Fantasy Football 2015: Top 20 Quarterbacks

Dec 28, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws a pass against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second half at Heinz Field. The Steelers won the game, 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

20. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

Interceptions are the biggest issue with Andy Dalton’s fantasy value. He was picked off 17 times in 2014, tied with Drew Brees for third most in the NFL. 

Jan 4, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) walks back to the sideline during the second half in the 2014 AFC Wild Card playoff football game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Unlike Brees, however, Dalton doesn’t make amends with yards or touchdown passes. Despite that, the Bengals’ signal caller can still add value to your team.

Last year, Dalton threw for a solid 3,398 yards. His 19 touchdown passes was a career-low, but he’s proven in years past he can produce more, posting 27 touchdowns in 2012 and 33 in 2013.

His 224.62 fantasy points was disappointing. Despite having similar passing stats to Cam Newton and Colin Kaepernick, it was their rushing ability that made them more valuable.

Matthew Stafford’s protection of the football helped him to 251.58 points, while Jay Cutler’s interceptions weren’t as damaging due to his 28 touchdowns.

What Dalton does have is one of the league’s top receivers in A.J. Green. Green missed three games in 2014, but still posted strong numbers. His 69 receptions went for 1,041 yards and six touchdowns.

Running backs Jeremy Hill and Giovani Bernard showed plenty of promise at the backend of last season, and more strong play with the ground game will help Dalton find his receivers and use play-action passes.

I would be cautious about drafting Dalton to be your starting quarterback, but he can provide excellent depth on your bench as cover.

Next: No. 19