Robert Salinas
Writer
Rob is quite the nomad - born in Corpus Christi, raised in San Antonio, and has lived in Orlando, New Orleans, and Cleveland. While his personal favorite teams reside in his home state, he has a passion for cities that rally behind their teams, and found a home-away-from-home in New Orleans (he’ll be back, no doubt). He is motivated by season openers, game 7s, and most of all: food - there’s not a spicy chicken sandwich or cold brew that he’s not indulging in.
Growing up, my family had cookouts any time the sun was out and there was a reason to celebrate, which ranged from birthdays to holidays to just any weekend day where we were all awake and willing to congregate. These frequent get-togethers were a test of Darwin’s theory in the aspect of hunger. As soon as the fajitas were cooked, it was first-come first-served. Rice and beans are done – better get a plate and load up. Brisket done – you better believe some of the uncles and brothers were grabbing it hot from the grill, so even when it makes it inside it’s not untouched. Sometimes, when the timing was perfect, you could create a plated meal with an entrée, side, appetizer, all at the same time with a satisfying leaning-because-it’s-heavy paper plate. Timing is rarely perfect, so most times it was eat-when-done, or don’t eat at all. The outsiders- friends/spouses/neighbors - who were used to traditional, sit-down meals would learn very quickly that if you wait too long, you’re left with some bread, a tortilla, and maybe one flat cup of iced soda. I’ve seen more traction lately on the “Zero-RB” fantasy strategy as we get closer to the peak of fantasy draft season. From a non-expert who maybe plays 3-4 leagues a year at most, I was intrigued to research some of the success and community feedback around this strategy. Zero-RB does not mean you literally draft zero running backs to your team (please don’t), yet it assumes the theory that you can attain better value in your top picks by focusing on the standout players in other positions, needing to statistically find those boom-RBs in middle-to-late round picks. Let’s consider this year’s ADP, where most lists are roughly identical, which I’d bet that less than half of the top-20 players are running backs. Looking at last year, 3 of the top-5 projected backs actually matched that potential (CMC, Henry, Ekeler) with a few busts to consider like Jonathan Taylor and Najee Harris (both still inside the Top-20, but initially ranked within the Top-10). Looking at the lists of ADP vs output has some standout differences that do prove you can potentially find some great value in picks outside the traditional top-20 backs, however consistency is key in fantasy. FantasyPros accumulated the Boom-Bust Percentage in 2022 by player, where within the best five backs at the end of the season, the highest bust percentage was 7% (the top two backs saw ZERO busts). Your five best receivers in 2022 saw ranges of almost 20% bust ratios, with Justin Jefferson (the top receiver) having that exact ratio. Jefferson is sitting as the number one or two right now in most rankings, as he should, but if you asked me to plainly pick a player who might see 20% of their games underperforming or 0%, I choose the latter. Yet, I can’t deny that I wouldn’t leap at Jefferson as my top pick because, well, it’s Justin freakin’ Jefferson, and I in terms of WRs he’s the best bet. That’s why sometimes statistics and over-strategizing can get in the way of what you need to do as a fantasy manager, especially in your initial first picks that will yield you some of the best pieces of your team (hopefully). Does that mean you draft to fill positions first, then? Some players will tactfully fill their starters first before leaning on bench spots (i.e. getting their two RBs, their two WRs, their TE, etc. before drafting more backup spots). That strategy is almost less valuable, wasting precious roster space for best-available to fill unimportant voids that can probably be flexed or streamed if needed. Would you rather want a full plate of the hottest, most-tender brisket slices and have to decide if you want less of potato salad or beans later – or settle for a decent brisket slice now to portion out the sides and potentially go back for a colder, harder piece of meat? There’s stats and websites and rankings and everything in between to support one strategy or the other, but truly there’s no formula that can predict the outcome of the best strategy. That’s why Zero-RB shouldn’t be an option for you unless you want to mess around in your mock drafts (and what’s that saying currently trending right now - the more you [mess] around, the more you find out?). The most difficult piece for Zero-RB is that you need to NAIL those mid-round boom running backs, where in most cases even full-time analysts consistently miss the mark with projections year after year. Some individuals play in many different leagues (my close friend in particular plays at least 10 leagues every year), so in that case where maybe you have some leverage, get risky and have some fun if you want (in other words, go ahead and eff around to find out). When it comes to drafting though, I’d like to think you’re at the Salinas family cookout. You have to take the best dish available as soon as it hits the table. That fresh plate of Nick Chubb is going to go to Joe Schmoe if you decide to get cute, and you might miss out on an amazing anchor for your team. First-come, first-served. Make sure to follow Rob on Twitter.
