Aug 17, 2012
The Chiefs star wide receiver signed a $9.5 million tender, sealing him as Kansas City’s top pass catching option and a good bet to deliver a solid 2012-2013 fantasy football stat line. He may not be the consistent option that gives you solid production on a weekly basis, but in the end, his numbers will be there (averages roughly 1000 yards and 8 touchdowns per season).
Bowe signing his tender results in an increase for every member of the Chiefs offense. Matt Cassel adds an elite down field threat to an underrated set of targets that includes a sleeper I love in Jon Baldwin. The Chiefs may have a strong running game, but it is the type of backfield that has quality runs, as opposed to a quantity of runs. In a pass first league, and with an explosive run game that must be respected, Cassel could approach his numbers (3693 yards and 21 touchdowns) from his breakout season in New England.
Jamaal Charles also will benefit from this signing, as it will be impossible to load up the box to prevent the home run play. He should average 15-20 touches per game, and I’ll gladly take my chances with him satisfying fantasy owners that spent a 2nd of 3rd round pick on him. With Bowe attracting attention from the second level of defenders, it will be just a matter of time (assuming he stays healthy) before your Charles investment pays high end dividends.
Finally, this is a HUGE upgrade for Jon Baldwin. The 23 year old product of Pittsburgh disappointed last year, as he battled injuries and inconsistencies. But he is healthy now, and with safeties shading toward Bowe’s side of the field, I expect big plays to become a theme for the 6’4″ athlete. He may not provide you with enough production to make him a regular starter, but his size and athleticism give him tremendous upside on a weekly basis. It is worth noting that his best game last year (5 catches for 82 yards and a TD) came against the Chargers, a team Kansas City plays twice during a very favorable first 9 weeks of the season.
