| No suspension for Barnett | Tuesday 8/19, 11:47 PM CT |
|
Nick Barnett will not need to serve a one-game suspension and miss the season opener. The NFL handed him the sentence after he plead guilty to two counts of disorderly conduct, but the league dropped that one-game ban after he appealed it, the Green Bay Press-Gazette notes. Barnett will still need to a pay a fine equal to one game check, which comes to $117,647.
Our View: The one-game ban would have hurt Barnett's IDP value a small bit, but he remains one of the better linebacker picks. |
|
| Tyler takes over starting job | Tuesday 8/19, 11:43 PM CT |
|
Tank Tyler has replaced Ron Edwards as a starting defensive tackle, the Kansas City Star reports. The 2007 third-round pick will work alongside prized rookie Glenn Dorsey.
Our View: The Chiefs continue to inject more youth into their defense, which is being remade to suit Herm Edwards's style. Tyler is a promising prospect, but he doesn't have any IDP value. |
|
| Wilcox eager to play | Tuesday 8/19, 11:10 PM CT |
|
Daniel Wilcox is pushing to play in the final two preseason games. He came off the PUP list on Friday. "I don't feel like I'm where I need to be," Wilcox tells the Baltimore Sun. "I've got a lot of learning to do, I've got a lot of running to do and a lot of cutting before I can declare myself to be in football shape and hitting shape." He underwent surgery in January to repair a sprained big left toe.
Our View: Wilcox likely realizes that the door is open for playing time. Todd Heap has been out due to a calf injury, and Quinn Sypniewski (knee) is out for the year. Cam Cameron typically likes to use his tight ends, but he doesn't have much to work with at the moment. |
|
| Boldin practices despite trade request | Tuesday 8/19, 10:40 PM CT |
|
Anquan Boldin practiced on Tuesday despite the rift with his head coach and his request to be traded. "It's a tough situation, especially when you come into a working environment," Boldin tells the AP. "But my job is to stay professional. I'm going to do what I'm supposed to do." The disgruntled receiver says he does not believe his issues with the team can be resolved.
Our View: It goes without saying that fantasy owners should be glued to this situation. Boldin is a high-end fantasy receiver, and the two sides appear to be at an impasse. We'll obviously be following this story closely. For the record, Steve Breaston would likely stand to start if Boldin left camp or was traded. |
|
| Castillo improving | Tuesday 8/19, 10:33 PM CT |
|
Luis Castillo is hoping to play in the Monday night preseason game against the Seahawks. The defensive end has missed the last 10 days due to a sore back, but he stepped up his work on Tuesday. "(Castillo) didn’t go through anything that was physically demanding but he was able to get through a practice this morning and it was good," head coach Norv Turner tells the team's official web site.
Our View: Castillo isn't much help in IDP leagues, but he is a solid cog in one of the best fantasy defenses. |
|
| Smith still aiming at starting job | Tuesday 8/19, 10:31 PM CT |
|
Alex Smith still believes he is competing for the starting job, even though J.T. O'Sullivan will start his third straight preseason game on Thursday. "They haven't said otherwise, so absolutely. I'm going out there treating it like that. You have to," Smith tells the San Jose Mercury News.
Our View: What else is Smith going to say? The media may have been fishing for some controversial comments here. O'Sullivan seems to have a clear hold on the Week 1 job. |
|
| Gates taken off PUP list | Tuesday 8/19, 10:25 PM CT |
|
Antonio Gates was taken off the PUP list on Tuesday and worked individual drills during practice. "It’s another step forward," Gates tells the team's official web site. "Hopefully I’ll work my way back in there. I’m glad to be back practicing with my teammates and now you just hope things continue to go well." He is not expected to play in either of the final two preseason games. Gates is coming off surgery to repair his big left toe.
Our View: As the man says, it's another step in the right direction. The Chargers continue to suggest that Gates will be ready for Week 1, and this report only helps that claim. |
|
| Edwards suffers quad contusion | Tuesday 8/19, 9:02 PM CT |
|
Trent Edwards suffered a quad contusion during practice on Tuesday night. "It was a pretty deep one so they took him in to treat it quickly and try to get it before it swelled," head coach Dick Jauron informs the team's official web site. "The collision was with Marshawn (Lynch). Marshawn's knee was a little bit sore, by the end of practice so we took him off too, but he finished the whole practice, but hopefully they'll be fine as we move forward."
Our View: We'll chalk it up as a day-to-day deal for both Edwards and Lynch. They might need some more work on their handoffs. |
|
| Rudi remains sidelined | Tuesday 8/19, 8:38 PM CT |
|
Rudi Johnson remained out of practice on Tuesday, the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. He has been dealing with a right hamstring issue.
