| Pats denying offer to Lynch has been made | Wednesday 8/13, 11:56 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, it appears the stories of a contract offer were a bit premature. Patriots spokesman Stacey James would not confirm reports by The Denver Post and The Boston Globe that the team has worked out former Denver Broncos safety John Lynch . James said the team had not signed Lynch, according to NFL.com.
Our View: This doesn't mean too terribly much and fails to fully squash the report from ESPN earlier, claiming the deal was contingent on Lynch passing a physical. If those results come back tomorrow and are good, it seems the Pats are ready to add yet another veteran to the roster. The defensive backfield does need help, thus the move can't hurt. We'll keep you posted. |
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| Rodgers-Cromartie has ankle sprain | Wednesday 8/13, 11:55 PM CT |
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Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, the first-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals, has a mild ankle sprain and he should be able to play in the team's preseason game on Saturday, according to ProFootballTalk.com.
Our View: Good news for the Cardinals, as DRC brings an element of speed otherwise missing from the team's defense. |
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| McClure back at practice | Wednesday 8/13, 11:52 PM CT |
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Falcons center Todd Mcclure made his way back to the practice field after recovering from a back injury he suffered while stretching, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: McClure will be the starting center for Atlanta, thus his health is important because their offensive line is already marginal. Fantasy owners are counting on him to help open up holes for Michael Turner and keep pass rushers off whoever the quarterback is so Roddy White can get some receptions. |
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| Griffin progressing nicely in Tennessee | Wednesday 8/13, 11:38 PM CT |
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Reports out of Tennessee suggest the team is beyond happy with the progress safety Michael Griffin , giving the Titans reason to think their secondary will be better in its second year with the current base personnel, according to ESPN. He and strong safety Chris Hope are developing communication and trust that will be crucial to the Titans' secondary play.
Our View: The team believes his time a cornerback, covering for the loss of Adam "PacMan" Jones, is how Griffin has prepared for his job now. He is quicker, showing better instincts, and has a nose for the football. If the reports hold water, Griffin could be a player of value to target in your IDP leagues. Keep him in mind on draft day. |
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| Ravens still struggling to identify QB | Wednesday 8/13, 11:28 PM CT |
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Via telecast, Sal Paolantonio has filed a report from Baltimore Ravens training camp stating the coaching staff is no closer to selecting a starting quarterback for Week 1 of the regular season, but (a) the veteran players on the team are quietly supporting Troy Smith, (b) offensive coordinator Cam Cameron appears to lean Kyle Boller, and (c) an unnamed source from the organization suggests rookie Joe Flacco will not be receiving consideration for the job, according to ESPN.
Our View: Boller turned the ball over three times in the Ravens' preseason opener, but he'll have three more chances to showcase improvement. If he does not, Smith may get a shot at it. While ESPN reports Flacco will not get consideration for Week 1, the absence of commitment to hold him out all season long seems to suggest the Ravens could turn to the rookie later in the season if both Boller and Smith fail to impress. Stay tuned. |
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| Hawk will miss preseason game | Wednesday 8/13, 11:26 PM CT |
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Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk has an injury to his chest and he will not play in the Packers preseason game against the 49ers, according to Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy at Packers.com. The injury occurred during last week's preseason game.
Our View: McCarthy went on to say that Hawk might not even play if it were a regular season game, but he declined to give further information on the malady. |
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| Timmons, Foote top position battles at Pittsburgh | Wednesday 8/13, 11:11 PM CT |
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Reports from the Steel City indicate the team is enjoyin the position battle being waged at linebacker, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review. The combatants: up and coming youngster Lawrence Timmons and incumbent starter Larry Foote.
Our View: Foote, a former fourth-round draft pick from Michigan entering his seventh NFL season, has made 64 consecutive regular-season starts and ranked third on the team last year with 69 tackles. Timmons, 22, is six years younger than Foote, and his closing speed makes him a legitimate threat as a playmaker. The 6-1, 234-pounder is expected to play considerably more this season. Early reports give the edge to Foote, but that could change. Stay tuned. |
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| X-Rays negative for Asomugha | Wednesday 8/13, 11:06 PM CT |
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X-Rays taken on the injured foot of Oakland Raiders corner Nnamdi Asomugha were negative, according to the Oakland Tribune. "Right now it hurts when I walk," Asomugha commented. "It definitely hurts breaking on the football. I?ll continue to be limited in whatever I?m doing but I don?t think it?s a big issue."
