Brent Celek Fantasy Potential

Tight End Brent Celek of the Philadelphia Eagles had a tremendous 2009 breakout season. Celek recorded 76 receptions for 971 yards with 8 touchdowns. Entering his 4th season at the ripe age of 25 Celek has plenty to build on. He developed a nice repoire with his quarterback Donovan McNabb last year, and is looking to do the same with the teams “hopeful” quarterback of the future, Kevin Kolb.

Last season Celek proved to the world of fantasy that he can hang with the big boys. Putting up 973 points (in standard scoring) he fell just 200 pts shy of the league leader Antonio Gates who had 1157 points; 79 receptions, 1157 yards, 8 touchdowns.

A looming question that rests at the forefront of most minds pondering Brent Celek, is the play of the Eagles quarterback. It goes without saying that McNabb has an incredible ability to stretch the field, arguably so, much greater than Kevin Kolb does. For now at least (like most developing QB’s), Kolb favours the high percentage quick release throws. However, this shouldn’t affect Celek’s potential in the slightest way.

Although he has great hands, speed, versatility, and strength, what makes Celek so valuable as an offensive weapon is his ability to pick up yards after the catch (YAC= the most important stat in football… to some) his career average is astounding at 5.5. The quick accurate throws of Kolb should only help to further his success as a playmaker. His potential to haul in the big receptions may dwindle, but his number of receptions should skyrocket which could mean big things in PPR leagues.

Last season Kolb played two full games with Celek, his stat line through those games: 16 receptions, 208 yards, and 1 touchdown. Kolb clearly enjoys Celek’s presence on field, and I’d be willing to bet that the feeling is mutual.

Celek’s average rank in the realm of fantasy is TE#6, just below the likes of Dallas Clark, Antonio Gates, Vernon Davis, Jermichael Finley, and Jason Witten. This lofty company is well deserved, and Celek should be able to stay part of this crew for some time to come.

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