Our View: Johnson practiced last week, but he sat out of Sunday's preseason game. We're not sure if he aggravated the ailment or if the Bengals are being cautious. He needs to show us something soon to keep his fantasy value. |
|
| Porter sits with sore knee | Tuesday 8/19, 8:22 PM CT |
|
Joey Porter injured his right knee during Saturday's preseason game and rode a bike Tuesday, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel notes. He practiced on Monday. Porter has previously dealt with a sprained ankle and a bad back this preseason.
Our View: Bill Parcells is probably screaming in his office. He tends to dislike players who pile up nagging injuries, and it sound like Tony Sparano may feel the same. Porter probably won't lose his starting job soon, but Quentin Moses could be creeping up. |
|
| Polamalu practices | Tuesday 8/19, 8:17 PM CT |
|
Troy Polamalu made it through a full practice on Tuesday, the AP reports. He had been on the PUP list all preseason due to a sore hamstring. "We’re being cautious about how we get him back out there," head coach Mike Tomlin says. "We can’t take steps backward as we proceed. We’re very conscious of that."
Our View: The four-time Pro Bowl safety has been prone to injuries in recent years. The Steelers can be a stingy defense without him, but we like them even more when he's in there. |
|
| Hall has ligament damage | Tuesday 8/19, 8:06 PM CT |
|
DeAngelo Hall has ligament damage in his right hand and may need to wear a cast for the next few weeks. "I talked to my doctor and he said I tore some ligaments or something," Hall informs CBSSports.com. Hall won't need surgery and should be able to take off the cast prior to Week 1.
Our View: As long as this issue doesn't linger into the regular campaign, Hall should be a safe play in IDP leagues. |
|
| Jennings over knee injury | Tuesday 8/19, 8:03 PM CT |
|
Greg Jennings is over his knee injury. He tells the Green Bay Press Gazette that Tuesday was "probably the best I’ve felt at practice about ever, honestly." Jennings missed the opening two preseason games but will likely play on Friday.
Our View: This, honestly, is probably the best piece of news we've ever written. Just kidding, Mr. Jennings. It's safe for fantasy owners to draft Jennings at a No. 2 wideout. |
|
| Edwards takes shot to knee | Tuesday 8/19, 8:00 PM CT |
|
Trent Edwards hobbled off the field after taking a knee-to-knee hit on Tuesday night. Trainers were looking at his right knee, the team's official web site reports. Edwards walked off under his own power.
Our View: We'll pass along updates as they become available. J.P. Losman would step up the depth chart if Edwards was out for a significant period. |
|
| Bradley placed on IR | Tuesday 8/19, 7:56 PM CT |
|
The Lions have placed fullback Jon Bradley on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury, MLive.com reports.
Our View: Rookie Jerome Felton is the last remaining fullback on the roster, and the Lions new offense will likely use tight ends in that role. Bradley had no fantasy value. |
|
| Clowney to miss significant time | Tuesday 8/19, 7:55 PM CT |
|
The Jets confirmed on Tuesday that David Clowney will miss "some significant time" due to his collarbone injury, the New York Daily News reports.
Our View: The Jets needed someone to step up alongside Laveranues Coles and Jerricho Cotchery, and Clowney was turning into that guy. It's bad timing for the young wideout. |
|
| Cribbs has high ankle sprain | Tuesday 8/19, 6:59 PM CT |
|
Wide receiver/return man Josh Cribbs has been diagnosed with a high left ankle sprain, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. Cribbs may be out until the Browns open the season on September 7.
Our View: The outstanding return man doesn't have a huge role in the offense, so this shouldn't affect fantasy rankings. |
|
| Snyder sprains ankle | Tuesday 8/19, 6:41 PM CT |
|
The 49ers will be without left guard Adam Snyder when they face the Bears on Thursday. He sprained his right ankle on Tuesday and is out indefinitely, the Santa Rosa Press Democrat reports.
Our View: Snyder is stepping into Larry Allen's old spot, and we can't help but worry about this offensive line. Startin right guard David Baas has been out since April due to a torn pectoral tendon. |
|
| Jones could play on Thursday | Tuesday 8/19, 6:21 PM CT |
|
Kevin Jones is expected to make his preseason (and Bears) debut when they face the 49ers on Thursday, the team's official web site reports. He tore the ACL in his right knee on December 23.
Our View: It will be interesting to see how the former Lion looks after only eight months of recovery. Matt Forte remains the starter, but a healthy Jones could cut into the rookie's workload down the road. |
|
| Horn draws interest from Jags | Tuesday 8/19, 6:17 PM CT |
|
The Jaguars were one of the first teams to show interest in free agent wideout Joe Horn, NFL.com reports.