Our View: Asomugha will continue to practice but plans to take it "easy" as the team moves forward. If the plan changes, we'll let you know. |
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| Coles... not digging Favre | Wednesday 8/13, 9:08 PM CT |
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While the fans in New York are slobbering to get in line for jerseys and the rest of the world seems happy to have Brett Favre with the Jets, it appears top wideout Laveranues Coles doesn't share the sentiment, according to Pro Football Talk. Sources indicate the two veterans got off on the wrong foot, believing Coles was close to Pennington and felt Favre had manipulated his way into the new digs. The two met to talk behind closed doors and, when asked, Coles refused comment, prefering to deal with it internally. Apparently Favre didn't agreed and aired the full context of the discussion and his perception of the situation to the press, and now PFT reports team sources believe this decision will make things worse.
Our View: The report from PFT suggests Coles’ silence isn’t about the fact that the team traded for Favre. It’s about the fact that the team rewarded Pennington’s loyalty and service by throwing him out the door. Thus it would seem Coles views Favre as an egomaniac and a force out of control, and his attempt to clear the air found nothing but further reports to the public by Favre. PFT reports unnamed team sources are now worried that the relationship is strained beyond repair and could have negative effects moving forward. We'll track the situation, but needless to say these two are having trouble finding common ground. |
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| Williams likely done for the year | Wednesday 8/13, 8:31 PM CT |
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Bears GM Jerry Angelo might not agree, but John Clayton is reporting rookie tackle Chris Williams is, for all intents and purposes, done for the season, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: The surgery recently completed to repair a herniated disc in Williams' back is not an easy recovery, and it seems difficult to believe the Bears won't view the investment as one to protect rather than push. Clayton notes it's likely the Bears will keep him on the roster like they did with Rex Grossman a couple of years ago, with the hope he could be available in late November or December. Still, the chances of him doing anything for the team this year are not good. |
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| Pass physical & Lynch becomes a Patriot | Wednesday 8/13, 8:27 PM CT |
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The interest in veteran safety John Lynch has become a contract offer, and now the Patriots report they are simply awaiting the results of a physical to sign Lynch on the dotted line, according to John Clayton of ESPN.com.
Our View: As Clayton notes, the need for a hard-hitting situational safety was created last weekend when safety Tank Williams was lost for the season with a knee injury. Lynch can fit into packages that would allow him to play 10, 15 or 20 plays a game. Belichick is the best at figuring out ways to use veterans and not wear them out. He did the same with Junior Seau, who enjoyed his Patriots experience so much that he'd love to come back. Once it's done, we'll let you know it is official. |
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| Smith deals with tragedy | Wednesday 8/13, 8:11 PM CT |
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Unfortunately, 49ers quarterback Alex Smith's best friend committed suicide over the weekend, according to the Sacramento Bee. Smith will miss practice on Friday to attend services, which will be held in the backyard of Smith's parents home.
Our View: Smith and the young man, David Edwards, were extremely close, so he is struggling through a difficult period right now. Smith is still planning on playing in Saturday's preseason contest against Green Bay. |
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| Fowler moving on from steroid allegations | Wednesday 8/13, 7:59 PM CT |
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Tennessee linebacker Ryan Fowler considers his steroids case with the NFL closed, according to the Associated Press. Fowler said Wednesday he hasn't heard from the league since requesting a meeting to address allegations that he bought performance-enhancing drugs from a Texas-based steroids dealer in 2006. The NFL sent him a letter in June stating he faced an investigation and possible suspension. Fowler said he assumes the probe has ended with no punishment planned.
Our View: Fowler was linked to convicted steroids dealer David Jacobs, who was found dead with a female companion in his Plano, Texas, home in June in what police called a murder-suicide. Jacobs told The Dallas Morning News before he died that he had supplied Fowler with drugs before and after the 2006 season, and he gave the NFL names of players who bought steroids from him. The NFL did not immediately respond to an e-mail from The Associated Press. |
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| Johnson excelling | Wednesday 8/13, 7:57 PM CT |
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It is not unexpected, but Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is making a great showing in training camp so far, according to ESPN.com. The report details how impressive the size and speed of Johnson is after an offseason of working out.
