Latest RotoExperts Playes News http://rotoexperts.com/ 2008 http://rotoexperts.com 02 09 2010, 8:21 am 02 09 2010, 8:21 am 2008 Rotoexpert AdamZdroik 2008-09-28 19:36:13 2008-09-28 19:36:13

Fitzpatrick will start against the Browns and Palmer will be moved to 3rd string QB. If you have no other option, Fitzpatrick could have decent numbers against the Browns. This could mean more carries for Perry in the weeks to come, no matter who is at QB. For the future, the injury for Palmer may be more serious than what was thought. He was confident that he was going to play on Friday. The Bengals have a tough upcoming schedule, so Fitzpatrick may not be that good of an option, unless used for only this week.

BenIce 2008-09-25 01:25:14 2008-09-25 01:25:14

Our hearts go out to the Bryant family for this horrific tragedy as well as our thoughts and prayers. Bryant will obviously not be available for the game this weekend against the Green Bay Packers

ScottEngel 2008-09-23 14:17:09 2008-09-23 14:17:09

Looks like it's time to give up on Marc Bulger, and you can consider releasing him if you need to clear roster space. You should only pick up Green if your fantasy team is hurting for QB help

RobertGeorge 2008-09-24 09:43:05 2008-09-24 09:43:05

Plax will only miss the Week 5 game against Seattle since the Giants are off this week. Keep a close eye on this situation to see if his antics could cause more trouble for him and you as a fantasy owner.

RobertGeorge 2008-09-24 10:25:29 2008-09-24 10:25:29

This is a long awaited day for Lions fans. Millen was one of the worst general managers in NFL history and maybe with him out the Lions can get things right in that organization. This news can only help fantasy owners who are invested in the talent-laden Detroit offense.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-01 11:21:28 2008-10-01 11:21:28

Rodgers was blossoming into a reliable fantasy commodity before getting hurt, but shoulder ailments can be very problematic and fantasy owners will be holding their breath in hopes that this is not a serious injury.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-09-29 10:50:27 2008-09-29 10:50:27

Warner can still be a turnover machine, but with the weapons at his disposal in Arizona, he should remain a fine starting QB for fantasy purposes. Yesterday's game is a perfect example as he still had a productive game for fantasy owners despite his blunders.

JohnSullivan 2008-10-02 09:28:04 2008-10-02 09:28:04

Henry is now officially done…he panned out to be little more in Denver than Maurice Clarett.

JohnSullivan 2008-10-01 11:20:13 2008-10-01 11:20:13

This most likely means nothing from a player performance standpoint…a lot of stars and money on the field, and not enough W’s in the column…it’s going to be business as usual in Oakland…it’s possible that with Kiffin gone, off the field relations will improve, but don't hold your breath.

SteveLoveless 2008-10-01 11:16:18 2008-10-01 11:16:18

If you own Burress in your leagues you definitely need to keep an eye on the situation. You could be without Burress for an additional two weeks, following his one game suspension from the Giants.

HectorCastro 2008-10-01 11:17:27 2008-10-01 11:17:27

No official announcement has been made yet. McMichael was supposed to be featured in the Rams offense this year similar to how new offensive coordinator Al Saunders had used TE Tony Gonzalez and TE Chris Cooley in his recent past. Unfortunately now, Marc Bulger will have to rely on the retread TE Anthony Becht in this role.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-01 11:18:12 2008-10-01 11:18:12

If anyone is still holding onto Kenny Watson, it is a good time to release him. At this point Benson has no significant value unless you are in a 16-team league.

BradRysz 2008-10-02 09:36:27 2008-10-02 09:36:27

When a player takes a hit like Boldin did, there is always concern that they will be hesitant when they return. Boldin has made a living on underneath routes and slants across the middle, but he came out on Wednesday and said that he will not change the way that he plays. This is good news for Boldin owners and if he only misses one game, consider yourself fortunate.

HectorCastro 2008-10-01 11:15:09 2008-10-01 11:15:09

The Steelers signed RB Najeh Davenport to return to the club. You may want to take a flier on Davenport as he is now going to be apart of the running back-by-committee in Pittsburgh until Parker comes back.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-01 11:13:23 2008-10-01 11:13:23

For the people who picked up Green last week, it is time again to get Bulger. At this point, he can only be used as a bye week fill-in. Being in one of the worst divisions in the NFL though, Bulger could turn out to be a quality back up toward the end of the year, just not now.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-01 10:32:54 2008-10-01 10:32:54

Henry once looked like a budding star in the league, but his off-field troubles have stunted his development. The Bengals offense has sputtered this season and Henry can certainly give them a boost if he comes back and plays well. He's worth a pick-up in deeper fantasy leagues, but keep him reserved until he assumes a useful role with the club.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-02 11:55:58 2008-10-02 11:55:58

While it is no surprise to hear that a football player is feeling the effects of playing this physical sport, Lewis has a ton of mileage on that body of his and has not performed well thus far this season. He does not look like the revitalized RB we saw last year and fantasy owners should treat Lewis as a No. 2 RB or No. 3 RB, playing him when the match-ups are right and benching him when he goes against tougher opponents.

BradRysz 2008-10-03 22:30:32 2008-10-03 22:30:32

Palmer's decision not to play last weekend was a shock to many fantasy owners. Palmer has been receiving treatment every day, but still is only throwing on the sideline. Palmer says he expects to play, but if you own him, have a backup plan in line in case he can't play. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start if Palmer is unable to play, but based on last week's 156 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions, he isn't a viable option.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 22:31:13 2008-10-03 22:31:13

Griese has had six interceptions in his last two games and head coach Jon Gruden is not happy with this. Garcia is the more fantasy-friendly QB and if you have a need at the position for your fantasy roster, it may be wise to add Garcia now if you have the space on your bench.

BradRysz 2008-10-02 09:42:06 2008-10-02 09:42:06

Andy Reid is notorious for misleading teams and fantasy owners on the seriousness of his players injuries. Reid also waits until nearly an hour before game time to make decisions, which leaves fantasy owners not much time to make a decision. As of now, proceed with caution and assume that Correll Buckhalter will be carrying the ball for the Eagles come Sunday.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-02 11:53:51 2008-10-02 11:53:51

Lloyd is still someone to hold onto in fantasy leagues as he looks like a new man in Chicago and may finally live up to his potential this season. If he was to be out this week, Devin Hester, Rashied Davis and Marty Booker (if he can play) should get a boost in value for Week Five as Chicago has to throw the ball to somebody and the Lions defense is putrid.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-02 11:53:29 2008-10-02 11:53:29

Jacksonville gave Porter big money this off-season to inject play-making life into their passing game. It is encouraging to hear Porter wanting to be more involved offensively and the fact that his coach understands this is a plus. Fantasy owners who spent a draft pick on Porter and have hung onto him this long should wait at least a couple more weeks to see if he develops into a weapon for the Jags. He could be a big-time contributor for your receiving unit if he stays healthy and sees a lot of passes.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-03 22:27:50 2008-10-03 22:27:50

This is only a positive for Marian Barber III owners, who were less than satisfied with Barber's total of 37 yards against the Redskins last week. Expect Felix Jones to find touches as well, and could maybe warrant a start in deeper leagues. With the Cowboys opponent being the Bengals this week, one of the worst rushing defenses in the league, expect big numbers from the Dallas running game.

BradRysz 2008-10-02 12:13:06 2008-10-02 12:13:06

Mewelde Moore is the only healthy running back for the Steelers, and although they have signed Najeh Davenport and Gary Russell this week, the Jacksonville defense should have no problem stopping the run. Ben Roethlisberger has had a disappointing season so far, but Sunday night offers an opportunity for him to post some big passing numbers. Roethlisberger, Hines Ward and Santonio Holmes receive an increase in value.

BradRysz 2008-10-03 22:32:21 2008-10-03 22:32:21

It's been an intense month for Young, who saw his mother speak out on his behalf and the police search for him. Jeff Fisher has publicly stated that Kerry Collins will remain the Titans starter when Young returns. The Titans are 4-0, so don't expect any rash changes in the coming weeks. Don't jump to your free agent list and pick up Young just yet. He is more of a work-in-progress at this point, and Collins is the more valuable fantasy quarterback.

BradRysz 2008-10-03 22:33:46 2008-10-03 22:33:46

Rodgers claims that he will do whatever it takes to play against Atlanta on Sunday, but he agrees that the "big picture" is more important to the team. Rodgers is expected to take a pre-game injection, wear a shoulder harness, and go through rehabilitation exercises this week in preparation. All indications are that he will play. If he does, the Falcons defense is an ideal opponent and Rodgers should post good numbers. Monitor this situation as Sunday approaches. If Rodgers can't play, Matt Flynn will start. Flynn is not a good option and shouldn't be picked up in any format.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 22:34:37 2008-10-03 22:34:37

Harris has been a bit of a disappointment for the Bears this season but is still an impact player. The Bears have been a solid defensive unit without Harris playing up to his talent level, so fantasy owners should not feel hesitant to play them this week if they were planning on it before this news.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 09:00:37 2008-10-03 09:00:37

He's expected to play Sunday, so if you were planning on using him this week, he should be active. The Steelers have been very optimistic about Roethlisberger's injury not affecting his playing time going forward.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 22:36:53 2008-10-03 22:36:53

Kubiak wants to get Slaton the ball often so this is not by any means a time-share situation. Green is a fragile player who has spent more time off the field than on in his last couple of seasons and because of that, his fantasy value is limited.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 22:39:25 2008-10-03 22:39:25

This has been a disappointing season for Heap thus far and fantasy owners are in quite a pickle. The Ravens are valuing pass protection for rookie QB Joe Flacco and Heap's numbers are suffering as a result. He's a two-time Pro Bowl TE, but if he's not getting involved in the offense, it is going to be impossible for him to be of much help to fantasy teams. Consider him droppable and start looking for other tight end options.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-03 09:20:08 2008-10-03 09:20:08

WRs Shaun McDonald and Mike Furrey are two players who are going to get more involved in the offense this week, so their fantasy value will see a little boost. If the Lions plan to spread the field more (something that WR Roy Williams spoke up about earlier in the season) then Calvin Johnson and Williams could also see an increase in production.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-03 22:38:18 2008-10-03 22:38:18

Boldin is unlikely to play in the Cardinals' Week Five game against the Buffalo Bills, which would obviously affect anyone who has him on their squad. In addition, Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston are left to fend against a Bills passing defense that is currently ranked ninth in the NFL. It may behoove you to plug in other options if possible who have better match ups.

BradRysz 2008-10-03 22:48:51 2008-10-03 22:48:51

The Seattle receiving core has been decimated by injuries through the first three weeks of the season, so the return of Branch is a big addition. Branch will line up opposite Billy McMullen or Keary Colbert. Bobby Engram is also returning from an injury, and will line up in the slot. Branch should be Matt Hasselbeck's most highly-targeted receiver and is in line for a nice day. The return of Branch and Engram increases the value of Hasselbeck, but probably downgrades John Carlson who won't be depended on to catch passes as much.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-03 23:34:33 2008-10-03 23:34:33

Roethlisberger's absence would send shock waves throughout the entire Steelers offense. They would also not necessarily be good ones. Highly touted "waiver wire winner" Mewelde Moore's value can go either way depending on how you look at the news. On one hand, he's likely to get more reps with Byron Leftwich or Dennis Dixon at QB. On the other, he's likely to face many a stacked box with the aforementioned two under center. Wide outs Santonio Holmes and Hines Ward's stock would also take a hit, so if you've had your eye on any of those players than this is definitely a situation to monitor very closely.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-04 09:38:25 2008-10-04 09:38:25

Like McCarthy said, this could go either way. Unless you have an inordinate amount of good luck, than your likely already used to monitoring hundreds of websites in order to get breaking news on game-time decisions every Sunday morning. Even if Rodgers does not start, both Packers RBs are solid starts against the Falcons rushing defense. Greg Jennings and Donald Driver on the other hand? You may want to look elsewhere unless your comfortable with rookie Matt Flynn throwing to them.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-04 11:04:54 2008-10-04 11:04:54

This would by all accounts make Russell the goal line back right now in Pittsburgh, especially when you take his running style into account. In the long run, he would also likely be a better compliment to Willie Parker then Mewelde Moore (for the same reason). It's a reach, but if your hurting for RB depth then picking up Russell could end up being a sneaky-smart move. Even more so if Ben Roethlisberger continues on his injury riddled 2008 path. If your unfamiliar with Russell, he's often described as a downhill runner and has been waiting for exactly this type of opportunity since 2006. All in all, he's a very intriguing prospect.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 07:15:27 2008-10-05 07:15:27

Branch could make for a reasonable bye week fill in, but look for another option if you have one. It could take some time for Branch to get back up to full speed coming off a knee injury.

TommyLandry 2008-10-04 23:38:26 2008-10-04 23:38:26

Engram looks like he might get even less action than Branch, although he has had success working out of the slot in the past. If you really need WR help, he is worth a shot, but don't sit a regular starter for him.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 11:20:39 2008-10-05 11:20:39

Simms was not being rostered in many fantasy leagues anyway.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 11:59:04 2008-10-05 11:59:04

The Lions are playing a good game of Poker with their public comments, but with Matt Millen out, don't be surprised to see them start to clear out "Matt's Guys." A trade to a better offense would only increase his value, and imagine what that would do for Calvin Johnson, who is already emerging as a major breakout this year.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-05 12:06:20 2008-10-05 12:06:20

How much he plays though, is a different story. Although it appears Westbrook will get the start, Correll Buckhalter will likely get the majority of the carries. No one's going to know just how healthy Westbrook is until he actually plays. However, he's a big enough of a home run threat that even when he's not at 100% it may be worth the risk to roll the dice.

BradRysz 2008-10-05 12:09:38 2008-10-05 12:09:38

Rodgers was questionable all week, but NFL.com has announced that Rodgers will indeed start today. The Falcons are giving up 201 passing yards per game so Rodgers should continue his progression as a viable fantasy quarterback.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-05 12:23:01 2008-10-05 12:23:01

This would likely only apply to you if your in a very, very, deep league -- but Marty Booker now has some real value. He's up against the Lions defense, which we can all agree just isn't very good, and with WR1 Brandon Lloyd out, will have a great opportunity to get a lot more looks than usual. If your in a bind, start Booker with semi-confidence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:20:24 2008-10-05 12:20:24

Make sure you remove Schaub from your starting lineups this week. This news caught us all by surprise and it remains to be seen if Schaub (who is not listed as inactive) will take part in the game at all.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:23:17 2008-10-05 12:23:17

Slaton is going to get most of the carries, so fantasy owners should not panic at this news.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:26:05 2008-10-05 12:26:05

No surprise here. Gates is nursing a sore hip, but remains a no. 1 TE for fantasy leagues. Miami presents a favorable match-up for the veteran.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-05 12:29:13 2008-10-05 12:29:13

Smith is a solid TE whose presence could very well take some of the pressure off of rookie standout Desean Jackson and newly healthy Reggie Brown. You may want to start another TE if you have a safer option though, at least until we all discover just how healthy Smith is and his role in the Eagles new-look offense.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:31:31 2008-10-05 12:31:31

The Ravens appear to be thrusting McGahee back into the starter's role despite the emergence of RB Le'Ron McClain. Watch this match-up closely to see if the injury-prone McGahee makes it through the entire game healthy and keep an eye on the distribution of carries.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:35:12 2008-10-05 12:35:12

Both were expected to play in Week Five although it is difficult to determine how big a role each will play in Seattle's offense this week as they make their season debuts.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:37:50 2008-10-05 12:37:50

Toomer is a solid veteran capable of putting up nice numbers this week as we already know QB Eli Manning has trust in him. Hixon is an intriguing option as he has shown flashes of being a play-maker on the field and a strong game this week could force the Giants to play the talented WR more as the season progresses.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-05 14:40:37 2008-10-05 14:40:37

His unimpressive stats thus far might make you think twice about starting him until he shows he can improve, but him being in the game will probably make Cincinnati's receivers more of a starting option.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-05 12:54:17 2008-10-05 12:54:17

This was expected, make sure he's not in your lineup

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 12:56:19 2008-10-05 12:56:19

That's a big hit to the Colts' rush defense, so Steve Slaton should be in for a solid day. If you're torn between Slaton and another borderline starter, don't be afraid to start the rookie.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-05 15:19:47 2008-10-05 15:19:47

It was expected Royal would be playing today, so make sure he's not sitting on your bench.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-05 15:28:25 2008-10-05 15:28:25

No surprise here, but he's got the green light to play, and that gives you the green light to start this great tight end.

BradRysz 2008-10-05 15:39:57 2008-10-05 15:39:57

With the injury to Boldin, Steve Breaston will fill-in and should be targeted often by Kurt Warner. Start Breaston with confidence.

BradRysz 2008-10-05 16:46:46 2008-10-05 16:46:46

Edwards will not return. This is bad news for any owner with a Bills player. Edwards was developing into a solid passer and Lee Evans and Josh Reed were improving each week. J.P. Losman relieved Edwards and promply fumbled in his first possesion. Consider Losman's presence a downgrade for Marshawn Lynch, Evans, and Reed.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-05 18:20:03 2008-10-05 18:20:03

Griese hadn't put up many points until his injury more than halfway through the game, but points are points. His return to the game is questionable, and Jeff Garcia was put in to replace him.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-05 18:33:00 2008-10-05 18:33:00

Royal went into the game with an ankle that was already giving him a little trouble, and this doesn't help. It didn't seem too severe an injury as he tried to walk off, but he still needed help from trainers to get off the field and into the locker room. The extent of his injury is unknown, though, thus making his return unknown. In the meantime, Brandon Stokley owners are benefiting as he was sent in to replace the rookie Royal.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 20:23:11 2008-10-05 20:23:11

What a nice performance from Orton, who has shown signs of turning a corner over the past two weeks. Perhaps he's for real, but don't read too much into a breakout game against the feeble Lions defense. If Orton duplicates this against a real defense, he'll have officially arrived as fantasy relevant.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 21:32:20 2008-10-05 21:32:20

Griese said after the game that the injury is nothing serious. Jeff Garcia entered the game, but was unable to close it out for a win. In other words, he didn't do enough to warrant a change of the guard if Griese is ready to go next weekend. The team should release more information on Monday, so stay tuned.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 21:37:29 2008-10-05 21:37:29

The team said they're concerned about the injury keeping Branch out for at least next week and possibly longer. If you were hoping to start him, start lining up a back up plan in case he isn't available.

TommyLandry 2008-10-05 21:41:14 2008-10-05 21:41:14

I guess it's too early to assume he has lost the starting gig, because the back spasms were likely at fault for all the errant passes. Still, back injuries don't just go away, so this situation bears watching in the coming days. Dan Orlovsky replaced Kitna, but he later left the game with a high ankle sprain of unknown severity, so the QB situation is officially a mess in Detroit.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-06 09:05:01 2008-10-06 09:05:01

Royal was on crutches after the injury while on the sidelines yesterday and stated that it is not a high ankle sprain. If he were to miss any time, it could affect WR Brandon Marshall's production as Royal's prescence takes some of the pressure off of Marshall. Royal, a rookie, was playing as a solid WR option for fantasy teams heading into Denver's Week Five game.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-06 09:10:55 2008-10-06 09:10:55

Westbrook received a painkiller shot in the ribs after heading to the sidelines but was rather ineffective after coming back into the game, totaling just 45 yards after his return. The talented RB has a long history of being banged up throughout the season and fantasy owners may have to take it week-by-week to see if his health allows him to play.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 09:16:50 2008-10-06 09:16:50

Chambers was enjoying a nice renaissance season with five touchdowns in as many games. If Chambers is out for any significant time, Vincent Jackson should see a big rise in production.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-06 09:17:20 2008-10-06 09:17:20

This is one of the better match-ups Berrian has had this season as the Saints secondary can be exposed by Berrian's deep-threat style. However, a banged up knee may keep him off the field and even if he does it play, it remains to be seen how effective he can be. Remember, he's also battling a toe injury that he's had all season.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 09:19:35 2008-10-06 09:19:35

Jordan had 106 yards on the season and was receiving rougly five carries per game. Kevin Faulk filled in and scored two touchdowns in goal-line duty. Faulk stands to gain the most from Jordan's injury.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 14:03:55 2008-10-06 14:03:55

Westbrook was posting his typical stellar numbers this year with six touchdowns in five games. If he does miss any time, expect Correll Buckhalter to receive a bulk of the carries.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 19:51:53 2008-10-06 19:51:53

Rice will be replaced by Bobby Wade. Wade is coming off a seven catch, 75-yard game in Week Four.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 14:10:20 2008-10-06 14:10:20

Tomlinson has definitely not been the top running back in fantasy football like many expeceted, and it's clear that he is nowhere near 100 percent. Tomlinson owners may want to sell-high on him as a few more 57-yard, no touchdown performances may be looming ahead.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 14:16:55 2008-10-06 14:16:55

Hasselbeck returned after the incident and threw for 105 and an interception. However, Hasselbeck claims his knee didn't affect his play. "We had other problems,” said Hasselbeck.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 09:34:31 2008-10-07 09:34:31

Now Griese is the QB on the mend just like Garcia was early in the year. Head coach Jon Gruden liked the way Garcia played when he came in for the departed Griese in their Week Five game and fantasy owners in need of a QB could do worse than picking Garcia up off waivers.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-06 16:45:41 2008-10-06 16:45:41

With Henderson being the leading tackler on the Vikings with 36, this may have an effect on their run defense, and pass defense as well. Rookie free agent, David Herron, is Henderson's backup for now. Look to see how the team performs against the Saints Monday night, as they allowed three rushing TDs last week against the Titans.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 17:11:11 2008-10-06 17:11:11

Rodgers managed to throw for 313 yards and three touchdowns this week against a decent Falcons secondary. The Packers aren't taking chances with Rodgers and he will likely start against the Seahawks on Sunday.

BradRysz 2008-10-06 17:16:49 2008-10-06 17:16:49

Joe Klopfenstein replaces McMichael in the starting lineup. Klopfenstein has only eight receiving yards this season so don't bother running to your free agent list to pick him up.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 09:42:07 2008-10-07 09:42:07

Westbrook admitted he had difficulty playing last week even after receiving a pain-killer injection into his ribs on Sunday so this is no small injury. The Eagles have a bye in Week Seven so it will be interesting to see how they handle their star RB heading into Sunday's game.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 09:50:30 2008-10-07 09:50:30

Concussions are a delicate issue that vary in severity from player to player. The Giants did say that Hixon is improved in his condition, but New York is under no pressure to rush him back to the field with their arsenal of weapons and 4-0 record. Hixon is an intriguing player for fantasy purposes, but if you own him, make sure there are other options available to play as he may miss this week's contest.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-08 09:09:30 2008-10-08 09:09:30

Porter had the third most tackles on the team and this is a blow to an already porous defense.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:01:27 2008-10-07 10:01:27

There are not many answers concerning Edwards health at the moment but you can bet that the Bills' medical staff will be working hard to determine the severity of his concussion. Fantasy owners who have Edwards on their roster should be looking at QB alternatives for Week Seven just in case he has to miss any time.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:07:13 2008-10-07 10:07:13

The Chiefs seem committed to sticking with Croyle being as head coach Herman Edwards stated that the job belongs to Croyle "unless we have something go haywire with him. He's ready to go." If you need a starting QB, Croyle is certainly an option, but the Chiefs offense has had their fair share of problems generating points.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:15:10 2008-10-07 10:15:10

Perry has had issues with fumbling the ball recently, especially in key moments of the game. Benson has been a bust in his career, but is getting a second chance with the Bengals. Neither player has much fantasy value at this point of the year, but keep an eye on this situation in case one takes hold of a featured role.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:20:31 2008-10-07 10:20:31

This is great news for fantasy owners rostering RB Julius Jones, though with WR Bobby Engram rounding into form, its 28th ranked passing offense should improve.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:28:20 2008-10-07 10:28:20

The Broncos have always been a headache for fantasy owners because of the carousel of running backs they run through, but with their offense, a RB getting the majority of touches for this team is likely to be a productive option. Keep in mind, however, that the team is loaded with RB talent and with Ryan Torain expected to be back with the club in a couple of weeks, it is only going to get more cluttered.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-07 10:33:55 2008-10-07 10:33:55

The entire San Diego offense seems to be dealing with some nagging injury or another and things will not get any easier for them as they will play the Patriots this week. Rivers is expected to play but if teams keep getting consistent pressure on him, his "bumps and bruises" may turn into something far worse. He's still a great fantasy QB, but the offense has been rather inconsistent in the early going.

