Q: I was wondering if you could tell me anything about Cleveland rookie Adimchinobe Echemandu? I know he probably won't see much action in 2004, but I have read a note that said he has keeper potential.
Gary Skeel
Grand Rapids, MI
A: First, let me commend you on getting the spelling of his name correct. That's no easy task, and it's a breath of fresh air after all of the emails asking about Duce McCallister or Jerry Potter. Echemandu is a powerful back from Cal who compares to Travis Henry. He's a strong inside runner who will power through would-be tacklers. Don't look for him to dance around folks in the open field, though. He's not elusive, and he doesn't separate from defenders once he breaks through the line.
No one has nailed down that Cleveland job, so he could have future value. Don't lump him with fellow rookies Steven Jackson and Chris Perry, though. Those rookies are closer to sure things as future producers. Echemandu could wind up in a favorable spot and do something with it, but limit his value to deep keeper leagues.
Rob Hurtt
SportingNews.com
Gary Skeel
Grand Rapids, MI
A: First, let me commend you on getting the spelling of his name correct. That's no easy task, and it's a breath of fresh air after all of the emails asking about Duce McCallister or Jerry Potter. Echemandu is a powerful back from Cal who compares to Travis Henry. He's a strong inside runner who will power through would-be tacklers. Don't look for him to dance around folks in the open field, though. He's not elusive, and he doesn't separate from defenders once he breaks through the line.
No one has nailed down that Cleveland job, so he could have future value. Don't lump him with fellow rookies Steven Jackson and Chris Perry, though. Those rookies are closer to sure things as future producers. Echemandu could wind up in a favorable spot and do something with it, but limit his value to deep keeper leagues.
Rob Hurtt
SportingNews.com