Seattle was cautious with their athletic rookie during the first half of last season, but opened up the playbook for him in the second half to devastating effect -- from weeks 13 to 17 Wilson was fantasy's top-scoring pivot. His impressive late-season progression points to a strong 2013 and makes Wilson a clear top-12 QB.
A surprise choice to play behind Russell Wilson, Quinn is a more stationary quarterback who's shown no ability to perform at the pro level. He was dreadful as the Chiefs' starter in 2012 and Seahawks fans will hope he's asked to do nothing more strenuous than hold a clipboard this season. Expect Tavaris Jackson to quickly overtake him for the backup job.
An elite talent who has been dominant the last two years, Lynch should be a no-brainer pick in the first round of fantasy drafts. The only possible wrinkle is the looming spectre of league discipline stemming from DUI charges last year. No trial date has yet been set and Lynch has filed a motion to have his case dismissed. Under the league's substance abuse policy, players are typically only fined for a first time DUI offense. However, Lynch has been suspended before. If he's found guilty this time, he could face a lengthy suspension as a repeat offender under the league's personal conduct policy.
Turbin averaged 4.4 yards per carry his first season in the league and is set to return this year as Marshawn Lynch's backup. He could eventually face competition from rookie Christine Michael once the former Aggie gets comfortable with the playbook and improves his pass blocking.
Michael's power and raw ability paint a bright picture of his NFL future; concerns about his character paint a much cloudier one. He'll need to grown up fast in Seattle and avoid the off-field issues that plagued him during college. If he can do that, he has the potential to push for regular playing time as early as this season (with the added prospect of earning a starting role further down the road).
Harvin's injury preserves Tate's spot in the starting lineup and makes him an intriguing, high-upside choice who could fly under the radar in upcoming fantasy drafts. Camp reviews suggest the lighbulb has turned on for Tate. He's been the most impressive player in camp after a mildly disappointing start to his pro career. Remember this is a kid who caught 93 balls and 15 TDs his junior year at Notre Dame. Tate has all of the big four going for him. Talent + Opportunity + Pedigree + Contract Year = Stars Aligned for Golden Tate to be a solid WR3 for your fantasy team this season.