BradRysz 2008-10-07 13:32:35 2008-10-07 13:32:35

Branch caught three passes for 31 yards before the injury. If Branch is out, Billy McMullen or Keary Colbert would likely fill in.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-07 15:14:27 2008-10-07 15:14:27

Rodgers looked great, but was clearly playing through pain. He was very accurate and still managed to complete two long touchdown passes, one to Donald Driver and another to Greg Jennings. The Packers square off against a Seattle defense that was punished by the Giants last week. Rodgers is unlikely to put in a full week of practice but will most likely be a go this week.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-07 16:38:32 2008-10-07 16:38:32

The Texans will welcome Schaub back with open arms. Backup Sage Rosenfels looked good early on against the Colts, then completely imploded, turning the ball over three times in the last four minutes of the game. This led to a huge Colts comeback. Texans coach Gary Kubiak said “Matt’s still a little weak, but he should be fine". The disappointing Texans host a suddenly surging Miami Dolphins team this week. Schaub looked extremely sharp against Jacksonville in Week Four, so his owners should feel comfortable starting him this week, especially as a bye week fill in.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-07 18:39:52 2008-10-07 18:39:52

Burress' absence did nothing to slow down the Giants offense, who without him racked up more than 500 total yards this past Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks. Even after missing two of the teams contests, Burress still leads the team in receiving yardage with 259 yards on 18 receptions. He is tied for second on the team in receiving touchdowns (with one) and is sure to remain a top fantasy wide receiver.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-07 18:50:08 2008-10-07 18:50:08

Blackstock is averaging one tackle per game this season, so it's unlikely the Bengals won't be able to find someone to put up those numbers at his position. If the Cincinnati Bengals are your primary DEF/ST unit though, then you have many more pressing matters to worry about than this. Like going and finding another DEF/ST, for instance.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-08 09:12:39 2008-10-08 09:12:39

Taylor entered the season as a sleeper for the first couple of weeks due to the injuries to Seattle's receiving corps, but failed to do much with the opportunity. Fantasy owners can ignore him even if he signs with another club.

BradRysz 2008-10-07 21:43:33 2008-10-07 21:43:33

Reed hasn't missed a field goal this season, so he still remains a solid fantasy kicker.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-08 09:20:19 2008-10-08 09:20:19

Cribbs is a valuable option for fantasy leagues that reward kick or punt return stats for individual players and the Browns had even designed a play package around Cribbs during training camp. He's not going to get a ton of looks on the offense as he is still primarily a special teams player, but the team obviously likes his electric style of play.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-08 12:55:10 2008-10-08 12:55:10

Doctors had to wait for the MCL to heal before repairing the ACL. Brady is looking at a recovery time of six to eight months. Brady will be able to start in Week One of the 2009 season, barring any setbacks.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-08 13:50:05 2008-10-08 13:50:05

Harrison has admitted to being in a fight that day and to owning the gun that was used as the weapon in the shooting. Harrison's off-field issues may be the reason for his decline in stats this season.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-08 14:48:59 2008-10-08 14:48:59

Michael Pittman looks to be the favorite for the bulk of the carries this week. Andre Hall will likely be in the mix as well. Pittman makes for a nice RB2 play and Hall can be used as a flex-play this week. Jacksonville is giving up 106.8 rushing yards per game so far this season.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-08 15:17:16 2008-10-08 15:17:16

Backup Dan Orlovsky and third- stringer Drew Stanton split first team reps in practice today, Stanton said he took more reps than Orlovsky. After entering the game to a round of cheers, Orlovsky injured his knee and ankle in the Lions loss to the Bears on Sunday. As of right now, it looks like Drew Stanton will get his first taste of regular season action in the NFL.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-08 16:04:15 2008-10-08 16:04:15

Palmer injured the elbow against the Giants during Week Three, which led him to miss the Bengals game the following week versus Cleveland. He returned last week against Dallas and looked alright, throwing for 217 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in the loss. Palmer needs to pick up his production before he can be relied on as an every week fantasy starter.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-08 16:59:19 2008-10-08 16:59:19

Gramatica did not have much fantasy value as he only made 60 percent of his FGs and could not put the big one through, losing two games for the Saints in the process. Mehlhaff is a good pickup if your regular kicker is on bye, as the Saints have a potent offense.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-08 23:43:17 2008-10-08 23:43:17

Add another violation to the list. However, the Cowboys have said that no disciplinary action will go against Jones. Currently, this has no fantasy impact, but it shows that Jones is still a troublemaker, and can go off at anytime.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 09:24:07 2008-10-09 09:24:07

Harris is a three-time Pro Bowl DT whose return is a big boost to the rush defense of Chicago. He's a huge part of this defensive unit and fantasy owners rostering the Bears should be thrilled that Harris is playing with a renewed vigor as he is an impact player.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 14:43:19 2008-10-09 14:43:19

Nate Jackson will be the primary pass-catching tight end in Scheffler's absence while Daniel Graham will pass-block. Neither are intriguing fantasy options this weekend. Scheffler was having a fine season with 259 yards and two touchdowns. The injury shouldn't affect Jay Cutler's performance as he still has Brandon Marshall to throw the ball to.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 09:33:05 2008-10-09 09:33:05

It remains to be seen if this will light a fire under the offense as they head into a critical match-up against Green Bay this Sunday, but fantasy owners should at least feel a little better about the team's offense as a whole since they will have something to prove in Week Six.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 09:41:18 2008-10-09 09:41:18

Harrell has been considered a bust thus far in his young career, but Green Bay is looking for all the help they can get at this point. The Packers have been poor against the run this year (mostly due to the loss of DE Cullen Jenkins) and the defensive line is short-handed. Harris claims his back is now fine and Green Bay's defensive unit should get a slight fantasy upgrade upon his return.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 09:48:17 2008-10-09 09:48:17

Garcia has stated that he has put his past issues with the Buccaneers behind him. He has more fantasy appeal than Griese does, but his long-term outlook is cloudy as an MRI revealed Griese has no structural damage to his throwing arm. Head coach Jon Gruden has made no commitments to a QB this week, let alone the remainder of the season.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 09:54:37 2008-10-09 09:54:37

Jarrett has not been activated for a game since WR Steve Smith returned to the team and has been a disappointment thus far with the Panthers. He has the talent to be a solid fantasy WR, but it's just a matter of getting it done on the field. His teammates are encouraged by his work ethic and attitude in his second season, which is positive news from a fantasy standpoint.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-09 10:03:12 2008-10-09 10:03:12

White was listed on the practice report with a head injury but the team believes he will be fine to start on Sunday against Chicago. Fantasy owners should have no qualms starting him in Week Six as it stands, but we'll montitor his status this week just to be safe.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-09 11:23:32 2008-10-09 11:23:32

Davis says that the Patriots brought Randy Moss in for a workout prior to a 2007 trade. In the deal, Moss was sent to Patriots in exchange for a fourth round draft pick. The Raiders could receive a $250,000 fine as well as the loss of one or two draft picks.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-09 11:54:24 2008-10-09 11:54:24

Flacco has been less than impressive this season and is arguably the sole reason for the Ravens inept offense. He is currently the 29th rated passer in the NFL, with a 1:4 touchdown to interception ratio. Troy Smith, who was expected to challenge Flacco for playing time when he returned from a tonsil infection is currently the Ravens number three quarterback, behind Todd Bouman.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 14:50:43 2008-10-09 14:50:43

Browns head coach Romeo Crennel would not say if Winslow would start on Monday night. Steve Heiden would likely fill in if Winslow can't go on Monday night. Winslow's absence would mean a downgrade to an already suspect Derek Anderson.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 20:46:54 2008-10-09 20:46:54

"I thought he was pretty decisive in his cuts, in his movement, which is important now where we are," coach Marvin Lewis said. The Bengals are 30th in the NFL averaging only 78.0 rushing yards per game, so Benson should see some action in the next few weeks in an attempt to improve the run game. Chris Perry now has five fumbles on the season, so the Bengals may be losing patience with him. You can do worse than having Benson on your bench at this point. He shouldn't be starting for any fantasy teams, but more of a stash-and-watch type at this point.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 20:55:48 2008-10-09 20:55:48

If Westbrook can't go against San Francisco, Correll Buckhalter would start at running back. Buckhalter has rushed for 114 yards and a touchdown while spelling Westbrook. Buckhalter would make a solid RB2 this week as the 49ers are giving up 128.4 rushing yards per game.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 20:59:40 2008-10-09 20:59:40

Brown had 163 yards in two games since returning from the hamstring injury. If he can't go, rookie DeSean Jackson sees a rise in value.

BradRysz 2008-10-09 21:11:43 2008-10-09 21:11:43

Walker was becoming a consistent force in the Jacksonville passing game, totaling 153 yards in the past two games. If he can go, Walker is a viable WR3. If he can't play, Matt Jones is a good bet to be David Garrard's top target.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 08:44:01 2008-10-10 08:44:01

Head coach Jim Zorn stated that if Taylor were to practice on Friday with no setbacks, he would suit up for Week Six, though it does not mean Taylor would automatically play. The Redskins defensive unit would get a boost in fantasy value upon Taylor's return.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:03:06 2008-10-10 09:03:06

Portis ran rough-shod over the Eagles defense in Week Five and Philadelphia will have a tall task ahead of them as bruising RB Frank Gore and the Mike Martz offense in San Francisco are up next for them. DE Victor Abiamiri is expected to return this week, which is a boost for this unit. This week's match-up should help show fantasy owners whether this defensive unit is a real No. 1-type fantasy defense or more of a match-up play.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:16:28 2008-10-10 09:16:28

Many thought Davis would flourish under the Mike Martz system but TEs have historically been featured as pass-blocking players under Martz. Things do not figure to change anytime soon for Davis and it may be time to cut bait on him if there are more attractive options on the waiver wire.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:22:11 2008-10-10 09:22:11

Jackson has been looking at his game film and nit-picking at anything he can to find ways to improve his offensive production. This is great news for Jackson owners and with head coach Jim Haslett stating that the Rams playmakers need to touch the ball more often, Jackson could be in for some huge numbers going forward.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:28:31 2008-10-10 09:28:31

While Kitna wasn't exactly a fantasy behemoth, Orlovsky starting at QB brings the value of Detroit's offense down. Since Detroit is going against a tough Minnesota defense and will be playing with a new QB or a banged-up one, none of the Lions' offensive players are good starts this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:37:43 2008-10-10 09:37:43

You can bet the house that the Browns' trash talk has made its way to the Giants' bullentin board this week. The Browns defense did not match-up well against the Giants offense before all this smack talk went down and you can expect New York to play with a chip on its shoulder this week. Jacobs should be in for a huge day this week for fantasy owners as the Browns have surrendered at least 117 yards rushing yards this season in all but one game in 2008.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:50:27 2008-10-10 09:50:27

Backup QBs Seneca Wallace and Charlie Frye would be next in line to start if Hasselbeck could not play in this week's game with Travis Lulay also on hand. Wallace has been missing practice as well though so if Hasselbeck is not able to go this week, the Seahawks offensive players all get a fantasy downgrade for Week Six.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:53:30 2008-10-10 09:53:30

Atlanta expects White to be back at practice Friday, so right now there is nothing for his fantasy owners to be alarmed about. The decision for the Falcons to hold White out of practice is reportedly precautionary.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-10 09:58:36 2008-10-10 09:58:36

At this point, Colston is the safer bet to play on Sunday instead of Shockey, though both players are trying to return Week Six. The playing status of both players should be a bit clearer after the Saints practice on Friday so fantasy owners will want to stay tuned.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-10 11:25:20 2008-10-10 11:25:20

Winslow should be released from the hospital sometime today. The questionable tag means he has a 50/50 shot at playing this week. The Browns need all the help they can get on offense and losing Winslow does not help their cause.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-10 11:49:01 2008-10-10 11:49:01

Croyle, who injured the shoulder in Week One has taken first team reps all week in preparation to resume his role as the Chiefs starting quarterback. This could be bad news for Dwayne Bowe, who has yet to develop any chemistry with Croyle.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-10 12:15:42 2008-10-10 12:15:42

The beef with Maroney has been that he isn't hitting the hole hard enough when he gets the ball. He had an abysmal game last week against the 49ers, carrying the ball 10 times for 26 yards. When asked about Maroney's ineffectiveness Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said "I think there were some situations in the game where there wasn't much there on a few plays and then there were some other plays, not just singling out Laurence, that there was more yards." He went on to say, "There is always that in the running game. When you carry the ball 43 times, there are going to be plays where there are more yards than you gained and there are going to be other plays where maybe you didn't gain as much as you blocked it for. I didn't really notice much difference. He practiced fine [Wednesday]. The backs are all running the ball well and we expect that to go forward." Many owners took Maroney in hopes that he could rebound from a horrible 2007 season, to this point he has done nothing of the sort. The Patriots square off against the Chargers this week. Keep Maroney reserved.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-10 13:30:09 2008-10-10 13:30:09

Fitzpatrick had a rough first outing against the Browns a couple weeks ago. Don't count on him to be your starter this week unless you are desperate. The Jets pass defense isn't the best, but neither was the Browns. Of course, this also drops the value of anyone receiving the ball for the Bengals. If you have more options than Chad Ocho Cinco and TJ Houshmandzadeh, go to them.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 13:34:35 2008-10-10 13:34:35

The Westbrook news doesn't come as that major of a surprise considering he has two broken ribs. Correll Buckhalter will start in his place and makes an average RB2 start. Brown's absence will make DeSean Jackson a top target for Donovan McNabb.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-10 14:55:55 2008-10-10 14:55:55

Fitzpatrick looked rough against the Browns in Week Four. This is bad news for T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson. But, even with Palmer out, both should still be considered decent fantasy options, simply because the Jets pass defense can be had.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 15:45:49 2008-10-10 15:45:49

Apparently the injury isn't considered to be serious, and Winslow still may play on Monday night. Winslow and the Browns have a big game on Monday Night versus the Giants and the absence of Winslow would be a big blow to the team. If he can't go, Steve Heiden would fill in at tight end.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 16:38:32 2008-10-10 16:38:32

Steve Breaston will continue to start opposite Larry Fitzgerald and provide solid numbers. Breaston has 199 yards in his last two games while filling in for Boldin. He is a low-end WR2 for this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 16:47:24 2008-10-10 16:47:24

If Colston returns this week it would be an early return for the star receiver. Colston would wear a splint that would help to avoid any further to the thumb. If he plays, Colston instantly returns to WR1 status. Lance Moore would start opposite him, while Devery Henderson and Robert Meachem would see a decline in value.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 16:53:55 2008-10-10 16:53:55

The Packers defense is second in the NFL with nine interceptions this season which is bad news for Frye and the Seahawks. Frye threw 17 interceptions to only 10 touchdowns in 2006, when he started 13 games for the Cleveland Browns. With Bobby Engram as his only reliable receiver, Frye has a tough task on Sunday. Look for other options at the quarterback position this weekend.

BradRysz 2008-10-10 17:14:46 2008-10-10 17:14:46

Walker has 12 catches and 161 yards, 107 of which came against the Steelers last Sunday night. Matt Jones is a good bet to be the Jaguars most productive receiver while Walker is out.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-10 21:08:30 2008-10-10 21:08:30

Fargas looked both strong and hungry at the beginning of this season before he missed two games with a groin injury. Although the team will likely give both Michael Bush and McFadden some of the carries, interim head coach Tom Cable is eager for Fargas' return, saying that Fargas was the "most consistent runner in the Raiders' system." Although he may not be at full strength while he fully recovers from his groin injury, Fargas has proved in the games that he has played this season that last year was indeed not a fluke and that he can produce consistently for his (and your) squad.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-10 22:30:31 2008-10-10 22:30:31

While its not terribly clear why Brian Griese has been the starting QB in the first place, Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden has no other choice but to swallow his pride and allow Garcia to start. Should Garcia play on the same level that he's been playing at for the past couple of years, it's hard to imagine the team even considering going back to Griese -- unless the whole situation between Gruden and Garcia really IS that sour. Depending on the patience and/or waiver wire whoring level of the rest of the people in your league, you may even be able to pluck the San Jose State alum right off of your leagues waiver wire.

SteveLoveless 2008-10-10 21:36:21 2008-10-10 21:36:21

Kevin Curtis is coming off a career year with 77 receptions and six touchdowns. He can provide Donovan McNabb with another deep threat alongside DeSean Jackson.

BradRysz 2008-10-11 12:55:39 2008-10-11 12:55:39

Vincent Jackson now should be considered the Chargers best wide receiver threat. Philip Rivers has struggled lately, but Jackson is still a WR3 for Sunday's game. This injury also likely increases Antonio Gates value, since Chambers was Rivers top red zone target.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 10:01:04 2008-10-12 10:01:04

Dan Orlovsky will likely start in Kitna's place. This would be the first start in Orlovsky's career, and judging by his performance last week against Chicago (13-for-23, 97 yards, one interception) he should not be started in any format. Drew Stanton may also see some playing time.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 13:45:04 2008-10-12 13:45:04

This is a hard hit on Addai owners. Dominic Rhodes will get more carries as a result.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 13:28:15 2008-10-12 13:28:15

It's looking worse for Winslow owners as he remains hospitalized. If you're able to replace Winslow for this week, seriously consider it.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 11:27:50 2008-10-12 11:27:50

Shockey wasn't really expected to play this week, but it's looking like Week Seven against the Panthers is a good bet. Billy Miller will continue to start at tight end with Shockey out. Miller makes a decent sleeper option this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 11:33:16 2008-10-12 11:33:16

This Colts run defense is questionable at best, so this is a good opportunity for McGahee to have a good game. He claims he is finally feeling healthy so start him with confidence this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 11:41:18 2008-10-12 11:41:18

If you own Graham, make sure he is out of your lineup. Rayner isn't a great option with the Bengals poor offense.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 11:56:56 2008-10-12 11:56:56

Colston was listed as questionable and there was talk that he might play this week, but that's all been shot down as he's been officially ruled out from playing. The fantasy value for Lance Moore, Devery Henderson and Robert Meachem now go up in Colston's absence.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 12:12:11 2008-10-12 12:12:11

Lloyd will not be playing this week as a result of his knee, and Rashied Davis will get the start in his place. This also improves Devin Hester's value and he looks to be a solid sleeper option for this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 12:26:11 2008-10-12 12:26:11

White had a solid game against a decent Packers pass defense last week and is playing a weaker Bears pass defense. White should have a good game and is a definite starter for your league.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 12:34:33 2008-10-12 12:34:33

McFadden will share the field with Fargas, who is the probable starter. McFadden is more of an injury risk considering his toe, so Fargas might be a safer start for your league this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 12:36:33 2008-10-12 12:36:33

Bobby Wade will lineup opposite Bernard Berrian for the Vikings. Aundrae Allison will also see extra playing time and is a sleeper start for this week for teams looking for wide receiver help.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 12:48:08 2008-10-12 12:48:08

After a dismal performance from replacement Sage Rosenfels in Week Five against Indianapolis, Schaub has recovered from a stomach illness and is back to take on the Dolphins. This match up is a plus for Schaub and he should do well.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 12:51:47 2008-10-12 12:51:47

Lance Moore, Devery Henderson and Robert Meachem have been the top receivers for the Saints the past few weeks and this further guarantees that will be the case this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 12:54:06 2008-10-12 12:54:06

Gonzalez will be playing, but that doesn't mean you should start him. He's facing a tough defense, and should be avoided if you have better options with better match ups.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 15:05:12 2008-10-12 15:05:12

Hart is the second Indianapolis running back to get injured this afternoon. Dominic Rhodes will get even more carries, seeing as he is the sole tailback remaining on the Colts' roster.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 15:12:35 2008-10-12 15:12:35

It's a shame to see a rookie as talented at Royal unable to play, but his ankle is keeping him sidelined. Start Brandon Stokley if able.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 15:38:25 2008-10-12 15:38:25

Curtis would have been a nice play this week with Reggie Brown out. DeSean Jackon, Hank Baskett, and L.J. Smith will receive extra attention with Curtis out.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 15:45:05 2008-10-12 15:45:05

It was no surprise that Hasselbeck would sit out this week's game due to his knee. Charlie Frye will start for his first time this season in Hasselbeck's place.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 15:51:42 2008-10-12 15:51:42

Branch injured his heel last week against the Giants and is still not ready to play. Bobby Engram and Koren Robinson are excepted to see more action because of this, but we still don't know how well Hasselbeck's replacement Charlie Frye will be at throwing them the football.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-12 16:22:07 2008-10-12 16:22:07

McGahee came into the game healthy enough, but not at full health. We're waiting to hear exactly what kind of injury he left the game with, but as long as he's out, Ray Rice and Le'Ron McClain get more action.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 19:59:33 2008-10-12 19:59:33

Vincent Jackson will likely see the most targets for the Chargers. Jackson becomes a WR2 option. Antonio Gates will see more action as well.

