FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

July 13th, 2009 10:30pm PST


David's Daily Digest
[My Take]

More football news and happenings from around the league; here’s the latest I am hearing, reading, and following with my take on things and how they will impact the coming fantasy season……

My Take...

QB ALEX SMITH STILL IN THE MIX IN FRISCO
My Fantasy Read: The Niners head coach is putting a large vote of confidence in his 5th year quarterback, but it still remains to be seen if Alex Smith has enough to overtake Shaun Hill this summer. Smith played well during the OTAs, but he’ll have to show a lot more in training camp. He’s a long shot to win the job and won’t hold much fantasy value otherwise.

RB LEON WASHINGTON A POSSIBLE NO-SHOW?
My Fantasy Read: It’s sounding more and more like Washington could hold out this summer. With entire Jets backfield unhappy rookie running back Shonn Greene could slide to the forefront this summer. That could be a bit of a stretch but something worth watching, as the Jets will no doubt be a run first team this season with first year head coach Rex Ryan and a rookie quarterback.

WR DERRICK MASON RETIRES AFTER 12 SEASONS
My Fantasy Read: The Raven’s leading receiver the last two seasons announced his intent to retire this offseason and while nothing has been made official the imminent loss of Mason could be huge for the Ravens offense. Last season Mason proved to be rookie quarterback Joe Flacco’s security blanket, but with a lot of inexperience at the position his absence this season will be sorely and noticeably missed by fantasy owners.

RB FRED TAYLOR EXPECT TO START FOR PATRIOTS
My Fantasy Read: The Patriots appear to have a full house in there backfield and on paper it would seem to be a crap shoot to figure out exactly who will be relevant and who won’t. Early indications are Laurence Maroney could be odd man out, with Fred Taylor tabbed as the team’s starter. Even if Taylor starts, he’s likely to lose a lot of work to the team perennial versatile scat-back Kevin Faulk and significant fantasy value along the way.


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football to digest....

FSH: ON THE COVER

July 13th, 2009 11:00pm PST


This Week on the Cover….

Long Live the RBBC!!

The Dreaded Running-Back-By-Committee…
Definitely not a fan favorite of fantasy football, considering there are only a few places where there seems to be enough to go around. In Carolina and Tennessee last season, there seemed to be enough balls shared to benefit from drafting either of the teams number one or two running backs, but that is not likely to be true in too many other places especially in 2009.

With the RBBC becoming ever so popular to help preserve the health of the teams featured backs, a few places where this approach is likely to destroy fantasy teams and should be avoided include; New England, Arizona, New York (Jets), Baltimore, and Denver. In all these cities, there is every indication that these teams will employ the services of a rotating backfield making it very difficult for fantasy owners to gauge which play will serve them best from week-to-week.

While this philosophy will not be followed to the same extent in every city, a couple of places where this fantasy killer could show its’ ugly mug might include cities like; Dallas, Kansas City, Tampa Bay, Oakland, and Washington.

The Cowboys are loaded with talent (Marion Barber, Felix Jones, and Tasard Choice) and it just may be that difficult for Jason Garrett to keep some of it on his bench. The Redskins have seen Clinton Portis breakdown once too often, running back Ladell Betts could see a significant increase of touches in 2009. The Bucs, like the Cowboys are filled with talent (Earnest Graham, Derrick Ward, and Carnell Williams) and might struggle to keep all three horses fed. The Raiders are still another team that can boast loads of talent (Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden, and Michael Bush), but the inability to commit to any one back.

No matter how you slice it, the RBBC is not good for fantasy, but could be the wave of the future of the NFL with injuries playing such a big part. The big key for fantasy owners is to understand the style of offense where this philosophy thrives and where it may also rear its ugly head out of necessity.

If you play fantasy football beware the RBBC, but also do your homework!


Check back everyday for more football!

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

July 13th, 2009 9:37pm PST

Ground Game Alive Up North

The NFC North Bodes Well in 2009....
It really could be too early to many any assertions as to which division bodes the best backfields in the game today, but what the NFC North may lack in flash, it makes up with talent.

