Texans’ Johnson on a mission

Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is a player who will typically be drafted toward the end of the fourth round (possibly later) in most fantasy drafts. A major reason for that is the fact he’s been bitten by the injury bug on two different occasions during his five-year career. With that said, it’s important to look beyond those injuries as you sort through the various rankings and projections that will be released in the coming months.

In the first two games of 2007-08, he had a combined 14 receptions for 262 yards and three touchdowns. After an unfortunate injury that sidelined Johnson through Week 11, he jumped back on the scene with six catches for 120 yards and a touchdown. In the end, Johnson ended the season with 60 grabs for 800-plus yards and eight scores.

Even though he’s already made a name for himself, this might be the year Johnson goes from being a really good wide receiver to en elite player who could have a tremendous fantasy impact.

With its first pick in April's NFL draft, Houston drafted offensive lineman Duane Brown, a former standout at Virginia Tech. Assuming Brown fares well for the Texans, he'll bolster a line that has historically been prone to allowing sacks; extra time in the pocket for a QB means extra time for a wideout to get open, which would obviously give Johnson a chance to thrive.

Moreover, last season’s signing of Kevin Walter provided an additional threat on the opposite side of the field, meaning it’ll be difficult to consistently double-down on Johnson without being burned by Walter. Tight end Owen Daniels and running back Ahman Green are also viable threats who will prevent defenses from keying in on Johnson.

In short, don't be surprised if 2008 is a banner season for Johnson, who's capable of 1,300-plus receiving yards and double-digit TDs. Crazy as this might sound, one should seriously consider drafting him as early as the end of the second round in fantasy drafts.

(realfootball365.com)