Chicago Bears QB Kyle Orton is out at least a month with a high ankle sprain.
The initial hit on Orton was fine, but some asshole had to pile onto him after he was down and landed on Orton's legs, which caused an awkward bend on his ankle. High ankle sprains are horrible and usually come with a varied time of recovery, so there's no way to know right now how long Orton will be out.
Fantasy Impact: Those who had stumbled onto a surprise match up QB1 can drop their waiver wire find unless they have an extra roster spot to carry a 3rd QB. Even so, you're probably winning without Orton, meaning you don't need him. It's a real shame as he was coming into his own as both a real QB and a fantasy property prior to the injury. This kills the value of all Bears receivers/TEs as Rex Grossman has already proven how bad of a QB he is.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Week 9 Injury Updates
I have updated all players in the Walking Wounded article below as to their status for Sunday. It's almost game time! Damn daylight savings time pushing everything back an hour...
Worth noting is a rumor that Tim Hightower will start this week. If you have Edge, get him out of your lineup, not that he should have been there anyways. Hightower is worth using if you're stuck at the RB2 position as he'll probably score against the Rams, and could rack up solid yardage depending on exactly how many touches he'll receive.
Worth noting is a rumor that Tim Hightower will start this week. If you have Edge, get him out of your lineup, not that he should have been there anyways. Hightower is worth using if you're stuck at the RB2 position as he'll probably score against the Rams, and could rack up solid yardage depending on exactly how many touches he'll receive.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Week 9 Waiver Wire Possibilities
Sorry I didn't write this yesterday, I was sick and not willing to do much of anything.
I'll touch on a couple players that I think should be owned in 12 man leagues:
Ryan Torain - If you have an open spot, you have to grab this kid. Pittman has looked good in recent weeks, but he's banged up with a rib injury. Selvin Young is still battling a groin problem, and Andre Hall fumbled away his chances of making an impact in week 7. The fact Denver never placed Torain on IR despite his elbow injury speaks volumes about what they think about this kid. As the weather gets colder and Denver can't afford to be so pass heavy, someone has to carry the rock, and Torain easily has the most upside out of the Denver backfield. He should get some action this week.
Leon Washington - Washington is a much more explosive player than Thomas Jones, but he's not going to win the starting job this year. Still, as we head into the 2nd half, all TJ owners should have him.
Donnie Avery - There's zero reason why he should still be on waiver wires. He's emerged as the top contributor in the Rams passing attack with Holt rapidly declining.
Mike Walker - With Matt Jones facing a 3 game suspension, and Jerry Porter looking terrible, Walker could emerge with a sizeable role in the offense. Unfortunately, however, his constant knee problems are still a factor, but it's worth keeping his name in your head.
I'll touch on a couple players that I think should be owned in 12 man leagues:
Ryan Torain - If you have an open spot, you have to grab this kid. Pittman has looked good in recent weeks, but he's banged up with a rib injury. Selvin Young is still battling a groin problem, and Andre Hall fumbled away his chances of making an impact in week 7. The fact Denver never placed Torain on IR despite his elbow injury speaks volumes about what they think about this kid. As the weather gets colder and Denver can't afford to be so pass heavy, someone has to carry the rock, and Torain easily has the most upside out of the Denver backfield. He should get some action this week.
Leon Washington - Washington is a much more explosive player than Thomas Jones, but he's not going to win the starting job this year. Still, as we head into the 2nd half, all TJ owners should have him.
Donnie Avery - There's zero reason why he should still be on waiver wires. He's emerged as the top contributor in the Rams passing attack with Holt rapidly declining.
Mike Walker - With Matt Jones facing a 3 game suspension, and Jerry Porter looking terrible, Walker could emerge with a sizeable role in the offense. Unfortunately, however, his constant knee problems are still a factor, but it's worth keeping his name in your head.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Week 9 Walking Wounded
QB:
Tony Romo - Romo is still out with his broken pinkie, and there's no reason to believe that he'll play in week 9.
Carson Palmer - Palmer is currently week to week with his elbow injury, but there's no reason to think he'll play in week 9.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is currently week to week with his back/leg injury, and he's questionable to play in week 9. *edit* Hasselback is out in week 9.
J.T. O'Sullivan - O'Sullivan was benched for his slow morph into the Human Turnover (not delicious), and given Shaun Hill played well in the 2nd half, there's really no reason for the 49ers to start O'Sullivan again.
RB:
Steven Jackson - Jackson did not play in week 8 with his quad injury, but all signs point to him being ready to play in week 9. He'll probably have a light practice load, but a full practice at some point would be excellent news. *edit* Steven Jackson posted on his personal website yesterday that he's going to play today, and he was correct. He's a risk, but one worth taking.
Clinton Portis - Portis suffered a leg injury of some sort (there's conflict on hip/ankle) late in the 4th quarter and did not return. Given Portis had been dealing with a hip injury the past 2 weeks, this is worth watching for week 9, but it looks like he'll play for now. *edit* Portis had a limited practice on Friday, but all signs point to him starting on MNF. He's run over everyone so far, but if you have a solid option to use in his place, I'd think about it given Portis' horrible matchup. He's not invincible, and he's due for a bad game.
Reggie Bush - Bush is on bye in week 9, and is still expected to miss 1-2 more games.
Joseph Addai - Addai did not play in week 8, and his week 9 status is completely up in the air. *edit* Addai practiced in full all week and will start in week 9. He's probably not going to be the workhorse he was prior to the injury, but odds are he'll probably end up with more touches than Rhodes. I'd use him unless you have 2 true primary ball carriers.
Willie Parker - Parker seems to be week to week with his knee injury, and his week 9 status is questionable. *edit* Parker practiced fully all week and will start on MNF. Just like with Addai, expect Moore to steal a decent bit of his touches, but he'll get the ball enough to be worth using. Also like with Addai, I'd use him unless you have 2 true primary ball carriers.
Larry Johnson - LJ will be deactivated by the Chiefs in week 9. Kolby Smith will start and should see the majority of the carries. Charles will also play a role. Neither are worth using unless completely desparate.
Warrick Dunn - Dunn played very little in week 8, and his role for the near future is questionable despite him playing through the injury. *edit* Dunn is out in week 9. Expect Michael Bennett to take his role, albet in a lesser fashion. Graham makes for an excellent play, and Bennett could make his touches count against the ghastly KC run D.
WR:
Santana Moss - Moss left late in the 4th quarter in week 8 with a hamstring injury. This is a concern as Moss has been hobbled by numerous leg injuries throughout his career. Keep a close eye on him as he plays on Monday night in week 9. *edit* Moss didn't practice in full all week, and the only way you can risk him is if you have Holmes/Ward/maybe Randle El on your bench that you can play instead.
Plaxico Burress - Out of nowhere, Burress did not start and was not a big part of the offense in week 8. Between the mysterious neck injury and his constant violations of team policy, it might be good to shop him around and see what he commands. He is not a reliable fantasy player. *edit* Burress is ready for week 9, so use him if you have him.
Matt Jones - Jones is coming off his best game of the season, but will likely start serving his 3 game suspension starting in week 9. *edit* Jones was not suspended, so feel free to use him as a WR3 in week 9.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey played again in week 8, but again looked limited by his injury. He's on bye in week 9, so hopefully that gets him close to 100%.
Tony Romo - Romo is still out with his broken pinkie, and there's no reason to believe that he'll play in week 9.
Carson Palmer - Palmer is currently week to week with his elbow injury, but there's no reason to think he'll play in week 9.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is currently week to week with his back/leg injury, and he's questionable to play in week 9. *edit* Hasselback is out in week 9.
J.T. O'Sullivan - O'Sullivan was benched for his slow morph into the Human Turnover (not delicious), and given Shaun Hill played well in the 2nd half, there's really no reason for the 49ers to start O'Sullivan again.
RB:
Steven Jackson - Jackson did not play in week 8 with his quad injury, but all signs point to him being ready to play in week 9. He'll probably have a light practice load, but a full practice at some point would be excellent news. *edit* Steven Jackson posted on his personal website yesterday that he's going to play today, and he was correct. He's a risk, but one worth taking.
Clinton Portis - Portis suffered a leg injury of some sort (there's conflict on hip/ankle) late in the 4th quarter and did not return. Given Portis had been dealing with a hip injury the past 2 weeks, this is worth watching for week 9, but it looks like he'll play for now. *edit* Portis had a limited practice on Friday, but all signs point to him starting on MNF. He's run over everyone so far, but if you have a solid option to use in his place, I'd think about it given Portis' horrible matchup. He's not invincible, and he's due for a bad game.