In the Windy City the Bears may just have one of the leagues most versatile backs in 2nd year running back Matt Forte. Last season as a rookie, Forte led all running backs with 63 receptions and finished with over 1,200-yards on the ground. He will be one of this season’s top running backs selected in fantasy drafts and will have even more value in PPR leagues.

The Packers have a very gifted runner in Ryan Grant who despite being slowed a bit last season with injury finished the year with over 1,200-yards. In his last 26 games played, Grant has rushed for 2,132-yards and scored 13 total touchdowns, including nine games with over 100-yards rushing.

The Lions most likely will be bringing up the rear of this division, but could very well be carrying some highly underrated talent. Running back Kevin Smith is not going to set any NFL records in 2009, but last season as a rookie Smith started the teams final eight games and rushed for 671-yards, while scoring four touchdowns. He also added 39 receptions in his rookie season. Not content with the rookie’s performance the team added running back Maurice Morris to add some competition in the back field.

While both Chicago and Green Bay can boast some serious talent in the backfield, the class of this division is undoubtedly the Viking’s own Adrian Peterson. In his first two seasons “All-Day” has rushed for over 3,000-yards, scored 22 rushing touchdowns, and averaged more than 5-yards a tote. Probably the more impressive statistic is only 24 games started, but hardly a concern for fantasy owners. Last season the Viking’s starter played in all 16 games and started 15.

Once again, many may argue this is not the best the leaugue has to offer, but what it lacks in showmanship it has in more than enough in “gets the job down.”

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle!"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

July 12th, 2009 7:37pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Here Comes Fantasy 2009

Six Months in the Making….
For some of us, it’s never too soon, but finally nearly six months in the making and it’s that time again. Fantasy Football 2009 is here and with many leagues drafts set to commence as early as over the next couple weeks, fantasy magazines are hitting the stands. Don’t forget to pick your copy up!

It didn’t take long for the diehard fan to trudge his way through the NFL offseason, with Free-agency, the NFL Draft, mini-camps, and plenty of player-signings. The past several months of the offseason seem like a blur, but if you have been following the happenings week-to-week, you have not lost site of what is important; Fantasy Football.

Now that the countdown has begun and we are only about two weeks away from training camps opening across the league, maybe it would be a good idea to do a quick review of what we know, what we should watch for, and what to avoid.

What We Know:
With training camps right upon the fantasy football legion, we know who are number ones will be heading into camp this season. Under center, following his blistering 5,000-yard passing escapade, the Saints quarterback Drew Brees will ring in as this season number one fantasy quarterback. Following his first NFL rushing title season, the Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is likely to top all boards as the number one running back taken in fantasy. In the desert following his awesome display throughout the playoffs, very few will even try to argue that the Cardinal’s wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is not number one. With no T.O. to get in the way, the Cowboy’s tight end Jason Witten should elevate this game in 2009 to hold up the preseason hype of being the best at his position.

What to Watch:
In Denver, if the Bronco’s can manage to hang onto their top receiver quarterback Kyle Orton could benefit greatly as a mid-level pick with tremendous upside. Despite all the loud talking, one receiver that should be paid attention to this preseason will be the Bengal’s own Chad OchoCinco. With Palmer healthy, Chad is a Pro-Bowler with plenty of upside, if he can keep it straight this season. Last postseason may have just been a small preview of his potential, but the Eagle’s tight end Brent Celek is going to be one worth watching.

What to Avoid:
This season there is going to be some tricky situations developing around the NFL that could raise some difficult choices for fantasy owners. The dreaded RBBC is back and in New England this could prove to be the death of a salesman or fantasy owner; too many backs to consider, none offering enough upside to invest. Cleveland, Detroit, Arizona and New York (Jets) could also be tricky places to find any consistency with one back. Another situation to avoid, stay away from the Dolphins, Buccaneers, Titans, Ravens, and Raiders receivers, mediocrity and inconsistency could plague the passing games here.

While these are only my musings and thoughts on the matter to date, fantasy football is finally here, so we’ll have plenty to discuss in the coming days and weeks!

