Channing Crowder

The departure of veteran Zach Thomas made Crowder a key player for Miami’s defense, and the fourth-year ILB didn’t disappoint, posting the team’s second-highest tackle total with 113 (92 solo) and forcing a fumble, despite missing a game due to a knee injury. Crowder is fairly well-established now as a 100-plus tackle linebacker, but won’t be considered an elite IDP player until he gets involved in the pass rush or pass defense – he has just 1.5 sacks and no interceptions in his career to date. Only 25, though, Crowder offers plenty of upside.

Entering his fourth pro season, Crowder has established himself as a 100-tackle linebacker, and, assuming he's medically cleared for training camp, should have even more opportunities with Zach Thomas gone. As far as sacks go, however, feel lucky if he posts two this season. Overall, he's a high second-tier starting fantasy LB.

The up-and-comer registered his first 100-tackle season and recorded his first sack in 2006, his second pro season. Look for him to post at least 100 total tackles again in 2007 and hope that with more experience comes another sack or two.

Starting all 16 games in 2006 should give Crowder the chance to record at least 100 total tackles, but there are no guarantees on sacks.