Reggie Bush - Bush is on bye in week 9, and is still expected to miss 1-2 more games.
Joseph Addai - Addai did not play in week 8, and his week 9 status is completely up in the air. *edit* Addai practiced in full all week and will start in week 9. He's probably not going to be the workhorse he was prior to the injury, but odds are he'll probably end up with more touches than Rhodes. I'd use him unless you have 2 true primary ball carriers.
Willie Parker - Parker seems to be week to week with his knee injury, and his week 9 status is questionable. *edit* Parker practiced fully all week and will start on MNF. Just like with Addai, expect Moore to steal a decent bit of his touches, but he'll get the ball enough to be worth using. Also like with Addai, I'd use him unless you have 2 true primary ball carriers.
Larry Johnson - LJ will be deactivated by the Chiefs in week 9. Kolby Smith will start and should see the majority of the carries. Charles will also play a role. Neither are worth using unless completely desparate.
Warrick Dunn - Dunn played very little in week 8, and his role for the near future is questionable despite him playing through the injury. *edit* Dunn is out in week 9. Expect Michael Bennett to take his role, albet in a lesser fashion. Graham makes for an excellent play, and Bennett could make his touches count against the ghastly KC run D.
WR:
Santana Moss - Moss left late in the 4th quarter in week 8 with a hamstring injury. This is a concern as Moss has been hobbled by numerous leg injuries throughout his career. Keep a close eye on him as he plays on Monday night in week 9. *edit* Moss didn't practice in full all week, and the only way you can risk him is if you have Holmes/Ward/maybe Randle El on your bench that you can play instead.
Plaxico Burress - Out of nowhere, Burress did not start and was not a big part of the offense in week 8. Between the mysterious neck injury and his constant violations of team policy, it might be good to shop him around and see what he commands. He is not a reliable fantasy player. *edit* Burress is ready for week 9, so use him if you have him.
Matt Jones - Jones is coming off his best game of the season, but will likely start serving his 3 game suspension starting in week 9. *edit* Jones was not suspended, so feel free to use him as a WR3 in week 9.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey played again in week 8, but again looked limited by his injury. He's on bye in week 9, so hopefully that gets him close to 100%.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Week 8 Injury Updates
I have updated all players in the Walking Wounded area below. The biggest news is probably Steven Jackson's gametime decision status. Boldin will play, and Cotchery is also a gametime decision as well.
Steelers WR Santonio Holmes Suspended For 1 Game
Pittsburgh Steelers WR Santonio Holmes will be deactivated in week 8 on a team suspension for being arrested with marijuana possession.
Holmes has had prior run-ins with the law, so there's a possibility that the NFL will nail him with another suspension.
Fantasy Impact: Holmes will not play in week 8, so bench him. His replacement, Nate Washington, immediately becomes a solid WR3 play if you're hurting at the position. He's assume Holmes' deep threat role and should post solid numbers against the Giants vulnerable corners.
Holmes has had prior run-ins with the law, so there's a possibility that the NFL will nail him with another suspension.
Fantasy Impact: Holmes will not play in week 8, so bench him. His replacement, Nate Washington, immediately becomes a solid WR3 play if you're hurting at the position. He's assume Holmes' deep threat role and should post solid numbers against the Giants vulnerable corners.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Chiefs RB Larry Johnson Suspended For 1 Game
As I wrote earlier this week to expect, the Chiefs (not the NFL yet) have suspended Larry Johnson another game for violating team policy.
This is likely just a placeholder until the NFL steps in and suspends LJ even further for his abuse charges.
Fantasy Impact: LJ will miss week 8, and likely more games beyond that. Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles will again split the load, but the Chiefs don't have it any easier this week facing the quietly 4th ranked rush defense (yards per game) of the New York Jets. Avoid the situation again.
This is likely just a placeholder until the NFL steps in and suspends LJ even further for his abuse charges.
Fantasy Impact: LJ will miss week 8, and likely more games beyond that. Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles will again split the load, but the Chiefs don't have it any easier this week facing the quietly 4th ranked rush defense (yards per game) of the New York Jets. Avoid the situation again.
Browns TE Kellen Winslow Suspended For 1 Game
The Cleveland Browns have suspended TE Kellen Winslow for 1 game for conduct detrimental to the team.
Winslow's outburst of frustration against the team concerning his staph infection earlier this week will cost him a game. He has a point given that Cleveland is building up an interesting (and sad) reputation of players developing staph infections. They seemingly tried to bury the fact behind a different injury, and then the truth came out. Regardless, a team will usually suspend a player when he speaks out against the organization through a public outlet. The relationship between Winslow and the Browns is deteriorating, and it's becoming increasingly likely that he'll be traded in the offseason, which would probably be good news for his fantasy value at this point.
Fantasy Impact: Winslow will not play in week 8, so you must find an alternative. The TE options are not attractive at this point in the season, but you could try your luck with someone like Anthony Fasano, Marcedes Lewis, or even Billy Miller if Shockey sits again. I would not use Winslow's backup, Steve Heiden, as his productive came in the one good game Derek Anderson has had all season.
Winslow's outburst of frustration against the team concerning his staph infection earlier this week will cost him a game. He has a point given that Cleveland is building up an interesting (and sad) reputation of players developing staph infections. They seemingly tried to bury the fact behind a different injury, and then the truth came out. Regardless, a team will usually suspend a player when he speaks out against the organization through a public outlet. The relationship between Winslow and the Browns is deteriorating, and it's becoming increasingly likely that he'll be traded in the offseason, which would probably be good news for his fantasy value at this point.
Fantasy Impact: Winslow will not play in week 8, so you must find an alternative. The TE options are not attractive at this point in the season, but you could try your luck with someone like Anthony Fasano, Marcedes Lewis, or even Billy Miller if Shockey sits again. I would not use Winslow's backup, Steve Heiden, as his productive came in the one good game Derek Anderson has had all season.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Week 8 Waiver Wire Possibilities
QB:
Jeff Garcia - You have to temper enthusiasm given Seattle's defense is a mess right now. Regardless, Garcia did start the year playing hurt, and he looked way better last weekend. If you have some serious issues at QB2, he's worth a look, especially with a match up against Dallas' shambled secondary this week. Antonio Bryant is settling in and looking great as his primary target.
Matt Cassel - You could possibly spot-start him at home against STL this week, but he's a bottom level QB2 thanks to his horrible inconsistency.
Dan Orlovsky - Um, no.
RB:
Sammy Morris - He should obviously be owned as I already mentioned in my Maroney article, but if he's still out there, grab him. He did leave after a monster 1st half with a knee injury, and given the Patriots knack for hiding injury information, you need to be careful here. He's going to be a RB2 the rest of the year if it's not a big problem, though.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis - Ellis ran well on Monday night, although it was against Denver's disgusting run defense, so his 13 carries for 65 yards needs a bit of a star on it. If Sammy Morris misses time and Jordan continues to be injured, I see no reason why Green-Ellis wouldn't at least split time with Kevin Faulk, if not take Morris' role. He's more of a speculation pick.
Ahman Green - Ya know, he hasn't looked bad since returning. He's really only a deep depth option for Slaton owners and not much else, though.
WR:
Josh Morgan - Morgan has finally cashed in on the preseason hype and will be starting for the 49ers for the rest of the year. He celebrated with 86 yards and a TD last week, and he should be their top big play target with his speed. He'll be inconsistent, but he can be used as a WR3 in the right matchups.
Donnie Avery - Another rookie finally emerging. He's starting across from Holt, so he'll see lots of single coverage, and the dude is fast. Another possible WR3 in the right matchup, and solid bench depth.
Mike Furrey - Furrey will see decent single coverage as well, taking Roy Williams' spot across from Calvin Johnson. He should see a decent number of targets, but I just can't see him being a WR3 except for desparate owners in ideal match ups.
Marty Booker - No thanks. The Bears are still employing the first WRBC I've ever seen. He doesn't get enough targets, nor is he on the field enough.
TE:
Zach Miller - This guy shouldn't be unowned in any leagues, but I still see him available. If you drafted someone like Vernon Davis or Todd Heap, you need to be using Miller instead. Russell trusts him, and he's been pretty solid with his yardage outputs.
This was a solid week for TEs getting yardage, but I don't see any staying power for these guys. Jerramy Stevens can be watched given his talent level and the lack of receiving options behind Antonio Bryant, but that's about it.
