NFL/Fantasy News 2008

[Hache Man]

Only for the Addicts
February is for the fantasy football addict. While most owners hibernate or turn to baseball, the junkies turn to the Scouting Combine and Free Agency. Or they participate in a Mock Draft the day after the Super Bowl.

The results below are more entertaining than instructive. With free agency and the NFL Draft ready to shake up fantasy value, this draft is like a presidential poll taken six months before the first primary. Let's take a look.


[SIZE=+1]Round One[/SIZE]

1.01. "Smitty", Fantasy Football Extreme ? [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL]
1.02 ? Football Diehards ? LaDainian Tomlinson
1.03 ? Brad Evans, Yahoo Sports ? Brian Westbrook
1.04 ? The FootballExpert.com ? Joseph Addai
1.05 ? Jamey Eisenberg, CBSSportsline ? Tom Brady
1.06 ? Rotoworld ? [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1663"]Steven Jackson[/URL]
1.07 ? Andy Behrens, Yahoo Sports? Larry Johnson
1.08 ? JunkyardJake.com ? Peyton Manning
1.09 ? Russ Bliss, FantasyFootballStarters.com ? Frank Gore
1.10 ? Dave Richard, CBS Sportsline ? Clinton Portis
1.11 ? Dan Labert, Fantasy Tailgate.com ? Willis McGahee
1.12 ? Adam Lasik, FantasyWhiz.com ? Ryan Grant

My pick: Jackson was a no-brainer at that stage. Anyone in that slot makes the same pick.

It's early, but I see a big drop-off after the top five running backs. I'm debating whether Jackson should be ahead of [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] for the number two slot next year. Once he returned from injury in the second half of the year, he played as expected. minnesotavikings.com

Shadiest Pick: Larry Johnson ? I'd rather not take a quarterback so high, but those picks won't kill you. I'm not optimistic Kansas City is going to turn their offense or offensive line around. I don't see LJ as a first-round pick. kansascitychiefs.com

Trends, Etc: With Peterson off the board first, I knew it was a new year. Don't expect that to happen often, but the reasoning is understandable. He's a bigger boom-or-bust than the rest of the top five, but his "boom" could include league records. You are buying a lottery ticket, but I'd rather go safe in round one. It would help Peterson out greatly if Chester Taylor was dealt, but that isn't likely to happen.

Brady's big year is going to push him into the first round, but the over/under on his touchdowns next season is closer to 30 than 50. With solid, unspectacular backs like Portis and McGahee in the first round, I can't kill taking a sure thing quarterback. washingtonredskins.com

I would expect Gore to fall further in most drafts after his down year. Maybe that's wishful thinking on my part. ? Ryan Grant is locked in to the Packers starting job, so he deserves to go this high. greenbaypackers.com

[SIZE=+1]Round Two[/SIZE]

2.01. Marshawn Lynch
2.02. Reggie Bush
2.03. Willie Parker
2.04. Marion Barber
2.05. Larry Fitzgerald
2.06. Randy Moss
2.07. Rotoworld - Terrell Owens
2.08. Earnest Graham
2.09. Jamal Lewis
2.10. Brandon Jacobs
2.11. Reggie Wayne
2.12. Ronnie Brown

Best Value: Randy Moss ? The odds are heavily weighted towards him staying in New England and finding a way to score 15 more times.

Shadiest Pick: Reggie Bush ? Even if Deuce McAllister doesn't return 100%, the Saints have Pierre Thomas behind Bush and should bring back Aaron Stecker. Bush hasn't shown he can handle the load. He's not going to hit 250 carries and this also isn't a PPR league.

Trends, Etc: Marshawn Lynch needs some help from his teammates, but he should be one of the safest fantasy picks in the league. ? Barber has been worth this draft slot the last few years because of his scores. With Julius Jones leaving, Barber may wind up getting taken in the first round by August. It depends on whom the Cowboys wind up pairing him with. buffalobills.com

Earnest Graham is an interesting case. He deserves to carry the load in Tampa, but I'm not sure he'll get the chance. Even if Cadillac Williams doesn't make it back, look for Jon Gruden to add a quality back to the mix. ? Ronnie Brown's ACL tear didn't hurt his stock as much as one would expect. Same goes for Ahmad Bradshaw's emergence and Brandon Jacobs' stock. Either way, the sure-thing running backs are gone at this point. NY Giants

[SIZE=+1]Round Three[/SIZE]

3.01. Michael Turner
3.02. Andre Johnson
3.03. Braylon Edwards
3.04. T.J. Houshmandezadeh
3.05. Maurice Jones-Drew
3.06. Rotoworld - [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL]
3.07. Darren McFadden
3.08. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL]
3.09. Plaxico Burress
3.10. Marques Colston
3.11. Torry Holt
3.12. Wes Welker

My Pick: I was set to take Mo-Jo as my RB2, but saw a big drop-off at running back after that. It wasn't worth reaching for my next name. Considering Ocho Cinco set his career high in yards in 2007, I'm not worried about his production or any trade rumors. He's stuck in Cincy whether he likes it or not. indianapoliscolts.com

Best value: Jones-Drew was frustrating to own in 2007, but Fred Taylor is another year older and less likely to repeat his performance. Mo-Jo is a solid third round back because he'll score. jacksonvillejaguars.com

Trends, Etc: There were a few signs in this round how this draft was a fun exercise, but shouldn't be taken too seriously. I didn't even realize we were allowed to take impending rookies. Giving them a draft slot before knowing their NFL team is just guesswork, but McFadden will be worth their draft slot.

The same goes for taking Michael Turner. I agree Turner will be worth this spot as a starter, if not higher, and he'll probably get in a favorable situation with plenty of backfields undecided around the league. sandiegochargers.com

It was interesting to see Johnson go after teammate Houshmandzadeh for the first time in memory. Old favorites [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] and Torry Holt got sent down a round because of some slowdown in their performance. Smith especially had a good excuse and could be a good value next year. carolinapanthers.com



[SIZE=+1]Round Four[/SIZE]

4.01. Rudi Johnson
4.02. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL]
4.03. Greg Jennings
4.04. Laurence Maroney
4.05. LenDale White
4.06. Brandon Marshall
4.07. Rotoworld- Anquan Boldin
4.08. Kellen Winslow
4.09. Tony Romo
4.10. Antonio Gates
4.11. Jason Witten
4.12. Carson Palmer

My pick: Yep, that's three straight receivers for my team. After White and Maroney were off the board, I knew I'd build my team to be strong at every position but RB2. The backs available a few rounds from now weren't going to be much worse. I wound up with Thomas Jones, Justin Fargas, and Felix Jones in rounds 6-8 as my next three running backs. oaklandraiders.com

I considered taking Palmer or Romo, but was hoping one of them or Drew Brees fell to me in round five. Brees made it.

Best Value: Laurence Maroney ? It's very early, but Maroney and LenDale White are going to be Rotoworld favorites if they slip this far. They are talented young starting running backs coming off mediocre years, which is a recipe for value. tennesseetitans.com

White will be the rare back with an over/under of 325 carries. Maroney matured late in the year with four 100-yard games and seven touchdowns in his last seven contests, including the playoffs.

Shadiest Pick: Rudi Johnson ? The first pick of the draft that made me say goo. I'd put Rudi behind Shaun Alexander and Edgerrin James as a veteran back in steep decline, and they didn't go for a while. I'd be surprised if Johnson starts in Week 1 next year. arizonacardinals.com

Trends, Etc: Solid round of picks! With the top of the tight ends so bunched up, no one wanted to take one first. That leads to nice value for Gates here. Palmer and Romo also come at a great price considering Brady and Manning went in round one. I may have been greedy waiting to take a quarterback. I will probably have Palmer third in the rankings when the time comes.

Greg Jennings and Brandon Marshall have forced themselves close to the top tier of receivers with breakout years.

[SIZE=+1]Round Five[/SIZE]

5.01. Santonio Holmes
5.02. DeAngelo Williams
5.03. Roddy White
5.04. Tony Gonzalez
5.05. Hines Ward
5.06. Rotoworld - Drew Brees
5.07. Rashard Mendenhall
5.08. Jonathan Stewart
5.09. Matt Hasselbeck
5.10. Travis Henry
5.11. Shaun Alexander
5.12. Laveranues Coles

My Pick: Honestly, I spaced about the pre-rookie backs; good thing it's February. Most likely, they will wind up with ADPs higher than the fifth-round. Taking Brees was easy because I saw a big tier drop after him at quarterback, and I knew the generic veteran runners would stick around.

Trends, Etc.: No picks in this round were too out of place, although Shaun Alexander may be a backup in a month. ? Travis Henry wants to stay in Denver, but it's uncertain if the Broncos truly want to keep him. ? Laveranues Coles went a few rounds ahead of Jerricho Cotchery despite an injury-plagued year. ? DeAngelo Williams has a good chance to carry the load in Carolina next year, but we said that in February last year. ? Santonio Holmes is the best wideout pick of the round. Roddy White just needs to find out who is quarterback is.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

PT dwindling for Biedrins
There wasn't a lot going on in the NBA on Monday. The afternoon news was light and there weren't a lot of games, but there were enough fantasy storylines in last night's action to take care of an entire Dose. If you got to watch the Wizards lose to the Warriors, you caught one of the better games of the season. But if you own Andris Biedrins, you probably didn't enjoy it quite as much as the average fan.

Warriors ? Wizards ? Stephen Jackson blew up for 41 points and four threes, while the Warriors got nice production from Baron Davis and Monta Ellis to comeback from 23 down to shock the Wizards. Biedrins and Al Harrington came off the bench, while Chris Webber and Matt Barnes got the starting nod. Harrington played a very solid game and made the most of his 33 minutes, but Biedrins saw just 23 minutes for four points and eight rebounds. And had the Warriors not made a furious comeback late, his numbers would have been cut in about half. The really frustrating thing is that Biedrins is so active when he's on the floor. Washington's Brendan Haywood probably would not have gone for 20 and 10 had Biedrins started, and the Warriors may not have had to come back from 23 points down had AB been in there most of the night. But Nellie will be Nellie, meaning owners of Biedrins and Harrington are going to have to be prepared for inconsistency for as long as Webber is getting his 13 minutes per game and clogging up the middle for Golden State. Biedrins' trade value is gone, so just hang in there with him.

On a side note, Jackson was apparently playing through a sprained ankle he suffered on Saturday night. He came down on Mike Bibby's foot, stayed on the ground for bit, and then somehow finished that game. I was off on Saturday and had no idea he had been injured, and I'm glad I didn't know, as it doesn't sound like he was ever in real jeopardy of missing this game.

For the Wizards, Roger Mason scored a career-high 32 points, Antawn Jamison had six steals and Haywood had his second straight 20-10 game. Caron Butler (hip) and Antonio Daniels (ankle) were out again. I expect Daniels to play Wednesday, but I think Butler is going to shut it down until the break is over, and that includes skipping the All-Star Game. Just a hunch.

Mavs ? Sixers - Dirk Nowitzki hit just 4-of-15 shots and had in-game treatment on his back, but said afterwards that he is fine. Josh Howard left with a back injury and did not return, leaving his status for the rest of the week up in the air. J.J. Barea had 13 points, five assists and three 3-pointers for his best game of the year and Devean George started over Eddie Jones. Erick Dampier (ankle) and Jerry Stackhouse (hamstring) were also out with injuries. Brandon Bass had eight points and eight boards, and could have a couple more solid lines, especially if Dampier and Howard remain out. dallasmavericks.com

Andre Miller had 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals as the Sixers spanked the Mavs. Looking at the Sixers' box score, it's hard to figure out how that happened, but it did.

Spurs ? Raptors - Manu Ginobili's career-high 14 rebounds and season-high 34 points, to go along with six assists and six threes, were enough for the Spurs to beat the Raptors. Damon Stoudamire and Jacque Vaughn are sharing time at the point, but Michael Finley is clearly a better play right now. Jose Calderon scored a career-high 27 to go along with six assists for the Raps, while T.J. Ford and Chris Bosh were injured. Ford didn't finish the game with a wrist injury, while Bosh left and later returned with a knee injury. Hopefully they're both fine, but keep an eye out on their status over the next couple days. Calderon is shooting over 50% from the floor, 40% from downtown and 90% from the line. Nice.

Cavs ? Magic - Larry Hughes exploded for 40 points on 12-of-19 shooting, while LeBron James had 29 points and 10 assists on 8-of-15 shooting. I wrote Larry Hughes off earlier this season, swearing I would never own him again. I'm going to stand by that, but if you happen to have him right now, or can pick him up, your timing is perfect. Hughes could play well the rest of the year and make me eat my words, but I like my odds. As much as he's shooting the ball this year, he was bound to finally have a big game when some shots went down. I'll be impressed if he can do this again in his next one, and then stay hot after the break.

Jameer Nelson had 22 points and a little bit of everything else in the loss, while Dwight Howard got into it with Stan Van Gundy for his lack of defense. I'm with SVG, as Howard hasn't blocked a shot in the last two games and only has five swats in his last six. Now we have to see how Howard bounces back from his first clash with his coach in Orlando. I'm guessing he comes back with a vengeance.

Lakers ? Bobcats - Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol both went off again as the Lakers cruised over the Cats. Gerald Wallace is out for Charlotte, but will be back strong after the break. Nazr Mohammed had 22 points, 11 boards and a block in the loss, while Raymond Felton had his best game of the season at shooting guard, going for 29 points and eight assists on 11-of-20 shooting. Jason Richardson struggled in a start at small forward, while Jeff McInnis started at point guard. Things should go back to normal when Wallace returns, but that may not be the best news for point guard Felton.

Clippers ? Bucks - Al Thornton led the Clippers with 25 points on 12-of-20 shooting as they beat the Bucks. Tim Thomas was out again with a back injury, but we're all hopeful that Thornton will hold onto the starting job for the rest of the season, regardless of whether Thomas is healthy or not. Sam Cassell had 21 points and eight assists, and Chris Kaman had 15 rebounds. Mo Williams scored 31 for the Bucks after missing a game with the flu, while Charlie Villanueva left with a knee injury. There's not a worse feeling in fantasy than picking up a "hot" guy and then having him go down early. And if you have someone producing on your bench, it only makes it worse. Michael Redd flirted with a triple-double despite hitting just 3-of-13 shots and Desmond Mason played well in the loss.

Rockets ? Blazers - Brandon Roy returned from a death in the family for 15 points, five rebounds and eight assists, but the Blazers lost to the Rockets. In a very surprising move, Nate McMillan reneged on his decision to start Jarrett Jack until the All-Star break, starting Martell Webster instead. Neither player was great last night, and McMillan reportedly made the move for defensive purposes, even though Webster's not exactly dominant on that end of the court. If you picked up Jack based on the Feb. 6 story in the Oregonian (right around the time he almost triple-doubled), he'll hopefully be back in the starting five for the next one. Rafer Alston had 17 points, seven assists and three 3-pointers, and Yao Ming had 25 points to lead a balanced attack for the Rockets. They're the hottest team in the league, winners of 11 of their last 12 games and 16 of their last 20. Wow.

News and Notes

Shaquille O'Neal looked good in Suns' practice on Monday but it sounds like he may only make a brief appearance before the break, if any at all. The Suns are welding their basket supports to the floor in their practice facility after Shaq about ripped them down yesterday. Funny.

Mike Dunleavy is day-to-day with a knee injury, but it's not serious. The Star told me yesterday he "worked out" with the team, so take it for what it's worth. I'm guessing he plays tonight.

Udonis Haslem will be out for several more weeks with his sprained ankle, so Shawn Marion will continue to start at power forward for the Heat for now.

Ronnie Brewer's tailbone is feeling much better and he could play before the break. Tyson Chandler (flu) and Morris Peterson (back) will both return for the Hornets tonight, but if Peterson doesn't get it going soon, Jannero Pargo may replace him in the starting five. Kendrick Perkins (shoulder) is likely out again on Tuesday and may not play before the break, while Chris Mihm and James Jones have both been put on the shelf again indefinitely. Chris Duhon (knee) missed Bulls practice yesterday, but he and Kirk Hinrich (ribs) should both play tonight, while Daniel Gibson (hamstring) is questionable for the Cavs on Wednesday after missing last night's game. Nate Robinson (flu/quad) is getting back to health for the Knicks, but keep him benched until after the break. bostonceltics.ws

And if you're in a very deep league, Mickael Gelabale could be about to break into the Sonics' rotation for the rest of the season, for what it's worth.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Scouting Combine Preview
On Wednesday, February 20, the NFL will convene for its annual Scouting Combine. The showcase, held at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis, lasts six full days. Players participate by invitation only, and will be running around clad in skin-tight Under Armour as coaches, personnel departments, and medical people look on and evaluate.

There's a feeling in the NFL scouting community that the Combine, while still useful for certain things, usurps the work area scouts have done for the past four to five years. Coaches and GMs don't dive into the draft process until after their teams' seasons have concluded. They immediately turn their attention to the college bowl games, Senior Bowl, and the Combine. Since coaches and GMs have the real pull in their organizations, scouts' work can be put on the back burner when those with "more say" fall in love with certain players.

Nevertheless, it's an entertaining affair and certainly has an impact on where players will be drafted. Let's explore a few topics of note and what to look for.

[SIZE=+1]McFadden Backing Down?[/SIZE]

Arkansas RB Darren McFadden is wavering on whether to run the 40-yard dash. McFadden dropping out would be comparable to post-Buster Douglas Mike Tyson, when intimidation was his best asset, refusing to show up to the pre-fight weigh in. McFadden's most defining attribute, which was to separate him from the strong field of underclassmen backs and make him a top-three lock, is his 4.4 long speed. WEBSITE.WS - Your Internet Address For Life?

The gamebreaker lit up the SEC for three straight seasons, showing next to no weakness while playing against quite possibly the most NFL-like competition college football offers. He held off Felix Jones, who would've topped the depth chart for 100+ other Division I schools, to be a clear-cut starter in all three seasons. However, McFadden's stock, at least in the media's eye, has taken a recent tumble, and his decision to withdraw from the forty wouldn't help. You can bet that NFL teams would frown upon this approach.

[SIZE=+1]Four With Much At Stake[/SIZE]

1. Texas WR Limas Sweed

Sweed missed seven games in 2007 after undergoing wrist surgery. He was forced to drop out of the Senior Bowl after aggravating the injury. The early word is that Sweed may not be able to take part in the Combine's receiving drills, but he should have no problems running the forty. As with all big wideouts (Sweed is 6'4/212), speed is a question mark. If he doesn't run, it won't look good.

2. West Virginia RB Steve Slaton

Slaton was a human highlight reel early in his college career, but finished up with an injury plagued junior year before declaring for the NFL. He seemed to lack the burst in 2007 that he showed as a freshman. In a draft rich with scatbacks, the 5'10/190-pounder may need to do something special just to be taken on the first day.

3. Oklahoma State WR Adarius Bowman

Bowman couldn't catch a cold at the Senior Bowl, but no one can question his physical skills. The 6'3/220-pound Andre Johnson lookalike must atone for the drops with a confident Combine week. Bowman is a certain first-day draft pick and future NFL starter when things are going well.

4. Virginia DE Chris Long

Long could probably turn in an average week and still be a top five selection. His game is so nasty and relentless, his ability to be an every-down end so valuable, and lineage as Howie's son so reassuring that each team (if any) that passes on Long will likely second guess the decision at some point. Long played end in UVA's 3-4 under Al Groh, a Bill Parcells disciple. However, at 6'4/278 he's a bit undersized for an NFL 30 front. If Long can show the speed, explosiveness, and hip fluidity to be a drop or rush linebacker in the Mike Vrabel or Terrell Suggs mold, he'll be hard for Parcells to pass up. A strong week would make Long the clear favorite to go No. 1.

[SIZE=+1]I Feel the Need[/SIZE]

The 40-yard dash is the most publicized portion of the Combine. Here are five players with something to gain from exceptional timing.

1. Illinois RB Rashard Mendenhall

With McFadden potentially dropping out, this is Mendenhall's chance to solidify himself among the top two draft-eligible running backs, and possibly lay claim to the premier spot. One reputable analyst is already calling Mendenhall No. 1. The only concerns with his game are his pass protection and long speed, although Mendenhall proved against USC in the Rose Bowl that he can run away from elite defenders. With only one season of film on this mack truck-built back, NFL brass will be intently examining everything Mendenhall does. A time in the low 4.5s could lock him into the top 16 picks. A dash in the 4.4s could make Mendenhall top-ten material.

2. Kansas State WR Jordy Nelson

6'3/215, white, and muscle bound, Nelson resembles former Broncos stud Ed McCaffrey. The proven senior has a chance to be a top-50 pick if he can show 4.4 speed. Even if Nelson runs in the 4.5s, he'll always have this absolute torching of possible first-round Kansas corner Aqib Talib to hang his hat on.

3. Indiana WR James Hardy

Some knocked Sidney Rice for being too slow off the line during the pre-draft process in 2007. Similar questions are being asked about the Big Ten's leading touchdown catcher this year. Hardy will want to prove he's not another Clarence Moore and that he'll beat physical press coverage at the next level. The 6'6/219-pound early entrant certainly won't be hard for evaluators to spot.

4. Rutgers RB Ray Rice

With the back-and-forth surrounding Mendenhall and McFadden, Rice seems to be getting lost in the running back debate. Rice has never been considered a burner, but did show breakaway speed on occasion in the Big East. A 4.47-4.49 forty would be an outstanding feat for Brian Leonard's former understudy and could vault the Frank Gore clone into the top two rounds.

5. Wake Forest WR Kenneth Moore

We know he can catch. Can he run? Moore broke Torry Holt's ACC single-season mark for receptions by hauling in 98 balls as a senior. The 5'11/200-pounder has soft hands and learned to excel on quicker, shorter routes in a weak Demon Deacons passing attack. NFL people will want to see if Moore can catch the rock when it's coming over his shoulder, and if he has the speed to beat cornerbacks deep. If not, he'll still be a nice slot prospect.

[SIZE=+1]The QB Status Quo[/SIZE]

Quarterback stock is minimally affected by the Combine's goings on. It's been proven that you can even score a six on the Wonderlic (a 10 score out of 50 is considered literacy) and still be a top-five selection. Like everyone, the QBs will run their forties, but there is other testing available. Last year, Central Missouri State's Toby Korrodi turned in the top MPH read on the radar gun. He didn't have the accuracy to succeed in the pros and is currently out of football, but it at least earned him a shot with the Cardinals in training camp. It wouldn't hurt Colt Brennan to throw a few heaters after having his arm strength ripped at January's Senior Bowl.

[SIZE=+1]Potential Showstoppers[/SIZE]

In 2007, current Falcons starting CB Chris Houston (Arkansas) and Titans RB [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] (Arizona) burned up the Combine turf with blistering, sub-4.4 forties. In 2006, Vernon Davis (Maryland) stole the show. Remember Willie Middlebrooks (Minnesota)? It happens every year.

Like Davis, these three players are already top prospects, but have great chances to become more known on the national stage by timing, working out, and interviewing well.

1. Arkansas RB Felix Jones - Jones is already bordering on a high second-round grade despite playing second fiddle to McFadden with the Razorbacks. A big week could send him into the late first-round realm.

2. Michigan WR Mario Manningham - Don't be surprised if Super Mario challenges Houston's Donnie Avery and Cal's DeSean Jackson for the Yamon Figurs award as the Combine's fastest wideout.

3. Ohio State DE/OLB Vernon Gholston - Gholston is reportedly creeping into "top five territory" on one team's draft board. The early entrant can bench 450+ lbs, so look for Gholston to respond with Cardinals strength coach John Lott screaming in his ear.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Free Agency Primer: RBs

Unlike linemen, good running backs are easy to find. Fantasy football's favorite sons fall somewhere between linebackers and plankton (kickers) on the NFL food chain. That makes the offseason entertaining to watch, as starting-caliber players routinely trade uniforms. Here's how we see free agency at running back shaking out.


[SIZE=+1]Possible Salary Cap Cuts [/SIZE]

The free agent market is a moving target, which could make our list of free agents out of date in a week. Many of the biggest names to change teams in March will be veterans cut loose just before free agency starts. Here are some names on the roster bubble.

Shaun Alexander, Seahawks

This one will sting. Alexander is in denial that the Seahawks would consider asking him to take a paycut, much less cut him. If Joe Montana, Johnny U, and Jerry Rice can be forced to move on, Shaun Alexander can too.

Seattle wants a back who can play every down; Alexander can't. Now he struggles on early downs. Alexander could stick around to share work with a rookie, but his release is more likely.

Rudi Johnson, Bengals

I thought Rudi was a goner after averaging 2.9 yards-per-carry. But Kenny Irons and Chris Perry are both hurt, and it appears the Bengals will give Rudi the summer to impress them. He's still no lock to make the team.

Edgerrin James, Cardinals
arizonacardinals.com
I watched a lot of tape on James, and he's not done yet. He just needs some help. Put him on the Browns and he'd have a season similar to Jamal Lewis, minus the big plays. Edge is no longer a good fantasy threat, but he could be a capable committee back. The Cards need to find a rookie back to split the work with him.

LaMont Jordan, Raiders
oaklandraiders.com
Jordan would be easier to write off if he didn't start last season so well. He's certain to get cut, and should find a decent role elsewhere. He's already 30, but doesn't have a lot of mileage on his legs.

DeShaun Foster, Panthers
carolinapanthers.com
Foster is due $4.5 million from the Panthers, and has put up pedestrian numbers for years. The local writers believe he's going to get cut, but John Fox and GM Marty Hurney believe in Foster. They may convince him to accept a paycut.

Warrick Dunn, Falcons
atlantafalcons.com
The Falcons are near the top of any team needing a running back. Cutting Dunn will be a very unpopular move, but it's either that or a big salary reduction.

Travis Henry, Broncos

Mike Shanahan is eternally restless. Henry may be willing to take less money to stay with the team, but the Broncos may not want him back.

[SIZE=+1]Top 15 Free Agent Runners[/SIZE]

1. Marion Barber, Cowboys (Restricted Free Agent) ? The Barbarian is the most complete back out there, although Dallas is hesitant to let him carry the ball 300 times. They won't let him get away either. Look for the team to get a long-term deal done before free agency starts. Even if they can't come to a deal quickly, a first-round tender would prevent him leaving. He won't be backing up Julius Jones any longer.

Prediction: Cowboys: Five years, $14 million guaranteed.

2. Michael Turner, Chargers ? Meet the next fantasy football star. Turner has the perfect combination of experience (four-year veteran), fresh legs (228 carries), and production (5.5 career yards-per-carry). And he shouldn't cost that much. sandiegochargers.com

We won't know every team searching for a back until all the cuts are made, but Turner should have a few suitors. Browns OC Rob Chudzinski coached Turner while in San Diego, but Cleveland may keep Jamal Lewis. He would fit well in Seattle or Denver if they ditch their starters. For now, Atlanta looks like the best fit. The Burner should find a starting job, making him a top-30 fantasy pick.

Prediction: Falcons: Four years, $13 million guaranteed

3. Jamal Lewis, Browns ? After two subpar seasons, Lewis had a shockingly resurgent campaign. He may not look as good away from Cleveland's line, but we can't discount his improved speed and athleticism. His cutbacks and vision were excellent. He improved as the year wore on. Lewis wants a huge payday, but the Browns have leverage with other options. Lewis probably won't get a better deal elsewhere. clevelandbrowns.com

Prediction: Browns, Two years, $13 million
<!--RW-->
4. Julius Jones, Cowboys ? Jones burst on the scene as a rookie, but his career stalled because of poor vision and poor receiving ability. He lost confidence by the end of 2007 and has average instincts. Still, Jones has put enough solid tape out there as a starter. A second team will hope he develops late like his brother. So let's have him follow in Thomas' footsteps.

Prediction: Bears, $6 million guaranteed

5. Derrick Ward, Giants - Ward is injury prone, but he flashed a complete game as a starter in 2007. For a cheap price, he could give a team a backup with power, speed, and receiving ability. The Giants want to keep him, but a good third back is a luxury. His agent should see what's out there first.
NY Giants
Prediction: Seahawks, $5 million guaranteed

6. Mewelde Moore, Vikings - This versatile pro has 4.9 yards-per-carry career average and is excellent in the passing and return game. He can do a little bit of everything, and seems to be a great fit for a West Coast scheme. I'm contractually obligated to mention he went to Tulane. minnesotavikings.com

Prediction: Bucs, $3 million guaranteed

7. Ron Dayne, Texans - Ronnie gets no love, but he's proven that he can close out a season out by eating some carries. He's a serviceable backup.

Prediction: Texans, $2 million

8. Michael Pittman, Bucs - The Godfather of third-down backs should get another contract, but he's nearing the finish line. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

Prediction: 49ers, $2 million

10. Musa Smith, Ravens - Finally freed, Musa put up 83 yards and a score in a Week 17 start. Some team could see starter potential, but a return to Baltimore is more likely. baltimoreravens.com

Prediction: Ravens, $2 million

11. Chris Brown, Titans - Brown remained a free agent until June last year, averaged 4.6 yards-per-carry, but somehow didn't rehab his value. He fades as the year goes along and could have trouble finding a job. tennesseetitans.com

12. Aaron Stecker, Saints - This year's Billy Volek earned himself another season in a crowded Saints backfield. A return to Tampa is another possibility.

Prediction: Saints, $1.5 million

13. T.J. Duckett, Lions - At risk of falling out the league, Duckett impressed with a nice December run. He should get a job as a short-yardage specialist somewhere. detroitlions.com

Prediction: Panthers, $1 million

14. Jesse Chatman, Dolphins - He looked like a pro when given the chance, getting 128 carries in his first action in three years. Chatman won't get many job offers, but his old coach Cam Cameron should bring him to camp. miamidolphins.com

Prediction: Ravens, $1 million

15. Tatum Bell, Lions - If Mike Shanahan and Mike Martz couldn't make him look good, no one will. detroitlions.com

Prediction: Texans, $2 million

The Rest (In no particular order)

Michael Bennett, Bucs - Just about out of chances

Vernand Morency, Packers (restricted) - Should get a tender offer, but he's probably fighting for a roster spot. greenbaypackers.com

Maurice Hicks, 49ers - Does enough things to get a job somewhere.

LaBrandon Toefield, Jaguars - 23 carries over the last two seasons.
jacksonvillejaguars.com
Samkon Gado, Dolphins - A great waiver pickup in 2005, but running out of chances. miamidolphins.com

Artose Pinner, Saints - First player in NFL history to have exactly five carries for 46 yards for two teams in same season. That's worth something!

Travis Minor, Rams- Once in the worst committee in NFL history with Leonard Henry and Lamar Gordon. Now I'm just showing off

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Free Agency Primer: Front 7
Three more players (Jordan Gross, Dallas Clark, and Terrell Suggs) were officially franchise tagged Tuesday, further shrinking the pool of elite free agents who'll be available on February 29. Nnamdi Asomugha and Albert Haynesworth will get the tender on Wednesday. Still, plenty of quality defenders are hitting the market. Let's have a look.

[SIZE=+1]Unrestricted Free Agent Linebackers[/SIZE]

Franchised: Karlos Dansby (Cardinals), Suggs (Ravens)

1. OLB Lance Briggs (Bears) - The quintessential 4-3 weak-side 'backer. The Bears are making one last push, but it'll be worth it for Briggs to see what's out there. He should be the NFL's richest linebacker by early March.

Prediction: Redskins - 7 years, $63 million ($21 million guaranteed)

2. OLB Calvin Pace (Cardinals) - Had 5.5 sacks on the strong side last year. A 2003 first-round pick and college end, Pace resurrected his career as a 3-4 outside linebacker. He's 27 and athletic enough to rush at 272 pounds with his hand up. arizonacardinals.com

Prediction: Jets - 5 years, $28 million ($10 million guaranteed)

3. ILB Zach Thomas (Dolphins) - Carries injury baggage (migraines, concussions), but still effective from sideline to sideline and a legitimate run stopper. Going on 35, Thomas is only a two-down linebacker any longer, but will want to start on a good team. miamidolphins.com

Prediction: Saints - 2 years, $9 million ($4 million guaranteed)

4. OLB Kawika Mitchell (Giants) - Flourished on the weak side in '07 after playing MLB for the Chiefs. Mitchell should stay outside, but brings added versatility. He is athletic and well built at 6'1/253. NY Giants

Prediction: Giants - 3 years, $18 million ($7 million guaranteed)

5. OLB Clark Haggans (Steelers) - Weak side rush linebacker is declining, but understands the zone blitz and can still lay some wood. Haggans could help a team transitioning to the 3-4 with young players.

Prediction: Bengals - 3 years, $13 million ($4 million guaranteed)

6. OLB Victor Hobson (Jets) - 6'0/252-pound 'tweener took a big step back last year after a 100-tackle, six-sack campaign in 2006. newyorkjets.com
7. OLB Landon Johnson (Bengals) - Young (26), highly productive, and versatile but not a traditional run stuffer.
8. OLB Brandon Chillar (Rams) - SAM linebacker not a big playmaker, but smart, only 25, and coming off a career best year.
9. OLB Demorrio Williams (Falcons) - Has intriguing ball skills, athleticism, but nearly lost job on the weak side to day-two pick Stephen Nicholas last year. atlantafalcons.com
10. ILB Dan Morgan (Panthers) - Pro Bowl talent isn't over the hill, but coming off Achilles surgery and has a history of concussions. He visited the Saints Tuesday. carolinapanthers.com

Others of note: ILB Al Wilson (Broncos), OLB Chaun Thompson (Browns), OLB Boss Bailey (Lions), ILB Dontarrious Thomas (Vikings), OLB Reggie Torbor (Giants), ILB Teddy Lehman (Lions), OLB Keyaron Fox (Chiefs), ILB Mark Simoneau (Saints), ILB Tedy Bruschi (Patriots), ILB Derek Smith (49ers), OLB Danny Clark (Texans), OLB Caleb Miller (Bengals), ILB Junior Seau (Patriots)

[SIZE=+1]Restricted Free Agent Linebackers[/SIZE]

1. OLB Michael Boley (Falcons) - New Falcons' management smartly views Boley as a building block. He'll get the first-round ($2.017 million) tender.
2. ILB Channing Crowder (Dolphins) - Should succeed Zach Thomas as Miami's "MIKE" linebacker, but will need at least the second-round tag ($1.417 million).
3. OLB Darryl Blackstock (Cardinals) - Low tender ($927,000) would likely keep this disappointing former third-round pick around for one more year.
4. OLB Heath Farwell (Vikings) - Relentless special teamer lacks size, speed to be realistic long-term answer on the weak side. minnesotavikings.com
5. ILB Adam Seward (Panthers) - Utility linebacker with little upside.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]Unrestricted Free Agent Defensive Linemen[/SIZE]

Franchised: Jared Allen (Chiefs)
Will Be Franchised: Albert Haynesworth (Titans)

1. DE [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=2539"]Justin Smith[/URL] (Bengals) - Every-down 4-3 end had only two sacks in 2007 while wearing franchise tag. Still, players of Smith's caliber are rare, and his numbers weren't for lack of effort. Smith had 78 tackles, just three shy of his career high. He's a Missouri native and his agent is based in St. Louis.

Prediction: Rams - 6 years, $50 million ($18 million guaranteed)

2. DT Corey Williams (Packers) - Prototype 4-3 gap shooting tackle, but at 6'4/313, could probably play end in an aggressive, Wade Phillips-style 3-4. Williams has 14 sacks in his last two seasons and forced three fumbles in 2007. He is not a nose. greenbaypackers.com

Prediction: Saints - 5 years, $27.5 million ($8 million guaranteed)

3. DE Antwan Odom (Titans) - Only 26 and coming off a breakout eight-sack season, but not proven as an every-down player. He had only 21 tackles in 2007. Odom also has a long history of injuries. Someone will overpay. tennesseetitans.com

Prediction: Lions - 6 years, $38 million ($14 million guaranteed)

4. DT/DE Tommy Kelly (Raiders) - Coming off ACL surgery, so he'll be cheap. Kelly is a high-motor performer and just turned 27. He is 6'6/300. Kelly should take a one-year deal, rehab his value (and knee), and re-enter the market in 2009. oaklandraiders.com

Prediction: Raiders - 1 year, $3 million ($2 million in incentives)

5. DT Isaac Sopoaga (49ers) - Has ideal build for a 3-4 nose at 6'2/332. Sopoaga, a fourth-round pick in 2004, was considered a disappointment before 2007. However, because nose tackles are so hard to find, he's a lock to find a starting job.

Prediction: Dolphins - 5 years, $21 million ($9 million guaranteed)

6. DE Bobby McCray (Jaguars) - 17 sacks 2005-2006. Three in 2007. That's not what he or the Jags were hoping for in a contract year. jacksonvillejaguars.com
7. DE Marques Douglas (49ers) - Undersized 3-4 end but relentless. Could also play three technique in a 4-3.
8. DT Brian Young (Saints) - Productive when healthy, but age (31 this summer) and wear and tear may be catching up to him.
9. DE Josh Thomas (Colts) - Has been buried behind Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, but plays the run well at left end and has experience inside. indianapoliscolts.com
10. DE Chris Clemons (Raiders) - Eight sacks were fluky in 2007, but he'll get paid. Could play weak-side OLB in a 3-4.

Others of note: DT Darwin Walker (Bears), DT Spencer Johnson (Vikings), DT Rod Coleman (Falcons), DE/DT Tyler Brayton (Raiders), DE John Engelberger (Broncos), DT Randy Starks (Titans), DE/DT Darrion Scott (Vikings), DE Ebenezer Ekuban (Broncos), DT Grady Jackson (Jaguars), DE Travis LaBoy (Titans), DT Kindal Moorehead (Panthers), DE/DT Jimmy Wilkerson (Chiefs), DT Ian Scott (Eagles), DE Mike Rucker (Panthers), DT William Joseph (Giants)

[SIZE=+1]Restricted Free Agent Defensive Linemen[/SIZE]

1. DE Chris Canty (Cowboys) - A rising star in Dallas' 3-4. Will at least get first-round tender.
2. DT Jovan Haye (Bucs) - Had six sacks in his first year as a starter. A former sixth-round draft pick, Haye should get the second-round tender. Tampabaybuccaneers.com
3. DT Colin Cole (Packers) - Versatile 325-pounder can play both interior positions. Cole was originally undrafted, so Green Bay will need to tender him high to keep him.
4. DE/DT Mike Wright (Patriots) - Also a former undrafted FA. Versatile and mostly reliable.
5. DE Chauncey Davis (Falcons) - Almost strictly a run-stopping end. Davis should be safe if tendered low. He was a fourth-round pick in 2005.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Free Agency Primer: QBs
Great quarterbacks without question marks don't make it to free agency. With the salary cap exploding over the last five years, it is easier than ever for teams to protect their most valuable commodities.
Still, there is value out there. Drew Brees was a gamble coming off rotator cuff surgery, but has proved to be a bargain for the Saints. Jeff Garcia, Jon Kitna, Kurt Warner, and Jake Delhomme have all produced after hitting free agency. "The franchise" probably isn't out there, but there are a few life rafts that will help keep teams afloat. carolinapanthers.com


[SIZE=+1]Top 12 Free Agent Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

1. Derek Anderson, Browns ? Restricted Free Agent - Two big questions face the best quarterback available this offseason.
clevelandbrowns.com
What is his worth around the league?

Opinions vary widely about Anderson. He's a young Pro Bowler with a terrific arm and aggressiveness. He stands tough in the pocket. But some may see his struggles with short, timing throws and conclude he wouldn't fit many offenses. Other teams worry he's the product of a fantastic offensive line and group of skill players.

The Browns and the rest of the NFL appear to believe that Anderson must back up his ascendant 2007 with another strong campaign. He wants Matt Schaub/Tony Romo money, but he's going to have to wait.

Is he really available?

If they can't sign him to a long-term deal, which is looking increasing likely, the Browns should manage to retain Anderson by placing the highest restricted free agent tender on him. That would require another team to give up a first- and third-round pick just to sign him to a huge deal, which should be prohibitive. The Browns have exchanged contract proposals, but a long-term deal looks unlikely.