By David Ortega

Check out more “Sunday Night Football Notes” every week!

FSH: THE ATL REPORT

July 11th, 2009 4:37pm PST


THE ATL REPORT

Around the League

WR Jabbar Gaffney likely first in line in Denver….
Nothing is a given, but with Marshall sidelined while recovering from offseason surgery Gaffney has been getting the majority of reps starting opposite Eddie Royal. While it looks like a long shot for the Broncos to trade Marshall (that’s what we thought about Cutler), if they did make the move Gaffney is the front-runner. As it stands he’ll likely compete for the slot position, but won’t be expected to make a lot of noise in fantasy this season.

RB Kevin Jones could see substantial time this season...
The Bear’s running back is coming back from ACL surgery and has looked very good. With 2nd year back Forte expected to carry much of the load, an impressive Jones could pick up some substantial time as the primary back-up. Jones will hardly be worth drafting, but if he’s healthy he’ll make an excellent handcuff for the Bears featured back Matt Forte.

Rookie receiver Hakeem Nicks has impressed…..
In New York the Giants top rookie prospect has heads turning. With the release of Plaxico Burress and the offseason departure of Amani toomer, the team will spend the offseason finding and tailoring its new set of starting wideouts. Hicks was drafted to come in and compete this season for playing time. Thus far he has yet to disappoint and it looks like he could make an immediate impact this season. He’ll be “One to watch” this fantasy season.

RB Shaun Alexander still hopeful to play in 2009…
The aging veteran running back is still hopeful he can find work this season, but after his short stint with the Redskins last season, it looks doubtful that fantasy owners will see the leagues former MVP suiting up in 2009. Last season Alexander now 32-yaers old, only saw 11 carries for 24 yards and played in just four games. Injuries always play a huge factor in things, but should injury strike any number of teams this season on the list of options Alexander is likely to be near the bottom.

RB Michael Turner could see fewer carries in 2009….
The Falcons surprise running back wonder in 2008 carried the rock 377 times for nearly 1,700-yards. While he won’t be expected to duplicate the 377 mark, he’ll easily top 300 carries this season and could easily eclipse 1,500 yards again. Last season the Falcons as a team toted the pigskin 560 times (ranked 2nd in the NFL). There is no reason to expect to see that number drop by much, so Turner owners should be able to count on another solid fantasy season.

Brown’s Josh Cribbs a likely holdout this summer….
The Browns special teamer isn’t likely to crack any starting fantasy lineups in 2009, but versatile back will have some influence on special teams for fantasy leagues that employ team defenses and special teams. Cribbs did have one return for a touchdown in 2008, but other than his special teams contribution he offers little or no value to fanasy owners.


Check back every week for more “Around the League”

FSH: FRIDAY FOOTBALL DIARY

July 10th, 2009 2:37pm PST

Friday Football Diary

Dear Diary

This year’s offseason has been anything but dull and so far I can’t see it getting quiet any time soon. With so much drama following the “Brett Favre” story in Minnesota and now the recent developments in Denver, my goodness this is a whole season before the season.

It seems I can never get enough football, so while I continue to watch the Favre saga eventually take us to his return to football to play for the Vikes, I will also eye carefully the Marshall development in Denver. Sure the kid is a talent, but his request for more money is just bad timing and I would have to believe the best move for Denver is to trade the all-pro receiver.

Not quite the start for the McDaniel’s regime, trading away it’s two best players, but if they can get a player (like Boldin) in return for Brandon Marshall, in the long term this move could make sense. Looking around the league, it’s really hard to see where the Broncos could deal, but stranger things have happened.