Our View: The Jaguars have been without Jerry Porter (hamstring) and Reggie Williams (knee) this August, and their replacement have not played well. Adding Horn might mean subtracting Matt Jones, which wouldn't surprise anyone. |
|
| Cribbs undergoes MRI | Tuesday 8/19, 6:00 PM CT |
|
Josh Cribbs underwent an MRI on his left ankle on Tuesday, and the results are not yet known, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Our View: Cribbs is the lone reason why fantasy teams might consider employing the Browns defense/special teams. He is arguably the most dynamic return man outside of Chicago. |
|
| Anderson likely out on Saturday | Tuesday 8/19, 5:58 PM CT |
|
Derek Anderson is not expected to play when the Browns face the Lions on Saturday, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. The quarterback suffered a mild concussion and bruised right hand during Monday's preseason tilt. Brady Quinn would start if Anderson sits.
Our View: No surprise here. The Browns have no reason to push Anderson for a meaningless game. He may need to play a little more than normal in the fourth and final preseason contest. |
|
| Manningham nearly ready | Tuesday 8/19, 5:06 PM CT |
|
Wide receiver Mario Manningham is expected to return to practice on Wednesday, head coach Tom Coughlin tells the team's official web site. Manningham has been out since early in camp due to a sore quad. "If he can practice and hold up through the practices, I am figuring that he would then get the green light and if he does get the green light (for Saturday)," Coughlin says.
Our View: At this point, Coughlin may simply find the rookie and drag him onto the field. Manningham has done nothing to suggest he will have a role in the Giants offense this season. |
|
| Smith ready to go | Tuesday 8/19, 5:03 PM CT |
|
Wide receiver Steve Smith is expected to return to practice on Wednesday, head coach Tom Coughlin tells the team's official web site. Smith has been out due to a sore hamstring.
Our View: Smith missed a golden opportunity to step up while Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer were out. This second-year wideout has skills, but he continues to spend more time in the trainer's room than on the field. |
|
| Toomer to practice Wednesday | Tuesday 8/19, 5:01 PM CT |
|
Wide receiver Amani Toomer is expected to return to practice on Wednesday, head coach Tom Coughlin tells the team's official web site. Toomer has been out due to a sore left knee.
Our View: Toomer shouldn't need much time to get back on the same page with Eli Manning. This veteran wideout is only worth looking at in very large fantasy leagues, but he is a crucial safety valve for his quarterback. |
|
| Freeney back in pads | Tuesday 8/19, 4:56 PM CT |
|
Defensive end Dwight Freeney practiced in pads on Tuesday for the first time since foot surgery last November, the AP reports. "I should definitely be ready in three weeks," Freeney says. "I think I'm close (to 100 percent). I'm definitely good enough to compete and play." He underwent an operation after suffering a Lis Franc fracture.
Our View: Freeney has lost a lot of IDP value over the past two seasons, as he has recorded only 9.0 sacks over 27 regular season games. We're keeping our expectations low for 2008, but he could turn into a bargain. |
|
| No decision on Jackson | Tuesday 8/19, 4:52 PM CT |
|
Head coach Brad Childress hasn't made a decision regarding Tarvaris Jackson's status for Saturday's preseason game. The quarterback sprained the MCL in his right knee last Saturday. "I really have not. He certainly hasn’t either," Childress tells the Minneapolis Star Tribune. Gus Frerotte would start if Jackson were out. The Vikings plan to play their starters into the third quarter.
Our View: Jackson is doing his best to follow in the footsteps of Steve McNair and Donovan McNabb, at least when it comes to injuries. We expect him to be fully ready for Week 1, but his low fantasy value may not have a chance to rise this preseason. |
|
| Williams dealing with sore knee | Tuesday 8/19, 4:40 PM CT |
|
Safety Roy Williams did not participate in team drills on Tuesday due to knee tendinitis, the Dallas Morning News reports. The ailment is not believed to be serious. Pat Watkins worked in his spot.
Our View: Six years of working on turf has a way of wearing down knees and ankles. It sounds like Williams should be fine. |
|
| Miller released | Tuesday 8/19, 4:36 PM CT |
|
The Titans released punter Josh Miller on Tuesday, the AP reports.
Our View: Miller had no shot to beat out Craig Hentrich, who has been with the Titans since 1998. Some other club might give Josh a chance. |
|
| Thomas holding down right guard | Tuesday 8/19, 4:35 PM CT |
|
Rookie Donald Thomas continues to have a hold on the starting job at right guard. "I think it's Donald's job to lose at that position right now and I say that in all honesty," head coach Tony Sparano tells the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. "Donald is a young player that is showing great progress. I like what he does in there and he's continuing to get better and as long as that happens I think he's going to stay there." Thomas was a sixth-round pick out of Connecticut.