BradRysz 2008-10-12 20:01:37 2008-10-12 20:01:37

With Maroney out, Sammy Morris will get a majority of the carries. San Diego has a talented defense, but teams have been able to run on them this season. Morris should be in for an effective evening.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-13 00:56:37 2008-10-13 00:56:37

If Smith has an injury that will leave him out for a period of time, Rudi Johnson would be a good bye week fill-in. Even though the DET running game is horrible and Johnson only had 38 yards on 17 carries against the Vikings, there is still potential (as seen in Smith's 50 yard carry Sunday). If the Lions defense continues to play inspired ball, maybe a win and some rushing TDs are in the foreseeable future.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-13 09:17:20 2008-10-13 09:17:20

The Plain Dealer is giving Winslow a 25 percent chance of playing Monday so it looks like he will not be available to play against New York. However, fantasy owners should at least be pleased to know he is no longer being hospitalized as Winslow remains an elite TE. Backup TE Steve Heiden is expected to start in Winslow's place should he miss the game.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-13 09:23:52 2008-10-13 09:23:52

Addai injured the hamstring early in the first quarter and left the game with only three yards on two carries. The fact that he didn't return to the game puts him in danger of missing Week Seven at Green Bay. Dominic Rhodes looked good in relief of Addai and would likely get the bulk of the carries if Addai misses next week. The Colts are suddenly looking thin at running back, rookie Mike Hart also injured his knee in the contest and will likely miss next week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-13 09:23:53 2008-10-13 09:23:53

Gonzalez's fantasy value would see a major boost if he were to get traded to New York as their offense is far superior to that of the lowly Chiefs. The trade deadline is Tuesday, so there is not much time to work something out. The Eagles, Packers and Bills are also interested in Gonzalez, but the Giants appear to be the team pining after him the most.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-13 09:49:01 2008-10-13 09:49:01

Hasselbeck and head coach Mike Holmgren believed he was going to play Sunday early in the week, but Hasselbeck's injury (which is currently being described as a hyperextended knee) proved to be more serious than originally thought. The entire Seahawks offense loses significant fantasy value without Hasselbeck under center should he continue to miss time.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-13 10:01:40 2008-10-13 10:01:40

This is another blow to the Green Bay defense. They've already had so much trouble this season stopping the run and losing Pickett is going to hurt their rush defense even more if he has to miss any significant time. At this point, the Packers defense is not a recommended unit for fantasy purposes.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-13 10:40:22 2008-10-13 10:40:22

The Ravens offense has looked less than impressive under Flacco's leadership. He has thrown seven interceptions in his last four games, while only tossing one touchdown pass. Don't expect the change to come next week, but he is obviously on a short leash.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-13 13:48:13 2008-10-13 13:48:13

Colston was surprisingly inactive this week after returning to practice Wednesday and continued to practice through the rest of the week. The Saints obviously felt comfortable enough about their chances against the Raiders without Colston. They made the right move in not rushing him back, he should be ready to go this week as the Saints head to Carolina.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-13 12:05:07 2008-10-13 12:05:07

This obviously has a huge effect on the many fantasy teams who count on Romo.. For at least four weeks, Brad Johnson will be the Dallas quarterback. His last full time duties came in 2006 with the Vikings when he finished with nine TDs and 15 interceptions in 15 games. He is a veteran with many weapons at his service. If you need a QB, he will be a decent fill-in next week against the Rams, however, for the next three weeks opponents include TB, NYG, and WAS.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-13 13:35:25 2008-10-13 13:35:25

This is a huge step forward for Edwards. Many expected him to be a question mark heading into this week, but the fact that he put in a full workout should calm the situation. Edwards said that he expects to play Week Seven against the Chargers.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 19:20:13 2008-10-13 19:20:13

It seems that even Jon Gruden's stubborn nature couldn't realistically overcome not starting Garcia again after a romping of the division rival Carolina Panthers. Garcia didn't put up eye-popping numbers by any means, finishing the game with 173 yards and a TD. However, what was eye popping was his completion percentage -- which clocked in at a ridiculously fantastic 75 percent when the clock struck zero. It's unlikely he's still going to be on your leagues waiver wire, but with the bye weeks causing havoc on fantasy rosters nation wide, he's definitely a tantalizing option to add via trade if need be.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-13 19:26:32 2008-10-13 19:26:32

Everyone was guessing that Tynes would replace Carney when he was ready to play. But with Carney making all 12 of his field goal attempts this year, he's held on to the starting position for this week.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 19:43:19 2008-10-13 19:43:19

The Colts are reportedly considering signing undrafted rookie Chad Simpson from their practice squad, so its not very hard to surmise that Rhodes will likely prove to be the more valuable of the two. The teams next two games are also against the Packers and Titans, respectively, so unless your strapped and have no other options, it would probably be best to first look elsewhere for help.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 20:04:52 2008-10-13 20:04:52

Hopefully you weren't banking on Winslow to play as your flex this week, because if so, your likely uttering things that would make your mother ashamed of you. If you're incredibly, incredibly desperate, Dominic Hixon is still available in approximately 99.9 percent of fantasy leagues -- so if your league has automatic waiver wire additions, might I suggest snagging Hixon and starting him? He's an upside play for sure, but Winslow would absolutely give you zero points. Hixon could potentially give you one or two, yes, but could also put up ten.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 20:10:55 2008-10-13 20:10:55

Not only does this affect Hasselbeck owners (Duh), but it also affects the sly owners who picked up Bobby Engram and Deion Branch right before they returned from injury. Charlie Frye is currently slated to start for the Seahawks in Hasselbeck's absence, and I have enough confidence in our readers to know that I absolutely do not even need to elaborate on that. Sit all Seahawks wideouts this week, and feel great about it.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-13 20:38:17 2008-10-13 20:38:17

It's a tough blow for Stokley owners seeing as he was getting more action in his last three games and was poised to get more in Eddie Royal's absense. It's also a tough blow for the Broncos, who already are without Eddie Royal and Tony Scheffler. Stokley is going to have to pass mental acuity tests before he can be cleared to play next Monday against the Patriots.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-13 21:53:05 2008-10-13 21:53:05

Coach Jim Zorn said on Monday that he can't comment on the degree of Betts' injury. This throws Rock Cartwright right behind Clinton Portis in the depth chart if the MRI results come back and the Browns decide to keep Betts off the field next Sunday.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 21:55:21 2008-10-13 21:55:21

If Alexander can get back to even around 65% of his former form, then the Portis/Alexander one-two punch could potentially be a very scary one. It would be wise to wait to hear more news on both Alexander's physical and Betts' knee injury before using a precious waiver-wire pickup on the former TD juggernaut.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 22:21:13 2008-10-13 22:21:13

True, Brady will absolutely, positively not return this season. That is a fact. However, if your fantasy team is 1-5 or 0-6 (hopefully its not), then you have to start looking towards next year at some point right? Plus, ACL and MCL injuries are almost always very tricky, so it's the first positive thing we've gotten about Tom Brady so far. Its also the most important news in his overall trek to return at the start of next season.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-13 22:29:27 2008-10-13 22:29:27

This is in no way fantasy related, but I think I speak for everyone at RotoExperts.com when I wish Richard Collier, as well as his friends and family, a speedy and productive recovery.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-14 00:18:59 2008-10-14 00:18:59

With multiple instances this year of running backs Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas, and Michael Bush showing what they can do, the Raiders apparently have decided they can only utilize only two of them. Realistic expectations for sure, and if you picked up Michael Bush during the Fargas injury and subsequently kept him, you'll be rewarded ten-fold if this falls through. Both McFadden and Fargas' stock was high as it was, but if Fargas leaves, Bush's stock goes skyward. If Bush leaves, McFadden and Fargas' value essentially stay the same -- with an injury making either one even more valuable. If Bush goes to a team that is in dire need of a RB (I'm looking at you Cincinnati) then his stock would multiply. All in all, this has the potential to shake up fantasy leagues worldwide. Definitely keep an eye on further updates.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-14 01:07:17 2008-10-14 01:07:17

Hart had a magnetic resonance imaging test performed on him after his injury and it doesn't look good if Dungy is coming out and saying it could be a while for the rookie running back. A specific injury has not been disclosed yet, but it's bad enough that they're looking to add another running back to the depth chart, which can happen sometime this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-14 08:35:53 2008-10-14 08:35:53

While it's good news that Branch is going to play, he's not going to have QB Matt Hasselbeck throwing to him this week and is a poor fantasy option against Tampa Bay Sunday night.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-14 08:41:25 2008-10-14 08:41:25

Leonard's injury, coupled with backup RB Antonio Pittman's fractured leg, forces the Rams to go out and find a RB or two to backup Steven Jackson for at least the next couple of games. Pittman is expected to be back in a week or two so he is still the most likely candidate to have a big impact on the running game if Jackson were to ever get hurt.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-14 08:46:37 2008-10-14 08:46:37

Hamstring injuries are no joke and Jones, who relies heavily on his legs and speed, could be a fantasy liability the rest of the way as a result. Keep him rostered if you own him, but check back for any updates on his hurting hammy.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-14 08:52:47 2008-10-14 08:52:47

Well it looks like Williams is staying in Detroit and that puts the kibosh on any hopes that his fantasy owners had that he would move to a more stat-friendly club. Treat Williams as a low-end receiver and keep him off your lineup on most weeks unless he has a favorable match-up.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-14 09:01:02 2008-10-14 09:01:02

The team is leaving the option on the table of bringing Williams back for this season, but they do not really have a need for him with Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn being an effective one-two RB punch for the Bucs. Fantasy owners certainly shoud not go adding Williams anytime soon.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-14 11:20:00 2008-10-14 11:20:00

Kitna has muscular damage in his lower back and the move to the IR ends a brutal season for the veteran QB. His career as a Detroit Lion is all but over. This leaves the Lions with Dan Orlovsky, Drew Stanton and Drew Henson at quarterback. Expect Orlovsky to make his second career start next week against Houston. None of the Lions quarterbacks are fantasy options at this point.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-14 12:55:03 2008-10-14 12:55:03

With Chambers sidelined, Malcom Floyd made a nice impact, catching three balls for 75 yards and a touchdown. Vincent Jackson also had a big game himself, with five catches for 134 yards and a touchdown. With the return of Chambers, don't expect Floyd to have much of a chance to build on his strong performance. Jackson is still a nice WR3 option. The Chargers hit the road this week to face the Bills, whose defense is yielding only 185 passing yards per game.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 09:55:16 2008-10-15 09:55:16

Gonzalez is obviously nearing the end of his career and figures to waste away in Kansas City. The Chiefs are in the midst of rebuilding and don't figure to contend for a couple of years. The Chiefs were holding out for a third round pick, but no team wanted to spend that on a 32 year old tight end, nearing the end of his Hall of Fame career. It's a shame the Chiefs couldn't get something worked out for Gonzalez.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 09:44:48 2008-10-15 09:44:48

Palmer's elbow is inflamed, but the ulnar nerve is not damaged, which would result in surgery. The Bengals coaching staff will continue to take a conservative approach with Palmer. It looks like Ryan Fitzpatrick is going to be the starting QB in Cincinnati for the foreseeable future. This spells bad news for T. J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-14 16:20:09 2008-10-14 16:20:09

Roy Williams stock is now sky-high, with Patrick Crayton's taking a nose-dive. Terrell Owens, whose stock will go up due to the amount attention on him lessening with Williams' presence, will likely pout for several days or weeks to come. Keep an eye on the situation as a whole, but what a league shaking deadline deal! This is sure to send shockwaves that will be felt in fantasy leagues nation wide.

BradRysz 2008-10-14 17:48:07 2008-10-14 17:48:07

Check it all the action and view it live by clicking on the link below.

BradRysz 2008-10-14 18:12:58 2008-10-14 18:12:58

Portis is having a fantastic season so don't expect Alexander to cut into his carries too much. Alexander should get in the 5-10 carries per game range. Don't rush to to the free agent list to pick him up.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-14 22:32:45 2008-10-14 22:32:45

The real question is, what's the difference between a pinky injury and a thumb injury when in conjunction with having to throw a football? Even if Romo plays with a splint on his pinky finger, it's still likely to hinder his play and is also sure to "hurt like hell" just like Brett Favre said. Big, tough, brownie points for Romo if he plays, but it may be the best thing for the team if he lets it heal a game or two. Your players don't get fantasy points for being tough, after all. At the very least, this proposition by Favre may shorten the amount of time it will take Romo to actually return, that is considering if he doesn't play this week against the Rams. Translation: Think twice, nay, thrice about starting Romo if he does play this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-14 19:14:04 2008-10-14 19:14:04

Manning says he was just "banged up". This is more information in favor of Manning playing on Sunday against San Fransisco, though it's still worth keeping an eye on him to make sure he is at practice this week. He says he expects to be there.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-15 08:42:26 2008-10-15 08:42:26

Copper was a casualty of an overstocked receiving corps in New Orleans, though the team did express interest in bringing him back at some point this season. For now, continue to ignore Copper in all fantasy leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-15 08:52:51 2008-10-15 08:52:51

There are a couple of unsigned players out there capable of bringing some stability to the FB until Askew is ready to return, Askew may even be rushed back to return this week. However, if Tampa Bay does not have someone ready to start at FB for their Week Seven game, it's possible RB Earnest Graham would be used in the position for the second straight week, which would greatly limit Graham's production against Seattle.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 11:18:07 2008-10-15 11:18:07

With the new deal, Williams' long-term fantasy value gets a huge boost. He is going to play this weekend against the Rams, but owners will want to temper their projections. He still has to learn a new offense. Jerry Jones was forced to sign Williams long term after trading away nearly his entire 2009 draft. Good luck to the Dallas coaching staff, they now have to keep two ball hogs happy.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 11:27:05 2008-10-15 11:27:05

It looks like Winslow will be alright to play this week. His owners will want to check that he puts in some practice. Cleveland heads to Washington this week.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 14:41:27 2008-10-15 14:41:27

Romo owners who were holding out hope that their stud QB would play this week in a very tasty matchup against the Rams should calm themselves. Brad Johnson will be under center. The Cowboys might start getting anxious if Johnson can't simply manage the offense. If Romo does play with the broken pinkie, he could risk further damage. On the bright side, the fact that Romo is throwing is a good sign that he might beat the four week diagnosis.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 15:26:19 2008-10-15 15:26:19

This removes the Colts' third string running back and shallows their depth in a time when it's really needed, considering Joseph Addai is doubtful for Sunday's game against Green Bay.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 16:11:24 2008-10-15 16:11:24

“He’s been good,” said Edwards. “Been throwing every day, stayed extra actually yesterday throwing to the receivers. Strong. Not sore. That’s good." So it sounds like Croyle's taking the snaps and might be ready to play, but he's got to be rusty. And what a monstrous defense he's going to face in his first game back from his injury. Just remember one thing: the Titans haven't played a game yet this season where they haven't had at least one interception.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 16:42:22 2008-10-15 16:42:22

Cook was with Tampa Bay from 2001 to 2005 and is now back after being cut by the Texans back in August. Expect him to do a lot of blocking and not to get a lot of touches.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-15 16:42:30 2008-10-15 16:42:30

Parker stepped in a hole in the practice field on Monday. Parker looked like a sure bet to play this week in a stellar matchup against a Bengals defense that yields 157 rushing yards per game. If Parker cannot play this week, Mewelde Moore will get the call and makes for a nice RB2 option.

SteveLoveless 2008-10-15 16:45:57 2008-10-15 16:45:57

You should keep an eye on Colston and see how he practices during the week. If he does play it won't take long for him to receive some throws from Drew Brees.

SteveLoveless 2008-10-15 16:49:48 2008-10-15 16:49:48

It appears that his knee has been an issue from time to time. Head Coach Sean Payton might keep Bush out of practice on Thursday or limit him. He is expected to play on Sunday, but it is something to keep an eye on.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 16:53:34 2008-10-15 16:53:34

This is a painful blow both to Addai owners and the Colts. What with Mike Hart being placed on injured reserve, rush to get Dominic Rhodes as he will get a huge boost in touches.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 17:25:22 2008-10-15 17:25:22

Edwards passed his baseline test on Tuesday and says he has no more headaches as a result of his concussion suffered in Week Five. He was putting up steady, albeit not stellar, numbers up until his injury and should step right back into that level of production.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 17:50:37 2008-10-15 17:50:37

The Redskins aren't making much news of it, so there's no reason to believe Portis won't suit up and rack up points for your fantasy team on Sunday, especially against Cleveland's weak rush defense.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-15 17:52:00 2008-10-15 17:52:00

Brad Johnson will have another veteran receiver to throw to. Williams should start at the WR2 position, with Patrick Crayton and Miles Austin fighting for the slot position. The amount of plays Williams will see is unknown, but he should receive a fair amount of looks. This will also open things up more for Terrell Owens who has been a weak fantasy option as of late. Defensively, the Cowboys get back their hard-hitting safety, who they have missed as of late. He should help the run defense if Steven Jackson finds his way into the backfield, and will hopefully fix what has been missing from Dallas' defensive side.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 20:35:19 2008-10-15 20:35:19

It's hard to speculate on Winslow's chances of being back in the game this Sunday without any information on what's happening to him. We do know, though, that he is Cleveland's best weapon, and the sooner he's in, the better the Browns will be.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-15 21:24:26 2008-10-15 21:24:26

The Bills will get John McCargo back if they keep him. He has not done much to help the Bills since they drafted him in the first round of 2006. For the Colts, they are still looking for run blockers to help on the defensive line. The Colts defense had a great day against the Ravens last week, but it is still too soon to say that they will perform like this every week. They still have a long way to go before they become a weekly fantasy option.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 22:17:28 2008-10-15 22:17:28

Carney wasn't around when Tynes said this and Coach Tom Coughlin had already given his news conference, so there was no one to elaborate on what Tynes said. It's been the speculation that Tynes would be moved in to the starting position, in spite of Carney's perfect record, so there's no reason to think this isn't what will happen. Just keep an eye open for official confirmation before making changes in your fantasy team.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-15 21:31:11 2008-10-15 21:31:11

Tony Romo is willing to start and risk his injury even further. However, it will be up to the coaches to decide that. Romo threw passes on the side today, but not during practice. If Romo plays, this will be big news, as he recently got a new weapon in Roy Williams

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-15 22:44:43 2008-10-15 22:44:43

The Patriots passing defense is in no way a pushover, but they are tied for second (most) for passing plays of 40 yards or more. Bill Belichick's defensive schemes usually try and nullify one aspect or player on an offense (see: Faulk, Marshall in Super Bowl XXXVI). It's unlikely he'll try and phase out Royal and instead is more likely to try and focus on either Brandon Marshall or pressuring Jay Cutler as much as possible. What this all means is that Eddie Royal could be primed for a big (royal, if you will) day, along the lines of the role that Wes Welker often plays in the Patriots offense. You know, when teams are more worried about the "University of Rand" alum, Randy Moss. Unless Royal's health takes a turn for the worse, I would start him with an unwavering confidence.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-15 22:50:32 2008-10-15 22:50:32

Shockey has been touch and go with practice after having undergone surgery for a sports hernia. Watch him to see how he performs at practice for the rest of the week to see if he can handle a heavier workload before you decide to start this talented tight end.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-16 08:24:38 2008-10-16 08:24:38

Fantasy owners will want to pay attention to this game to see what Alexander can do (or can't do) as a back up RB. If he breaks off a couple of nice runs, Clinton Portis owners may want to roster Alexander as insurance.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-16 08:30:05 2008-10-16 08:30:05

Orlovksy appears to have some leash now, for what's it worth. He did hit WR Calvin Johnson, now the undisputed top WR on the team with Roy Williams gone, for a TD and 85 yards last week, so maybe if he gets a good rapport going with Johnson he can be of some use to fantasy owners. For now though, leave him on the waiver wire.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-16 08:37:40 2008-10-16 08:37:40

Wallace is certainly not a proven QB, but he's better than Charlie Frye. Should Wallace play, the fantasy fortunes of Seattle's offense look brighter than they did last week with Frye as the signal caller, though you still would want to think twice before starting any Seahawks this week against a stingy Tampa Bay defense.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-16 09:44:23 2008-10-16 09:44:23

With Brandon Stokley out, we should see Eddie Royal added into the mix once again. After receiving an ankle injury in Week Five, he has fallen off the charts, he will likely receive looks this weekend as the Broncos WR2. They face New England, whose defensive backs have been torn up as of late. Look for big numbers from Royal and Brandon Marshall.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-16 09:52:29 2008-10-16 09:52:29

It doesn't look like Calvin Johnson will miss any time, however, with Dan Orlovsky officially named as the starter, his likelihood of being a top WR are out of the question. He still will be a good WR2 option in most fantasy leagues. After Roy Williams departed, no one else on the Lions roster has over 100 receiving yards. Johnson's looks should increase throughout the season, and will be a must play this week against the Texans.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-16 10:32:11 2008-10-16 10:32:11

The fact that Jones was using alcohol is a violation of his probation. The NFL required Jones check into rehab following the fight he was involved in, police on the scene of the fight determined he was drinking alcohol. Authorities in Georgia are not going to revoke his probation following the news.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-16 11:28:32 2008-10-16 11:28:32

Kitna is done with the Lions. Interim GM Martin Mayhew also said that the team will not reach an injury settlement with Kitna, in order to place him on waivers. He is under contract with the Lions for next season, but he clearly holds little trade value. The Lions will likely end up releasing him. Dan Orlovsky will be the Lions starting QB for the remainder of the season, barring a complete meltdown or injury. One has to wonder why the "future" at QB, Drew Stanton, isn't getting a long look right now.

BradRysz 2008-10-16 15:10:55 2008-10-16 15:10:55

Not much is known right now, except for the fact that Johnson will not play on Sunday. Either Kolby Smith or Jamaal Charles will start, but neither make good options against a terrific Tennessee defense.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-16 17:40:34 2008-10-16 17:40:34

Despite being named the starter, Smith is practically a mortal lock to split carries with rookie RB Jamaal Charles. With Charles having gotten the most of backup load so far this season, the decision to start Smith may have had something to do with the fumbling problems that Charles has had during his football career. Normally it may have been worth the risk to just start one of them and hope for a breakout game if you were desperate, however Smith and Charles find their opportunity to grasp that diamond ring blocked by a one Tennessee Titans defense. Barring several small miracles, it's unlikely that either will manage to eclipse 5-6 fantasy points each. Although if your in a deep league, either one may be worth a look on the waiver wire with all of Larry Johnson's troubles as of late.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-16 20:48:39 2008-10-16 20:48:39

All signs are pointing towards Portis playing against the Browns on Sunday, but how effective he'll be with his hip flexor injury is up for debate. The hip flexors main function is to pull the knee upward and is considered to be the most important muscle in the running process. Portis' style of running demands that his legs constantly move and pump him forward and it would be unwise to think that such a key muscle wouldn't hinder him in some way. If Portis is on your team and you need to start him, than paying extremely close attention to how he looks in practice on Saturday is highly recommended.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-16 20:52:34 2008-10-16 20:52:34

Cutting their depth at tight end is a pretty gutsy move to make with Shockey's status for Sunday still in question, so this might just be a little insight as to the coaches' intentions. Keep a close eye on Shockey leading up to Sunday.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-17 08:36:03 2008-10-17 08:36:03

Truth be told, Tynes missed some big field goals last season while 44-year old John Carney has been perfect on field goals this season. If fantasy owners wanted a piece of the Giants offense this week versus the 49ers, Carney appears to be the most appealing bet, though it all comes down to who Coughlin decides on starting.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-17 08:41:25 2008-10-17 08:41:25

Dallas does have a need at CB, so it is not out of the question that Law may saddle up with the Cowboys. Law is reportedly in discussions with Miami and also listed Green Bay as another good fit for his services. Should Dallas sign him, it would give a very slight boost to the fantasy value of the Cowboys defense, ditto for the Dolphins, Packers or any other team that acquires him.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 09:28:29 2008-10-17 09:28:29

Pace is expected to miss this week's game against the Cowboys. This is a huge loss for the Rams. Marc Bulger's blindside will be exposed now with Adam Goldberg possibly taking over for the injured Pace. Steven Jackson will find tough sledding as well.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 15:22:42 2008-10-17 15:22:42

The Cowboys seem intent on messing with fantasy owners, don't they? The fact that Romo missed practice today doesn't bode well for his chances of playing this week. Romo could still be active and available to come off the bench, if he doesn't get the start. As of right now, Romo's owners should be prepared to be without their stud QB.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 11:06:52 2008-10-17 11:06:52

Brad Johnson took the majority of the snaps with the first team. Romo didn't make any hand offs. Head Coach Wade Phillips has said that Romo has to practice in order to play this week against the Rams. Romo will likely be a game time decision, but expect Johnson to get the start. The Cowboys kickoff at 1:00, so Romo owners will have to luxury of taking a wait and see approach.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 13:51:05 2008-10-17 13:51:05

Parker missed Steelers practice today and is not going to play this week. Mewelde Moore will get the start on Sunday against a porous Bengals rush defense. Moore makes for a nice option as a RB2 or flex play this week. Parker owners in need of a replacement should rush to pick up Moore, if they haven't done so already.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 13:13:43 2008-10-17 13:13:43

Winslow looks like a great bet to play this week. Make sure to check back Sunday, but he should be penciled into all fantasy lineups.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-17 13:15:44 2008-10-17 13:15:44

Jones went on to say that it is more of a pain tolerance issue than anything else. Romo owners have to be ecstatic about the news. Still, make sure to check in on Sunday morning for the inactives.