With all that is taking place, we are now about 12 weeks until kickoff and counting. Continuing my look at all the NFL teams around the league recognizing those players that figure to be relevant this season in fantasy football, this week I will feature the AFC East in my weekly spot-light “Fantasy Preview”

Fantasy Preview
(Offense only)

The AFC East

Buffalo Bills: Last season the Bills were short on fantasy players as their passing game disappeared into mediocrity. This offseason the team made a big move with the acquisition of Terrell Owens to catapult their passing game to the forefront, or least Bills fans hope. The move should pay some considerable dividends and resurrect some fantasy life to Orchard Park.
Quarterback-Now that Losman is gone, this will be Trent Edwards’ team. Equipped with a big time pass catcher in Owens, Edwards figures to enjoy his best season yet. He won’t be a pro-bowler, but could be a starter for fantasy owners in 12-14 team leagues.
Running Backs-With an improved passing game and a reduced suspension, the Bill’s running back Marshawn Lynch should rebound this season as a strong RB2 fantasy pick, following a disappointing 2008 campaign. Running back Fred Jackson is going to figure in the mix some especially PPR leagues, but otherwise may only be worth drafting as insurance for Lynch owners.
Wide Receivers-Now that T.O. is a Bill, the receiver that to most likely benefit is wideout Lee Evans. The former number one receiver will likely take the back seat to Owens, but could be a monster sleeper in 2009. Evans kind of fell of the map in 2008 finishing with just 63 catches (but he did reach 1,000-yards). James Hardy and Roscoe Parrish lack the consistency to make any kind of a difference in fantasy, but Josh Reed could worth consideration as a bye week filler.
Tight ends-The Bills did not retain the services of Robert Royal in the offseason, therefore lack any kind of pass receiving threat at the position. With Owens added, the bills strength will be their receivers. Fantasy owners are advised to stay away from any Bill’s tight end.

New England Patriots: Last season the leagues best passing attack in 2007 suffered a major hit with the loss of Brady. His return will mark the return of one of the leagues most awesome aerial assaults. Expect big things from a passing game that set league marks just two seasons ago.
Quarterback-The Patriots and fantasy owners will be happy to see a healthy Tom Brady back under center, as will his two favorite targets (Welker and Moss; aka Salt n Pepper). In 2007 Brady had a record setting season throwing to these two, and while coming off ACL surgery he’s not expected to set records, but owners can expect the leagues three-time MVP to perform as a QB1 fantasy starter.
Running Backs-The Patriots had their struggles in the backfield last season with early injuries to Laurence Maroney and Lamont Jordan, but with the acquisition of Fred Taylor and the return of Ben N’ Jerry’s own Jarvis-Ellis along with the dependable Sammy Morris, the Pats will have a host of backs to share the load. At 33 years of age, Taylor does figure to carry much of a load and with Maroney seeing some time on special teams this offseason, this backfield is quickly shaping into your prototypical RBBC situation. Only in the deepest of leagues will there be any real value here with only the versatile Kevin Faulk (PPR leagues) and Fred Taylor offering any kind of value in 2009.
Wide Receivers-In 2007 with Brady tossing the rock, the Patriots carried two of the leagues very best wideouts in the NFL and fantasy. With Brady back Randy Moss will once again be elevated in many fantasy leagues as one of the leagues top five pass catchers with Welker being strongly considered a top 10 (especially in PPR leagues). Beyond the two starters, the Patriots don’t offer much more for fantasy, although Joey Galloway’s arrival may resurrect a couple of highlight reels, but hardly much more. The former Eagle receiver Greg Lewis, only in his seventh year, brings his afterburners to help spread the field. He could be good for the occasional big game here and there and offers more upside than the aging Galloway as an insurance WR4 for fantasy rosters.
Tight ends-Since McDaniels took over in New England, the tight end had become a forgotten position only averaging 38 receptions each of the last two seasons. Back in 2006 Ben Watson recorded 49 catches, with new play-calling the Pats could once again utilize the talents of Watson. The team seems to be loaded with options, but Watson is likely the safest bet to be productive in 2009.

