Sleeper Watch

During his first four years in the NFL, Nate Webster was a fantasy non-factor, posting an average of 26 solo tackles a season. It wasn’t a lack of talent or effort that kept his production down, however – that’s simply what happens when you’re behind a fellow named Derrick Brooks on the depth chart…

All that will change this season. Webster has left both Tampa Bay and second-stringer status behind, signing a five-year deal with the Bengals this off-season. In Cincinnati, he will take over as the team’s starting MLB, allowing Kevin Hardy to move back outside.

Known for playing his heart out on every down, Webster should be a good fit in Marvin Lewis’s revamped defense, and will be counted on to become one of the unit’s linchpins. With good toughness and excellent anticipation of developing plays, the former third-round pick out of Miami should enjoy a breakout campaign this year.

Just how productive Webster can be as a full-time starter remains to be seen. Expecting him to be among the league’s elite is probably asking a bit much, but he could easily turn into a solid fantasy contributor in IDP leagues. And without gaudy 2003 numbers, he may well be overlooked in this year’s drafts and still be available in the closing rounds.