BradRysz 2008-10-17 15:30:36 2008-10-17 15:30:36

Rice has a ways to go before he overtakes Bobby Wade as the Vikings No. 2 receiver. The return of Rice won't affect Bernard Berrian's value, as he is still a great option at this point. However, Rice and Wade may battle for catches, making each a risky play. Wait to see how the Vikings wide receiver situation shakes out before picking up Rice.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-17 20:18:26 2008-10-17 20:18:26

This was expected considering his injury and is just the next nail in the coffin for Addai's chances to play in Week Seven. Him not being able to play will give backup running back Dominic Rhodes many more chances to rack up points for fantasy players who were quick enough to pick him up off the waiver.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-17 20:27:30 2008-10-17 20:27:30

The Redskins are fully confident that Portis will play on Sunday, and he was most likely not at practice on Wednesday and Thursday so he could take it easy on his hip, rather than him being unable to practice. He practiced fully on Friday and didn't have any problems, so it's a good bet that he'll start on Sunday.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-17 20:36:55 2008-10-17 20:36:55

Coles has been playing through is thigh problem for weeks now. He is continuously on the injury report, but has played every week and is a huge weapon for Brett Favre. He should be playing this week against Oakland, but if you own him in your league, check up on him on Sunday just to be on the safe side.

SteveLoveless 2008-10-17 21:00:15 2008-10-17 21:00:15

Joey Galloway hasn't played since Week Two. If he does return against Seattle he could have a favorable matchup. Seattle ranks near the bottom for pass defense and he has always been one of Jeff Garcia's favorite targets.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-17 21:08:40 2008-10-17 21:08:40

Matt Hasselbeck (back) won't even be in Florida this Sunday, and Charlie Frye couldn't prove he deserved the starting role last week against Green Bay. If you need to replace Frye after you picked him up to replace Hasselbeck, make sure there are no better quarterbacks out there before you give Wallace a shot. Wallace has not started a game in two years and is just coming off a calf injury.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-17 21:26:17 2008-10-17 21:26:17

Parker has been off the field since he injured his knee in Week Three's game against the Eagles. It was just this Tuesday that Coach Tomlin was confident Parker would return in Week Seven as he was doing well at practice, but that doesn't look to be the case anymore. Keep checking up on his status, but he is most likely going to miss playing on Sunday to continue nursing his knee. Backup Mewelde Moore will see more action as a result of Parker's absence.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-17 22:08:40 2008-10-17 22:08:40

Just when the Patriots fans thought their situation couldn't get any worse, this goes and happens. Supposedly, if this type of infection gets bad then it can go downhill very, very, quickly. As in, Tom Brady would never be the same. Chalking that up as doom saying and setting it aside though, this news comes just as many fantasy owners have resigned to the fact that their season is over and have begun trading players like Brady to plan for the future. If that describes you, then you might want to hold off on more positive news on Brady if your planning on snagging him. Or if your trading him away, well, just hope that whoever your trading him to doesn't have the Internet.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-18 01:24:23 2008-10-18 01:24:23

Gage has proven to be a favorite target for Titans QB Kerry Collins so far this season, amassing 12 receptions for 176 yards and 1 TD in just three games. A Gage start was looking like a possibility at the beginning of this week and while his questionable tag ensures he still could play, the outlook definitely hasn't gotten any better. If there were ever a time for Gage to play on a Sunday after being listed questionable on the injury report, this week is it. As always, stay alert for any updates.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-18 22:18:40 2008-10-18 22:18:40

Unless your the most optimistic person on the planet, it's highly unlikely you were hoping Addai would play with a doubtful status that was coupled with a two to four week time-frame for his return. Dominic Rhodes looked very impressive last week against a stout Ravens rushing defense and wouldn't be a bad pickup this week against the Packers. If you can't get Rhodes than you better go find someone, because Addai is absolutely, 110%, not going to play.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-18 22:21:48 2008-10-18 22:21:48

We know for sure not to start Tony Romo, however, the question now is whether to start Brad Johnson or not. Marian Barber will get a healthy dose, but Johnson should find the end zone a couple times. This drops the value of Terrell Owens and Roy Williams, but Jason Witten should see his regular amount of looks. Johnson is a starter in deeper leagues, while Owens and possibly Williams can vouch for starting positions as they play the Rams this weekend.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 11:50:01 2008-10-19 11:50:01

Panthers center Ryan Kalil and tackle Jeff Otah are out for Sunday's game, so it's definitely not a good thing for running backs Jonathan Stewart and Deangelo Williams. However, the Saints are a slightly above average rushing defense unit (ranked 14th in the league) and Stewart and Williams definitely have the ability to each have a quasi-successful day. Unless you have someone better, go ahead and start either one in the interests of upside.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:11:22 2008-10-19 12:11:22

Each and every one is a solid option at their respective position, so if you have either one, than start them and start them with authority. Even with the Panthers passing defense turning out as one of the best in the league, the Saints passing offense is just on a whole other plane of existence.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:14:21 2008-10-19 12:14:21

Parker aggravated his injured knee at Wednesday's practice and didn't practice for the rest of the week. As expected, this is additional information showing that he will not be playing this week against the Bengals. Make sure you have Mewelde Moore as he is their next go-to running back.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:22:56 2008-10-19 12:22:56

Romo was openly voicing throughout the week that he wanted to play through his injury, but Johnson will be starting this week instead in a great match up. People looking to replace Romo should feel comfortable putting Johnson in his place.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:26:41 2008-10-19 12:26:41

The Chargers passing attack has been just fine with Chambers out, and Vincent Jackson has proven to be a very serviceable fill-in. What it all means is you need to start someone else at wide receiver, and anyone who is active is obviously a better bet than Chambers.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:31:45 2008-10-19 12:31:45

Benson hasn't put very impressive numbers in his last three games with the Bengals, but he also hasn't had many chances to rack up some points. Being starter might give him more chances to do well, but this match up might make it very difficult for him to do so.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:34:49 2008-10-19 12:34:49

J.P. Losman certainly didn't do a poor job filling in for Edwards, but your likely jumping up and down right now if you own either Edwards, Lee Evans, or Marshawn Lynch. Edwards' return effects the other two players immensely as well as anyone else you may have on the Bills offense. The Chargers passing defense is still atrocious so if your swaying between Edwards and another QB, definitely go with Edwards.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:39:56 2008-10-19 12:39:56

Now that it's safe to assume that Kyle Orton is the real deal, Chicago Bears wide receivers no longer need to be avoided like the plague. They obviously aren't the best options, but both Marty Booker and Rashied Davis would make worthy flex options if you've been gutted by bye weeks this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:40:08 2008-10-19 12:40:08

No surprise here. Make sure Parker is safely on your bench and move Mewelde Moore up accordingly. He should give you solid points this week.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:44:58 2008-10-19 12:44:58

Bernard Berrian has certainly came on strong as of late, averaging 120 receiving yards and 1 TD in his last two games. He would make a strong start on any fantasy roster. Sidney Rice on the other hand? Uh, not so much. Keep him benched.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:45:55 2008-10-19 12:45:55

Gage missed practice all week because of his knee and will miss playing this Sunday as well. As a result, wide receiver Brandon Jones will see more action because of it.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 12:53:28 2008-10-19 12:53:28

McCareins was limited at practice on Wednesday and he missed practice on Thursday. He was a game-time decision, and the decision is "out". Brandon Jones, Lavelle Hawkins and Chris Davis all move up in the Titan's wide receiver depth chart now that both Gage and McCareins are out.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 12:53:31 2008-10-19 12:53:31

This isn't huge news as Hackett wasn't really expected to play at any point this week. I certainly hope your fantasy teams hopes weren't hinging on Hackett playing today. If so, than I'm sorry. Pick a replacement, start him, and do it quick because the one o'clock games start in approximately five minutes.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 13:05:33 2008-10-19 13:05:33

Jones has been a somewhat effective backup to Marion Barber, but is out with a partially torn hamstring. Running back Tashard Choice will take Jone's place as Barber's backup.

HectorCastro 2008-10-19 13:18:38 2008-10-19 13:18:38

K John Carney will start for the Giants. Tynes had started speculation earlier this week by announcing he was going to be the starter this week. Apparently, Couglin had other plans.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 14:05:30 2008-10-19 14:05:30

How unfortunate. Croyle's first game back from his Week One shoulder injury and he sprains his knee in the first quarter. Damon Huard has taken over for the injured Croyle.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 15:05:38 2008-10-19 15:05:38

Green was limited in practice on Wednesday and practiced in full on Thursday. He'll play back up to Steve Slaton, so that will cut into the touches he gets and drop his value some.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 15:09:24 2008-10-19 15:09:24

No further details are available at the moment, however with Bush being such a key piece on so many fantasy teams, it would be wise to stay glued to your computer in anticipation of further updates.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 15:27:57 2008-10-19 15:27:57

This was expected and you need to make sure he's starting for you this week. He's been putting up great numbers all season.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 15:39:58 2008-10-19 15:39:58

Although Winslow is active, he likely won't be starting. Putting him in your starting lineup might be a gamble, but Winslow is a good enough player that it might be a gamble that pays off.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-19 15:49:02 2008-10-19 15:49:02

Jones was a huge sleeper during the pre-season but so far has failed to live up to expectations. Whether or not you needed to play him, you at least know now that such a thing is not an option. Look elsewhere, and likely for the rest of the season.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 08:27:19 2008-10-20 08:27:19

Tatupu did not return to the field. More information should be made available this week regarding his status for Sunday's game at San Francisco, but if Tatupu misses anytime it will be a huge blow to an already under-performing Seattle unit.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 15:49:48 2008-10-19 15:49:48

The Redskins were going easy on Portis throughout the week as he only practiced on Wednesday because of his hip, but they have cleared him to play this Sunday. Shaun Alexander and Rock Cartwright will share touches with Portis and lighten the load for him and his hip.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 16:04:16 2008-10-19 16:04:16

This was completely expected, seeing as Coles has played through his thigh injury for weeks. Enjoy Coles putting up solid points for your team.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 17:31:26 2008-10-19 17:31:26

This is not Croyle's year. Barely any fantasy players still owned him, and you need to jump on the bandwagon in dropping him. The Chiefs are likely going to start thinking about their future with a new franchise quarterback.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 19:08:21 2008-10-19 19:08:21

What a game Jackson had against Dallas, with 176 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns. This is why if his injury turns out to be severe, the blow dealt to his owners would be just as severe. This is definitely something to follow up on as the week progresses into Week Eight, starting with an MRI tomorrow morning.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 19:36:31 2008-10-19 19:36:31

Galloway practiced some this week and there was hope that he would be able to play against Seattle, but the game-time decision has been to keep him out yet another week. Antonio Bryant remains your next viable option while Galloway sits out this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-19 21:48:54 2008-10-19 21:48:54

Reports are early and we are not sure what injuries Hilliard might have sustained. More information on his status and condition should be forthcoming.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 08:34:55 2008-10-20 08:34:55

Washington's defense did just fine without Springs when they faced WR Braylon Edwards and company on Sunday. Springs is still a solid CB and would give the Redskins defensive unit a slight boost in fantasy value, though Washington is still a formidable defense to use in fantasy even with Springs sidelined.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-20 08:35:27 2008-10-20 08:35:27

Boy, that double helmet-to-helmet hit looked brutal. Hillard left the game with a concussion, but was conscious. Tests throughout the week should establish Hilliard's playability for next week's game at Kansas City, so watch what happens before you make any trades or drops.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 08:52:43 2008-10-20 08:52:43

A week after breaking out in a big way against the Giants, Edwards' dropped passes caused many a fantasy owner to roll their collective eyes. He's an elite talent, but given the shaky QB situation and Edwards' visible frustration on the field Sunday, it appears as if this will continue to be a long, difficult season for fantasy owners.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 09:00:18 2008-10-20 09:00:18

Could another suspension be looming for the Giants' WR? The Giants have shown that they do not tolerate actions like this from their players and with the WR depth the team has at its disposal, they could afford to bench or suspend Burress for his actions. Fantasy owners will obviously want to keep close tabs on what happens this week so check back to see how this story develops.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 09:07:36 2008-10-20 09:07:36

Not a good sign for Shockey owners when the star TE is wondering whether or not he is healthy enough to play. It might be a good idea for fantasy owners to keep Shockey on the bench until he looks healthy enough to contribute at a high level, particularly if you have some roster flexibility.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-20 13:52:18 2008-10-20 13:52:18

Boldin had wires placed in his lower jaw to fix his bite as well as eight plates in his face. He has been sidelined since Week Four, after a helmet-to-helmet by Eric Smith. Boldin's surgeon will remove the wires on Tuesday and if all goes well he could play in Week Eight against Carolina.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 09:14:09 2008-10-20 09:14:09

Despite being active for the game and being called the number two QB on hand, Romo decided he was a no-go for Sunday's game. That sheds some light on the severity of the injury as one would imagine he would have been open to playing against the Rams if he was actually healthy enough to be effective. Romo owners should have a QB ready for their fantasy rosters this week in case he cannot play again in Week Eight.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 09:21:17 2008-10-20 09:21:17

It is hard to imagine San Francisco changing QBs considering the fact that Jason Hill (a WR) and Jamie Martin (a 38-year old journeyman QB who has not thrown an NFL pass since 2006) are the next two players listed on the 49ers QB depth chart. Offensive coordinator Mike Martz is a fan of O'Sullivan's and it would be rather shocking if the team turned the QB gig over to someone else. Do not cut ties with O'Sullivan yet.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-20 10:18:19 2008-10-20 10:18:19

Bush will miss the Saints flight to London to have the knee examined in Alabama. If Bush were to have the knee surgically repaired it would put him out for three to six weeks. Bush inured his knee in the fist half of the Saints loss to Carolina, he finished with 55 yards on nine carries. Deuce McAllister and Pierre Thomas should be owned in all leagues at this point.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-20 10:31:50 2008-10-20 10:31:50

Winslow is obviously frustrated with the Browns, he said that he felt like a "piece of meat" when GM Phil Savage made no attempt to contact him in the hospital last week. "There's obviously a problem and we have to fix it," Winslow said. "Just look at the history around here. It's unfortunate, because it happens time and time again." This is the second time that Winslow has suffered from a staph infection. The Browns have also had seven known staph infections in the last four years. Winslow also stated that he wanted to ask the Browns to trade him at Tuesday's trade deadline. After the Browns loss to the Redskins, Winslow and Savage reportedly had a conversation outside of the Browns locker room that was described by witnesses as "heated".

NickCarmichael 2008-10-20 16:20:13 2008-10-20 16:20:13

Jackson had a monster game before leaving midway through the fourth quarter. "We think it's just a bruise," Jackson said after the game. "We're going to get some more tests, an MRI in the morning, just to make sure. But it's just a little tight. I'm able to walk, and I'm able to bend it. So that's a good sign." If Jackson were to miss Week Eight at New England that would leave Travis Minor as the lead back. Brian Leonard is out for the season and Antonio Pittman has missed three weeks in a row with a broken leg. Pittman did practice twice last week, but still might be a long shot to play next week. Jackson owners should be prepared for him to be labeled as questionable this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-20 17:41:42 2008-10-20 17:41:42

What a bust this guy has been for the past couple of years. RBs Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk and Lamont Jordan all get a fantasy boost, but New England is likely to continue to spread the ball in their running game.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-20 22:19:10 2008-10-20 22:19:10

Uh-oh's. If you have Reggie Bush on your fantasy squad, you might want to run, nay SPRINT, to your leagues waiver wire and check to see if either Deuce McAllister or Pierre Thomas are there. It's very likely at least one (Thomas more so) will be there, so pick up accordingly. Fast.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-20 22:25:10 2008-10-20 22:25:10

Keep an eye out for further updates, but a questionable return tag is often the best way for a team to say that it's serious without shouting it from a roof top. If there was ever a time to use one of the 14 waiver wire pick ups you've been hoarding greedily, this is it.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-21 09:47:26 2008-10-21 09:47:26

Jones' owners should hold onto him, he was on pace for 900 yards. Jerry Porter will likely get himself into the mix. David Garrard's value takes a slight hit.

HectorCastro 2008-10-20 22:37:38 2008-10-20 22:37:38

Assistant head coach Mike Singletary is expected to take over the 49ers (2-5), who got off to a 2-1 start this season before four consecutive losses.The 49ers were in a funk, so this firing may rally the troops and lead to an increased performance from the San Francisco offense.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-20 23:11:11 2008-10-20 23:11:11

Putting Cutler's intense and no-nonsense play aside, whether you should worry or not remains to be seen. If he's on your squad you'll want to monitor his status for the remainder of this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 09:47:57 2008-10-21 09:47:57

Williams was signed to help shore up the passing defense of Minnesota, which has been vulnerable as rookie S Tyrell Johnson has been picked on by opposing offenses. Williams will provide a nice boost for the team's passing defense when he returns as he and S Darren Sharper should form a solid duo.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-21 09:52:36 2008-10-21 09:52:36

"I turned funny," Bailey said. "Next thing you know I was hobbling." He went on to add that he has never had a groin injury before. The Broncos aren't a recommended fantasy play with Bailey in the lineup.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 09:55:00 2008-10-21 09:55:00

Great news for the Bears and fantasy owners rostering Chicago's defense. Vasher should help improve Chicago's pass defense as they have been somewhat suspect throught the air during his absence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 09:59:37 2008-10-21 09:59:37

At least there is no tear in the quad. Fantasy owners should feel confident in Jackson playing this week, though it may be wise to hedge your bets and pick up backup RB Travis Minor in case the injury gets worse.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 10:05:28 2008-10-21 10:05:28

With RB Warrick Dunn questionable for Sunday's game with a pinched nerve in his neck, the Buccaneers could sure use a quick return from Williams. Fantasy owners should take a flier on Williams. Between Dunn's neck and Earnest Graham's use as a FB, Williams could be a pleasant surprise this season, though RB Michael Bennett is still in the mix for carries as well.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-22 11:08:56 2008-10-22 11:08:56

If this is true, Jones looks like he would play this week against the Browns. The Florida Times-Union thinks that the NFL would have let Jones know before practice this week that his suspension has started. If Jones does in fact suit up this week, he has a strong matchup against a weak Browns secondary.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-22 08:24:11 2008-10-22 08:24:11

The team reportedly may not rush Harris back into the starting role as CB Tramon Williams has been excellent in his stead and Harris may have some rust in his first game back. Still, this helps steady an already impressive Green Bay secondary. Fantasy owners can expect teams to continue to run all day on the Packers.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 10:21:14 2008-10-21 10:21:14

Coach Jon Gruden loves what Bryant has done for this team during the season and he's sticking with him for now. Bryant has emerged as a nice WR option for fantasy leagues, especially for this next game as Tampa Bay faces a beleaguered Dallas secondary in Week Eight.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 10:26:53 2008-10-21 10:26:53

Holmgren did not sound too optimistic about Hasselbeck's odds of playing Sunday against San Francisco, which is never a good sign. If Hasselbeck cannot go on Sunday, either Seneca Wallace or Charlie Frye will start in his stead, though neither is much of a fantasy QB.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 10:31:22 2008-10-21 10:31:22

Campbell has emerged as a solid QB option for fantasy purposes and is in for a sweet matchup this week against the pitiful Detroit Lions. Certainly check back on his status, but as of now he should be relied upon to play in Week Eight.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-21 10:38:56 2008-10-21 10:38:56

Both Curtis and Westbrook have favorable match-ups this week against the Falcons and could post big numbers on Sunday. Consider both players strong starts.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-21 10:46:38 2008-10-21 10:46:38

Brodie Croyle's season ended last week, when he tore his MCL. Damon Huard came on in relief and then hurt his thumb. If Huard is unable to play, Tyler Thigpen would get the start. Chiefs Head Coach Herm Edwards has declined to comment on the situation, he did say that the team may try to sign a veteran QB down the road.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-21 21:50:59 2008-10-21 21:50:59

Despite having a very underachieving year thus far, Winslow was thought by many to become one of the biggest benefactors of the Browns offense finally getting into gear. Although he had a sub-par Week Seven against the Redskins, Winslow is still too talented to not be a threat to produce week in and week out. Winslow's replacement, Steve Heiden, did a decent job filling in during the teams Week Six upset over the Giants, catching five balls for 59 yards. If there aren't any other options on your league's waiver wire, Heiden is at least worth a look -- especially against a Jaguars pass defense that is ranked 23rd in the league. If you can sell low on Winslow though, now is as good a time as any.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-21 23:20:01 2008-10-21 23:20:01

Even though Brad Johnson is getting the start, he should not be in your starting lineup this week unless you are desperate. After having a 50 percent completion percentage and throwing three interceptions against the Rams last week, a tough Buccaneers defense does not bode well. Expect Marion Barber III to see more carries, as long as they do not get down big in the first quarter. Terrell Owens and Jason Witten are always starters no matter who the quarterback is. As for Roy Williams, he still does not deserve a starting spot until he proves what he can do on the Cowboys.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 19:04:48 2008-10-22 19:04:48

With Brody Croyle and Damon Huard both on injured reserve, the Chiefs needed to do something to add depth at quarterback. Gray won't be starting in Week Eight as that will be Tyler Thigpen's job, but Thigpen isn't expected to give any good reasons to let him stay as starter. Gray will need to learn the Chiefs' playbook and that won't make him an immediate grab, but if you have bench space and are absolutely desperate for a quarterback, pick him up. He might get the starting job as early as Week Nine.