Our View: Johnson could be in store for a huge year. Though many said his initial season in the league was a bit of a disappointment, he still hauled in 48 passes for 756 yards, four receiving touchdowns and one rushing touchdown. It's not a reach to pencil him in as a No. 2 receiver on fantasy squads. |
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| Bunkley robbed of firearms | Wednesday 8/13, 7:44 PM CT |
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Philadelphia defensive tackle Brodrick Bunkley was robbed of five guns and electronic equipment when his home was broken into over the weekend, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. The paper listed the stolen items as three game consoles, a camcorder, an Armalite rifle, a custom made .223-caliber rifle, a .45-caliber Glock handgun and two Desert Eagle .50-caliber handguns.
Our View: Bunkley, who has been away from camp for two days, had the firearms registered, so it does not appear he is in legal trouble. The police reported that they did have evidence, so hopefully the guns can be recovered. |
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| Talks or no talks with Jackson? | Wednesday 8/13, 7:29 PM CT |
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While the St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting phenom rusher Steven Jackson , in the midst of a 19-day holdout, and the Rams have had "low-key conversations" concerning a plan to resolve their differences, reports from sources inside the organization submit no such talks have taken place and that the Rams have in fact had no talks of any kind with Jackson or his representatives, according to Pro Football Talk.
Our View: PFT reports that since the Rams stated negotiations wouldn’t continue until Jackson reports for camp, agent Eugene Parker has not been in contact with the team. Regardless of whether there have or haven’t been “low-key talks,” it appears that both sides still have a long way to go before resolving this dispute. |
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| Burnett misses practice | Wednesday 8/13, 7:10 PM CT |
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Cowboys linebacker Kevin Burnett missed practice today and is suffering from a sprained left knee, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: There is no timetable for Burnett's return, and it is possible he may miss the team's preseason game on Saturday. |
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| Nalen struggling to return | Wednesday 8/13, 6:52 PM CT |
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Injured center and perennial Pro Bowl invitee Tom Nalen is struggling to regain health, leading some to question if he will be able to return at all, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: Nalen has not practiced with the team since last month, but a recent MRI showed there's no structural damage to the knee. Denver is counting on Nalen to be ready for the season opener, and missing preseason games isn't a big deal for the 15-year veteran. Sources say, though, there's no telling how long the knee issue will linger. Nalen, 37, has solidified the offensive line for a long time and there would be a huge void in terms of leadership and knowledge of the offense if he can't get over this ailment. That makes the Broncos feel all the more fortunate for having signed C Casey Wiegmann in the offseason. Wiegmann is one of the league's true iron men, having started all but one game since 2001. Word is he has adjusted well to Denver's zone scheme and there shouldn't be a huge drop-off in production if Nalen's unable to play by Week 1. |
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| Neal fitting in well with Ravens | Wednesday 8/13, 6:47 PM CT |
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Newly-acquired fullback (and future Hall of Fame candidate) Lorenzo Neal is making a strong impression in his first days with the Baltimore Ravens, according to ESPN.com. After being cut by the San Diego Chargers in February, the 37-year-old Neal was virtually ignored despite making it clear he had no desire to retire. The 5-foot-11, 255-pounder stayed in excellent shape, and finally began preparing his return to the NFL after taking a call from Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome about a week and a half ago. Reports today indicate he is up to his old tricks, opening tremendous rushing lanes for several of the Ravens' running backs in practices today (not including Willis McGahee, hampered by injury).
Our View: Without the injury for McGahee, the Ravens might have missed this opportunity. Looke at LaDainian Tomlinson's efforts over his career in San Diego, enjoying the work of Neal, and you'll understand just how effective this bull-rushing fullback can be... and you may wonder why the Chargers pushed him along. |
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| Dockett's playing time could decrease | Wednesday 8/13, 6:39 PM CT |
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Darnell Dockett will be pushed for playing time by Arizona's rookie defensive ends, Calais Campbell and Kenny Iwebema, according to Pro Football Weekly. The two rookies have performed well, and Dockett is an undisciplined player who continually gets flagged for ill-timed penalties.
Our View: Dockett wants a new contract, and he'll need to settle down if he really wants to get paid. Meanwhile, Campbell was a potential first-round talent who slipped to the second round, and should see significant playing time. |
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| Bills may lose Murphy for the season | Wednesday 8/13, 6:37 PM CT |
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Buffalo offensive tackle Matt Murphy has suffered a partial tear in his left rotator cuff, but a decision regarding season ending surgery may not be made for another two weeks, according to ESPN.com.