We are hours away from the 2023 NBA Draft and bombs have already started dropping for this offseason. All eyes are on this stellar draft class and what teams are willing to move (or not) to acquire some of the better prospects we’ve seen in one classroom since 2003, at least based on hype alone. The only surefire turnout we know is the #1 spot. While one of the biggest names was taken off the board when Bradley Beal was shipped off to Hooters with Booker & Co., Zion Williamson once again has built traction to be a factor for a potential major offseason move. He has faced this unlikely rumor in years past with little belief that New Orleans would be silly enough to drop this franchise player, yet this year’s waiter has now brought out some dishes that were sizzling from the kitchen, and many heads are turning in curiosity to maybe, just maybe, change their usual order and try a taste. Did that make sense? I’m always hungry, but here are the 6 burning, immediate, critical questions that come to mind when considering what happens with Zion: 1. Should New Orleans even consider trading Zion? There’s always a price, so taking out the outrageous offers and considering viable, more- likely possibilities, is giving Zion away even a considerable position to think about? He was one of the most hyped #1 prospects since Lebron and promised to be a franchise-defining player. Health aside, it’s hard to ignore the efficiency and talent that Williamson has brought to the Pels (notably, when he was healthy this last season they were the top team in the West). The problem is, of course, that we can’t put health aside. In fact, that is the reason to juggle the thought of banking on another potential franchise-defining player. Zion sits with an attractive contract at a young age, so it might be too early to risk letting him go when he’s still an undeniable force on the court. If I had the chance to snag the #2 or #3 pick this year however, the price might be just right… 2. What happens to the banner? Look, I am from a town that relied on South Side murals to represent our team loyalty, spray painted on the sides of taquerias with chrome-like details that would translate wonderfully into airbrush tees sold at corner-street tents. Being in a city with a nationally top-prospect, immediately signed to a major brand somehow translates to a secret city club of skyscraper banners, shortly worded and larger than life. I never had that before, and it’s just cool as hell. When I moved to New Orleans, the Zion banner was a feat in and of itself for an outsider. Does it stay? Is another player the replacement (in which I say no, you just can’t have any player on a banner…right)? I like the idea of OG Pierre and King Cake Baby standing back-to-back on a mural that size just to incite terror. Don’t let me plan the banner. 3. What city will Zion Jr. be raised in? There’s something to growing up in a town with history, culture, the biggest and best celebration of the year, and some of the worst streets to drive on. Most families don’t flock to New Orleans as an ideal place to raise little ones, but when you have money I’m positive that you can eliminate some of the struggles others might face (school systems, childcare, etc.). I am in no place to assume, so from a point of ignorance, is it better to bring this new child into the world of New York, Portland, Charlotte? Maybe, but c’mon, it’s New Orleans. 4. Who else goes down with the ship? That might be dramatic phrasing, but there’s a chance that Zion alone might not be enticing enough to make a final deal. At that point, who else becomes available? Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones have proven to be amazing steals and viable assets, but is that price too high? Depending on the payoff, I am curious on who else might be on the table. The only players I feel confident about are Ingram, CJ, and Jose. That’s it. But even my confidence doesn’t guarantee the outlandish possibility that New Orleans can’t shake things up. 5. Is the Jordan Zion 3 still coming? I’m one to not care for non-Michael, Jordan-endorsed player shoe releases (i.e. any Jordans other than 1-14 including combos of any in that list: Spizikes, 6-Rings, etc.). But the Zion 2s released anime colorways. That’s cool. AND, they’re on sale right now. If Zion propels into a bigger market, is the Zion 3 inevitable? Do the Zion 2s go more on-sale? Will I buy them – no – but shoes maketh the man. 6. If it comes down to it – Scoot or Zion? The real reason why Zion is trending is the possibility of Portland or Charlotte opting to trade their top pick, which will very-well be Scoot Henderson. It’s a strong consensus that in pretty much any other non-Wemby year, Scoot is an undeniable #1. Brandon Miller also proves to be a potential franchise-player, and New Orleans could find itself with an offer for either one if they look to give up the injury-prone star power of Williamson. If I had to pick right now, and if it was down to one-for-one, Scoot somehow is too good to pass up. Seeing him develop next to BI and the growing core that the Pelicans have, along with some solid future draft capital, could prove to be beneficial in the long term. It’s rare you get to snag another number-one guy, and if the risks aligned with Zion could be swapped for that, I think I would bite…this year especially. That’s Scoot though, since there’s no real Miller-or- Zion conversion. Once Follow @RobSalin on Twitter