Don't expect the Browns to trade him. They have spent a decade wandering in the quarterback wilderness, and they should be happy to have two good options. Teams don't lose players they truly want to keep, and they will want to keep Anderson. For one more year, having Anderson and Brady Quinn is a good problem.

Prediction: Browns, $11 million guaranteed</B>

2.Byron Leftwich, Falcons - Joining the Falcons in-season was a disaster waiting to happen; it did. But Leftwich is still a 28-year-old former top-ten pick with 45 career starts and a 52/38 TD/INT ratio. He's a huge injury risk, but he's going to come cheaply and has upside. Teammates see him as a leader. Let's not put him on Joey Harrington's career path yet. atlantafalcons.com

Baltimore and Miami make sense because they will build around a vertical passing game. Leftwich should stay away from West Coast systems because his strength is getting the ball down the field.

Prediction: Miami, $6 million guaranteed

3. Daunte Culpepper, Raiders - He's a long way from his NFL MVP runner-up form, but Culpepper showed in Oakland that he be a capable backup. He put together a few solid outings before hurting his hamstring.
oaklandraiders.com
For all his faults, Culpepper has averaged 7.13 YPA over his last three injury-plagued years. He won't fit every system, but he can improve many rosters. He accepted his backup role well in Oakland. The Bucs, Dolphins, Bears, Jaguars, and Falcons all make sense. We'll put him with his old Dolphins coach Mike Mularkey in Atlanta.

Prediction: Atlanta, $4 million guaranteed
<!--RW-->
4. Rex Grossman, Bears - Chicago's defense was the main difference between Super Bowl Rex and the guy benched for Brian Griese. But the perception of Grossman is certainly down, and he made the same old mistakes late last year (holding the ball too long, struggling with blitzes). Look for the Bears to value him more than the rest of the league.

Prediction: Chicago, $6 million guaranteed

5. Billy Volek, Chargers- He had some big days as a starter with the Titans, but left in an ugly situation behind that will hurt his stock. His game-winning drive against the Colts in the AFC Championship should earn some money back. With a little luck, Volek could compete to start. He's more likely to get a clear backup job. sandiegochargers.com

Prediction: Jaguars, $3 million

6. Cleo Lemon - Lemon played with competence in a tough situation for Miami in 2007. He takes the check down pass too much, but doesn't make many big mistakes. Cam Cameron could bring him to Baltimore to compete with Kyle Boller and a rookie to be named later.

Prediction: Ravens, $3 million

7. Todd Collins, Redskins - He was a revelation in the Washington run to the playoffs, but he's 36 and won't fit most offenses. The Redskins have shown some interest, but Collins should try to follow Al Saunders to St. Louis. He could replace Gus Frerotte there as Marc Bulger's backup. washingtonredskins.com

Prediction: Rams, $4 million

8. Trent Green, Dolphins - Forget his concussion problems and watch how poorly he played in 2007. His accuracy was all over the place and he saw the pass rush. Considering his head injuries, it would be great to see a classy guy like Green walk away before getting forced to. miamidolphins.com

Prediction: Retirement

9. Quinn Gray, Jaguars - He was wildly inconsistent, but Gray managed two 300-yard games in losses this year. He wants a chance to start elsewhere, but that seems unlikely. He's shown enough to pique the interest of another team except the Jaguars. jacksonvillejaguars.com

Prediction: Vikings, $2.5 million guaranteed

10. Josh McCown, Raiders - Three teams have tried to make him an NFL quarterback, and none have succeeded. Look for that pattern to continue.
oaklandraiders.com
Prediction: Buffalo, $2 million

11. Jared Lorenzen, Giants (Restricted Free Agent) - It's hard to imagine another team but the Giants wanting The Hefty Lefty. NY Giants

Prediction: Giants, second-round tender

12. Chris Redman, Falcons - Atlanta has shown interest in keeping him to compete for the starting job. atlantafalcons.com

Prediction: Falcons, $3 million

[SIZE=+1]Trade Bait[/SIZE]

Chad Pennington - The Jets say they will keep him, but old friends Herm Edwards and Bill Parcells may show interest. newyorkjets.com

J.P. Losman - Like Leftwich, Losman is a disappointing first-rounder looking for love. Teams like Atlanta, Minnesota, and Baltimore looking for a possible starter will perform their due diligence.

[SIZE=+1]Possible Cuts[/SIZE]

Steve McNair, Ravens - Injuries have made him a shell of his former self. We suspect he'll retire rather than take a clear backup job. baltimoreravens.com

Gus Frerotte, Rams - His situation could depend on Todd Collins.

Brian Griese, Bears - The Bears appear content to bring Rex Grossman back. They won't compound that mistake by bringing Griese back to compete with him.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Free Agency Primer: Receivers
We have previewed the running backs, front seven, and quarterbacks already. With one week left until free agency starts, let's look at the best receivers available.

0. Randy Moss, Patriots - Since everyone in the league seems to agree he's not actually available, let's not waste too much time here.

Prediction: Patriots, three years, $25 million.

1. D.J. Hackett, Seahawks - He doesn't have the production of players below, but Hackett is the only potential "number one" receiver available. In seven full games in 2007, he topped 100 yards three times with four touchdowns. He'll come cheaply and fits well in a West Coast offense. He can go deep and be a physical receiver over the middle; the main concern is durability.

And if you think I'm letting my man-love for Hackett blind me, Scout.com also calls him and Bernard Berrian the top two free agent wideouts. So there! Any West Coast team like the Vikings, Eagles, and Redskins should go hard after him. Seattle will also do their best to keep him.

Prediction: Redskins, $13 million guaranteed.

2. Bernard Berrian, Bears - Berrian hits home runs. He may not be a complete receiver, but he's the best deep threat by far available and should get the biggest contract at his position. Berrian is a solid number two with potential for a string of 1,000-yard seasons.

I see him as a vertical threat that would best fit outside of a West Coast system, although Washington, Denver, and Tampa are rumored to be interested. Buffalo, Tennessee, San Francisco, Oakland, and Miami all make some sense. I don't think the Bears will pay him enough.

The Raiders love speed and Berrian grew up near there, so we'll have him replace Jerry Porter. They are usually good for a surprise or three.

Prediction: Raiders, $14 million guaranteed

3. Jerry Porter, Raiders - Quietly enjoyed a nice comeback season, making a lot of tough grabs on a terrible offense. He can start, but isn't fast in the open field and has some off-field baggage. He could be one of the most dominant slot receivers in the league, but his contract will pay him to be a red zone beast and starter. Tampa and Minnesota both could use a physical threat and are desperate for receiver help. oaklandraiders.com

Prediction: Vikings, $10 guaranteed

4. Donte Stallworth, Patriots - Nikko's alter ego has great after-catch ability, but three teams have given up on him in two years. He's a piece to the puzzle, but not the corner piece. Tennessee could use a weapon for Vince Young and showed strong interest in Stallworth last season.

Prediction: Titans, $ 9 million guaranteed

5. Bryant Johnson, Cardinals - Former first-round pick can step out of his teammates' shadows, but would best be used as a number three. His speed is overrated, but his ability to make tough grabs in traffic shined in 2006. He hasn't been able to put together consistent seasons, but he's talented enough to help a roster. He's on the borderline between a starter and a third receiver. arizonacardinals.com

Prediction: Bears, $8 million guaranteed
<!--RW-->
6. Ernest Wilford, Jaguars - Rugged third receiver can block well and be a red zone factor. He won't blow anyone away with big plays, but he can improve a thin rotation. Buffalo could use some toughness and depth at the position. jacksonvillejaguars.com

Prediction: Bills, $7 million guaranteed

7. Marty Booker, Dolphins - Younger than you think (31), and always stuck with terrible quarterbacks. Booker is an intelligent veteran who can fit right in with a complex offense. New England, Tennessee, Dallas, and Minnesota are possibilities. miamidolphins.com

Prediction: Cowboys, $6 million guaranteed

8. Devery Henderson, Saints - Blinding speed has teased two Saints staffs who learned he has hands of concrete.

Prediction: Broncos, $3 million guaranteed

9. Muhsin Muhammad, Bears - If Chicago doesn't want him, no one should.

Prediction: Panthers, $4 million guaranteed

10. Jabar Gaffney, Patriots - They don't pay you big bucks for blocking, which means Gaffney is unlikely to get great interest around the league. Some Patriot-like teams (Jets, Browns, Dolphins) could look at him as a role player, but we'll keep him in New England.

Prediction: Patriots, $2 million

11. Nate Washington, Steelers (Restricted) - The Steelers better put a second-round tender on Washington, because he has excellent physical skills and they have spent a lot of time developing him.

Prediction: Steelers, Second-round tender

12. Andre Davis, Texans - Revived his career with great special teams play and surprisingly solid run as a starter while Andre Johnson was hurt.

Prediction: Bucs, $4 million guaranteed

13. Justin Gage, Titans - Enjoyed the best stretch of a lackluster career with Tennessee, but has more value to the Titans than other teams. tennesseetitans.com

Prediction: Titans, $5 million guaranteed

[SIZE=+1]The Best of the Rest[/SIZE]

Keary Colbert, Panthers - The spark went out in Carolina, but Colbert's great rookie season is proof there is talent in there somewhere. carolinapanthers.com

David Patten, Saints - The product of a great system.

Drew Carter, Panthers - He can run straight lines real fast, but the NFL requires subtler skills.

Kelley Washington, Patriots - Special teams dynamo is likely to leave the Patriots.

Reche Caldwell, Redskins - New England's leading receiver in 2006, which feels like a long time ago. washingtonredskins.com

Eric Moulds, Titans - Great career dwindling to an end.

Samie Parker, Chiefs - Had years of opportunity in Kansas City, but never took advantage. kansascitychiefs.com

[SIZE=+1]The Rest[/SIZE]

Tim Carter, Terrance Copper, Doug Gabriel, Az-Zahir Hakim, Jerome Mathis, Marcus Robinson, Devard Darling, Robert Ferguson, Tab Perry, Sam Aiken, Aaron Moorehead

[SIZE=+1]Possible releases[/SIZE]

Darrell Jackson, 49ers - Not sure how he fits in a Mike Martz system. That draft day trade isn't looking like a steal anymore.

Isaac Bruce, Rams - Probably will remain in St. Louis because he's shown he can still play. If not, Martz would bring him to San Francisco.

Joe Horn, Falcons - I'd guess his career is over.
atlantafalcons.com
Troy Williamson, Vikings - He's allowed to seek a trade, but look for the Vikings to eventually release him. minnesotavikings.com

Brandon Lloyd, Redskins - Will have more time to work on aspiring rap career.

Terry Glenn, Cowboys - Status of his knee has clouded Glenn's future.

[SIZE=+1]Trade Candidates[/SIZE]

Javon Walker, Broncos - The Bucs have already shown interest. Walker's price tag will depend on the results of his physical. Rumors have swirled that his knee may require microfracture surgery. A release is more likely.

[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL], Bengals - Marvin Lewis says he's holding on to Ocho Cinco, but a draft pick bounty could change his mind.

[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL], Lions - Detroit appears to be tired of waiting for Williams to "get it" although he'd have no shortage of suitors if available. detroitlions.com

[SIZE=+1]Tight Ends[/SIZE]

1. Alge Crumpler, Falcons - Injuries and conditioning are big concerns, but 30-year old four time Pro Bowlers aren't often available.

2. Ben Troupe, Titans - Imposing receiving threat never reached potential with Titans.

3. Eric Johnson, Saints - He knows how to catch a seven-yard pass. Just don't expect him to run with it.

4. Bubba Franks, Packers - He can't stay healthy, but Franks is a solid blocker and red zone option. He should be a backup. greenbaypackers.com

5. Kris Wilson, Chiefs - Was stuck at fullback with Kansas City, but could fit in elsewhere as a pass-catching threat.

[SIZE=+1]The Rest[/SIZE]

Ben Utecht (restricted), Bryan Fletcher (restricted), Jeb Putzier, Jerramy Stevens, Bubba Franks, Anthony Becht, Marcus Pollard, Michael Gaines, Jermaine Wiggins, John Gilmore, Billy Miller NY Giants

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Free Agency in a Nutshell
The NFL isn't big on patience. While baseball's Hot Stove season lasts months, football teams snap up quality free agents with the fervor of day-after Thanksgiving shoppers. Unrestricted free agency opens on Friday, February 29th and most of the big names will be signed within a week.

With that in mind, teams and fans must be prepared for the splurge. Releases and re-signings make this list subject to change, but here's a quick overview of the best available players this free agent seasons.

[SIZE=+1]Top Five Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

1. Derek Anderson, Browns (Restricted Free Agent): Anderson has a promising future, but there are still questions about his staying power. The Browns and Anderson are far apart on contract talks, so look Cleveland to tender him at the highest amount for a restricted free agent. Don't expect another team to mortgage their franchise's future to acquire him. After ten years of searching for a quarterback, the Browns can live with two quality options for one more year. clevelandbrowns.com

2. Byron Leftwich, Falcons: Joining the Falcons in-season was a disaster waiting to happen, and it did. But Leftwich is still a 28-year-old former top-ten pick with 45 career starts and a 52/38 TD/INT ratio. He's a huge injury risk, but still has some upside. atlantafalcons.com

3. Daunte Culpepper, Raiders: He's a long way from his NFL MVP runner-up form of 2004, but Culpepper showed in Oakland that he can be a capable backup. oaklandraiders.com

4. Billy Volek, Chargers: Volek had some big days as a starter with the Titans, but left an ugly situation and angry coach behind. That will cost him. His drive against the Colts in the AFC Championship could make him some money back. sandiegochargers.com

5. Cleo Lemon, Dolphins: Played competently in a tough situation for the Dolphins in 2007. Cam Cameron could bring him to Baltimore. miamidolphins.com

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Todd Collins, Redskins: Was a revelation in the Washington playoff run, but he's 36 and won't fit most offenses. washingtonredskins.com

Quinn Gray, Jaguars: Two 300-yard games in 2007 shows he can play.
jacksonvillejaguars.com
[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Trent Green, Dolphins - Forget his concussion problems for a minute, and watch how poorly he played in 2007.

Josh McCown, Raiders: Three teams have tried to make him an NFL quarterback, and none have succeeded.

[SIZE=+1]Trade Bait[/SIZE]

Chad Pennington: The Jets say they will keep him, but old friends Herm Edwards and Bill Parcells may show interest. newyorkjets.com

J.P. Losman: Another disappointing first-rounder looking for love.


[SIZE=+1]Top Five Running Backs[/SIZE]

1. Marion Barber (Restricted Free Agent): Barber is the most complete back available, although Dallas doesn't want him carrying the ball 300 times. The Cowboys are expected to get a long-term deal done with Barber to be their starter, but they need to act fast.

2. Michael Turner, Chargers: With Justin Fargas, Jamal Lewis, and Travis Henry staying with their teams, Turner will get huge bucks. Turner has the perfect combination of experience (four-year veteran), fresh legs (228 carries), and production (5.5 career yards-per-carry). He'll find a starting job.
sandiegochargers.com
3. Julius Jones, Cowboys: Jones' fast start to career stalled because of poor vision and receiving ability, but he's produced. He could develop late like his brother.

4. Derrick Ward, Giants: He's injury prone, but Ward flashed a complete game when he saw the field as a starter in 2007. Big upside for a low price.
NY Giants
5. DeShaun Foster, Panthers: Has some power and versatility, but he's struggled to rise above mediocrity in Carolina. He would make a fine backup.
carolinapanthers.com
[SIZE=+1]Sleeper Picks[/SIZE]

Mewelde Moore, Vikings: Versatile pro has 4.9 yards-per-carry career average and is excellent in the passing and return game. minnesotavikings.com

Musa Smith, Ravens: Great speed and size combination for a bargain price.
baltimoreravens.com
[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Tatum Bell, Lions: If Mike Shanahan and Mike Martz couldn't make him look good, no one will. detroitlions.com

Chris Brown, Titans: He's a tease. Brown starts fast, then fades as the hits pile up. tennesseetitans.com


<!--RW-->[SIZE=+1]Top Five Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

1. D.J. Hackett, Seahawks: He doesn't have the production of players below, but Hackett is the only potential "number one" receiver available. In seven full games in 2007, he topped 100 yards three times with four touchdowns. He can fit in any system.

2. Bernard Berrian, Bears: Berrian hits home runs. He may not be a complete receiver, but he's the best deep threat available and will get a huge contract.

3. Jerry Porter, Raiders: Quietly enjoyed a nice comeback season, making a lot of tough grabs on a terrible offense. He can start, but isn't fast and has some off-field baggage. oaklandraiders.com

4. Donte Stallworth, Patriots: Nikko's alter ego has great after-catch ability, but three teams have given up on him in two years. He's a piece to the puzzle, but not a corner piece.

5. Bryant Johnson, Cardinals: Former first-round pick can step out of teammates shadows, but would best be used as a number three. arizonacardinals.com

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Ernest Wilford, Jaguars: Rugged third receiver can block well and be a red zone factor.

Marty Booker, Dolphins: Younger than you think (31), and always stuck with terrible quarterbacks. miamidolphins.com

[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Muhsin Muhammad, Bears: If Chicago doesn't want him, no one should.

Devery Henderson, Saints: Blinding speed has teased two Saints staffs who learned he has hands of concrete.



[SIZE=+1]Top Three Tight Ends[/SIZE]

1. Alge Crumpler, Falcons: Injuries and conditioning are big concerns, but 30-year old four time Pro Bowlers aren't available very often. atlantafalcons.com

2. Ben Troupe, Titans: Imposing receiving threat never reached potential with Titans. tennesseetitans.com

3. Eric Johnson, Saints: He knows how to catch a seven-yard pass. Just don't expect him to run with it.

[SIZE=+1]Sleeper[/SIZE]

Kris Wilson, Chiefs: Was stuck at fullback with Kansas City, but could fit in elsewhere as a pass-catching threat. kansascitychiefs.com

[SIZE=+1]Top Five Offensive Linemen [/SIZE]

1. Flozell Adams, Cowboys: Good young tackles don't make it to the market, but Adams, a 2007 Pro Bowler, is a fine short-term fix.

2. Jason Brown, Ravens (Restricted free agent): The Ravens should find a way to retain of the best run-blocking young guards in football.

3. Alan Faneca, Steelers: Spending huge dollars to aging interior linemen usually doesn't pay off, and Faneca's reputation may be better than his play of late.

4. Maurice Williams, Jaguars: Has starting experience at tackle for a great running team. A solid third tackle. jacksonvillejaguars.com

5. Jake Scott, Colts: Starting guard for the Colts might not break the bank to start elsewhere. indianapoliscolts.com

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Jacob Bell, Titans: One of the few young linemen with starting experience who will be available.

Jeff Faine, Saints: Overlooked glue for the Saints interior line.

[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Ruben Brown, Bears: A fantastic career, but no longer a help.

Damien Woody, Lions: Plays (and eats) when he wants to.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

FA Primer: The Secondary
[SIZE=+1]Unrestricted Free Agent Cornerbacks[/SIZE]

Franchised: Nnamdi Asomugha (Raiders), Marcus Trufant (Seahawks)

1. Asante Samuel (Patriots) - Samuel was not as effective in coverage in 2007 and is considered a "system player" by some GMs. However, he is experienced in a man-coverage scheme and has elite ball skills. Samuel, who just turned 27, has 19 picks and a startling 58 pass breakups over the last three seasons. He is in search of a ten-year, $100 million contract, which he won't get from the Patriots.

Prediction: Saints - 10 years, $100 million ($24 million guaranteed)

2. Drayton Florence (Chargers) - Since being a second-round pick in 2003 out of Tuskegee, Florence has had one legitimately strong season (2006). He couldn't help losing his starting job to Antonio Cromartie last year. We know what Florence is: a league average starter with decent playmaking ability and mediocre tackling skills. But in this market, he's the No. 2 cornerback available and will be a rich man shortly. WEBSITE.WS - Your Internet Address For Life?

Prediction: Cowboys - 7 years, $42 million ($19 million guaranteed)

5. Randall Gay (Patriots) - Gay can play both safety and cornerback and rarely lets plays get behind him. He's an LSU product who will tackle and can play inside and outside. None of Gay's physical measurements stand out and he's never been a full-time starter. But he is coming off a career best three-interception season, is only 25, and has No. 2 corner potential.

Prediction: Falcons - 5 years, $30 million ($11 million guaranteed)

4. Brian Kelly (Bucs) - Kelly, who paid the Bucs $3.85 million to opt out of his deal, was arguably a better all-around corner than Ronde Barber in his prime. Now 32 and coming off back-to-back injury plagued campaigns, Kelly's value is at a low. But if he can put his toe problems behind him, Kelly will be an asset in a Cover 2. He is a fine tackler and will make plays on the ball. There's no better fit for him than with old Bucs DL coach Rod Marinelli. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

Prediction: Lions - 3 years, $14 million ($6 million guaranteed)

5. Fernando Bryant (Lions) - Bryant turns 31 soon and isn't outstanding in any area, but has extensive experience in both zone and man-to-man schemes. He led Lions cornerbacks with 69 tackles and 13 pass breakups in 2007. Bryant's build (5'10/175) would translate well as a slot corner for his next team. He'll be a low upside signing, but can be a steady No. 2 or 3 CB.
detroitlions.com
Prediction: Patriots - 3 years, $8 million ($3 million guaranteed)

6. Keith Smith (Lions) - Has never started full time, but probably should've last year. Smith, 27, had three INTs, one returned for a score. He'd be a fine nickel back signing.
7. Travis Fisher (Lions) - Approaching early-career journeyman status. Fisher is somewhat injury prone, but can cover the slot. He's 28 but should come cheap.
8. Will James (Eagles) - Apparently, the name change (from Will Peterson) hasn't helped. James lost his third corner job to Joselio Hanson down the stretch last year. He has good size (6'0/200), but has an injury history and is unreliable.
9. Jacques Reeves (Cowboys) - Picked up starts last year with Terence Newman and Anthony Henry hobbled, but isn't excellent in any area and will be searching for a megadeal. Like Jason David at this time last year, he's someone to avoid.
10. Ricardo Colclough (Browns) - Toolsy former second-round pick couldn't crack the Steelers' CB rotation 2004-2006 or Cleveland's in 2007. Colclough can return punts, but is also fumble prone. He's worth a look, but shouldn't be guaranteed anything. clevelandbrowns.com

Others of note: Andre Dyson (Jets), Frank Walker (Packers), Von Hutchins (Texans), Benny Sapp (Chiefs), Terry Cousin (Jaguars), Hank Poteat (Jets), Chad Scott (Patriots), Jason Webster (Bills), Ralph Brown (Cardinals), Nathan Jones (Cowboys), David Macklin (Redskins), Aaron Glenn (Jaguars), Dante Wesley (Panthers), Sammy Davis (Bucs), Lewis Sanders (Falcons), Fred Thomas (Saints)

[SIZE=+1]Restricted Free Agent Cornerbacks[/SIZE]

1. Domonique Foxworth (Broncos) - May project more favorably at free safety than corner. With John Lynch contemplating retirement, Foxworth has too much value to the Broncos for them to let him get away. He should at least get a second-round tender.
2. Eric Green (Cardinals) - Green can unload on ball carriers, but also misses his share of tackles. He hasn't intercepted a pass since 2005. Still, Arizona will retain him. arizonacardinals.com
3. Stanley Wilson (Lions) - The only cornerback with experience Detroit currently holds the rights to. Inconsistency has plagued Wilson, but the Lions still think he can evolve into a starter. He'll get another look, likely with a low or second-round tender.
4. Daven Holly (Browns) - Not spectacular, but a good football player. Holly had five picks in 2006, but lost his job to Eric Wright in 2007. He'll still be tendered. clevelandbrowns.com
5. Joselio Hanson (Eagles) - Undersized, but highly reliable. If the Eagles don't sign Asante Samuel and keep Lito Sheppard, he'll be their nickel back this year.
6. Karl Paymah (Broncos) - Nice measurables, but has been locked into the No. 4 cornerback job in Denver for three years. He'll get a low tender.
7. Reynaldo Hill (Titans) - Started as a rookie seventh-rounder in 2005, but is susceptible deep. He should get a low tender at best. tennesseetitans.com
8. Chris Carr (Raiders) - Has return value and can help at free safety in a pinch. Carr was originally undrafted, so if he gets a low tender, he'll be worth a flier. oaklandraiders.com

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]Unrestricted Free Agent Safeties[/SIZE]

Franchised: Ken Hamlin (Cowboys)

1. Madieu Williams (Bengals) - Williams has ideal cover skills in center field. He will also shut down the slot, jump routes, and get into the help position quickly. Because of his fluid hips, the Bengals annually have considered moving Williams to corner. He'll play free safety for his next team, but still offers terrific upside at 26 with a 6'1/203-pound build. Injuries have been the biggest knock against him. Still, Williams is uber talented and worth an investment. He was drafted in 2004, when current Vikings DC Leslie Frazier was running the Bengals' defense.

Prediction: Vikings - 7 years, $42.5 million ($17.5 million guaranteed)

2. Gibril Wilson (Giants) - Wilson moved from strong to free safety in 2007 and had his best season, picking off four balls and batting down seven. He's had consistency issues, but is entering his prime at age 26. Wilson knows Eagles DC Jim Johnson's scheme, having played in it for Johnson disciple Steve Spagnuolo in 2007. The Birds can't rely on Brian Dawkins, 34, to be a full-time player any longer. Wilson will likely be the first big-name safety to sign. NY Giants

Prediction: Eagles - 7 years, $42 million ($17 million guaranteed)

3. Yeremiah Bell (Dolphins) - After overtaking Travares Tillman and playing like a man possessed the season previous (three forced fumbles, two recoveries, 70 tackles, 12 breakups in '06), Bell appeared set to break out in 2007. But he tore his Achilles in Week 1. The injury will turn some teams off, but Bell is a thumper who will look to rehab his value for modest means.
miamidolphins.com
Prediction: Raiders - 1 year, $2.5 million ($1 million guaranteed)

4. Eugene Wilson (Patriots) - The No. 36 overall pick in 2003, Wilson doesn't lack for natural ability, but shaky confidence and injuries have hampered him since 2005. Also capable of playing some corner, Wilson brings versatility, but will likely be overpaid coming from a Super Bowl team. He's a high risk signing smart GMs will make sure to stay away from.

Prediction: Redskins - $4 years, $21 million ($7 million guaranteed)

5. Will Demps (Texans) - Demps was somehow named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2007, voted in by the players. The former undrafted free agent must have made some friends during his three stops around the league in four seasons. He started eight games and had no interceptions as Houston's free safety. Demps would likely fit best as a third safety with his fourth team, but will probably be overvalued.

Prediction: Bengals - 2 years, $7 million ($3.5 million guaranteed)

6. Dwight Smith (Vikings) - Pure free safety is on the Steelers and Lions' radar, but has ran into several off-field issues the past two years and could be suspended if he has another hiccup. minnesotavikings.com
7. Chris Crocker (Falcons) - Can be a productive tackler and is only 27, but played out of position as a free safety in Atlanta. At 5'11/192, Crocker is also a bit undersized to be a full-time strong safety. atlantafalcons.com
8. Tank Williams (Vikings) - 'Tweener safety likely to return as Vikings' top reserve.
9. Erik Coleman (Jets) - Posted 100 tackles in each of his first three years (2004-2006), but was a fixture in Eric Mangini's doghouse. He's worth a flier as a competing-to-start SS. newyorkjets.com
10. Mike Doss (Vikings) - Was an overrated 2003 draft choice coming out of Ohio State in an extremely talented secondary. Doss has also lost speed after tearing his ACL in 2006. He shouldn't be viewed as a starter.

Others of note: Terrence Holt (Cardinals), Bryan Scott (Bills), Pierson Prioleau (Redskins), Deke Cooper (Panthers), Matt Ware (Cardinals), Gary Baxter (Browns), Donnie Nickey (Titans), Keith Davis (Cowboys), Kalvin Pearson (Bucs), Michael Boulware (Texans), Sammy Knight (Jaguars), Idrees Bashir (Lions), Travares Tillman (Dolphins), Hanik Milligan (Rams), Marquand Manuel (Panthers), Jarrod Cooper (Raiders), Jason Simmons (Texans), Nick Ferguson (Broncos), Gerome Sapp (Ravens), Craig Dahl (Giants), Glenn Earl (Texans)

[SIZE=+1]Restricted Free Agent Safeties[/SIZE]

1. O.J. Atogwe (Rams) - Emerging premier playmaker has 11 interceptions, five forced fumbles, two recoveries, and 22 breakups the last two seasons. If the Rams can't get Atogwe locked up shortly, he'll get the first-round tender.
2. C.C. Brown (Texans) - Finally played in the box more last year and excelled, notching 84 tackles, 2 FFs, 3 FRs, and 8 passes defended. He needs a second-round tender at least.
3. Atari Bigby (Packers) - Can stuggle against tight ends, but packs a punch. The 220-pound strong-side safety picked off five passes and popped loose three fumbles in 2007. Since he was undrafted, he must be tendered high. greenbaypackers.com
4. Gerald Sensabaugh (Jaguars) - Eye-popping athlete should face competition after missing 14 games last year due to shoulder injuries. He's recovering from surgery to repair two torn labrums, but offers nice upside at age 24 and 6'0/220. jacksonvillejaguars.com
5. James Butler (Giants) - Showed he can be a steady player last year before encountering injuries. Michael Johnson should get a shot to start this time around. NY Giants
6. Hamza Abdullah (Broncos) - Denver is trying to lock up Abdullah, a former seventh-round compensatory pick. He'll get the second-round tender if no deal is struck.
7. Brandon McGowan (Bears) - Overtook Adam Archuleta to start at SS in 2007, but Archie will have every opportunity to win his job back this summer.
8. Vincent Fuller (Titans) - Solid center field safety at Virginia Tech hasn't developed as hoped. He'll be safe with a low tender. tennesseetitans.com

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

FA in a Nutshell: Defense

Hide your mediocre defensive linemen; free agency is right around the corner! We recapped the offensive positions earlier in the week. Our summary of the best defensive players available is below.

[SIZE=+1]Top Five Defensive Linemen[/SIZE]

1. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=2539"]Justin Smith[/URL], Bengals DE: Lightweight end with a high motor can track down running backs. He's an average starter that will be paid like a superstar.

2. Chris Canty, Cowboys DE (Restricted): Dallas should retain Canty with a first-round tender.

3. Jevon Kearse, Eagles DE: He's not a free agent yet, but will be soon. Kearse has huge injury concerns, but will be a good risk/reward pickup at a reduced price.

4. Antwan Odom, Titans DE: Ah, glorious upside. Someone will overpay this 26-year old after a career high 8 sacks, but will he look as good away from Albert Haynesworth? tennesseetitans.com

5. Tommy Kelly, Raiders DE: He's coming off an injury, but 3-4 teams may view him as a value pickup. oaklandraiders.com

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Marques Douglas, 49ers: He's not getting any younger, but Douglas can be a productive rotation member in any system.

Randy Starks, Titans DT: There are off-field concerns, but Starks has shown flashes of talent as a pro.

[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Simeon Rice, Colts DE: His mouth moves faster than his feet at this point.
indianapoliscolts.com
Travis LaBoy, Titans DE: Injuries and mediocre play limit his attractiveness.

[SIZE=+1]Top Five Linebackers[/SIZE]

1. Lance Briggs, Bears: Once thought to be the product of Chicago's system, Briggs has emerged from Brian Urlacher's shadow. We'll guess that Washington will make him the highest paid 'backer in football.

2. Michael Boley, Falcons (Restricted): Versatile pro made big plays and recorded over 100 tackles despite playing on the strong side in '08. The Falcons should do what's necessary to keep him. atlantafalcons.com

3. Calvin Pace, Cardinals DE/OLB: He could play with his hand down in a 4-3, but he shined as a 3-4 OLB in 2007. He's a solid starter. arizonacardinals.com

4. Rosevelt Colvin, Patriots OLB: New England wouldn't have released him if not for a huge salary. Colvin is coming off foot surgery, but can still rush the passer.

5. Kawika Mitchell, Giants OLB: A disappointment in Kansas City, he was a underrated lynchpin to the Giants defense. NY Giants

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Landon Johnson, Bengals: The Bengals most consistent linebacker, Johnson can play every position well enough.

DeMorrio Williams, Falcons: He can't take on blockers, but the lightweight tackle machine had a huge 2005 season.

[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Dan Morgan, Panthers: He's one concussion away from his career being over. carolinapanthers.com



[SIZE=+1]Top Five Defensive Backs[/SIZE]

1. Asante Samuel, Patriots CB:Foxborough favorites often lose their shine away from New England, and that could happen to this gambling cornerback. He's closer to a borderline Pro Bowler than a top-five cornerback.

2. Gibril Wilson, Giants S: New York's best player in the secondary for years, Wilson is a tackling machine with some versatility. NY Giants

3. Madieu Williams, Bengals FS: One of the few free safeties in the league that can truly cover. That skill is growing more valuable in this pass-happy league.

4. Drayton Florence, Chargers CB: He's a league average starter at best, but he's experienced and had an excellent 2006 seasons. sandiegochargers.com

5. Brian Kelly, Bucs CB: Cover two veteran could slide to safety eventually. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

[SIZE=+1]Sleepers[/SIZE]

Erik Coleman, Jets: Didn't fit with Eric Mangini's system, but his career started well in zone defense. newyorkjets.com

Eugene Wilson, Patriots: Depending on the price, this two-time Super Bowl starter could revive his career with a fresh start.

[SIZE=+1]Buyer Beware[/SIZE]

Randall Gay, Patriots: A useful role player, but may require a Patriot tax to leave that won't be worth it.

Ty Law, Chiefs: Reputation finally catching up to his ability, which has been in decline since his last season in New England. kansascitychiefs.com

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

After the Free Agency Frenzy
We were so ready to overhype Michael Turner. The Burner had everything Fantasy Nation craves: size (235 pounds), speed (three career runs over 70 yards), and a bucket full of upside. He was the next great fantasy star. If only he didn't sign with the Falcons.

While Atlanta was Turner's most logical destination, his chance for stardom just got hit hard. Turner better get used to it; he's going to have to work for his yards playing with a questionable quarterback and offensive line. Turner should still get drafted early (late second round), but he's not a top-15 pick. There is also some talk of a Jacksonville-like time-share with Jerious Norwood stealing snaps. We'll watch that closely, because Turner may need 300 carries to earn his value.

Turner's signing wasn't the only story making fantasy waves in the early days of the free agency frenzy. Let's take a look at the stories with major fantasy impact from around the league.

[SIZE=+1]Off the Assembly Line[/SIZE]

The Jacksonville Jaguars receivers look good coming off a bus. They are the most physically imposing unit in the league as long as you don't peak at their numbers.
jacksonvillejaguars.com
Jerry Porter will fit right in. Considering his big contract, Porter will be the nominal "number one" wideout in Jacksonville, with Reggie Williams, Matt Jones, Dennis Northcutt, and Mike Walker fighting for snaps.

I was impressed by Porter's playmaking on a bad Oakland team last year. He has plenty left in the tank and is excellent in the red zone. Still, there are only so many targets to go around on Jacksonville's run-first, spread-the-wealth offense. His numbers should get a slight boost, but he still looks like a borderline fantasy WR3.

[SIZE=+1]Selling yourself short[/SIZE]

Billy Volek was a little too eager to sign up for three more years of backing up Philip Rivers. If he wanted to play, he could have waited out the market and possibly competed to start in Minnesota or found a backup role with a better shot at playing time.

[SIZE=+1]Selling yourself large[/SIZE]

Javon Walker's agent told ESPN that over a third of the league was interested in his client. Team sources from Washington, San Francisco, Carolina, and Philadelphia immediately disputed any interest. Walker's agent is selling damaged goods and his client thinks he's a star when he's a supporting player. He could sit on the market for a while.

[SIZE=+1]Good receivers joining bad passing attacks[/SIZE]

The worst passing teams were willing to overpay for receiver help in the first days of free agency. This could lead to a lot of headlines, but disappointing fantasy totals.

1. Bernard Berrian to the Vikings
minnesotavikings.com
It's hard to downgrade from Rex Grossman, but Berrian managed it. The Vikings throw less than any team in the league, and they aren't efficient when they do. Tarvaris Jackson has a big arm, but is known to spray his deep balls all over the place. Now he has two similar deep threats in Bernard Berrian and Sidney Rice.

Berrian is a solid number two receiver who will be asked to carry a bad passing attack. He'll help the Vikings, but that's a recipe for declining numbers and disappointed fantasy owners.

2. Isaac Bruce to the 49ers

Bruce is joining an inferior offense, but at least he's reuniting with old pal Mike Martz. Bruce will be years ahead of his teammates in learning the offense, and will make life easier for the 49ers starting quarterback. This is Martz's most difficult rebuilding job. Bruce should start from day one and is the favorite to lead the 49ers in receiving, but he would do well just to maintain his numbers from St. Louis

3. Ernest Wilford to the Dolphins
miamidolphins.com
Wilford, 29, plays like an old Keyshawn Johnson. He blocks, he's tough in the red zone, and he won't cheat you in effort.

He also isn't going to help your fantasy football team. Wilford is the favorite to start opposite Ted Ginn, and could see more snaps in Miami than Jacksonville. Until the Dolphins solve their quarterback problem, though, he's unlikely to post replacement level fantasy numbers.
<!--RW-->
[SIZE=+1]Gathering no Moss[/SIZE]

Now that Randy Moss has warded off Philadelphia's flirtations, the big question becomes: Can Brady and Moss do it again?

If they get anywhere close, they are worth first-round picks. If Brady's touchdowns fall back to a more reasonable rangle of 30-35 scores, it will be tough for both players to live up to their draft slot. We've got a long way to go, but I'd take Moss before Brady.

[SIZE=+1]Jackpot[/SIZE]

NFL players don't always get a quality second (or third) chance. That wasn't the case for these guys.

1. Like Travis Henry in Denver last year, Keary Colbert is getting a dream opportunity to put up numbers. Let's hope Colbert doesn't celebrate by testing positive on every drug and paternity test he takes this summer.

Expect Denver to find more competition for Colbert than Brandon Stokley, but he's the favorite for now to start opposite Brandon Marshall.

2. Devery Henderson is getting one more chance to disappoint the New Orleans Saints. If he can't get it done in that offense, he's not going to elsewhere.

3. Donte Stallworth is on his fourth team in as many years, which is usually a bad sign. But Cleveland is an ideal fit because of Derek Anderson's deep ball and the weapons around Stallworth. He works best as a complementary part, and will be the third option on most plays. Look for a bump from his New England numbers, but he's not going to be a 1,000-yard receiver.

4. The odds are against Brian Griese ever mattering to fantasy leaguers again. But if it's going to happen, it's going to happen with Jon Gruden.

[SIZE=+1]This Week in Jason David[/SIZE]

Last year, the Saints signed a marginal cornerback with championship experience, and then shoehorned him into a system that didn't fit his skills. That didn't work out so well, but it did become a weekly segment in The Morning After .

After learning from the experience, this year the Saints signed a marginal cornerback with championship experience, and will try to shoehorn him into a new system that exposes his flaws. Randall Gay will only be a decent signing if the Saints expect him to come off the bench.

[SIZE=+1]Crickets[/SIZE]

D.J. Hackett's price tag and durability questions are scaring away potential suitors. He's expected to talk to the Titans and possibly Redskins this week, but he may have to lower his contract demands.

[SIZE=+1]Bad Tidings[/SIZE]

Detroit and New Orleans have been actively looking for running backs in the free agent market. That doesn't bode well for Kevin Jones and Deuce McAllister's status heading into next year. The Saints re-signed Aaron Stecker, possibly setting up a release of McAllister in the summer. The Bucs also have been active, indicating that they want more options behind Earnest Graham. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

[SIZE=+1]Crumptastic[/SIZE]

Alge Crumpler has been one of the most consistent fantasy tight end options this decade, but his struggles to get a decent contract on the open market is a concern. His knees and weight problem have made him a different player.