BradRysz 2008-10-22 19:01:03 2008-10-22 19:01:03

There was much speculation that Romo would be healthy enough to play last week, but Romo never saw the field. Brad Johnson will continue to start, and although his skills are rapidly diminishing, he has plenty of options at his disposal. Johnson isn't an ideal replacement for Romo owners, but he is adequate.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-22 13:02:26 2008-10-22 13:02:26

The move is a precautionary one. Burress will be extra motivated this week as well, the Giants square off against his former team, the Steelers. Burress owners who like to play it safe can pick up Domenik Hixon.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-22 15:33:52 2008-10-22 15:33:52

Boldin has been medically cleared to practice but will likely be a game time decision on Sunday. Expect Boldin to be labeled as questionable for Week Eight.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-22 18:06:42 2008-10-22 18:06:42

Even though the Chiefs offense is horrendous as a whole, Larry Johnson has still managed to salvage his own stats from the wreck. He's racked up 417 yards and three TD's behind what is widely considered one of the worst offensive lines in football. Backups Kolby Smith and Jamaal Charles didn't do too much last week against the Titans, but then again, it was against the Titans. Things don't get much better this week against the stingy Jets run defense either, so if you're looking for a fill-in running back for Johnson this week than make sure you're looking for someone who doesn't make a living in Kansas City.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 19:28:19 2008-10-22 19:28:19

Jackson is working slowly to hit the field on Sunday, and things are looking pretty good. He's easing into training and is hopeful to play, but acknowledges that it will be a day-to-day thing and will likely be a game-time decision. Your attention on his status should be day-to-day, also.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 19:41:54 2008-10-22 19:41:54

Westbrook says he is frustrated and is determined to return, and being at practice on Wednesday is a good sign in favor of his return. If his ribs or ankle don't give him any problems throughout the week leading into Sunday's game against Atlanta, feel comfortable about putting him in your starting lineup again.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 19:58:40 2008-10-22 19:58:40

The Chiefs' quarterback core has taken a huge hit with Huard and starter Brodie Croyle both being injured in last Sunday's loss against Tennessee. Third stringer Tyler Thigpen will get the starting job, but will have to shift gears and play well if he's going to keep it from newly-signed quarterback Quinn Gray.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 20:13:32 2008-10-22 20:13:32

We most likely won't know until a day or two before Sunday whether Winslow's appeal goes through and he is allowed to play. Keep a backup tight end ready to go (Steve Heiden being a good option) should the appeal fail and Winslow is kept on the sidelines.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 20:32:26 2008-10-22 20:32:26

Parker was in limited practice on Wednesday and has a good chance of playing on Sunday. Keep an eye on Parker to see how he progresses in practice throughout the week before you start him in your league.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 20:45:11 2008-10-22 20:45:11

Walker is still taking care of an infection in his knee, though the Jaguars are hoping he can start practicing next week. Even if Walker was back this Sunday, he wouldn't be a top choice except for those in real need of a wide receiver.

HectorCastro 2008-10-22 20:49:09 2008-10-22 20:49:09

Keep an eye on Coles for his participation in practice this week. He is listed on the injury report but expect him to be good to go by kickoff.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 21:32:23 2008-10-22 21:32:23

This is not a sign that Tomlinson won't play, but rather the team's plan of not aggravating the running back's toe injury. He is still your go-to running back, save an unexpected setback. Follow his status leading up to the game and make sure he's on your starting lineup if everything goes smoothly.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-22 21:40:48 2008-10-22 21:40:48

Turner is taking Chambers' return on a day-to-day basis and his performance will be indicative of whether he can play on Sunday or not. Follow Chambers' progress throughout the week and hold on to Vincent Jackson, as he is seeing more action in Chambers' absence. If you don't have Jackson, get him. His fantasy value is sky high as long as Chambers is out.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-23 08:18:20 2008-10-23 08:18:20

Pace's return means improved protection for St. Louis QB Marc Bulger, which ultimately helps the fantasy prospects of WRs Donnie Avery and Torry Holt. The Patriots secondary has been vulnerable this season so Bulger and the Rams could score a couple of times through the air in Week Eight.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-23 08:26:57 2008-10-23 08:26:57

Hasselbeck and Branch have both missed the last two games and are question marks again this week. The Seahawks passing game has been abysmal all year and there is no reason to risk anything on either player until Seattle's aerial offense shows some signs of life.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-23 08:33:00 2008-10-23 08:33:00

Tampa Bay coach Jon Gruden indicated that Williams will need to build up stamina and strength before being thrown in the fire, so do not expect to see him at all this week or even in the following game. But the fact that Williams is back on the practice field and hungry to play bodes well for his chances of making a comeback at some point in 2008. If you can afford the roster space, it would not be a bad idea to add Williams as a speculative play.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-23 10:55:23 2008-10-23 10:55:23

Cutler, who has an injured index finger took part in practice and should be ready for Week Nine when the Broncos return from their bye to face the Dolphins. Originally Cutler was expected to miss some time, but the swelling has gone down in his finger. This is good news for Cutler owners as the Broncos schedule is filled with stellar matchups for the next six weeks. They play Miami, Cleveland, Atlanta, Oakland, New York Jets and Kansas City. That string of bad defenses should have Cutler and his owners licking their chops.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-23 12:28:17 2008-10-23 12:28:17

Burress is prone to missing a ton of practice and still playing on Sunday. His owners do however need to grab Domenik Hixon right now if they don't have a possible replacement on their roster. Expect Burress to be questionable this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-23 16:38:58 2008-10-23 16:38:58

This is surprising news to owners who were uncertain of Coles status. He was set up nicely to have a big game against a porous Chiefs secondary. Coles hasn't been officially ruled out, but a concussion usually keeps a player out at least one week. If Coles can't play, Brad Smith and Chansi Stuckey will see extended action, although neither should be started (even in three WR leagues) this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 18:16:54 2008-10-23 18:16:54

Brady was already out for the season, but if this isn't taken care of soon and properly it could delay his rehabilitation and could jeopardize his return for the start of next season.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 18:40:00 2008-10-23 18:40:00

Week Eight is probably going to be Curtis' first game of the season, but it might be prudent to give him one more week on your bench. He's a quality wide receiver, but he might need some warming up.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 18:45:45 2008-10-23 18:45:45

Westbrook has been working hard to get back on to the field, and with two no-problems practices under his belt it seems like he'll be just fine for Sunday. Look to start him this week so long as he is fine in Friday's practice.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 19:07:47 2008-10-23 19:07:47

Morris might miss Sunday's game against St. Louis, along with LaMont Jordan. This would cause backup BenJarvus Green-Ellis' fantasy value to skyrocket.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 19:22:30 2008-10-23 19:22:30

It's entirely possible that Jordan, along with Sammy Morris (knee), will not play on Sunday against St. Louis. If so, it's very important to stress BenJarvus Green-Ellis' increasing value for Week Eight.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 19:48:24 2008-10-23 19:48:24

Jackson seems to be very level-headed about playing this Sunday, debating whether he should sit out and not aggravate his injury. Jackson's status for Sunday will be a day-to-day thing, and maybe even a game-time decision. Follow up on this star running back just as often to see if he'll play.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 21:13:14 2008-10-23 21:13:14

McFadden and Raiders head coach Tom Cable both say it isn't a big deal. McFadden has been battling his toe problem for a few weeks now, but his toe isn't his only problem. So long as his toe keeps bothering him, and he's battling for touches with Justin Fargas and Michael Bush, his fantasy numbers will be less than his owners hoped for.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 21:25:22 2008-10-23 21:25:22

Branch has been out for the past couple of games and there's no reason to believe he'll play this Sunday against San Francisco. Bobby Engram and Koren Robinson will see more action while Branch is out, but it's still an ineffective Seneca Wallace throwing at them, so don't get your hopes too high.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 21:39:15 2008-10-23 21:39:15

For all team owners that picked up Dominic Rhodes in light of Addai's injury, expect him to get just as many touches this week. They might even lean on him more considering how strong the Titans' pass defense has been.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-23 22:01:03 2008-10-23 22:01:03

“He’s doing a lot in practice, which is good to see,” Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt said. “I think really it’s about where he is tomorrow after practice and when we travel to Carolina how he feels.” Listen to Wisenhunt. See if Boldin practices on Friday and follow the news on him on Saturday and early Sunday. Barring any problems at practice, it's likely that he will suit up.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-24 08:37:53 2008-10-24 08:37:53

This week, RB Earnest Graham is the safe play for fantasy owners as Dunn has not been a full participant in practice all week. After Sunday's game against Dallas, however, there will be a RB controversy brewing as Carnell Williams, Graham and Dunn will all be fighting for carries.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-24 11:19:20 2008-10-24 11:19:20

Holmes could be subject to a maximum four game suspension per the NFL substance abuse policy, if he is convicted. This will likely have to go through the court system, so Holmes could dodge a suspension this season, making him safe in yearly leagues.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-24 13:20:22 2008-10-24 13:20:22

Huge step for Burress if he plans to play this Sunday. He improved his chances of playing this week. He may still come down to a game time decision this week against the Steelers.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-24 13:23:31 2008-10-24 13:23:31

Jackson took part in most of the drills. Expect him to be listed as questionable for this weekend's tilt with the Patriots. Jackson looks like he'll suit up this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-24 14:41:35 2008-10-24 14:41:35

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he didn't want to deal with the distraction and opted to have Holmes sit out this game. Nate Washington receives an immediate rise in value, and has actually been a good option prior to this news. Start Washington as a strong WR3 play this week.

BradRysz 2008-10-24 17:00:02 2008-10-24 17:00:02

If Morris and Jordan can't go, BenJarvus Green-Ellis would likely see a majority of the carries. Green-Ellis rushed for 65 yards on 13 carries in Week Seven against the Chargers. The Rams run defense is ranked 30th in the NFL, giving up 161.5 yards per game, so Green-Ellis makes a solid RB2 this week. Kevin Faulk is likely to see some carries as well.

BradRysz 2008-10-24 17:03:12 2008-10-24 17:03:12

If Coles can play, he is an ideal WR2 against a horrendous Chiefs defense. As long as he is declared active, Coles is a strong start.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-25 02:59:51 2008-10-25 02:59:51

The Eagles have been careful not to overwork the often fragile Westbrook, and his Week Eight probable tag is good news for his owners. Not only is it a positive sign that he'll start, see significant carries, and get back on track in general, he's also going to be doing so against the Atlanta Falcons. In case you didn't know, the Falcons are ranked 20th in the league in rush defense. Even with the probable tag, keep a close watch on Westbrook up through Sunday morning, but everything is adding up towards you being able to start him with confidence.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-25 03:08:25 2008-10-25 03:08:25

Despite backup QB Seneca Wallace having an undesirable Week Seven performance against the Buccaneers, there are several things that need to be taken into account. One, Wallace was coming off his own injury in order to fill in for Hasselbeck. Two, it was his first start in nearly two years and like most players, he's going to need some time to get back up to game speed. If any other more favorable options are exhausted, Wallace is definitely worth considering as a starter this week. He should have an easier time against a 49ers pass defense that is ranked 18th in the league.

BradRysz 2008-10-25 16:11:21 2008-10-25 16:11:21

A disappointing season for Palmer owners now gets even worse. Palmer was considered by many to be a top quarterback option this season. Ryan Fitzpatrick will continue to start, although he shouldn't be an option in anything but two-quarterback leagues. Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh will continue to see inconsistent production.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 11:57:00 2008-10-26 11:57:00

This is good news for the Lions passing game, though the Redskins defense is still bound to give the Lions plenty of problems.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 11:59:17 2008-10-26 11:59:17

Benjarvus Green-Ellis and Kevin Faulk will split carries, Heath Evans might get into the mix as well. Fantasy wise, Faulk has the edge over Green-Ellis in PPR leagues.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 11:43:28 2008-10-26 11:43:28

Antonio Pittman will get the start with Travis Minor backing him up. Kenneth Darby will also get some touches. Jackson owners should have already been prepared for him to be out this week. If you need to pick up one of the Rams running backs, Pittman looks to be the one.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 11:52:15 2008-10-26 11:52:15

He isn't expected to start and will likely work as Tampa's third WR. He should only be used as a flex-option in deeper leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 12:02:37 2008-10-26 12:02:37

This meeting will likely play a big role in deciding what type of punishment, if any, will be handed down to LJ for his recent off-the-field troubles. Johnson owners need to follow this closely.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-26 12:06:25 2008-10-26 12:06:25

McFadden was a game time decision this week and his toe appears to be bothering him just a bit too much for him to be very effective. Justin Fargas is going to start in his place but that also means that RB Michael Bush will also get a significant amount of carries. Bush has 202 yards on 47 attempts and one touchdown so far this year, and would make a great, spot-start, emergency, flex play.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 12:06:47 2008-10-26 12:06:47

Coles had some risk of missing this week's game after suffering a concussion in Week Seven, but he's okay for fantasy owners to plug into their lineups.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 12:10:16 2008-10-26 12:10:16

Even though Smith is starting, Charles is the more attractive fantasy option of the two. Charles can catch the ball out of the backfield and has more upside than Smith, so if fantasy owners had to choose between the two, Charles would be the better bet.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-26 12:11:17 2008-10-26 12:11:17

Fantasy owners nationwide are jumping for joy at this moment, since it's been a long time coming for his much-anticipated return. There isn't much in-depth advice to give here. If you have Boldin, than you start him. It's as simple as that.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-26 12:17:18 2008-10-26 12:17:18

Tuman has done absolutely nothing so far this year, but then again, he also hasn't been given the chance. With the Cardinals vaunted passing attack being boosted with Anquan Boldin's return this week, not a lot of focus is going to be put on Jerame Tuman. It's up in the air, but if your hurting at TE, it definitely wouldn't be a bad thing to go ahead and take the risk of starting him. He certainly has a lot of upside!

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 12:17:19 2008-10-26 12:17:19

Dunn will likely play in a limited fashion this week. Owners should not rely on him as more than a flex play in deeper leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 12:17:34 2008-10-26 12:17:34

Cotchery's shoulder was an issue this week, but since he's playing, fantasy owners should feel pretty good about starting him for this matchup if they were planning on it.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-26 12:29:04 2008-10-26 12:29:04

The Ravens passing game hasn't exactly been lighting it up, but if your in a pinch, Mason and Clayton are worth considering as starters if only because they're playing against the Raiders. Willis McGahee is actually a sneaky-smart start this week, and could very well scamper for 100 yards and 1 TD when all is said and done. Unless you have better options, McGahee is a legit option as a flex or RB2/3.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 12:34:52 2008-10-26 12:34:52

Shockey had complained about soreness after the Saints Week Seven game. It appears he will play in full fashion this week after practicing on Thursday and Friday.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-26 12:46:09 2008-10-26 12:46:09

Chris Chambers is averaging one TD per game, but also only a little above two receptions per game. Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd both stepped up big in Chambers' absence. Do not expect much from Chambers in his first week back. Jackson still deserves a starting spot in lineups, while Chambers is a WR3/4 option.

JoshuaGalligan 2008-10-26 12:56:18 2008-10-26 12:56:18

Unless you are in a 20-team league, this likely doesn't really apply to you. In the unfortunate circumstance that you were anxiously awaiting this news though, I highly suggest you go and scour your leagues waiver wire for a more healthy, less-fragile, WR option.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 12:57:35 2008-10-26 12:57:35

QB Matt Ryan's protection will be worse this game and RB Michael Turner will also be affected by Baker's loss.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 13:00:25 2008-10-26 13:00:25

Philadelphia's offense will be as healthy as they have been all year. With Curtis, Westbrook, TE LJ Smith and WR DeSean Jackson all playing, QB Donovan McNabb is in for a huge week against Atlanta.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 14:03:35 2008-10-26 14:03:35

Witten exited the game after catching one ball for eight yards. He has been taken to the locker room for x-rays.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-26 15:00:16 2008-10-26 15:00:16

The Browns rescinded Winslow's one game suspension, but the TE is still inactive this week. Steve Heiden will get the start at TE this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 15:30:01 2008-10-26 15:30:01

Houshmandzadeh has not missed a game all season, so this isn't much of a surprise. If you were planning to start him, go ahead and play the Bengals wideout.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 15:34:35 2008-10-26 15:34:35

Wallace threw for just 73 yards last week and is not an advisable start whatsoever. The entire Seahawks offense will suffer as a result of this.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 15:36:57 2008-10-26 15:36:57

Robinson should not be looked at by anyone in fantasy leagues right now with QB Seneca Wallace calling plays.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 15:42:40 2008-10-26 15:42:40

The Seahawks are currently the third lowest ranked passing defense in the NFL. Morgan has the perfect opportunity here to build on his breakout effort from last week, so consider the rookie wideout an upside-filled WR option for Sunday.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 17:38:18 2008-10-26 17:38:18

The 49ers offense could be in for a big second half as Tatupu's loss hurts the Seahawks big time. Seattle will be having their fingers crossed that this is not a serious injury.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-26 17:58:56 2008-10-26 17:58:56

O'Sullivan has been prone to giving the ball away, throwing nine interceptions in his previous four games. O'Sullivan's starting time may be up in San Francisco but you'll have to check back to see if this demotion is a one-time thing or the signaling of the Shaun Hill era.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-27 08:35:54 2008-10-27 08:35:54

Singletary was fuming after the game, thinking that Davis had been a selfish player on Sunday. Just another chapter in what has been a disastrous season for Davis. After catching 52 passes last season, Davis has 16 receptions for just 196 yards in 2008 and has been used primarily for his blocking skills. He should be ignored in all fantasy formats.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-27 08:43:24 2008-10-27 08:43:24

Phillips is an important cog in the Bucs defense. He entered the game second in tackles on the team with 51. Should he miss time, S Sabby Piscitelli will see an increased role. The passing defense will not be totally lost without Phillips, but he was great against the run as well and opposing offenses may be able to break off a couple more big plays per game in Phillips' absence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-27 08:53:14 2008-10-27 08:53:14

This would be a huge blow to the Vikings and those of you who own their defensive unit in fantasy. Minnesota's defense has looked very vulnerable at times this season, giving up some big plays. Without their two tackles, they are a very mediocre defensive unit and would no longer remain a must-start.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-28 09:20:57 2008-10-28 09:20:57

Jackson is a major part of Atlanta's rush defense, which would be far more vulnerable if he was unable to play. Should Jackson be disciplined by the NFL, opposing RBs should have an easier time against the Falcons defense.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-27 11:18:25 2008-10-27 11:18:25

Taylor is frustrated with the healing process of his calf. He has been nowhere near himself this season, and has only registered one sack. That isn't near the production he and the Redskins were hoping for.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-27 12:48:39 2008-10-27 12:48:39

Portis tweaked his ankle and Moss tweaked his hamstring. Both should be fine to play this week, but will likely put in limited practice all week. The Redskins will face bit more of a test against a tough Steelers defense, especially Portis

NickCarmichael 2008-10-27 17:08:27 2008-10-27 17:08:27

This really straps the Chiefs at running back, especially if Larry Johnson is suspended this week. It leaves Kolby Smith and rookie free agent Dantrell Savage as the team's available running backs. Kolby Smith is now the running back to own in Kansas City. Expect the Chiefs to go hunting for some help at the position.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-28 09:24:27 2008-10-28 09:24:27

Both players have been banged up all season, so Washington's defense does not lose any fantasy value as a result of this news.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-28 09:31:49 2008-10-28 09:31:49

Phillips' prescence will be missed as he was great against the pass, but even more valuable versus the run. Tampa Bay's rush defense certainly takes a hit without Phillps taking the field.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-28 09:37:17 2008-10-28 09:37:17

The 49ers offense is a bit of a mystery right now. WR Josh Morgan barely played last week after breaking out in Week Seven, TE Vernon Davis has just 16 catches and RB Frank Gore is really the only guy you can trust in this offense. At least now you can part ways with QB J.T. O'Sullivan if you own him, but hold off on picking up Hill until we see how he performs in his first start.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-28 09:44:31 2008-10-28 09:44:31

Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt didn't directly say that Tim Hightower was going to replace James as the starting running back, but he did mention that he will play the players he feels give the team their best chance to win. James had averaged 20 carries in the Cardinals first three games, in their last two he has had nine and seven carries. This is music to the ears of Hightower's owners.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-28 13:08:00 2008-10-28 13:08:00

Witten wants to play through the injury and is aiming to play this week against the Giants. If Witten cannot play, Martellus Bennett and Tony Curtis would fill in for him. Witten and Brad Johnson are clearly not on the same page, as his numbers have dipped without Tony Romo throwing him the ball. His owners should explore other options in case Witten sits out this week.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-28 13:16:06 2008-10-28 13:16:06

Hasselbeck now has a leg problem caused by the bulging disk in his back. Hasselbeck failed a strength test, he was not able to walk on his heels. Seneca Wallace will likely get another start this week. For the time being, fantasy owners should try to avoid all things Seahawks.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-28 17:55:08 2008-10-28 17:55:08

Limas Sweed saw more receptions last Sunday while Holmes was deactivated for a marijuana offense, but three receptions wasn't anything to get excited about. Sweed will likely see little to no action when Holmes hits the field again. Be sure to put Holmes back in your starting lineup.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-29 08:48:51 2008-10-29 08:48:51

The rookie Baker is considered a building block for the future of the offensive line and his loss means less room for RB Michael Turner to run through and more porous protection for QB Matt Ryan. Give the Atlanta offense a slight downgrade with Baker's absence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-29 08:55:00 2008-10-29 08:55:00

Holmgren wants the team to have more fun on the field, likely because it's become painfully obvious that the Seahawks are not going anywhere this season. QB Seneca Wallace did have a decent game last week, but that was against the 49ers. In Week Nine, Seattle plays the Eagles defense, which will make it tough for the Seahawks to open things up on offense. Consider the Seattle offense a poor play in fantasy this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-29 09:00:51 2008-10-29 09:00:51

Culpepper "retired" earlier this season, but has since made himself available as a few times are weak at the position. At this point, it does not look like Culpepper will sign with any team as anything more than an insurance QB (if he even signs), so he does not warrant any fantasy consideration.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-29 09:05:20 2008-10-29 09:05:20

Moss is expected to play this week, but hamstring injuries can be an annoying hassle, for athletes and fantasy owners alike. Since Moss relies on his speed, any issues with his legs merits some concern. Keep him active in your lineups as he has enjoyed a great season thus far, but keep an eye on this injury.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-29 14:33:31 2008-10-29 14:33:31

Indianapolis is clearly in need of a win and officially in desperation mode, at 3-4. Both players are expected to practice today and if there aren't any setbacks during the week, both should be ready for Week Nine. The return of Addai will obviously boost the running game for the Colts, but Dominic Rhodes has done a fine job in his absence. Bob Sanders will help stiffen up a Colts run defense that ranks near the bottom of the league.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 16:24:26 2008-10-29 16:24:26

Cutler has been putting up great fantasy points this year and Cutler owners held their breaths in Week Seven when he hurt his index finger. The injury wasn't that substantial, though, and Cutler is confident that it's now a non-issue. Therefore, feel confident in starting him, seeing as he might get Brandon Stokley and Tony Scheffler back this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 16:44:15 2008-10-29 16:44:15

Jackson was inactive last week against the Patriots with a strained thigh muscle. There was much uncertainty about whether he was going to play leading up to the game, which is why you should watch very closely to see how Jackson does at practice this week. He's had a week to rest and train, though if he sits out again in Week Nine, Antonio Pittman will again see more touches.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 17:01:02 2008-10-29 17:01:02

Brown has missed the last couple games with his groin injury, but the Eagles aren't shallow when it comes to their wide receiver depth now with Kevin Curtis back. Brown's status for Week Nine will likely be a game-time decision.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 17:10:17 2008-10-29 17:10:17

Moss' hamstring injury seems light enough that it won't affect his ability to play on Monday. Sitting out on practice today seems like it was more of a recuperative measure. Follow his progress throughout the week and be prepared to start him on Monday night.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 17:22:56 2008-10-29 17:22:56

Hasselbeck's absence opens the door again for Wallace to prove his worth, but a strong Eagles' defense won't give him much of a chance.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 17:37:29 2008-10-29 17:37:29

It tells you something when the Seahawks' players with the most receiving yards are tight end John Carlson and fullback Leonard Weaver. The Seahawks are dead last in the league when it comes to passing yards. That being said, Koren Robinson and Bobby Engram will see more opportunities while Branch is out and seems less likely to return in future games.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 17:51:41 2008-10-29 17:51:41

Morris was not at practice, but LaMont Jordan was a limited participant in practice. If either Morris or Jordan are able to return for this Sunday's game against Indianapolis, there will be a considerable drop in the fantasy value for both BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Kevin Faulk.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 18:00:40 2008-10-29 18:00:40

There has been no word yet about his concussion, but Coles' being at practice today leads us to believe that he'll again just play through whatever ails him. As has been normal protocol with Coles, follow his progress through the week and leading into Sunday's game against Buffalo before making a final decision to start him.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 18:56:59 2008-10-29 18:56:59

There are no major updates concerning McGahee's knee, so it's important to follow his progress at practice on Thursday or Friday to make sure everything is alright. If it so happens that McGahee cannot play on Sunday against Cleveland, Ray Rice will see more action.