The best damn breakfast tacos in the world can be found in San Antonio, TX (this is a scientifically proven fact). I spent 23 years of my life in that beautiful city, and since moving away I have never been able to find anything in the spectrum of equivalent to those bean and cheese, chorizo and egg, greasy soaked-bag morning treats. I tried every “breakfast taco” and “breakfast burrito” joint in every city with every pocket of Mexican and tex-mex staples. I even tried making them at home to see if my culture would just miraculously flow through my veins instinctively with the ingredients, finding an unlocked talent from deep within my heritage and seeing the secret recipes in my head - just like the moment Alan realized he could count cards at the blackjack table in The Hangover . Through all these trials it took decades to eventually unlock this crucial life lesson: you can’t bring home with you. Don’t go looking for quality jambalaya in Cleveland, or fresh gulf-shrimp in D.C. Take the best of where you are. This unnecessary lengthy bridge into how this applies to the early-but-not-too-early world of fantasy football might simply be because I’m starving right now, or it just might be too much of a silly metaphor to stomach – regardless, here’s the Saints “homers” you need to think about when planning the New Orleans loyalty into your fantasy draft strategies: DEREK CARR – QB It might be tempting to buy in to arguably the biggest off-season signing for New Orleans. Carr is entering the dome with the catching 1-2-punch of the anticipated return of Michael Thomas and 2022 standout receiver Chris Olave (more to come on these guys), along with joining a coach he has a seemingly positive and trusting relationship with. With that, ESPN predicts the Saints also hold the 2nd-easiest schedule, proving to give Carr some groundwork as he eases into his new situation. It’s a juicy pick with a potential high ceiling, and most managers probably won’t consider him as a top piece to follow as their QB1 based on the output he’s delivered in his career. Last year, Carr yielded his 2nd-lowest QB rating since 2014 with a 60.8% completion rating even while partnered with all-star Devonte Adams. He has been sub-par fantasy-wise through most of his career, and definitely fell out of the top 20 rankings last year, making Carr solidified as a strong streamer or backup QB in most leagues. He is surrounded by an objectively better situation this year, yet I wouldn’t jump to trust a much higher ranking entering 2023 just yet. Personal QB PPR Rank: 20 ALVIN KAMARA – RB Off-season troubles have unfortunately shadowed the outlook of this once-perennial star back. With a not-so-great 2022 year within a position that typically trends down at his age, you combine a looming suspension that really creates some doubt in what we should expect from Kamara. As a player, Kamara can, and probably will, still deliver if he gets the chance to do so. Even though his tag of one the most reliable and best RB fantasy assets has dwindled, let’s not forget his 14-pt average he banked last year given probably one of the less-talented offensive groups the Saints have had with him at the helm. He did show more struggles with his solely-running capabilities given that much help did not come from the OL, and also with time this is expected. As a reliable pass-catching back, Kamara can easily thrive as a solid RB2 option. Williams in the mix makes for an intriguing combo for the backfield, but it’s hard to ignore the possibility of a major suspension impacting Kamara’s worth. I still would slightly rank him above his newfound partner only based on sheer talent and tenure, but stay close to this one as I wouldn’t be surprised if legal troubles push schedule (or even team) changes. Personal RB PPR Rank: 28 CHRIS OLAVE - WR The WR25 had a sensational rookie year being thrust into the No. 1 role for the Saints. EPSN Analytics ranked him 7th in open rate behind Stefon Diggs, 15th in target share and 10th in target per route run rate in the NFL. He is now at the mercy of a stronger QB presence and will hopefully be able to lean on veteran Thomas for a longer period of time (which I think will only help the young WR if it happens). There might be doubts in Carr’s effectiveness as a consistent passer, or even that MT is on the horizon and might compromise the target rate for Olave, or even more-so that he will be left pretty-much alone again as the No.1 option (more likely), yet I see all of these situations as major positives for Olave’s value. He has the juice to shine in big moments and will seemingly have a few upgrades in the arsenal around him, especially outside his receiving buddies. There’s really little doubt to have with this 2nd year stud. If there are any homers to bank on, this is easily the guy. Personal WR PPR Rank: 11 Michael Thomas – WR The once-warrior Achilles of New Orleans, 2019 was a long time ago, yet it still lingers as a sliver of hope for maybe what we can still get a taste of. Thomas has played eight games