Miami Dolphins: The 2009 version of the Dolphins are not going to catch anyone by surprise this season. After an impressive 2008 campaign that saw the team unveil its’ diverse play-calling with the “Wildcat” formation, many teams and in particular those within the division should be better prepared.
Quarterback-One of the team’s biggest keys in 2008 was the leadership play of quarterback Chad Pennington. The Dolphins starter is hardly worth a mention as a starter in fantasy, but his consistent and rock solid play will make him a solid QB2 backup in most leagues.
Running Backs-Last season was a bit of a guess as to which back would be the primary go to throughout the season, but as the year wore on it became clear that Ronnie Brown (916 rushing yards, 10 touchdowns) is the team’s number one. Back in 2007 Ronnie Brown was on his way to a monster season before tearing his ACL. Now nearly two years removed from the injury and with an aging Ricky Williams sharing time, 2009 could be a big season for Brown. He’s likely to fall to a mid-level pick, but he’s a solid grab as a RB1 in most leagues.
Wide Receivers-With Pennington under center lacking the big arm, this becomes a weak area for the Dolphin’s offense as well as for fantasy owners. Last season wide receiver Tedd Ginn Jr was expected to rise above the rest, but fell miserably short for fantasy owners. Greg Camarillo is a nice Welker-type, but the fish hardly throw the ball enough for him to have any substantial value. Likely Davone Bess and Ginn Jr will emerge as one and two for the Phins, but neither will be a legitimate starter for fantasy in 2009, simply because Miami does not throw the ball.
Tight ends-Last season Anthony Fasano emerged as a decent fantasy play early in the season, but his middle of year was filled with much inconsistency and disappointment. With four touchdowns in his last four games, Fasono is likely to be the favorite for fantasy over David Martin, but he’s going to be a low end option in 2009 as is any Dolphin tight end.

New York Jets: The Jets pulled out all the stops last year when they brought in former Packer quarterback Brett Favre and for much of last season the move seemed to have pay dividends. That was until the final five weeks, when the team and offense hit a wall. Eight times in the team’s first 11 games the offense posted at least 26 points. In their last five they top 18 just once.
Quarterback-2009 is going to look like a whole new picture for the Jets. With Favre gone, the team made some aggressive moves during this past offseason’s NFL draft by moving up the board to select Mark Sanchez. The former Trojan only enjoyed one full season of success as the starter at SC and he’ll be a big question mark looking toward the 2009 season. Sanchez posses the tools and some of the intangibles to play at the next level and while it is likely he’ll start for New York this fall, he’s a very risky play in any fantasy league. He’ll have more value in keeper leagues as stock for the future.
Running Backs-With a rookie quarterback and new head coach Rex Ryan who loves smash mouth football, the running game is going to be essential to the team’s 2009 success. With an unhappy Thomas Jones, the team could lean on the younger legs of Leon Washington and newly signed rookie Shonn Greene. With Thomas looking more like the odd-man out right now, it would seem Greene has the inside track to start this fall, but don’t expect that to hinder Washington’s production. Until we hit training camp, this backfield would be better treated as another RBBC for fantasy owners interested.
Wide Receivers-If the Jets rookie quarterback can sustain any level of success this season, with the departure of Laveranues Coles to Cincinnati Jerricho Cotchery could enjoy a significant level of success this season. Brad Smith, David Clowney, and Chansi Stuckey will battle for the 2nd and 3rd receiver, but with Sanchez under center not much will be expected from any of these receivers. Cotchery will offer the best value, but more like a low end WR3 in most fantasy leagues.
Tight ends-With the departure of Chris Baker departed to New England, this paves the way for 2nd year tight end Dustin Keller. Although Keller enjoyed first year success with Brett Favre who is no longer in New York, the Jets tight end figures to be a focal point in 2009 under Ryan’s more conservative offensive approach. With a young quarterback the tight end is most likely to become his best friend. Keller could very easily be a nice sleeper play this season for owners.


Check back every week for more “Friday Football Diary” and more “Fantasy Preview”

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

July 5th, 2009 7:37pm PST


Sunday Night Football Notes

Can Favre find Greatness Again?

What can Brett bring to the plate in 2009….
There really is no reason to believe that Favre can make one more curtain call and find the magic that eluded him a year, is there? After watching the “Golden Boy” struggle down the stretch in 2008, are the Vikings really counting on the son-to-be 40-year old retired quarterback to take their team to the next level?

