Fantasy Upside
Ladarius Green went from 39 offensive snaps in 2012 to 450 in 2013. According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the plan is for that number to rise again in 2014. New TEs coach Pete Metzelaars helped mentor Green in blocking this offseason. The 6-7 coach made a 16-year career from specializing in the area. His work with the 6-6 Green, a willing but imperfect blocker with a thin frame, should help keep the 24-year-old on the field. His route running, though, seems most improved from last season. Green is moving better in and out of his breaks. Last year, Antonio Gates played 1,083 snaps on offense. The disparity between him and Green likely will narrow this season, helping keep Gates fresh.
Fantasy Downside
It's still difficult to project the number of targets Green will attract in the passing game. Remember: OC Frank Reich and Philip Rivers have plenty weapons. The veteran backfield runs three-deep. Wide receivers Keenan Allen, Malcom Floyd and Eddie Royal often will share a field. So will the tight ends.
Bottom Line
That wealth of talent could be a plus, too. "The ball goes to the open guy in this offense," Royal said. "When Ladarius is on the field, he's normally the open guy. ..." And that highlights the question for fantasy owners: How much will Green be on the field? He had more than five targets in a game just once last season. That has to change before we'll see his much-anticipated breakout.