With that said, Tennessee is a nice landing spot to resurrect his career. They always find production from tight ends (147 catches from the Kinney/Scaife/Troupe trio in 2005), and Crumpler will be a Vince Young favorite. With all the young talent league-wide at the position, Crumpler will still struggle to be ranked in our top ten. tennesseetitans.com

[SIZE=+1]Best Free Agents still available[/SIZE]

Quarterbacks

1. Byron Leftwich
2. Daunte Culpepper
3. Quinn Gray
4. Brian Griese
5. Trent Green

Running Backs

1. Julius Jones
2. Derrick Ward
3. Warrick Dunn
4. Ron Dayne
5. Musa Smith
6. Chris Brown
7. Jesse Chatman
8. T.J. Duckett
9. Tatum Bell

Wide Receivers

1. D.J. Hackett
2. Javon Walker
3. Bryant Johnson
4. Marty Booker
5. Jabar Gaffney

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Combine Winners and Losers
This year's Combine had a few surprises to it. There were some players that really raised their draft stock, while there were some that really hurt themselves. Here is a look at the players who both raised and lowered their draft stock:

Joe Flacco, Delaware QB: Flacco in my eyes has solidified himself as one of the top three quarterbacks in this year's draft. He came into the Combine and did a great job of showing off his arm. He did everything right and was even great in the interview process. I fully expect Flacco to be off the board in the Early-2nd Round.

Josh Johnson, San Diego QB: Johnson has been a bit over-hyped by the media, but it's for a good reason. Running a 4.55 second 40-yard dash really helped him establish himself as the most athletic quarterback in this year's class. He's also got a pretty good arm. Some scouts have compared Johnson with Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson, however I think that Johnson is better. He is more polished of a passer, although he likely won't go in the 2nd Round like Jackson did. I'd project that Johnson could potentially go as high as the 3rd Round, with the 4th being a safe bet.

Chris Johnson, East Carolina RB: I don't think Johnson has gotten enough credit for his 4.24 40-yard dash. That is among the best ever at the Combine, yet it doesn't seem like he's gotten that much attention. I think that Johnson is another player who has solidified himself as a 2nd Round pick.

Carl Stewart, Auburn RB: Stewart had the best vertical of any player at the Combine at 39 inches. That's better than any other running back, receiver, or vertical jump. He also led the running backs with most bench press reps with 30. As Stewart was a bit of an unknown for many people, he's now put himself on the map and could be a nice Mid-Late Round pick.

Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech WR: Whenever a 180 lb wide receiver posts the most reps on bench by any wideout, it will surely garner some attention. With 24 reps in the weight room and a 4.39 40 on the field, Royal has really impressed scouts. I think that he has the potential to go as high as the 2nd Round, with the 3rd being a more likely option.

[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4723"]Dexter Jackson[/URL], Appalachian State WR: Running as high as a 4.27 in the 40-yard dash is one way to really help your draft stock. Jackson has been blazing ever since Week 1 of the college football season when he tore up the Michigan secondary. At this point, I'd project that Jackson will be drafted in the 4th-5th Round.

Dustin Keller, Purdue TE: Keller opened scouts eyes this weekend as he took advantage of the fact that Fred Davis didn't run. He's really raised his stock and could be among the top two or three tight ends off the board come April 26th. He was first among tight ends in the 40 (4.55), second in bench (26), first in vertical (38 inches), and first in broad jump (10'11")

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Draft '08: The Running Backs
The NFL Scouting Combine can be used as a tool to separate the top draft-eligible players at certain positions. However, none of this year's elite ball carriers pulled a Mario Manningham. Everyone on this list impressed. Here's a look at 2008's best running back prospects.

In case you missed it, here's our QB report.

[SIZE=+1]1. Darren McFadden, Arkansas[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'1/211
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.33 forty, 33" vertical, 10.8' broad jump
Comparison: Marcus Allen
Draft Projection: Top 10
2007 Statistics: 325-1830-5.6-16 Tds, 21-164-7.8-1 Td

Positives: McFadden's size-speed combination is freakish and unrivaled. He has three years of exceptional production in the SEC on his resume. The Razorbacks' offensive line was not elite and regularly faced more talented front sevens. McFadden will be 20 when drafted and has a better shot at a 10-12 year career than most draft-eligible backs. His protections are considered sound and McFadden is relentless in all areas. He is a solid receiver, uses a fierce stiff arm, and has open-field moves that should be highly effective at the next level.

Negatives: McFadden must add leg strength. He carries minor durability concerns after playing his freshman year with torn knee cartilage and needing an offseason scope. McFadden's off-field decision making is suspect; he was involved in a parking lot brawl and PianoBarGate in college. He fumbled 23 times in three seasons, losing nine.

Verdict: McFadden has the passion and talent to be a great NFL player, but is unlikely to be a top-five pick due to off-the-field issues. The Jets at No. 6 appear to be the best landing spot for McFadden. He'd work well as a combo back with Thomas Jones to begin his career.

[SIZE=+1]2. Rashard Mendenhall, Illinois[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'10/225
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.45 forty, 26 X 225 lbs, 33" vertical, 4.18 short shuttle
Comparison: Ronnie Brown
Draft Projection: Top 15
2007 Statistics: 262-1681-6.4-17 Tds, 34-318-9.4-2 Tds

Positives: Mendenhall is thickly built with strong extremities. Despite relatively limited playing time (he had fewer than 130 career carries heading to 2007), Mendenhall hit 16 plays of 25+ yards at Illinois. The 2007 Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year, Mendenhall earned Academic All Conference honors and is an intelligent individual. He has terrific second-gear speed, is versatile, and a dual threat. There are no obvious weaknesses in his game.

Negatives: Mendenhall started only one year at U of I. He played in a spread-option offense that frequently ran plays from the gun. Prospects in that scheme can be harder to evaluate. Mendenhall probably won't get much bigger, and if he does, could lose speed and quickness.

Verdict: Mendenhall was sensational against USC in the Rose Bowl, running by, through, and around defenders that will play against him in the pros. Mendenhall has been especially impressive in pre-draft all star events, demonstrating a herculean build and timing well. He is only 20, but developed physically. Mendenhall is a far better all-around prospect than Marshawn Lynch, the No. 12 pick overall in 2007, and is nipping at McFadden's heels.

[SIZE=+1]3. Jonathan Stewart, Oregon[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'10/235
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.48 forty, 28 X 225 lbs, 36" vertical, 10.8' broad jump
Comparison: Shaun Alexander
Draft Projection: Top 20
2007 Statistics: 280-1722-6.2-11 Tds, 22-145-6.6-2 Tds

Positives: Stewart has remarkable strength and can be a punisher. He has experience on special teams as a kick returner and was extremely productive in that role. Stewart has a quintessential power back body and is a balanced runner. He is a skilled receiver out of the backfield. Stewart is a workout warrior and set several weight room records at Oregon.

Negatives: Stewart can be too shifty. His 2007 touchdown total reflects that he needs to improve his red-zone efficiency. Stewart was actually more productive per touch in that area prior to 2007. He often dealt with minor, nagging injuries in college, but played through them.

Verdict: Among the top three backs in this draft, Stewart is arguably the most prepared to immediately be featured. He doesn't have the long-range upside of McFadden or Mendenhall, but may be the best fit in a power-based running offense. Stewart's work ethic among the draft's elite RBs stands out.

[SIZE=+1]4. Ray Rice, Rutgers[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'8/200
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.44 forty, 23 X 225 lbs, 31" vertical, 4.20 short shuttle
Comparison: Frank Gore
Draft Projection: Second round
2007 Statistics: 380-2012-5.3-24 Tds, 25-239-9.6-1 Td

Positives: Despite his modest build, Rice is fearless in short yardage. He has a nose for the end zone and plays bigger than his size. Rice is a "gamer" who may not impress getting off the bus, but delivers on the field. He is an instinctive, patient runner with ideal experience as a three-year starter. Rice never missed a game in college and showed in 2007 (after Brian Leonard left) that he can handle every-down responsibilities.

Negatives: Rice won't run around or by many NFL defenders. He isn't as versatile as McFadden, Mendenhall, Stewart, or Matt Forte. Rice's offensive line dominated the Big East; as many as three members of the Scarlet Knights' 2007 unit will be drafted in April. He is considered raw as a route runner.

Verdict: Rice isn't necessarily a burner or a bruiser, but runs with heart like Frank Gore and displays a similar "football junkie" mentality. He will begin his NFL career as a backup, but is unlikely to fail when given an opportunity. Rice is a product of The Bronx.

[SIZE=+1]5. Felix Jones, Arkansas[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'10/207
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.47 forty, 8 X 225 lbs, 33" vertical, 10.4' broad jump, 4.19 short shuttle
Comparison: Laurence Maroney
Draft Projection: Late first to early second round
2007 Statistics: 133-1162-8.7-11 Tds, 16-176-11.0-0 Tds

Positives: Jones is a highly elusive outside runner. He scored four times in three years as a kickoff returner and averaged 31.3 yards per KR as a junior. Having playing behind Darren McFadden since 2005, Jones' legs are fresh. He makes one cut and gets vertical in a hurry. Jones flashed soft hands, good route running, and homerun ability after the catch at Arkansas.

Negatives: Jones is inexperienced as an every-down back and is not developed physically. He is small and could be run over by blitzing linebackers and strong safeties in the pros. Jones is a gambler and can be streaky as a ball carrier.

Verdict: Jones measured in at the Combine two inches shorter than his college listing. While there's little means to guage how he might fare as a future starter, his lack of an ideal build to fill out is discouraging. It's not out of the question that he will be something more, but the odds favor Jones having a career as a complementary piece, not a lead back.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]6. Matt Forte, Tulane[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'1/221
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.46 forty, 23 X 225 lbs, 33" vertical, 4.23 short shuttle
Comparison: Sammy Morris
Draft Projection: Late second to early third round
2007 Statistics: 361-2127-5.9-23 Tds, 32-282-8.8-0 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Versatility is his defining trait. Rarely are pure power backs such natural pass catchers. Forte was a mainstay on Green Wave special teams units into his breakout senior campaign and is unselfish. A three-year starter, Forte is a patient inside runner with impressive strength. Forte ran a nice forty at the Combine, but is unlikely to consistently lose NFL linebackers or defensive backs. His 2006 season ended after eight games due to a knee injury, making durability a concern.

Verdict: After facing subpar competition in Conference USA, Forte showed at the Senior Bowl that he can excel against NFL-caliber players. He will attract power running teams that appreciate toughness and multifaceted skills. Forte is unlikely to be a capable starter as a rookie, but will help immediately in other ways and could evolve into a three-down back or valuable Sammy Morris-type fullback.

[SIZE=+1]7. Chris Johnson, East Carolina[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'11/197
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.24 forty, 35" vertical, 10.1' broad jump
Comparison: Leon Washington
Draft Projection: Late second to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 236-1423-6.0-17 Tds, 37-528-14.3-6 Tds

Positives/Negatives: From a straight-line standpoint, Johnson may be the fastest player in the NFL as a rookie. The four-year starter was used often as a slot receiver at ECU and catches the ball exceptionally well downfield. Few, if any, NFL defenders will tackle him from behind. A game breaking kick returner, Johnson led the nation in all-purpose yards per game as a senior (227.7). However, he had neck surgery in spring 2006 and missed a start that year with turf toe. He lacks good strength and is not an inside runner. Johnson is considered poor in pass protection and put the ball on the ground too much in college.

Verdict: He has a stringbean frame and isn't as elusive as Reggie Bush, who's failed as an every-down back in the pros. Johnson can be used in a number of ways, which increases his value, but is unlikely to ever be a full-time starter. Durability is a big concern. Johnson can be an explosive weapon, but his lack of ideal size and strength makes him no more than a change-of-pace/return prospect.

[SIZE=+1]8. Jamaal Charles, Texas[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'11/200
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.38 forty, 30" vertical, 4.22 short shuttle
Comparison: Jerious Norwood
Draft Projection: Late second to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 258-1619-6.3-18 Tds, 17-199-11.7-0 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Charles can be a dancer behind the line of scrimmage, especially in short-yardage situations. He had fumbling issues throughout his Longhorns career and they cost him a chance to start in 2006. Charles has elite, galloping speed and burst, but isn't a punisher. His lean frame and high running style can leave Charles susceptible to big hits. He was an All Academic Big 12 honoree, so intelligence isn't an issue.

Verdict: Charles gave up track and improved markedly as a junior, but there are question marks about his ball security, size, and staying power in the NFL after an up-and-down college career. Somewhat like [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] in 2007, Charles appears to be a boom-or-bust prospect that may never see the field consistently if he puts the ball on the ground in practice as a pro.

[SIZE=+1]9. Kevin Smith, Central Florida[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'1/217
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.43 forty, 32" vertical
Comparison: DeShaun Foster
Draft Projection: Late third to fourth round
2007 Statistics: 450-2567-5.7-29 Tds, 24-242-10.1-1 Td

Positives/Negatives: Smith led the nation in rushing as a junior. He finishes his runs and will stiff arm defenders. Smith is experienced in the passing game as a blocker and receiver. He has a long, strong frame with room to fill out. However, his number of 2007 carries is staggering and sends up a red flag. Smith had 30 or more in eight games and 40+ in four. He faced weak defenses in C-USA and was benched for a game in 2006 for disciplinary reasons.

Verdict: Smith has decent all-around measurables, but is a shifty back who sometimes runs too high. He may be just now coming into his own as a player, but his long-term upside is limited because of his average athleticism. Smith's NFL career may be shortened due to his startling overuse at UCF.

[SIZE=+1]10. Jalen Parmele, Toledo[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'11/224
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.47 forty, 19 X 225 lbs, 34" vertical, 10.5' broad jump
Comparison: Ryan Grant
Draft Projection: Fourth to sixth round
2007 Statistics: 276-1511-5.5-14 Tds, 17-157-9.2-1 Td

Positives/Negatives: Parmele is an outstanding athlete. He has close to ideal size and speed. A two-time All-MAC first teamer, Parmele has a track background and returned kicks into his senior year, averaging 28 yards per return with a TD. Parmele has soft hands and is considered a balanced cutback runner with good vision. He is experienced in a spread offense that incorporated zone running. However, Parmele faced poor competition at Toledo and struggled to consistently make defenders miss at that level. He is not considered overly powerful or elusive.

Verdict: Parmele is a developmental back who could flourish in a one-cut system (i.e. Denver, Carolina, Green Bay, or Houston). He may not excel in a power running scheme, but because of his all-around tools and vertical speed, could emerge as the draft's premier sleeper if he lands in the right spot. Parmele will help initially on special teams, particularly on returns.

[SIZE=+1]11. Justin Forsett, California[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]12. Tashard Choice, Georgia Tech[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]13. Anthony Alridge, Houston[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]14. Steve Slaton, West Virginia[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]15. Ryan Torain, Arizona State[/SIZE]

Other RBs with a Good Shot to be Drafted: Thomas Brown (Georgia), Kalvin McRae (Ohio), Chauncey Washington (USC), Mike Hart (Michigan), Cory Boyd (South Carolina), Dantrell Savage (Oklahoma State), Allen Patrick (Oklahoma), Yvenson Bernard (Oregon State), Benjarvus Green-Ellis (Ole Miss), Jehuu Caulcrick (Michigan State), Rafael Little (Kentucky), Xavier Omon (NW Missouri St.), Tim Hightower (Richmond), Marcus Thomas (UTEP), Kregg Lumpkin (Georgia)

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Collateral Damage
Football is our truest team sport; It's nearly impossible to extract a player's ability from his system and teammates. Derek Anderson, for instance, went from a scrub to a stud in one year. But was Anderson responsible for that transformation or was it Cleveland's vastly improved offensive line and young receivers? clevelandbrowns.com

There is no right answer, and the ambiguity makes player evaluation difficult in fantasy football and the NFL. We focus on the individual in fantasy, but the personnel around him often means more. All player movement, or lack thereof, has a ripple effect on the entire team. After recapping the free agency frenzy last week, let's take our annual look at what players have suffered the most collateral damage during free agency.

[SIZE=+1]Larry Johnson, Chiefs[/SIZE]

Offensive lines usually make running backs, not the other way around. That's why Priest Holmes and Larry Johnson were once fantasy stars, and why LJ is no longer. Kansas City wanted to sign the best available free agent center, Jeff Faine, but they couldn't even get him to visit. kansascitychiefs.com

Ideally, three of Kansas City's starters on the offensive aren't yet on the roster. They are also looking for a wide receiver. And should be looking for a quarterback. Larry Johnson was smart as hell for holding out last year while he could.

[SIZE=+1]Jay Cutler, Broncos[/SIZE]

I want to shower Cutler with Rotoworld hype, but Mike Shanahan is making it hard. Javon Walker is no great loss, but Keary Colbert is his replacement? I hoped Denver would upgrade its running game, but they choose to keep Travis Henry. The offensive line also has more questions than they have in a decade.

[SIZE=+1]Willie Parker, Steelers[/SIZE]

Mewelde Moore is going to pick up some third-down work. Najeh Davenport is likely to vulture some touchdowns, even if he plays smaller than any 245-pound back in NFL history. Take away those high leverage fantasy situations, and Fast Willie begins to look like a RB2.

[SIZE=+1]Michael Bush, Raiders [/SIZE]

Re-signing Justin Fargas was a problem. Holding on to Dominic Rhodes was worse. Bush is seen as the next great power running back by many fantasy heads, but that's just guesswork. oaklandraiders.com

Bush has played one football game the last two years. Expecting him to jump into NFL life at full speed is overly optimistic. He's behind two veterans who played well in Oakland's scheme last year. Plus Darren McFadden is going to be awfully tempting for crazy Al at the top of the draft.

[SIZE=+1]Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks [/SIZE]

Through no fault of his own, Hasselbeck is due to take a step back in 2008. He set a career high in pass attempts (by 49) and TDs (by 2) largely because of Seattle's impotent running game.

The signings of Julius Jones and T.J. Duckett should balance out the attack, which is necessary because Hasselbeck's receiver group has a lot of question marks. Deion Branch is expected to miss half the season, while D.J. Hackett is still a free agent. Nate Burleson is inconsistent, and youngsters like Courtney Taylor and Ben Obomanu have barely played. Expecting Bobby Engram to be a "number one" receiver again is dangerous.

[SIZE=+1]Drew Brees, Saints[/SIZE]

Sean Payton is an expert at making passing game gumbo from leftover ingredients, but wouldn't it be nice to see Drew Brees with more weapons than a seventh-round receiver from Hofstra? Or at least trying some new ones?

Re-signing David Patten, Eric Johnson, Billy Miller, Devery Henderson, and Terrance Copper was an exercise in good enough. These replacement level receivers will have to be good enough because upgrading the defense took priority.

That could bite Brees eventually, especially if Marques Colston is ever seriously hurt. An early draft pick at wideout or tight end wouldn't be a shock.

[SIZE=+1]Jerious Norwood, Falcons[/SIZE]

Only Michael Vick has averaged more yards-per-carry this decade (minimum 200 attempts), but Jerious Norwood is stuck in a supporting role now. Best case scenario, Norwood will pick up an extra 50 carries playing in a committee behind Michael Turner. He looks like a fantasy asset that will be nice to own, but doesn't live up to his draft stock Again. atlantafalcons.com

[SIZE=+1]Roddy White, Falcons[/SIZE]

Chris Redman will be throwing him the ball in a run-first offense. Sign me up!

[SIZE=+1]Brodie Croyle, Chiefs[/SIZE]

See Larry Johnson. It's hard to divorce Croyle from the terrible team around him, but he's not helping the situation. Perhaps no quarterback looked more overwhelmed by his situation than Croyle.

[SIZE=+1]Jeff Garcia, Bucs[/SIZE]

A quarterback's job security in Tampa is always only a Jon Gruden tirade away (lovingly captured by NFL Films). Garcia, 38, is The Man for now, but his terrible late season performances are surely in Gruden's mind and Garcia hasn't received the contract extension he wants, giving him ammunition for his annual grumbling to the press. The Bucs also traded for Brian Griese, perhaps making Garcia's leash shorter than it's owner. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

Editor's Note: I had a critical paragraph written here about the team's receiver group (Michael Clayton, Ike Hilliard, and Maurice Stovall), but they made a nice risk-reward pickup in Antonio Bryant.

<!--RW-->[SIZE=+1]Donald Driver, Packers[/SIZE]

BF's BFF (okay, shoot me now) is going to suffer the most of the Packers receivers. Driver consistently racked up targets because Brett Favre trusted him most of the Green Bay receivers. Greg Jennings and James Jones should get bigger slices of the pie with Aaron Rodgers under center. greenbaypackers.com

[SIZE=+1]Derek Hagan, Dolphins[/SIZE]

When a new coaching staff takes over, leftover players either get a fresh start or they get buried. Usually it's the latter, and it appears that's happening to Hagan. miamidolphins.com

Hagan is only entering his third season, but he was drafted two coaches ago. Ernest Wilford is a similar player making far more money. A starting job is unlikely.

[SIZE=+1]Jason Campbell, Redskins [/SIZE]

Nothing outrageous here, but Campbell must learn yet another new offense - his seventh in eight years. Washington is still a receiving starter short with Antwaan Randle El fitting best in the slot. The Redskins say Todd Collins isn't a threat to Campbell's job, but any prolonged slump is going to get the Washington natives restless. washingtonredskins.com

[SIZE=+1]Trent Edwards, Bills [/SIZE]

The Bills are desperate for a playmaker, but their biggest offensive signing thus far has been ? Jason Whittle. Look for them to draft a wideout early.
buffalobills.com
[SIZE=+1]Bears Fans[/SIZE]

Losing Bernard Berrian and Muhsin Muhammad doesn't bother me half as much as keeping Kyle Orton and Rex Grossman. I'm not sure what the alternatives were, but it's hard to manufacture optimism about another season ol' Rexy, Cedric, and the gang.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Draft '08: The Wideouts
The 2008 receiver class doesn't have dominators like last year's version, but there's a lot of size at the top and some nice developmental athleticism to be had in later rounds. The puzzler is Mario Manningham. If Manningham had run even in the high 4.4s, he would've topped this list. Super Mario possesses rare second-gear explosiveness and still has a very good chance to be a starting caliber NFL player, but that lack of raw speed from Point A to Point B sends up a red flag. Will he be able to get free from better tackling cornerbacks with better technique?

Manningham took too many steps while running the forty. He looked like Fred Flinstone. It was almost as if he hadn't prepared and was all along just assuming he'd do well. Manningham should still go in the top three rounds, but would've had a much better chance to be a first-round draft choice if he had skipped the event altogether. No one could have guessed he'd run in the 4.60 range.

[SIZE=+1]1. Limas Sweed, Texas[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'4/212
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.46 forty, 35" vertical
Comparison: Herman Moore
Draft Projection: Late first to early second round
2007 Statistics: 19-306-16.1-3 Tds

Positives: Sweed does not drop passes he should catch, especially over his shoulder. He is a remarkably fluid athlete with near ideal top-end speed for his size. Sweed has an outstanding work ethic, on-field demeanor, and the confident swagger often found in "No. 1" receivers. He is not dominant over the middle, but understands how to avoid big hits. Sweed's arms measured the second longest at the Senior Bowl, behind only Adarius Bowman.

Negatives: Sweed's senior year ended after seven games due to wrist surgery. He also battled an ankle sprain during the season. Sweed aggravated the wrist injury at the Senior Bowl. He is considered a strong route runner, but could be more sudden out of his breaks. Sweed needs to improve his upper-body strength.

Verdict: Sweed's injury will likely keep him out of the top-15 picks in April, but he has the potential to be a Pro Bowl-caliber split end by year three. If Sweed can get his wrist straightened out, he should have no trouble being an above average to good rookie starter.

[SIZE=+1]2. Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'4/218
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: Did not participate (quadriceps/leg contusion)
Comparison: Taller T.J. Houshmandzadeh
Draft Projection: Late first to early second round
2007 Statistics: 49-821-16.8-9 Tds

Positives: Like Sweed, Kelly is a smooth athlete with sure hands and vertical ability. He is just as good as Sweed in the red zone, if not better. Kelly has big, strong hands and will win most jump balls. He's flashed being a power player and is difficult to bring down after the catch. Kelly was highly productive all three seasons at OU.

Negatives: Having played almost strictly split end in coach Bob Stoops' run-heavy attack, Kelly is somewhat inexperienced as a route runner. He was injured in both of the Sooners' last two Bowl games, raising questions about his big-game drive. Kelly needed surgery to repair a torn meniscus following OU's 2006 Fiesta Bowl loss to Boise State. His numbers dropped from his sophomore to junior year, though that was mostly due to his increased focus on downfield routes.

Verdict: Kelly's game will change as he makes the NFL leap. He will not be able to run away or separate from pro defensive backs as easily as he did in the Big 12. Kelly's combination of size and athleticism is similar to Sweed's, but he is less likely to make an immediate impact. In the long run, however, he could become a more complete player. Kelly is better suited for a West Coast offense.

[SIZE=+1]3. James Hardy, Indiana[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'6/218
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
Combine Results: 4.47 forty, 18 X 225 lbs, 10.05' broad jump, 4.20 short shuttle
Comparison: Plaxico Burress
Draft Projection: Late first to early second round
2007 Statistics: 79-1125-14.2-16 Tds

Positives: From a scoring standpoint, Hardy is in a league of his own. He caught 191 balls, scored 36 touchdowns, and never averaged fewer than 14.2 yards per catch in three years at IU. He has adequate explosiveness and long speed for his size. Hardy started three games for the Hoosiers' hoops team as a redshirt in 2004, was runner-up Mr. Basketball in Indiana as a prep senior, and is a natural athlete. He is fearless over the middle and took games over as a collegiate.

Negatives: Hardy was suspended two games as a sophomore after being accused of battery by his girlfriend. While his speed numbers look good on paper, the vertical game isn't his bread and butter. Hardy isn't much of an after-the-catch threat and is considered an inconsistent route runner. He needs to polish the "little things" in his game, including his blocking.

Verdict: Speed and off-the-line explosion are always question marks for freakishly tall wideouts, and Hardy did his best to answer them with an impressive Combine. However, his weaknesses in two crucial areas for rookies (blocking and route running) could lead to his first season resembling Dwayne Jarrett's. Hardy is an excellent prospect for the future, but teams in need of immediate receiver help should look elsewhere.

[SIZE=+1]4. Devin Thomas, Michigan State[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'2/217
College Experience: Fourth-year junior
Combine Results: 4.40 forty, 28" vertical, 10.06' broad jump
Comparison: Anquan Boldin
Draft Projection: Early to late second round
2007 Statistics: 79-1260-15.9-8 Tds, 27-177-6.6-0 Tds

Positives: While his timed speed is superior, Thomas is devastating after the catch like Anquan Boldin. He has an excellent build and strong, soft hands. Thomas is a gifted special teamer, having blocked punts at MSU and averaged 29.1 yards per kick return as a junior. He was the Spartans' only legitimate passing game weapon in 2007 and often carried the offense. Thomas is an instinctive wideout and plays with swagger.

Negatives: He had only one big season in the Big Ten and is raw as route runner, particularly in the downfield department. There is limited game film on Thomas and several of his big plays came after underneath throws. He'll need to refine the "little things" in his game to help a pro team as a rookie.

Verdict: While he may have been a first-round lock for the 2009 draft had he stayed in East Lansing another year, it's hard to knock Thomas for leaving early after a marvelous junior campaign. His postseason workouts have been phenomenal. Thomas is raw with kinks to work out, but won't have to be the focal point of his next offense. If an NFL team can take full advantage of Thomas' after-the-catch ability, he could emerge as the best receiver in the class when we re-evaluate in 2011.

[SIZE=+1]5. Mario Manningham, Michigan[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'0/182
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.59 forty, 16 X 225 lbs, 32" vertical
Comparison: Bernard Berrian
Draft Projection: Mid-second round to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 72-1174-16.3-12 Tds, 19-120-6.3-0 Tds

Positives: Manningham consistently beat elite defensive backs down the field in college. He scored 27 times in three seasons at Michigan and plays taller than his size would indicate. Manningham runs sharp, sudden routes and delivers in big games. His ability to track balls thrown deep, turn on the jets, and "go get it" is unrivaled among receivers in the 2008 class.

Negatives: Manningham is small and isn't a physical, over-the-middle threat. He is considered a poor blocker despite three years of experience in coach Lloyd Carr's run-first offense. After proving himself one of the nation's top vertical weapons, Manningham ran a disturbingly slow forty at the Combine. He was suspended one game in 2007 for violating a team rule. Manningham underwent arthroscopic knee surgery in fall of 2006.

Verdict: Despite the sup-par forty, "Super Mario" is not a slow player. Bernard Berrian (see comparison) ran a 4.58 at the 2004 Combine and is one of the NFL's premier deep threats. However, that time combined with some off-field baggage and Manningham's reputation as a prima donna will likely cost him a spot in the first round. It doesn't mean he won't evolve into one of the league's better No. 2 receivers, of course.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]6. Jordy Nelson, Kansas State[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'3/217
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.49 forty, 31" vertical
Comparison: Ed McCaffrey
Draft Projection: Mid-second round to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 122-1606-13.2-11 Tds, two passing TDs

Positives/Negatives: Nelson owned the Big 12 in just his third year at wide receiver. Recruited as a DB, he moved to wideout in his sophomore year and led the Wildcats in receiving all three seasons. A muscular specimen with arguably the surest hands in the nation, Nelson's route running is considered NFL ready and his blocking sound. While he isn't a true burner and will have difficulty separating from double teams in the NFL, Nelson is a hard worker and still improving. He is experienced on special teams as an annual member of the K-State "hands team." Nelson also blocked punts in college and made several tackles in kickoff coverage. He caught five punts in 2007, averaging 52.8 yards per return and running back two for scores.

Verdict: Nelson may be more of a possession weapon at the next level, but he's just beginning to hit his stride as a receiver. He ate up likely first-round CB Aqib Talib for 10 catches, 137 yards, and a touchdown in an October meeting with Kansas. Nelson isn't the best athlete in his class, but possesses every trait West Coast offenses value in a flanker.

[SIZE=+1]7. Earl Bennett, Vanderbilt[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'11/209
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.48 forty, 15 X 225 lbs, 4.22 short shuttle
Comparison: Jerricho Cotchery
Draft Projection: Early second round to early third round
2007 Statistics: 75-830-11.1-5 Tds, 10-22-2.2-0 Tds

Positives/Negatives: A physical wideout, Bennett has excelled against all brands of coverage. He was extremely productive all three years at Vandy, setting the all-time SEC record for receptions despite leaving school early. As a freshman with then-senior Jay Cutler, Bennett showed the ability to carry a passing game on his back. He is considered well rounded as a run blocker and route runner. However, Bennett lacks game-changing speed and quickness and worked primarily from the slot in college.

Verdict: In a wideout class brimming with boom-or-bust prospects, Bennett stands out as a safe bet to at worst be a solid pro. He's expressed a desire to be a slot receiver at the next level, and that may be the best position for him initially. In the long run, though, he will likely become an above average starting flanker.

[SIZE=+1]8. DeSean Jackson, California[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 5'9/169
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.35 forty, 10' broad jump
Comparison: Dennis Northcutt
Draft Projection: Late first to mid-second round
2007 Statistics: 65-762-11.7-6 Tds, 11-132-12.0-1 Td

Positives/Negatives: Jackson has a reputation for not liking the weight room. He measured in at the Combine three inches shorter and five pounds lighter than his college listing. While it can partially be attributed to shaky quarterback play, he put up relatively poor numbers as a receiver in 2007. Jackson has exceptional explosiveness and quickness and is an NFL-ready returner, but may struggle to beat coverage outside as a rookie. Jackson has been known to drop passes that hit him in the hands. He is considered a poor blocker.

Verdict: The cat is out of the bag on Jackson's height and there's nothing he can do about it now. But his lack of weight-room work ethic and unwillingness to get physical makes him a risky draft choice, especially in round one. It's scary to think what might happen if he is asked to go over the middle in the NFL. There is seemingly a good chance that Jackson will only have return value in the pros, ala Desmond Howard.

[SIZE=+1]9. Early Doucet, LSU[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'0/211
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: Did not participate (hamstring)
Comparison: Marty Booker
Draft Projection: Early second round to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 57-525-9.2-5 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Doucet sat out five games in 2007 with a groin pull and has missed virtually all the pre-draft events due to a lingering lower-body injury. He's had hamstring issues dating back to high school. Doucet doesn't possess blazing speed, but is quick enough to consistently get open. He is also considered a fundamentally sound blocker and learned to run all the routes at LSU. However, Doucet is coming off an injury plagued year and is still hurt. He also didn't display the same kind of explosiveness when healthy in 2007 that he did as a third receiver alongside Dwayne Bowe and Craig Davis.

Verdict: It's clear that Doucet isn't going to be a No. 1 receiver in the NFL, but he has the makings of an outstanding slot man and average to above average possession No. 2 threat that can help out on returns in a pinch. He's a big name, played at an elite university, and is a bit overrated, but Doucet should have a long, respectable career in the league.

[SIZE=+1]10. Andre Caldwell, Florida[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'1/209
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.37 forty, 10.04' broad jump, 4.11 short shuttle
Comparison: Bryant Johnson
Draft Projection: Mid-second round to mid-third round
2007 Statistics: 56-761-13.6-7 Tds, 12-58-4.8-Td

Positives/Negatives: While smaller, Caldwell is ripped like Terrell Owens. He's had the best offseason of any draft-eligible receiver, from torching Boston College CB DeJuan Tribble during Senior Week practices to testing very well at the Combine. Caldwell missed two games as a senior with a sprained MCL and broke his leg in 2005, leading to a medical redshirt. Durability is certainly a concern. But Caldwell is considered a superb blocker and fine route runner. He has an impressive blend of quickness and speed. He is also sure handed and an aggressive player in all areas. Still, Caldwell's physical skills aren't apparent in his college production.

Verdict: Among this year's receivers, Caldwell appears to have the best chance of being a better pro than he was a collegiate. In terms of tools, he's a borderline first-round prospect and light years ahead of his brother Reche, a former second-round pick. Because of his injury-marred past, drafting Caldwell any higher than the third round will be a risk. But if he can put his ailments behind him, there's reason to believe Caldwell can be a No. 2 and borderline No. 1 receiver in time.

[SIZE=+1]11. Lavelle Hawkins, California[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]12. Eddie Royal, Virginia Tech[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]13. Keenan Burton, Kentucky[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]14. Harry Douglas, Louisville[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]15. D.J. Hall, Alabama[/SIZE]

Other WRs with a Good Shot to be Drafted: Adarius Bowman (Oklahoma State), Adrian Arrington (Michigan), Mario Urrutia (Louisville), [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4723"]Dexter Jackson[/URL] (Appalachian State), Kenneth Moore (Wake Forest), Donnie Avery (Houston), Will Franklin (Missouri), Pierre Garcon (Mount Union), Jerome Simpson (Coastal Carolina), Dorien Bryant and Selwyn Lymon (Purdue), Paul Hubbard (Wisconsin), Steve Johnson (Kentucky), Arman Shields (Richmond), Josh Morgan (Virginia Tech), Marcus Monk (Arkansas), Darius Reynaud (West Virginia), Ryan Grice-Mullen (Hawaii), Maurice Purify (Nebraska), Daniel Amendola (Texas Tech), Jamar Johnson (Jackson State)

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Dynasty Ranks: QBs and RBs

[SIZE=+2]QUARTERBACKS[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]TIER ONE[/SIZE]

1. Peyton Manning IND 32 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1493">- With Clark re-signed and Gonzalez ready to step up if Marvin doesn't snap back, Manning's consistency trumps Brady's career year indianapoliscolts.com
2. Tom Brady NE 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1163">- Remains the NFL's best QB; Moss' return guarantees another great season, but Brady is not going to hit 50 TDs again
3. Ben Roethlisberger PIT 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1181">- Easily the third best QB in the NFL and may bypass one of the Big Two in the next couple of years
4. Carson Palmer <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2550">CIN 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2550">- Can he bounce all the way back from an extremely disappointing season? [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] is going nowhere, and [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] will be available for a full season . . . if he stays out of jail
5. Tony Romo <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2730">DAL 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2730">- Will move up if Dallas brings in a talented WR; two straight disappointing playoff performances and an over-reliance on T.O. leave room for doubt about level of future dominance
6. Drew Brees <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=591">NO 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=591">- Should be good for a consistent 4,000 yards and 25-30 TDs every year for the next few years, but what's with the Saints re-signing their own dreck at WR & TE the past couple of weeks?