Jeff Garcia - You have to temper enthusiasm given Seattle's defense is a mess right now. Regardless, Garcia did start the year playing hurt, and he looked way better last weekend. If you have some serious issues at QB2, he's worth a look, especially with a match up against Dallas' shambled secondary this week. Antonio Bryant is settling in and looking great as his primary target.
Matt Cassel - You could possibly spot-start him at home against STL this week, but he's a bottom level QB2 thanks to his horrible inconsistency.
Dan Orlovsky - Um, no.
RB:
Sammy Morris - He should obviously be owned as I already mentioned in my Maroney article, but if he's still out there, grab him. He did leave after a monster 1st half with a knee injury, and given the Patriots knack for hiding injury information, you need to be careful here. He's going to be a RB2 the rest of the year if it's not a big problem, though.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis - Ellis ran well on Monday night, although it was against Denver's disgusting run defense, so his 13 carries for 65 yards needs a bit of a star on it. If Sammy Morris misses time and Jordan continues to be injured, I see no reason why Green-Ellis wouldn't at least split time with Kevin Faulk, if not take Morris' role. He's more of a speculation pick.
Ahman Green - Ya know, he hasn't looked bad since returning. He's really only a deep depth option for Slaton owners and not much else, though.
WR:
Josh Morgan - Morgan has finally cashed in on the preseason hype and will be starting for the 49ers for the rest of the year. He celebrated with 86 yards and a TD last week, and he should be their top big play target with his speed. He'll be inconsistent, but he can be used as a WR3 in the right matchups.
Donnie Avery - Another rookie finally emerging. He's starting across from Holt, so he'll see lots of single coverage, and the dude is fast. Another possible WR3 in the right matchup, and solid bench depth.
Mike Furrey - Furrey will see decent single coverage as well, taking Roy Williams' spot across from Calvin Johnson. He should see a decent number of targets, but I just can't see him being a WR3 except for desparate owners in ideal match ups.
Marty Booker - No thanks. The Bears are still employing the first WRBC I've ever seen. He doesn't get enough targets, nor is he on the field enough.
TE:
Zach Miller - This guy shouldn't be unowned in any leagues, but I still see him available. If you drafted someone like Vernon Davis or Todd Heap, you need to be using Miller instead. Russell trusts him, and he's been pretty solid with his yardage outputs.
This was a solid week for TEs getting yardage, but I don't see any staying power for these guys. Jerramy Stevens can be watched given his talent level and the lack of receiving options behind Antonio Bryant, but that's about it.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Chiefs RB Larry Johnson In Line For A Further Suspension
Kansas City Chiefs RB Larry Johnson has been allegedly involved in multiple physical altercations with females this season, and combining that with 2 other instances prior to this year, it seems very likely the NFL will punish LJ further coming off his 1 game suspension (sorry I didn't post about it) in week 7 for missing team meetings and the like.
I don't have much to say about pieces of trash that do stuff like this. I wish he'd be permanently removed from the NFL at this point.
Fantasy Impact: His owners have no other choice than to wait it out to see what happens. He probably won't get suspended the rest of the season given the NFL has not suspended him for these incidents yet, but a 2-4 game suspension seems reasonable to expect. Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles will split time in his place. Smith is a between-the-tackles runner and the likely favorite for goal line carries, while Charles is very fast and solid in the passing game. If you're forced to use one of them you'll have to consider your league settings (TD heavy, PPR, etc) before picking a preference. They should only be used as an emergency RB2 in great matchups.
I don't have much to say about pieces of trash that do stuff like this. I wish he'd be permanently removed from the NFL at this point.
Fantasy Impact: His owners have no other choice than to wait it out to see what happens. He probably won't get suspended the rest of the season given the NFL has not suspended him for these incidents yet, but a 2-4 game suspension seems reasonable to expect. Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles will split time in his place. Smith is a between-the-tackles runner and the likely favorite for goal line carries, while Charles is very fast and solid in the passing game. If you're forced to use one of them you'll have to consider your league settings (TD heavy, PPR, etc) before picking a preference. They should only be used as an emergency RB2 in great matchups.
Patriots RB Laurence Maroney To IR
The New England Patriots placed "starting" RB Laurence Maroney on IR with a shoulder injury today, ending his season.
Maroney continues to disappoint Patriots fans and fantasy owners alike with shoddy on-field performance and injuries. After a very promising close to 2007 with a great playoff run, Maroney went back to being inconsistent and mostly irrelevant. This shoulder injury has kept him out of the lineup for 2 weeks, but we probably won't know exactly what is wrong with him for some time.
Fantasy Impact: Drop Maroney in all redraft leagues, obviously. Sammy Morris, although he should have been owned already, is the #1 WW pickup this week. He'll be the starting RB for the rest of the season while Kevin Faulk gets 3rd down work.
Maroney continues to disappoint Patriots fans and fantasy owners alike with shoddy on-field performance and injuries. After a very promising close to 2007 with a great playoff run, Maroney went back to being inconsistent and mostly irrelevant. This shoulder injury has kept him out of the lineup for 2 weeks, but we probably won't know exactly what is wrong with him for some time.
Fantasy Impact: Drop Maroney in all redraft leagues, obviously. Sammy Morris, although he should have been owned already, is the #1 WW pickup this week. He'll be the starting RB for the rest of the season while Kevin Faulk gets 3rd down work.
Week 8 Walking Wounded
QB:
Tony Romo - Romo will again come down to a game time decision in week 8. There will be pressure to get him on the field given how horrible the Cowboys looked last week with Brad Johnson at the helm. *edit* Tony Romo is out in week 8.
Carson Palmer - Palmer has already been ruled out for week 8, and there are again concerns that he may still need Tommy John surgery. Wait for definitive word, but with the Bengals facing a lost season, exercising caution with their franchise QB is their best choice.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is highly unlikely to play again in week 8, although more will be known later this week. *edit* Hasselbeck is out in week 8.
Brodie Croyle - Welcome back Brod...there he goes again. Croyle tore his MCL and is out for the season, not that he should have been on your roster anyways.
Damon Huard - Huard decided to get the hell out of there as well with a thumb injury. No report on the severity, but owners of Bowe and Gonzalez are praying that he's OK. Behind Huard? Tyler Thigpen. *edit* Huard was placed in IR with thumb ligament damage. He's done for the year.
RB:
Brian Westbrook - Initial reports about Westbrook playing in week 8 are positive, but you never know for sure with Westbrook. Rib injuries can be very tricky. Keep a close eye on his practice schedule, but if you've owned Westbrook before, you know the drill. *edit* Westbrook is putting in full practices and will start in week 8.
Steven Jackson - Jackson pulled his quad in week 7, and his status in week 8 is not known as of now. *edit* Jackson put in a limited practice on Friday, is listed as questionable and will be a gametime decision.
Reggie Bush - Bush was finally putting together the fantasy season owners were dreaming of, especially in leagues that count return TDs, but Bush tore his meniscus and will miss 2-4 weeks. He is out in week 8.
Joseph Addai - Addai is unlikely to play in week 8, but we'll see if the Colts are actually telling the truth by his practice schedule this week. Keep an eye on him, but TEN looms next, and unless Addai is 100%, you don't want him in your lineup. *edit* Only went through one limited practice. Expect him to either backup Rhodes, or be out on Monday night. Still, with the matchup against TEN, I wouldn't use either given the lingering uncertainty.
Willie Parker - Parker is a complete question mark for week 8, so keep an eye on his practice schedule. Moore was outstanding in his place during week 7. *edit* Parker suffered another setback in practice and is out in week 8.
Willis McGahee - McGahee finally broke through with 150 total yards and a score, most of that coming when the Phins lost mammoth NT Jason Ferguson and their run D fell apart. Still, McGahee looked the best he has all year, but he also played through pain in the knee he injured during the preseason. As usual, keep an eye on his practice schedule. *edit* McGahee is probable and will start. Use him against Oakland.
Warrick Dunn - Dunn suffered a pinched nerve in his back last night, and given his older body, this is worth keeping track of. Should he miss time, Earnest Graham would get all the carries and be an excellent fantasy play. *edit* Dunn is questionable and a gametime decision.
WR:
Anquan Boldin - Boldin's week 8 status is up the air. The Cardinals came out this week and stated that there was more to the injury, adding a concussion and broken bones in his jaw to the list of injuries he suffered on that nasty hit. He did however return to a non-contact practice today, and could be cleared tomorrow. I'll update once I find out. *edit* Boldin will play in week 8, although limited snaps. Still, start him.