Our View: Agent Kevin Fitzpatrick told The Associated Press that there's a possibility the rotator cuff could heal enough to allow Murphy to play and delay surgery until the end of the season. Murphy was hurt Monday during an 11-on-11 drill during a training camp session at Saint John Fisher College in suburban Rochester. Murphy had to be taken to a local hospital to be checked out. The Bills are already down to three tackles and Pro Bowl left tackle Jason Peters is holding out for a new contract. |
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| Browns lose Rucker for 4 to 6 weeks | Wednesday 8/13, 6:33 PM CT |
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Cleveland rookie tight end Martin Rucker will miss 4 to 6 weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Rucker twisted his knee during practice Monday. He will have a piece of cartilage removed from the knee on Thursday, Browns coach Romeo Crennel said Wednesday. The Browns have struggled during training camp with injuries at tight end, though Kellen Winslow (hamstring) and Steve Heiden (knee) returned to team drills this week. Rucker was a consensus first team All-American in 2007 and set Missouri's reception record with 84 receptions for 834 yards and eight touchdowns. He also set the school career record with 203 receptions. Thus far he was impressive in training camp and the team's first preseason game, catching five passes for 70 yards, and as such there were rumblings that he could make a move to the #2 spot on the depth chart. Now, we will wait and see if he can return quickly and pick up where he left off. |
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| Henderson fighting for roster spot | Wednesday 8/13, 6:32 PM CT |
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Saints wide out Devery Henderson is in a battle for a roster spot because Robert Meachem has performed so well as the team's deep threat, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: Henderson had just 20 catches last season, with an average of 20.5 yards per reception. The story for fantasy purposes is Meachem, however. If he continues his stellar play in the preseason, he should be someone that fantasy owners think long and hard about grabbing in drafts. |
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| Milloy wants extension | Wednesday 8/13, 6:11 PM CT |
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Falcons safety Lawyer Milloy would like a contract extension of at least one year from the team, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: Milloy is 35 years of age, and he is being asked to not only play well, but teach the younger players the nuances of the game. Milloy is making $1.7 million this year. |
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| Team excited about Smith | Wednesday 8/13, 6:05 PM CT |
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The Detroit Lions are excited about the progress of rookie running back Kevin Smith, and he is currently atop the depth chart, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: The Lions say they are absolutely committed to running the ball no matter what this season, so Smith should get significant carries. He should be seen as a number three fantasy back. |
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| Johnson may not be long for Dallas | Wednesday 8/13, 5:59 PM CT |
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The Dallas Cowboys may not utilize Brad Johnson as the back-up quarterback this season as he has not looked good so far, according to Pro Football Weekly. The team is currently exploring other options, such as Chris Simms, Josh McCown and John Beck.
Our View: Johnson actually makes Chad Pennington look like he has a cannon for an arm. If a quarterback can't get the ball to the receiver, it will be difficult to have a passing game, so the Cowboys are doing their due diligence in the unfortunate event of a Tony Romo injury. |
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| Holloway released | Wednesday 8/13, 5:52 PM CT |
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With the signing of linebacker Brandon Moore, the Arizona Cardinals felt that David Holloway was expendable, and released him today, according to Pro Football Weekly.
Our View: Holloway was only going to be depth, and his release does not affect the Cardinals D/ST in terms of fantasy value. |
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| Rolle to miss game | Wednesday 8/13, 5:30 PM CT |
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Cardinals safety Antrel Rolle will likely miss the team's preseason game against Chiefs as he is still recovering from a sore foot, according to the East Valley Tribune.
Our View: Rolle was injured while fielding a punt. For a guy trying to learn a new position, it probably wasn't the wisest thing to have him out there in that capacity, as he will need all the reps he can get in order to adjust as quickly as possible to safety. |
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| Hasselbeck probably won't play in preseason game | Wednesday 8/13, 4:24 PM CT |
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Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is still nursing a sore back, and he has sat out three practices in a row, making it highly unlikely he will play in the team's preseason game Saturday against the Bears, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
Our View: This is likely just a precautionary move, as the injury is supposedly minor. Hasselbeck missing one preseason game isn't going to affect him during the season. |
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| Garcia likely won't play | Wednesday 8/13, 4:18 PM CT |
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It is doubtful that Tampa Bay quarterback Jeff Garcia will play in the team's preseason game Sunday against New England because he is still suffering from a strained calf, according to PewterReport.com.
Our View: Bucs coach Jon Gruden wants Garcia to be able to practice before throwing him in a game, so until that happens, expect Garcia to be sidelined. |
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| Williams closer to returning | Wednesday 8/13, 4:15 PM CT |
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Tampa running back Cadillac Williams is getting ever closer to returning to the team as he progresses from ACL surgery, according to PewterReport.com. "He's getting really close. I can't tell you how excited we are about how far he's come in such a short period of time," Bucs coach Jon Gruden said.