Our View: Chad Pennington is only about a half-step faster than Dan Marino (current version), and it could get tough for the quarterback with two rookies (Jake Long is the other) on the new offensive line. |
|
| Berrian practices | Tuesday 8/19, 4:28 PM CT |
|
Wide receiver Bernard Berrian practiced at least partially on Tuesday despite dealing with turf toe, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Our View: Previous comments by Berrian suggest he dealt with this injury last season, and it sounds like he will continue to play through the pain. Berrian doesn't have a ton of fantasy value, but this news might drop him a few spots. |
|
| Henry deal done | Tuesday 8/19, 4:09 PM CT |
|
The Bengals have officially re-signed wide receiver Chris Henry, the AP reports. He is expected to practice on Tuesday evening. Henry is suspended for the first four games of the season.
Our View: Chad Johnson is dealing with an injured shoulder and T.J. Houshmandzadeh has a bum hamstring, but this move suggests the Bengals really don't like what they've seen out of Antonio Chatman, Marcus Maxwell, or any of their three rookie receivers. Henry should take over the No. 3 role by Week 5, provided he doesn't break a law between now and then. |
|
| Horn has interest in joining Dolphins | Tuesday 8/19, 3:43 PM CT |
|
Joe Horn has some interest in joining the Miami Dolphins, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel. His agent, Ralph Vitolo, told the paper, "Joe could bring veteran leadership and mentor the young receivers. We have an interest in Miami if they have an interest in Joe."
Our View: Miami currently has Ted Ginn, Jr., Ernest Wilford and Derek Hagan as their top three wide outs. Ginn was a high draft pick, Wilford a pricey free agent signing and Hagan a possible starter, so Horn would likely fit in behind them. His fantasy value probably would not be a whole lot higher in Miami than it was in Atlanta. |
|
| Gaither still not practicing | Tuesday 8/19, 3:28 PM CT |
|
Out since late July with an ankle injury, it is still not known when Ravens left tackle Jared Gaither will be able to return, according to the Baltimore Sun. “Whenever I’m healthy, that’s when I’m going to show back up," Gaither told the paper.
Our View: Baltimore is counting on him to man the left side, as Jonathan Ogden retired before the season. Chad Slaughter has been playing in Gaither's place. |
|
| Whisenhunt responds to Boldin | Tuesday 8/19, 3:10 PM CT |
|
Anquan Boldin has been upset with Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt for getting involved in his contract dispute, and the wide receiver said that the two do not communicate. However, Whisenhunt claims that simply is not true, according to the Arizona Republic. "At least, if communicating is talking - that's what we've been doing at practice," Whisenhunt said.
Our View: Boldin probably isn't going to appreciate the fact that his coach basically just called him a liar. The team continues to insist it will not move Boldin, nor will it give him a new contract. |
|
| Hasselbeck's back problems continue | Tuesday 8/19, 3:06 PM CT |
|
After practicing for the first time in about a week due to back stiffness, Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck was forced to leave practice on Tuesday when the malady flared up on him, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
Our View: No word on whether this is a minor setback or something more serious. Hasselbeck was supposed to be ready to play in the team's preseason game against the Bears, though that could obviously change. |
|
| Joseph out 4-8 weeks | Tuesday 8/19, 2:48 PM CT |
|
Buccaneers right guard Davin Joseph had surgery on his broken foot and could miss anywhere from four to eight weeks, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Joseph suffered the injury in the team's preseason game against New England on Sunday.
Our View: Losing Joseph could hurt Tampa's running game, as he was someone the team often ran behind. Keep that in mind when drafting Earnest Graham. For now, the Bucs will play rookie Jeremy Zuttah, the team's third-round pick, at guard. |
|
| Sapp makes move to television | Tuesday 8/19, 2:21 PM CT |
|
Predictably, Warren Sapp will be featured on television during the NFL season, joining Inside the NFL, according to MarketWatch.com.
Our View: The show was dropped by HBO and will now air on Showtime, with James Brown replacing Bob Costas as host, Phil Simms replacing Dan Marino and Sapp replacing Cris Carter. The only holdover will be Cris Collinsworth, who remains as analyst. |
|
| Anderson has surgery | Tuesday 8/19, 2:15 PM CT |
|
Bears defensive end Mark Anderson underwent surgery on his right thumb and will not play in the team's preseason game on Thursday, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.