Chris Chambers - Another week of uncertainty for Chambers, who has missed 2 weeks with his ankle injury now. More will be known later this week. *edit* Chambers is questionable and not worth using this week even if he does play.
Jerricho Cotchery - Cotchery left hurt for a bit in week 7, but returned and did nothing. I'm far more likely to blame this on being covered by the best corner in the NFL (Nnamdi Asomugha) than anything, but I'll keep an eye on any additional injury information. *edit* Cotchery is questionable and a gametime decision. Use him if he plays.
Laveraneous Coles - Coles suffered a head injury during week 7, but since Jets' coach Eric Mangini hails from the Belichick "dodge the injury report" thought process, we might not find out if it was a concussion. This is worth monitoring. *edit* Coles is probable and will start, so no concerns here. The concussion was mild.
Kevin Curtis - There's a decent chance he returns this week. We'll find out via practice reports. *edit* Curtis has returned to full practices and will start in week 8.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey returned in week 7, but didn't look that great despite posting decent receiving numbers. He made the team flight to London for the overseas game, but keep an eye on his practice schedule. *edit* Shockey is probable and will start, so go ahead and use him, but keep expectations in check.
Tony Romo - Romo will again come down to a game time decision in week 8. There will be pressure to get him on the field given how horrible the Cowboys looked last week with Brad Johnson at the helm. *edit* Tony Romo is out in week 8.
Carson Palmer - Palmer has already been ruled out for week 8, and there are again concerns that he may still need Tommy John surgery. Wait for definitive word, but with the Bengals facing a lost season, exercising caution with their franchise QB is their best choice.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is highly unlikely to play again in week 8, although more will be known later this week. *edit* Hasselbeck is out in week 8.
Brodie Croyle - Welcome back Brod...there he goes again. Croyle tore his MCL and is out for the season, not that he should have been on your roster anyways.
Damon Huard - Huard decided to get the hell out of there as well with a thumb injury. No report on the severity, but owners of Bowe and Gonzalez are praying that he's OK. Behind Huard? Tyler Thigpen. *edit* Huard was placed in IR with thumb ligament damage. He's done for the year.
RB:
Brian Westbrook - Initial reports about Westbrook playing in week 8 are positive, but you never know for sure with Westbrook. Rib injuries can be very tricky. Keep a close eye on his practice schedule, but if you've owned Westbrook before, you know the drill. *edit* Westbrook is putting in full practices and will start in week 8.
Steven Jackson - Jackson pulled his quad in week 7, and his status in week 8 is not known as of now. *edit* Jackson put in a limited practice on Friday, is listed as questionable and will be a gametime decision.
Reggie Bush - Bush was finally putting together the fantasy season owners were dreaming of, especially in leagues that count return TDs, but Bush tore his meniscus and will miss 2-4 weeks. He is out in week 8.
Joseph Addai - Addai is unlikely to play in week 8, but we'll see if the Colts are actually telling the truth by his practice schedule this week. Keep an eye on him, but TEN looms next, and unless Addai is 100%, you don't want him in your lineup. *edit* Only went through one limited practice. Expect him to either backup Rhodes, or be out on Monday night. Still, with the matchup against TEN, I wouldn't use either given the lingering uncertainty.
Willie Parker - Parker is a complete question mark for week 8, so keep an eye on his practice schedule. Moore was outstanding in his place during week 7. *edit* Parker suffered another setback in practice and is out in week 8.
Willis McGahee - McGahee finally broke through with 150 total yards and a score, most of that coming when the Phins lost mammoth NT Jason Ferguson and their run D fell apart. Still, McGahee looked the best he has all year, but he also played through pain in the knee he injured during the preseason. As usual, keep an eye on his practice schedule. *edit* McGahee is probable and will start. Use him against Oakland.
Warrick Dunn - Dunn suffered a pinched nerve in his back last night, and given his older body, this is worth keeping track of. Should he miss time, Earnest Graham would get all the carries and be an excellent fantasy play. *edit* Dunn is questionable and a gametime decision.
WR:
Anquan Boldin - Boldin's week 8 status is up the air. The Cardinals came out this week and stated that there was more to the injury, adding a concussion and broken bones in his jaw to the list of injuries he suffered on that nasty hit. He did however return to a non-contact practice today, and could be cleared tomorrow. I'll update once I find out. *edit* Boldin will play in week 8, although limited snaps. Still, start him.
Chris Chambers - Another week of uncertainty for Chambers, who has missed 2 weeks with his ankle injury now. More will be known later this week. *edit* Chambers is questionable and not worth using this week even if he does play.
Jerricho Cotchery - Cotchery left hurt for a bit in week 7, but returned and did nothing. I'm far more likely to blame this on being covered by the best corner in the NFL (Nnamdi Asomugha) than anything, but I'll keep an eye on any additional injury information. *edit* Cotchery is questionable and a gametime decision. Use him if he plays.
Laveraneous Coles - Coles suffered a head injury during week 7, but since Jets' coach Eric Mangini hails from the Belichick "dodge the injury report" thought process, we might not find out if it was a concussion. This is worth monitoring. *edit* Coles is probable and will start, so no concerns here. The concussion was mild.
Kevin Curtis - There's a decent chance he returns this week. We'll find out via practice reports. *edit* Curtis has returned to full practices and will start in week 8.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey returned in week 7, but didn't look that great despite posting decent receiving numbers. He made the team flight to London for the overseas game, but keep an eye on his practice schedule. *edit* Shockey is probable and will start, so go ahead and use him, but keep expectations in check.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Week 7 Injury Updates
Better late than never, and on Sunday morning just when you need it! All the latest is in my Walking Wounded column below.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Colts RB Joseph Addai Out 2-4 Weeks With Torn Hamstring
The Indianapolis Colts have stated that RB Joseph Addai is expected to miss 2-4 weeks after an MRI revealed a partial tear in Addai's hamstring that caused him to exit early in week 6.
Dominic Rhodes will replace Addai as the starter and must be owned in all leagues. The Colts play Green Bay this week, and GB's run defense has not been good, ranking dead last in YPC and 27th in rushing yards per game.
Fantasy Impact: Addai owners probably should have drafted Rhodes in the last round given Addai's injury problems last year, and they definitely should have attempted to grab Rhodes on the WW this week as I stated in my WW article. Rhodes will be an excellent RB to use this week, although he does have some tough matchups over the next couple weeks, including Tennessee in week 8 and Pittsburgh in week 10. Addai is proving to be a bust with poor play and continued injury problems. He should not be "bought low", and if you own him, hopefully he heels quickly and has a strong finish to the season.
Dominic Rhodes will replace Addai as the starter and must be owned in all leagues. The Colts play Green Bay this week, and GB's run defense has not been good, ranking dead last in YPC and 27th in rushing yards per game.
Fantasy Impact: Addai owners probably should have drafted Rhodes in the last round given Addai's injury problems last year, and they definitely should have attempted to grab Rhodes on the WW this week as I stated in my WW article. Rhodes will be an excellent RB to use this week, although he does have some tough matchups over the next couple weeks, including Tennessee in week 8 and Pittsburgh in week 10. Addai is proving to be a bust with poor play and continued injury problems. He should not be "bought low", and if you own him, hopefully he heels quickly and has a strong finish to the season.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Lions WR Roy Williams Traded To The Dallas Cowboys
The Detroit Lions have traded WR Roy Williams to the Dallas Cowboys for 1st, 3rd, and 6th round draft picks.
Dallas isn't going to be able to sit for a week. A 1st, 3rd, and 6th for a WR who has proven little on the field other than a lack of focus, and whose contract is expiring at the end of the year? Now Dallas HAS to re-sign him to a big contract for the trade to be even close to worth it. Detroit cashed in huge by dealing a player who wasn't going to do anything for them over the course of the year (Unless you count dropped passes, wrong routes, and public bitching. I don't.), and who gave them zero reason to re-sign come year's end when he would have walked away for nothing. Sure, Williams upgrades the offensive talent and will probably re-focus himself in Dallas, but he'll have to do so with Brad Johnson for a month. This will cause even less targets for Owens, and given Witten is there as well, less targets for Williams as he is arguably the 3rd option in the passing game now, and arguably the 4th option in the offense. Good times.
However, if Dallas does re-sign him, Roy Williams finds his focus, and he plays to his talent level, then Dallas has found Owens' eventual replacement as Williams possesses a similar skill set as a big, physical receiver who can get open deep. They certainly overpaid, but there's at least a possibility that they'll get some value back from this trade moving forward.