Our View: Earnest Graham just got a new contract, and the team also has Michael Bennett and Warrick Dunn on the roster, so when Williams does come back, Tampa will probably utilize the dreaded running back-by-committee approach. |
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| Jones asks for reinstatement | Wednesday 8/13, 4:07 PM CT |
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Pacman Jones has sent a letter to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell asking for his reinstatement to the league, according to the Dallas Morning News. "It's just a letter why I feel I should be reinstated. It's my chance to respond and we'll see how it goes," he said.
Our View: After missing all of last season due to suspension, Jones isn't actually back in the league. It is expected that he will be reinstated, but one more slip-up and he could be gone forever. |
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| Pennington contract details | Wednesday 8/13, 2:58 PM CT |
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Chad Pennington's two-year deal with the Dolphins is worth $7.9 million, according to ProFootballTalkc.com. He will make $4 million in 2008. It’s a $2 million reduction in what he was due to earn from the Jets.
Our View: If the Dolphins find a better option to start in 2009, they could release Pennington next spring. |
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| Samuel is fully recovered | Wednesday 8/13, 2:33 PM CT |
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Asante Samuel believes he is fully recovered from the hamstring ailment that confined him to the sidelines for most of training camp, according to the Eagles.com.
Our View: Samuel will make his Eagles' debut Thursday as the starting left cornerback. Sheldon Brown is slated to start on the right side, with Lito Sheppard working in a nickel role. Coach Andy Reid hopes to get a full half out of Samuel, who hauled in six interceptions in his final campaign with New England in 2007. |
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| Jimoh signs with Patriots | Wednesday 8/13, 2:27 PM CT |
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Ade Jimoh has signed with the Patriots, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: Jimoh holds his most value on special teams and won't see much action in the Patriots' rotation at cornerback if he makes the team. |
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| Lynch visiting Patriots | Wednesday 8/13, 2:22 PM CT |
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Free agent safety John Lynch is visiting the Patriots, according to the Boston Globe. He was released by the Broncos August 1.
Our View: The Patriots are thin in the secondary right now due to injuries, and Lynch would help ease the loss of Tank Williams, who is done for the season due to a knee injury. He would provide value to the team, but would not challenge for a starting job, hence keeping his fantasy stock low. |
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| Jets claim Green | Wednesday 8/13, 2:17 PM CT |
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Justin Green has been claimed off waivers by the Jets, according to ESPN Insider. He was released by the Ravens.
Our View: Jets' O.C. Brian Schottenheimer coveted a pass-catching fullback for his aerial attack, and Green should fit in well. He should serve as a backup to Tony Richardson, and will make it harder for Jesse Chatman and Musa Smith to make the final roster. |
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| Favre admits to tired arm | Wednesday 8/13, 2:04 PM CT |
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Brett Favre admitted that his arm is feeling tired following Wednesday's practice, according to the NY Daily News. Favre said his "arm is kind of dragging a bit" and that he planned to ask coach Eric Mangini to limit his throws in the second practice session of the day. Favre went 3-for-4 in the 7-on-7 drill Wednesday, and was 9-for-16 in the 11-on-11, including one touchdown, which connected with Brad Smith for 53 yards. He also threw one interception.
Our View: Fantasy owners should not be concerned with Favre's arm unless he is unable to play in the Jets' next preseason game. Favre has been taking a lot of snaps as he learns the Jets' offense. |
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| Ryan may be named starter | Wednesday 8/13, 1:55 PM CT |
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Sports Illustrated states that the Falcons are leaning toward naming rookie Matt Ryan their starting quarterback. He enjoyed a solid preseason debut against the Jaguars, as he completed 9-of-15 passes for 117 yards with a touchdown pass.
Our View: The team is less likely to play it safe with Chris Redman as the starter, and appear content to let Ryan start right away. |
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| Falcons to honor Horn's trade wish? | Wednesday 8/13, 1:49 PM CT |
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Sports Illustrated reports that the Falcons plan to honor Joe Horn's wishes to he traded when he fully recovers from his nagging hamstring ailment.
Our View: Horn, who has a $2.5 million guaranteed base salary this year, won't bring much value in return.