[SIZE=+1]TIER TWO[/SIZE]

7. Donovan McNabb <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=704">PHI 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=704">- QBs like Eli Manning and Phil Rivers have been ranked ahead of him, in which case McNabb is the ideal buy low candidate for dynasty leaguers
8. Jay Cutler <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3608">DEN 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3608">- Impressive yards per attempt and completion numbers bode very well for future; would have liked to have seen a better acquisition than Keary Colbert, but Scheffler and Marshall form a very nice duo
9. Marc Bulger <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=369">STL 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=369">- Al Saunders and an improved offensive line could bring production back in line with career norms, but don't expect many TDs
10. Matt Hasselbeck <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=519">SEA 33 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=519">- Who is he going to be throwing to this year? With the Seahawks making an effort to upgrade the running game, he can't count on abnormally high passing attempt numbers again

[SIZE=+1]TIER THREE
[/SIZE]
11. Derek Anderson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3233">CLE 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3233">- A window to make his mark as the Browns' franchise QB with the addition of Stallworth as a #3 weapon behind Edwards and Winslow; slightly worrisome word out of the Columbus Dispatch is that Anderson's 2009 bonus could essentially make his new contract a one-year deal if he doesn't play up to expectations clevelandbrowns.com
12. Vince Young <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3602">TEN 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3602">- Deserved a better fate last season after seeing a freakish number of TDs called back due to penalty, drops by a lousy receiving crew, or poor route running/miscommunication. Still has plenty of upside and the possibility of a true break-out season if the light flips on with improved weaponry tennesseetitans.com
13. Matt Schaub <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=16">HOU 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=16">- He's going to have to stay healthy for all 16 games to shake the injury concerns, but there's a lot to like here. The yards per attempt and completion percentage were very promising, so he just needs to find Johnson and Daniels in the end zone more often to take the next step to reliable #1 as opposed to an aspiring Bulger
14. David Garrard <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1483">JAX 30 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1483">- A much better QB than commonly believed, but he's not likely to surpass last year's passing quality. If the running game slips from true dominance, does Garrard's production see an uptick from the increased attempts or do the passing lanes start to close with the defense no longer selling out against the run? jacksonvillejaguars.com
15. Eli Manning NYG 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1657">- The 64,000 Question: Did the epiphany occur in the last six weeks, or was it simply the flip-side of an inconsistent QB hitting a hot streak? I believe the latter, and I can't see how even a true believer can feel comfortable relying on a streaky, inconsistent Eli as a QB1 going forward NY Giants
16. Matt Leinart <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3138">ARI 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3138">- High risk, high reward; after Warner's performance, there's going to be pressure to perform well right from the start. But if he does, he could easily see a 25 TD, 3700 yard season arizonacardinals.com
17. Philip Rivers SD 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1813">- Good news and bad news: The good news is that Rivers finally delivered consistently under pressure once the playoffs started. The bad news is that he showed flashes of David Carr happy feet and lack of arm strength during the season. Even worse, the ACL injury he suffered happened later in the season than Daunte Culpepper's, Carson Palmer's, and Donovan McNabb's . . . all of whom were much better QBs and struggled considerably in their first season back from injury. Why would we expect Rivers to do anything but disappoint in '08? sandiegochargers.com

[SIZE=+1]TIER FOUR[/SIZE]

18. Aaron Rodgers <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3118">GB 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3118">- Legit concern that he's been injury-prone in limited duty, but the pieces are already in place for him to succeed; just as importantly, he has both his coach and his GM glowing about his vast improvement over the past year greenbaypackers.com
19. Brady Quinn CLE 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4149">- Derek Anderson's $5M bonus before next season basically makes the 2-QB system a one year experiment. Quinn could definitely exploit an opening if Anderson doesn't show himself to be the Browns franchise QB in '08. The future is uncertain, but one of the two Browns QBs is likely to be starting elsewhere next season
20. Jason Campbell WAS 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3137">- It would be foolish not to count on an adjustment period to the West Coast Offense and a new coaching staff; we've all seen him look very poised at times and extremely underwhelming at other times, so it will be interesting to watch his growth throughout '08. Remember the Losman/Grossman Effect: young QBs don't always get better washingtonredskins.com
22. JaMarcus Russell <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4154">OAK 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4154">- Top of the line arm, perfect size, prodigious talent, but the footwork was an absolute mess and questions persist about his decision making; his career could go either way, and unfortunately, Oakland isn't exactly the ideal proving ground for a developing QB right now oaklandraiders.com
23. Jake Delhomme <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2398">CAR 33 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2398">- Would make for the ideal throw-in on a larger deal if you believe he'll fully recover from Tommy John surgery; job security issues damage his long-term dynasty value, but he could recoup quite a bit of value in '08 with a more explosive offense featuring the always special [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] plus the move to DeAngelo Williams at RB, and the additions of D.J. Hackett and Muhsin Muhammad carolinapanthers.com
24. Trent Edwards <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4220">BUF 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4220">- Positive marks for poise, smarts, and an ability to lead an offense, but he needs to take a major step forward in playmaking and consistency; an upgrade in weapons would be nice as new OC Schonert plans to open up the passing game buffalobills.com
25. Drew Stanton <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4179">DET 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4179">- Jon Kitna will be on a much shorter leash, so expect Stanton to get a chance at some point in '08; if Calvin Johnson and [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL] remain in Detroit, Stanton makes for a very intriguing high upside pet project detroitlions.com
26. Kellen Clemens <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3688">NYJ 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3688">- Jets have nicely revamped a previously problematic offensive line and may be the favorites to land Darren McFadden. With an O-Line and a friendly running game, Clemens will be better able to get the ball to Coles and Cotchery. newyorkjets.com

[SIZE=+1]TIER FIVE[/SIZE]

27. Kevin Kolb <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4151">PHI 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4151">- The new Matt Schaub? The new Aaron Rodgers? Either way, his value likely depends substantially on your league's roster size. He's a very nice stash as long as you realize he's a roster ornament for at least another year. Hope for one of the following: in-season injury to McNabb, a post-2008 McNabb trade, or Kolb becomes the new Schaub-like savior for a QB-desperate franchise
28. Shaun Hill <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1216">SF 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1216">- More of a game-manager type than Martz' previous QBs, but he does offer athleticism, a quick release, and the ability to lead an offense. There's some upside here, and if he beats out [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=3147"]Alex Smith[/URL] for the starting job, the whole 49er offense should receive a boost in value
29. Tarvaris Jackson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3708">MIN 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3708">- If-big IF-Tarvaris can put it together, Berrian and a more experienced Sidney Rice offer some intriguing potential. I just can't get over the fact that he's the exact opposite of what the current Vikings franchise needs in a QB minnesotavikings.com
30. Jon Kitna <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=28">DET 36 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=28">- Still has a window on '08 value with playmakers Calvin Johnson and [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL], but his margin for error is razor-thin with Stanton waiting in the wings . . . and Kitna is never a strong bet to defeat his margin of error
31. Kurt Warner <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1256">ARI 37 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1256">- Simply put, he needs Leinart to fall on his face in the pre-season. Warner threw up valuable fantasy numbers the last 12 games of '07 and can do it again if given the opportunity
32. Daunte Culpepper <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1227">UFA 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1227">- The opportunity isn't likely to be forthcoming (nor should it be), but Culpepper makes for a nice high-upside, albeit long shot, stash. Better to carry a long shot with high upside than a player you will never use even if he does get an opportunity to play

[SIZE=+1]TIER SIX[/SIZE]

33. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=3147"]Alex Smith[/URL] <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3119">SF 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3119">- Two of his three NFL seasons have produced historically bad performances. I don't think he beats Shaun Hill in a fair competition, but the 49ers have a lot invested here
34. John Beck <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4219">MIA 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4219">- Thoroughly unimpressive in a four game rookie trial. It remains to be seen if he'll be given the reigns to start in '08, but either way there's not going to be much of a grace period miamidolphins.com
35. J.P. Losman <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2780">BUF 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2780">- It's getting awfully late in the game for Losman to find a starting opportunity via trade. His best bet for value would be with Chiefs, Falcons, Vikings, or Ravens
36. Jeff Garcia <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2570">TB 38.5 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2570">- He's a better NFL than fantasy QB at this stage of his career and a poor bet at age 38 to stay as healthy and productive as last season Tampabaybuccaneers.com
37. Chad Pennington <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=858">NYJ <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=858">32 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=858">- Due a hefty bonus and salary this season, the onus is on the Jets to find a taker. It's simply not practical to have a backup QB making that kind of scratch; the Vikings would be a perfect match
38. Byron Leftwich <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1478">UFA <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1478">28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1478">- I still say he can help several teams around the league as a starting QB. For all of the talk about the long windup, he's long been a low turnover QB without a sack problem
39. Sage Rosenfels <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1276">HOU 30 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1276">- The Practically Perfect Backup QB could pick up some value if traded to the Vikes, but will certainly drop a tier if he remains in Houston
40. Luke McCown <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=13">TB 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=13">- The better of the Passing McCown Brothers has flashed some interesting ability in small doses. Would have to beat out Griese to get on the field this season, but this McCown could conceivably have a future as a starter down the road
41.Troy Smith <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4166">BAL 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4166">- Not ready yet to help an offense put up consistent points, but he has shown impressive field general abilities. Still raw, but may get a shot down the road baltimoreravens.com
42. Kyle Orton <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3214">CHI 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3214">- Plucky. That's it. That's the list. OK, neckbeard. That's on the list too. Woe are the Bears
43. Rex Grossman <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2450">CHI 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2450">- Come on. He's simply odious. Before last season, I called him a "turnover prone, inconsistent, inaccurate headcase." I was feeling nice that day
44. Brodie Croyle <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3619">KC 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3619">- If Grossman is odious, then Croyle is, of course, appallingly bad. The Chiefs are seriously deluded if he starts week one kansascitychiefs.com

[SIZE=+1]TIER SEVEN[/SIZE]
45. Steve McNair <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=232">BAL 35 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=232">- The early favorite to start in Baltimore, but it's going to be tough for even the bionic man to throw with a fork sticking out of his back
46. Chris Redman <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2241">ATL <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2241">31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2241">- Last man standing could be a band-aid for a year, but I don't think the Falcons are done shopping quite yet
47. Quinn Gray <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1475">UFA <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1475">29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1475">- Another long release guy, this one comes with major accuracy and consistency issues but possesses all the physical tools; could end up in Green Bay as Rodgers' backup
48. Seneca Wallace <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=503">SEA 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=503">- Could put up interesting fantasy numbers if ever given a shot at regular playing time
49. Damon Huard <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2149">KC 35 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2149">- He's no great shakes, but he's a hell of a lot better than Brodie Croyle; with the Chiefs far from contending mode, Huard is stuck in no man's land
50. Matt Moore <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4535">CAR 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4535">- Looked decent in late season action . . . certainly better than any Carolina backups of the past two seasons
51. Brian Griese TB <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=263">33 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=263">- Will battle Luke McCown to see who starts once Garcia gets injured
52. *Michael Vick <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2107">ATL <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2107">28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2107">- How large is your roster?
53. Billy Volek SD <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=231">32 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=231">- Fantasy leaguers keep insisting that he must be passing up better opportunities elsewhere; but what are the chances NFL GMs are as fond of his game as fantasy owners are?
54. Trent Green <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1350">STL <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1350">38 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1350">- Decent shot at Kurt Warner-like startable value if Bulger goes down, but keep in mind any value would be of the fleeting variety
55. Kyle Boller <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2256">BAL 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2256">- Has failed and failed again to generate offense. Poor man's Rex Grossman lacks the headcase nature but also the playmaking ability


<!--RW-->[SIZE=+2]RUNNING BACKS[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]TIER ONE[/SIZE]

1. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4169">MIN 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4169">- Simply the most talented player on the field
minnesotavikings.com
2. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1663"]Steven Jackson[/URL] <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1663">STL 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1663">- Rams and new offensive coordinator Al Saunders are committed to building the offense around the multi-dimensional S-Jax
3. LaDainian Tomlinson<HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=561"> SD 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=561">- Have we seen the last of the truly dominant LT2? He may bounce back with a vengeance after all the flack he took for the Pats game, but it's tough to rank him higher at the crucial RB age of 29 sandiegochargers.com
4. Brian Westbrook <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=716">PHI 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=716">- Money in PPR leagues and still underrated, but injuries are a constant concern; is this off-season the time to flip him for a younger talent before it's too late?
5. Frank Gore <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3205">SF 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3205">- Talented, well-rounded, great job security, and in line to haul in a ton of receptions in Martz' offense which saw Marshall Faulk take his game to the next level
6. Joseph Addai <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3646">IND 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3646">- Safe call in the Colts offense, but is 300 touches per year his limit? indianapoliscolts.com
7. Maurice Jones-Drew <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3596">JAX 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3596">- One of the best players in the NFL and averages a TD per game even in limited touches; his time for Westbrook-like domination is coming like a freight train
8. Marshawn Lynch <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4186">BUF 22 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4186">- Should see his role expand on the heels of an impressive rookie season buffalobills.com

[SIZE=+1]TIER TWO[/SIZE]

9. Marion Barber III <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3215">DAL <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3215">25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3215">- He and Ronnie Brown have consistently given me the most trouble since I've started these rankings, and this offseason is no different. Barber's distinct strengths (runs hard, scores often, well-rounded) and weaknesses (runs too hard, likely to wear down with major increase in carries, could lead to short career, Cowboys likely to add a talented counterpart) make for a complex value judgment for dynasty leaguers
10. Clinton Portis <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=94">WAS 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=94"></I>- Something is askew here: his owners are constantly trying to deal him, but they also consider him an elite back. The problem is he's not quite the ideal RB1 that dynasty leaguers want to rely on, but it's increasingly difficult to trade him for an upgrade
11. Reggie Bush NO 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3600">- We have to accept the fact that he's not the dynamic homerun hitter he was hyped to be, but he's still gold in PPR leagues and was used at the goal-line while Deuce was injured
12. Larry Johnson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1315">KC 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1315">- With the dwindling yards per carry, the 400+ carry season of '06, the foot injury, the perdition of what was once possibly the best O-Line in NFL history, and now a punchless Croyle-led offense, L.J. simply has too much going against him to return to '05-'06 form. Those days are gone WEBSITE.WS - Your Internet Address For Life?
13. Ronnie Brown <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3155">MIA 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3155">- Here's the crux of the problem: even with the advances of modern medical technology, no RB in history has returned as the same back immediately after ACL surgery. If Brown won't be truly himself again until '09, what's his dynasty value? Can he be counted on as a fantasy starter at all in '08? The answer to that last question is going to count for a lot in determining his value miamidolphins.com
14. Willis McGahee <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2265">BAL 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2265">- High marks in job security and consistent production, but the Ravens offense inspires so little faith
15. Ryan Grant <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3252">GB 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3252">- The Packers love his game, so there's no worry about job security any time soon; how will Favre's exit affect the value of the running game?
16. Laurence Maroney <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3642">NE 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3642">- It will be interesting to see if the Pats trust Maroney in short yardage after his success there late in the season; Maroney is a talented back in a great offense, but there are still legit concerns about his usage patterns in that offense

[SIZE=+1]TIER THREE[/SIZE]

17. Willie Parker <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2957">PIT 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2957">- When you lose goal-line carries and third-down work, you lose a hefty portion of your fantasy value; I like FWP, but I've always sensed that the Steelers don't trust him to be a true workhorse
18. DeAngelo Williams <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3611">CAR 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3611">- Not likely to get regular goal-line work regardless, but if Carolina stays with Toefield as his timeshare partner, Williams gets another spike in value. If they draft a talented back, the questions will linger
19. Jamal Lewis <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=7">CLE <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=7">29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=7">- Too many dynasty owners are writing off a talented back playing very well with fresh legs; there aren't too many RBs around the league with this much job security and a guaranteed prominent role in a highly productive offense. Frankly, I probably have him too low as opposed to too high
20. Michael Turner <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2641">ATL <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2641">26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2641">- Will be the Thunder to Norwood's Lightning in ATL, meaning Turner will get the early down and short-yardage work but will likely lose some value in the passing game. Will he find the end zone enough to make up for Norwood's production drain? atlantafalcons.com
21. Brandon Jacobs <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3146">NYG 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3146">- He will always face questions about staying healthy and being a bit of a novelty act, and now he has to contend with an Ahmad Bradshaw problem NY Giants

[SIZE=+1]TIER FOUR
[/SIZE]
22. Earnest Graham <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3042">TB 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3042">- Most of his value is going to be tied up in the 2008 season with the Bucs showing a definite interest in finding another reliable RB by hook or by crook; he can help you win now, but there's just not enough long-range value here
23. Julius Jones <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2651">SEA 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2651">- New starting RB for the Seahawks could regain quite a bit of value; now let's see what they do in the draft
24. LenDale White TEN 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3637">- In addition to the dedication, weight, and maturity issues, BakeSale has picked up a couple more: (1) He's useless if the Titans are playing from behind and (2) The Titans are going to be continually on the lookout for a quality RB to pair with him and siphon production
25. Pierre Thomas <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4503">NO 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4503">- Like Willie Parker a couple of years ago, Thomas could capitalize on a huge Week 17 game to carve out a prominent role in his team's offense especially if Deuce's microfracture right knee and ACL left knee hold him back
26. Justin Fargas OAK 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=786">- What are the chances he stays healthy and holds off all of the competition for his job throughout the whole season? Sell (relatively) high if it's not too late
27. Ahmad Bradshaw <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4305">NYG 22 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4305">- I was eyeballing his game for weaknesses throughout the playoffs, but I didn't find any glaring ones; he may not be able to carry a full load, but the question is moot with Jacobs in front of him

[SIZE=+1]TIER FIVE
[/SIZE]
28. Michael Bush <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4156">OAK 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4156">- Now that he's healthy, can he stay healthy? If so, he has a better chance to eat into Fargas' work than Rhodes or Jordan do; is he more of a time-share back or a guy who can carry the load in the future?
29. Thomas Jones <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2408">NYJ 30 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2408">- With the Jets' revamped O-Line, he could move up a bit as long as the Jets don't draft a RB in the first couple of rounds; unfortunately, many suspect the Jets are the likely McFadden landing spot
30. Edgerrin James ARI <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1541">30 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1541">- His goal-line and passing game production have already been taken away, and the Cardinals are now looking for his successor in the draft; still a possibility of being cut this spring/summer
31. Travis Henry <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2271">DEN <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2271">29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2271"></I>- The definition of ethereal value; if stability is London, then Henry is Tokyo
32. Rudi Johnson CIN <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=50">28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=50">- He looks like he's running on dead legs, but there's some chance his poor production was more the result of the hamstring injury than being washed up. Either way, he's reached the point where he could lose his job at a moment's notice . . . if he hasn't already
33. Selvin Young <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4298">DEN 24.9 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4298">- Talented, explosive, and well-liked by his head coach, but he's never going to dominate the carries

[SIZE=+1]TIER SIX
[/SIZE]
34. Jerious Norwood ATL 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3645">- As expected, Norwood won't be given an opportunity to shoulder the load in ATL; how valuable can he be with limited touches?
35. Chester Taylor <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2204">MIN 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2204">- As valuable of a pure backup as any RB in the league, Taylor is still most valuable to [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] owners; won't be a free agent until after the '09 season when he'll be almost 31-years-old
36. Kevin Jones <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2659"><HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2659">UFA 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2659">- Won't be back by week one, will be less than 100% when he does play, will be injured quickly as soon as he does come back, and will likely be splitting carries wherever he winds up. What's the fantasy football equivalent of a "face for radio" or a "face only a mother could love"? A running back only an intractably twitterpated owner could love
37. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1312"]Ricky Williams[/URL] <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1312">MIA 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1312">- Could be a good story here if Brown is slow to return to last year's form; after a couple of seasons away from football, Ricky should have fresh legs and is one of the few backups who can carry a full load if needed
38. Kenny Irons <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4225">CIN 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4225">- There's definitely a window of opportunity in Cincinnati's backfield right now, but it's going to tough for Irons to exploit it at less than 100% in the year following ACL surgery
39. Tatum Bell DET 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2665">- Currently the starting RB in Detroit, but that's likely to change before long
40. Cedric Benson CHI 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3139">- Injury prone, headcase RB lacking in explosiveness and receiving ability just lost a step he couldn't afford to lose and now likely to be splitting carries at best. Where do I sign up?
41. Fred Taylor <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1477">JAX 32 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1477">- Has as much value as a 32-year-old, part-timer without goal-line and passing game opportunities can possibly have
42. Ahman Green <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1811">HOU 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1811">- Mistakenly regarded as washed up when he should more accurately be portrayed as a RB who can still play and play well but can't stay healthy under a full workload at this stage of his career
43. Chris Brown <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=199">HOU <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=199">27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=199">- Picked a good situation with Texans' zone blocking scheme and no dominant RB in front of him, but Brown just can't be relied on as more than a committee back

[SIZE=+1]TIER SEVEN
[/SIZE]
44. Ladell Betts WAS 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=138">- Now more of an insurance for Portis as opposed to a backfield complement; startable in the event of a Portis injury but valueless in the meantime
45. Derrick Ward NYG 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2925">- Looks like his injury history scared off potential suitors, so he re-signed with the Giants dampening his value in the process
46. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] TEN 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4226">- Titans are continually on the lookout for a backfield upgrade, but Henry is the choice for third down work and White right now
47. LaMont Jordan OAK 29.8 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=883">- Just release him already! He turns 30 this season and the chronic back problems leave him as nothing more than a backup option, but he has a chance to be startable for a few games at a time if he gets the opportunity
48.Cadillac Williams <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3133">TB 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3133">- We've heard everything from "career's over" to "suiting up by week one." The most likely scenario is that he'll start the season on the PUP list and will be a shadow of his former self once he does return . . . and truth be told his former self wasn't all that hot to begin with
49. Leon Washington <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3739">NYJ 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3739">- A homerun hitter, but just not physical enough to ever be more than a part-timer; his only hope for value is to catch enough passes to be useful in PPR leagues

[SIZE=+1]TIER EIGHT[/SIZE]

50. Deuce McAllister <HTTP: fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages Content player_previousnews.asp?sport="NFL&id=1014">NO 29 <HTTP: fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages Content player_previousnews.asp?sport="NFL&id=1014">- Wait, ACL surgery on his left knee and microfracture surgery on his formerly reconstructed right knee? Now that's a horse of a different color for a 30-year-old RB. Why weren't we informed of this microfracture surgery? I can't envision a scenario where Deuce is not washed up at this point
51. Shaun Alexander <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=555">SEA <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=555">31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=555">- Just a matter of time before he's cut by Seattle; could end up in the mix for his hometown Bengals. His days as a workhorse are long gone, and he's going to struggle to ever maintain fantasy relevance again
52. Sammy Morris <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1284">NE 31 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1284">- Was a good fit in New England's offense, but Maroney stepped up when Morris was out with his sternum/clavicle injury; will he keep the short-yardage/goal-line work? Always a chance for an increased role with the whims of Belichick
53. Chris Perry <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2637">CIN 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2637">- As brittle as brittle can be, and likely lost more than a step by now, but there's a window of opportunity in Cincy's backfield
54. Kenny Watson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2515">CIN 30 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2515">- Too pedestrian to grab hold of the starting RB job and run with it, but a repeat of his effective '07 season is possible if no other RB steps up for the Bengals
55. Brandon Jackson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4234">GB 22 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4234">- Jackson owners who drafted him with a high rookie pick want to believe he could eventually win the job from Grant, but it's just not going to happen. Jackson is buried behind Grant, and he'll be lucky to get regular 3rd down duty
56. Lorenzo Booker <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4194">MIA 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4194">- Only hope for value is as a flex player in PPR leagues. Can he catch enough passes to make himself relevant?
57. Musa Smith <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2189">UFA 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2189">- Not without talent, but too unreliable due to injury history; would have to land in the ideal situation to merit a look beyond a stash option
58. Najeh Davenport <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1778">PIT 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1778">- Likely to keep goal-line/short yardage duties as Parker's complement, but Moore could take over on third downs; has startable value if Parker goes down with an injury again
59. Mewelde Moore PIT <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=77">26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=77">- A weapon in the passing game and likely to take over punt-return duties; has a track record of impressive performance in small doses but gets nicked up too easily <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=77">
60. Dominic Rhodes <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1494">OAK 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1494">- Strictly a backup to Fargas and could find himself behind Bush by the time the season starts
61. Kenton Keith <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4491">IND 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4491">- Would have some nice value as a sidekick to Addai if the Colts weren't looking to upgrade at RB in this year's draft
62. Darren Sproles <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3221">SD 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3221">- Explosive. Could find fantasy value as a receiving weapon out of the backfield if the Chargers made it a point to get the ball to him, but his slight build and the presence of LT2 will ultimately keep him from handling the ball enough to make a sizable fantasy impact
63. Kolby Smith <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4262">KC 23 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4262">- Was decent in a five-game trial at the end of the season, but he's limited to backup duty going forward
64. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2491">CHI 29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2491">- Right now he's the most effective RB in Chicago, but will likely go back to his former role when new talent is added in the draft
65. DeShaun Foster <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2368">SF 28 - Signed a meager contract to head West as Frank Gore's backup; don't look for a heavy role in the offense unless Gore gets injured

[SIZE=+1]TIER NINE[/SIZE]

66. Andre Hall <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3613">DEN 26 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3613">- Any RB in DEN could get a shot, but he's definitely third on the depth chart even before April's draft; didn't ingratiate himself to his coach by getting arrested last month
67. Antonio Pittman <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4170">STL 22 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4170">- More of a pure backup than Brian Leonard at this point
68. Tony Hunt <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4177">PHI 22 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4177">- Could become the short-yardage back in Philly, but not likely to ever be more than one half of a time share backfield
69. J.J. Arrington <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3125">ARI 25 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3125">- Appears the Cardinals don't see him as anything more than a third down back
70. Fred Jackson <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4506">BUF 27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4506">- Coaching staff is high on him, but he's more of a change of pace/backup as opposed to a guy with an opportunity
71. DeShawn Wynn <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4286">GB 24 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4286">- Green Bay sees him as more of a pure backup than Jackson, but Wynn's injuries have put him solidly on the bench behind Ryan Grant
72. Chris Taylor <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4044">HOU 24.8 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=4044">- Long shot, but the coaching staff seems high on him
73. Vernand Morency <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3208">GB 28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=3208">- Ceiling is third down back
74. T.J. Duckett <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2124">SEA <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2124">27 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2124">- Same old Duckett, should take over the short-yardage in Seattle
75. LaBrandon Toefield <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1480">CAR <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1480">28 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=1480">- Could be D-Willy's short-yardage legs in Carolina if they don't grab a high round RB in the draft
76. Jesse Chatman <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=632">NYJ <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=632">29 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=632">- Thomas Jones insurance
77. Warrick Dunn <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2117">TB <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2117">33 <HTTP: content fantasyfootball.usatoday.com playerpages player_main.asp?sport="NFL&id=2117">- Ill-suited to third down work at this point in his career, but that's where he's going to play

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Dynasty Ranks: Wide Receivers

One of the keys to dynasty league success is identifying stars before they explode on the scene. Your challenge is to draft them or trade for them before they become untouchable. That's a tired old chestnut, but try roasting it like this: In a complex position often requiring a lengthy learning curve, try letting another owner develop your wide receivers for you. Attempting to rank receivers coming out of college is far too inaccurate of a science to invest your precious resources in their enigmatic development.

An elite young wide receiver, on the other hand, is worth his weight in gold because he can produce Top-10 numbers consistently whereas the turnover among the tier two and tier three wide receivers is staggering. The tundra is littered with early round receiving prospects who never made the leap to impact fantasy starter. Wait a year or two to identify those with a favorable chance to become a WR1 and strike while their value is still relatively low. If you do your homework, you should trust your gut instinct and have faith in your own analysis.

[SIZE=+1]TIER ONE[/SIZE]

1. Randy Moss NE 31 - Staying in New England stabilizes both his and Brady's value.
2. Larry Fitzgerald ARI 25 - Young, ultra-talented, reliably consistent, and a target monster as well as red zone stud; ideal nucleus player. arizonacardinals.com
3. Andre Johnson HOU 27 - The elite talent was always there, and now he has a QB who can get him the ball; only minor negative is history of unreliability at times.
4. Reggie Wayne IND 29 - Being Peyton Manning's #1 target is the perfect recipe for long-term value; high marks for consistency going forward. indianapoliscolts.com
5. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] CAR 29 - Personally, I'd take Smith ahead of Wayne and Johnson, but I'm a gambler. Smith would be fighting for the top spot on this list if not for short- & long-term QB issues. carolinapanthers.com
6. Braylon Edwards CLE 25 - I'm expecting consistent TD numbers, but the targets and yardage may be slightly less than the guys ahead of him. clevelandbrowns.com
7. Marques Colston NO 25 - Seems to disappear for a 2-3 game stretch, but you can't argue with the success to start his career. Figures to stay consistently productive as long as Brees stays healthy.

[SIZE=+1]TIER TWO[/SIZE]

8. Brandon Marshall DEN 24.5 - Target monster is due for an increase in TDs in '08; there's a hint of high knucklehead potential here.
9. Calvin Johnson DET 23.0 - I'm always willing to stick my neck out for dominant talent, and Calvin Johnson remains the most dominant WR talent to enter the league since Randy Moss; buy low. detroitlions.com
10. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] CIN 30 - Highly consistent seasonal numbers but schizophrenic game-to-game numbers. Would be higher if not for his more severe than usual shenanigans this off-season; becoming very high risk.
11. Terrell Owens DAL 34 - Worth more to an annual contender than he is to a rebuilder; a true difference maker at a position where there aren't many, T.O. still gives you a weekly advantage over most of the owners in your league.
12. Torry Holt STL 32 - After an impressive display with a bum knee in a sunk offense in '07, expect Holt to bounce back with another Tier 1 performance in '08. Age & gimpy knee keeping his value down just a tad.
13. Anquan Boldin ARI 27 - The difference between Tier 1 and Tier 2 is weekly reliability, and Boldin hasn't been reliable for a couple of seasons now. The talent is top-notch, but the assurance is waning.
14. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL] DET 26 - Another ultra-talented WR who has shown flashes but hasn't been able to consistently produce like the elites; free agent after '08 season likely to be tagged by the Lions . . . unfortunately.

[SIZE=+1]TIER THREE[/SIZE]

15. Plaxico Burress NYG 31 - Years ago, Plax inspired me to create the phrase "high knucklehead factor" for a player who is under-motivated, prone to mental vacations and off the field imbroglios, and always a risk for a sudden reduction in value. If he produced like Randy Moss, I could easily see past it. NY Giants
16. Dwayne Bowe KC 24 - Value is highly dependent on the Croyle situation this season; another elite physical talent at WR who should produce as both a playmaker and a possession WR. kansascitychiefs.com
17. T.J. Houshmandzadeh CIN 30 - Clearly the #2 WR in the Bengals offense, Housh has produced like a #1 for two years, but he's an ideal sell high this off-season due to his lack of staying power.
18. Lee Evans BUF 27 - Has Tier 1 talent but the Bills offense, especially the QB play, has held him back. Evans can be both a possession WR and a huge big play threat down the field. He has the whole package if his QB can get him the ball. buffalobills.com
19. Santonio Holmes PIT 24 - Outstanding playmaker who excels at taking a short-to-middle pass to the house; not yet the go-to WR in his own offense, and I'm slightly concerned that he's not physical enough to be a high reception WR.
20. Greg Jennings GB 25 - Was the '07 TD total an aberration, or can we expect Jennings to overcome his low target numbers to produce like a star even with Rodgers taking over for Favre? greenbaypackers.com
21. Wes Welker NE 27 - The Stokley and Furrey comparisons are ludicrous. Welker's role in the Pats' offense is too significant to expect a steep drop-off though the whole passing attack is likely to take at least a small step back in '08.
22. Santana Moss WAS 29 - Went from over-rated to under-rated in one season. His inconsistency from game-to-game and year-to-year will always keep him out of the top tier, but he's too talented to be passed up by flavors of the day. washingtonredskins.com
23. Jerricho Cotchery NYJ 26 - Concerns: doesn't get in the end zone, has to fight Coles for top billing, and his QB has problems getting the ball too him consistently. On the flip side, he can makes some plays when given the opportunity. newyorkjets.com
24. Hines Ward PIT 32 - Off-season surgery should help him regain a step or two after playing through tears of his MCL, PCL, and right meniscus last season; as exhibited in the playoff game against JAX, he's still Big Ben's most reliable WR as well as a prime red zone weapon.

[SIZE=+1]TIER FOUR[/SIZE]

25. Anthony Gonzalez IND 24 - It's so tough to rank Colts offensive players on talent because the Peyton Manning factor skews the results. There's no reason Gonzalez can't produce like a starter as long as he plays like a starter---no sure thing with Marvin possibly bouncing back this season.
26. Roddy White ATL 26 - Prime sell-high. White did produce under all 3 woeful QBs in '07, but the Falcons had to pass a ton because their running game was so dreadful. With Mularkey's power running game and Michael Turner in town, and further poor quarterbacking, the passing numbers will suffer in '08. atlantafalcons.com
27. #Marvin Harrison IND 36 - "Mama always told me not to look into the eyes of the sun, but Mama, that's where the fun is." High risk, high reward. How lucky do you feel? I think Marvin could easily have another difference-making season left in him, but I'm not willing to invest heavily to find out at age 36. indianapoliscolts.com
28. Chris Chambers SD 30 - I've yet to see a convincing argument for Catch % as a tell-all metric, but that didn't stop the stats guys from hammering Chambers for years. He's still a very good talent, one of the better red zone receivers, and his current QB is a considerably better passer than any QB he ever had in Miami. sandiegochargers.com
29. Sidney Rice MIN 22 - The talent is obvious. Rice should be a playmaker and a TD scorer in a normal offense, but the Vikes are far from a normal offense; pray for a QB trade. WEBSITE.WS - Your Internet Address For Life?
30. Laveranues Coles NYJ 30 - With the explosion gone and his failure to ever exceed 7 TDs in a season, he looks like a poor man's Hines Ward to me.
31. Bernard Berrian MIN 27 - Grossman was a horrible QB, but at least he had eyes for Berrian. Changing teams is rarely friendly to non-elite WRs, and Berrian is headed to one quarterbacked by Tarvaris Jackson.
32. Vincent Jackson SD 25 - Did Vincent Jackson make the leap in the playoffs, or was it simply the result of increased opportunity with Gates so gimpy? He can be a red zone weapon, but there are only so many balls to go around in San Diego.
33. Donald Driver GB 33 - It doesn't pay to be Favre's go-to guy when Favre is no longer around; heading into his mid-thirties, Driver may be entering his last startable season.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]TIER FIVE[/SIZE]

34. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=378"]Kevin Curtis[/URL] PHI 30 - Explosive in doses but not reliable enough to be a weekly fantasy starter. Still, 1100 yards and 6 TDs isn't bad production for a WR3.
35. Nate Burleson SEA 27 - Plenty of opportunity in '08 with Branch injured and Hackett gone. If that translates into a marked increase in targets to go with his impressive '07 red zone production, Burleson could be a major sleeper.
36. #Javon Walker OAK 29 - Swampland in Florida, oceanfront property in Arizona---you name it, Walker is it. When your coach is openly pining for you to undergo microfracture surgery, then you might have a problematic future. oaklandraiders.com
37. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] CIN 25 - Poor man's Randy Moss. High reward, little risk since it shouldn't cost much to gamble here. With [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] a possible holdout, Henry's playmaking skills are worth a roll of the dice.
38. D.J. Hackett CAR 27 - Being [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL]'s partner isn't a good bet for steady production; would have been higher had he remained in Seattle.
39. Mark Clayton BAL 26 - Talk about a let-down season. As disappointing as Clayton's production was in '07, it's tough to muster up the faith again in '08. Seriously, zero TDs?! You better hope the string of foot, calf, and back injuries were much worse then he let on. baltimoreravens.com
40. Ted Ginn Jr. MIA 23 - No matter how fast you are, it's going to be tough for an unpolished WR to produce in that offense. All upside, no production at this point. miamidolphins.com
41. Ronald Curry OAK 29 - I want to rank him higher, but I see tough days ahead in '08 with Russell learning on the job.

[SIZE=+1]TIER SIX[/SIZE]

42. James Jones GB 24 - Favre's exit may lead the Pack to a gradual shift away from Driver and towards the younger receivers. Jones had a terrific rookie season as a 3rd WR in the Packers offense.
43. Reggie Brown PHI 27 - He just couldn't get the separation needed to become a reliable target for McNabb; may bounce back somewhat, but the lack of speed looks troublesome.
44. Jerry Porter JAX 30 - Extremely high knuckle-head factor, always an over-rated talent, and the Jags just don't pass enough. Still, it beats the Raiders offense. jacksonvillejaguars.com
45. Reggie Williams JAX 25 - Fluky TD total was the result of abnormally high blown coverage due to the Jags dominant rushing attack; he's improving every year, but he's not a good bet to surpass last year's numbers.
46. Drew Bennett STL 30 - Right now he's the #2 WR in an offense that could bounce back to put up some interesting numbers. By no means a reliable WR3, but he has a chance at regular startability in '08.
47. Donte' Stallworth CLE 27 - Has there been a bigger WR tease over the past 10 years? Stallworth always shows just enough to get his owners excited before letting them down with another season well under 1,000 yards.
48. Laurent Robinson ATL 23 - Needs to bulk up while he's stashed on your bench; it won't take much to bypass Michael Jenkins and Joe Horn, and he could end eventually end up with a Darrell Jackson type of career in right offense.
49. Robert Meachem NO 24 - Great buy-low as a '07 first rounder who redshirted last season with a bothersome knee. A good deal more talented than the WRs ahead of him on the Saints depth chart, so don't rule a fast move now that he's healthy and working with teammate David Patten to improve.
50. #Deion Branch SEA 29 - Formerly known as the captain of the all-overrated team with no seasons over 1,000 yards and never more than one 100 yard game in a season. He's still that guy, but now with an ACL injury and a half-season stay on the PUP list.
51. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] NYG 23 - Came on strong in the playoffs, but I believe his upside is still #2 WR in his team's offense.
52. Bobby Engram SEA 35 - Coming on age 36, but should be startable for at least another season as Hasselbeck's safety blanket in an offense lacking experienced receiving options.
53. Darrell Jackson SF 29 - Better find a home soon, or he'll slip all the way down to waiver wire material; it would behoove him to find the a West Coast Offense with a need at WR.
54. Demetrius Williams BAL 25 - Can he expand his game beyond deep-threat? Needs improved QB play and a larger role in the offense, neither of which should be unreasonable beyond '08.

[SIZE=+1]TIER SEVEN[/SIZE]

55. Derrick Mason BAL 34 - Can he repeat his '07 season? I just don't see him approaching last year's target numbers again.
56. Bryant Johnson SF 27 - Can he become the #1 WR in Martz' offense? I thought he'd be a nice complementary #2 for a guy like Lee Evans in Buffalo, but I'm not sold on Johnson as a major piece of the 49ers offense.
57. Antonio Bryant TB 27 - If he has his act together, Bryant could leapfrog Galloway & Co. to become the Bucs most threatening WR. That's not saying much, I know, but Bryant has been relevant in fantasy circles before, and he's still only 27. Tampabaybuccaneers.com
58. Patrick Crayton DAL 29 - Ideally, more of a 3rd WR so the Cowboys will continually look to upgrade.
59. Joey Galloway TB 36 - May still be in Gruden's doghouse for his playoff performance, and rightly so. At close to 37-years-old, the cliff is fast approaching.
60. Devin Hester CHI 25 - Intriguing stash; I still don't like his chances to ever become a fantasy factor on offense, but as long as the Bears are willing to give him a chance he's worth a roster spot.
61. Mark Bradley CHI 26 - Can he stay healthy? If so, the opportunity could be forthcoming in a talent-starved offense.
62. Jacoby Jones HOU 24 - How tough can it be to beat out Kevin Walter? The recent DWI didn't help matters.
63. Matt Jones JAX 25 - Pure wildcard. One of the few players who could conceivably see his value rise if his NFL team releases him. Has the talent to make a fantasy impact on the right team.
64. Chad Jackson NE 23 - He's been an injury-prone bust, and the Pats no longer need his speed game as direly now that Moss is around. He'd have to beat out Gaffney to have much of a role in the offense.
65. Craig Davis SD 22 - Looked like a reach in last April's draft, and now he's blocked at WR behind Chambers and V-Jax.

[SIZE=+1]TIER EIGHT[/SIZE]

66. Jason Hill SF 23 - Injuries and inexperience made '07 a lost year for Hill, but there's nothing foreboding ahead of him on the long-term depth chart.
67. Ben Obomanu SEA 24 - Could be in for an expanded role with Seattle's relevant WRs dropping like flies.
68. Justin Gage TEN 27 - Started to show progress as Vince Young's go-to WR in the second half, but his upside is limited.
69. Isaac Bruce SF 35 - Might hit the startable level for one more year, but he'll turn 36 during the season.
70. #Mike Walker JAX 23 - Positive reports from last year's camp, but still injured and further blocked after the Porter signing.
71. Brandon Stokley DEN 32 - Will it take much to beat out Keary Colbert for the #2 WR spot opposite Marshall? I agree.
72. Arnaz Battle SF 28 - The original poor man's Hines Ward could've been a nice sleeper heading into '08, but he appears to be behind Bruce and Johnson on Martz' depth chart.
73. #Roydell Williams TEN 27 - Not a bad step forward in '07, but another Titans WR with limited upside.
74. #Brandon Jones TEN 25 - Possibly the most talented of the gaggle of Titans WRs, but that's damning with faint praise; Coach Fisher seems to have soured on him a bit. tennesseetitans.com
75. Derek Hagan MIA 24 - Can he catch the ball? Does he have maturity issues? Those are the knocks that led the Dolphins to sign Wilford.
76. Koren Robinson GB 28 ? Reclamation project, but nothing more than a roster stash at this point in his career.
77. Devery Henderson NO 26 - Failed utterly with his window of opportunity last season.
78. Troy Williamson JAX 25 - He simply can't catch the ball; still young and speed always buys opportunity, but this is likely his last chance.
79. Dwayne Jarrett CAR 22 - Disappointing '07, now blocked by Hackett and Muhammad.
80. Kevin Walter HOU 27 - Just not talented enough to turn that Texans #2 WR role into a long-term fantasy commodity.
81. Shaun McDonald DET 27 - His slot receiver value went out the door right right behind Mike Martz.
82. Keary Colbert DEN 26 - Can Denver really be counting on him to be the #2 WR this year?
83. Courtney Taylor SEA 24 - In line for an increased role if the Seahawks don't add any help at WR.
84. Logan Payne SEA 24 - Seattle GM Ruskell has been raving about the undrafted 2nd year WR.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Dynasty Ranks: Tight Ends

The important factor to keep in mind about dynasty league tight ends is that they develop as slowly as quarterbacks only to suffer the shelf-life of running backs. A rookie tight end offering startable production is just as rare as an over-thirty tight end remaining a true difference-maker. There are exceptions, of course, such as Shannon Sharpe and Tony Gonzalez. But even going back to Hall of Fame talents like Marion Motley, Mike Ditka, Kellen Winslow, and Ozzie Newsome, aging mows them down much earlier than most positions.