Fantasy Impact: Roy Williams' fantasy stock probably stays as is with Brad Johnson under center, plus he'll have to learn the playbook, but it increases a bit once Romo returns and he's comfortable in the offense. He'll have to do more with less as he's no longer battling for the primary focus of the passing game. However, I do bet he'll focus more while playing on a winning team and back home in Texas. Crayton is the big loser here as he'll move to the slot and see much less time on the field. Romo, Owens, Witten, and Barber all stay about the same.
Dallas isn't going to be able to sit for a week. A 1st, 3rd, and 6th for a WR who has proven little on the field other than a lack of focus, and whose contract is expiring at the end of the year? Now Dallas HAS to re-sign him to a big contract for the trade to be even close to worth it. Detroit cashed in huge by dealing a player who wasn't going to do anything for them over the course of the year (Unless you count dropped passes, wrong routes, and public bitching. I don't.), and who gave them zero reason to re-sign come year's end when he would have walked away for nothing. Sure, Williams upgrades the offensive talent and will probably re-focus himself in Dallas, but he'll have to do so with Brad Johnson for a month. This will cause even less targets for Owens, and given Witten is there as well, less targets for Williams as he is arguably the 3rd option in the passing game now, and arguably the 4th option in the offense. Good times.
However, if Dallas does re-sign him, Roy Williams finds his focus, and he plays to his talent level, then Dallas has found Owens' eventual replacement as Williams possesses a similar skill set as a big, physical receiver who can get open deep. They certainly overpaid, but there's at least a possibility that they'll get some value back from this trade moving forward.
Fantasy Impact: Roy Williams' fantasy stock probably stays as is with Brad Johnson under center, plus he'll have to learn the playbook, but it increases a bit once Romo returns and he's comfortable in the offense. He'll have to do more with less as he's no longer battling for the primary focus of the passing game. However, I do bet he'll focus more while playing on a winning team and back home in Texas. Crayton is the big loser here as he'll move to the slot and see much less time on the field. Romo, Owens, Witten, and Barber all stay about the same.
NFL Week 6 Trading Deadline
The NFL 2008 trading deadline is today, FYI. There have been some fantasy-relevant players like Roy Williams and Tony Gonzalez mentioned in trade rumors, but it's just talk for now.
The NFL trading deadline used to be a buried story as no teams tried to deal players, but last season Chris Chambers was traded from Miami to San Diego, so there's a possibility that a bigger name player could be dealt before the deadline. I'll shoot out a new post if anything gets done.
Owners of both Williams and Gonzalez should be rooting for a trade as they would obviously see an increase in fantasy value moving to a better offense.
The NFL trading deadline used to be a buried story as no teams tried to deal players, but last season Chris Chambers was traded from Miami to San Diego, so there's a possibility that a bigger name player could be dealt before the deadline. I'll shoot out a new post if anything gets done.
Owners of both Williams and Gonzalez should be rooting for a trade as they would obviously see an increase in fantasy value moving to a better offense.
Week 7 Waiver Wire Possibilities
QB:
Matt Ryan - Ryan appears to be for real. He might have been picked up already, but his performance against a tough Bears defense was impressive. Now the Bears lost Tillman mid-game and Vasher was out, and they don't blitz, so the performance does have a caveat, but he's benefiting from the attention Turner is attracting, and Roddy White is consistently making plays for him. He's a match up play, but with the QB turnover the past couple weeks, he can help your team.
Gus Frerotte - He seems to be taking well to Minnesota's offense. He's using the 8 defenders in the box to find Berrian deep consistently. Now he's strictly a match up play only, but he could be a bye-week fill-in for the QB carnage going on these days.
Jeff Garcia - Desparate times call for desparate measures. He's a possibility if nothing else is out there and you need another QB. He actually posted semi-respectable numbers against a tough Carolina pass defense.
RB:
Dominic Rhodes - Your #1 waiver priority. With Addai going down with a hamstring injury, and the Colts refusing to talk about it, it's worth it to nab a potential starting RB for a week or three. Now it's possible Addai returns this week, but I'd personally take the chance if you need immediate RB help, and especially if you own Addai.
Sammy Morris - Maroney and Jordan were scratches, and Morris got the backfield work. He was hardly impressive with 10 carries for 26 yards, but he tossed in a TD and 49 receiving yards. He's the current alpha dog of the NE backfield and is worth owning.
Patrick Cobbs - If I need to tell you that last week was a fluke, stop playing fantasy football.
WR:
Lance Moore - Moore might get dropped with Colston coming back, but there's no reason to drop him. He's going to be entrenched opposite Colston in the starting lineup, and I apologize for being lukewarm on adding him 2 weeks ago. He's claimed the starting position, and with Shockey possibly out again, he'd be WR3 material this week even with Colston back as he'll divert attention.
Malcolm Floyd - If Chambers misses another game, Floyd will start and take his role in the offense. He's very much like Devery Henderson in that he'll only catch 2-3 passes, but he'll be targeted deep. He's the ultimate boom/bust, but you might need him.
TE:
Marcedes Lewis - We probably just saw Lewis' best game of the season on Sunday with 64 yards and a TD, but he's quietly in the top 10 of TEs for targets and makes for a worthwhile add. He isn't going to be consistent, but at this point, not many are at the TE position.
Matt Ryan - Ryan appears to be for real. He might have been picked up already, but his performance against a tough Bears defense was impressive. Now the Bears lost Tillman mid-game and Vasher was out, and they don't blitz, so the performance does have a caveat, but he's benefiting from the attention Turner is attracting, and Roddy White is consistently making plays for him. He's a match up play, but with the QB turnover the past couple weeks, he can help your team.
Gus Frerotte - He seems to be taking well to Minnesota's offense. He's using the 8 defenders in the box to find Berrian deep consistently. Now he's strictly a match up play only, but he could be a bye-week fill-in for the QB carnage going on these days.
Jeff Garcia - Desparate times call for desparate measures. He's a possibility if nothing else is out there and you need another QB. He actually posted semi-respectable numbers against a tough Carolina pass defense.
RB:
Dominic Rhodes - Your #1 waiver priority. With Addai going down with a hamstring injury, and the Colts refusing to talk about it, it's worth it to nab a potential starting RB for a week or three. Now it's possible Addai returns this week, but I'd personally take the chance if you need immediate RB help, and especially if you own Addai.
Sammy Morris - Maroney and Jordan were scratches, and Morris got the backfield work. He was hardly impressive with 10 carries for 26 yards, but he tossed in a TD and 49 receiving yards. He's the current alpha dog of the NE backfield and is worth owning.
Patrick Cobbs - If I need to tell you that last week was a fluke, stop playing fantasy football.
WR:
Lance Moore - Moore might get dropped with Colston coming back, but there's no reason to drop him. He's going to be entrenched opposite Colston in the starting lineup, and I apologize for being lukewarm on adding him 2 weeks ago. He's claimed the starting position, and with Shockey possibly out again, he'd be WR3 material this week even with Colston back as he'll divert attention.
Malcolm Floyd - If Chambers misses another game, Floyd will start and take his role in the offense. He's very much like Devery Henderson in that he'll only catch 2-3 passes, but he'll be targeted deep. He's the ultimate boom/bust, but you might need him.
TE:
Marcedes Lewis - We probably just saw Lewis' best game of the season on Sunday with 64 yards and a TD, but he's quietly in the top 10 of TEs for targets and makes for a worthwhile add. He isn't going to be consistent, but at this point, not many are at the TE position.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Week 7 Walking Wounded
Sorry to everyone for missing my usual Friday injury updates for week 6. Let's get back to it with the week 7 injuries. I will not cover injured players on bye in week 7 as they'll be on your bench anyways.
QB:
Tony Romo - Fantasy owners are no doubt freaking with the news that Romo fractured his pinkie finger and will miss 4-5 weeks. Which means 3-4 games. Brad Johnson will take his place, and while he is an interesting (albeit conservative) week 7 option against STL, he's not recommended beyond that. Downgrade all Cowboys, especially T.O. *edit* Tony Romo will not start in week 7.
Carson Palmer - Palmer has already been ruled out for week 7, and again looks like a dicey bet for the rest of the season. He's going to see the New York Mets pitching doctor, so hopefully some definitive news beyond this week will be known soon. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been a disaster in his place, and will continue to be such. *edit* Carson Palmer is again facing the threat of season-ending surgery. I'd still hold onto him until news is official.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is out in week 7, but with a bulging disc in his back as opposed to his knee. It's very possible he'll miss multiple weeks beyond this.
