Atlantic City finished the 2039 season 7-9, thanks to a 3 game winning streak at the end of the year. Rumors spread that the Phantoms were in the hunt for an elite TE (though they eventually were outbid) so it appears the two-TE offense will remain the offensive strategy. With the continued inability to get a top flight WR, ACI may look to run the ball more in 2040.
First Round
Jeffrey Emack
RB – Southern Mississippi – 6’ 0” – 224 lbs
1st Round. Pick #1-12. #12 Overall
Pre-Draft Grade: 7.20
Pre-Draft Adjusted Grade: 7.20
Key Combine Scores: Solecismic 29, 40 Time 4.51, Bench Reps 21, Agility 7.11, Position Drill 30
Actuals: 58/71
Atlantic City came within one pick of possibly solving their wide receiver needs as Caleb Purnell dropped to pick #11 but was quickly snatched up by Albany. The Phantoms then went with the best player on their board, who will be a huge help in the running game. Emack is a big back who will split time with returning 1,000+ yard rusher J.R. Brustkern.
Second Round
Zion Price
FB – Oregon St. – 5’ 11” – 224 lbs
2nd Round. Pick #2-11. #43 Overall
Pre-Draft Grade: 4.50
Pre-Draft Adjusted Grade: 4.50
Key Combine Scores: Solecismic 29, 40 Time 4.67, Bench Reps 25, Broad Jump 9’ 5”, Position Drill 37
Actuals: 25/53
The Phantoms continue to look to improve their run game with the selection of Price. Leo Hastings was the target with this pick but he was selected by St. Louis at 2-4. Price had excellent combines and should be a future replacement for the aging Hunter Dail.