Is Brian Hartline Worth all the Hype? 

Who has been hotter on the waiver wires this week than Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brian Hartline? The guy has a monster game of 12 receptions for 253 yards and a TD. That’s an amazing day and one that would certainly give any fantasy owner a win for the week.

However, I was not one of the owners who put a claim on him Sunday after I saw his game stats. I’m not buying the Brian Hartline stock and lighting up the fantasy waiver wire. To me, this is a flash in the pan and fantasy owners are getting way too “gaga.”

Here’s why I’m not buying Hartline. First, he has a rookie quarterback in Ryan Tannehill running the offense. He’s a rookie! He’s not a prodigy like Andrew Luck. He’s going to be prone to mistakes. Those mistakes mean less opportunites and targets for Hartline. Now, so far, Tannehill and Hartline have had a nice repoire with each other. But, Tannehill seems to be zeroing in on Hartline and it won’t be long until defenses start to key on that and take advantage.

Next, were talking about the Miami Dolphins. New coach, new quarterback and new offense aren’t exactly what I look for in picking up a WR. Miami doesn’t exactly “wow” you on offense either. Opposite Hartline is Devone Bess. Neither receiver demands double coverage in a matchup. Most eyes are on Reggie Bush in the backfield.

Lastly, look at Miami’s remaining schedule. They have the Patriots and Bills twice, Seahawks, 49ers and Bengals to look forward to. I concede games against Tennessee, Jacksonville and Indianapolis. Those three he could have productive games. As for the rest of the season and the aforementioned teams, those are teams that are pretty good on defense. I wouldn’t feel great about any of those matchups unless it’s a WR1.

Let’s face it, we get flashes by guys every year but only few actually pan out. Take Ryan Grant a few years back with Green Bay. Peyton Hillis also come to mind when he was with Cleveland. But Hartline just doesn’t lead me to believe he’s a difference maker and a guy that can bring your fantasy team to the next level. I’d be more inclined to take a guy like Andre Roberts of Arizona. He’s been lighting up the waivers as well and has Larry Fitzgerald on the field with him on offense. That’s the type of waiver guy to look for!

About the author: Terrence Kirker

A new fantasy football contributor to NFLSoup, Terrence Kirker is an avid NFL fan and diehard Giants fan. He's been involved in fantasy football for the past ten years, with the last four being the mostly competitive for cash prizes, equating to three championships and one third place finish. Follow him on Twitter @terrencekirker