IDP Analysis: Top 50 IDP Rookies

The world of IDP can be a fickle mistress and its landscape changes from year to year.  Defensive schemes from college to the pros are definitely something to keep an eye on. But most importantly, opportunity.  Will the top LB get a chance to start right away?  Is he going from a 3-4 scheme to a 4-3 scheme?  Is that player talented enough to make the transition from college to the pros?  As dynasty leagues become increasingly popular, you must follow these rookies and find those players that have the talent, but have also found themselves in the ideal situation so that you can build your defensive corps for years to come.  Just because there’s a lockout, it doesn’t mean rookie drafts are being put on hold.  Here are my top 30 IDP rookies for the 2011 season…

1. Mason Foster, LB, TBB: As of now Barrett Rudd is slated for free agency and GM Mark Dominik has hinted that he wants Foster starting at MIKE, but he could find himself on the weak-side if the Bucs pluck one of the free agent middle linebackers from free agency.  Either way, this kid has talent and finds himself on a youthful Tampa defense that is ready to dominate.  He should be one of the first rookie IDPs off the board.

2. Martez Wilson, LB, NOS: Another future middle linebacker has found himself in a great situation.  Wilson can play all over the field, so that versatility will help get him on the field for more snaps, which is a great situation for dynasty owners.  As of now, he’ll play on the outside of Jonathan Vilma and will help shore up what was a weakness for the Saints; the outside LB spot.  Wilson has a mentor in Vilma and could find himself at MIKE sooner than later.

3. Nate Irving, LB, DEN: With Denver moving back to a 4-3 scheme, Irving has a shot at being a starter right away, either at MIKE or WILL (weak-side).  As of now, DJ Williams is going to start at MLB, but there’s the possibility that Irving could get the job.  Either way, he finds himself in a position to help Denver’s defense and his dynasty owners in 2011.

4. Colin McCarthy, LB, TEN: With Stephen Tulloch’s status with the team up in the air (due to the lockout), McCarthy’s motor could drive him into the starting lineup, especially since Tennessee’s linebacker corps, as a whole, is a bit of a mess.  The Titans loved his versatility and ability to play all linebacker positions across the board. And with Gerald McRath and Rennie Curran in tow, Stephen Tulloch doesn’t appear to be part of the plans.  McCarthy has a good drive and nose for the ball and should make most of his opportunities in the Music City.

5. Jaiquann Jarrett, S, PHI: He and Nate Allen will be the safety tandem in Philly, as it looks like the Eagles are ready to part ways with Quintin Mikell.  Jarrett’s a solid tackler and should fit right into Philly’s aggressive defense scheme.  He’ll be a starter at strong safety from the get go, and should be able to produce IDP-viable digits from opening kick-off.

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Thanks for reading as always.  For questions or comments, feel free to e-mail me at mike@fantasyfootball.com.  Follow me on Twitter @MentalAcumen