Our View: The injury is not thought to be serious, and Anderson should be good to go for the regular season. |
|
| Williams on track | Tuesday 8/19, 2:13 PM CT |
|
Reggie Williams is very close to returning after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his knee, according to the Florida Times-Union.
Our View: Williams was working on running routes and cutting, so he will be back shortly. However, it is still up in the air as to whether or not he will play in the team's upcoming preseason game on Saturday. Williams snagged 10 touchdown passes last season and is a quality third option on fantasy teams. |
|
| Galloway practices | Tuesday 8/19, 2:03 PM CT |
|
After drawing the ire of head coach Jon Gruden on Monday for missing so much time, Tampa Bay wide receiver Joey Galloway practiced on Tuesday for the first time, according to the TBO.com.
Our View: Galloway had been out with a groin injury, and Gruden was none too pleased that the veteran wide out had not been to practice. Galloway remains a solid No. 2 wide receiver on fantasy squads, assuming he is healthy. |
|
| Newman will return to practice | Tuesday 8/19, 1:59 PM CT |
|
Dallas cornerback Terence Newman will return to practice this week and could be ready to play in the team's final preseason game on August 28, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Newman had a strained groin, and he has been out three weeks. His return enhances the fantasy value of the Cowboys D/ST unit, as he is one of the top defensive backs in the league. |
|
| Jones will not return kicks | Tuesday 8/19, 1:56 PM CT |
|
Cowboys first-round pick, running back Felix Jones, will probably not be returning kicks season even though he excelled at it during his time at Arkansas, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Of course, this is subject to change depending on how the season goes, but Jones is going to be an important part of the team's offense, and risking an injury to him on special teams is not worth the risk. Jones will be the change-of-pace back to Marion Barber, so his fantasy value is that of someone who should not be counted on week-to-week. |
|
| Austin is out | Tuesday 8/19, 1:53 PM CT |
|
Cowboys wide out Miles Austin will miss 4-6 weeks after spraining his knee, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Austin was in line to be the team's third receiver this season, but that job now likely belongs to Sam Hurd. |
|
| Brown not going anywhere | Tuesday 8/19, 1:47 PM CT |
|
Amid reports that he could be moved, the Miami Dolphins have made it clear they are not trading running back Ronnie Brown, according to the Palm Beach Post. "No chance that we're trading Ronnie," Miami head coach Tony Sparano said.
Our View: Brown is an intriguing fantasy player, but his prospects are a bit difficult to figure out. He clearly has talent, as he showed last season, but his penchant for getting hurt and the strong play of Ricky Williams so far in the preseason complicate things. Brown is worthy of being drafted, but be careful not too select him to high or you may get burned. |
|
| Could McGahee be cut? | Tuesday 8/19, 1:23 PM CT |
|
Willis McGahee could miss the rest of the preseason, according to the Baltimore Sun. Furthermore, reporter Mike Preston says McGahee does not have many fans in the Baltimore front office because his work ethic is substandard, and it would not be a shock to see him get cut before the end of the regular season.
Our View: With the quality play of rookie Ray Rice, McGahee could be deemed expendable. This news has to alarm fantasy owners who invested a high pick in the former Miami back. It is absolutely imperative to handcuff Rice should you choose to draft McGahee. |
|
| Reed may not be ready for season opener | Tuesday 8/19, 1:13 PM CT |
|
All-Pro safety Ed Reed could miss the team's Week 1 contest against Cincinnati as he is still struggling to regain full health in his injured shoulder, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: Reed is extremely valuable to the Ravens defense, so an extended absence will hurt fantasy owners who have Reed in an IDP league or those who drafted the Baltimore D/ST unit. There is no timetable for Reed's return, but there is speculation that he could be out for quite a while. |
|
| Jets sign Brackins | Tuesday 8/19, 1:02 PM CT |
|
The New York Jets have signed former Bucs fifth-round pick and Arena League wide receiver Larry Brackins, according to Scout.com.
Our View: Brackins had a very good season for the Arena League champion Philadelphia Soul this past year, snaring 56 passes for 786 yards and 20 touchdowns. He will fight to make the roster, so his fantasy prospects are very limited. |
|
| Hawk may miss Week 1 | Tuesday 8/19, 12:50 PM CT |
|
There is a possibility that Green Bay linebacker A.J. Hawk will miss the first game of the season against the Vikings with an injury to his chest, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. "They're definitely not going to lock down a date for me. I know they want the best for me long term so I have to listen to them," Hawk said.
Our View: Hawk is an important part of the team's defense, so his injury is a blow to them. He is also someone fantasy owners can use in IDP leagues, as he figures to only get better after a strong season in 2007. |
|
| Meriweather should be okay | Tuesday 8/19, 12:46 PM CT |
|
Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather should be ready to go when the regular season starts, according to the Boston Globe. He suffered an injury to his leg during his team's preseason game Sunday.