It would seem that is the current concensus, since all signs point to Favre signing with the team and joining the Vikings by the time training camp opens. Favre had offseason surgery to repair a torn bicep and by what was evident last season arm strength is going to be a big concern for the Vikes heading into camp. Without any time on the field during the minicamps, it would seem pain-free or not, it’s going to be an uphill climb for the leagues former three-time MVP.

There’s little argument that Favre would seem to still have the tools, but after playing 17 seasons in the NFL can his body recover for one more run? His recent surgery appears to have gone well and if the timetable is correct he’s expected to be ready for training camp. With the likes of Dr. James Andrew and former Viking center Matt Birk adding their takes on the prospect of Favre playing, there seems to be little doubt (as if there ever was any).

Perhaps the only big question to ask is not if he’ll play, but rather how he will play?

Remember Favre is now 39-years of age, coming off a poor finishing 2008 and offseason surgery. For many years fans in Wisconsin believed the Golden Boy was superman, but that would hardly seem to be the case now.

We also mustn’t forget that the Vikings also have a couple of other guys that have proven that they can play at this level. I would hardly believe that Sage Rosenfels or Tarvaris Jackson plan to step aside and hand Favre the job.

Favre, may be coming to Minnesota, but anything is hardly written in stone. He’ll likely be in camp more like trying to win the job, rather than inheriting any mantle. Don’t expect this to be any kind of cake walk for Brett and if there is anything true to why the Vikings traded for Rosenfels, there is nothing to say he might not just win the job outright.

Either way fantasy football buffs and fans alike will be paying attention to this one when camps open at the end of this month, as will I.

By David Ortega


Check out more “Sunday Night Football Notes” every week!

FSH: THE ATL REPORT

July 4th, 2009 9:37pm PST


THE ATL REPORT

Around the League

WR Eddie Royal could be looking at “Welker” type year….
Last season Royal led all rookies with 91 catches for the Broncos. And this season under McDaniels in a new system, he’ll be expected to fill a role in the passing that could allow him to flourish in 2009. Already a big talent in the league, the Bronco’s wideout will play the “Wes Welker” role in the team’s new offense. In New England Welker averaged over 100 balls in each of the last two seasons under McDaniels, making Royal a solid bet to generate the same type of fantasy numbers in Denver.

Moreno could eventually be utilized as a three-down player….
The Bronco’s rookie running back selected 12th overall in the 2009 NFL draft is expected to eventually develop into quite a talent and a three-down player according to his head coach. Moreno has the physical tools and has shown the versatility to be such a player. With the team’s current crowded backfield, the team may not be in any hurry to push the kid too quickly, but fantasy owners can expect to see Moreno at some point rise above the competition.

Bears won’t put the shackles on Cutler in 2009….
The Bears aren’t expected to suddenly air-it-out in 209, but with the talent of Cutler under center, the team is expected to open up the playbook some and allow the former Bronco to play his game. Traditionally a more conservative offense, the Bears could see their passing game elevated, but Cutler will likely see his numbers drop some for a year ago (something for fantasy owners to keep in mind).

Browns could be planning to get Edwards more touches…..
After a whole offseason with speculation of trade and rumors of being moved out of Cleveland, it appears wide receiver Braylon Edwards is now going to stay put and be a featured part of the offense. The talk is the team will try to get Edwards involved with more quick hitches and slants to get the ball into his hands more. Edwards certainly has the talent and if this hype plays out the Brown’s receiver could be a big play in fantasy once again.

Broncos could field trade offers for Marshall…
Well according to Adam Schefter (a very reliable NFL source) of the NFL Network, the Broncos will not be actively shopping their disgruntled and often troubled superstar wide receiver, but will be open to listen to offers. Though Marshall is an incredible talent, he has quite the checkered past off the field and could be considered a major risk especially at the amount of coin he’s asking. There’s no telling where this could lead, but fantasy owners are most likely hoping Marshall stays put.

