Sleeper Watch

Need a late boost for your IDP unit? Take a look at how Indianapolis safety Bob Sanders has been performing lately.

Pressed into service when starter Mike Doss went down with a groin injury, Sanders has been nothing short of spectacular. In the last three weeks, the second-round pick out of Iowa has averaged eight solo tackles per game, a very impressive number for a defensive back, and also recovered two fumbles, one of which he ran back for a touchdown as the Colts demolished the Texans last Sunday.

That performance made Sanders the top fantasy defender that week, and it now looks as if he might have the opportunity to return to the IDP charts. Even though Doss is expected to play in this week’s tilt with Chicago, it looks as if Sanders won’t head back to the bench.

Finding defensive backs who produce consistently isn’t easy, which makes players such as New England’s Rodney Harrison or Minnesota’s Antoine Winfield such valuable assets. If you didn’t pick up one of the elite DBs in the draft, take a chance on Bob Sanders, particularly in leagues with tackle-heavy scoring systems. If he keeps seeing consistent playing time, he could be one of the best IDP waiver pickups of the year.