Our View: Meriweather had just 27 tackles last season, but he is expected to be a bigger part of the Patriots defense this year. |
|
| Pollard released | Tuesday 8/19, 12:41 PM CT |
|
The New England Patriots have released tight end Marcus Pollard, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: The team released Pollard now so he can find a new team before the preseason ends. He had 28 catches and two touchdowns last season with Seattle. |
|
| Horn released | Tuesday 8/19, 12:04 PM CT |
|
Falcons wide receiver Joe Horn was released by the team, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He had been desperately seeking a trade as he was low on the team's depth chart, but the Falcons likely could not find a taker for his $2.5 million salary.
Our View: Horn had no fantasy value in Atlanta. Where it goes now depends on where he lands, though at 36 years old, it will be difficult for him to find a starting job anywhere. |
|
| Abraham back to practice | Tuesday 8/19, 11:57 AM CT |
|
John Abraham returned to practice on Monday after injuring his ankle in Atlanta's preseason game against Jacksonville, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: Abraham is a big part of the Falcons defense, and he registered 10 sacks last season while forcing four fumbles. The Falcons D/ST unit is not one for fantasy owners to pursue, but Abraham could be useful in IDP leagues. |
|
| Bennett to see increased playing time | Tuesday 8/19, 11:54 AM CT |
|
Tampa Bay Running back Michael Bennett has had an outstanding preseason and will likely see more playing time in the regular season, though he remains Earnest Graham's back-up, according to the Tampa Tribune. "He's picking up the passing game. He's just become a better, well-rounded football player and we're excited about him," said Bucs coach Jon Gruden.
Our View: Bennett and Graham have completely different styles, with Graham bruising his way down field and Bennett using his speed. It may be wise to invest a late-round pick in Bennett, or sooner if you drafted Earnest Graham. |
|
| Bailey coming on quickly | Tuesday 8/19, 11:49 AM CT |
|
Broncos linebacker Boss Bailey is recovering quickly from his sprained right ankle and he could be ready for the team's season opener, according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: Bailey won't play during the preseason, but he is resuming running this week, and the injury has been healing quicker than expected. |
|
| Bell no lock for roster spot | Tuesday 8/19, 11:43 AM CT |
|
It is not guaranteed that running back Tatum Bell will have a spot on Detroit's final roster, according to MLive.com. Bell has just 12 rushes for 17 yards on the preseason. The team could be looking to keep Artose Pinner, who has rushed 18 times for 64 yards thus far.
Our View: Though Bell has not been great so far, the likelihood is that he would be kept around due to his speed and contrasting style of rookie Kevin Smith. His fantasy value is decreasing with every poor preseason performance, however. |
|
| Stanton improving | Tuesday 8/19, 11:34 AM CT |
|
After struggling mightily in camp, quarterback Drew Stanton has turned the corner and is quickly gaining on Dan Orlovsky in the battle to be the team's No. 2 quarterback, according to MLive.com.
Our View: Stanton uses his feet well to move around, and though accuracy remains an issue, he has a legit chance to be the back-up to starter Jon Kitna. |
|
| Albert healing | Tuesday 8/19, 11:31 AM CT |
|
Chiefs first-round selection, offensive lineman Branden Albert, did some running and took off the protective boot he had been wearing on his sprained foot, according to the Kansas City Star.
Our View: Albert will miss the rest of the preseason, but the progress of his foot is encouraging to the Chiefs. |
|
| Hasselbeck practices | Tuesday 8/19, 11:21 AM CT |
|
Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck returned to the practice field after missing much of last week and the team's preseason contest against Chicago because of a sore back, according to the Tacoma News Tribune.
Our View: Hasselbeck is ready to go and will play in the team's upcoming preseason contest. |
|
| Spencer nears return | Tuesday 8/19, 11:17 AM CT |
|
Seahawks center Chris Spencer is close to full health and has returned to the practice field, though he did not fully participate, according to the Tacoma News Tribune. He had been suffering from a lower back injury.
Our View: The Seahawks offensive line had been scuffling a bit without their center, so Spencer's return should provide them with a lift. |
|
| Bulger okay | Tuesday 8/19, 11:01 AM CT |
|
Marc Bulger threw normally in practice on Monday after suffering a hit to his right shoulder in the Rams preseason contest against San Diego, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: Bulger has been awful so far in the preseason, and is possibly gun shy after being sacked nearly 200 times in the last five seasons, more than any other quarterback. Still, he has a good history and should the offensive line hold up, he can be someone fantasy owners look to on a weekly basis to provide points. |
|
| Pace plays a half | Tuesday 8/19, 10:55 AM CT |
|
Rams tackle Orlando Pace played the entire first half of the team's preseason game against San Diego, and reported no ill effects other than normal soreness on his right shoulder, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Pace had surgery on the shoulder last season after injuring it in Week 1, causing him to miss the remainder of the year.