JulianDominguez 2008-10-29 19:17:43 2008-10-29 19:17:43

Witten is a top tight end, and any team losing him is taking a big hit. If he's not able to suit up this Sunday against the Giants because of his fractured rib, rookie Martellus Bennett will take his place.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-30 10:15:37 2008-10-30 10:15:37

It will still take a few more days to determine if Willie Parker will play this weekend or not. At this point, he does not want to aggravate the injury again as he did last week by stepping into a hole. If Parker does play, he will probably be limited, especially with the way Mewelde Moore has stepped in. It may be a few more weeks until you should consider using Parker as your RB1/2.

AdamZdroik 2008-10-30 10:27:29 2008-10-30 10:27:29

Joseph Addai, Bob Sanders and Kelvin Hayden all returned to practice Wednesday. However, this does not mean you have to drop Dominic Rhodes, yet. If Addai plays, both RBs should get some of the carries, which makes them both questionable starts. With Sanders and Hayden returning to the roster, both the Colts defensive running and passing game will get a boost. In deeper leagues, the defense could be considered a start in a big Sunday night game against the Patriots.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-31 09:21:10 2008-10-31 09:21:10

Backup RB Antonio Pittman performed well in Jackson's stead, gaining 83 yards on 18 carries and catching three passes for 22 yards, so St. Louis can afford to sit Jackson for another game if they need to. Jackson owners should be checking back right up until game-time to see what his status will be for Week Nine.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-30 10:31:00 2008-10-30 10:31:00

McFadden is expected to miss Week Nine with the injuries. This opens the door for both Justin Fargas and Michael Bush. Expect Fargas to get the majority of the carries, but Bush also has a chance to impress the coaching staff in an expanded role.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-30 11:07:32 2008-10-30 11:07:32

As of now, backup Jerame Tuman will assume starting duties unless Ben Patrick, who has been dealing with a knee injury of his own, returns. Even though the Cardinals have a good matchup versus St. Louis, Arizona TEs have yet to register a score all season, so there is no reason to bother with Tuman or Patrick this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-30 11:17:47 2008-10-30 11:17:47

Peterson had a big game against the Bears in Week Seven, when he gained 121 rushing yards and scored on a 54-yard rush. Fantasy owners were expecting a bit more from him considering his beastly 2007 season and the fact that he's been healthy in 2008. Peterson owners have to be happy with his attitude and the best is yet to come with the second-year RB.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-30 11:26:46 2008-10-30 11:26:46

Kasay has been perfect on 16 field FG attempts, with eight of them coming from 40 yards or beyond. In four of the last five years, he has had a FG percentage of over 85 percent. Fantasy owners should not necessarily rush to add him unless they need a K, but if your league deducts points for missed FGs, just know that Kasay has been pretty money when it comes to booting the ball through the uprights.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-10-30 11:36:32 2008-10-30 11:36:32

Hall was rather playful and not exactly "talking trash" about his former teammates, but it's clear to see that he wants to take it to Atlanta. Expect the Falcons pass offense, particularly with the loss of OT Sam Baker, to face some issues this week.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-31 13:17:57 2008-10-31 13:17:57

Witten's odds of playing this week are pretty low right now. Missing a Friday practice is never a good sign. Expect Witten to be a game time decision and likely miss this week's game against the Giants.

NickCarmichael 2008-10-31 13:22:13 2008-10-31 13:22:13

The Steelers are going to ease Parker back into the role. But, with the way that Mewelde Moore has performed in his absence, a timeshare is definitly not out of the question. With the return of Parker, both backs make a better flex play than RB2.

BradRysz 2008-10-31 16:06:19 2008-10-31 16:06:19

If Dunn can't play, Earnest Graham will get a majority of the carries with Michael Bennett spelling him at times. Graham becomes a superb play against a horrendous Chiefs defense. Bennett hasn't played much this season, so don't expect anything more than a few carries.

BradRysz 2008-10-31 16:09:32 2008-10-31 16:09:32

Playing Moss would be a risky move considering he plays on Monday night. Owners will be forced to stick him in the lineup and hope that he plays. At this point, it's probably smarter to play a sure thing.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-01 20:58:49 2008-11-01 20:58:49

Steven Jackson was listed as questionable on Friday. Coach Jim Haslett said he would be a game-time decision. This sounds like good news for Steven Jackson's owners, if he is able to play on Sunday

BradRysz 2008-11-02 09:32:39 2008-11-02 09:32:39

This is good news for Hightower owners who have been waiting for him to take the next step. Edgerrin James receives a downgrade, but is still expected to receive carries. Hightower makes a strong flex play this week while James should probably not be started in any format.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 09:36:56 2008-11-02 09:36:56

Culpepper is likely to be Dan Orlovsky's back up for the time being. This leaves Drew Stanton as the odd man out and places him as the third string quarterback for this season. Culpepper doesn't have any fantasy value at the moment.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 09:42:12 2008-11-02 09:42:12

This is becoming a lost season for Johnson who can't seem to shake his legal troubles. Johnson obviously can't be counted on, and his scheduled return for Week 11 is still questionable at best. Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith will continue to share carries while Johnson is out. Charles makes a better play with his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Neither Charles nor Smith are any more than a flex play this week.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 09:45:15 2008-11-02 09:45:15

Kevin Faulk is likely to make the most impact out of the backfield, but Green-Ellis seems to be the goal-line back for the Patriots at this point. Either can be played as a flex option this week. Heath Evans may also see a few carries, but shouldn't be played.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 11:44:12 2008-11-02 11:44:12

Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan has spoken very highly of Torain and this week is where we finally see some of what he can do. He hasn't played in a while, but he has practiced this week, so he's not going in wholly cold. If you've been holding on to him in your bench, this week might not be the best week to put him in. Remember, it's been mostly talk about his ability until now. See what he's made of first.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:08:54 2008-11-02 12:08:54

Stallworth was limited in practice throughout the week, though he won't see the field this week. Syndric Steptoe will start in his stead, so pick him up and start him if you need a quick replacement.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 11:57:54 2008-11-02 11:57:54

Johnson was a probable for Sunday's game after he was put on the injury report and was limited in practice during the week. It's expected that his foot shouldn't slow him down, but slowing down when you've already been slow this season leaves you still at "slow" if you start him.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:12:37 2008-11-02 12:12:37

Lloyd still hasn't recovered from his knee injury, so Devin Hester and Rashied Davis will continue to see more action.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 12:19:21 2008-11-02 12:19:21

Jones being out may help out fellow wide receiver Donald Driver. The Titans run defense is tough, so Aaron Rodgers should be passing plenty to Driver and Greg Jennings. Driver is a WR3 play this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:23:11 2008-11-02 12:23:11

Instead of practicing this week, McFadden spent his time getting around wearing a protective boot. Justin Fargas will see much more action this week because of it, and Michael Bush's fantasy value will also go up accordingly.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 12:25:21 2008-11-02 12:25:21

Reed's injury opens the door for Parrish and Hardy, although neither one should be started, even in three wide receiver leagues. Lee Evans may see some double coverage with Reed out, but is still a viable WR1.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 12:27:47 2008-11-02 12:27:47

Jackson claims he is healthy and ready to go. Insert him in your lineup with confidence. Antonio Pittman will not receive many carries unless Jackson has an in-game injury.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:30:44 2008-11-02 12:30:44

McGahee was in and out of practice this past week, but it looks like he's going to play through the pain. He might lose some touches to Le'Ron McClain and Ray Rice so he's not worked too hard.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 12:31:50 2008-11-02 12:31:50

Green's absence means rookie Steve Slaton will get even more carries. The Vikings boast an impressive run defense so Slaton will have to make an impact in the receiving game if he is to help fantasy teams. Slaton is a low-end RB2 this week.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 12:34:05 2008-11-02 12:34:05

With the Vikings tough run defense, Matt Schaub and the Texans should be passing a majority of the game. Walter is a favorite red zone target of Schaub and should be started as a WR3 this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:35:11 2008-11-02 12:35:11

Dunn did not practice all week, so him not playing this week was somewhat expected. Bennett will see much more action on the field while Dunn nurses his back off the field.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:49:49 2008-11-02 12:49:49

Williams hasn't put up any kind of desirable fantasy numbers, but if you need him this week, you're clear to start him.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:57:00 2008-11-02 12:57:00

Carney's kicking has been near perfect this season and the Giants are giving him the start this week because of it. Expect Carney to do well for your fantasy team this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 12:46:02 2008-11-02 12:46:02

Jones has been playing very well this year, so take advantage of him while he's still able to play.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 14:20:49 2008-11-02 14:20:49

While Lynch is not feeling well and being checked out, Fred Jackson is taking over for him.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 14:29:10 2008-11-02 14:29:10

Smith started in lieu of an inactive Larry Johnson, but now Jamaal Charles and Jackie Battle will see more touches with Smith being injured.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 14:49:42 2008-11-02 14:49:42

Orton was having a breakout season before the injury, but the severity of the injury is still unclear. Rex Grossman will start the second half as the Bears quarterback.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 14:51:08 2008-11-02 14:51:08

Sage Rosenfels will start the second half as the Texans quarterback.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 15:09:11 2008-11-02 15:09:11

Witten fractured a rib last week and is sticking with his intent on playing against the Giants. Just consider he does have a fractured rib and has Brad Johnson throwing him the football. Enthusiasm and tenacity can only take you so far sometimes, so start him with caution.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 15:00:36 2008-11-02 15:00:36

Scheffler has missed Denver's last two games and will miss this week's game, too. Daniel Graham will continue to benefit with more looks from Jay Cutler in Week Nine with Scheffler out.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 15:21:22 2008-11-02 15:21:22

Westbrook practiced fully throughout the week and was expected to play this week. Start him with confidence. Seattle makes for a great match up for Westbrook.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 15:27:08 2008-11-02 15:27:08

Brown is cleared to join DeSean Jackson and Kevin Curtis on the field for the first time since Week Five. Donovan McNabb will now have many targets to choose from, though Brown may need to warm up some.

BradRysz 2008-11-02 15:31:45 2008-11-02 15:31:45

Ryan Torain and Michael Pittman will likely split carries while Young is out.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 15:36:50 2008-11-02 15:36:50

While Smith is out, Brent Celek will start in his place. Not that great of a pick up, but at least he's a starter for this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-02 18:35:26 2008-11-02 18:35:26

Johnson has been a poor replacement for Tony Romo, with five interceptions and only two touchdowns in his last two-and-a-half games. Though it might not be any kind of improvement with Bollinger throwing an interception on his first pass off the bench. One word: Avoid.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-03 00:28:12 2008-11-03 00:28:12

Pittman is in the unfortunate situation of having a short recovery period before Denver's Week Ten game on Thursday. If he's unable to play, Andre Hall and Ryan Torain will see more action.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-03 08:33:41 2008-11-03 08:33:41

The fact that James is recognizing that his role in the running game is greatly diminished shows fantasy owners that the Tim Hightower-era is in full effect. James really has no fantasy value at this time and should only be rostered as a handcuff for Hightower owners.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-03 08:41:09 2008-11-03 08:41:09

Tough blow for Orton owners and, for that matter, anyone who owns RB Matt Forte or any Chicago receiver. Backup QB Rex Grossman had his opportunities in the past and has always found a way to cripple the offense. All Bears offensive players get a fantasy downgrade with Orton out as they will have a lot more trouble moving the ball downfield.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-03 09:37:58 2008-11-03 09:37:58

Schaub's knee buckled on two separate hits during the first half. During halftime the team doctors diagnosed it as a knee sprain. Schaub began warming up before the start of the third quarter, but looked stiff. The Texans turned to backup Sage Rosenfels in the second half. If Schaub is to miss any time it would be a huge blow to Texans passing game that just started to roll.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-03 12:15:08 2008-11-03 12:15:08

DeAngelo Hall, Justin Griffith, and Ashley Lelie who are all former teammates of Vick have offered to put part of their salary up for collateral, in order for the Raiders to take a chance on the troubled QB. Vick is hoping to be released from jail in July 2009, which is just in time for training camp. Before any of this, Vick needs to apply for reinstatement to the NFL, as he is currently suspended.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-03 16:42:45 2008-11-03 16:42:45

Orlovsky could miss a few weeks, according to Head Coach Rod Marinelli. This leaves the Lions with Culpepper, Drew Stanton and Drew Henson as the team's quarterbacks. If Culpepper does start, that should show how much confidence the team has in Stanton's abilities. As of right now, the Lions starting QB is only worth a roster spot in two-QB leagues.

BradRysz 2008-11-03 19:08:06 2008-11-03 19:08:06

Anderson has been a disappointment this season, failing to expand on his 2007 breakout season. Quinn's first start comes against the 27th rated Broncos secondary. Quinn has been waiting in the wings, so he is likely ready to get in there. He shouldn't be started until he proves he can perform at the NFL level, however.

BradRysz 2008-11-03 19:12:01 2008-11-03 19:12:01

Ryan Torain may be thrust into the starting role as he is the only healthy Broncos running back. The Broncos are likely to sign a back this week, but they have a short week as they play the Browns on Thursday night.

BradRysz 2008-11-03 19:20:51 2008-11-03 19:20:51

Moss will probably see a limited amount of snaps, but if you started him this week you can breath a little easier.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-03 19:44:45 2008-11-03 19:44:45

McGahee was cleared to play last Sunday against Cleveland, but was more of an emergency option and saw no action on the field. McClain in still in the depth mix, though his value is dropping as Rice is doing a great job in picking up for McGahee. Harbaugh not deciding on a particular game-to-game starter will make it harder to decide on whether you play your Ravens running back or not, so look very closely on how they all practice through the week and at who they'll be playing.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-03 20:04:46 2008-11-03 20:04:46

The Buccaneers running back core is riddled with injuries and Williams might be Tampa Bay's only option in Week Eleven. Williams might be asked to hit the field should Graham or Dunn be unable to, but they all have two weeks to heal and rest. Much can develop here, so keep your eyes on their progress through their Week Ten bye.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 08:25:22 2008-11-04 08:25:22

The Saints will not only be without Grant, but may also lose DE Will Smith to suspension for testing positive for a banned diuretic. New Orleans is very bare at the DE position and opposing offenses should have an even easier time moving the ball against the Saints.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 08:34:12 2008-11-04 08:34:12

As if Seattle's season couldn't get any worse, they now lose their team leader in sacks, potentially for the rest of the season if physicians find a torn labrum. Downgrade the Seahawks run defense and pass rush for however long Kerney is out and expect opposing teams to have more success moving the ball.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 08:55:03 2008-11-04 08:55:03

Coach Brad Childress indicated that if Allen can play through the pain, he would start. The Vikings, however, have a capable replacement at DE in Brian Robison, so their defensive unit would not lose too much fantasy value should Allen be sidelined. That being said, Allen is a sack machine capable of changing the momentum of a game, so his presence would be missed if he has to sit this one out.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 09:09:36 2008-11-04 09:09:36

QB Marc Bulger had already lost TE Randy McMichael earlier this year and now loses two more targets. This bumps the long-term value of Donnie Avery way up as he will certainly be a starter for the remainder of the season and should see even more passes going forward. Veteran Torry Holt also receives a boost in value with the receiving corps stretched thin.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 09:13:54 2008-11-04 09:13:54

Romo is expected to return for the team's next game in Week 11 anyway, so Bollinger is not worth considering for fantasy leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 09:20:13 2008-11-04 09:20:13

Reid attributed some of Celek's success last week (when he caught six passes for 131 yards) to his anonymity, as teams did not do a great job of covering the unknown Celek. There is truth to that, but due to Smith's fragility and lack of production, fantasy owners would be wise to keep tabs on the targets doled out Sunday against the Giants. If Celek has another productive outing, fantasy owners in need of TE help would be wise to add him as a speculative play.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 09:24:06 2008-11-04 09:24:06

Orton was expected to miss about a month before the MRI was done, so this just confirms what was already reported. Fantasy owners should still hold onto Orton since he was emerging as a reliable QB.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 09:36:32 2008-11-04 09:36:32

The Rams let Jackson participate in limited practice last week and took him at his word when he said he was ready to play in Week Nine. Yet, when it came time to play, Jackson did not feel comfortable running cutback plays and Haslett stated, "It kind of caught everybody off guard." Jackson is a very risky play this week as the Rams want to make sure he is healthy enough to carry the load on Sunday. However, St. Louis has a serious RB problem as backups Antonio Pittman (hamstring) and Travis Minor (concussion) may not play this week as well. That leaves Kenneth Darby, who was signed off Atlanta's practice squad just three weeks ago, as the only truly, healthy option left. The Jets have a solid rush defense, so rather than scramble to add a RB from the Rams, fantasy owners should avoid this situation altogether.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-04 12:02:20 2008-11-04 12:02:20

Roethlisberger had battled shoulder woes earlier in the year and was rather ineffective in the first half of Monday's game. Should he fail to make his next start, Leftwich has shown that he is capable of making plays and would be a smart pickup for Big Ben's owners. We'll have more on this story as it develops.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-04 12:34:12 2008-11-04 12:34:12

Rodgers had been sterling up until the Packers loss last week. Green Bay scored only once on eight trips into the Titans red zone. Expect him to right the ship next week, when the Packers square off against the Vikings. Rodgers can still be considered a QB1, start him as you normally would.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-04 13:08:47 2008-11-04 13:08:47

Head Coach Mike Tomlin has already stated that Miller will be doubtful for Week 10 against the Colts. Miller has been pretty disappointing so far this season, with only 241 yards and 21 receptions.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-05 08:21:17 2008-11-05 08:21:17

The 25-year old Gado has bounced between Green Bay, Houston and Miami in his three-year career. His signing reflects how hampered the Rams running game is due to injuries and Gado may play a significant role right away as Jackson, Pittman and Minor could all miss Sunday's game. For now, Gado remains waiver-wire fodder. If he manages to put in a good effort this week, however, he could be worth an add in deeper leagues.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-05 14:30:32 2008-11-05 14:30:32

Backup running backs Antonio Pittman (hamstring) and Travis Minor (concussion) were also not present for the practice. Kenneth Darby worked with the first-team and the newly acquired Samkon Gado backed him up. Rams coach Jim Haslett has said that Jackson will need to practice this week in order to have a shot at playing against the Jets this weekend.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-05 14:57:14 2008-11-05 14:57:14

This is a great sign for Romo owners as well as all the Cowboys offensive fantasy weapons. Romo has missed the Cowboys last three games with a broken pinkie. He practiced with a splint on his hand and was able to take snaps as well as make throws. Romo seems on his way to being able to play against the Redskins, once Dallas returns from their bye this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 16:36:02 2008-11-05 16:36:02

Orton playing on Sunday seems very unlikely as an MRI has ruled him out for several weeks. It can, however, mean he's determined and that he'll return earlier that expected if he can practice without setbacks and can heal quickly. Hold on to him as he's become a reliable quarterback, but don't expect him to play Week 10.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 16:45:59 2008-11-05 16:45:59

Culpepper is looking much like the starter for this Sunday's game against Jacksonville with Orlovsky injured and Drew Stanton lacking the team's confidence. Does it mean you should start Culpepper in your league? Considering the rust he has on him, probably not.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 17:10:46 2008-11-05 17:10:46

Scheffler has missed the last three games and the Broncos are really missing him being on the field. If Scheffler is to play in Week 10, he will have to have a problem-free week of practice and will likely be a game-time decision.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 17:36:10 2008-11-05 17:36:10

It sounds like the Saints are eager to get Bush back on the field, but it may be just that. Eagerness. Bush did not practice on Wednesday, and whether he practices during the rest of the week will be telling of his Week 10 status as we get closer to Sunday.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 17:50:04 2008-11-05 17:50:04

Hasselbeck has been sidelined for the past four games and his return is now in sight. He won't play this week against Miami, but should he have no problems through the next two weeks of practice, he should be hitting the field against the Cardinals.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 18:08:44 2008-11-05 18:08:44

This is a step in the right direction toward McFadden healing, though Justin Fargas is still ahead of him in the depth chart. If practice this week goes well and he's cleared to play on Sunday against Carolina, he'll still be running behind Fargas.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 18:25:55 2008-11-05 18:25:55

Lloyd was limited at practice last week and was ultimately inactive to play in Week Nine. Things look better for his Week 10 status as he's practicing more, so watch and see if he's able to keep it up on Thursday and Friday.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 18:56:25 2008-11-05 18:56:25

Witten played through his injury last Sunday, but didn't have any receptions. It looks as though the team is taking advantage of the Week 10 bye to heal their star tight end some. Follow up on Witten next week to see if he practices.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 19:05:21 2008-11-05 19:05:21

Hopes are getting higher as Shockey is putting in more practice time. He is probable for this Sunday's game at Atlanta and, should he get the go ahead to hit the field, consider that your go ahead to start him.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-05 19:12:41 2008-11-05 19:12:41

Branch is not likely to play in Week 10, but his return to the field could come in Week 11 along with Matt Hasselbeck. This makes Branch an interesting waiver pickup if you have the bench space.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-06 08:56:33 2008-11-06 08:56:33

The Cardinals have been getting burned through the air this season and Rodgers-Cromartie, though fast, has had some issues on coverage himself. Still, with the team playing QB Shaun Hill and the 49ers at home on Monday night, this may be a prosperous week to start the Cardinals defense in fantasy.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-06 09:11:14 2008-11-06 09:11:14

Hill's knee is still giving him problems and the Rams pass defense remains susceptible to the big play. Given the fact that they're playing the Jets this week, who have an aerial attack capable of reeling off huge plays, the St. Louis defense makes a terrible play this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-06 09:19:41 2008-11-06 09:19:41

Smith may lose some targets to backup TE Brent Celek on Sunday since Celek broke out in Week Nine with a huge performance in Smith's stead. Coach Andy Reid insists Smith will remain the guy at TE, but if he struggles and Celek steps in and plays well, we may very well see a position controversy in Philadelphia.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-06 09:23:21 2008-11-06 09:23:21

Romo's return immediately boosts the value of WRs Terrell Owens and Roy Williams. It even helps out RB Marion Barber as teams will have to respect the passing game of Dallas with Romo behind center. Expect the Cowboys offense to get back on track next week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-06 09:27:21 2008-11-06 09:27:21