[SIZE=+1]TIER ONE[/SIZE]

1. Antonio Gates SD 28 - When healthy, he's been a tier unto himself among tight ends. Chargers offense could have a tough time working out the cobwebs early with so many key components returning from injury. sandiegochargers.com
2. Kellen Winslow II CLE 25 - Similar to Frank Gore in that many believe he will age quickly due to the seriousness of past leg injuries, but it's no sure thing and he's producing like a stud now. clevelandbrowns.com
3. Jason Witten DAL 26 - A great bet to stay heavily involved in the offense, if not quite as impressively as in '07.

[SIZE=+1]TIER TWO[/SIZE]

4. Chris Cooley WAS 26 - How will he produce in the West Coast offense with a new head coach? He's a terrific red zone weapon, and a consistent bet for 65-70 receptions and 750 yards. washingtonredskins.com
5. Todd Heap BAL 28 - One of the best buy-lows of the off-season at any position; even with putrid QB play, Heap has been a difference maker when healthy. baltimoreravens.com
6. Vernon Davis SF 24 - Kept up statistically with guys like Heath Miller & Jeremy Shockey over the second half of '07 and offers much more upside.
7. Dallas Clark IND 29 - Long-term contract offers very good dynasty in Colts offense; will he be used as heavily as he was last season, or was that a one-year aberration? indianapoliscolts.com
8. Tony Gonzalez KC 32 - Hasn't slowed down yet, but turns 33 during the season and has major QB issues. kansascitychiefs.com
9. Tony Scheffler DEN 25 - Young, athletic Heap clone benefits from an obvious rapport with Cutler and stands to build on outstanding second half numbers.

[SIZE=+1]TIER THREE[/SIZE]

10. Jeremy Shockey NYG 28 - Could be seen as a very good buy-low as flavor of the month Kevin Boss isn't nearly as talented, but there's a definite injury factor here. NY Giants
11. Heath Miller PIT 25 - Great red zone option and very good in the open field, but he just doesn't see consistent enough targets to move to the next level.
12. Ben Watson NE 27 - Running out of time to make good on that tremendous promise. Very good big-play ability, and a nice red zone target, but his poor hands often leave him without the trust of his QB.
13. Owen Daniels HOU 25 - A major component of the Texans passing attack, but he needs to be more involved in the red zone game plan.
14. Greg Olsen CHI 23 - Showed promise on that 1st round talent, but he worked much better with Griese and Desmond Clark re-signed to bleed value from Olsen.

[SIZE=+1]TIER FOUR[/SIZE]

15. Zach Miller OAK 22 - One of the few bright spots in the Raiders offense, he had rookie teammate JaMarcus Russell's attention when the two of them played together in Weeks 16 & 17. oaklandraiders.com
16. Donald Lee GB 28 - 2007 is flashing "career year" in bright neon lights, especially with Rodgers taking over for Favre. greenbaypackers.com
17. Alge Crumpler TEN 30- At age 30 becomes the safety valve for another subpar passer, but he was always able to take that and make it valuable with Vick. tennesseetitans.com
18. L.J. Smith PHI 28 - Could bounce back in '08, but not much security here if he doesn't sign a long-term deal with the Eagles.
19. Marcedes Lewis JAX 24 - Not heavily involved in the Jags offense, but expecting steady, continued improvement isn't unreasonable. jacksonvillejaguars.com

[SIZE=+1]TIER FIVE[/SIZE]

20. Ben Troupe TB 26 - Buccaneers hoping he pushes [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=3147"]Alex Smith[/URL] to the sidelines more often; Troupe has had some obvious issues over the past couple of seasons, but the upside is there if he can put it all together. Tampabaybuccaneers.com
21. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=3147"]Alex Smith[/URL] TB 26 - Talented but always left his NFL team and his fantasy owners wanting more; now in a dogfight with Troupe for his job.www.tampabaybuccaneers.ws
22. Leonard Pope ARI 25 - Fantastic red zone weapon at 6'7", but he's just not used enough between the twenties. arizonacardinals.com
23. Jeff King CAR 24 - Worth more in PPR leagues, but not dynamic or well-rounded enough to do much more than he did in '07. carolinapanthers.com
24. Randy McMichael STL 29 - McMichael had only five of 16 games last season with more than two receptions; not enough TDs or targets in the Rams offense.
25. Ben Utecht CIN 27 - TE2 possibility as easily the best receiving tight end of the Carson Palmer/Marvin Lewis era Bengals. Some are expecting him to be used as Palmer's version of Dallas Clark, but he's not that talented and the Bengals don't use their tight ends as much as the Colts do.
26. Chris Baker NYJ 28 - Seems like he could put up better numbers if the Jets would concentrate on getting him the ball more often, but he hasn't exactly been a difference-maker. newyorkjets.com
27. Desmond Clark CHI 31 - Still putting up interesting numbers, but he's already 31-years-old with Olsen hot on his heels for the starting job while siphoning production in the meantime.

[SIZE=+1]TIER SIX[/SIZE]

28. David Thomas NE 25 - Nice sleeper stash if Watson's hands continue to leave doubts about his game.
29. Kevin Boss NYG 24 - Shockey's eventual replacement, but it's not likely to happen any time soon. NY Giants
30. Anthony Fasano DAL 24 - Needs a Witten injury or the onset of free agency before he accrues real value.
31. Bo Scaife TEN 27 - Never had much of a ceiling and now blocked by Crumpler.
32. Eric Johnson NO 29 - Slowly weeded out of the offense last season, but brought back again.
33. Joe Klopfenstein STL 24 - McMichael's caddy for now.
34. Daniel Graham DEN 29 - He blocks while Scheffler catches passes.
35. Martrez Milner ATL 24 - Crumpler's replacement is the new receiving tight end in Atlanta.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

What you've been missing

When a Rotoworld writer begins to work on our news page, I ask them to keep a couple tests in mind after they write a blurb, among other things.

1) Does it pass the "No Sh*%" test?

Beware the Captain Obvious post.

2) Does it pass the "Who cares" test?

We love going deep with our news; we are thorough with depth chart moves and include every transaction, but there is a line of going overboard. Every backup offensive line battle and "greatest shape of my life" article isn't worth linking to. A big part of our job is simplifying what matters for the reader. Someone has to care ? other than the news-addicted writer.

With the second test in mind, let's look at the events of the last two weeks of NFL news to evaluate which items fantasy leaguers should care about, using our scientifically developed impact meter. I spent much of the time out of the country, so we can catch up together if you've been focusing on baseball.

[SIZE=+1]Brandon Marshall's forearm surgery[/SIZE]

This was just the sort of delightful story that keeps page views humming during a quiet time in football news. Marshall non-existent McDonald's bag is going to go down in Broncos lore next to Brian Griese's dog.

Predictably, there was more to the story. Marshall later admitted he tore five muscle tendons engaging in WWE-style "consensual horseplay" with his brother.

The emerging top-ten fantasy wideout is scheduled to miss the next three-to-four months, which could jeopardize his readiness for training camp. I would be more worried about all this if Marshall didn't have a similarly useless offseason in 2007. He barely practiced until mid-August because of a hamstring injury, and still had a breakout campaign. Marshall is an elite player, so his rehab needs to be monitored closely, but I suspect it won't hurt his 2008 value.

Impactmeter: (1 to 10) 6

[SIZE=+1]Marques Colston undergoes knee surgery

[/SIZE]A routine clean-up isn't a concern. The problem here is that every offseason knee surgery is reported as a "minor" arthroscopic procedure. Colston has endured a lot of injuries in such a short and productive career, so he should be watched closely. If he isn't on the field during the summer, we'll know there was more to this story.

Impactmeter: 5

[SIZE=+1]Ben Utecht signs with Bengals [/SIZE]

Relative unknown tight end singings usually don't register, but this might be an exception. Utecht was quietly productive with the Colts (19th among tight ends in yardage last two years) and should step into a starting role. The Bengals have never used a tight end to catch passes, but their wideouts can open up chances underneath. Utecht will be on the radar as a deep sleeper. Know him.

Impactmeter: 3

[SIZE=+1]Houshmazilli, Ocho Cinco skip offseason workouts [/SIZE]

Not all offseason "holdouts" are created equal. Carson Palmer, for instance, appears less cool with [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL]'s truancy than T.J. Houshmandzadeh's.

Fantasy leaguers shouldn't care too much about either. There is nothing more overrated than an offseason worth of holdout stories because players always show up when it's time to get paid. Look for Housh to get a new contract. And look for Johnson to be playing for the Bengals on Sundays. I don't think Johnson is quite dumb enough to turn into a T.O-in-Philly like distraction, but that will have to be monitored. Whether the Bengals consider trading him or not (not likely), his holdout remains just noise for a while.

Impactmeter: 4

[SIZE=+1]Quinn Gray signs with the Texans [/SIZE]

I thought Gray had a shot to earn a solid backup job, but the Packers weren't interested. Now he's the number three quarterback in Houston. The only fantasy impact here is that Houston may be more willing to trade Sage Rosenfels on draft day to the Vikings. That would register much higher.

Impactmeter: 1

[SIZE=+1]Oakland acquires DeAngelo Hall, hands him monster contract[/SIZE]

Maybe DeAngelo Hall was in Manny Ramirez' book club for the The Secret. If you act like an elite player, and truly believe you are an elite player, maybe someone will become convinced and pay you that way. It happened to Javon Walker earlier this off-season, and now DeAngelo Hall got the desperate Al Davis treatment.
oaklandraiders.com
Hall is an overrated cornerback, but he's a decent start and represents an improvement for the Raiders. Put him across from Nmandi Asomugha, one of the game's best, and Oakland is more likely to resemble the tough secondary of '06 more than the struggling unit from last season. This move should make the Raiders a slightly tougher matchup for opposing pass games.

Impactmeter: 3

<!--RW-->[SIZE=+1]Darrell Jackson cut by 49ers[/SIZE]

A couple signs your NFL stock is falling.

* A receiver-needy team cuts you in favor of someone drafted by the Los Angeles Rams.

* Your team cuts you instead of Ashley Lelie.

* No team shows interest in you for weeks after you are released.

Darrell Jackson could matter again in fantasy leagues in the perfect situation (Philadelphia? Seattle?), but it's no guarantee. He was always a better fantasy option than reality option.

Impactmeter: 7

[SIZE=+1]Kris Wilson signs with Eagles [/SIZE]

The mere fact I included this tiny transaction shows I care. Rotoworld has always thought Wilson had the tools to matter as a fantasy tight end. In Philadelphia, he might just get the shot if L.J. Smith gets hurt again. He's a deep sleeper, even for dynasty league players, but someone to know.

Impactmeter: 2

[SIZE=+1]D.J. Hackett signs with Carolina [/SIZE]

It's too bad for Hackett I'm not an NFL GM because I would have outbid no one in particular to make him a rich man. D.J. Hackett signing for roughly the same amount per-season as Devard Darling was one of the true stunners of the offseason.

Considering the alternatives (Tampa, Washington, Seattle), signing in Carolina was a mild disappointment. He'll have to learn a new system on a below-average passing attack. While he's the favorite to start opposite [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] (a nice spot), Muhsin Muhammad and Dwayne Jarrett will compete for snaps and targets. I still believe in Hackett's talent, but he's going to be more of a sleeper than a top-30 pick. carolinapanthers.com

Impactmeter: 9

[SIZE=+1]Tony Scheffler is streamlining [/SIZE]

This isn't your normal player losing 15 pounds story. Scheffler bulked up to 265 pounds before last season in an effort to improve his blocking bona fides. He then broke his foot, and never caught up.

This year, a trimmer Scheffler isn't worried about adding mass. The Broncos have Daniel Graham for blocking, and with a huge hole at number two wideout, Scheffler could wind up being Jay Cutler's second option this year ? if he stays on the field.

Impactmeter: 3

[SIZE=+1]Reche Caldwell signs with the Rams[/SIZE]

He's currently their number three receiver, but St. Louis hopes that won't be the case by Week 1. And as Drew Bennett showed last season, number threes in St. Louis are no longer that productive.

Impactmeter: 1

[SIZE=+1]Any Draft Speculation[/SIZE]

Useful draft information: Jonathan Stewart's surgery, Malcolm Kelly's troublesome knees, and Evan Silva's columns.

Useless draft information: Almost any speculation about what your favorite team is going to do, especially if someone is quoted in the article. Don't get me wrong; it's fun to follow all the rumors. Just don't take any of them too seriously. Year after year, the NFL Draft includes surprise after surprise. And it's because teams do a great job protecting their true intentions.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Draft '08: The Tight Ends
The 2008 crop of tight ends is underrated. It isn't half as bad as last year's class, of which only nine players made their team's Week 1 roster. Let's have a look.

[SIZE=+1]1. John Carlson, Notre Dame[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'5/254
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.89 forty, 20 x 225, 30" vertical, 4.28 short shuttle
Comparison: Heath Miller
Draft Projection: Early second to early third round
2007 Statistics: 40-372-9.3-3 Tds

Positives: Carlson's game is the most well rounded of all the TEs in this year's draft. He is versatile, having forced fumbles and made tackles in kick coverage before taking over as a full-time starter in '06. Carlson played hoops for the Irish early in his career and is a superior athlete to predecessor Anthony Fasano. He will find soft spots in a zone and is purely a hands catcher. Carlson is considered a technically sound blocker with potential to be outstanding in that area. He is an experienced and crafty route runner and will pick up yards after the catch.

Negatives: Carlson couldn't sustain his junior season production (47-634-13.5-4 Tds) as the Irish transitioned from Brady Quinn to musical-chair quarterbacks in 2007. He ran a lineman-esque forty at the Combine, though that can be attributed to a severe bout of food poisoning. Carlson missed two games with a knee injury in 2006.

Verdict: Carlson shook off his illness and ran a 4.72 at his Pro Day. He proved in college that he can get downfield and should make an immediate impact as a special teamer/blocking No. 2 tight end. If Carlson is drafted into the right situation, a first year mirroring Zach Miller's (44-444-10.1-3 Tds) is realistic. He should be a quality starter by year two at the latest.

[SIZE=+1]2. Martellus Bennett, Texas A&M[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'7/255
College Experience: Third-year junior
Combine Results: 4.68 forty, 18 x 225, 34" vertical
Comparison: Marcedes Lewis
Draft Projection: Early second to early third round
2007 Statistics: 49-587-12.0-4 Tds

Positives: Bennett managed strong production in 2006-2007 despite playing in the Aggies' run-heavy offense under since-fired coach Dennis Franchione. He was highly durable in college. Bennett is a charasmatic player on and off the field and possesses obvious leadership skills. He is considered an average in-line tight end at this stage, but has the frame and work ethic to improve greatly as a blocker. Bennett will have just turned 21 when drafted.

Negatives: Bennett played basketball for A&M as a freshman and sophomore, and it may have set back his growth in the sport he is better at. He must improve his strength and route running and probably isn't ready to be flexed outside as a rookie.

Verdict: Bennett received a first-round grade from the Draft Advisory Board before declaring early. While he seems unlikely to be chosen that high, all signs point to Bennett evolving into an above average to good starter in the league. He has work to do, but isn't as raw as his pedigree says he is. Bennett can make an impact as a pass-catching rookie backup.

[SIZE=+1]3. Dustin Keller, Purdue[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'2/239
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.55 forty, 26 x 225, 38" vertical, 4.14 short shuttle
Comparison: Dallas Clark
Draft Projection: Late first to mid-second round
2007 Statistics: 68-881-13.0-7 Tds

Positives: Keller is highly explosive on the run and possesses game-breaking vertical ability. He is considered a strong route runner and will beat most linebackers and strong safeties off the line of scrimmage. Keller is at his best down the seams. He is considered an effort blocker, although that isn't a part of his game that will translate to the next level.

Negatives: Keller played in a college spread and has very little experience as an in-line blocker. He was basically a slot receiver for Joe Tiller. Keller would likely have serious problems if an NFL team asked him to take on a defensive end. He missed a game in 2005 with a sprained ankle and broke his left hand in 2006.

Verdict: Keller is a wideout in a mini tight end's body. There's nothing wrong with that, but it leaves serious doubts about his long-term potential as an every-down player. Keller is very capable of making an impact as a rookie, but the team drafting him will have to be set at most other positions. He'll be a luxury pick on April 26.

[SIZE=+1]4. Fred Davis, USC[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'3/250
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 24 x 225
Comparison: Ben Watson
Draft Projection: Early to late second round
2007 Statistics: 62-881-14.2-8 Tds

Positives: Davis was the Trojans' leading receiver in 2007, a first-team All American, and won the John Mackey Award as the nation's No. 1 tight end. He made major strides as a vertical threat. Davis' 14.2 YPC average ranked second among TEs in Division I, behind only Florida's Cornelius Ingram. Davis is considered a fundamentally sound blocker. He has good hands, ideal intangibles, and improved drastically every season at USC.

Negatives: Davis has not earned high marks for his offseason by skipping all pre-Pro Day workouts due to a mysterious knee injury. He showed poor fluidity and ran in the mid-4.7s at his Pro Day. Davis may not be big enough to overpower NFL strong-side linebackers or ends one-on-one. He created mismatches in the passing game because of his athleticism at USC, but was often protected by Dale Thompson on early downs. Thompson, a blocking specialist, actually ran faster than Davis at the Trojans' campus workout.

Verdict: Like Keller, Davis began his college career as a wideout. He has grown into a better all-around player with a better build, but hasn't been as consistent a vertical threat. Carlson's blocking skills compare favorably to Davis'. Davis could be a starter down the road, but there are question marks about his smoothness, straight-line speed, and knee injury.

[SIZE=+1]5. Kellen Davis, Michigan State[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'6/259
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.60 forty, 22 x 225
Comparison: Bubba Franks
Draft Projection: Early third to to early fourth round
2007 Statistics: 32-513-16.0-6 Tds

Positives: Davis has ideal size and straight-line speed for the position. He made major strides after John L. Smith left the Spartans prior to the '07 campaign, bulking up and taking on a prominent role in the passing game. Davis has experience in kick coverage and is considered a willing blocker. He is an efficient, improving red-zone target and consistently explodes off the line.

Negatives: Davis never caught more than 15 passes in a season as an underclassman. He was charged with misdemeanor assault and suspended four games as a junior. Davis was seemingly in and out of Smith's doghouse in his first three years a MSU. He is considered raw as both a blocker and a route runner.

Verdict: Davis is being knocked as a "workout wonder" without production to back it up. But the reality is that Smith's system never took advantage of Davis' skills. While he needs to polish just about every aspect of his game, Davis is a project well worth a mid-round pick. Davis seemed to mature greatly as a senior and has upside to be a good NFL starter by year three.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]6. Martin Rucker, Missouri[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'5/249
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 20 x 225
Comparison: Donald Lee
Draft Projection: Late third to mid-fourth round
2007 Statistics: 84-834-9.9-8 Tds, 14-50-3.6-0 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Rucker has ideal experience as a four-year starter. He set a school record for catches as a senior and played extensively on special teams. Rucker flashes vertical ability and is an outstanding athlete. However, he has virtually no experience as a blocker, having spent most of his career flexed out in coach Gary Pinkel's spread. Rucker also was known to drop some balls he should've caught at Mizzou. He's missed all pre-draft work with a sore hamstring and there are rumors that Rucker's injury is much more severe than he's let on.

Verdict: Injuries are nothing new for Rucker, who tore his labrum prior to the 2004 season. Being venerable ex-Panthers DE Mike Rucker's brother is somewhat reassuring, but Martin has a ways to go before being a starting-caliber pro. He'll be drafted solely as a pass-catching backup.

[SIZE=+1]7. Gary Barnidge, Louisville[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'6/247
College Experience: Fourth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.63 forty, 22 x 225, 31" vertical, 4.23 short shuttle
Comparison: Matt Schobel
Draft Projection: Late fourth to late fifth round
2007 Statistics: 53-655-12.4-7 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Barnidge possesses good weight-room strength, but isn't considered much of an in-line blocker. Still, he has reliable hands and a good amount of production on his resume. Barnidge had something of a breakout season after Bobby Petrino left Louisville and Steve Kragthorpe took over in 2007. He is a reliable short-to-intermediate weapon, but may struggle to stretch the field in the pros.

Verdict: Barnidge has the skills and athleticism to be a pass-catching No. 2 or 3 NFL tight end, but that's about his upside. If he works hard to improve his blocking and lands in the right situation, Barnidge could carve out a career not unlike Matt Schobel's.

[SIZE=+1]8. Brad Cottam, Tennessee[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'7/271
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.68 forty, 24 x 225, 33" vertical
Comparison: Quinn Sypniewski
Draft Projection: Mid-third to mid-fourth round
2007 Statistics: 5-125-25.0-1 Td

Positives/Negatives: Cottam's on paper size/straight ahead speed ratio is rare and he is regarded as a very good blocker with potential to be dominant in that area. But Cottam has never been able to stay healthy long enough to produce. He underwent five different surgeries as a Volunteer, including a wrist procedure that sidelined him for all but four games in 2007. Cottam is older than the average rookie and will be 24 years old in his first season.

Verdict: Cottom appeared stiff as a pass catcher at the Senior Bowl. Since he rarely was used in Tennessee's passing game, that was Cottam's time to shine. Cottam is an interesting prospect, but basically a complete project at age 24. A conversion to tackle may be in his future.

[SIZE=+1]9. Jermichael Finley, Texas[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'5/240
College Experience: Third-year sophomore
Combine Results: 4.82 forty, 9.08' broad jump
Comparison: Bryan Fletcher
Draft Projection: Early fourth to late fourth round
2007 Statistics: 45-575-12.8-2 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Billed as a speedster with starting-caliber upside, Finley turned in an especially unimpressive forty time at the Combine. He rebounded by running in the 4.6s at UT's Pro Day. Finley has big hands and a long, lean build with very little fat on his body. But concerns remain about whether the Longhorns' spread-out offense made Finley look faster and better in the open field than he actually is.

Verdict: Some team will draft Finley on potential, and for good reason. He has room on his frame to fill out, flashed serious playmaking ability at Texas, and is only 21 years old. However, there's also a chance that Finley will find himself physically overmatched at the next level. He is a boom-or-bust prospect.

[SIZE=+1]10. Craig Stevens, California[/SIZE]

Height/Weight: 6'4/255
College Experience: Fifth-year senior
Combine Results: 4.62 forty, 27 x 225, 27" vertical
Comparison: Steve Heiden
Draft Projection: Fifth to sixth round
2007 Statistics: 17-204-12.0-3 Tds

Positives/Negatives: Stevens didn't miss a game in his college career. He was never especially productive in Jeff Tedford's tight end-unfriendly attack, but gained experience as a blocker and is considered a proficient route runner. Despite his good-looking forty time, Stevens was not a seam stretcher at Cal. He is experienced on special teams.

Verdict: Stevens projects as a No. 3 tight end initially with potential to eventually be a one of the better No. 2s in the league. No aspect of Stevens' game sticks out, but he should have a long career ala Kellen Winslow's top backup Steve Heiden. That makes Stevens worth a mid- to late-round pick.

[SIZE=+1]11. Jacob Tamme, Kentucky[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]12. Darrell Strong, Pittsburgh[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]13. Derek Fine, Kansas[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]14. Robert Lane, Mississippi[/SIZE]
[SIZE=+1]15. Joe Jon Finley, Oklahoma[/SIZE]

Other TEs with a Good Shot to be Drafted: Michael Santi (Virginia), Joey Haynos (Maryland), Adam Bishop (Nevada), Cole Bennett (Auburn), Chris Brown (Tennessee), Andrew Atchison (William & Mary), Matt Sherry (Villanova), Tyson DeVree (Colorado), Christian Hopkins (Toledo), Joe Tuineau (Southeast Missouri State), Mike Peterson (Northwest Missouri State), Jed Collins (Washington State)

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Team Needs: AFC East and North

While the Patriots literally can't improve their regular season record in 2008, the rest of the AFC East has a great opportunity. The Bills and Jets especially could emerge as surprise playoff teams because they get two games against Miami, and plus out of division games against the lowly NFC West and AFC West. This division has the easiest schedule in the league.

[SIZE=+1]AFC East[/SIZE]

[SIZE=+1]Buffalo Bills [/SIZE]

1. CB: While the offense needs playmakers, Buffalo's shallow talent pool at cornerback is more glaring. Terrence McGee is one of the worst "number one" corners in the league. The value at cornerback will be better than wideout in the first round, so Buffalo could invest early. buffalobills.com

2. WR: This position made our list the last two years, but the Bills accepted another year of mediocrity out of Peerless Price, Josh Reed, and Roscoe Parrish. Price is gone, but Buffalo still is missing starting caliber talent to play opposite Lee Evans.

3. TE: Trent Edwards needs someone to get open; It doesn't matter what position. With the defense and offensive line in good shape, the Bills can afford a luxury pick with a pass-catching tight end.

[SIZE=+1]Miami Dolphins [/SIZE]

1. T: If nothing else, taking over a 1-15 team ensures unpredictability on draft day. Bill Parcells can pick the best available player because nearly every position is a need. Tackle is especially thin after roster purging, which helps Jake Long's chances of getting taken first. miamidolphins.com

2. QB: Josh McCown is a below average stopgap and John Beck, two years older than Derek Anderson, is a below average prospect. Look for a quarterback to be drafted.

3. DT: Every 3-4 defense needs a plugger in the middle and BPG (Bill Parcells Guy) Jason Ferguson is near the end of the line.

4. CB:Any defensive position in Miami could use young talent, but their current group of corners looks especially weak.

[SIZE=+1]New England Patriots [/SIZE]

1. CB: No team covers up cornerback weaknesses better, but even Bill Belichick's defense could get exposed with Ellis Hobbs starting opposite Jason Webster. They need their next Ty Law or Asante Samuel, but the value may not be at there at number seven.

2. LB: The Belichick/Pioli tandem hasn't drafted a decent linebacker since, uh, ever. While they like wily veterans, Tedy Bruschi desperately needs help inside.

3. T: Matt Light and Nick Kaczur's athleticism got exposed in the Super Bowl. They have a solid line, but the team needs to start planning for Light's decline.

See who the Patriots drafted in Pancake Blocks' reader generated Mock draft.

[SIZE=+1]New York Jets [/SIZE]

1. CB: The Jets hit on Darrelle Revis last year. Now he needs a buddy.

2. QB: While this isn't seen as a huge short term need, there are doubts whether Kellen Clemens will ever be "The Guy." Don't be shocked if Matt Ryan winds up moving from Boston to New York. www,newyorkjets.ws

3. DE: New York's defensive line is passable, but they need to develop some future starters at end.

4. OL: They addressed the line in free agency, but still could use some depth on the interior.
<!--RW-->
[SIZE=+1]AFC North[/SIZE]

There may not be a division in football more up for grabs than the AFC North. Baltimore was in the basement last year, but is only a year removed from having a playoff bye. Their defense is playoff ready and they traditionally draft well. The Bengals have enough talent to make it back, but a lack of front office investment shows up on their poor roster depth. Pittsburgh and Cleveland have both drafted well in recent years. A brutal out of division schedule in 2008 will make it that much harder for AFC North teams to win a wild card. The balanced nature of the division only makes this draft more important.

[SIZE=+1]Baltimore Ravens[/SIZE]

1. CB: Samari Rolle is past his prime, and the Ravens cornerback depth was exposed late last season.
baltimoreravens.com
2. QB: We thought Steve McNair's career was over when last season ended, but the Ravens say he's the favorite to start. Don't be so sure he makes it to Week 1. In Kyle Boller and Troy Smith, the Ravens have two decent backups; They still need a franchise quarterback.

3. T: Some think this is Baltimore's biggest need with Jonathan Ogden on the retirement fence. But the Ravens have prepared well for this day with three picks at tackle in recent years. They don't need to reach.

[SIZE=+1]Cincinnati Bengals [/SIZE]

1. DT: Five years into the Marvin Lewis era, the Bengals still can't stop the run.

2. LB: See team need number one. Linebacker has been a black hole of draft picks for the Bengals lately, with a lot of picks and only one building block (Ahmad Brooks) to show for it.

3. WR: With [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] gone, the Bengals need a new set of hands off the bench. A rookie could also double as long-term Ocho Cinco implosion insurance

4. RB: When you have four possible starters at running back, you really don't have any good ones. After taking Chris Perry and Kenny Irons in recent years, the Bengals may be gun-shy.


[SIZE=+1]Cleveland Browns [/SIZE]

1. OLB: The Browns could go in a lot of directions, but they need to find a bookend to pair with Kamerion Wimbley. clevelandbrowns.com

2. CB: The Browns must really love Brandon McDonald to trade Leigh Bodden, but they still need a nickel back.

3. DE: Corey Williams and Shaun Rogers are a great start, but Cleveland could use another end to complete their Extreme Makeover: Pass Rush.

[SIZE=+1]Pittsburgh Steelers [/SIZE]

1. OL: The Steelers waited too long to remake their offensive line, and now they will be picking there because they have to.

2. CB: The DeShea Townsend and Bryant McFadden tandem at one cornerback spot needs some competition.

3. DE: With underrated stalwart Aaron Smith getting older, the Steelers won't look past a difference maker at end.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Team Needs: AFC South and West

Team needs for the AFC East and North were examined earlier this week.

[SIZE=+1]AFC South [/SIZE]

The Titans, Texans, and Jaguars have steadily improved the last few years to close the gap with the Colts. They have done it through solid drafting. Rick Smith has done a fine job improving the talent base after taking over in Houston, and the Titans seem to be better off since Floyd Reese was let go. The Jaguars also have new decision makers, as Gene Smith and Jack Del Rio won a power struggle with Shack Harris that was decided by the David Garrard decision. jacksonvillejaguars.com

Still, this entire division is trying to catch up with Colts President Bill Polian. He might be the best in the business at specifically plugging roster holes. With four solid starting quarterbacks in place, the AFC South can claim to be the best division in football.

[SIZE=+1]Houston Texans [/SIZE]

1. T: The Texans magically cut down their sacks when David Carr wasn't holding on to the ball too long, but they are still missing a franchise left tackle.

2. RB: The Texans are still looking for their first workhorse back. They can get by with the players on the roster now, but Ahman Green's time is ending soon and the rest of the options are average.

3. DE: The Texans have invested heavily at this position, but starter Anthony Weaver remains an injury risk.

4. CB: Dunta Robinson's injury makes this need more pressing.

[SIZE=+1]Indianapolis Colts [/SIZE]
indianapoliscolts.com
1. LB: The Colts watch so many linebackers leave via free agency that they always need a fresh supply in reserve.

2. DT: The Colts have thrown a lot of money at this position without finding many answers.

3. RB: Kenton Keith was a nice find from the CFL, but his stone hands don't fit the Colts profile. Joseph Addai needs a tandem partner.

4. G: The Colts seem to be able to plug anyone into their line and make it work, but they could use some youth on the inside.

[SIZE=+1]Jacksonville Jaguars [/SIZE]
jacksonvillejaguars.com
1. DE: Some of the receivers are question marks, but the Jaguars are fairly deep with talent at most of the offensive positions. They have struggled to develop consistent pass rushers on the outside, although they work fine as a rotation.

2.DT: Marcus Stroud couldn't get healthy, so Jacksonville dealt him. Now they must replace him.

3. CB: They still don't have enough guys to cover the Colts.

[SIZE=+1]Tennessee Titans [/SIZE]
tennesseetitans.com
1. CB: I'm not sure how this unit excelled in 2007 without Pacman Jones (the pass rush is a good start), but don't count on it happening again.

2. WR: The Titans have a ridiculous amount of wide receivers who could start, but most of them look like long-term reserves. They don't have to pass up the right possible starter if they like one.

3. DE: The Titans have plugged the loss of Antwan Odom and Travis LaBoy by signing veterans. They need some long-term solutions rushing the passer.

<!--RW-->
[SIZE=+1]AFC West [/SIZE]

San Diego is the only team who could claim to be better drafters than Indianapolis and New England over the last five years. Meanwhile, their division rivals have mostly swung and missed. Kansas City might have the worst roster in the league. Oakland threw a lot of money at organizational problems this year. They are a boom or bust team. Denver is greatly helped by Mike Shanahan the coach, but Mike Shanahan the GM often comes up short. They seem to re-make half their roster every year and are thin at too many positions.

[SIZE=+1]Denver Broncos [/SIZE]

1. OT: Denver values athleticism more than brawn on their line, so they can often find value later in the draft. Still, Ryan Clady fits their profile and may be tough to pass on in round one if available.

2. DT: Learning how to stop the run starts in the middle.

3. WR: We love us some Keary Colbert revival in Denver. But counting on him to be the long-term starter opposite Brandon Marshall is optimistic, even for us.

4. LB: Niko Koutouvides and Boss Bailey were signed to re-make the Denver linebacker corps this off-season. Bailey is always hurt and Koutouvides has never started before, so more work is needed.

[SIZE=+1]Kansas City Chiefs[/SIZE]
kansascitychiefs.com
1. OL: Pick a position on the line, any position. For Brodie Croyle and Larry Johnson's sake, they will pick a few.

2. QB: For Larry Johnson's sake, they will also look hard at quarterbacks that aren't Brodie Croyle.

3. WR: Your starting receiver battle opposite Dwayne Bowe is currently Jeff Webb versus Devard Darling. Long live King Carl Peterson!

4. CB: Patrick Surtain is running out of gas, and the depth behind him is shallow.

See the surprise pick the Chiefs made in The Pancake Blocks Mock Draft

[SIZE=+1]Oakland Raiders [/SIZE]
oaklandraiders.com
1. T: In 2007, Oakland learned how to run block. If they add a tackle and learn to protect JaMarcus Russell, the kid might have a shot. They can't let the Robert Gallery fiasco get in their way here.

2. DT: Terdell Sands played like the nickname kids probably called him in middle school.

3. DE: Oakland used free agency to address the position, but they need to add some homegrown talent.

4. WR: Someone to fill in when Javon Walker inevitably gets hurt.

[SIZE=+1]San Diego Chargers[/SIZE]
sandiegochargers.com
1. T: The team currently has last year's sixth-rounder Jeromey Clary slated to start on the right side. They know more than we do, but he's a rare untested starter and the team has no depth.

2. RB: It says a lot that filling the backup running spot is San Diego's second biggest need. The team would rather keep Darren Sproles in a situational role

3. NT:The Chargers are mostly looking for depth. Getting reserves at cornerback, linebacker, and guard could all help. But targeting an eventual replacement for Jamal Williams makes the most sense.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Team Needs: NFC East and North

Gregg Rosenthal has taken you through AFC team needs. Here are links to his two columns:

AFC East, North
AFC South, West

I'll spin you around the tougher top-to-bottom conference, home of the 2007 Super Bowl Champs, beginning with the East and North divisions. The NFC West and South will be up Friday.

[SIZE=+1]NFC East[/SIZE]

If the AFC South is football's best division, then the National Football Conference's East branch is second by only a nose. Not one NFC East member finished with a losing record in 2007. The four teams' combined out-of-conference mark was 11-5. Three made the playoffs. Heading to 2008, only the Redskins can reasonably be considered non-Super Bowl contenders.

[SIZE=+1]Dallas Cowboys[/SIZE]

1. RB: In a draft loaded with speedy scatbacks, Dallas has options with its two first-round selections. Because Marion Barber isn't a homerun hitter, change of pace prospects Jamaal Charles, Felix Jones, and [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1804"]Chris Johnson[/URL] are obvious fits. Dallas must enter May with a tailback capable of 150 effective carries as a rookie.

2. CB: Terence Newman is in a contract year and Anthony Henry could move to strong safety if Dallas lands a legitimate starting corner. The player must possess man-to-man cover skills. Return value wouldn't hurt.

3. WR: With Patrick Crayton best in the slot and Terry Glenn's reliability in doubt, Dallas could target a playmaking flanker as high as 22nd overall. If Jerry Jones finds better first-round value at another position, Kansas State's Jordy Nelson might be a consideration in round two.

[SIZE=+1]New York Giants[/SIZE]
NY Giants
1. FS: Sammy Knight, 32, is penciled in as a starter, but isn't a long-term solution and Michael Johnson needs another year. A speedy, proficient blitzer like Josh Barrett (Arizona State) for Steve Spagnuolo's fire-zone scheme would work nicely.

2. CB: Despite Corey Webster's solid postseason, the jury remains out on whether he can do it for 16 games. Sam Madison is 34, while R.W. McQuarters and Kevin Dockery are sub-package corners. After whiffing on DeAngelo Hall, the Giants need someone to play full time opposite Aaron Ross.

3. DT: Jay Alford is unproven and Manuel Wright can't be relied on as a third tackle. The Giants may eye a run stopper to rotate with NT Barry Cofield like Texas A&M's Red Bryant.

[SIZE=+1]Philadelphia Eagles[/SIZE]

1. WR: If the Birds can pry [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL] from Detroit, they'll have to ante up. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=378"]Kevin Curtis[/URL] could then move to the slot in three-receiver sets. Rookies are less likely to help a win-now Eagles team, but DeSean Jackson will be worth a look.

2. FS: Sean Considine can't take the pounding required of a 16-game starter. Brian Dawkins turns 35 in October. A hard-nosed safety with ball skills and punt return value (assuming they don't draft Jackson) like Tom Zbikowski could work in round three or four.

3. CB: This isn't a need with Lito Sheppard on the roster, but will become one when he's traded on April 26. While Joselio Hanson is a solid dime back, the Eagles won't want to rely on him to start if Asante Samuel or Sheldon Brown goes down.

[SIZE=+1]Washington Redskins[/SIZE]
washingtonredskins.com
1. WR: Not just any receiver; a big one posing an after-the-catch threat for Jim Zorn's West Coast attack. If the Redskins deem his outstanding 2007 campaign valuable enough, Michigan State one-year wonder Devin Thomas (6'2/217) could be the 21st pick overall.

2. SS: LaRon Landry is moving to free safety to man Sean Taylor's old spot. The 'Skins would rather use Reed Doughty as a third safety. This draft is brutal at the position, but a well-rounded prospect like Dejaun Morgan (NC State) could be there in round two.

3. DE: Andre Carter is set at RE, but injury-prone LE Phillip Daniels is 35 and Washington is starved for depth. If the Redskins don't find a first-round receiver they like, Phillip Merling would be an ideal choice, assuming team doctors clear him after undergoing hernia surgery in March.

4. OLB: Weak-side 'backer Rocky McIntosh (torn ACL) is questionable for Week 1. The Redskins probably don't want to enter the season with H.B. Blades at the WILL uncontested.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]NFC North[/SIZE]

Every NFC North ballclub has question marks at quarterback. Rex Grossman, 27, owns a career completion rate of 54.3. Kyle Orton's (52.0) is even worse and his yards-per-attempt is a dreadful 5.2. Aaron Rodgers, 24, and Tarvaris Jackson, 25, have the best supporting casts. But don't be surprised if Drew Stanton, 23, emerges as the division's most promising signal caller by season's end.

[SIZE=+1]Chicago Bears[/SIZE]

1. RB: There isn't a starting-caliber tailback on Chicago's roster. A dream scenario would have local product Rashard Mendenhall falling to No. 14. If not, Tulane's Matt Forte could be of interest in round two or three. The Bears will look at power runners.

2. OT: Most have Chicago tabbing a first-round left tackle so John Tait can shift to the right. If a mauler like Jeff Otah (Pittsburgh) is on the board at 14, it will be difficult for GM Jerry Angelo to pass.

3. WR: The Bears can get by with their current corps...until Mark Bradley gets hurt again. But if they want an instant impact wideout, the Bears will have to take one by round three.

4. QB: There's reason to believe neither Orton nor Grossman has what it takes to be successful. If the Bears draft a signal caller, he'll require a big arm to cut through the wind at Soldier Field. Andre Woodson, arguably college football's best QB in 2007 behind Tim Tebow, is an ideal fourth-round target.

[SIZE=+1]Detroit Lions[/SIZE]
detroitlions.com
1. DE: Detroit's defense simply doesn't work when the front four fails to generate pressure. Not only do they need more from Cory Redding (one sack in '07), the Lions must find an explosive end capable of beating left tackles. They'll struggle for one in this draft.