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| Rudi intends to practice tonight | Wednesday 8/13, 1:42 PM CT |
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Rudi Johnson, who is recovering from a sore hamstring, intends to practice Wednesday night, according to Bengals.com. He missed about two weeks due to the ailment. Johnson stated the hamstring tightened up on him after he went through the heavy running of the first two sets of two-a-day practices during the first week of training camp. He said he brought it back slow because he believes he came back too soon from the hamstring injury he suffered in the third game of the regular season last year.
Our View: Johnson also plans to play in this weekend's preseason game. If healthy, Johnson would serve as a solid No. 2 fantasy running back, and could slip in fantasy drafts and be acquired as a No. 3 option. |
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| Bryant standing out | Wednesday 8/13, 1:03 PM CT |
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Antonio Bryant is standing out in Buccaneers' camp, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Coach Jon Gruden said, "Antonio Bryant is the one guy I think from a talent standpoint, he's picking it up. We need more guys to do that."
Our View: Bryant has a legit shot to nail down the starting job opposite Joey Galloway, and is an intriguing fantasy prospect for 2008, namely as he racked up 1,009 receiving yards with Cleveland back in 2005. |
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| Charles is having fumbling issues | Wednesday 8/13, 12:56 PM CT |
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Jamaal Charles is having issues with fumbling in training camp, according to the KC Star. He also slipped on grass still wet from a morning rain today when he had some open field ahead.
Our View: Charles had trouble holding onto the ball on the collegiate level at Texas, and could fall out of contention for the primary backup job at running back behind starter Larry Johnson if he doesn't learn to secure the ball better. |
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| Flacco's snaps limited | Wednesday 8/13, 12:34 PM CT |
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The Ravens have limited Joe Flacco's practice snaps, according to ESPN Insider.
Our View: Flacco has struggled in training camp and has fallen to third on the Ravens' depth chart at quarterback behind Troy Smith and Kyle Boller. Flacco should be avoided in fantasy drafts. |
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| Davis predicting career year | Wednesday 8/13, 12:28 PM CT |
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Thomas Davis is predicting to have a career year following his move from the strongside to the weakside at linebacker, according to the Gaston Gazette. He said, "I definitely feel like this is going to be best year by far. So watch out."
Our View: Davis made 88 tackles last season, and should have no problem topping 100 if he remains healthy over the full 16-game slate as a starting weakside linebacker. He ranks as a safe and solid sleeper for IDP leagues. |
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| Birk sits with stomach virus | Wednesday 8/13, 12:00 PM CT |
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Center Matt Birk missed practice on Wednesday due to a stomach virus, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Our View: The Vikings should probably be giving the 32-year-old Pro Bowler an occasional day off as it is. We're obviously not worried about his status. |
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| Ravens add Heinrich | Wednesday 8/13, 11:05 AM CT |
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The Ravens have signed former Buccaneers' tight end Keith Heinrich, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: Heinrich will battle for the No. 3 role at tight end, and will hold no fantasy value if he makes the team, barring injuries. |
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| Scheffler practicing twice a day | Wednesday 8/13, 10:59 AM CT |
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Tony Scheffler, who is trying to bounce back from a foot injury, is practicing twice a day in training camp, according to the Denver Post.
Our View: Scheffler looks to be healthy for Week 1, and his fantasy stock is back on the rise. He could be relied upon more with Brandon Marshall suspended for the first three games, and is worth drafting as a top-12 fantasy tight end, with potential to crack the top-10. |
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| Morton released | Wednesday 8/13, 10:53 AM CT |
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Christian Morton has been released by the Broncos, according to The Sporting News. The team signed Tyrone Poole, and dropped Morton to make room on the roster.
Our View: Morton had little to no chance to make the Broncos' final roster. |
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| Broncos ink Poole | Wednesday 8/13, 10:49 AM CT |
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Tyrone Poole has signed with the Broncos, according to The Sporting News. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Our View: The Broncos added him strictly for depth in the secondary, with starters Champ Bailey (hamstring) and Hamza Abdullah (groin) both out of action due to injuries. |
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| Brohm praised | Wednesday 8/13, 10:44 AM CT |
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GM Ted Thompson likes rookie Brian Brohm, and is content with him as the No. 2 quarterback behind Aaron Rodgers, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. But Thompson will still leave the door open for a veteran signal-caller. The current unemployed list includes Daunte Culpepper, Tim Rattay, Tim Hasselbeck, Jamie Martin, Kelly Holcomb, David Greene, and Craig Nall. Thompson added that a lot can happen between now and the regular season.