For what it's worth, RB DeAngelo Williams expected Stewart to be on the field for Sunday's tilt against Oakland, stating, "It was a precautionary thing, I don't think he's hurt...I don't think he'll miss time." Still, fantasy owners will want to track Stewart's progress before inserting him into starting lineups. Should he miss Sunday's game, Williams would get a nice boost in fantasy value as the lone RB against an awful Raiders team.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-06 12:45:08 2008-11-06 12:45:08

Torain should get the majority of the work with Selvin Young backing him up, if he plays. He makes for a nice play against a Cleveland defense that is giving up nearly five YPC and gives up on average a touchdown per game. Shaun Rogers is questionable for the game tonight after missing Wednesday's practice, this would further help Torain's cause if he were to sit out.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-06 15:59:18 2008-11-06 15:59:18

Parker is now in danger of missing this week's game against the Colts. He will need to put in a practice tomorrow in order to have a shot at playing this week. Mewelde Moore would get the start in Parker's absence and should be owned in all leagues.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 18:58:11 2008-11-06 18:58:11

This is good news for Matt Hasselbeck owners. He has missed the past five weeks do to injuries. Although the schedule doesn't look to favorable with upcoming match-ups against some tough NFC teams.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 19:12:25 2008-11-06 19:12:25

It looks like it will be Kevin Faulk getting the majority of the work again for the Patriots. He could be sharing some time though with BenJarvis Green-Ellis.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 19:21:23 2008-11-06 19:21:23

Willis McGahee joins Le'Ron McClain and Ray Rice as limited participants at practice on Thursday. McGahee is coming off a game where he didn't play a snap. Ray Rice racked up a career high 159 yards against the Cleveland Browns last week. It looks like this is Ray Rice's job to lose.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 19:38:33 2008-11-06 19:38:33

Steven Jackson is still hobbled by his thigh injury. It all comes down to practice on Friday. If Steven Jackson can practice on Friday it appears that he may play on Sunday. Jackson owners need to look for a replacement on Sunday, because it doesn't look like he will be playing.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 19:45:33 2008-11-06 19:45:33

It appears that Reggie is looking towards next week against the Chiefs to come back. Deuce McAllister should get the load of carries against the Falcons this week.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-06 19:51:01 2008-11-06 19:51:01

Roethlisberger hasn't practiced all week, because of his shoulder injury. He is going to try to throw on Friday to get ready for the Colts. If Ben doesn't practice on Thursday it doesn't look good for him playing against the Colts.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-07 08:48:40 2008-11-07 08:48:40

The Redskins had no comment on the matter, so it is hard to say if Washington will be a potential landing spot for Hall. The Redskins already have a very good pass defense, allowing 191.4 yards per game and an average of just one passing TD per contest.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-07 08:59:49 2008-11-07 08:59:49

Since his 80-catch, 1,193 yard rookie season in 2004, Clayton has been a bust WR for fantasy purposes. He's always had the ability to be a good player and perhaps 2008 will mark something of a renaissance season for Clayton. He's not an advisable pick-up yet, but should he perform well in the Buccaneers next game in Week 11, he would be a worthy addition to fantasy rosters.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-07 09:05:22 2008-11-07 09:05:22

Coach Jim Haslett stated at the beginning of the week that Jackson would only play if he participated in a full practice this week and things are not looking good for the star RB in Week 10. It would be wise to avoid the Rams RB situation altogether on Sunday as the Jets possess a very good run defense and St. Louis' RBs are all banged up in some form or another.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-07 09:26:31 2008-11-07 09:26:31

Parker had missed the previous four games leading up to Monday Night Football. This will mark the fifth game he has missed this season. Parker is only expected to miss one week with the shoulder injury, but his owners have to be frustrated, Parker has been effective when he plays, but has proven to be very injury prone this season. Mewelde Moore will get the start in Parker's absence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-07 11:54:31 2008-11-07 11:54:31

Great news for Norwood owners as the versatile weapon has long deserved more involvement in the offense. This shouldn't affect RB Michael Turner's value too much as he is still the clear no. 1, though it could help QB Matt Ryan's numbers if Norwood is out on the field wreaking havoc and opening up the field for the passing game.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 18:51:59 2008-11-07 18:51:59

Jackson has been nursing a hamstring injury and was ineffective last week in limited action. With Antonio Pittman and Travis Minor dinged up as well, Darby is the last man standing for the Rams. Darby and the recently signed Samkon Gado will get the carries on Sunday. The Jets run defense has been excellent, meaning Darby does not make anything more than a flex play this week.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 18:54:26 2008-11-07 18:54:26

Orton injured his ankle in the second quarter of last weekend's game against the Lions and was replaced by Grossman. Grossman did run for a touchdown and throw for another, but also threw an interception. The Titans defense is tough, so Grossman should not be started.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 18:56:55 2008-11-07 18:56:55

The Raiders defense is the ideal opponent for any offense, so the Panthers will have grand plans for their running back duo. If Stewart is out, DeAngelo Williams is in line for RB1-type numbers. If Stewart can play, he has a good shot to produce solid RB2 numbers.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 19:00:26 2008-11-07 19:00:26

If Branch can play, it is likely that Koren Robinson will be less targeted. Branch hasn't produced, even when he has played, so don't expect anything more than WR3 numbers.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 19:03:53 2008-11-07 19:03:53

Wallace has thrown a touchdown in each of his three starts, but has yet to throw for over 222 yards. The Dolphins pass defense is average, so Wallace shouldn't be played in anything but two-quarterback formats.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 19:08:55 2008-11-07 19:08:55

Roethlisberger has taken a beating this season, and an injured shoulder kept him out the second half of last Monday night's game against the Redskins. Byron Leftwich replaced Roethlisberger and threw for 129 yards and a touchdown. The Colts pass defense is ranked 3rd in the NFL, so either Roethlisberger or Leftwich will have a tough task.

BradRysz 2008-11-07 19:11:44 2008-11-07 19:11:44

Moore rushed for three touchdowns in the three games that he started for Parker and averaged near 100 yards per game. The Colts run defense is 25th in the NFL, so Moore should be in line for a good game. Consider him a RB2 start this week.

BradRysz 2008-11-08 12:56:49 2008-11-08 12:56:49

Torain started out last Thursday's game with 68 yards and a touchdown before leaving in the second quarter with what turned out to be a torn ACL. The Broncos are down to Selvin Young and rookie Peyton Hillis at running back. Although still a bit banged up, Young has the most value going forward.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 11:25:01 2008-11-09 11:25:01

Originally, Parker was slated to return for Week 11, this injury could end up costing him more time. Mewelde Moore owners will want to hang onto him for the immediate future, Parker has shown a penchant for injury this season and Moore has proven he can handle the role.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 11:28:31 2008-11-09 11:28:31

Daunte Culpepper will make his debut as a Lion this week, against the Jaguars. Fantasy owners will not want to touch Culpepper until he possibly shows he can be a viable option.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 11:44:26 2008-11-09 11:44:26

Good news for the Titans D/ST. Bulluck is their leading tackler and will start his 106th consecutive game.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 11:46:03 2008-11-09 11:46:03

WRs James Hardy and Roscoe Parrish benefit the most with Reed's absence, though they remain nothing more than no. 3 or no. 4 WRs in fantasy this week.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 12:04:48 2008-11-09 12:04:48

Orton warmed up, but didn't feel comfortable enough to serve as the Bears backup QB. Rex Grossman will get the start this week. Brandon Lloyd, who was listed as probable will miss his fifth straight game. Rashied Davis will get the start in his absence.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 11:47:02 2008-11-09 11:47:02

If you're playing in an IDP league, Allen should be safe to put in. Both teams are going to fight extremely hard for today's win, and Minnesota is bringing out all its weapons to take said win.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 11:49:29 2008-11-09 11:49:29

Wilfork's absence should help the rushing game of Buffalo, so Bills RB Marshawn Lynch gets a slight boost in value for Sunday.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 11:59:10 2008-11-09 11:59:10

This means Pittman is going to get a lot of carries today. Samkon Gado might also get some work behind Pittman, too.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 12:08:27 2008-11-09 12:08:27

Vanden Bosch is the Titans best exterior pass rusher and is a big loss for the Titans defensive unit. David Ball is likely to get the start at DE this week for the Titans.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 12:09:22 2008-11-09 12:09:22

Coles has been playing well alongside Jerricho Cotchery and is a definite start this week as his matchup against the Rams is so favorable.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 12:10:05 2008-11-09 12:10:05

RBs Kevin Faulk and BenJarvus Green-Ellis will continue to split touches in the backfield. Faulk is the more attractive fantasy option, since he can catch the ball. Green-Ellis, though, will likely get the carries in goal-line situations.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 12:13:48 2008-11-09 12:13:48

Cotchery, along with Laveranues Coles, will be a great target for Brett Favre today against a poor Rams pass defense. Start Cotchery with confidence.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 12:15:12 2008-11-09 12:15:12

Missing Schobel and Whitner is going to hurt the Bills this week, particularly in their ground defense. As a result, Patriots RBs Kevin Faulk and BenJarvus Green-Ellis get an uptick in fantasy value. Faulk, especially, could be a major weapon on Sunday due to his versatility.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 12:20:02 2008-11-09 12:20:02

RB Deuce McAllister figures to benefit the most with Bush out and is a fine play this week against a Falcons defense that is surrendering 120.9 rushing yards per game and averaging over one rushing TD allowed per contest.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 12:21:32 2008-11-09 12:21:32

Nugent practiced some this week leading into today's game and there was a chance he would play against the Rams, but Nugent will sit out on Sunday to heal some more.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 12:27:25 2008-11-09 12:27:25

Rodgers starting was expected, and he's been playing very well, so continue to start him with confidence.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 12:47:26 2008-11-09 12:47:26

Ray Rice will see the majority of the carries along with LeRon McClain.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 12:50:30 2008-11-09 12:50:30

Green will backup Steve Slaton, who is the more intriguing play in the Houston backfield. But, with Green active, he will cut into Slaton's workload, making him a low-end RB2 this week in a tough matchup.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 13:01:33 2008-11-09 13:01:33

Robinson is starting for the Seahawks, but he shouldn't be starting for fantasy leagues with QB Seneca Wallace throwing to him. Avoid Robinson for Sunday.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-09 13:50:51 2008-11-09 13:50:51

Mason went high to catch a ball thrown by Joe Flacco and appeared to be in pain.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 14:58:59 2008-11-09 14:58:59

With Willie Parker suffering a torn labrum in last week's game against Pittsburgh, Moore's fantasy options skyrocket well into Week 10 and beyond. He should be in your starting lineup.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:01:48 2008-11-09 15:01:48

With Miller out, Matt Spaeth will see more action as he picks up the slack.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:07:49 2008-11-09 15:07:49

Bulger only put up 65 passing yards and gave up a fumble and an interception before being pulled. Considering his performance in this and previous games, this move couldn't have been a surprise.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:18:32 2008-11-09 15:18:32

McFadden's turf toes have been a persistent problem and they keep killing his ability to play. Justin Fargas will pick up the slack as he starts on Sunday and should be in your starting lineup.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:22:01 2008-11-09 15:22:01

Just because the Raiders are starting Walter, that doesn't mean you should start Walter. Stay away.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:25:51 2008-11-09 15:25:51

Stewart will be playing, but teammate DeAngelo Williams is starting on Sunday and might be a better option if you're able to choose between the two. However, both Stewart and Williams should have good games today.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:30:36 2008-11-09 15:30:36

Curry lost his starting position to Chaz Schilens a few weeks back for poor performance, and his use to the Raiders has dropped ever since.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:35:10 2008-11-09 15:35:10

Chambers had a bye week to heal up some and he seems to be doing well in practice. He should be safe to start this week and will likely give you decent points in this favorable matchup for the Chargers.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 15:57:23 2008-11-09 15:57:23

If you choose to start Roethlisberger, do so cautiously. They just might start backup Byron Leftwich.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-09 16:12:05 2008-11-09 16:12:05

Feel free to start Roethlisberger as well.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-09 16:30:08 2008-11-09 16:30:08

McKenzie suffered a right knee injury and did not return to the game. The Saints passing defense is terrible with or without McKenzie, so expect them to continue to struggle in 2008.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 08:34:48 2008-11-10 08:34:48

Torrence had actually performed well this season, but the team had a glut of CBs and cut ties with him. Hall's signing should boost the fantasy value of an already talented passing defense in Washington, but his impact may not be seen for a couple of weeks since he will have to get acclimated to the Redskins' system.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 08:44:43 2008-11-10 08:44:43

Weaver was not much of a fantasy option, outside of his explosive Week 8 performance, heading into this game, but his absence could affect the running game of Seattle going forward, should he miss any time. Wallace played through his injury, but with QB Matt Hasselbeck set to return in Week 11, Wallace is going back to a reserve role anyway. Ignore both Weaver and Wallace in fantasy.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 08:48:16 2008-11-10 08:48:16

This is a blow to an already terrible pass defense in New Orleans. The Saints will continue to be a defense to keep your eye on, simply because you'll want your WRs, TEs and QBs facing them for the remainder of the season.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 08:58:36 2008-11-10 08:58:36

Bulger turned the ball over twice in the first half, while Green threw a pick after halftime. Both QBs were under heavy pressure all day from the Jets defensive line. St. Louis has an easier matchup in Week 11 against San Francisco, so whoever is starting at QB for the Rams will be in line for a pretty productive fantasy outing. The smart money is on Bulger starting, but Haslett may want to shake things up.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 09:07:47 2008-11-10 09:07:47

Whether he sat on the sidelines because of an injury or ineffective play, this is disturbing news for Shockey owners. TE Billy Miller has been a solid option for the Saints all year, so it would be no surprise if the Saints decided to play him more as a result. Shockey has been a fragile and inconsistent headache this season, and while fantasy owners in deeper leagues should not flat-out drop him, he should not be in any starting lineups for at least the next week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-10 09:11:44 2008-11-10 09:11:44

Orton was originally supposed to miss about a month with the injury and it's only been a week since he suffered the high ankle sprain. Orton's fantasy owners should track his progress this week at practice, making sure that a backup plan is in place in the event that Orton's injury keeps him on the sidelines.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-10 10:27:43 2008-11-10 10:27:43

This is likely true, since Parker is a good bet to return to action next week. Mewelde Moore could have done more with his carries to cement himself a more solid role in the Steelers backfield, but under 3 yards-per-carry against a less than formidable Colts run defense isn't going to cut it. If Parker does return next week, expect him to get enough carries to warrant a start as a RB2.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-10 10:34:28 2008-11-10 10:34:28

Mason injured the shoulder on an incomplete pass, QB Joe Flacco threw a high pass that Mason went up to grab, he then came down and appeared to jam his elbow on the field. Mason went to the locker room, but returned in the third quarter, finishing the game with three catches for 41 yards. Mason will likely miss some practice this week and make his way to the Ravens injury report.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-10 10:44:42 2008-11-10 10:44:42

This is a devastating blow to the Patriots defense, Thomas is tied for the team lead in sacks with five and has been their best pass rusher other than Richard Seymour, who also has five sacks on the year. Pierre Woods should take over for Thomas, which is a huge downgrade at the position.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-10 18:08:01 2008-11-10 18:08:01

This will definitely help out the Bucs. With the injuries to Earnest Graham and Warrick Dunn, Cadillac could help them out. It will take some time for him to get a full work load.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-10 18:15:41 2008-11-10 18:15:41

Portis' owners may want to keep an eye on this situation. They may want to start looking for a backup if Portis can't go. What also makes it tough is that the Redskins play Sunday Night. If he isn't able to play you will have to pick up his replacement or a running back that plays on Monday Night

SteveLoveless 2008-11-10 18:22:11 2008-11-10 18:22:11

Warrick Dunn could get the majority of carries for the Bucs on Sunday. With the injury to Earnest Graham Dunn should be the featured back on Sunday. He has a tough matchup though, because the Bucs are facing the Vikings who are good at stopping the run.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:30:23 2008-11-11 08:30:23

It's been no secret that the Vikings pass defense has been suspect this season, so this injury just makes things worse. With their rush defense remaining a force, opposing teams may almost exclusively move the ball through the air. Tampa Bay and QB Jeff Garcia are up next for Minnesota, and while the Bucs are not the strongest passing team in the NFL, they could post big aerial numbers this week.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:40:25 2008-11-11 08:40:25

While Cribbs and Lewis feel that some teammates quit, QB Brady Quinn and G Eric Steinbach did not feel that way about the team's loss to Denver. It sounds like things are spiraling out of control in Cleveland. The Browns are going nowhere this season and fantasy owners have to think twice before starting any Cleveland players outside of Lewis or TE Kellen Winslow.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:46:19 2008-11-11 08:46:19

If you thought the Packers run defense was getting gashed before, just wait until they take the field without Barnett this week. Green Bay is a team you will want your RBs going against every week, so those of you who own Bears RB Matt Forte should be salivating at this matchup for Week 11.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:49:48 2008-11-11 08:49:48

Lloyd has missed five games and although he looked good earlier this year, fantasy owners should not even think about starting him until he gets back into a rhythm. This week's matchup against the Packers is a poor one as Green Bay's pass defense is among the best in the league, so continue to keep Lloyd benched, even if he does return.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:53:58 2008-11-11 08:53:58

If Branch and Hasselbeck return to the starting lineup for Seattle, it would be a huge boost to the Seahawks offense. WR Bobby Engram and TE John Carlson would see a nice rise in value, as would RB Julius Jones, who should have more room to work with since Seattle will have a more effective passing game.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 08:57:45 2008-11-11 08:57:45

Bulger had an awful performance Sunday, but it had a lot to do with the pressure the Jets were getting up front, so fantasy owners should not abandon all hope with him. Bulger should bounce back this week against a much worse San Francisco team.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 09:01:46 2008-11-11 09:01:46

It sounds like the Cowboys are playing it safe with Jones, which is smart. Unfortunately, fantasy owners may not get much out of Jones for the remainder of the year if Dallas continues to use kid gloves with him. Keep him reserved for now in leagues with 12 or more teams, but in shallower leagues, it is probably safe to cut ties with Jones if there are more attractive alternatives on the waiver wire.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-11 09:07:12 2008-11-11 09:07:12

Westbrook has long been an injury-risk RB for fantasy, but we have all seen that even a banged up Westbrook is still better than most of the league's RBs. Continue to play it week-by-week with Westbrook. His bad outing against New York came against a Giants team that came in to Philadelphia and executed a smart game plan. Do not expect more performances like that going forward.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-11 12:50:02 2008-11-11 12:50:02

The Denver backfield has been ravaged by injury and inconsistency. Bell was released by the Lions after they signed Rudi Johnson, then made headlines by swiping Johnson's duffel bag. The Broncos are in need of a running back and if Bell were to sign with the team, he would immediately be in the mix for some carries.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-11 19:58:31 2008-11-11 19:58:31

The Lions have a tough matchup against the Panthers this Sunday. You should be looking at other options for your quarterback position.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-11 20:13:37 2008-11-11 20:13:37

Tatum Bell could see some action on Sunday against the Falcons. It appears though that Peyton Hills will go into the game Sunday as the starter.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-12 11:51:20 2008-11-12 11:51:20

Williams has been out of football for 14 months, after suffering a torn patellar tendon. Some thought Williams would never touch the football field again. Expect Earnest Graham to remain the primary ball carrier. Williams will get into the mix for carries, in what could become a three-headed monster. He is a definite pickup in deeper leagues, but doesn't figure to make enough of an impact for shallow leagues.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-11 20:18:19 2008-11-11 20:18:19

It's not looking good for Sammy Morris' owners again for two reasons. The Patriots play on Thursday Night, so Morris only has tomorrow to get some reps in at practice. Also, it looks like if he does come back he will be splitting time with BenJarvus Green-Ellis

SteveLoveless 2008-11-11 20:23:03 2008-11-11 20:23:03

It's still not a definite that Willie Parker will play on Sunday, so you need to keep an eye on him. If he does come back he will probably be sharing carries with Mewelde Moore.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-12 08:24:58 2008-11-12 08:24:58

It's been a tumultuous season for Taylor, who went from starting WR in Week One, to the bench, to being released only to be re-signed to the practice squad. Fantasy owners shouldn't add Taylor to their teams as QB Matt Hasselbeck will be trying to shake off the rust in his first start back and WRs Deion Branch and Bobby Engram are ahead of Taylor on the depth chart.

JonWilliams 2008-11-12 12:33:07 2008-11-12 12:33:07

Marte is a good lefty reliever with closing potential but the Yankees have a solid closer of course in Mariano Rivera. Thus, in all but the deepest leagues, or those that count holds his fantasy value is zero.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-13 08:30:55 2008-11-13 08:30:55

Hilliard's absence opens up an opportunity for WR Michael Clayton, who the team wants more involved in the offense anyway. If you happen to roster Hilliard, it is okay to drop him as the uncertainty surrounding the situation is worrisome.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 17:52:11 2008-11-12 17:52:11

Roethlisberger getting some practice time gives you more insight into his week-to-week status with ample time, as opposed to the Steelers' last minute decision to start Roethlisberger in week 10.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:06:35 2008-11-12 18:06:35

This has been a worrisome couple days for Portis owners and will likely be so leading into Sunday, but this is a ray of hope. With an injury that usually sidelines players for a few weeks, a straightened leg is a great sign he's doing fairly better. Keep a close eye on how he does during the week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:14:38 2008-11-12 18:14:38

Culpepper was pulled from the field last Sunday against Jacksonville after throwing 5-of-10 for 104 yards and one interception. There's no way to tell how he'll perform this Sunday, so play it safe and avoid starting Culpepper if at all possible.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:24:45 2008-11-12 18:24:45

Orton is trying to get healthy, but it's way too early to tell if he's healed enough to play through his injury. Follow his progress at practice through the week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:33:42 2008-11-12 18:33:42

Mason might be a poor choice to start this week, considering he's banged up and would be facing the second-best pass defense in the league should he take the field.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:49:10 2008-11-12 18:49:10

Bush has not played since Week Seven and he is much better on the field than he is on the bench. There's a chance he could play in Sunday's game against the Chiefs, but he's going to have to prove himself in practice through the week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 18:59:36 2008-11-12 18:59:36

It seems as though the bye week gave Moss enough time to heal enough that he's likely to play in Sunday's game against Dallas. Barring any problems during practice this week, Moss should be a safe start in Week 11.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-12 19:06:58 2008-11-12 19:06:58

Jones hasn't played in a month since hurting his hamstring against Arizona. Nothing new here it as it looks like Tashard Choice will be backing up Marion Barber III.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 19:13:31 2008-11-12 19:13:31

McFadden has missed the last three games due to his nagging turf toe and whether he'll suit up against Miami on Sunday depends on how he practices during the week.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-12 19:16:29 2008-11-12 19:16:29

It appears that Williams finally feels comfortable with the Cowboys playbook. He has played three games with the Cowboys. He only has three catches for 38 yards and one touchdown. Look for him to get more involved with Tony Romo coming back.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-12 19:27:19 2008-11-12 19:27:19

Jackson still hasn't gone full speed yet at practice. You'll want to keep an eye on him Thursday and Friday to see if he can go 100 percent. If he can't it might be Antonio Pittman who will get the nod.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-12 19:39:46 2008-11-12 19:39:46

The last time Witten played through his rib injury, he didn't catch one pass. Again, that was with Brad Johnson throwing at him. If Witten is able to play on Sunday, he'll have Tony Romo back in the game with him. This is a big upside for Witten.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-12 19:49:12 2008-11-12 19:49:12

This will help the Seahawks a bunch with the return of these two. The Seahawks offense has struggled mightily with Hasselbeck being out.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-13 08:36:59 2008-11-13 08:36:59

Alexander is not someone fantasy owners should race to the waiver wire for. If Betts or Portis can play, Alexander will have a very limited role. Even if Alexander does start, he will be going against a Dallas run defense that is still good enough to stop the aging RB. Owners in 12-team or deeper leagues that are in desperate need of RB help are the only ones who should be considering Alexander.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-13 08:40:57 2008-11-13 08:40:57

An obvious move for Green Bay, as Hawk is a capable player, but this does not mean that the Packers are going to improve their dreadful run defense. Fantasy owners should still consider them among the worst rush defenses in the NFL.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-13 08:45:49 2008-11-13 08:45:49

Graham's fantasy stock has plummeted in recent weeks due to some shaky performances, playing time at FB, and the presence of Dunn and Williams. He's still worth holding onto, but Graham is not an advisable start for the foreseeable future.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-13 08:50:44 2008-11-13 08:50:44

Bush was wearing a heavy knee brace during Wednesday's limited practice, so he is definitely a risky start for Week 11. Bush's owners should have a solid backup plan ready in case Bush cannot play. They may even want to sit Bush if possible, since there is no guarantee that he will see a ton of action even if he does play.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-13 12:46:39 2008-11-13 12:46:39

Witten suffered a broken rib during Week Eight, he then missed Week Nine. Witten was limited in practice on Wednesday, so his owners should check in before game-time to make sure he is active.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-13 15:04:52 2008-11-13 15:04:52

Bush will likely be listed as questionable this week. Saints coach Sean Payton said that Bush's banged up knee held up during practice on Wednesday, so he is likely just getting a rest. Bush will probably come down to a game time decision this week against the Chiefs, if he's not ruled out before that.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-13 15:09:13 2008-11-13 15:09:13

This had to be expected at some point, the Redskins ran Portis ragged at the start of the year and this is the result. Portis missed practice Thursday and it looks inevitable that he will miss Sunday Night Football this week. Shaun Alexander and Ladell Betts (knee) would get the work if Portis were to miss the game.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-13 15:15:17 2008-11-13 15:15:17

Colston is dealing with a nagging knee injury and may be getting a rest after he had a busy game in Week 10. If Colston returns to a full practice Friday, he could dodge the questionable tag.