2. RB: Coordinator Jim Colletto and coach Rod Marinelli can talk about adding zone runs all they want, but it isn't going to make Tatum Bell a viable starter. Brian Calhoun has potential, but hasn't been healthy as a pro.

3. ILB: The Lions plan to use their second-round pick on an athletic linebacker with potential to eventually play the middle. Jerod Mayo (Tennessee), Jordon Dizon (Colorado), and Curtis Lofton (Oklahoma) are on their radar.

4. DT: Sub out Shaun Rogers (29 years old, seven sacks in 2007). Sub in Chartric Darby (32, eight sacks since 2003, rehabbing torn patellar tendon). Another massive problem area.

[SIZE=+1]Green Bay Packers[/SIZE]
greenbaypackers.com
1. CB: A playmaking nickel back that can eventually supplant Al Harris (33) or Charles Woodson (31) is needed. GM Ted Thompson prefers tall corners, making Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (6'2) an ideal choice. Since DRC is unlikely to fall to No. 30, underrated Antoine Cason (6'1) could be Thompson's target.

2. QB: Rodgers won't face competition, but the Packers need a backup after missing out in free agency. Jerry Babb and Dalton Bell definitely aren't the solution. Dealing for a slightly more experienced youngster like Charlie Whitehurst is an intriguing alternative.

3. OT: LT Chad Clifton (32 in June) and RT Mark Tauscher (31) aren't getting younger. Promising 2007 fourth-round pick Allen Barbre fits better at guard. The Packers need a tackle that can play right away if one of their starters gets injured.

[SIZE=+1]Minnesota Vikings[/SIZE]
minnesotavikings.com
1. DE: It's hard not to like Ray Edwards and Brian Robison's upside, but neither is ready to play every down. The Vikings cannot rely on Erasmus James' knee or incumbent LE Kenechi Udeze (leukemia).

2. QB: Jackson may lack the accuracy to be a success. Gus Frerotte defines journeyman. Until the Vikings find an answer here, [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] will constantly face stacked fronts.

3. C: The Vikings are happy with college center Ryan Cook at right tackle, where his 6'6/320-pound frame is more valuable. There are whispers of a Bryant McKinnie trade, so left tackle may become a need on draft day. Finding an eventual replacement for Matt Birk should come first.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Team Needs: NFC South and West


Our pre-NFL Draft team needs wrap up with the NFC South and West divisions. Here are the three previous columns:

AFC East, North
AFC South, West
NFC East, North

[SIZE=+1]NFC South[/SIZE]

All four NFC South teams will likely begin 2008 with new starting tailbacks. Atlanta paid Michael Turner $34.5 million over six seasons to replace Warrick Dunn. DeAngelo Williams is the new man in Carolina. Earnest Graham may be close to signing an extension that could lock him in as the Bucs' long-term lead back. With Deuce McAllister recovering from dual knee surgeries, Reggie Bush figures to take the Saints' first handoff of the season.

[SIZE=+1]Atlanta Falcons[/SIZE]
atlantafalcons.com
1. OT: Four Falcons saw starts at left tackle in 2007; Wayne Gandy was cut in February, Renardo Foster is coming off a torn ACL, and Terrance Pennington a torn pectorals. Quinn Ojinnaka isn't a realistic option. If the Falcons don't do something here, it won't matter who their quarterback is.

2. QB: Chris Redman put up decent numbers in five '07 appearances, but the Falcons need an accurate, athletic signal caller like Brian Brohm to be the new face of their franchise. The QB doesn't necessarily require a big arm because Atlanta plays in a dome.

3. CB: Trading DeAngelo Hall left Atlanta with one respectable starting option at corner (Chris Houston). Competition is sorely needed for David Irons and Brent Grimes.

4. DT: Having overseen Marcus Stroud and John Henderson in Jacksonville, new coach Mike Smith knows the difference dominant interior linemen make. If Glenn Dorsey gets past the 'Fins and Rams, he'll likely be a Falcon.

[SIZE=+1]Carolina Panthers[/SIZE]
carolinapanthers.com
1. DE: Not only is Julius Peppers' contract set to expire in 2009, Carolina currently has Charles Johnson penciled in as its starting right end. Johnson was rarely on the game-day roster as a rookie. Mike Rucker could be re-signed, but he has little left.

2. OT: The Panthers have seemingly planned their offseason around drafting an instant starter at left tackle. However, because usual RT Jordan Gross can play the left side adequately, Carolina could not afford to pass on a potential every-down defensive end like Derrick Harvey at No. 13.

3. RB: Williams deserves his chance to be featured, but Carolina must upgrade behind him. 220+ pounders Jalen Parmele (Toledo), Ryan Torain (Arizona State), and Benjarvus Green-Ellis (Mississippi) are mid- to late-round possibilities.

4. FS: This is a position GM Marty Hurney intended to address last April, but he couldn't find value in the early rounds. Hurney may be faced with a similar situation this year.

[SIZE=+1]New Orleans Saints[/SIZE]

1. CB: Top corner Mike McKenzie (torn ACL) is doubtful for Week 1 and the Saints don't have a proven starter after him. Jason David should be squarely on the bench. Leodis McKelvin would be hard to pass up at No. 10 if he gets by Baltimore.

2. DT: Both Saints starting tackles (Brian Young and Hollis Thomas) are over 30. There's workmanlike depth behind them, but also lots of room to improve.

3. OT: While the Saints are set with Jamaal Brown on Drew Brees' blind side, RT Jon Stinchomb enters a contract year. If they aren't ready to insert 2007 fourth-rounder and former Mel Kiper sleeper Jermon Bushrod, another mid-round selection on a road-grading tackle makes sense.

[SIZE=+1]Tampa Bay Buccaneers[/SIZE]
Tampabaybuccaneers.com
1. WR: Jon Gruden thought he had his next Sterling Sharpe in Michael Clayton three years ago, but is still searching. Michigan State's Devin Thomas could be that guy. Antonio Bryant upgrades the Bucs' talent, but isn't guaranteed a roster spot.

2. DT: The Tampa 2 relies on pressure generated by the front four. Starting three-technique Jovan Haye (six sacks in 2007) is in a contract year. The Bucs have used mid-round picks on the likes of Julian Jenkins and Greg Peterson in the last two drafts. It's time for a high impact player.

3. CB: Eugene Wilson can play some corner and the Bucs have solid starters in Ronde Barber and Phillip Buchanon. But they need to start thinking about Barber's replacement. If the Bucs draft a cornerback, he'll have to excel in run support.

<!--RW-->

[SIZE=+1]NFC West[/SIZE]

Possibly football's worst division, the NFC West posted a combined record of 26-38 in 2007. Opponents outscored the four clubs by a combined 213 points. The Rams and Niners will try to regain respectability with new offensive coordinators. Arizona is desperate for depth at most positions and needs a good draft to push Seattle for the top spot in 2008.

[SIZE=+1]Arizona Cardinals[/SIZE]
arizonacardinals.com
1. CB: Eric Green is on a one-year deal and the Cards lost their nickel back by converting Antrel Rolle to safety. They're expected to draft a corner in the first round. Leodis McKelvin, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, and Mike Jenkins are candidates to be picked 16th.

2. RB: Edgerrin James has become a physically limited, vision-reliant runner. Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm need a power back.

3. DE: Behind [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4709"]Antonio Smith[/URL] and Darnell Dockett, the Cardinals lack anyone capable of playing end in their 3-4. Kentwan Balmer (North Carolina) and Kendall Langford (Hampton) are second-round prospects they should be eyeballing.

4. WR: The Cards could open the season with Jerheme Urban as their third option, but that isn't desirable. This draft is loaded with slot receiver types.

[SIZE=+1]Seattle Seahawks[/SIZE]

1. TE: Marcus Pollard wasn't the answer. Neither is Jeb Putzier. A tight end to stretch the seams would open running lanes and ease D.J. Hackett's loss. Seattle is deep enough to draft Dustin Keller in the first round, even though he may never be a three-down player.

2. PK: This is a terrible draft to enter without a kicker. Georgia's Brandon Coutu is the most talented and he'd be a reach before round seven.

3. OT: 34-year-old LT Walter Jones' shoulder will permanently give out at some point and the Seahawks haven't developed anyone behind him. If they take Keller in the first, the 'Hawks should consider Sam Baker (USC) or Tony Hills (Texas) before the end of day one.

[SIZE=+1]San Francisco 49ers[/SIZE]

1. OT: Jonas Jennings, penciled in at right tackle, is unlikely to hold up in Mike Martz's pass-first offense. Jennings' strength, when healthy, is power blocking. San Francisco needs more of a mirror-and-slide tackle with long arms like Gosder Cherilus (Boston College).

2. WR: Martz can transform mediocrity to money at this position, but wants a certain profile. Quick, light bodied wideouts with adequate long speed and route-running skill like Eddie Royal (Virginia Tech) will be on the Niners' radar after round one.

3. OLB: The 49ers have talent at the weak outside spot in Parys Haralson, Tully Banta-Cain, and possibly Jay Moore. But they could use an upgrade. If Cherilus is off the board at No. 29, Auburn's Quentin Groves will be considered.

[SIZE=+1]St. Louis Rams[/SIZE]

1. DE: Opposing quarterbacks will have all day against the Rams for the second straight season if they don't do something here. Leonard Little is 33, James Hall can't play anymore, and Victor Adeyanju is a two-down rotational piece.

2. WR: If Drew Bennett isn't any good as a third receiver, how is he supposed to fare as a No. 2? Torry Holt is 32 soon with suspect knees. This must be a priority early on draft day. No more Derek Stanleys.

3. SS: Corey Chavous is past his prime. The Rams need a strong safety that intimidates over the middle. Tyrell Johnson (Arkansas State) should be available for St. Louis in the second round if Kenny Phillips (Miami) isn't.

4. OT: LT Orlando Pace is only 32 and RT Alex Barron is a capable pass protector when he doesn't start before the whistle. But a third tackle is needed. The Rams could fill both holes in the trenches with their top two picks.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

2008 NFL Mock Draft

Despite reports late last week, it appears Ohio State rush end/linebacker Vernon Gholston is not negotiating a contract with Bill Parcells' Dolphins. Parcells has only entered serious conversations with Jake Long to this point. I wouldn't rule out Chris Long still being the pick, but it will come down to the player willing to take the cheapest contract. The top selection in 2008 is highly unlikely to sign a deal exceeding JaMarcus Russell's (six years, $61 million with $32 million guaranteed).

1. Dolphins - Michigan OT Jake Long
miamidolphins.com
Until contract talks break off (Bill Parcells has given Long a deadline to sign a deal), Michigan's road-grading left tackle is the clear favorite to be chosen first. Parcells loves players with great size, and at 6'7/315, Long fits the bill.

2. Rams - LSU DT Glenn Dorsey

Dorsey has arguably been the best player in the nation for the last year. His health concerns, which were made news by a St. Louis-based reporter, may be a smokescreen. Drafting Dorsey would allow the Rams to move Adam Carriker to end, instantly upgrading their bulk up front.

3. Falcons - USC DT Sedrick Ellis
atlantafalcons.com
With Trey Lewis (torn ACL) questionable for Week 1, the Falcons lack run stoppers on the interior. Ellis is a safe bet to be a Pro Bowl-caliber player, and with so many needs, Atlanta won't take big risks. Due to a huge dropoff after Dorsey and Ellis, the top two defensive tackles will go quick.

4. Oakland - UVA DE/OLB Chris Long
WEBSITE.WS - Your Internet Address For Life?
Al Davis is desperate for a postseason push. Long can make a surefire impact against both the run and the pass. Being Howie's son is especially reassuring. The Raiders could put Long at right end and move Derrick Burgess to the weak side, where he'd be run on less frequently.

5. Kansas City - Boise State LT Ryan Clady
kansascitychiefs.com
The Chiefs are incorporating zone-blocking concepts into their run-heavy offense and Clady's athleticism is ideal for that system. Slotting Branden Albert here is a nice thought, but the Chiefs probably aren't that creative.

6. New York (AFC) - Ohio State DE/OLB Vernon Gholston
newyorkjets.com
The addition of Calvin Pace makes outside linebacker a less obvious need, but Bryan Thomas is coming off a poor season and Pace could be used like Adalius Thomas as an inside/outside linebacker hybrid. The Jets can't let Gholston's outrageous talent fall to the Pats at No. 7.

7. New England - Virginia OL Branden Albert

Aside from Darren McFadden, who is not believed to be on New England's radar, Albert may be the player with the highest ceiling left on the board. Albert can play four positions on the offensive line and could eventually replace Matt Light at left tackle.

8. Baltimore - Boston College QB Matt Ryan
baltimoreravens.com
The Ravens are doing a good job pretending their quarterback situation isn't dire. There's no way Baltimore's new coaching staff could like what it's seen on tape of Steve McNair.

9. Cincinnati - Illinois RB Rashard Mendenhall

The Bengals' biggest problems were on the other side of the ball last year, but they took steps to improve there by signing DE Antwan Odom. LB Odell Thurman will likely be welcomed back from suspension. Mendenhall has no character concerns, which is a big plus for Cincinnati.

10. New Orleans - Troy CB Leodis McKelvin

After Mike McKenzie, there isn't a proven starting cornerback on the Saints' roster, and McKenzie is rehabbing a torn ACL. McKelvin comes from an unheralded college program, but is NFL ready.

11. Buffalo - Michigan State WR Devin Thomas
buffalobills.com
The Bills have no problem "reaching" to fill a need. Thomas gives them a big (6'2/217), run after the catch threat to play opposite Lee Evans. He has Anquan Boldin-like characteristics with better straight-line speed.

12. Denver - Arkansas RB Darren McFadden

A dream scenario for Mike Shanahan, but it's more realistic because of McFadden's character flags. The Broncos are willing to take risks on those types and have seemingly realized their mistake of signing Travis Henry. There's also a pretty good chance that if McFadden gets by the Jets, a team will swoop in before No. 12 to take him. But we're not forecasting trades here.

13. Carolina - Florida DE Derrick Harvey
carolinapanthers.com
Harvey and Phillip Merling are the only clearly starting caliber 4-3 defensive end prospects left on the board. Harvey is a far superior pass rusher. This is more of a need than left tackle for the Panthers and they still get exceptional value.

14. Chicago - Pittsburgh OT Jeff Otah

Whether he's playing the left or right, Otah (6'6/336) is everything the Bears want in an offensive tackle. They'll have to look at power running backs like Matt Forte or possibly Kevin Smith in the next two rounds.

15. Detroit - Oregon RB Jonathan Stewart
detroitlions.com
Tatum Bell is kidding himself if he thinks the Lions are heading to the season with him as their feature back. If Stewart or Mendenhall slips to 15, Detroit shouldn't hesitate. Coach Rod Marinelli wants to use his second-round pick on a linebacker.

<!--RW-->

16. Arizona - South Florida CB Mike Jenkins
arizonacardinals.com
Jenkins would give the Cardinals a cornerback to challenge contract-year starter Eric Green, possibly play the nickel, and contribute in the return game. Arizona would be in big trouble if Green or Roderick Hood got hurt and Ralph Brown was forced to start.

17. Minnesota - Clemson DE Phillip Merling
minnesotavikings.com
Merling is recovering from sports hernia surgery and may only be a disruptive force on early downs as a rookie. But the Vikings can't be choosy at such a massive need spot, especially with Brian Robison (4.5 sacks/five starts as a rookie) available to nickel rush. Merling could move inside to spell Pat Williams on third downs, giving the Vikes a formidable pass rushing upgrade.

18. Houston - Vanderbilt LT Chris Williams

The Texans understand how hard it is to find a quality left tackle (see Seth Wand, Charles Spencer) and can fill a major need on Matt Schaub's blind side with Williams, who's well worth the pick. Williams needs to beef up, but possesses ideal athleticism to zone block and can mirror and slide with quick defensive ends.

19. Philadelphia - Kansas CB Aqib Talib

Assuming the Birds deal Lito Sheppard -- which is expected -- they'll need another corner to play behind Asante Samuel and Sheldon Brown. Talib must polish his technique, but has the size to match up with big receivers in the division like Plaxico Burress and Terrell Owens.

20. Tampa Bay - Virginia Tech CB Brandon Flowers
Tampabaybuccaneers.com
The Bucs appear to be opening their left cornerback spot to competition. A rugged, physical tackler like Flowers makes sense here. Assuming they don't swing trades, Philadelphia and Tampa Bay can wait until the second and third rounds to target big wideouts with passable starters in place.

21. Washington - Texas WR Limas Sweed
washingtonredskins.com
Sweed isn't your prototypical West Coast wideout, but he's closer than anyone else on Washington's roster. The flashy, confident senior would play split end in Jim Zorn's offense. Santana Moss will likely move to Deion Branch's flanker spot with Antwaan Randle El becoming Zorn's younger, speedier version of Bobby Engram.

22. Dallas - Tennessee State CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

DRC has become a little overrated during a stellar offseason. While he's an exceptional talent, offensive coordinators didn't game plan around him in even the Ohio Valley and those amazing ball skills brought Rodgers-Cromartie only two picks as a senior. Like his cousin, DRC needs a year as a sub-package corner before he's counted on for significant NFL snaps.

23. Pittsburgh - North Carolina DL Kentwan Balmer

Balmer would be a slight reach at No. 23, something Pittsburgh isn't known for doing. But the Steelers have a serious depth need behind two-gap ends Brett Keisel and Aaron Smith, who's coming off a biceps tear and just turned 32. At 6'5/308, Balmer is made to play end in the 3-4.

24. Tennessee - USC DE Lawrence Jackson
tennesseetitans.com
Jevon Kearse isn't going to get it done as an every-down replacement for 2007's combination of Travis LaBoy and Antwan Odom, who both left in free agency. Jackson had an up-and-down college career and needs to play in a rotation as a rookie.

25. Seattle - USC OLB Keith Rivers

We saw it with Lance Briggs at the start of free agency; 4-3 outside linebackers that don't rush the passer just aren't that valued in the NFL. Rivers will be a highly productive pro, but it'll be a big surprise if he goes in the top ten like some are predicting.

26. Jacksonville - Miami (FL) S Kenny Phillips
jacksonvillejaguars.com
It's hard to imagine the Jaguars counting on Gerald Sensabaugh to start at strong safety considering he's coming off surgery on both shoulders. Phillips has experience at the free safety position as well, so if the Jags need to move Reggie Nelson to corner at some point, they'd have options.

27. San Diego - Boston College RT Gosder Cherilus
sandiegochargers.com
The Chargers plan to move current starting right tackle Jeromey Clary to guard when Mike Goff's contract expires in 2009. Cherilus protected Matt Ryan's blind side as a senior, but is a natural on the opposite end.

28. Dallas - California WR DeSean Jackson

The Cowboys have never seemed satisfied with Miles Austin on kick returns. Jackson would be a speed upgrade there and learn behind Terry Glenn for a few games before replacing him in the starting lineup down the stretch.

29. San Francisco - Auburn OLB Quentin Groves

The Niners aren't concerned about Groves' recent heart procedure, which is expected to make him healthier in the long run. San Francisco is desperate for a weak-side pass rush.

30. Green Bay - Arizona CB Antoine Cason
greenbaypackers.com
GM Ted Thompson loves big corners and Cason meets the profile at 6'1/190. The 2007 Jim Thorpe Award winner has few flaws in his game. Al Harris and Charles Woodson are getting old.

31. New York (NFC) - Tennessee LB Jerod Mayo
NY Giants
The Giants would be fine entering the season with Gerris Wilkinson on the weak side, but he needs more competition than Danny Clark. Mayo (6'1/242) can also play inside. Giants MLB Antonio Pierce turns 30 this season and Chase Blackburn isn't a long-term option behind him.

Notably left out: Arkansas RB Felix Jones, Penn State LB Dan Connor, Louisville QB Brian Brohm, Michigan QB Chad Henne, Purdue TE Dustin Keller, Delaware QB Joe Flacco, Miami (FL) DE Calais Campbell, Oklahoma LB Curtis Lofton, Michigan WR Mario Manningham, USC TE Fred Davis

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Risers and Fallers


With the 2008 NFL Draft just a week and a half away, here's a look at players who have recently seen their stock rise and fall.

Risers

Vernon Gholston DE Ohio State ? Between his outstanding Combine and Pro Day workouts, Gholston has seen his stock skyrocket and is a lock for the Top 6. He could potentially go at #4 to Oakland or as high as #1 or #2 to Miami or St. Louis. Gholston is by far the best pass rusher in this year's draft.

Glenn Dorsey DT LSU ? Coming into his Pro Day workout Dorsey's stock had taken a bit of a hit because of the lingering injury questions. Since his great workout he's seen his stock rise and is looking like he could go #2 to St. Louis or #3 to Atlanta.

Branden Albert OG Virginia ? Albert's stock is on fire right now. Teams continue to watch tape on him and like what they're seeing. He has the size and athleticism to play both guard and tackle at the next level which is what teams like so much about him. He could go as high as #5 to Kansas City or #7 to New England.

Jerod Mayo LB Tennessee ? Mayo is another player whose stock is really rising. Scouts love his versatility, being capable of playing both inside and outside linebacker. Mayo is looking like a lock for the mid-late 1st Round right now and could potentially go as high as #15 to Detroit.

Jonathan Stewart RB Oregon ? Despite his recent toe surgery, scouts have kept him towards the top of their boards. Stewart showed responsibility in taking care of the surgery now so that he'll be capable of being back in time for training camp. Stewart is another player who could go to Detroit at #15.

Derrick Harvey DE Florida ? There are more teams that want Derrick Harvey than I have seen in awhile. The Panthers, Lions, and Vikings are all clear targets for Harvey as they could all use a natural pass rusher like Harvey. For Minnesota to get him, they would likely have to trade up to at least #12 with Denver. Harvey is a lock to be a Top 15 pick right now.

Quentin Groves DE Auburn ? Groves was one of the top performers at the Combine and it's really beginning to show right now. Before the Combine he was being projected as an Early-Mid 2nd Round pick; now he's expected to be a Mid-Late 1st Rounder. The Steelers at #23 seem like a logical fit while the 49ers at #29 are also interested in his services.

Fallers

Adarius Bowman WR Oklahoma ? No player in this year's draft has hurt his stock as much as Bowman has. A poor performance at the Senior Bowl, a non-workout at the Combine due to recent Lasik eye surgery, and an arrest for marijuana possession could potentially drop Bowman from a 2nd or 3rd Round pick to an undrafted free agent.

Malcolm Kelly WR Oklahoma ? Kelly's "whining" as some scouts would put it really did not help him this past week. His 4.65 40-yard dash time was below-average, and that's after complaining about not running on the right type of surface. Kelly is not a sure 2nd Round pick now and could even fall to the 3rd Round.

Phillip Merling DE Clemson ? A sports hernia surgery along with not working out at the Combine is surely not going to help your draft stock. Merling seemed like a lock for the Vikings at #17 Overall, however he could now fall into the Late-1st or even Early-2nd Round.

Mario Manningham WR Michigan ? The former Michigan receiver as seen his stock drop considerably as of late. The fact that he lied to coaches and scouts at the Combine clearly was not a smart decision. Manningham is now being projected as a Mid-Late 2nd Round pick.

Other Notes

The Chiefs are very high on USC defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. Don't be surprised if they strongly consider taking him with the #5 pick in the draft.

Cincinnati feels that they need to land one of Glenn Dorsey, Sedrick Ellis, and Keith Rivers. If they are not able to do so, they may consider trading down

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Questions in the Top Ten

1. Miami Dolphins - How Long should the Dolphins wait to turn in their pick?

As quickly as possible, please. Day one of the draft starts at 3PM ET and is projected to last until 11. Ideally, it'll be over with a few hours left before (piano) bar time. Right, Darren McFadden?

2. St. Louis Rams - Can Adam Carriker move to defensive end full time?

If the Rams feel he can, they'll likely take Glenn Dorsey. New VP of personnel Billy Devaney is pushing for Chris Long, while defensive coordinator Jim Haslett wants the draft's consensus top defensive tackle. There is debate in the building about whether Carriker can move outside and be effective.

The Rams will probably overlook their history of missing on interior defensive linemen (Jimmy Kennedy/Damione Lewis) and go with Dorsey. Carriker wouldn't project as a 10-12 sack per season type player at his college position, but he'd be a huge upgrade against the run. Improving that area on defense needs to be St. Louis' priority.

3. Atlanta Falcons - How does new GM Thomas Dimitroff want to build his franchise?

Dimitroff comes from the Bill Belichick/Scott Pioli lineage. The Patriots build from the line out. Of course, Atlanta needs a franchise quarterback. With so many draft picks at their disposal, the Falcons could trade back into the late first round for a QB like Brian Brohm. But Matt Ryan is surely a strong consideration at No. 3.

4. Oakland Raiders - Is Darren McFadden's potential too much for Al Davis to pass up?

How about Vernon Gholston's potential? He's got a little upside, too. And with Jay Richardson, an underachiever from Ohio State, penciled in as a starter, Oakland has a glaring need at right defensive end.

Davis is really old, but he still understands drafting for need. The Raiders took Michael Huff over Matt Leinart in 2006 because they had Andrew Walter and JaMarcus Russell over Calvin Johnson last year after realizing Walter wasn't the answer. McFadden would not fill a need, especially in line coach Tom Cable's system, which gets production from average players.

5. Kansas City Chiefs - How many starting offensive linemen does K.C. believe it has?

1 - Damion McIntosh, but not at left tackle; 2 - Guard Brian Waters, though he may have to move to center. Then it's a rag-tag crew of Anthony Alabi, Herbert Taylor, Will Svitek, Tre Stallings, Wade and Rob Smith, and Rudy Niswanger.

The Chiefs traded Jared Allen, but that doesn't necessarily mean they must target a replacement at defensive end at No. 5. There are still high hopes for Turk McBride and Tamba Hali. However, they'll definitely need to get some depth there at some point.

6. New York Jets - Can the winner of a Chad Pennington-Kellen Clemens training camp battle win games in 2008?

Seeing as they spent about $150 million during the free agency period, the Jets clearly aren't looking to develop a top pick for the future. They'll probably draft whichever prospect GM Mike Tannenbaum and coach Eric Mangini think can help the most immediately. That just about rules out Matt Ryan, but also means the Jets are counting on a quarterback tandem that combined for a 15-19 touchdown to interception ratio in 2007.

7. New England Patriots - Who is the best player left on the board?

It's all about BPA for the Pats. New England could use its first-round pick on any position save kicker, quarterback, and long snapper. If a coveted marquee player like McFadden falls, the Patriots might also entertain trading down.

8. Baltimore Ravens - Can Samari Rolle be a reliable starting cornerback?

Rolle, who turns 32 in August, has epilepsy. He's been cleared medically, but played only six games last year and Baltimore has been unable to develop young corners behind him. If the Ravens think Rolle's career can be salvaged, they could opt for Ryan. If the Ravens come to the realization that Rolle shouldn't be more than a nickel back any longer, they figure to target Leodis McKelvin.

9. Cincinnati Bengals - Can the Bengals count on a bulked up Rudi Johnson and healthy Chris Perry?

Coach Marvin Lewis knows he can't rely on Kenny Irons, whose recovery from a torn ACL is behind schedule. Rudi added 10-15 pounds over the winter and is past his hamstring troubles from 2007. The team likes what it's seen from Perry in the offseason conditioning program. But he's played in only six games since 2005. DeDe Dorsey and Kenny Watson remain on the roster. No. 9 might be too high for Rashard Mendenhall, but it's getting to be time for the Bengals to turn the page at tailback.

10. New Orleans Saints - Is Glenn Dorsey worth trading up for?

The Saints have been in conversations with the Rams about moving up to the second spot. But New Orleans is believed to have lowballed St. Louis with its first offer. The Rams won't want to lose a chance at Dorsey, Chris Long, or Gholston, but if the Saints step up, St. Louis could set its sights on Florida DE Derrick Harvey. New Orleans could also try to get to No. 3 or 4 to grab Sedrick Ellis if Dorsey becomes a Ram.

Prospective Draft Weekend Developments to Watch for

1. Rams send their second-round pick (No. 33 overall) to Eagles for Lito Sheppard.
2. Using Jason Taylor and another pick, Dolphins move back into last half of the first round for Chad Henne.
3. Ravens sit tight and still get Matty Ice.
4. Fabian Washington goes to the Browns for a fifth-round pick.
5. Kevin Boss is still Jeremy Shockey's backup on April 28.
6. Packers acquire Charlie Whitehurst to be Aaron Rodgers' backup for a fourth-round pick.
7. Broncos draft Jalen Parmele at some point on the draft's second day.
8. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL] is still a Lion and [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] is still a Bengal late Sunday night, but Anquan Boldin is traded to Dallas.
9. Matt Forte becomes the favorite to start at running back in Chicago when he's made the Bears' second-round pick (No. 44 overall).
10. Tim "Tom" Tebow is not the Chiefs' first-round pick.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Mid-term NFC Draft Grades

These are mid-term grades. The final grades will be in by Sunday night.
Arizona Cardinals
Grade: B
arizonacardinals.com
The Cards didn't give in to trade inquires about Anquan Boldin and secured two players with exceptional upside in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie at No. 16 and Calais Campbell at No. 50. Both players fit their scheme, although neither may have an instant impact.

Atlanta Falcons
Grade: C
atlantafalcons.com
Atlanta reached to fill needs with Matt Ryan at No. 3 and USC tackle Sam Baker at No. 21, surrendering two second-rounders to Washington to acquire Baker. They probably could've had him at No. 34. Oklahoma ILB Curtis Lofton was a strong pick.

Carolina Panthers
Grade: C
carolinapanthers.com
The Panthers have to like what they came away with (Jonathan Stewart and Jeff Otah), but giving up a 2009 first-round pick, a second-rounder, and a fourth-rounder was a bit much. Still, these players are pretty close to sure things and will help immediately.

Chicago Bears
Grade: B-

Matt Forte, who Chicago tabbed at No. 44, will probably replace Cedric Benson as a starter in 2008. Chris Williams shores up the blind side, although he needs to add strength. The Bears still need a quarterback.

Dallas Cowboys
Grade: B

In a small surprise, the Cowboys went with Felix Jones over Rashard Mendenhall at No. 22. They got an excellent cover corner in Mike Jenkins, but parted with two picks to move up three spots for him. Martellus Bennett should prove to be a more explosive backup for Jason Witten than Anthony Fasano.

Detroit Lions
Grade: C-
detroitlions.com
The Lions moved down two spots in the first and still got their right tackle (Gosder Cherilus). But Tatum Bell is still their starting running back and that is a problem. Second-rounder Jordon Dizon has potential, but at 6'0/226 probably won't help against the run. The defensive line still stinks.

Green Bay Packers
Grade: A-
greenbaypackers.com
The Packers used their usual best-player-available strategy with each pick, from No. 37 (Jordy Nelson) to No. 56 (Brian Brohm), and came away with a solid cornerback prospect (Auburn's Patrick Lee) at the end of the second round. GM Ted Thompson knows what he's doing.

Minnesota Vikings
Grade: C
minnesotavikings.com
The Vikings' first-round pick went towards Jared Allen. They sent their second- and fourth-round picks to Philadelphia to nab Tyrell Johnson at No. 43. Presumably, defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier is confident he can teach Johnson how to cover. They did get a fifth-rounder back in that deal.

New Orleans Saints
Grade: B+

The price tag wasn't too much for New Orleans to move up three spots in the first round and grab a coveted defensive tackle (Sedrick Ellis). In a draft that has only two surefire studs at the position, that was a sound move. Tracy Porter of Indiana at No. 40 was a steal. No Lito Sheppard or Jeremy Shockey, though.

New York Giants
Grade: B
NY Giants
New York kept Jeremy Shockey and came away with two physical defensive backs ? Terrell Thomas and Kenny Phillips. Phillips has great upside and could be an immediate starter. Thomas isn't a strong bet to be more than a nickel guy.

Philadelphia Eagles
Grade: A+

By trading out of the 19th spot, the Birds picked up a first-rounder in next year's draft. They also took an explosive first-round talent (DeSean Jackson) at No. 47 overall. Notre Dame DT Trevor Laws, who Philadelphia got 47th, has a motor that never stops running.

San Francisco 49ers
Grade: C

The Niners took two projects (Chilo Rachal and Kentwan Balmer) with their top picks. Rachal was a need pick after RG David Baas underwent surgery for a torn pectorals, but neither is a sure bet to be a solid starter. Both were boom-or-bust picks for a team that wasn't very good last year.

Seattle Seahawks
Grade: B-

Seattle picked up fifth- and seventh-rounders from Dallas to move down three spots in the first round. There they grabbed DE Lawrence Jackson in a value move. TE John Carlson (at No. 38) is ready to start.

St. Louis Rams
Grade: D

The Rams got a good player and filled a need with Chris Long, but went against their draft board to get him. They then reached for Houston wideout Donnie Avery, a raw projected third-rounder who may not be ready to do more than return kicks, with the No. 33 overall pick. It doesn't get much worse.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Grade: C+
Tampabaybuccaneers.com
Aqib Talib was a fine gamble at No. 20 overall, but the Bucs stretched for Appalachian State [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4723"]Dexter Jackson[/URL] in a major way. Devin Thomas, the Michigan State wideout, should've been a strong consideration in place of Talib.

Washington Redskins
Grade: B-
washingtonredskins.com
The Redskins secured three weapons for Jason Campbell ? Fred Davis, Malcolm Kelly, and Devin Thomas. But really, how much is Davis going to help? They could've at least used a pick to help one of their thin lines

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Mid-Term AFC Grades
What's sillier than giving an NFL team a draft grade before the players ever hit the field. How about a draft grade midway through the actual draft. What follows is our take of Day one of the NFL Draft. We will be updating the column with our final grades on Sunday night.


Baltimore Ravens
Grade: B
baltimoreravens.com
This draft will forever be known as the Joe Flacco draft. If he's a quality pro, it was a huge success. It will be a failure if he turns into Kyle Boller, another workout wonder who climbed up draft boards. Cam Cameron loves Flacco, so he gets our benefit of the doubt. The Ravens get extra points for working the draft board, picking up picking up extra third and fourth-round picks from moves from eight to 26 and back to 18. Ray Rice adds value as a dynamic backup.

Buffalo Bills
Grade: B
buffalobills.com
Buffalo knows how to find hard-nosed defensive backs. They nabbed Donte Whitner a few years back, and Leodis McKelvin is a similarly tough-minded tackler who will remind Bills fans of Antoine Winfield. Getting the top cornerback at pick eleven is a plus. The Bills filled another need by taking physical wideout James Hardy in the second round. They needed size, but there more consistent wideouts on the board.

Cincinnati Bengals
Grade: C

Cincy had to be disappointed with how the top of the draft went. Keith Rivers fits their defense well, but they wanted Sedrick Ellis. Then they took a project out of Coastal Carolina (Jerome Simpson) when seasoned receivers remained on the board. They better hope [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] shows up by Week 1 because Simpson needs time to adapt to the NFL.

Cleveland Browns
Grade: A ?
clevelandbrowns.com
Sure they didn't actually select anyone Saturday. But Brady Quinn and Corey Williams are a pretty good haul for the first two rounds.

Denver Broncos
Grade: B+

Denver did a great job finding need players that fit their scheme. They had to be thrilled the second best tackle in the draft was still on the board in Ryan Clady. He fits their zone scheme better than Jake Long would anyway. Eddie Royal has extra value on returns and could develop as a rugged complement to Brandon Marshall in the mold of Ed McCaffrey.

Houston Texans
Grade: B-

A lot of people will kill the Texans for "reaching" for Duane Brown, but they are looking for different qualities in offensive line. The Godfather of zone blocking Alex Gibbs was recently hired and fell in love with the athletic upside of the kid. Still, we give Houston credit for picking up a third and sixth-round pick by moving down and selecting the guy they wanted all along.

Indianapolis Colts
Grade: B
indianapoliscolts.com
No one plans ahead and drafts better for need than Bill Polian. His selection of the best technician in the draft, Mike Pollak, is a good indication that Jeff Saturday is nearing the end of the line. For now, Pollak can play guard.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Grade: C-
jacksonvillejaguars.com
The Jaguars paid an enormous bounty to move up for Derrick Harvey, a guy with inconsistent production at Florida. Giving up their first-rounder and three mid-round picks was a case of falling in love with one player too much. Second-rounder Quentin Groves is a good pass rusher, but was taken off some teams' boards because of character concerns.

Kansas City Chiefs
Grade: A
kansascitychiefs.com
King Carl Peterson usually takes a roasting in the press, with good reason. But he'll have his day in the sun after snagging Glenn Dorsey, Branden Albert, and Brandon Flowers. Kansas City needed a huge draft after losing Jared Allen and they got off to a great start. They turned down a monster deal from New Orleans to take the best player in the draft (Dorsey) and got hard-nosed players at good values at the other spots.

Miami Dolphins
Grade: A-
miamidolphins.com
Great meat and potatoes draft. Jake Long better be a true dominator at left tackle, but Miami seems confident he won't need to play on the right side. Philip Merling and Chad Henne represent fantastic values in the second round. Merling is a perfect fit for a 3-4 defense, while Henne is a strong-armed alternative to John Beck before long.

New England Patriots
Grade: A-

The Patriots always value players a little differently than others. That was true in their selections of Jerod Mayo and Terrence Wheatley Saturday, but they always take players who are intelligent and versatile. Mayo is an instinctive inside linebacker, a position they desperately needed some youth at. Wheatley has a similar profile coming out of school to Asante Samuel. They now have three third-round picks after moving down to the tenth spot.

New York Jets
Grade: B
newyorkjets.com
Vernon Gholston is a prototype 3-4 OLB, but his inconsistent effort won't fly in New York. The Jets needed another playmaker on offense, and choose Dustin Keller over any wide receiver. He reminds us a lot of Ben Watson. Solid haul for New York, but they traded away yet another draft pick, just like last year.

Oakland Raiders
Grade: D+
oaklandraiders.com
Passing on Glenn Dorsey could haunt them for years. Running backs, especially in a zone scheme like Oakland's, are too easy to find to invest a number four pick on. Especially when they are likely to split carries. He better be [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] or the pick doesn't work.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Grade: B+

Willie Parker's fantasy owners may disagree, but the Steelers did well to go best player available in the first two rounds. They still need a lot of help on their lines, but ReShard Mendenhall is a true three-down back, and Limas Sweed was our favorite physical receiver in the draft. Pittsburgh's fine history of drafting helps win our favor here.

San Diego Chargers
Grade: C
sandiegochargers.com
We love Antoine Cason as a physical cornerback to step in and play nickel back right away, eventually going into the starting lineup. The low grade is for dealing away way too many picks last year for Eric Weddle. San Diego doesn't have another pick until round five.

Tennessee Titans
Grade: C-
tennesseetitans.com
Tennessee has drafted a running back early in three straight drafts. While it's good to admit a mistake on [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] (last year's bust), they are taking a similar workout wonder in East Carolina's [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL]. We like Johnson far better (he's great on third downs), but that's a high pick for a role player. They took another high upside/big risk player in Jason Jones, whom many thought would fit better in a 3-4 defense.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Final NFC Draft Grades

Arizona Cardinals
Grade: B
arizonacardinals.com
The Cards didn't give in to trade inquires about Anquan Boldin and secured two players with exceptional upside in Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie at No. 16 and Calais Campbell at No. 50. Both players fit their scheme, although neither may have an instant impact. LSU's Early Doucet (No. 81 overall) can as a third receiver. Iowa's Kenny Iwebema will have to learn to two gap in Arizona's 3-4. Richmond RB Tim Hightower and Northern Iowa OL Chad Rinehart are projects.

Atlanta Falcons
Grade: C-
atlantafalcons.com
Atlanta reached to fill needs with Matt Ryan at No. 3 and USC tackle Sam Baker at No. 21, surrendering two second-rounders to Washington to acquire Baker. They probably could've had him at No. 34. Oklahoma ILB Curtis Lofton was a strong pick. LSU CB Chevis Jackson and Cal SS Thomas DeCoud could start right away. Georgia RB Thomas Brown will be no higher than third on the depth chart behind Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood. Arizona State LB Robert James is only 5'11/219 and won't be more than a special teamer at this level. Louisville WR Harry Douglas is a quick prospect for the slot. The Falcons did not come out of the draft with a defensive tackle.

