Pace Maker: Why Ivan Pace Jr. Will Set the Tempo in 2024

As the 2024 fantasy football season approaches, savvy IDP managers are already scouring the waiver wire, draft boards and trade block for potential breakout stars. One name that should be on everyone's radar is Ivan Pace Jr., the dynamic linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings. Here's why Pace Jr. is poised to make a significant impact in IDP leagues this season.

A Path to Opportunity
One of the most critical factors in identifying a breakout IDP player is the opportunity for playing time. Even with the addition of Blake Cashman during the offseason, the departure of veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks means the Minnesota Vikings are ripe with opportunity at the linebacker position. Ivan Pace Jr., who displayed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, is set to capitalize on this opening.

In 2023, Pace Jr. played in all 17 games and started 11 of them. During that time, he recorded 102 combined tackles, with 63 solo tackles and 39 assists. His tackle rate of 14.45% was very solid for a rookie linebacker. He also contributed 2.5 sacks, 9 quarterback hits, 2 tackles for loss, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. His ability to produce impactful plays, even with limited experience, suggests that with an expanded role, his IDP value could soar.

Wearing the Green Dot: A Sign of Trust
A significant development that underscores Pace Jr.'s potential is the report that he will be wearing the green dot for the Vikings this season. The green dot on a player's helmet signifies that they are the defensive signal-caller, responsible for relaying the play calls from the coaching staff to the rest of the defense. This role is typically reserved for the most trusted and intelligent players on the field, as it requires a deep understanding of the defensive scheme and strong leadership qualities.

For a young player like Pace Jr. to be entrusted with this responsibility speaks volumes about his football IQ and the confidence the coaching staff has in him. Wearing the green dot not only guarantees that Pace Jr. will be on the field for the majority of defensive snaps, but it also positions him as the leader of the defense. This increased playing time and leadership role should lead to a significant uptick in his IDP production.

Underrated Athleticism and Versatility
Standing at 5'10" tall and weighing 231 pounds, Ivan Pace Jr. doesn’t have the prototypical size of an NFL linebacker, which may have caused some scouts to overlook him during the draft process. However, what he lacks in size, he more than makes up for with his athleticism and versatility. Pace Jr. possesses the speed to cover sideline to sideline, the strength to shed blockers, and the football IQ to make quick decisions on the field.

In today’s NFL, where defenses are increasingly asked to adapt to fast-paced offenses, having a linebacker who can play in multiple roles is invaluable. Pace Jr.’s versatility allows him to line up in various spots on the field, whether it’s blitzing off the edge, dropping back in coverage, or filling gaps in the run game. This ability to contribute in multiple areas will keep him on the field and rack up the all-important counting stats that drive IDP scoring.

Conclusion
Ivan Pace Jr. is a player that embodies the classic IDP sleeper—underrated, under the radar, but with all the tools necessary to become a fantasy star. As he steps into a larger role in Minnesota’s defense and takes on the responsibility of wearing the green dot, his blend of athleticism, versatility, and opportunity could propel him to a breakout season. For IDP managers looking to get ahead of the curve, drafting or picking up Pace Jr. could be one of the smartest moves you make this season. Don’t be surprised if by the end of the year, he’s one of the top-scoring linebackers in your league.