Trent Edwards - Edwards practiced on Monday and will be starting again in week 7 after missing week 5 with a concussion. Losman will head back to the bench. *edit* Edwards is starting in week 7.
Jon Kitna - Kitna's week 7 status is in doubt, and so is his starting job for the rest of the season. If he's your QB2 you need to drop him and find someone better on the waiver wire. *edit* Kitna is out in week 7, and was placed on IR. Drop him immediately if you didn't after I suggested doing it the first 8 times.
Ben Roethlisberger / Aaron Rodgers - 2 fantasy starters who have been dealing with injuries, but have looked fine on gameday. Big Ben has hopefully mostly healed over the bye week, and Rodgers continues to look fine on gameday. *edit* Both are starting in week 7 and have excellent matchups.
RB:
Joseph Addai - Addai suffered a potentially serious hamstring injury, and the Colts haven't been forthcoming with any sort of information about it. Dominic Rhodes will start should Addai miss time, and he needs to be added in every league. *edit* Addai is out 2-4 weeks. The Colts are denying it, but I'm not buying it.
Willie Parker - Parker practiced on Monday and is ready to start in week 7. *edit* Parker re-injured his knee in practice and is out for week 7. Mewelde Moore will start in his place.
Willis McGahee - McGahee also suffered some sort of injury that knocked him from the game in week 6, and little is known about it. Last week was the one week McGahee could have totally redeemed himself, but unlike Lloyd Christmas, he failed to do so. Keep him rostered, but don't let him anywhere near your lineup. *edit* McGahee will start in week 7, and I guess you could do worse for an emergency if you didn't get Rhodes/Moore/Morris.
Selvin Young - Young missed week 6 with a groin injury, and his status for week 7 is uncertain. Given the way Michael Pittman played, Young has probably lost his starting job. It was clear Shanahan didn't trust him as a featured RB this season. *edit* Young is out again in week 7. With Pittman running well and Torain close to returning, you can drop Young if you like someone better out there.
Kevin Smith - Smith left with a shoulder injury in week 6, did not return, and his status for week 7 is uncertain. Rudi would dominate the backfield should Smith miss week 7, but given the disastrous state of the Lions offense, it'd be hard to recommend him, although Houston's defense is allowing 4.5 YPC on the season. *edit* Smith returned to practice on Friday and will resume his timeshare role.
Chris Perry - No injury, he just sucks. After a couple promising outings against tough defenses in weeks 2 and 3, he's been absolute crap. I plan on dropping him from both of my teams if I can land Rhodes. Kenny Watson and Cedric Benson will likely battle to start in week 7 as there's strong rumors of him being benched. *edit* Cedric Benson is the new starter. Drop Perry.
Laurence Maroney - In the lineup, out of the lineup. Who knows what's really wrong with him, and if you see someone like Michael Pittman or Dominic Rhodes on your waiver wire, cut bait with Maroney. He still has untapped talent, but it's starting to become clear that he again won't put it on display this season. *edit* Maroney is doubtful, and Sammy Morris will dominate the carries in his place.
WR:
Marques Colston - Oh so close to playing in week 6, but it would be a shock if he didn't play in week 7. He should be all systems go, and back to being a borderline WR1. *edit* Colston is starting in week 7. Get him in your lineup.
Chris Chambers - Chambers missed week 6 with an ankle injury, and nothing is known about his week 7 status as the Chargers haven't identified what exactly the injury is. That being said, I would guess it's a multi-week injury. *edit* Chambers is out in week 7. Malcolm Floyd will start in his place.
Eddie Royal - Royal missed week 6 with an ankle sprain, but there's some optimism about returning in week 7. We'll know more later this week. *edit* Royal will resume starting in week 7, so start him if you were on the fence.
Brandon Stokley - Stokley was a solid one week fill-in for Royal owners with a couple catches and a TD, but was concussed in the first half and didn't return. His status for week 7 is in question. *edit* Stokley is unlikely to play in week 7. Do not use him.
Deion Branch - Branch missed week 6 with a heel injury, and even though he might return in week 7, he's not worth using with Hasselbeck out unless Frye shows improvement in his next game. *edit* Branch is out in week 7.
TE:
Kellen Winslow - Winslow probably won't play this evening with some gross swollen testicle issue, but odds are he'll be ready for week 7 as he seemed somewhat close to play this week. *edit* Winslow will start in week 7, so you should start him too.
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey seemingly came close to playing in week 6, but he's still uncertain for week 7 as he only put in limited practices last week. I'll update him further later this week. *edit* Shockey will start in week 7, so you should start him too.
Tony Scheffler - Scheffler missed week 6 with a groin injury, and his status for week 7 is in question as of now. *edit* Scheffler looks unlikely to play, and his bye week is next week, so there's no reason for Denver to force him back out there. Don't use him.
QB:
Tony Romo - Fantasy owners are no doubt freaking with the news that Romo fractured his pinkie finger and will miss 4-5 weeks. Which means 3-4 games. Brad Johnson will take his place, and while he is an interesting (albeit conservative) week 7 option against STL, he's not recommended beyond that. Downgrade all Cowboys, especially T.O. *edit* Tony Romo will not start in week 7.
Carson Palmer - Palmer has already been ruled out for week 7, and again looks like a dicey bet for the rest of the season. He's going to see the New York Mets pitching doctor, so hopefully some definitive news beyond this week will be known soon. Ryan Fitzpatrick has been a disaster in his place, and will continue to be such. *edit* Carson Palmer is again facing the threat of season-ending surgery. I'd still hold onto him until news is official.
Matt Hasselbeck - Hasselbeck is out in week 7, but with a bulging disc in his back as opposed to his knee. It's very possible he'll miss multiple weeks beyond this.
Trent Edwards - Edwards practiced on Monday and will be starting again in week 7 after missing week 5 with a concussion. Losman will head back to the bench. *edit* Edwards is starting in week 7.
Jon Kitna - Kitna's week 7 status is in doubt, and so is his starting job for the rest of the season. If he's your QB2 you need to drop him and find someone better on the waiver wire. *edit* Kitna is out in week 7, and was placed on IR. Drop him immediately if you didn't after I suggested doing it the first 8 times.
Ben Roethlisberger / Aaron Rodgers - 2 fantasy starters who have been dealing with injuries, but have looked fine on gameday. Big Ben has hopefully mostly healed over the bye week, and Rodgers continues to look fine on gameday. *edit* Both are starting in week 7 and have excellent matchups.
RB:
Joseph Addai - Addai suffered a potentially serious hamstring injury, and the Colts haven't been forthcoming with any sort of information about it. Dominic Rhodes will start should Addai miss time, and he needs to be added in every league. *edit* Addai is out 2-4 weeks. The Colts are denying it, but I'm not buying it.
Willie Parker - Parker practiced on Monday and is ready to start in week 7. *edit* Parker re-injured his knee in practice and is out for week 7. Mewelde Moore will start in his place.
Willis McGahee - McGahee also suffered some sort of injury that knocked him from the game in week 6, and little is known about it. Last week was the one week McGahee could have totally redeemed himself, but unlike Lloyd Christmas, he failed to do so. Keep him rostered, but don't let him anywhere near your lineup. *edit* McGahee will start in week 7, and I guess you could do worse for an emergency if you didn't get Rhodes/Moore/Morris.
Selvin Young - Young missed week 6 with a groin injury, and his status for week 7 is uncertain. Given the way Michael Pittman played, Young has probably lost his starting job. It was clear Shanahan didn't trust him as a featured RB this season. *edit* Young is out again in week 7. With Pittman running well and Torain close to returning, you can drop Young if you like someone better out there.
Kevin Smith - Smith left with a shoulder injury in week 6, did not return, and his status for week 7 is uncertain. Rudi would dominate the backfield should Smith miss week 7, but given the disastrous state of the Lions offense, it'd be hard to recommend him, although Houston's defense is allowing 4.5 YPC on the season. *edit* Smith returned to practice on Friday and will resume his timeshare role.
Chris Perry - No injury, he just sucks. After a couple promising outings against tough defenses in weeks 2 and 3, he's been absolute crap. I plan on dropping him from both of my teams if I can land Rhodes. Kenny Watson and Cedric Benson will likely battle to start in week 7 as there's strong rumors of him being benched. *edit* Cedric Benson is the new starter. Drop Perry.
Laurence Maroney - In the lineup, out of the lineup. Who knows what's really wrong with him, and if you see someone like Michael Pittman or Dominic Rhodes on your waiver wire, cut bait with Maroney. He still has untapped talent, but it's starting to become clear that he again won't put it on display this season. *edit* Maroney is doubtful, and Sammy Morris will dominate the carries in his place.