Carolina Panthers
Grade: B-
carolinapanthers.com
The Panthers have to like what they came away with (Jonathan Stewart and Jeff Otah) on day one, but giving up a 2009 first-round pick, a second-rounder, and a fourth-rounder was a bit much. Still, these players are pretty close to sure things and will help immediately. Third-round Iowa CB Charles Godfrey will convert to free safety. Penn State LB Dan Connor was a tremendous value in round three. Louisville TE Gary Barnidge could compete to start once he bulks up. Wisconsin's Nick Hayden is a try-hard defensive tackle.

Chicago Bears
Grade: B

Matt Forte, who Chicago tabbed at No. 44, will probably replace Cedric Benson as a starter in 2008. Chris Williams shores up the blind side, but must add strength. The Bears still need a quarterback and passed on Andre Woodson of Kentucky on multiple occasions. Marcus Monk (Arkansas) and Earl Bennett (Vanderbilt) give Chicago some credibility at wideout. Bennett could start in Week 1. Michigan State TE Kellen Davis, Nebraska CB Zackary Bowman, and Arkansas DT Marcus Harrison were upside picks.

Dallas Cowboys
Grade: B

In a small surprise, the Cowboys went with Felix Jones over Rashard Mendenhall at No. 22. They got an excellent cover corner in Mike Jenkins, but parted with two picks to move up three spots for him. Martellus Bennett should prove to be a more explosive backup for Jason Witten than Anthony Fasano. Georgia Tech RB Tashard Choice has an impressive resume and adds insurance behind contract-year starter Marion Barber. Boise State CB Orlando Scandrick can fly. Middle Tennessee State DE Erik Walden will convert to outside linebacker.

Detroit Lions
Grade: C-
detroitlions.com
The Lions moved down two spots in the first and still got their right tackle (Gosder Cherilus). But Tatum Bell is still their starting running back and that is a problem. Third-rounder Kevin Smith will compete, but was overworked at Central Florida. Second-rounder Jordon Dizon has potential, but at 6'0/226 probably won't help against the run. Purdue DE Cliff Avril (No. 92) and Florida State DT Andre Fluellen (No. 87) can rush the passer. Fifth-rounder Kenneth Moore will be no more than a slot receiver in the NFL. Detroit already has two of those in Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald.

Green Bay Packers
Grade: A-
greenbaypackers.com
GM Ted Thompson knows what he's doing. The Packers used their usual best-player-available strategy at No. 36 (Jordy Nelson) and No. 56 (Brian Brohm), and came away with a solid cornerback prospect (Auburn's Patrick Lee) at the end of the second round. Porter is experienced in press-man coverage. Third-round TE Jermichael Finley can stretch the field. Jeremy Thompson should replace Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila as a situational pass rusher by 2010. LSU QB Matt Flynn, who the Packers nabbed in round seven, was a worthwhile investment that late with uncertainty at quarterback.

Minnesota Vikings
Grade: C+
minnesotavikings.com
The Vikings' first-round pick went towards Jared Allen. They sent their second- and fourth-round picks to Philadelphia to nab Tyrell Johnson at No. 43. Presumably, defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier is confident he can teach Johnson how to cover. They did get a fifth-rounder back in that deal and used it on underrated DT Letroy Guion. USC QB John David Booty was a robbery in the fifth round. He can develop into a solid starter and alternative to Tarvaris Jackson. Notre Dame C John Sullivan is Matt Birk's possible successor in 2009.

New Orleans Saints
Grade: B+

The price tag wasn't too much for New Orleans to move up three spots in the first round and grab a coveted defensive tackle (Sedrick Ellis). In a draft that has only two surefire studs at the position, that was a sound move. Tracy Porter of Indiana at No. 40 was a steal. The Saints couldn't land Lito Sheppard or Jeremy Shockey, but got a possible 2009 replacement for Jon Stinchcomb at right tackle in Nebraska's Carl Nicks. Taylor Mehlhaff figures to beat out Martin Gramatica to start at kicker. Michigan WR Adrian Arrington was worth dealing up for in the seventh round. He is a fine possession prospect.

New York Giants
Grade: B+
NY Giants
New York kept Jeremy Shockey and came away with two physical defensive backs ? Terrell Thomas and Kenny Phillips. Phillips has great upside and could be an immediate starter. Thomas isn't a strong bet to be more than a nickel guy. Michigan WR Mario Manningham, Kentucky QB Andre Woodson, and BYU LB Bryan Kehl were all arguably the best players available where the Giants got them. Manningham has All Pro potential if he can keep his head on straight. Second-year GM Jerry Reese continues his success.

Philadelphia Eagles
Grade: A

By trading out of the 19th spot, the Birds picked up a first-rounder in next year's draft. They also took an explosive first-round talent (DeSean Jackson) at No. 47 overall. Notre Dame DT Trevor Laws, who Philadelphia got 47th, has a motor that never stops running. Wisconsin DB Jack Ikegwuonu has starting potential, but is coming off a torn ACL. Linebacker picks Bryan Smith, Joe Mays, and Andy Studebaker may only be special teamers. You name the player and fourth-round S Quintin Demps can run with him.

San Francisco 49ers
Grade: C-

The Niners took two projects (Chilo Rachal and Kentwan Balmer) with their top picks. Rachal was a need pick after RG David Baas underwent surgery for a torn pectorals, but neither is a sure bet to be a solid starter. Both were boom-or-bust risks for a team that won five games last year. The 49ers hope third-rounder Reggie Smith can play corner, but he may lack the speed to excel there. Virginia Tech WR Josh Morgan and Ohio State LB Larry Grant are almost strictly special teams prospects. C Cody Wallace will be a backup.

Seattle Seahawks
Grade: B

Seattle picked up fifth- and seventh-rounders from Dallas to move down three spots in the first round. There they grabbed DE Lawrence Jackson in a value move. TE John Carlson (at No. 38) is ready to start. Texas A&M DT Red Bryant is a mammoth run-stopper at 6'5/328. West Virginia FB Owen Schmitt could make Leonard Weaver expendable. Drafting a long snapper without position versatility (Tyler Schmitt ? no relation to Owen) was odd, but Georgia's Brandon Coutu was the best kicker in the draft.

St. Louis Rams
Grade: D+

The Rams got a good player and filled a need with Chris Long, but went against their draft board to get him. They then reached for Houston wideout Donnie Avery, a raw projected third-rounder who may not be ready to do more than return kicks, with the No. 33 overall pick. John Greco of Toledo is a fine tackle prospect in terms of pass protection. Kentucky WR Keenan Burton is injury prone. CB Justin King is raw and may be a workout wonder. Tulsa S Chris Chamberlain is another "measurables" pick. Idaho LB David Vobora is this year's Mr. Irrelevant.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Grade: C
Tampabaybuccaneers.com
Aqib Talib was a fine gamble at No. 20 overall, but the Bucs stretched for Appalachian State [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4723"]Dexter Jackson[/URL] in a major way. Devin Thomas, the Michigan State wideout, should've been a strong consideration in place of Talib. Rutgers OL Jeremy Zuttah was a pure depth pick in the third round. San Diego Josh Johnson was a fine value in the fifth round, but Jon Gruden is not an experienced developer of quarterbacks and already has five of them. Florida State LB Geno Hayes is not adept in coverage, a big drawback for coordinator Monte Kiffin's Tampa 2 scheme. Seventh-round RB Cory Boyd probably won't make the roster.

Washington Redskins
Grade: B-
washingtonredskins.com
The Redskins secured three weapons for Jason Campbell ? Fred Davis, Malcolm Kelly, and Devin Thomas. But really, how much is Davis going to help? Sixth-rounder Durant Brooks was the best punter this year (and the only one drafted). Late-round DBs Chris Horton and Kareem Moore will push Reed Doughty to start at strong safety. Iowa OT Chad Rinehart plays with power. Sixth-round QB Colt Brennan has exceptional accuracy, but will likely spend his rookie season on injured reserve.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Final AFC Grades

We gave mid-term grades Saturday night, and now the final unfair evaluation of a draft class three years too early are ready.


We'll be back with all the fantasy angles and rookie rankings later this week.

Baltimore Ravens
Grade: B
baltimoreravens.com
This draft will forever be the Joe Flacco draft. If the Delaware quarterback turns into a quality pro, it was a huge success. It will be a failure if he turns into Kyle Boller, another workout wonder who climbed up draft boards. The Ravens get extra points for picking up extra selections by trading back. Ray Rice adds value as a dynamic backup. On the second day, new coach John Harbaugh gets points for adding a crew of hard-nosed types in UTEP G Oniel Cousins, Notre Dame S Tom Zbikowski, and Miami LB Tavares Goodman, who has great physical skills.

Buffalo Bills
Grade: B-
buffalobills.com
Buffalo knows how to find hard-nosed defensive backs. They nabbed safety Donte Whitner a few years back, and now they have Leodis McKelvin - a similarly tough-minded tackler. Getting the top cornerback at pick eleven is a plus. The Bills needed playmakers, but their choices of wide receiver James Hardy and tight end Derrick Fine raised eyebrows. There were more dynamic and consistent players available at each position when Buffalo selected them.

Cincinnati Bengals
Grade: C+

Cincy must have been disappointed with how the top of the draft went. Linebacker Keith Rivers fits their defense well, but they wanted his former teammate, defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis. Then they took a project out of Coastal Carolina (Jerome Simpson) when seasoned receivers were on the board. The [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] drama forced them to overcompensate by taking another wideout Andre Caldwell late in the third round. Auburn defensive tackle Pat Sims and Kansas tackle Anthony Collins add necessary beef to the Bengals' lines and were great values. They help an inconsistent draft.

Cleveland Browns
Grade: B
clevelandbrowns.com
Sure they didn't actually select anyone on the first day. But Brady Quinn and former Packers defense tackle Corey Williams are a pretty good haul for the first two rounds. Cleveland also traded up twice to make two fourth-round picks. UNLV linebacker Beau Bell is a prototype 3-4 inside linebacker who was a good value. TE Martin Rucker was an odd guy to trade a third-round pick for. He can't block a lick, but stretches the field. Just like Kellen Winslow. Cleveland had greater needs on defense, and now they are short a couple picks short again next year.

Denver Broncos
Grade: B+

Denver does a great job finding players that fit their scheme. They were thrilled the second best tackle in the draft was still on the board in Boise St. product Ryan Clady. He fits their zone scheme better than Jake Long would anyway. They also picked up a potential starting center later. Virginia Tech Eddie Royal has extra value on returns and could develop as a rugged complement to Brandon Marshall in the mold of Easy Ed McCaffrey. Arizona State running back Ryan Torain, a fourth-round pick, could be the next unknown Broncos runner to emerge as a star.

Houston Texans
Grade: B-

A lot of people will kill the Texans for "reaching" for left tackle Duane Brown, but they are looking for different qualities in offensive line. The Godfather of zone blocking scheme Alex Gibbs was recently hired and fell in love with the athletic upside of the kid. We give credit to Houston for moving down because they needed extra picks. Purdue LB Xavier Adibi and West Virginia runner both slid in the draft, but are explosive for mid-round picks. This team needed more help in the secondary

Indianapolis Colts
Grade: B+
indianapoliscolts.com
No one plans ahead and drafts better for need than Bill Polian. He traded this year's first rounder for Tony Ugoh ? a wise investment. His second-round selection of the best technician in the draft, center Mike Pollak, is a good indication that veteran Jeff Saturday is nearing the end of the line. For now, Pollak can play guard. Polian is great at finding starting players where others see weaknesses. Georgia Tech OLB Philip Wheeler and fifth-round pick Marcus Howard are light, but can get to the passer.

Jacksonville Jaguars
Grade: C-
jacksonvillejaguars.com
The Jaguars paid an enormous bounty to move up for Derrick Harvey, a guy with inconsistent production at Florida. Giving up their first-rounder and three mid-round picks was a case of falling in love with one player too much. Teams who believe they are close to a championship often think they are only one player away. Second-rounder Quentin Groves is a good pass rusher, but was taken off some teams' boards because of character concerns. Jacksonville had only two picks between rounds three and six.


Kansas City Chiefs
Grade: A
kansascitychiefs.com
Chiefs GM/King Carl Peterson is no media darling, and with good reason. But he'll have his day in the sun after snagging LSU mammoth defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, Virginia guard Branden Albert, and Virginia Tech corner Brandon Flowers. Dorsey was the best player in this draft, and Kansas City smartly passed on a monster deal from New Orleans to trade down. Flowers was our favorite cornerback on the board. Albert was a great pick, although more work was needed on the offensive line. The Chiefs added some boom-or-bust offensive firepower on day two with Texas running back Jamaal Charles and tight end Brad Cottram.

Miami Dolphins
Grade: A-
miamidolphins.com
Great meat and potatoes draft. The Dolphins are confident first overall pick Jake Long is a true NFL left tackle. Philip Merling and Chad Henne represent fantastic values in the second round. Merling is a perfect fit for a 3-4 defense, while Henne is a strong-armed alternative to John Beck at quarterback Hampton defensive tackle Kendall Langford is a developmental third-round pick, but has a high ceiling. Bill Parcells made sure to upgrade the toughness on his roster all offseason.

New England Patriots
Grade: B+

The Patriots value players differently than others. That was true in their selections of Tennessee linebacker Jerod Mayo and Colarado cornerback Terrence Wheatley, but they always take players who are intelligent and versatile. Wheatley has a similar profile coming out of school to Asante Samuel. Mayo is an instinctive inside linebacker, a position they desperately youth at. Third-rounder Shawn Crabel will team with Mayo, but work from the outside. Third-round pick Kevin O'Connell is an athletically gifted quarterback sleeper, but it was a surprise to see New England draft him as a future backup. Late picks Matt Slater and Bo Ruud add special teams value.

New York Jets
Grade: B-
newyorkjets.com
Vernon Gholston is a prototype 3-4 outside linebacker, but his inconsistent effort won't fly in New York. The Jets needed another playmaker on offense, and choose Dustin Keller over any wide receiver. He reminds us a lot of Ben Watson. Fifth-round Tennessee QB Erik Ainge is a developmental prospect. Like last year, the Jets traded away picks to get the guys they wanted. They are counting on free agency to bolster the team, a risky proposition.

Oakland Raiders
Grade: D+
oaklandraiders.com
Passing on Glenn Dorsey could haunt the Raiders for years. Running backs are too easy to find in a zone scheme like Oakland's. Especially when the back in question, Darren McFadden, is likely to split carries. He better be [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] or the pick doesn't work. Oakland burned many of their other picks with earlier trades. Their second day haul, including Buffalo defensive end Trevor Scott and Connecticut cornerback Tyvon Branch, were Al Davis specials ? big and fast. Fabian Washington, a first-round workout wonder of old, was dumped to Baltimore for a fourth-round pick. And so it goes in Oakland.

Pittsburgh Steelers
Grade: A-

Willie Parker's fantasy owners may disagree, but the Steelers did well to go best player available in the first two rounds. They still need a lot of help on their lines, but Illinois running back ReShard Mendenhall is a true three-down back, and Texas wide receiver Limas Sweed was our favorite physical receiver in the draft. They needed more help on the offensive line, but the value just wasn't there until fourth-round tackle Tony Hills. Third-round LB Bruce Davis is seen as a reach by some, but he's a Steeler type of linebacker. The Steelers may soon be known for their offense more than their defense.


San Diego Chargers
Grade: C
sandiegochargers.com
We love first round pick Antoine Cason as a physical cornerback who can play nickel back right away, eventually going into the starting lineup. The low grade is for dealing away way too many picks last year for Eric Weddle and this year for LSU fullback Jacob Hester. They wound up spending another pick at running back just to fill a backup spot. San Diego's roster remains deep, but two straight thin drafts could bite them eventually.

Tennessee Titans
Grade: C-
tennesseetitans.com
Tennessee has drafted a running back early in three straight drafts. While it's good to admit a mistake on [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] (last year's bust), they are taking a similar workout wonder in East Carolina's [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL]. We like Johnson better (he has great hands), but they burned a first round pick on a role player. They took another high upside/big risk player in Jason Jones, whom many thought would fit better in a 3-4 defense. Tennessee continued to roll the dice with a third-round tight end Craig Stevens, who is mostly a blocker and defensive end William Hayes from Winston Salem-State. Odd draft.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

2008 Dynasty Rookie Ranks


The end of NFL Draft season is the beginning of fantasy football draft season. Keeper and dynasty leagues around the country are now gearing up to select the next class of stars and inevitable busts. Hopefully this group of running backs proves deeper than last year's weak overall crop.
Rotoworld has ranked all the rookies at each skill position based on where we'd select them in dynasty leagues. Remember this is projecting who has the best career ? not the most value in 2008. I break it down by position first, then the top-40 overall.

[SIZE=+1]Running Backs[/SIZE]

1. Darren McFadden, Raiders oaklandraiders.com
2. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers carolinapanthers.com

Not an easy decision. I don't expect McFadden to be [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL], but Oakland's effectiveness with their new zone-blocking scheme is a nice tiebreaker. Stewart will be higher than McFadden in the 2008 rankings, but McFadden is worth the gamble long-term.

3. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers
4. Matt Forte, Bears

Forte landed in the best spot of any rookie back. He should be more valuable than Mendenhall over the next two years while Fast Willie Parker is still around. Despite my Tulane homerism and belief Forte will prove to be a great pick, dynasty leagues are about thinking long-term. Mendenhall has a better chance to be a top-ten back, even if it takes a few years.

5. Kevin Smith, Lions detroitlions.com
6. Felix Jones, Cowboys
7. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL], Titans tennesseetitans.com
8. Ryan Torain, Broncos
9. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs kansascitychiefs.com
10. Steve Slaton, Texans
11. Ray Rice, Ravens baltimoreravens.com
12. Mike Hart, Colts indianapoliscolts.com

A lot of great complementary backs in this draft. Smith and Torrain have the best chances here to become primary runners, but they are riskier prospects. Smith's 450 carries are a concern for 2008. Eric Shelton and Brandon Jackson were drafted into great situations too.

13. Tashard Choice, Cowboys
14. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4910"]Marcus Thomas[/URL], Chargers sandiegochargers.com
15. Tim Hightower, Cardinals arizonacardinals.com
16. Chauncey Washington, Jaguars jacksonvillejaguars.com
17. Thomas Brown, Falcons atlantafalcons.com
18. Jacob Hester, Chargers
19. Jerome Felton, Lions detroitlions.com

Thomas is an interesting flier as the next Michael Turner.

[SIZE=+1]Quarterbacks[/SIZE]

1. Matt Ryan, Falcons atlantafalcons.com
2. Chad Henne, Dolphinsn miamidolphins.com
3. Joe Flacco, Ravens baltimoreravens.com
4. Brian Brohm, Packers greenbaypackers.com

Ryan and Brohm were taken almost 60 picks apart in the real draft, but there isn't a huge gap between these four in keeper leagues. Ryan may have the most talent and the longest leash, but it's tough to lift a franchise on your back. Brohm has the longest road to starting. But if he gets there, he'll be in a system made for quarterbacks that perfectly suits his skills. He looks like a great value pick for owners who can be patient.

5. John David Booty, Vikings minnesotavikings.com
6. Kevin O' Connell, Patriots
7. Josh Johnson, Bucs Tampabaybuccaneers.com
8. Andre Woodson, Giants NY Giants
9. Colt Brennan, Redskins washingtonredskins.com
10. Dennis Dixon, Steelers
11. Erik Ainge, Jets newyorkjets.com

Booty could have the quickest path to starting, but he doesn't project as a fantasy factor. O' Connell, Johnson, and Woodson have some long-term upside, but they have a year or two before they are backups.
<!--RW-->[SIZE=+1]Wide Receivers[/SIZE]

1. Devin Thomas, Redskins
2. Limas Sweed, Steelers
3. James Hardy, Bills
4. Eddie Royal, Broncos

Beauty in this wide receiver class, from one to ten, is in the eye of the beholder. We think Thomas has the best combination of number one potential and situation ? by a good amount. Sweed owners are going to have to be patient because he'll be a number three for a few years. Hardy has the best chance to make an immediate impact, but we don't trust the player or Buffalo's passing game. Royal projects as a rock solid number two behind Brandon Marshall.

5. Jerome Simpson, Bengals
6. Jordy Nelson, Packers
7. Mario Manningham, Giants
8. Malcolm Kelly, Redskins
9. Early Doucet, Cardinals

These players are going to have to wait to make a big fantasy impact. Simpson's pick was out of left field, but his raw potential is not unlike Brandon Marshall and Vincent Jackson when they came out of small schools. Nelson is buried in Green Bay, but he fits the scheme and quality rises.

10. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
11. Will Franklin, Chiefs
12. Donnie Avery, Rams
13. Andre Caldwell, Bengals
14. Earl Bennett, Bears
15. Lavelle Hawkins, Titans
16. Harry Douglas, Falcons
17. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4771"]Marcus Smith[/URL], Ravens
18. Marcus Henry, Jets
19. Keenan Burton, Rams
20. Pierre Garcon, Colts

Franklin and Avery have the fastest routes to playing time here, but we question their long-term potential.

[SIZE=+1]Tight Ends[/SIZE]

1. Dustin Keller, Jets
2. John Carlson, Seahawks

I had a similar choice at the top of the tight end rankings last year, but went with the meat and potatoes guy ( Zach Miller) over the flash (Greg Olsen). I'd still take Miller, but this year I'm going for the higher ceiling player. Carlson should be a good pro and a solid fantasy option for years, but I'm not sure he'll ever be a player who tops 650 yards each season. Keller is not as safe a pick, but has great homerun potential for a tight end.

3. Jermichael Finley, Packers
4. Fred Davis, Redskins
5. Gary Barnidge, Panthers
5. Martellus Bennett, Cowboys
6. Martin Rucker, Browns
7. Kellen Davis, Bears
8. Jacob Tamme, Colts

There are a lot of pass-catching tight end prospects in this class compared to last year, but most of them are stuck behind established players. Finley, however, can pass Donald Lee before long and is a nice sleeper. So is Barnidge, who could compete to start in 2009.

9. Craig Stevens, Titans
10. Brad Cottram, Chiefs
11. Derek Fine, Bills

Not exactly on the radar, but players to know.

[SIZE=+1]Overall Top 40[/SIZE]

1. Darren McFadden, Raiders
2. Jonathan Stewart, Panthers
3. Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers
4. Matt Forte, Bears
5. Kevin Smith, Lions
6. Felix Jones, Cowboys
7. Devin Thomas, Redskins
8. Matt Ryan, Falcons
9. Limas Sweed, Steelers
10. James Hardy, Bills
11. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL], Titans
12. Chad Henne, Dolphins
13. Dustin Keller, Jets
14. Eddie Royal, Broncos
15. Joe Flacco, Ravens
16. Brian Brohm, Packers
17. Ryan Torrain, Broncos
18. Jamaal Charles, Chiefs
19. Steve Slaton, Texans
20. Jerome Simpson, Bengals
21. Jordy Nelson, Packers
22. Mario Manningham, Giants
23. Malcolm Kelly, Redskins
24. John Carlson, Seahawks
25. Early Doucet, Cardinals
26. Ray Rice, Ravens
27. Mike Hart, Colts
28. DeSean Jackson, Eagles
29. Will Franklin, Chiefs
30. Jermichael Finley, Packers
31. Tashard Choice, Cowboys
32. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4910"]Marcus Thomas[/URL], Chargers
33. Donnie Avery, Rams
34. Andre Caldwell, Bengals
35. Earl Bennett, Bears
36. Tim Hightower, Cardinals
37. Chauncey Washington, Jaguars
38. Fred Davis, Redskins
39. John David Booty, Vikings
40. Gary Barnidge, Panthers

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Big-hit rookies? McFadden need

Finding the next [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL]. minnesotavikings.com

That was the goal of every NFL team in last weekend's draft, and that will be one of the goals of every fantasy owner this summer.

That is a high hurdle because Peterson is a unique talent, but he is who Darren McFadden ? this year's top rookie ? hopes to live up to.
oaklandraiders.com
McFadden joins an Oakland Raiders team desperate for playmakers. The thing keeping him from being a possible No. 1 fantasy back is all of the other Raiders' backs, including Justin Fargas, Michael Bush and LaMont Jordan.

Perhaps not all of those guys will make the final roster ?Dominic Rhodes was dumped Monday ? just enough of them to limit McFadden's touches. And for a rookie to have a true monster season, he needs plenty of playing time.

With quarterback JaMarcus Russell in place from Week 1 and a line that improved last season, the Raiders are setting up the pieces to improve on a 23rd-ranked scoring offense. But without injuries or other developments to give him 20 touches a game, the most McFadden can hope for is to be a No. 2 back.

In looking for rookie gems, check out the Carolina Panthers' Jonathan Stewart. He is a big, bruising back who fits Carolina's physical style and gets the benefit of running behind an improved offensive line. carolinapanthers.com

Stewart and DeAngelo Williams, another former first-rounder, might split time, but Stewart likely would be more valuable. In a tandem, the more physical runner is the one you want because he often gets the TDs.

Another potential elite fantasy pick is the Detroit Lions' Kevin Smith. The Lions waited until the third round to grab a running back, but with only Tatum Bell in his way, Smith could start quickly. You can't argue with Smith's college production, while Bell's career has been spotty at best. Detroit also helped its offensive line in the first round and will run more now that the pass-happy Mike Martz is gone. detroitlions.com

Keep an eye on:


Matt Forte', Bears. He was a quiet second-round pick, but Forte' could wind up bumping disappointing veteran Cedric Benson out of a job. Be careful, though. The Bears' offense has plenty of problems, so even the starter in that system might not be too valuable.

Rashard Mendenhall, Steelers. He will create a sticky situation behind starter Willie Parker. Mendenhall is the more physical runner. He ought to have more than Parker's two rushing touchdowns last season and help the Steelers improve on their nine total rushing TDs.

Felix Jones, Cowboys. The Cowboys hope he gives them a dynamic 1-2 punch with Marion Barber III and keeps Barber fresh. But as a fantasy pick? Only for insurance if you draft Barber early. With 28 touchdowns over the past two seasons, it is clear who the main guy is in Big D.

[URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL], Titans. For the third year in a row, the Titans were forced to spend a pick in the second round on a running back, and there is little reason to think Johnson will work out considerably better than LenDale White or [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL]. The Titans might try to find different ways to get Johnson the ball, but the goal-line carries will go to White. tennesseetitans.com

Jamaal Charles, Chiefs.Larry Johnson shouldn't worry about his job, but the Chiefs might be worried about him after he missed eight games because of a foot injury. Charles is too small to be a long-term, every-down replacement. But the Chiefs hope to use Charles enough to keep Johnson healthy. kansascitychiefs.com

Martin Rucker, Browns. Rucker, a tight end, might not get off the bench if Kellen Winslow II stays healthy. Winslow typically has knee problems, shoulder injuries or other ailments. Rucker would be an excellent receiver whose value shoots up if Winslow were hurt again. clevelandbrowns.com

Ryan Torain, Broncos. It is a fantasy dictum that we must mention any running back the Broncos draft, even if Travis Henry and Selvin Young are entrenched at Nos. 1-2.

Don't buy the hype:

Matt Ryan, Falcons; Joe Flacco, Ravens. The countdown to starting will be on quickly for both. Just consider their surroundings before spending a pick on them. Neither has much around them, including an offensive line and reliable receivers. You might consider Ryan in keeper leagues, but Flacco is a considerable risk in any format. atlantafalcons.com

Dustin Keller, Jets. Even though the Jets went into the first round to grab Keller, how good do you feel about the team's passing game? They threw money at the offensive line in the offseason, yet Chad Pennington and Kellen Clemens still are the quarterbacks. newyorkjets.com

Fred Davis, Redskins.Chris Cooley has averaged 6.8 touchdowns over the past four seasons, so the Redskins did not have much need at tight end. Davis will line up in some multiple-tight-end sets but is unlikely to have much fantasy impact. washingtonredskins.com

Wide group of receivers:

This year's crop of rookie wide receivers attracted attention for both their depth (10 taken in the second round) and mediocrity (none taken in the first round). And the standard wide receiver disclaimer is that their rookie impact likely will be muted.

Dwayne Bowe was the only one last year who emerged as a regular threat, while Calvin Johnson, James Jones, Anthony Gonzalez and Sidney Rice had limited impact. Here are a few players to watch out of a huge crop of receivers:

Devin Thomas, Malcolm Kelly, Redskins. Both have good physical prospects and will be key pieces of the Redskins' future. Washington does need a bigger receiver opposite Santana Moss, giving Thomas and Kelly a chance to fight for an immediate role. Keep an eye on the winner of that battle.

Jordy Nelson, Packers. Don't overlook his long-term value in keeper leagues, but he is stuck behind Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and Jones for now. greenbaypackers.com

Earl Bennett, Bears. Chicago is desperate for receiving help after the departure of Bernard Berrian and Muhsin Muhammad, so Bennett could start. The problem is the quarterback. Trusting Rex Grossman or Kyle Orton to move the team regularly is a big leap.

Jerome Simpson, Andre Caldwell, Bengals. Depending on [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL]'s situation, the Bengals could have a huge void to fill. They at least have to replace [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL] as the third receiver and, with the team's passing proficiency, that could mean four to six touchdowns for whoever wins the job.

Donnie Avery, Rams. A surprise as the first wide receiver drafted, Avery could make an impact. Torry Holt is aging, Isaac Bruce is gone, and Drew Bennett does not stretch the field. Avery is not polished, however, and he could just as easily flop. But his speed sure is nice.

James Hardy, Bills. Neither Josh Reed nor Roscoe Parrish was attracting much attention opposite Lee Evans, so Buffalo needs the 6-6 Hardy in the red zone. The Bills will be a run-based team centered on Marshawn Lynch and are unlikely to have 30-35 passing touchdowns. That limits Hardy's impact, but the team certainly has a spot for him. buffalobills.com

DeSean Jackson, Eagles. Don't let the big name, the team's big need or the presence of quarterback Donovan McNabb fool you. Jackson is the classic rookie receiver trap. His biggest value will be as a returner.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Dynasty Rookie Rankings

Rotoworld ranked the top rookie dynasty league picks on offense last week. By popular demand, we now give you the IDP picks.

[SIZE=+1]Defensive Linemen[/SIZE]

Vernon Gholston should be the top defensive linemen if you league (Yahoo) makes him eligible there. But really he's a linebacker and that's where he should be listed. This is not an exciting defensive line class for IDP leaguers

1. Chris Long, Rams
2. Derrick Harvey, Jaguars jacksonvillejaguars.com
3. Glenn Dorsey, Chiefs kansascitychiefs.com
4. Lawrence Jackson, Seahawks
5. Philip Merling, Dolphins
6. Quentin Groves, Jaguars
7. Calais Campbell, Cardinals arizonacardinals.com
8. Chris Ellis, Bills buffalobills.com
9. Jeremy Thompson, Packers greenbaypackers.com
10. Sedrick Ellis, Saints

[SIZE=+1]Linebackers[/SIZE]

I'd take the first three names on this list before I drafted someone from another position. Gholston is ranked relatively low, like many OLBs in a 3-4 defense. I play IDP leagues that are quite tackle heavy. Gholston will need to be Shawne Merriman or DeMarcus Ware to be the top fantasy linebacker. I'll take safer bets like Keith Rivers and Jerod Mayo.

1. Keith Rivers, Bengals
2. Jerod Mayo, Patriots
3. Dan Connor, Panthers carolinapanthers.com
4. Vernon Gholston, Jets newyorkjets.com
5. Jordan Dizon, Lions detroitlions.com
6. Beau Bell, Browns clevelandbrowns.com
7. Philip Wheeler, Colts indianapoliscolts.com
8. Shawn Crable, Patriots
9. Tavares Gooden, Ravens baltimoreravens.com
10. Xavier Adibi, Texans
11. Marcus Howard, Colts
12. Robert James, Falcons atlantafalcons.com

[SIZE=+1]Defensive Backs[/SIZE]

With no great safeties in this class, a cornerback makes a rare appearance atop an IDP defensive backs list. Both Leodis McKelvin and Aquib Talib should benefit long-term by playing in Cover Two schemes that boost tackle numbers.

1. Leodis McKelvin, Bills
2. Thomas DeCoud, Falcons
3. Kenny Phillips, Giants NY Giants
4. Aquib Talib, Bucs
5. Brandon Flowers, Chiefs
6. Tyrell Johnson, Vikings minnesotavikings.com
7. Antoine Cason, Chargers sandiegochargers.com
8. Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, Cardinals
9. DaJuan Morgan, Chiefs
10. Patrick Lee, Packers
11. Justin King, Rams
12. Mike Jenkins, Cowboys

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

The Walking Wounded

Each year millions of fantasy football owners have their championship dreams crushed by injuries to star players, but there are two sides to analyzing every injury. On one hand, there's no better place to find a fantasy bargain than flipping through the previous season's Injured Reserve list. On the other hand, there's no larger risk than drafting someone with a history of hospital visits. Some guys recover extremely well to become top producers after finishing the previous season on injured reserve, while others are affected by nagging injuries all season long, causing them to never truly reach their statistical potential. Deciphering what guys can efficiently regain full health and return to glory in the stat column gives a serious edge on the competition.

Monitoring the rehab process of last year's walking wounded is an important part of preparing for 2008 drafts. You'll want to target some of the following guys, while others may be best to let other owners take risks on.

Ronnie Brown, Dolphins RB ? In just his third season, Brown was on pace for more than 2,200 total yards, 11 TDs and 89 catches prior to tearing his ACL in Week 7. The 26 year old would hands down be a top three fantasy pick in all leagues, and possibly the number one overall pick in PPR leagues this year if not for his injury. The good news ? he's expected to be ready for training camp. The bad news ? head coach Tony Sparano is talking about a potential 50-50 time share with 31 year old [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1312"]Ricky Williams[/URL], who looks good in his return from a torn pectoral. Brown is a solid RB2 in PPR leagues, but likely won't be the featured runner he was during the first seven games of 2007. miamidolphins.com

Deuce McAllister, Saints RB ? Talk about devastating knee injuries, the 29 year old power back has suffered two of them in the past three seasons. In 2006, he returned from his first torn ACL (right knee) to rack up 1,057 yards and 10 TDs on 244 carries while sharing work with Reggie Bush. Similar digits were expected from him last year, but after a disappointing start, he tore his left ACL in Week 3. Fantasy owners who have already mentally crossed him off their lists need to think again. Even though Deuce had surgery to repair his torn ACL, and additional microfracture surgery to address the previous damage to his right knee, he's already returned to Saints practices and is reportedly running full speed during drills and pass routes, with no trouble planting and cutting on either knee. He's also exuding plenty of confidence about regaining his starting role. Eventually, these injuries will shorten his career, but fantasy owners looking for a solid late round value would be silly not to consider McAllister. He's expected to be fully healthy by training camp, and if he actually stays that way, he'll be a productive RB3 in 2008.

Chris Perry, Bengals RB ? The 2004 first round pick has only been healthy enough to play in 22 total games during his four year career. He missed 10 games in 2006 with knee and ankle injuries, and was expected to return in 2007, but never did. The 6-0, 224 lb. 26 year old is explosive and versatile when healthy, and a much better receiver out of the backfield than Rudi Johnson. Perry is practicing fully at Organized Team Activities. 29 year old starter Rudi Johnson missed most of 2007 with hammy injuries, so a contributing role could be within Perry's grasp this year. He's someone to follow in deep formats, and could be an early waiver wire gem in most seasonal leagues.

Cadillac Williams, Buccaneers RB ? After completely wrecking his ACL and MCL in Week 4, rumors were flying about Caddy's career being done. The Bucs believed it at some point, and have brought in veteran Warrick Dunn as an insurance policy. Now, just more than a month before training camp begins, the fourth year back from Auburn thinks there's a chance he may actually be ready to go by training camp. Head coach Jon Gruden has been impressed with his work ethic and is expected to give him every opportunity to return, and GM Bruce Allen has also recently commented that he believes Williams will definitely play this year. Williams' surgery was performed by the now famous Dr. James Andrews, who told him that he'd likely be out for between nine and 12 months. At this point, Williams is working on building up his right quad muscles by doing light squats, running stairs, jogging and full-speed pool running. If Caddy returns, it will obviously negatively affect Earnest Graham's value. Tampabaybuccaneers.com

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers RB ? The last time we saw LT, he was just a couple short plays into the biggest game of his life. Although the Chargers have said it's just a knee sprain, it's curious that he'd miss almost two full playoff games, handing the reigns to back-up Michael Turner. At any rate, Tomlinson apparently went through drills at full speed this past week and told media that he's 100 percent. Fantasy owners shouldn't worry about his left knee, but they should be concerned with the loss of fullback Lorenzo Neal. sandiegochargers.com

Reggie Bush, Saints RB ? The 23 year old missed the final four games of 2007 with a mystery knee injury. According to Bush, the emotional pain of missing four games was potentially more devastating than the injury itself. Bush should easily be 100 percent for the start of training camp, and he seems determined to start off 2008 strong.

<!--RW-->

Antonio Gates, Chargers TE ? Gates' dynasty owners cringed when he went down with a severe toe injury in the AFC Wild Card game against the Titans. He tried to play against Indy and New England during the remainder of the playoffs, but clearly wasn't anywhere near full strength. Surgery ensued in February, and he's been slow to recover. Gates hasn't even begun running yet and isn't likely to be ready by training camp. While he may be healthy enough to play in Week 1, there's a chance that this toe injury will nag him for the entire 2008 season. sandiegochargers.com

Todd Heap, Ravens TE ? Heap missed most of 2007 with hamstring injuries, but has practiced with the team during the off-season and says he feels ready to return to full health in 2008. Expect him to always be slowed by a few nagging injuries, but he's a good bet to produce in Cam Cameron's TE friendly offense. baltimoreravens.com

Marvin Harrison, Colts WR ? After a Week 4 knee injury, which was later called a burst bursa sack, Colts head coach Tony Dungy told the media that 35 year old veteran Marvin Harrison would practice every Wednesday and be likely to play every Sunday. Unfortunately, for Harrison's owners, Dungy's promise only came true once, in a Week 7 three catch, 16 yard performance against the Jaguars. Harrison did return in the playoffs, but only caught two balls for 27 yards against the San Diego Chargers, fumbling prior to being benched. Colts president Bill Polian has remained positive about Harrison's health status for 2008, but fantasy owners should proceed with caution. indianapoliscolts.com

Brandon Marshall, Broncos WR ? A mid-February living room wrestling match that involved a McDonald's bag and a television put a damper on Brandon Marshall's fantasy value heading into 2008. The third year 6'4" beast recorded 102 catches for 1,325 yards and seven TDs last year, but now has to recover from a sliced artery, nerve, vein, two tendons and three muscles in his right arm ? and public criticism from QB Jay Cutler. Marshall recently had his cast removed, but will need to wear a sling for another month prior to starting rehab. This means there's no way he'll be ready for training camp, but could potentially play in Week 1, depending on how fast the artery heals, and how much muscle he's been able to rebuild throughout the rehab process.

Hines Ward, Steelers WR ? Ward is a warrior that plays through injuries, but missed three games in 2007 with a partially torn meniscus in his right knee that required off-season surgery. He's taken it very easy on the knee this off-season, showing his face at Steelers mini-camp practices, but not participating in any drills. When it comes down to it, Ward should be fine to play in Week 1. As his body continues to wear down due to his physical style of play though, expect youngsters Santonio Holmes and Limas Sweed to make a larger impact in the stat column.