Our View: Pace is still getting used to the contact his shoulder will endure, and, frankly, it shows. He has not played up to his usual standards, which has resulted in QB Marc Bulger getting hit. Pace must pick up his play for the Rams to improve on their 3-13 record from a year ago. |
|
| Rams want bonus money back | Tuesday 8/19, 10:50 AM CT |
|
The St. Louis Rams are seeking to recoup some of suspended defensive tackle Claude Wroten's signing bonus money, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Wroten received a bonus of $805,000 his rookie year, and the Rams would like a quarter of that back, over $200,000, because he signed a four-year contract.
Our View: This is par for the course for suspended players. Wroten was suspended for one year for violating the league's substance abuse policy, and the Rams will probably release him when his suspension is over. |
|
| Green out for preseason | Tuesday 8/19, 10:43 AM CT |
|
Texans running back Ahman Green will probably be out for the remainder of the preseason, according to the Houston Chronicle. He is dealing with an injury to his groin.
Our View: Draft Green at your own risk. Not only is he an injury machine, Houston also has Chris Brown, Steve Slaton, Chris Taylor and Darius Walker in the backfield. There has also been talk that Green could be released should he not heal quickly enough. The likelihood of Green making a big impact on fantasy teams is remote. |
|
| Brown will start | Tuesday 8/19, 10:40 AM CT |
|
Chris Brown will start at running back for the Houston Texans in their preseason game against Dallas, according to the Houston Chronicle. Rookie Steve Slaton will also see time with the first unit.
Our View: Do not read too much into this, as the team will likely use the dreaded (for fantasy owners, anyway) running-back-by-committee approach until Ahman Green gets healthy. |
|
| Lutui could lose starting gig | Tuesday 8/19, 10:33 AM CT |
|
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt has proclaimed that former second-round pick Deuce Lutui could lose his starting right guard spot to Elton Brown, according to the Arizona Republic. "Deuce has shown signs of making good plays, but then he'll have one or two plays a game that are not acceptable, so Elton is making a strong push," Whisenhunt said.
Our View: In all likelihood, Lutui will wind up being the starter, and Whisenhunt is simply using this as motivation. Lutui is a road-grader who can open up holes for running back Edgerrin James. |
|
| Jennings breaks hand | Tuesday 8/19, 10:12 AM CT |
|
49ers starting right tackle Jonas Jennings underwent surgery to repair a broken bone in his right hand, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.
Our View: Jennings is expected to be back before the team's final preseason game. However, this gives Barry Sims a chance to take over the starting spot for Jennings. |
|
| Favre would like simpler offense | Tuesday 8/19, 10:07 AM CT |
|
Jets quarterback Brett Favre would like for head coach Eric Mangini to shed some of the offense, making it easier for him to digest, according to the New York Post. "I had a long talk with Eric. I don't want to think, I want to react. There's got to be some middle ground there," Favre said.
Our View: Favre has had trouble because the Jets and Packers use some of the same terminology, only with different meanings. Favre is a viable option as a fantasy signal-caller, though the returns may be greater a few games into the season, when he has full grasp of the offense. |
|
| Boldin upset with Whisenhunt | Tuesday 8/19, 10:01 AM CT |
|
The Arizona Cardinals have said they will not trade wide receiver Anquan Boldin, who recently requested the move, according to the Arizona Republic. This comes after Boldin publicly voiced his displeasure with head coach Ken Whisenhunt. "At this point we have no relationship, and I don't see that changing. It's just gotten to a point where I think lines were crossed. If you ask me, coaches should be coaches, management should be management, and I don't think those lines should be crossed," Boldin said.
Our View: There has been speculation that Boldin is so disenfranchised with the Cardinals that he may walk out of training camp. This situation bears watching for fantasy owners, as Boldin is one of the top receivers in the league when healthy. |
|
| Kelly practices | Tuesday 8/19, 9:09 AM CT |
|
Redskins rookie wide receiver Malcolm Kelly increased his workload at practice and could see time in the team's preseason contest against the Panthers on Saturday, according to Sporting News Today. He had undergone arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in early August.