since that historic season (yes, in total). The trust is gone, and even with a 1-year, $10 million contract and a new (better?) QB at the helm, I simply can’t place this beloved receiver inside the top 50. Now…imagine a world where all the stars align, all bones are healed and MT is able to keep a stash of “Michael’s Secret Stuff” in the locker room for before each game. There is a sleeper here – everyone has the same doubt I do, so everyone will pass on Thomas. Given Olave’s attention and a stronger offensive front, those stars aligning could provide a fruitful reward. The question is – is the risk worth it? Person WR PPR Rank: 57 JAMAAL WILLIAMS – RB Williams remains my favorite New Orleans fantasy prospect to ponder. He boomed in his 6th year as a back, capitalizing as a bruiser for Detroit at goal-line opportunities that allowed him to excel as the RB2 behind D’Andre Swift. He also has showcased some strong pass-catching capabilities in Green Bay, those of which Derek Carr has seemingly been able to capitalize on throughout his career (ESPN stats show that Carr’s RB’s in the past nine seasons have finished within the Top-10 of target share). That combination can be a tasteful one, especially if we see Kamara miss any time at all. The ceiling is pretty high with Williams, but there is much unknown until we get closer to the season’s start which also makes his floor a little lower than I’d like. I do have confidence in his usage and impact being immediate. I also expect the impact to be less than what he was able to deliver last year, yet there is still room to know that we have a more positive-than-negative mindset in the reality of he can deliver. Talent alone drops my confidence in Williams being a powerhouse more than a low RB2/strong RB3 at the end of the day. I do hope for more than my expectations, and I wouldn’t be shocked if Williams finds himself inside the Top 20 depending on several of those unknown factors. Fingers crossed. Personal RB PPR Rank: 30 NEW ORLEANS DST – DEF I feel like I need to say something here, however there is not much to add. The defense will not be the worst of the pack, boasting an easier-than-last year schedule and a solid core that has the potential to boom depending on the opponent (think major defensive pieces like Jordan, Granderson, and the hopeful potential of Payton Turner). They also are unfortunately not a 49ers or Bills squad that you pretty much will play weekly, regardless of who it is against. I wouldn’t re-tool your strategy to ensure you solidify the Saints Defense in your roster, yet they will probably be a reliable play in more weeks than most. I like to think that if you are not lucky enough to get the top 2-3 DEF squads during your draft, lean on streaming where you can, and plot and plan a few weeks ahead to have some high-reward opportunities. New Orleans will presumably be a solid option in many weeks, so pay attention to schedule here, but also assume that many players might hold on to this squad once drafted for consistency’s sake. If you do land them, let’s see if the season plays well and don’t immediately jump to drop/stream given the upside here. Personal DEF PPR Rank: 12 There are some honorable mentions I didn’t get to: Juwan Johnson or Taysom Hill at the TE spot? Speaking of Hill, will we see the swiss-army usage we got to experience last year? I wanted to start with the obvious and I am sure we will have some 2022 Hill-like outcomes that make me throw these initial rankings in the garbage. Even so, there’s some important building and re-building that is happening with this squad that will make for a fun year. Follow your pride and love your team, but be smart with your fantasy assets when you look to draft. A common mistake is being the “homer” who loves their team too much and relies on the undeniable over-confidence we like to place on our beloved team’s players and potentials. That considered, the Saints do have some great and intriguing fantasy options that have the potential to shine if all goes well. It might be a little early to create fantasy draft strategies (except for Dynasty Leagues), but it’s never too early to start prepping. Just remember to be flexible. Now get some tacos. Follow me on Twitter @RobSalin
The Zurich Classic swings into New Orleans on April 21 through April 27, 2025. Established in 1958, the Zurich Classic is a professional golf tournament that is held in Louisiana on the PGA Tour, at TPC Louisiana in Avondale. The Fore!Kids Foundation hosts the Zurich Classic to help raise money to fund various children’s service organizations. Since it was established in 1958, Fore!Kids has raised over $45 million through golf events – like the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, the Golf Ball Gala, a kids’ summer junior tour, and several charitable golf tournaments to help provide healthcare, education and hope for over 200,000 children each year. Individual day tickets are $45 and all-inclusive tickets "Best of the Zurich Classic" are $185. All tickets to the Zurich Classic are via mobile entry only. Children 15 and under are admitted free at the front gate with a ticketed adult. Public p arking is $20 per day. For more details, please visit https://zurichgolfclassic.com/