My early prediction for top sophomore Fantasy RB in 22'
This really came down to three choices for me. Najee Harris, Elijah Mitchell and Javonte Williams. While Harris had the most productive season of the three RBs, they each flashed signs that they have the potential to put up big numbers and be workhorse backs. In 17 games played Harris had 10 total TDs, rushed for 1,200 yards and had 74 receptions for another 467 yards. In 17 games played Williams had 7 total TDs, rushed for 903 yards and added 43 receptions for 316 yards. In 11 games played Mitchell had 6 total TDs, rushed for 963 yards and grabbed 19 receptions for 137 yards.
Elijah Mitchell, San Francisco 49ers
This easy prediction here would have been Harris. I personally don't like going with the popular opinion and I believe I can make a strong case for picking Mitchell. I'm sure you will let me know if I'm wrong. So what sticks out that makes me think he's in line for the bigger sophomore fantasy football season than Harris and Williams?
Numbers Don't Lie - Based on his per game averages, Mitchell would've reached over 1,450 rush yards (would've been 2nd in the league - Jonathan Taylor #1) and 8 TDs if he had played the same 17 games as Harris and Williams. In 7 of his 11 games he rushed for over 85 yards, eclipsed 100 yards in 5 of those 11 and gained over 115 in 3 of them. And he did all that with only 49% of the teams snaps on offense.
The 49ers O-Line - The 49ers offensive line is considered by many as one of the best units in the league. The Pro Football Focus 2021 final O-Line rankings have them ranked 3rd and that was without RT Mike McGlinchey for nine games. PFF also awarded LT Trent Williams a final grade of 98.3. That's the highest of any player at any position in 21'. I expect the nasty, grown man blocks to continue in San Francisco with Williams leading the way for Mitchell to have a monster year.
Sure Hands - Even though Mitchell only had 19 catches in 21' there's reason to believe he could take a big step forward in the 49ers passing game. For starters I expect that he'll serve as a safety blanket for QB Trey Lance, especially early in the season. More importantly though of ALL RBs leaguewide with 20 or more targets Mitchell had the highest catch rate at a whopping 95%. I expect Shanahan to find more ways to get the ball in his hands through the air.
Stats Prediction
The film for Mitchell speaks for itself. The guys is a stats machine. He just needs to stay on the field
Rushing Yards - Over 1,200
Rushing TDs - Over 8
Receptions - Over 40
Receiving Yards - Over 250
I could be wrong but I believe Elijah Mitchell is going to have a breakout sophomore season behind the ultra aggressive rushing attack of Kyle Shanahan and the 49ers highly touted O-Line. He will be the catalyst for many league champions in 22'.
Comments