LB Derrick Brooks having tough time drawing interest….
The 36-year old linebacker is still not receiving many calls these days for employment. Brooks was cut in the offseason by the Bucs and although he would like to play in 2009, the prospect looks sketchy at best. With his best playing days now behind him, Brooks won’t offer much value, if any in fantasy this season.

The Edge is still in great playing shape…..
According to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, free agent running back Edgerrin James is in great playing shape. Not to dispute the claim, but it’s hardly something you can take at its word, since Rosenhaus does represent Edge and is hoping to help him find employment. Chances are Edge won’t see any opportunities anytime soon. He’s likely to be called on once team’s cycle through injuries as most do. He’s not a candidate for any fantasy drafts, but could be a possible mid-season pickup.


Check back every week for more “Around the League”

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

July 1st, 2009 10:30pm PST


David's Daily Digest
[My Take]

More football news and happenings from around the league; here’s the latest I am hearing, reading, and following with my take on things and how they will impact the coming fantasy season……


My Take...

TE TONY SCHEFFLER COULD SEE BIG ROLE IN DENVER
My Fantasy Read: The Bronco’s tight end may have been a big question mark heading into the offseason with McDaniel’s arrival, but it looks like there could be big plans in 2009 for the talented receiver. Even if the Marshall situation plays out and he stays, Scheffler has too much skill and talent for McDaniels to ignore. The Broncos tight end can present to many favorable options for the offense and figures to be a big part of the offense in 2009. He should easily be one of fantasy’s top targeted tight ends this summer.

RB LESEAN MCCOY ADDS DEPTH TO BACKFIELD
My Fantasy Read: The Eagle’s second round draft signed his new four year deal and now gives the offense plenty of depth in the backfield. McCoy is not a threat to take Westbrook’s job, but will battle with 2nd year back Lorenzo Booker to back up the Eagle’s starter. With the Eagles hoping to keep Westy healthy all season long, the number two spot could become a more lucrative playing option. Fantasy owners will want to eye this situation well into training camp before making a move on either McCoy or Booker.

RB MIKE BELL COULD BE SEE SOME ACTION THIS YEAR
My Fantasy Read: Knowing the history of the Saints and there trouble keeping their backfield healthy, the former Bronco could find himself some playing time in 2009. Thomas appears to be the number one back, with Bush playing a more versatile role in the passing game. Bell should have a chance at splitting some short-yardage carries and perhaps steal a few touchdowns. He’s hardly worth looking at in standard fantasy drafts, but as needs change during the season he could fill a role.

RB LADANIAN TOMLINSON LOOKING GOOD-TO-GO IN 2009
My Fantasy Read: The Charger’s perennial all-pro runner has looked sharp this offseason and it appears his nagging injuries from last season could be a thing of the past. Tomlinson has been sharp and running well and with the Chargers fooling around a bit with the wildcat, the team could be finding more ways to keep their best weapon more involved with the offense. L.T. has reached that coveted 30-years of age plateau, but appears ready to disprove the nay-sayers. His recent history could knock him down a peg or two on some fantasy boards, but he should still be considered a solid RB1 in 2009 fantasy.


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football to digest....

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

June 29th, 2009 11:37pm PST

[Wednesday Edition]

Who is Number Two?

Fitz Tops the List....

Well, if you’re taking a poll it’s pretty easy to figure out who is the number one receiver in fantasy this summer. Just stop by your local pub or watercooler and you can get it straight from your local fantasy guru. The Cardinal’s wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is more than likely going to be the number one selected receiver in fantasy this season.

When you look at the fantastic numbers he posted in the playoffs a year ago, it really becomes tough to argue (546-yards, 30 receptions, 7 touchdowns in four games). In the regular season Fitz was no disappointment with over 1,400-yards and nearly 100 balls. Fantasy owners are going to be just relishing at the thought of what Fitz is going to do in 2009.

So Larry Fitzgerald is easily and arguably considered the top pair of hands in the NFL, so who is number two?

