age (32) and the fact he's entering into his 12th season. However, the move from the Seahawks to the Rams should actually help bolster his production. LA runs a ton of one-LB sets and Cover 2 coverage schemes, both factors that have shown to increase tackle efficiency and production. He's also moving to a more generous/somewhat less assist-heavy home stat crew which is another added bonus. This combination of low risk, increased upside makes Wagner my #1 overall fantasy linebacker in 2022."

The Rams system is primed for a stud fantasy linebacker to emerge. The issue has been an extreme lack of talent at the position over the last couple years. Wagner corrects that. He's also one of the games smartest players, so I'm not worried about the defensive scheme transition.

I agree on the upside for Brooks and have him as a top 5 linebacker, so we are kind of splitting hairs there. I don't see much downside in Wagner, however. He's as consistent as they come and still graded out as a top 15 LB while earning a trip to the Pro Bowl.