Sleeper Watch

Granted, a quarterback who led the NFL in interceptions a year ago and finished 27th in passer rating might not sound like the player you want as your fantasy QB, but in spite of his 2004 numbers, Kerry Collins looks like an intriguing option for the upcoming season. With an improving offensive line in front of him, a new running back taking some of the pressure off the passing game and the most exciting receiver in the league ready to wreak havoc in opposing secondaries, Collins might just be in exactly the right place at the right time.

The buzz in Oakland has centered on Randy Moss, understandably, and the former Viking should indeed click with his quarterback right off the bat. With a downfield arm, Collins has the skills to take advantage of Moss’ vast talent, and he’ll find plenty of opportunities to go deep. Additionally, the presence of Moss will create openings for Jerry Porter and Ronald Curry, two fine receivers in their own right.

But as much as the media has focused on Moss, the addition of LaMont Jordan may be even more important to the Raiders’s offense. With a legitimate ground attack, opposing defenses won’t be able to focus on Oakland’s receivers as much as they did last season, when Raiders rushers finished dead last with 80.9 yards per game.

And following a season of growing pains, the offensive line should also be considerably improved. With a year of experience under their belts, both Robert Gallery and underrated Jake Grove should be more comfortable in their roles as they head into their sophomore campaigns, and together form the nucleus of what could be a very solid line for years to come.

In other words, it looks like everything is coming up roses for Kerry Collins. If you focus on running backs and wide receivers early in the draft while other owners snatch up Peyton Manning, Daunte Culpepper & Co., keep Collins in mind when you’re ready to pick a passer.