WR:
Marques Colston - Oh so close to playing in week 6, but it would be a shock if he didn't play in week 7. He should be all systems go, and back to being a borderline WR1. *edit* Colston is starting in week 7. Get him in your lineup.
Chris Chambers - Chambers missed week 6 with an ankle injury, and nothing is known about his week 7 status as the Chargers haven't identified what exactly the injury is. That being said, I would guess it's a multi-week injury. *edit* Chambers is out in week 7. Malcolm Floyd will start in his place.
Eddie Royal - Royal missed week 6 with an ankle sprain, but there's some optimism about returning in week 7. We'll know more later this week. *edit* Royal will resume starting in week 7, so start him if you were on the fence.
Brandon Stokley - Stokley was a solid one week fill-in for Royal owners with a couple catches and a TD, but was concussed in the first half and didn't return. His status for week 7 is in question. *edit* Stokley is unlikely to play in week 7. Do not use him.
Deion Branch - Branch missed week 6 with a heel injury, and even though he might return in week 7, he's not worth using with Hasselbeck out unless Frye shows improvement in his next game. *edit* Branch is out in week 7.
TE:
Kellen Winslow - Winslow probably won't play this evening with some gross swollen testicle issue, but odds are he'll be ready for week 7 as he seemed somewhat close to play this week. *edit* Winslow will start in week 7, so you should start him too.
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey seemingly came close to playing in week 6, but he's still uncertain for week 7 as he only put in limited practices last week. I'll update him further later this week. *edit* Shockey will start in week 7, so you should start him too.
Tony Scheffler - Scheffler missed week 6 with a groin injury, and his status for week 7 is in question as of now. *edit* Scheffler looks unlikely to play, and his bye week is next week, so there's no reason for Denver to force him back out there. Don't use him.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Week 6 Waiver Wire Possibilities
QB:
Marc Bulger - If you have recent lost your QB2, someone like Jon Kitna, seriously consider an upside pick like Marc Bulger. Bulger won't return to his pre-2007 performance with the current state of the Rams offense, but like I said last week, I expect better things with the coaching change. The Rams never should have benched him to begin with.
Gus Frerotte - If someone like Bulger isn't available, you can try taking a shot with Frerotte. He looked solid last night. The Vikings will undoubtedly be a run first team, but Frerotte will be trusted to throw it deep to Berrian and Rice (when he returns). He showed last night that he's much more accurate with the deep ball than Jackson, and he should be able to take advantage of the defenses putting 8 in the box.
RB:
Justin Fargas - If for some reason he was dropped, get him. All indications point to him starting this week, and he should continue to start until he gets hurt again. McFadden still appears to be ailing, and the coaching staff apparently isn't thrilled with Michael Bush despite his impressive performances when given the chance.
Correll Buckhalter - All Westbrook owners need him anyways. If he was dropped with Westbrook returning last week, and you're either a Westbrook owner or someone in need of an RB2 this week, grab him. It would be stupid for Westbrook to play this week, and Buckhalter has a solid matchup against the 49ers in week 6.
Michael Pittman - If you can't get Buckhalter and are really hurting for an RB2 this week, it might be worth a shot to snag Pittman. Shanahanigans are in full effect this year, but Pittman is the Broncos' RB with the most value. He's getting the goal line carries, and he might be in line for more regular work if Young's groin is giving him problems.
Ryan Torain - If you drafted prior to Torain's elbow injury, he was dropped in redraft leagues. If you drafted after Torain's elbow injury, he wasn't drafted at all. If you have a spot that you're not doing much with, pick up Torain and wait for his possibly week 9 return. Torain had a serious shot at starting week 1 with a big preseason, but his elbow injury prevented that. Given the injury was to his elbow and not his legs, Torain has a good chance of making some sort of impact immediately. This is the type of waiver pickup that could really pay off down the stretch.
WR:
Lance Moore/Robert Meachem/Devery Henderson - I would imagine all these guys are owned in your league, but with the way Brees is spreading the ball around with the absences of Colston and Shockey, all are worth owning, and possibly using depending on your WR3 situation.
Brandon Stokley - With the injuries to both Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler this weekend, Cutler needs some new targets to throw to other than Brandon Marshall. Stokley should emerge as his top secondary target, although do keep an eye on Darrell Jackson as well, if he even plays.
Mike Walker - Walker had a breakout game in week 5 with 6 catches for 107 yards. He's a talented speedster who has battled knee injuries, and he might have suffered another knee injury this past week, but he's someone to toss on your bench to see what happens. Matt Jones is also there, Jerry Porter is still working his way back, and the Jags will probably remain run-first despite the offensive line issues, but he's a solid upside WR5 guy. Just don't got wasting a high waiver pick on him unless you're really hurting at WR. Even then, I think Stokley is a better option, but Walker remains interesting.
Sinorice Moss - I know he scored 2 TDs last week, but Burress returns from his suspension this week, and the only reason Moss was targeted so much was the in-game injury to Dominik Hixon. Pass.
TE:
Zach Miller - You might have forgotten about him with the Raiders bye week in week 5, but he's worth picking up as a bye week/injury replacement.
Nate Jackson - Jackson will take the injured Scheffler's role as the pass catching TE in Denver's offense, so he's worth a look if you don't have a starter for this week.
Marc Bulger - If you have recent lost your QB2, someone like Jon Kitna, seriously consider an upside pick like Marc Bulger. Bulger won't return to his pre-2007 performance with the current state of the Rams offense, but like I said last week, I expect better things with the coaching change. The Rams never should have benched him to begin with.
Gus Frerotte - If someone like Bulger isn't available, you can try taking a shot with Frerotte. He looked solid last night. The Vikings will undoubtedly be a run first team, but Frerotte will be trusted to throw it deep to Berrian and Rice (when he returns). He showed last night that he's much more accurate with the deep ball than Jackson, and he should be able to take advantage of the defenses putting 8 in the box.
RB:
Justin Fargas - If for some reason he was dropped, get him. All indications point to him starting this week, and he should continue to start until he gets hurt again. McFadden still appears to be ailing, and the coaching staff apparently isn't thrilled with Michael Bush despite his impressive performances when given the chance.
Correll Buckhalter - All Westbrook owners need him anyways. If he was dropped with Westbrook returning last week, and you're either a Westbrook owner or someone in need of an RB2 this week, grab him. It would be stupid for Westbrook to play this week, and Buckhalter has a solid matchup against the 49ers in week 6.
Michael Pittman - If you can't get Buckhalter and are really hurting for an RB2 this week, it might be worth a shot to snag Pittman. Shanahanigans are in full effect this year, but Pittman is the Broncos' RB with the most value. He's getting the goal line carries, and he might be in line for more regular work if Young's groin is giving him problems.
Ryan Torain - If you drafted prior to Torain's elbow injury, he was dropped in redraft leagues. If you drafted after Torain's elbow injury, he wasn't drafted at all. If you have a spot that you're not doing much with, pick up Torain and wait for his possibly week 9 return. Torain had a serious shot at starting week 1 with a big preseason, but his elbow injury prevented that. Given the injury was to his elbow and not his legs, Torain has a good chance of making some sort of impact immediately. This is the type of waiver pickup that could really pay off down the stretch.
WR:
Lance Moore/Robert Meachem/Devery Henderson - I would imagine all these guys are owned in your league, but with the way Brees is spreading the ball around with the absences of Colston and Shockey, all are worth owning, and possibly using depending on your WR3 situation.
Brandon Stokley - With the injuries to both Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler this weekend, Cutler needs some new targets to throw to other than Brandon Marshall. Stokley should emerge as his top secondary target, although do keep an eye on Darrell Jackson as well, if he even plays.
Mike Walker - Walker had a breakout game in week 5 with 6 catches for 107 yards. He's a talented speedster who has battled knee injuries, and he might have suffered another knee injury this past week, but he's someone to toss on your bench to see what happens. Matt Jones is also there, Jerry Porter is still working his way back, and the Jags will probably remain run-first despite the offensive line issues, but he's a solid upside WR5 guy. Just don't got wasting a high waiver pick on him unless you're really hurting at WR. Even then, I think Stokley is a better option, but Walker remains interesting.
Sinorice Moss - I know he scored 2 TDs last week, but Burress returns from his suspension this week, and the only reason Moss was targeted so much was the in-game injury to Dominik Hixon. Pass.