Our View: Kelly has yet to see action in a game, and his fantasy prospects are limited because he is behind the other receivers. Not to mention the fact that rookie wide outs rarely have much of an impact their first season. |
|
| Hunt converts to fullback | Tuesday 8/19, 9:04 AM CT |
|
After getting some reps in at fullback during practice, the Philadelphia Eagles have decided to move running back Tony Hunt to the position, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Philadelphia does not use a fullback often, so Hunt could still see some time at tailback, though either way his fantasy value is minimal. |
|
| Shockey getting up to speed | Tuesday 8/19, 8:55 AM CT |
|
Saints tight end Jeremy Shockey went through practice on Monday with no problems and will likely play in the team's preseason contest on Saturday against the Bengals, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Shockey has been out with a hamstring problem, but it looks like he will be ready to go when the season starts. He should be someone fantasy owners target to be their tight end, and could put up big numbers in coach Sean Payton's offense. |
|
| Driver not performing well | Tuesday 8/19, 8:50 AM CT |
|
Green Bay wide out Donald Driver has not been playing well, mostly due to the numerous drops he has had in practice and preseason contests, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Driver is said to still be getting accustomed to Aaron Rodgers as opposed to the rockets Brett Favre used to throw at him. Hopefully, for the sake of Rodgers and fantasy owners, he will get acclimated in a hurry. |
|
| Vincent wins starting job | Tuesday 8/19, 8:47 AM CT |
|
Offensive lineman Keydrick Vincent has won the job as the Panthers starting right guard, according to Sporting News Today. He was battling Toniu Fonoti for the position.
Our View: Vincent is a big man at 6-5, 325 pounds, and will provide power blocking up the middle for backs Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams. |
|
| Rolle out for preseason contest | Tuesday 8/19, 8:41 AM CT |
|
Antrel Rolle will miss the team's upcoming preseason game against the Raiders with a sore ankle, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: This is the second game in a row that Rolle will miss, which is bad news considering he is moving from cornerback to safety this year. |
|
| Williams will play Friday | Tuesday 8/19, 8:30 AM CT |
|
Titans wide receiver Roydell Williams has resumed practice and will likely play in the team's exhibition game on Friday against the Falcons, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Williams is still a bit sore, but needs to pick up the pace in order to maintain a spot on the roster. He was a quality receiver last season, with 55 catches and four touchdowns, but his fantasy prospects this year are waning with his struggle to get healthy. |
|
| Manning could practice next week | Tuesday 8/19, 8:12 AM CT |
|
Colts quarterback Peyton Manning could resume practice sometime next week and he remains in line to start Week 1 of the regular season, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Good news for fantasy owners, as Manning is still recovering from offseason knee surgery. There had been speculation that he would not be ready to go at the start of the season, and though that remains a slight possibility, it looks as if he will be on the field soon. |
|
| Sanders ready to play | Tuesday 8/19, 8:09 AM CT |
|
Colts safety Bob Sanders is ready to practice and could see time in the team's upcoming preseason game against Buffalo, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Sanders has been out after having shoulder surgery in the offseason. The defensive player of the year in 2007, his return boosts the fantasy stock of the Indy defense, and his own value in IDP leagues. |
|
| Anderson suffers concussion | Tuesday 8/19, 8:05 AM CT |
|
Browns quarterback Derek Anderson suffered a concussion and bruised right hand when Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora sacked him in Monday's preseason game, according to the Cleveland Plain-Dealer.
Our View: The extent of the concussion or how long Anderson will be out are not yet known. He remains a solid option at QB for fantasy owners unless his injuries prove to be serious. |
|
| Weary put on IR | Tuesday 8/19, 7:58 AM CT |
|
Offensive guard Fred Weary was put on injured reserve by the Houston Texans, and the team will try to work out an injury settlement with him, according to Sporting News Today. Weary broke his leg last season and has not fully recovered.
Our View: Weary was the team's starting guard until his injury last season, so losing him for the upcoming campaign is a blow. Houston may try to re-sign him should he get healthy. |
|
| Nalen returns to practice | Tuesday 8/19, 7:50 AM CT |
|
Broncos center Tom Nalen has returned to practice with the team, but did not participate in team drills, according to Sporting News Today. Nalen is suffering from a bone bruise in his left knee.
Our View: Nalen is an important part of the team's offensive line, so the sooner he can resume his duties, the better for fantasy owners who invested in Selvin Young. |
|
| Simpson to see more time | Tuesday 8/19, 7:43 AM CT |
|
Wide receiver Jerome Simpson will get more work with Cincinnati's first-team offense as the team's corps of wide outs, including Chad Johnson, is suffering from injuries, according to Sporting News Today.
Our View: Simpson made a good showing in the team's preseason game against Detroit, hauling in five passes for 114 yards. With the team possibly signing suspended wide out Chris Henry, however, his fantasy value is slim. |
|
|
|
