Sleeper Watch

Randy Moss’ costly interception late in the fourth quarter of Minnesota’s 23-27 loss to Seattle made the headlines and the highlight reels this week. While you’re watching the unusual play, take a close look at the defender who picked off the star receiver’s pass: you just might be looking at your fantasy team’s DB of the future.

With Terreal Bierria banged up and underperforming, Michael Boulware made his first start at strong safety on Sunday, and the results were impressive. Aside from that key interception, his fifth of the season, the rookie made eight tackles and picked up his first career sack, not a bad day by any IDP leaguer’s standards.

Many scouts had doubts that Boulware, an undersized linebacker at Florida State, would be able to make an impact at the NFL level. But shifted to safety, Boulware’s size is no longer a significant drawback, while his incredible athleticism and solid pass coverage skills will continue to serve him well.

Michael Boulware faces the New York Jets, Arizona and Atlanta in the season’s three remaining weeks, and could be a solid IDP plug-in if you have holes in your defensive backfield. And if you’re already looking toward 2005 and beyond in a dynasty format, adding Boulware now could pay off handsomely in the future.