TE:
Zach Miller - You might have forgotten about him with the Raiders bye week in week 5, but he's worth picking up as a bye week/injury replacement.
Nate Jackson - Jackson will take the injured Scheffler's role as the pass catching TE in Denver's offense, so he's worth a look if you don't have a starter for this week.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Week 6 - Walking Wounded
QB:
Trent Edwards - Edwards received a HUGE hit from Adrian Wilson in the first quarter yesterday, and was knocked out of the game with a concussion. Luckily he has the bye week to get better, and all indications are that he'll be ready to play when the Bills return to action in week 7.
Matt Schaub - Schaub was a gametime scratch from the starting lineup thanks to an illness that put him in the hospital on Saturday. Despite playing well for most of the game, Rosenfels lost the game for the Texans with a couple boneheaded plays at the end of the game. Schaub will resume starting in week 6.
Damon Huard - Huard did not look right at all during his abysmal week 5 performance, and indications are that he is hurt in some fashion. It is assumed that Brodie Croyle will resume starting in week 6.
Jon Kitna - It was originally reported that Kitna was removed at halftime due to poor performance, but apparently he was removed due to back spasms. His job security still remains a large question mark, and if he is your QB2, you need to seriously consider the waiver wire for a new backup.
Brian Griese - Griese was knocked out of his week 5 game with a bruised elbow which immediately caused swelling that the medical team could not help subside. His job security is again in question as he was ineffective up til that point, and he has thrown way too many interceptions since taking over for Jeff Garcia. Garcia could be starting again in week 6.
Carson Palmer/Ben Roethlisberger/Aaron Rodgers - All 3 QBs had uncertain injury situations leading up to week 5, but all 3 played and played well. Most notable here (injury aside) is Carson Palmer, who is continuing to disappoint in the stat line. It's a combination of 2 things: 1 is the fact that he and his WRs are not on the same page...he throws way too many passes into empty space where you presume a WR ran the wrong route. I can't imagine it's always the WR's fault, but Palmer, the WRs, and mostly the coaches have to be chastized for how often this happens. It's absolutely ridiculous. Palmer also had Chris Perry open twice for TDs in the redzone, but threw awful passes that both resulted in incompletions.
RB:
LaDainian Tomlinson - LT had his injured toe stepped on in week 5, and that caused yet another setback. Odds are that he'll either not practice or be limited, and then he'll suit up in week 6, but who knows exactly how productive he'll be. Still, there's no way you bench him.
Brian Westbrook - Well, just when Westbrook was looking good on his ankle...he breaks 2 ribs. The Eagles have a bye week in week 7 and could play it safe by keeping Westbrook on the shelf against the 49ers in week 6, but he'll likely be a gametime decision yet again.
Selvin Young - Young strained his groin in week 5, and could be on the injury report for week 6. He's nowhere close to fantasy value as the Denver backfield and the NE backfield are battling for the most muddled situations in all the NFL.
Justin Fargas - Fargas returned to practice on Monday and is likely to reclaim his starting job in week 6. The carry split between Fargas, McFadden (if his toe is healthy), and Bush should be monitored in week 6 as the new coaching staff and offensive direction might change.
WR:
Marvin Harrison - No new injury to report this yera, but Harrison just doesn't look right so far. It might be time to consider selling low off his name value and getting something a lesser named, but more productive WR.
Anquan Boldin - Boldin doesn't appear likely to play in week 6 despite positive reports regarding his surgery last week. I'll update again on Friday.
Chris Chambers - Chambers suffered a "lower leg injury" that knocked him out of week 5. The exact nature of this injury is unknown, so I'll update as soon as I know more.
Eddie Royal - Royal suffered some sort of sprained ankle, and he did not return in week 5. It's looking like he'll be out in week 6. I'll update for sure on Friday.
Deion Branch - Branch returned from his torn ACL this week...and promptly left again with a heel injury. Who knows how long he'll be out this time.
Brandon Lloyd - I completely missed him last week, so I apologize. He missed the game with a knee injury, and reports indicate that he'll be out a couple weeks. He probably has a knee sprain of some sort.
Marques Colston / Joey Galloway - Both are still out. Colston isn't due back for a couple of weeks, and it looks like Galloway might be out for a while still.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey is still out with hernia-ish surgery.
Tony Scheffler - Scheffler strained his groin in week 5, and he has already been ruled out for week 6. All his owners need to comb the waiver wire for a starting TE, possibly for the next 3 weeks as the Broncos have their bye in week 8.
Trent Edwards - Edwards received a HUGE hit from Adrian Wilson in the first quarter yesterday, and was knocked out of the game with a concussion. Luckily he has the bye week to get better, and all indications are that he'll be ready to play when the Bills return to action in week 7.
Matt Schaub - Schaub was a gametime scratch from the starting lineup thanks to an illness that put him in the hospital on Saturday. Despite playing well for most of the game, Rosenfels lost the game for the Texans with a couple boneheaded plays at the end of the game. Schaub will resume starting in week 6.
Damon Huard - Huard did not look right at all during his abysmal week 5 performance, and indications are that he is hurt in some fashion. It is assumed that Brodie Croyle will resume starting in week 6.
Jon Kitna - It was originally reported that Kitna was removed at halftime due to poor performance, but apparently he was removed due to back spasms. His job security still remains a large question mark, and if he is your QB2, you need to seriously consider the waiver wire for a new backup.
Brian Griese - Griese was knocked out of his week 5 game with a bruised elbow which immediately caused swelling that the medical team could not help subside. His job security is again in question as he was ineffective up til that point, and he has thrown way too many interceptions since taking over for Jeff Garcia. Garcia could be starting again in week 6.
Carson Palmer/Ben Roethlisberger/Aaron Rodgers - All 3 QBs had uncertain injury situations leading up to week 5, but all 3 played and played well. Most notable here (injury aside) is Carson Palmer, who is continuing to disappoint in the stat line. It's a combination of 2 things: 1 is the fact that he and his WRs are not on the same page...he throws way too many passes into empty space where you presume a WR ran the wrong route. I can't imagine it's always the WR's fault, but Palmer, the WRs, and mostly the coaches have to be chastized for how often this happens. It's absolutely ridiculous. Palmer also had Chris Perry open twice for TDs in the redzone, but threw awful passes that both resulted in incompletions.
RB:
LaDainian Tomlinson - LT had his injured toe stepped on in week 5, and that caused yet another setback. Odds are that he'll either not practice or be limited, and then he'll suit up in week 6, but who knows exactly how productive he'll be. Still, there's no way you bench him.
Brian Westbrook - Well, just when Westbrook was looking good on his ankle...he breaks 2 ribs. The Eagles have a bye week in week 7 and could play it safe by keeping Westbrook on the shelf against the 49ers in week 6, but he'll likely be a gametime decision yet again.
Selvin Young - Young strained his groin in week 5, and could be on the injury report for week 6. He's nowhere close to fantasy value as the Denver backfield and the NE backfield are battling for the most muddled situations in all the NFL.
Justin Fargas - Fargas returned to practice on Monday and is likely to reclaim his starting job in week 6. The carry split between Fargas, McFadden (if his toe is healthy), and Bush should be monitored in week 6 as the new coaching staff and offensive direction might change.
WR:
Marvin Harrison - No new injury to report this yera, but Harrison just doesn't look right so far. It might be time to consider selling low off his name value and getting something a lesser named, but more productive WR.
Anquan Boldin - Boldin doesn't appear likely to play in week 6 despite positive reports regarding his surgery last week. I'll update again on Friday.
Chris Chambers - Chambers suffered a "lower leg injury" that knocked him out of week 5. The exact nature of this injury is unknown, so I'll update as soon as I know more.
Eddie Royal - Royal suffered some sort of sprained ankle, and he did not return in week 5. It's looking like he'll be out in week 6. I'll update for sure on Friday.
Deion Branch - Branch returned from his torn ACL this week...and promptly left again with a heel injury. Who knows how long he'll be out this time.
Brandon Lloyd - I completely missed him last week, so I apologize. He missed the game with a knee injury, and reports indicate that he'll be out a couple weeks. He probably has a knee sprain of some sort.
Marques Colston / Joey Galloway - Both are still out. Colston isn't due back for a couple of weeks, and it looks like Galloway might be out for a while still.
TE:
Jeremy Shockey - Shockey is still out with hernia-ish surgery.
Tony Scheffler - Scheffler strained his groin in week 5, and he has already been ruled out for week 6. All his owners need to comb the waiver wire for a starting TE, possibly for the next 3 weeks as the Broncos have their bye in week 8.
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