JonWilliams 2008-11-13 15:36:56 2008-11-13 15:36:56

This move does not guarantee that Gregg becomes the closer in the event that Wood moves on. Gregg enters the closer mix with Carlos Marmol. Meanwhile Matt Lindstrom becomes the favorite for saves in Florida.

JonWilliams 2008-11-13 15:54:49 2008-11-13 15:54:49

This move gives the Yankees an option at two of their positions of need - first base and center field. Until the rest of the Yankees moves sort themselves out the complete ramifications are unclear but on the surface Swisher joining the solid Yankees lineup should boost his stats.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 18:51:34 2008-11-13 18:51:34

Frank Gore has a fantastic matchup against the Rams. All indications are that he will start against the Rams and could have a monster day. The concussion could be a concern though further down the lines if he suffers another concussion.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 19:00:26 2008-11-13 19:00:26

It's looking like Steven Jackson is going to miss the game against the 49ers on Sunday. Steven will miss his third game in the past four weeks. Look for Antonio PIttman to get the start against the 49ers on Sunday.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 19:13:44 2008-11-13 19:13:44

Jones' owners will want to keep an eye on his status. Friday will be a better good indication if he is able to play or not. Also, you need to make sure that Jones isn't suspended for the game on Sunday

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 19:51:46 2008-11-13 19:51:46

Coach Dungy expects Reggie Wayne to play on Sunday despite missing the past two days of practice. If Wayne does play look for him to have another huge game against the Texans like he has in previous match-ups.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 20:02:17 2008-11-13 20:02:17

Same thing goes with Anthony Gonzalez, Caoch Tony Dungy expects Gonzalez to play on Sunday. If he doesn't practice on Friday though you might want to look at other options.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 20:10:20 2008-11-13 20:10:20

It's still unclear how much playing time he will see since he has been injured for the past three weeks. Also BenJarvus Green-Ellis is coming off a good week, so you might want to wait on Sammy Morris.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-13 20:18:57 2008-11-13 20:18:57

Just when you thought the Raiders offense couldn't get any worse it has. Walker has been a disappointment since signing a big contract in the off-season. He hasn't done much for fantasy owners.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-14 08:27:14 2008-11-14 08:27:14

Jones seems fine to start this week against Arizona. He may be a nice option for the remainder of the season if QB Matt Hasselbeck gets the aerial attack back on track to open up the field for the running game.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-14 08:30:41 2008-11-14 08:30:41

Samuel could have a field day against Cincinnati QB Ryan Fitzpatrick and the inept Bengals offense. Expect the entire Eagles defense to be a very productive fantasy unit in Week 11.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-14 08:38:17 2008-11-14 08:38:17

San Francisco coach Mike Singletary tried to downplay the concussion talk, stating, "He (Gore) does not have a concussion. He's good to go." It sounds like Gore will play and fantasy owners must start him against a weak Rams defense. Still, when you hear about a player having lingering headaches and nausea, it has to raise a red flag. Deploy Gore for now, but have a backup plan ready in case his condition is more serious than the team is letting on.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-14 17:55:33 2008-11-14 17:55:33

If you own Reggie Bush you'll have to hold off another week to start him. On the other hand it's great news for Deuce McAllister who will get the majority of carries.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-14 18:01:30 2008-11-14 18:01:30

Jackson is going to see a specialist to see why histhigh isn't getting better. Antonio Pittman will get the start against the 49ers.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-14 18:06:48 2008-11-14 18:06:48

Portis owners should look for a replacement for him. What make its tough is he plays Sunday Night, so you would need his backup or somebody who plays on Monday Night. To play it safe you might want to start somebody else.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-14 18:16:36 2008-11-14 18:16:36

Kyle Orton is going to face a tough matchup in his first game back. The Packers Defense keep the Vikings in check except for Adrian Peterson. On the plus side it looks like he'll have Brandon Lloyd back. Lloyd has missed the past five games with an injured knee.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-14 18:28:52 2008-11-14 18:28:52

It will be the duo of Graham and Dunn in the backfield for the Bucs again on Sunday. They are going to face a tough matchup against the Vikings. The Vikings are very good at stopping the run. Also, it looks like Cadillac Williams won't be active for the game. You need to keep him on the bench and wait for him.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 10:42:40 2008-11-16 10:42:40

Larry Johnson has not played since Week Five's game against Carolina, and this Sunday will be his return to the game. Thing is, he'll get too few carries for you to consider starting him for sure. He's a gamble play this week, but remember... he's coming off a suspension, not an injury. He could break out, and the Chiefs will be more than happy to double his workload.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 11:21:23 2008-11-16 11:21:23

Mason did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday. If he stays on the field for the whole game, Joe Flacco will throw to him more often than anyone else, but it will be tough doing so against a strong Giants' secondary.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 11:48:26 2008-11-16 11:48:26

Both Westbrook and Jackson could sport huge numbers this week against a poor Bengals defense, so make sure they are in your lineups.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 11:48:30 2008-11-16 11:48:30

Hillis hasn't played at that impressively, but he only has one game under his belt and Denver has no other options. He might break out, but when you can turn to Jay Cutler to throw the ball as an alternative, expect Hillis' carries to be safe and few.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 11:51:43 2008-11-16 11:51:43

Great news for Houston RB Steve Slaton as the Colts run defense is terrible without Sanders in the lineup. Consider Slaton a terrific RB option for Week 11.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 11:54:36 2008-11-16 11:54:36

Turner's hand injury was minor and he practiced fully during the week, so him talking the field this week is no surprise. Running against a poor Broncos run defense, Turner should be a definite start in all leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 11:56:08 2008-11-16 11:56:08

Wayne is a must-start, as always. Gonzalez could use a seat on your bench, however, as he has totaled just five catches, 64 yards and zero scores in three career games against Houston.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 11:59:51 2008-11-16 11:59:51

The Broncos are starting Peyton Hillis in lieu of Young being sidelined. Hillis could make for an interesting flex option, if only the Denver passing game wasn't so impressive of an alternative.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 12:05:03 2008-11-16 12:05:03

The Dolphins run game should be in for huge numbers this week versus the Raiders, who are allowing 158.1 rushing yards per week and have surrendered 13 ground scores. Oakland's pass defense, however, is allowing under 200 passing yards per game, so do not expect Pennington to have a monster outing this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 12:06:22 2008-11-16 12:06:22

McAllister has had his poor games and his good games. He should have a good game today though with a favorable matchup against the Chiefs.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 12:08:18 2008-11-16 12:08:18

Neither of these players are worth starting in fantasy this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 12:11:55 2008-11-16 12:11:55

Colston up against the Chiefs with Drew Brees throwing him the football? Expect Colston to rack up some big numbers for your league. Start accordingly.

BradRysz 2008-11-16 12:14:24 2008-11-16 12:14:24

Orton is a much better start than Rex Grossman and will make Devin Hester, Greg Olsen and Matt Forte better starts. The Packers bring a tough pass defense so Orton shouldn't be started this week.

BradRysz 2008-11-16 12:17:20 2008-11-16 12:17:20

Lloyd was beginning to breakout before a knee injury kept him out for five games. It should take some time for Lloyd and Kyle Orton to resume their chemistry, so monitor their progress before you start him.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-16 12:17:22 2008-11-16 12:17:22

This means Carolina's offensive line will be missing a key player, but it shouldn't matter too much this week versus a terrible Lions defense. All of the Panthers offensive options are strong plays for fantasy on Sunday.

BradRysz 2008-11-16 12:19:47 2008-11-16 12:19:47

Graham and Dunn are likely to split carries, and given Minnesota's tenacious run defense, neither make a strong play this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 12:22:03 2008-11-16 12:22:03

Carney has played nearly perfectly this season, but the Giants feel it's time to let Tynes take over because of his stronger leg and poorer weather conditions expected for Sunday.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 13:54:10 2008-11-16 13:54:10

Graham was to share carries with Warrick Dunn, though Dunn has now replaced him after his injury and will have an increased workload because of it.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:10:57 2008-11-16 15:10:57

Pittman can catch, so that would be of some benefit to owners who play in PPR leagues, but Pittman hasn't filled Jackson's shoes and should be looked over for a better running back.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:14:32 2008-11-16 15:14:32

Gore starting was expected. He is slated to make waste of this poor St. Louis run defense. Make sure you attend this party and start Gore.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:22:41 2008-11-16 15:22:41

Bryant Johnson, Isaac Bruce and Jason Hill will see more action this Sunday as they move up in the wide receiver depth chart.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:46:56 2008-11-16 15:46:56

Hasselbeck has been out since Week Five and is likely very rusty, though he does have an upside. Start Hasselbeck with caution.

BradRysz 2008-11-16 15:48:39 2008-11-16 15:48:39

Spaeth has a nice opportunity put up some decent yardage against a brutal Chargers secondary. Spaeth is a solid pass-catcher for a tight end and is a sleeper play against the Chargers.

AdamZdroik 2008-11-16 15:50:08 2008-11-16 15:50:08

Jerry Porter should receive a decent amount of looks today, but not enough against the Titans to be considered a WR1/2. In bigger leagues, a flex play is possible. With Fred Taylor being active, it will be interesting to see how the Jaguars use him this week as he received more carries than Maurice Jones-Drew last week. Taylor is a possible flex start, but MJD can be used as a RB2 with his nose for the end zone.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:52:32 2008-11-16 15:52:32

Branch returning is a big deal for the Seahawks, especially as it coincides with Matt Hasselbeck's return. There is a huge upside in this combo coming back to the field, but Branch has only three receptions this year. He needs to shake off a lot of dust.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-16 15:56:38 2008-11-16 15:56:38

Pope isn't considered that strong a fantasy option, though he does have a talented Kurt Warner throwing at him. This gives him an upside, but what's the upside on almost nothing?

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-17 09:34:18 2008-11-17 09:34:18

The Saints defense was pretty bad before this news, so you can't really downgrade them in fantasy. The fact is, teams will continue to beat up on their defense (especially via the air) for the remainder of the season.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-17 09:38:57 2008-11-17 09:38:57

Pace has been rather injury prone the past couple of years and each time he has missed games, the Rams offense has suffered. Expect opposing teams to swarm QB Marc Bulger now that his blind-side bodyguard is out of action and give Bulger and his receivers a slight downgrade in fantasy value.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-17 11:49:57 2008-11-17 11:49:57

Tampa Bay will be forced to go with Warrick Dunn as their starting running back. Cadillac Williams will get in the mix for carries as well, when he is ready to contribute. Gruden also didn't rule out B.J. Askew as a candidate for touches. This is a devestating blow to the Tampa backfield.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-17 17:42:14 2008-11-17 17:42:14

Jacobs sat out most of the second half, because of his injured knee. He did say if he needed to come back he could have played. If something shows up on the MRI, Derrick Ward and Ahmad Bradshaw would carry the load.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-18 10:40:04 2008-11-18 10:40:04

Jacobs knee is just sore and swollen and it seems like he would be a good bet to play this week against the Cardinals. Jacobs, who is in a contract year would like to play a full slate of games, to prove he is a capable number one running back. But, with the depth that the Giants have at the position, Jacobs could not be rushed into game action.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-17 19:01:40 2008-11-17 19:01:40

The good news is that Jackson owners will have a lot of time to pick up a replacement. Antonio Pittman will once again get the bulk of carries. Pittman could have trouble though against the Bears, because the Rams could be without two offensive linemen.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-18 08:19:25 2008-11-18 08:19:25

Bulger should be in for more trouble as LT Orlando Pace may miss up to a month and opposing defenses will attack the QB's blind-side with ferocity. Keep Bulger reserved right now as his prospects do not look good.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-18 08:24:14 2008-11-18 08:24:14

Romo's first game back with the splint yielded a TD, two interceptions and just 198 passing yards, so it didn't exactly cause his fantasy owners to jump for joy. However, the Cowboys play two horrid teams in the next two weeks at home as the 49ers and Seahawks come to Dallas. Because of the matchups, Romo is relatively safe to put back in your lineup.

JonWilliams 2008-11-18 13:33:44 2008-11-18 13:33:44

If you own Dempster in a keeper league you can now rest easy about him changing leagues. Now you just have to hope he can maintain the level he established in 2008.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-18 18:04:44 2008-11-18 18:04:44

Winslow has become one of Brady Quinn's favorite targets. It only took 11 weeks, but it finally looks like Winslow and the rest of the team are playing up to their potential.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-19 08:23:56 2008-11-19 08:23:56

Jennings' last healthy season came in 2006, when RB Frank Gore had his best year. San Francisco's offense overall does not lose too much fantasy value since Jennings has been out most of the season anyway.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-19 08:31:53 2008-11-19 08:31:53

No need to add Herron as Warrick Dunn is the RB you want in Tampa Bay with Graham out. Herron hasn't played since 2006, so it is tough to imagine him getting too involved in this offense with Carnell Williams serving as Dunn's backup.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-19 08:35:32 2008-11-19 08:35:32

Bell is not someone that fantasy owners should go chasing after. Remember, RBs Reggie Bush, Deuce McAllister and Pierre Thomas will all be involved ahead of Bell, so the odds of him making any kind of fantasy impact this season are slim-to-none.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-19 08:41:35 2008-11-19 08:41:35

It makes sense from the Giants' perspective. They are cruising in the NFC East right now and do not need to rush Jacobs back. Of course, fantasy owners will have to keep a close eye on his status leading up to game-time.

JonWilliams 2008-11-19 10:20:28 2008-11-19 10:20:28

This trade does two things for fantasy owners. It makes Coco Crisp a stud outfielder again. The Royals aren't acquiring players to sit on their bench. It also means that Ramirez will not be the new closer for Royals and Soria is probably staying in the bullpen.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-19 11:53:49 2008-11-19 11:53:49

Miller is not on the Steelers Week 12 injury report. He should play this week, but is a less than attractive option for fantasy purposes.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-19 16:12:01 2008-11-19 16:12:01

There haven't been any reports that Westbrook re-injured himself during Week 11, but the Eagles may be giving him a day off. His status for this week's game against Baltimore is up in the air. Correll Buckhalter would get the bulk of the carries if Westbrook were to miss this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 16:15:04 2008-11-19 16:15:04

"It's coming along," Portis said. "I'm sore, but I'm playing this week, no ifs, ands or buts about it." Follow up on his practice through the week to see if Portis keeps his word, but there's no reason to believe he won't play. He likely won't be in top health, but he should have a decent game against a poor Seattle run defense.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-19 16:18:10 2008-11-19 16:18:10

Jones reportedly looked good in practice and should be ready to contribute on special teams. It remains to be seen if he will cut into Marion Barber's workload this week.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 16:23:52 2008-11-19 16:23:52

Randle El is expected to practice before Sunday, and Redskins head coach Jim Zorn expects he'll play in Sunday's game against Seattle.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 16:31:43 2008-11-19 16:31:43

Hasselbeck threw one touchdown and three interceptions in last Sunday's game against the Cardinals. Maybe the dust he collected while on the bench got in his eyes, and he hasn't performed well enough yet to justify you moving him to your active roster.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 16:46:26 2008-11-19 16:46:26

This bodes well for Smith's return, but his performance should be put under a microscope as he practices. If he's unable to play in Week 12, Jerramy Stevens will continue to fill in for Smith.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 16:56:05 2008-11-19 16:56:05

Gonzalez suffered an ankle injury last Sunday against the Saints, and has also apparently injured his knee. Keep an eye on him throughout the week and, while likely not necessary, pick up a replacement tight end. Just in case.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 17:05:52 2008-11-19 17:05:52

White has played exceptionally well, and if his back keeps him out of playing in Week 12, the Falcons and fantasy owners alike will hurt. Follow news on White's condition and status throughout the week, though he is not expected to miss any games.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 17:21:47 2008-11-19 17:21:47

This just might be a repeat of Elam's practice routine leading up to Week 11, where he was two-for-two on field goals and two-for-two on extra points after barely practicing in the week leading up to the game. His status for Week 12 shouldn't be in jeopardy and he will likely play through his injury again.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 17:44:09 2008-11-19 17:44:09

Jones might get sidelined again in Week 12 because of a thigh injury, or maybe even a pending suspension, but practicing fully this Wednesday is a positive sign towards his suiting up this Sunday against the Vikings. If Jones is unable to play, Reggie Williams and Jerry Porter will benefit from his absence.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 17:51:15 2008-11-19 17:51:15

The Texans aren't too worried about his injury, and you shouldn't either as Slaton is still practicing. Follow up on his practices throughout the week, but expect Slaton to be ready to go for Week 12.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 18:01:24 2008-11-19 18:01:24

Mason aggravated his shoulder in last Sunday's game against the Giants and it's affecting his practice time, even though it didn't affect his game time in Week 11. Check on Mason regularly through the week leading into Sunday's game against Philadelphia for updates on his status.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 19:09:24 2008-11-19 19:09:24

As long as Battle is out, Jason Hill and Dominique Zeigler get more action.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-19 19:12:25 2008-11-19 19:12:25

Dominique Zeigler and Jason Hill will see more field time considering Arnaz Battle is also likely out with Morgan in Week 12.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-20 08:23:54 2008-11-20 08:23:54

Plenty of fantasy industry-types expected Seattle to yield one of the better defenses in football. But now, after losing one of their best players and struggling all season to maintain consistency, the Seattle defense can be considered nothing more than a staggering dissapointment.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-20 08:29:57 2008-11-20 08:29:57

James is nothing more than waiver-wire fodder right now and as time continues to pass, the odds of him signing elsewhere this season and making a fantasy impact are becoming smaller and smaller.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-20 08:35:12 2008-11-20 08:35:12

Fantasy owners in deeper leagues considering Williams as a possible start this week against a weak Lions defense should look elsewhere. RB Warrick Dunn, however, is in line to have a huge game in Week 12.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-20 08:40:01 2008-11-20 08:40:01

Sounds like this practice could be a major determining factor in whether or not Jacobs plays on Sunday. For what it's worth, he said he was ready to practice on Wednesday, but was held out for precautionary reasons. Check back to see how Jacobs' knee holds up.

NickCarmichael 2008-11-20 13:03:39 2008-11-20 13:03:39

Not that Ocho Cinco should have been in many lineups tonight, in what is a tough matchup. Expect T.J. Houshmandzadeh's targets to see an increase. Chris Henry will likely start in Ocho Cinco's place.

JonWilliams 2008-11-20 13:32:43 2008-11-20 13:32:43

It looks like Utley will miss the beginning of the 2009 season and may not be ready until June or July in the worst case scenario. We need to watch how this develops.

JonWilliams 2008-11-20 13:37:06 2008-11-20 13:37:06

Feliz should be ready at some point in Spring Training. However back injuries are notoriously unpredictable and owners should proceed with caution before acquiring Feliz.

JulianDominguez 2008-11-20 17:30:24 2008-11-20 17:30:24

After a strong outing in Week 10 against Denver, Quinn didn't perform as well in Week 11 against Buffalo. Now knowing that he had a broken finger for more than half the game, it might explain this dip in performance. Expect Quinn's performance to suffer this Sunday because of his finger, as well as Braylon Edwards' performance. You have good reason to bench either, or both.

BradRysz 2008-11-20 17:43:02 2008-11-20 17:43:02

Marion Barber III will continue to carry the load for the Cowboys, despite their difficult schedule down the stretch. Jones should be ready for next season, and those in keeper and dynasty leagues can expect a healthy Jones entering the 2009-10 season.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-20 18:31:05 2008-11-20 18:31:05

Peterson was sore after last week's game against Tampa Bay. Peterson is second in the league with carries. He will get the start Sunday against the Jaguars so there is nothing really to worry about.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-20 18:36:00 2008-11-20 18:36:00

The Giants are saying that the injury happen over night. Plaxico is listed as probable for the game Sunday against the Cardinals. Plaxico owners will find out more about his status for Sunday if he is able to practice on Friday.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-20 18:41:49 2008-11-20 18:41:49

Once again it looks like Portis is going to be a game-time decision. It looks like this could be a trend with Portis. Portis was a game-time decision last week and only had 68 yards rushing.

SteveLoveless 2008-11-20 18:47:45 2008-11-20 18:47:45

The good news for McAllister owners is that the Saints play on Monday, so he has an extra day of rest. The bad news is it look likes Reggie Bush will be coming back Monday Night against the Packers. Which means that McAllister won't be receiving as many touches.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-21 08:27:50 2008-11-21 08:27:50

If you play in a league that rewards special teams stats for individual players, Hester loses considerable value. If you are rostering him, it appears safe to cut ties with Hester as he is not doing enough in the passing game to warrant rostering.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-21 08:34:02 2008-11-21 08:34:02

Before the injury, it looked like Furrey would be getting more involved in the offense with Roy Williams traded to Dallas. There is no need to pick him up now, but keep an eye on Furrey. If he comes back and plays well on Sunday, he may be worth the add in deeper PPR leagues.

ChrisCarbonell 2008-11-21 08:38:14 2008-11-21 08:38:14

Nothing major here. White received treatment on his back Thursday and the team fully expects him to play in Week 12. Fantasy owners should not worry.