Javon Walker, Raiders WR ? Walker will be 30 by the time kids are trick-or-treating this fall, and after being released by Denver this off-season, he absolutely needs to prove he can stay healthy. Walker only fully participated in two games last season, due to a nagging injury in his right knee, in which he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in 2005. Obviously Oakland was confident enough in his health to reward him with a six year $55 million contract - $16 million of which is guaranteed ? in early March. oaklandraiders.com

Deion Branch, Seahawks WR ? Two years ago, the Seahawks gave the Patriots a first round pick for Branch, but he hasn't been able to stay healthy in Seattle. He missed five games with foot and ankle injuries in 2007, then went down with a torn ACL in the playoffs against Green Bay. Although the 28 year old has been very productive when healthy, there have been conflicting reports about the severity of his current knee injury and the status of his rehabilitation. In February, GM Tim Ruskell and head coach Mike Holmgren were talking about putting him on Injured Reserve in 2008, or at least the Physically Unable to Perform list ? meaning he'd miss the first eight weeks of the season. Over the last couple weeks, their tune has changed, as they've said there's a possibility Branch could be ready by the first few weeks of the season. Seattle has also expressed confidence in the WR position, believing that Nate Burleson and Bobby Engram can get them through the time Branch misses. The fact that they didn't draft a WR, and Ben Obomanu is their third WR, bodes well for Branch's future value, but don't count on him contributing early on in 2008.

Matt Leinart, Cardinals QB ? Leinart went down in Week 5 of his sophomore season with a broken collarbone, and veteran Kurt Warner stepped in and tossed the lights out in his absence. Regardless, Ken Whisenhunt has remained confident in Leinart as his starter of the future, and the future includes 2008. His collarbone is still healing, but he's looked solid throwing passes in recent practices, and should be fully healthy by training camp. arizonacardinals.com

Matt Schaub, Texans QB ? Houston's signal caller was as banged up as anyone in 2007, missing five games with multiple injuries ? the most serious one on his non-throwing shoulder, on which he had surgery this off-season. Schaub has participated in non-contact practices this May, and is on target for the start of training camp. With new offensive line coach Alex Gibbs and first round tackle Duane Brown on board, Schaub should be better protected in 2008.

Jason Campbell, Redskins QB ? Just as he was coming into his own as a starter, Campbell suffered a dislocated left knee cap that kept him out of the team's final three regular season games and Wild Card Playoff match-up against Seattle. The knee cap is healed, but apparently now he has a strained hamstring. Even if Campbell shakes off these nagging injuries in 2008, learning the complicated West Coast offense of new head coach Jim Zorn will likely keep him from being a solid fantasy starter. washingtonredskins.com

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

IDP Breakouts: Linebackers

You might notice that most of the Individual Defensive Players on this list play for teams whose offenses probably won't be very good this year. No Patriots, Colts, Steelers, Browns, or Jaguars. Naturally, teams lacking great offenses tend to play defense more, giving defenders increased opportunities to fill the stat sheet. While there are exceptions, (most often at the DL position), it's a good idea to consider the other side of the ball when drafting your IDP lineup.

We begin a three-part IDP series with five linebackers capable of taking major statistical leaps in 2008. Defensive backs and linemen are forthcoming.

[SIZE=+1]Jets ILB David Harris[/SIZE]

Harris was nothing short of beastly after replacing injured Jonathan Vilma at weak inside linebacker in Week 8 last season. Harris roamed sideline to sideline and racked up tackles, averaging 11.3 stops per game in the last nine weeks. Defensive coordinator Bob Sutton also used him frequently as a pass rusher. With space clogging Kris Jenkins (6'4/390) now at nose tackle, Harris will be better shielded than he was behind 3-4 misfit Dewayne Robertson (6'1/317). Opponents will also have to key on new rush linebacker Vernon Gholston, who'll likely line up adjacent to Harris at ROLB. Harris is big (6'2/245), fast (4.53 at 2007 Combine), instinctive, and durable. With a full-time starting job, we expect him to supplant Patrick Willis as the NFL's leading tackler this season.

2007 Line: 127 (90 solo) ? 5 SCK ? 0 INT ? FR ? 2 FF ? 3 PASS DEF
Projection: 163 (121 solo) ? 6 SCK ? INT ? 2 FR ? 3 FF ? 5 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: LB1

[SIZE=+1]Chiefs WLB Demorrio Williams[/SIZE]
kansascitychiefs.com
A Jim Mora era holdover, Williams barely kept his starting job from fourth-round rookie Stephen Nicholas under Bobby Petrino last year. In his defense, Williams was coming off a torn pectorals suffered in the offseason conditioning program. He also produced when he played. Signed to upgrade a Chiefs defense that may actually forge team fantasy value because the offense will never be playing, Williams qualifies as a high-upside IDP. While not a classic run-stopping linebacker, Williams has excellent ball skills and athleticism. Our projection is admittedly conservative because of dependent variables. It will be no surprise if Williams approaches 120 tackles with 3-4 picks. Williams' signing moved Napoleon Harris to the bench and Donnie Edwards to MLB. Edwards is another IDP to target.

2007 Line: 78 (63 solo) ? 0 SCK ? 2 INT ? 0 FR ? 0 FF ? 2 PASS DEF
Projection: 104 (79 solo) ? SCK ? 3 INT ? FR ? FF ? 6 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: LB22

[SIZE=+1]Eagles MLB Stewart Bradley[/SIZE]

Bradley sat behind SLB Chris Gocong last year, playing special teams until taking over as the Birds' nickel 'backer down the stretch. That coordinator Jim Johnson let Bradley play on passing downs was a good sign. Because now that he's slated to start inside, we know Bradley won't come off the field often. Johnson uses a penetrating, blitz-happy scheme that usually doesn't lead to massive tackle counts at MLB (Omar Gaither had 102 there last year). But Bradley will get pass-rushing opps, and for a MIKE linebacker, is extremely imposing at 6'3/254. He also showed a nose for the football at Nebraska with five forced fumbles and four recoveries as a senior. We like Bradley a bit more in big play-heavy formats, but he'll be worth rostering as an LB2/3 in tackle-first settings too.

2007 Line: 18 (14 solo) ? SCK ? INT ? 0 FR ? 0 FF ? PASS DEF
Projection: 92 (72 solo) ? 3 SCK ? INT ? 2 FR ? 2 FF ? 6 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: LB31

[SIZE=+1]Bills WLB Kawika Mitchell[/SIZE]
buffalobills.com
Mitchell started slowly as a first-year Giant in 2007, but became arguably the club's best LB by season's end. He showed toughness, missing no time due to a late-season MCL sprain. In Buffalo now, Mitchell's production could skyrocket. Coordinator Perry Fewell teaches a Tampa 2 zone scheme that streams ball carriers to the weak side, where Mitchell will play. While a stepback in the sacks department is likely because Fewell doesn't blitz linebackers as much as Steve Spagnuolo did, Mitchell is a virtual lock to approach the century mark in tackles. He's also likely to be an every-down player.

2007 Line: 76 (54 solo) ? 3.5 SCK ? INT ? FR ? 2 FF ? 4 PASS DEF
Projection: 98 (78 solo) ? 0 SCK ? INT ? 2 FR ? FF ? 6 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: LB32

[SIZE=+1]Bills MLB Paul Posluszny[/SIZE]
buffalobills.com
Poz teased by opening his rookie season with consecutive double-digit tackle efforts, then breaking his forearm in Week 3. Buffalo's defense wouldn't be the same with undrafted rookie John DiGiorgio inside. Healthy again, Posluszny is poised to pick up where he left off. The Penn State alum may come off the field during passing situations in favor of cover 'backer Keith Ellison, but is the run stopper the Bills are desperate for at the MIKE. Don't expect many glory stats from Posluszny, but he's a strong bet for 100 stops.

2007 Line: 26 (17 solo) ? 0 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? 0 FF ? 0 PASS DEF
Projection: 101 (73 solo) ? 0 SCK ? INT ? 2 FR ? 0 FF ? PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: LB45

Others to Keep a Close Eye On: Bengals MLB Odell Thurman, Dolphins ILB Akin Ayodele, Patriots ILB Jerod Mayo, Bengals WLB Keith Rivers, Colts WLB Freddie Keiaho, Broncos MLB Niko Koutouvides, Chargers ILB Matt Wilhelm, Giants WLB Gerris Wilkinson, Lions MLB Jordon Dizon, Panthers WLB Landon Johnson, Falcons MLB Curtis Lofton, Saints MLB Jonathan Vilma, Cardinals OLB Travis LaBoy

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

IDP Breakouts: Defensive Backs

This is the second installment of our three-part IDP Breakouts series.
Defensive linemen will be posted early this week.

When evaluating IDP defensive backs, it's vital to consider the players in front of them. Leaky front sevens allow ball carriers to reach the second level, creating tackle opportunities in the back. Playing behind a much improved defensive line and linebacker unit last year, Titans SS Chris Hope was a megabust IDP before his season-ending spinal chord injury. He averaged only 4.5 tackles per game (3.4 solo) after posting 121 tackles (7.6 per-game average) the season prior.

If you're looking for consistency, also target safeties over cornerbacks. Safeties are typically involved in more plays than CBs, especially man corners assigned to cover receivers one on one. Strong safeties, in particular, tend to line up "in the box," or close to the line of scrimmage. These defensive backs usually won't kill you with empty one- or two-tackle efforts in a given week. Here are the top tackling DBs from the past five seasons:

2007: 49ers SS [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1056"]Michael Lewis[/URL] (104 ? 75 solo)
2006: Titans SS Chris Hope (121 ? 89 solo)
2005: Jets FS Erik Coleman (121 ? 84 solo)
2004: Patriots SS Rodney Harrison (138 ? 94 solo)
2003: Patriots SS Rodney Harrison (126 ? 92 solo)

Notice, no corners.

[SIZE=+1]Saints SS Roman Harper[/SIZE]

Coming off a torn ACL, Harper was exposed at times in coverage in '07. But he showed a knack for the big play and held off Kevin Kaesviharn for playing time. Giants GM Jerry Reese, who's quickly established himself as an elite judge of talent, wanted Harper in a Jeremy Shockey trade this offseason. The Saints said no.

Harper returns a full year removed from surgery and should regain some range. The Saints like to send him on blitzes, which increases Harper's fantasy upside, and he could see more tackle opportunities behind a linebacker unit that may have two starters returning from serious injury (MLB Jonathan Vilma and WLB Dan Morgan). Harper projects as a consistent and top-shelf DB1.

2007 Line: 90 (75 solo) ? 4 SCK ? 3 INT ? 0 FR ? 2 FF ? 8 PASS DEF
Projection: 100 (84 solo) ? 3 SCK ? 2 INT ? FR ? 3 FF ? 7 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DB1

[SIZE=+1]Raiders CB DeAngelo Hall[/SIZE]
oaklandraiders.com
Hall was never bookended by good corners in Atlanta, but offensive coordinators still tested him often. Because of his ball skills and above-average tackling ability, Hall managed solid IDP value even on bad Falcons teams opponents didn't have to throw on to beat.

Now playing opposite the NFL's premier shutdown cornerback, Nnamdi Asomugha, Hall can anticipate a major increase in activity. No starting CB was thrown at less than Asomugha last year. Expect some game-to-game inconsistency because Hall is a press corner moving to the right side, where opponents run less frequently, but still a healthy dose of tackles and a sharp uptick in big plays. Hall has good hands and won't drop many picks. Statistically speaking, there isn't a CB in the league with more IDP upside.

2007 Line: 70 (63 solo) ? 0 SCK ? 5 INT ? FR ? FF ? 16 PASS DEF
Projection: 76 (69 solo) ? 0 SCK ? 7 INT ? 0 FR ? FF ? 18 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DB5

[SIZE=+1]Chiefs SS Bernard Pollard[/SIZE]
kansascitychiefs.com
After focusing on special teams as a rookie in 2006, Pollard took over as a starter in his sophomore season. His tackling numbers were inconsistent and Pollard saw too much coverage duty behind struggling CBs Patrick Surtain and Ty Law. We projected Pollard to lead the NFL in forced fumbles, but "Bonecrusher" managed to pop loose just one.

Coordinator Gunther Cunningham realizes that Pollard's strength is playing at the line of scrimmage, where he is an extremely imposing force at 6'1/224. With teams unlikely to pass on the Chiefs particularly often because of their weak front seven and roster overall (no one should have to play catch-up against Kansas City in 2008), Cunningham should get Pollard more in-the-box opportunities. The Chiefs' defense also figures to be on the field a lot. Pollard has some boom-or-bust potential, but a "boom" is more likely.

2007 Line: 90 (74 solo) ? SCK ? 2 INT ? 0 FR ? FF ? 7 PASS DEF
Projection: 98 (82 solo) ? 2 SCK ? 0 INT ? FR ? 4 FF ? 3 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DB7

[SIZE=+1]Lions SS Daniel Bullocks[/SIZE]
detroitlions.com
The 40th overall pick in 2006, Bullocks entered last year's training camp atop Detroit's depth chart at free safety. But he tore his ACL during the preseason and was placed on injured reserve. Raw rookie Gerald Alexander was forced into action and wasn't the ballhawk in centerfield Bullucks might've been.

The Lions have moved Bullocks to strong safety, replacing Kenoy Kennedy. By the start of camp, he'll be 11 months removed from the injury. Bullocks may lose some range like Roman Harper in 2007, but possesses 100-tackle potential behind a soft front seven. The former Nebraska Cornhusker only has to hold off recently arrested Kalvin Pearson and Alexander for playing time. If he does, Bullocks could emerge as the biggest IDP sleeper in the league. He has a nose for the football and will make plays around the LOS.

2007 Line: None (injured)
Projection: 100 (73 solo) ? SCK ? 2 INT ? 3 FR ? 3 FF ? 4 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DB8

[SIZE=+1]Chargers CB Quentin Jammer[/SIZE]
sandiegochargers.com
The Bolts' left cornerback put together another solid yet unspectacular season in 2007. Jammer isn't a game changer, but tackles reliably and will bat down passes when he gets the chance. He flashed big-play skills with four picks in 2003 and 2006, but Jammer has one or fewer in each of his other four seasons.

The cat is out of the bag on RCB Antonio Cromartie, who led the league with 10 picks in 2007 despite not overtaking Drayton Florence until midseason. Expect offensive coordinators to game plan around Cromartie and Jammer's breakup opportunities to increase. While Jammer's stone hands limit his upside, especially in glory stat-heavy formats, you probably won't find many more consistently productive corners. Jammer also plays the strong side, so a good number of running backs will be coming in his direction.

2007 Line: 61 (54 solo) ? 0 SCK ? INT ? 2 FR ? 0 FF ? 10 PASS DEF
Projection: 77 (68 solo) ? 0 SCK ? INT ? FR ? 0 FF ? 19 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DB25

Others to Keep a Close Eye On: Dolphins SS Yeremiah Bell, Jets CB Darrelle Revis, Bengals SS Chinedum Ndukwe, Bengals CB Leon Hall, Browns CB Brandon McDonald, Texans CB Fred Bennett, Jaguars CB/SS Brian Williams, Chiefs CB Brandon Flowers, Broncos SS Hamza Abdullah, Eagles SS Quintin Mikell, Redskins SS Reed Doughty, Bears SS Brandon McGowan, Vikings CB Cedric Griffin, Falcons CB Chris Houston, Falcons SS Thomas DeCoud

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

IDP Breakouts: Defensive Line

Unlike linebackers and defensive backs, elite IDP defensive linemen aren't a dime a dozen. They're also more fun to start based on matchups. For instance, if you know a left end is going against Bengals right tackle Willie Anderson in a given week, start your guy. If your right defensive end is facing Seahawks LT Walter Jones or Browns LT Joe Thomas, consider other options.

Particularly in sack-heavy leagues, 3-4 linemen should be avoided. You hear a lot about Richard Seymour, but he's rung up more than six sacks just once in his career. Steelers DE Aaron Smith, another big name, dominates versus the run and can collapse the pocket. His career-high sack count is eight. And that came four years ago.

Also consider targeting former 4-3 defensive ends that are converting to outside linebacker in a 3-4. Linebackers tend to get more tackles. Players falling into that category this year include Travis LaBoy (Cardinals), Calvin Pace (Jets), and potential hybrid [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=2539"]Justin Smith[/URL] (49ers).

[SIZE=+1]Chiefs RE Tamba Hali[/SIZE]
kansascitychiefs.com
Hali was a solid if unspectacular bookend for Jared Allen the past two seasons. While the Penn State alum totaled 15 sacks, one NFL player said his team's entire game plan one week in 2007 was to run directly at Hali. Hali's tackles, forced fumbles, and pass deflection numbers all fell off in his sophomore season. He was playing out of position.

He's now moving to Allen's old RE spot, where Hali often looked natural as a Nittany Lion. Hali won't face tackle-tight end double teams on that end and gets to attack quarterbacks on their blind sides. He'll also square off against suspect intradivision LTs Kwame Harris (Raiders) and rookie Ryan Clady (Broncos). Hali should pop loose more fumbles and rack up more sacks in his new digs. Since the Chiefs' offense figures to be terrible, Hali should also be playing quite a bit.

2007 Line: 58 (46 solo) ? 7.5 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? 2 FF ? 2 PASS DEF
Projection: 61 (49 solo) ? 10 SCK ? 0 INT ? FR ? 4 FF ? 3 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DL11

[SIZE=+1]Giants LE Justin Tuck[/SIZE]
NY Giants
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, new to the Giants in 2007, used Tuck in various ways last season. Tuck played some three technique on the interior and was used to spell Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora at both end spots. The results were a breakout season, but Tuck wasn't even a starter.

Tuck's statistics won't get too much better, but with Strahan seriously contemplating going out on top, the versatile 25-year-old has a chance to be an every-down player. If Strahan does retire, Mathias Kiwanuka could potentially take Tuck's old "slash" role. That will be a depth chart situation to watch in training camp, but Tuck figures to get the first look at LE because he's established and groomed for the position. Double-digit sacks and DL1 value in all formats should be a cinch if Tuck joins the first team permanently. Tuck isn't a true "breakout" candidate persay, but no DL in the league's value has risen as much as his over the past year. Don't undervalue him.

2007 Line: 64 (48 solo) ? 9.5 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? FF ? 2 PASS DEF
Projection: 62 (47 solo) ? 11 SCK ? 0 INT ? FR ? 3 FF ? 2 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DL10

[SIZE=+1]49ers RE [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=2539"]Justin Smith[/URL][/SIZE]

Smith's sack total took a disturbing plunge in 2007, but he still led his team in QB pressures and played 16 games for the sixth straight season. His 78 tackles ranked second on the Bengals, behind only Dhani Jones, and third in the NFL amongst defensive linemen (after Jets DE Kenyon Coleman and Ravens DT Kelly Gregg).

Now in San Francisco, Smith will play with his hand up in some 3-4 packages. And don't think he'll be out of place; Smith was handpicked out of Missouri by 3-4 guru Dick LeBeau in 2001. Smith will be contending with exceptionally talented NFC West left tackles (Orlando Pace, Walter Jones, Levi Brown), but it's fair to expect his sacks to rebound some. He'll also roam more, and because Smith's motor never lets up, should remain a DL1-caliber contributor in tackle-heavy settings.

2007 Line: 78 (49 solo) ? 2 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? 0 FF ? 3 PASS DEF
Projection: 80 (52 solo) ? 5 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? 2 FF ? 2 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DL13

[SIZE=+1]Bengals LE Robert Geathers[/SIZE]

Unless Geathers just mailed it in after getting a big new contract last January, his subpar 2007 campaign can be chalked up as a fluke. Due to countless injuries, the Bengals were forced to play Geathers at strong-side linebacker rather than his traditional base left end spot. The switch helped Geathers' tackles slightly, but he clearly wasn't comfortable playing with his hand up. It cost him dearly in the big-play department.

Coach Marvin Lewis considered going with a 3-4 alignment, but that's not happening. Geathers returns to defensive end, where he is quicker than most offensive right tackles and relentless in pursuit. Geathers will play on all three downs and figures to approach the ten sacks he posted in 2006. Upgrade him in sack-heavy formats.

2007 Line: 48 (26 solo) ? 3.5 SCK ? INT ? FR ? 2 FF ? 3 PASS DEF
Projection: 42 (27 solo) ? 9 SCK ? 0 INT ? FR ? 2 FF ? 2 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DL40

[SIZE=+1]Eagles LE Victor Abiamiri[/SIZE]

In the six games Abiamiri did play as a 2007 rookie, he mostly focused on special teams. On defense, the former Notre Dame star sat behind Juqua Parker and Jevon Kearse at left end. The Birds signed Chris Clemons to replace Kearse as a situational rusher. Coordinator Jim Johnson heaped praise on Abiamiri and put him with the first unit at post-draft minicamps.

Abiamiri (6'4/270) can hold the point better than Clemons or Parker, who are both very undersized. While Abiamiri won't play every down, he'll be run at often on the strong side and is set up for tackle opportunities. Expecting close to double-digit sacks would be too bold, but Abiamiri showed in college that he can rush the passer (18.5 sacks his last two seasons) when given the chance. He's a DL4/5 target in deep tackle-first leagues.

2007 Line: 3 (2 solo) ? 0 SCK ? 0 INT ? 0 FR ? 0 FF ? 0 PASS DEF
Projection: 48 (25 solo) ? 5 SCK ? 0 INT ? 2 FR ? FF ? 3 PASS DEF
2008 Rotoworld Rank: DL50

Others to Keep a Close Eye On: Lions RE Cliff Avril, Raiders REs Jay Richardson and Kalimba Edwards, Panthers LE Charles Johnson, Broncos LE Jarvis Moss, Steelers RE Brett Keisel, Titans LE Jevon Kearse, Chiefs LE Alfonso Boone, Rams RE Chris Long, Vikings LE Ray Edwards, Bears RE Alex Brown, Seahawks RE Darryl Tapp

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Never too early for a Mock

If Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer, then the first Mock Draft writeup is the unofficial start to draft season at Rotoworld. Sure, we're two months from training camp and three months from the biggest draft weekends. But the trends you see below are around to stay. Now is a good time for the certifiable fantasy nut to get a feel for 2008.

This draft was taken place a few weeks ago, for print in the first Krause Publications magazine. We participate in a slew of these magazine mocks, and will continue to highlight some in the coming months. This one used points-per-reception (PPR) scoring, and awarded six points for passing touchdowns ? a system that devalues running backs. Do not underestimate how much this system changes strategy, especially with quarterbacks. Evan Silva represented Rotoworld.

[SIZE=+1]Round One[/SIZE]

1.01. John Culligan: [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=1663"]Steven Jackson[/URL]
1.02. Adam Caplan: LaDainian Tomlinson (RB SD)
1.03. Brandon Funston: [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] (RB MIN)
1.04. Dave Richard: Brian Westbrook (RB PHI)
1.05. Dave Hunter: Tom Brady (QB NE)
1.06. Peter Shoenke: Joseph Addai (RB IND)
1.07. Greg Ambrosius: Ryan Grant (RB GB)
1.08. Evan Silva, Rotoworld: Randy Moss (WR NE)
1.09. Michael Fabiano: Larry Johnson (RB KC)
1.10. Tom Kessenich: Frank Gore (RB SF)
1.11 Unknown: Peyton Manning (QB IND)
1.12 John Hansen: Marion Barber (RB DAL)

Trends, Etc: A google search unearths that Culligan once was the co-winner of the World Championship of Fantasy Football. Winning that event takes original thinking and he definitely shows guts by taking Jackson over LT2. Tomlinson's career carries are getting up there, but this won't happen in most drafts. Jackson vs. Peterson vs. Westbrook will be a bigger debate usually. In a PPR league like this, Peterson's value takes a hit.

Deciding how high to rank Tom Brady is one of the toughest calls this season. This league uses six points per passing touchdown, so he's worth it this high. We'd put him and Manning lower if you get four per passing TD.

[SIZE=+1]Round Two[/SIZE]

2.01. Andre Johnson (WR HOU)
2.02. Clinton Portis (RB WAS)
2.03. Terrell Owens (WR DAL)
2.04. Marshawn Lynch (RB BUF)
2.05. Rotoworld: Reggie Wayne (WR IND)
2.06. Reggie Bush (RB NO)
2.07. Laurence Maroney (RB NE)
2.08. Willis McGahee (RB BAL)
2.09. Larry Fitzgerald (WR ARI)
2.10. Maurice Jones-Drew (RB JAC)
2.11. Tony Romo (QB DAL)
2.12. Marques Colston (WR NO)

Trends, Etc: In a PPR league, I'm surprised more receivers weren't taken in the second round. I found it interesting to see Andre Johnson go off the board second at the position. This was before his recent surgery, but it actually matches up with Rotoworld's early rankings. Looks like I wasn't being as bold as I thought.

For all his faults, Bush is a different asset in this format though so there is an argument for him going ahead of a top wideout. Maroney, on the other hand, had the same amount of catches as David Tyree last season: 4. 4!! In other news, Tom Brady threw 578 passes last year.

*** For analysis of the second half of this draft throughout the week, head over to Pancake Blocks.

[SIZE=+1]Round Three[/SIZE]

3.01. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4227"]Steve Smith[/URL] (WR CAR)
3.02. Braylon Edwards (WR CLE)
3.03. T.J. Houshmandzadeh (WR CIN)
3.04. Wes Welker (WR NE)
3.05. Torry Holt (WR STL)
3.06. Darren McFadden (RB OAK)
3.07. Brandon Marshall (WR DEN)
3.08. Rotoworld: Ronnie Brown (RB MIA)
3.09. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4622"]Chad Johnson[/URL] (WR CIN)
3.10. Earnest Graham (RB TB)
3.11. Plaxico Burress (WR NYG)
3.12. Drew Brees (QB NO)

Trends, Etc: A lot of the receivers I expected to go in round two fall here, including Marshall, Smith, Johnson and Edwards. I'll be sick of saying this by August, but I'm not overly worried about Ocho Cinco's potential holdout. He'll show up when it's time to get paid. ? It's strange to say, but Holt belongs below the first tier of wideouts now.

Darren McFadden and Earnest Graham are the biggest risks of this round. I'd worry about them both sharing playing time.

[SIZE=+1]Round Four[/SIZE]

4.01. Antonio Gates (TE SD)
4.02. Jamal Lewis (RB CLE)
4.03. Anquan Boldin (WR ARI)
4.04. Carson Palmer (QB CIN)
4.05. Rotoworld: Brandon Jacobs (RB NYG)
4.06. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=35"]Roy Williams[/URL] (WR DET)
4.07. Hines Ward (WR PIT)
4.08. Willie Parker (RB PIT)
4.09. Derek Anderson (QB CLE)
4.10. Roddy White (WR ATL)
4.11. Michael Turner (RB ATL)
4.12. Thomas Jones (RB NYJ)

Trends, Etc: If Gates' value was hurt by his foot surgery, it wasn't by much. He still went a round in front of the other top tight ends. I'd slot Gates a round back with the other two.

My man Silva did a great job finding running back value with Ronnie Brown and Brandon Jacobs to follow up a nasty Moss/Wayne wideout combo. Jacobs remains an injury-risk, but produces like a RB1 when he plays. ? Anderson and Ward are the first two picks of the draft that make me say Goo. ? Palmer is a good value here in this format.

<!--RW-->
[SIZE=+1]Round Five[/SIZE]

5.01. Jason Witten (TE DAL)
5.02. Marvin Harrison (WR IND)
5.03. Kellen Winslow (TE CLE)
5.04. Julius Jones (RB SEA)
5.05. Tony Gonzalez (TE KC)
5.06. Greg Jennings (WR GB)
5.07. Ben Roethlisberger (QB PIT)
5.08. Rotoworld: Donovan McNabb (QB PHI)
5.09. Santonio Holmes (WR PIT)
5.10. Matt Hasselbeck (QB SEA)
5.11. Dwayne Bowe (WR KC)
5.12. Calvin Johnson (WR DET)

Trends, Etc: It's tricky drafting in May, but this is about the right spot for Harrison. He's a top-20 receiver if he makes it to Week 1, which still looks likely. ? Jennings and Holmes are great young receivers that suffer from the PPR format. ? The quarterbacks go about as I'd expect them to in most leagues. I like the later-round QB1s than the values in this round.

There may be a committee in Seattle, but Julius Jones will be leading the way. ? Tight ends in this group produced like WR2s last season, so it's appropriate that they go in the same round as some. Brodie Croyle scares me too much to go this high on Gonzo.

[SIZE=+1]Round Six[/SIZE]

6.01. Jonathan Stewart (RB CAR)
6.02. LenDale White (RB TEN)
6.03. Edgerrin James (RB ARI)
6.04. Chris Cooley (TE WAS)
6.05. Matt Forte (RB CHI)
6.06. Rudi Johnson (RB CIN)
6.07. Rotoworld ? Lee Evans (WR BUF)
6.08. Justin Fargas (RB OAK)
6.09. Kevin Smith (RB FA)
6.10. Laveranues Coles (WR NYJ)
6.11. Travis Henry (RB DEN)
6.12. Marc Bulger (QB STL)

Trends, Etc: You see the sliding value of running backs in 2008 drafts here. White and James are clear-cut starters coming off relatively solid seasons. Stewart and Forte are high ceiling rookies. I think you are going to be able to pick and choose where you take running back talent this year. These players will probably go in round five with different scoring set up.

Rudi and Henry represent the first dip into the "Maybe they have a job, maybe they don't" pool. We'd rather steer clear of swimming there if you draft early.

[SIZE=+1]Round Seven[/SIZE]

7.01. Fred Taylor (RB JAC)
7.02. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=378"]Kevin Curtis[/URL] (WR PHI)
7.03. Chester Taylor (RB MIN)
7.04. Todd Heap (TE BAL)
7.05. Donald Driver (WR GB)
7.06. Dallas Clark (TE IND)
7.07. Chris Chambers (WR SD)
7.08. Rotoworld: Rashard Mendenhall (RB PIT)
7.09. Javon Walker (WR OAK)
7.10. Jerricho Cotchery (WR NYJ)
7.11. Jeremy Shockey (TE NYG)
7.12. DeAngelo Williams (RB CAR)

Trends, Etc: I'd expect guys like Heap and Shockey to last a little longer in non-PPR leagues. In this draft, players like Vernon Davis and Owen Daniels made it to round nine.

We start to see the first likely backups go off the board at running back (Williams, Chester Taylor). That may indicate that round six is a good time to get your RB3 because the drop-off seems severe. I was very surprised to see Javon Walker go this high. Pancake Block readers would agree.

[SIZE=+1]Round Eight[/SIZE]

8.01. Felix Jones (RB DAL)
8.02. Bobby Engram (WR SEA)
8.03. Bernard Berrian (WR MIN)
8.04. Cedric Benson (RB CHI)
8.05. Rotoworld: Heath Miller (TE PIT)
8.06. Donald Lee (TE GB)
8.07. Jay Cutler (QB DEN)
8.08. Donte' Stallworth (WR CLE)
8.09. Santana Moss (WR WAS)
8.10. Jerious Norwood (RB ATL)
8.11. Joey Galloway (WR TB)
8.12. Jerry Porter (WR JAC)

Trends, Etc: We get some of our favorite WR3 values (Santana Moss, Jerry Porter). Bobby Engram is an interesting case after a career season, but his role is likely to diminish this year. ? With Michael Turner around, I don't see Jerious Norwood as the high ceiling backup that he's drafted as here. ? Cutler is one of our favorite values at any position.

*** For analysis of the second half of this draft throughout the week, head over to Pancake Blocks.

 

[Hache Man]

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Re: Fantasy Football News 2008

Hanging with the Rookies

Each year I get to do something that very few journalists get a chance to do. Every third weekend of May, I get to travel to Los Angeles and watch 32 of the top NFL rookies put on their pro uniforms for the very first time. It's like watching kids in a candy store as these instant millionaires suddenly get the realization that they have actually arrived in the National Football League.

Since 1994, the NFL Players Association has organized what is called the Rookie Photo Shoot for the trading card companies. It's an event that was designed to give the card companies a chance to photograph the top rookies in their NFL uniforms before training camps begin so that they can get those rookie cards in their sets before the start of the NFL season. It's a great idea and one that has been good for the football card industry, good for the NFLPA and good for the players.

Now sponsored by Reebok and EA Sports, the Rookie Photo Shoot is held each year at the L.A. Coliseum and this year 32 skill-position rookies were on hand for the two-day event involving Upper Deck, Topps and Donruss/Playoff. Once in their new NFL uniforms for the first time, the players posed for the cameras, re-enacted game situations and even signed event-used memorabilia. They even took time to talk with fantasy writers like me, while continually checking their uniforms to make sure this wasn't a dream.

I've been to 15 of the 16 Rookie Photo Shoots since 1994 and I've interviewed everyone from a very shy Terrell Davis in 1995 to a very confident Marshawn Lynch in 2007. There are times when I've felt like I could predict the future with these guys after talking with them and seeing them in person, but many times I'm wrong as you can't judge the size of their heart with one interview.

I barely interviewed Davis in 1995 as he seemed too introverted to be successful and I stayed away from Koren Robinson and Plaxico Burress a few years later as both were way too "overconfident" for my liking. Sometimes you miss and sometimes your intuitions are right.

This year I'll give you some unique insights into the top rookie selections that I met in Los Angeles. Here are my Top 15 rookie selections, ranked in order of fantasy preference for the 2008 season:

1. Darren McFadden, RB, Raiders: Al Davis grabbed McFadden fourth in the draft and will build his offense around this lightening-quick back with Justin Fargas in a reserve role. McFadden rushed for 1,830 yards last year at Arkansas and scored 16 TDs, but there is some concern that at 6'1", 217 pounds he may not be able to handle the physical play of the NFL. McFadden has an extremely strong upper body and hips, but I'll admit he has the skinniest calf muscles I've seen on an NFL back. oaklandraiders.com

Still, this is a back who seemed extremely confident to me ? not overconfident either and he didn't bring an entourage of friends with him ? and he's in an ideal situation to excel. He looks like he will run strong between the tackles and once he gets in the open field he could be as exciting as [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4169"]Adrian Peterson[/URL] was last year. There's too much upside here to ignore.

2. Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers: Stewart was the most physically impressive rookie back in Los Angeles as he's a load at 5'10" and 233 pounds. Last year at Oregon, he ran for 1,722 yards and 11 TDs and he will replace DeShaun Foster as the every-down back in Carolina, with DeAngelo Williams coming in on passing situations. Stewart is also extremely confident in his abilities and he is stepping into a perfect situation with the Panthers as the 13th overall pick. Physically and mentally, this guy has what it takes to be the top rookie of 2008. carolinapanthers.com


3. Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Steelers: The Illinois star fell to 23rd overall and now will be in a platoon role with Willie Parker in Pittsburgh. It's not an ideal situation, but Mendenhall has the physical skills to steal more playing time away from Parker if he's not fully recovered from last year's broken leg. At 5'10", 225 pounds, Mendenhall is a load and I was impressed with his confidence when I met him. He looks like a young Jerome Bettis in his new No. 34 Steelers' uniform and he could carry the load there very, very soon.

4. Matt Forte, RB Bears: The Bears had Cedric Benson running with the first team at last week's mini-camp, but this second-round pick out of Tulane could steal that job away very soon. Forte rushed for 2,127 yards and 23 TDs last year at Tulane and at 6'1", 217 pounds he has the physical skills to carry the load. He's not as big as the top three rookie backs and he's not as fast as them, either, but he gains yards after contact. I think he'll platoon with Benson this year and give the Bears a much better ground game all around.

5. Felix Jones, RB, Cowboys: Jones played second fiddle to McFadden at Arkansas, but he still rushed for 1,162 yards and 11 TDs last year. He will turn out to be the perfect complement to Marion Barber in Dallas, getting 8-10 carries per game and being a solid receiver out of the backfield. He's quick as they come out of the backfield and he has better size than I expected at 6'0", 207 pounds. This guy is ecstatic to be going to Dallas and will be a worthy backup RB in fantasy football this season.

6. Kevin Smith, RB, Lions: Smith led the nation last year at the University of Central Florida with 2,567 yards and 29 TDs, but he fell to the first pick in the third round because he's not fast and he's not overly strong. He has good size at 6'1", 217 pounds and he's going to a team that desperately needs a playmaker in the backfield, but I still think it will take some time before Smith emerges as a starter. His lack of explosiveness to the hole could keep him in a platoon role with Tatum Bell this year before he emerges as the starter later in the year. detroitlions.com

<!--RW-->7. Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons: Okay, we finally found somebody who actually collects sports cards as Ryan admitted he did a little collecting in his younger years. Only a handful of players from this group ever collected cards, but we won't hold that against them. Ryan is as confident as they come and you could see how much he enjoyed having that Falcons' jersey on last weekend. atlantafalcons.com

He exudes confidence and at 6'4", 228 pounds he looks like the prototypical NFL QB. Ryan threw for 4,507 yards and 31 TDs last year at Boston College and even though he says that he just wants to fit in with the Falcons and will do whatever the coaches ask of him, you know deep down he has every intention of going there and starting at some point this year. I think Ryan is going to be special and down the road he will be a Top 10 fantasy QB. It just won't happen this year.

8. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL], RB, Titans: The Titans have had more top rookies at this event over the years than any team I can remember and they all look promising in pads, but do little on the field. Chris Brown. LenDale White. [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4226"]Chris Henry[/URL]. tennesseetitans.com

Now [URL="http://fantasyfootball.usatoday.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=NFL&id=4743"]Chris Johnson[/URL]. The 5'11", 198-pounder rushed for 1,123 yards and 17 TDs last year at East Carolina and should be a good complement to White in Tennessee, but he doesn't look big enough to be an everydown back. I'm not sure he's much of an upgrade from Henry, which makes this a questionable first round pick for the Titans.

9. Devin Thomas, WR, Redskins: No wide receiver went in the first round this year and I can see why. There are a lot of smallish wideouts this year that could make impacts on special teams right away, but will struggle to make an impact in the NFL this year. washingtonredskins.com

The best candidate to make an impact, in my opinion, is Thomas, who went 34th overall after catching 79 passes for 1,260 yards and eight TDs last year at Michigan State. Thomas has good size (6'2", 216) and will battle with fellow rookie Malcolm Kelly for the No. 3 WR role. Thomas will be a worthy pickup this year and he will have more than his share of highlight-reel catches.

10. James Hardy, WR, Buffalo: Hardy was an interesting one to meet because weeks before this outing he had an altercation with his dad. But I'll say that he was an extremely nice and confident kid who may have the best chance to excel among any of the rookie wideouts. buffalobills.com

He should be the No. 3 wideout in Buffalo after catching 76 passes for 1,125 yards and 16 TDs last year at Indiana, and at 6'5", 217 pounds he was the most physically impressive wideout of the group. Keep an eye on this kid because he could be something special.

I'll close out my Top 15 with a quick comment on the next 5 rookies.

11. Limas Sweed, WR, Steelers: This second-round pick out of Texas looks like a younger, leaner Plaxico Burress. He's 6'4" with long arms, but needs even more meat on this 215-pound frame. In time, he could be a good one.

12. Malcolm Kelly, WR, Redskins: This Oklahoma wideout is a spittin' image of Thomas at 6'3", 224 pounds. These two could be 1-2 options in a few years. washingtonredskins.com

13. Ray Rice, RB, Ravens: He's a tough bowling ball at 5'8" and 199 pounds who ran for 2,012 yards and 24 TDs last year at Rutgers. He should be a good backup in Baltimore, but it's hard to imagine him being an every-down back anytime soon with Willis McGahee in the fold. He sure is a nice, nice kid who has a great attitude and I'll be pulling for him. baltimoreravens.com

14. Dustin Keller, TE, Jets: He's extremely short for a tight end (6'2" seemed generous) and will likely be used more in pass catching situations. I don't see him becoming an every-down tight end anytime soon. newyorkjets.com

15. DeSean Jackson, WR, Eagles: Jackson is as quick as they come in this rookie class, but he's also among the smallest at 5'9", 169 pounds. It's hard to imagine Jackson getting off the line of scrimmage easily or going across the middle for catches in the NFL. He looked small even among the journalists, which is saying something.

All in all, this class likely won't rank among the top half that I've seen since 1994, but there are enough potential stars at RB to make things interesting this Draft Day. And in time, these wideouts could emerge as a solid group. They just won't star right away.