Our View: This is encouraging news for Brohm, but the rookie won't hold any fantasy value unless Rodgers gets hurt or gravely struggles as the starter. |
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| Stewart may play Thursday | Wednesday 8/13, 10:35 AM CT |
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Coach John Fox indicated that rookie Jonathan Stewart may see action in Thursday's preseason contest against Philadelphia, according to the Rock Hill Herald. Stewart was still experiencing some pain in his surgically repaired toe last week.
Our View: Stewart needs to play and cannot afford not to, with only three weeks left to earn a solid role in the Panthers' offense. DeAngelo Williams remains the leader for the starting job. |
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| Johnson could be option at safety? | Wednesday 8/13, 10:21 AM CT |
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Rookie Tyrell Johnson could be an option to replace Madieu Williams at safety if the Vikings don't go outside the organization for help, according to the Star Tribune. As for potential free agents, Greg Wesley was released by Oakland this week. Johnson said he feels "well prepared" to assume a starting role. He added, "All I have to do is just learn a few things about the free safety and I'll jump right in there if they need me to."
Our View: Johnson is a very physical player and performed well in run and pass support on the collegiate level at Arkansas State. The team views him as a future starter, and may ultimately decide to throw him in there right away. Madieu Williams isn't expected back before Week 4 of the regular season, potentially giving Johnson solid fantasy value for the first three weeks. |
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| Belichick praises Mayo | Wednesday 8/13, 10:01 AM CT |
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Coach Bill Belichick continues to praise rookie linebacker Jerod Mayo, according to the Boston Globe. Belichick said, "Jerod is a smart kid and has worked hard. From day one when we drafted him to rookie minicamp and spring camp, he has done a good job. He is a very mature kid and a hard worker. Football is important to him, and he spends a lot of time on it. He makes a lot of rookie mistakes, but he learns from them and doesn't repeat many of them."
Our View: Jerod Mayo is believed to have the inside track for the starting job on the inside next Tedy Bruschi, especially with veteran Victor Hobson (formely of the Jets) failing to pick up the defense and make a smooth transition from the outside to the inside. Mayo could prove to be a solid IDP sleeper for 2008. |
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| Sanders returns | Wednesday 8/13, 9:55 AM CT |
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James Sanders has returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since July 28, according to the Boston Globe. Brandon Meriwather said, "James is one of the leaders of the team, so of course any time you have a leader come back, it's a good thing."
Our View: The Patriots are pleased to have him back, especially with Rodney Harrison, Jason Webster, Jonathan Wilhite, Mike Richardson, and Lewis Sanders all banged up in the secondary.
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| Jackson sets lofty goals | Wednesday 8/13, 9:36 AM CT |
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Dexter Jackson has set lofty goals for 2008, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. The veteran safety said, "I honestly feel like we can be a top-10 defense this year. We need to do the little things right. We had problems with tackling last year, and a great defense doesn't miss tackles."
Our View: He is competing with second-year pro Chinedum Ndukwe for the starting gig at strong safety. Ndukwe should unseat Jackson for the job at some point this season, if not for Week 1, and ranks as a strong IDP sleeper at the position for 2008. |
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| Davis off to slow start | Wednesday 8/13, 9:15 AM CT |
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Rookie Bruce Davis is off to a slow start with the Steelers, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Coach Mike Tomlin said, "He was active, not to be confused with productive [against the Eagles]. He is a young guy with a lot of energy and desire. He's playing catch-up and he has to catch up in a hurry this week. I'm pleased with his approach, but I need to see some results."
Our View: He enjoyed a solid career as a defensive end at UCLA, but projects as a "tweener" in the NFL. He has a shot to compete for a solid role in the future, but shouldn't make much of an impact as a rookie. |
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| Townsend out versus Buffalo | Wednesday 8/13, 9:04 AM CT |
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Deshea Townsend will not play in the Steelers' next preseason game against the Bills due to a groin injury, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: Bryant McFadden will replace Townsend in the starting lineup for the game. The injury is not believed to be serious, and Townsend should not be in jeopardy of losing his starting job for 2008. |
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| Chiefs interested in Feely | Wednesday 8/13, 9:00 AM CT |
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The KC Star indicates that the Chiefs are interested in kicker Jay Feely, who was recently released by the Dolphins.
Our View: Nick Novak and Connor Barth have fared well on field goal attempts during camp, but the team is not content with depending on a kicker with limited NFL experience. Feely has plenty of experience, as he kicked for the Falcons, Giants, and the aforementioned Dolphins. Feely was accurate in 2007, as he hit 21-of-23 field goal attempts. |
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| Brown is back | Wednesday 8/13, 8:37 AM CT |
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Chris Brown has returned to practice after dealing with a sore back, and he feels good and more than ready to participate in Saturday's preseason game against the Saints, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: Brown now needs to play catch-up while competing behind Ahman Green, Chris Taylor, Darius Walker, and rookie Steve Slaton for a spot on the Texans' final roster. |
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| Daniels looking to increase production | Wednesday 8/13, 8:32 AM CT |
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Owen Daniels has improved his production each of his last two seasons as the Texans' starting tight end, and he is looking to raise his numbers even higher in 2008, according to the Houston Chronicle. He said, "Hopefully, I can help more in the red zone receiving and blocking. We need to run the ball better in the red zone. If we can, it’ll open up the passing game more and, hopefully, open things for me working the middle of the field. I improved last season, but I want to be more consistent. I feel pretty comfortable with what we’re doing." Coach Gary Kubiak added, "He’s a much better player from the receiving end. The thing I’ve been impressed with is that he’s better along the line of scrimmage than he has been. That’s probably the thing that’s kept him from getting some of the respect some of these other tight ends get. If he continues to develop in that area, he can be even better than he already is."
Our View: Daniels registered 63 receptions for 768 yards and three touchdowns in 2007, and could emerge as a top-10 fantasy tight end if he continues to improve and reaches the end zone more frequently. |
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| Atogwe returns | Wednesday 8/13, 8:21 AM CT |
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Oshiomogho Atogwe took part in his first practice since July 28 on Tuesday, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Atogwe was limited but he said, "It felt good to be back out there with pads on and hitting a couple of people. I'm just focused on getting all the way back healthy so that when the season-opener comes around, I'm ready to go full-steam." He missed most of training camp with a pulled hamstring.
Our View: He participated in the morning but sat out the afternoon practice for precautionary reasons. If healthy, Atogwe ranks as a solid No. 2 defensive back for IDP leagues. |
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| Jackson holdout update | Wednesday 8/13, 8:16 AM CT |
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Steven Jackson's holdout has reached 19 days as of Tuesday afternoon, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He has missed 22 practices, as well as the preseason opener against Tennessee. It marks the longest holdout in the 14-year history of the St. Louis Rams.
Our View: There have been low-key talks in the last day or two between Rams' president of football operations-general manager Jay Zygmunt and Jackson's agent, Eugene Parker. That's the first disclosure of any dialogue between the parties since the first day of training camp on July 25. The Rams' last known offer was seven years for around $50 million, with about one-third of the $50 million believed to be in guaranteed money.
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| Doucet doubtful | Wednesday 8/13, 8:02 AM CT |
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Early Doucet is doubtful for Saturday's preseason game against the Chiefs due to his hamstring ailment, according to the Arizona Republic. He suffered the injury a week ago, and is yet to return to practice.
Our View: The injury is compromising his bid for the No. 3 role at receiver. Steve Breaston remains the top candidate for the slot role, but is being pushed by Jerheme Urban. The Cardinals hope Doucet can return to practice next week and play in the final two games of the preseason. |
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| Battle strains hamstring | Wednesday 8/13, 7:43 AM CT |
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Arnaz Battle strained his hamstring during practice Tuesday, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: The team did not disclose the severity of the ailment. Projected starter Bryant Johnson is also still out due to his hamstring ailment. |
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| Hall has broken bone | Wednesday 8/13, 7:39 AM CT |
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DeAngelo Hall said he has a broken bone in his right hand and would like to give the injury time to heal, according to the SF Chronicle. But he added that decision isn't his to make, so Hall practiced with a thick cast on it for the second straight day. He remarked, "It affects everything. I've got a little broken bone in there. I don't even feel like I should even be out here practicing on it or even going into preseason. But it's something that no one else seems to feel like it's affecting everything, so I'm out there practicing and playing the game."
Our View: Hall took most of the first-team snaps during practice Tuesday, and made another interception, and has impressed the Raiders with his ability to play through pain. |
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| Hagler out until October | Wednesday 8/13, 7:05 AM CT |
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Tyjuan Hagler, who is dealing with a torn pectoral muscle, isn't expected back until October at the earliest, according to the Indianapolis Star.
Our View: Hagler was projected to start at strongside linebacker this season, but now the job is up for grabs. |
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