The Candidates…

Last season there were a handful of misfits that easily fit in this slot. In Houston the Texans boast easily one of the leagues up and coming superstars in wideout Andre Johnson. In 2008 Johnson posted ridiculous numbers posting 1,575-yards (ranked 1st) and 115 receptions (ranked 1st). Johnson is a monster and can be dominant at times, but his eight touchdowns last season fell a bit short of taking the top spot.

In Atlanta, the Falcons easily have one of the leagues best kept secrets with wide receiver Roddy White. In 2007, White broke out with a solid campaign (83 catches, 1,202-yards) and followed up those numbers with an even more impressive 2008 season. His 88 catches put him in the top 10 and his 1,382-yards ranked 4th in the league. The added help of an all-pro tight end should help the Falcon’s receiver to elevate his game once again, but his seven touchdowns are still a bit below par to snag the top honors.

Perhaps the only candidate that has the best shot of unseating the Cardinal’s stud receiver is the Patriot’s Randy Moss. Considered one of the league’s very best, Moss is only one season removed from a record setting 2007 campaign (98 receptions, 1,493-yards, 23 touchdowns). With the return of Tom Brady under center in 2009, Moss figures to have the best odds of repeating his spectacular 2007 season. Without Brady, Moss was still a solid top 10 receiver finishing with over 1,000-yards and 11 touchdowns.

Other receivers worth considering as the next dawg down after Mr. Fitzgerald are the Lion’s own Calvin “Megatron” Johnson (1,331-yards, 12 touchdowns), the Broncos own (if he stays) Brandon “Optimus-Prime” Marshall (104 receptions, 1,265-yards in 15 games), the Bills newest weapon Terrell Owens (three straight seasons with at least 10 touchdowns), the Panthers Steve Smith (1,421-yards in 14 games), and the Saints Marques Colston (98 receptions, 1,202-yards in 2007).

Regardless of who you choose in fantasy drafts, just remember they are all playing second fiddle to Larry Fitz. And while there may not be much room at the top beyond the Cardinal receiver, when you look at this bunch of misfits and a few others that did not get mentioned here, they are all number two and solid fantasy options for 2009.

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FSH: IDP NOTES

June 30th, 2009 11:30pm PST

IDP Notes:

LB BRIAN CUSHING RUNNING WITH FIRST TEAM
My Fantasy Read: The Texan’s rookie linebacker has stepped right in at strong-side and is expected to start this season. He’s been impressive thus far during the offseason, and will be a nice addition for the defense this season. Cushing has enough athleticism to be a three down player and figures to be an IDP impact player at the strong side.

DE DERRICK BURGESS FACING CLOUDED SITUATION
My Fantasy Read: The Raider’s defensive lineman could be spending more time off the field and on the sidelines. With the signing of Grege Ellis, Burgess isn’t expected to see a lot of time playing. The thought is the team could be trying to move the nine year veteran, but it’s looking more like he will remain and serve as a pass-rush specialist. Burgess won’t have much value in 2009, but could be a reserve pass-rushing DL for fantasy owners in IDP leagues.

DB MIKE BROWN SIGNS WITH KANSAS CITY
My Fantasy Read: The Chief’s looking to add veteran leadership and some playmaking ability have signed the former Bear safety Mike Brown. Last season, Brown bounced back to play 15 games, after missing a total of 43 games in the previous four seasons. Brown finished with 73 tackles and two interceptions a year ago and will hope to bring that type of production to a young Chief’s secondary. Brown should be a more than capable IDP play in 2009.


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FSH: ON THE COVER

June 29th, 2009 11:30pm PST

This Week on the Cover….

Flight of the Arizona Cardinal

There’s really not much debate this offseason when you discuss “who is the best receiver in the game today.” There certainly are some names that could put of an argument; Andre Johnson (1,575 receiving yards), Calvin Johnson (12 receiving touchdowns), and Anquan Boldin (11 receiving touchdowns).

When you examine the full body of work, there’s no comparison. Last season the Cardinal’s top target Larry Fitzgerald finished the 2008 campaign with 96 receptions (ranked 4th), 1,431-yards receiving (ranked 2nd), and 12 receiving touchdowns (tied for 1st).

It wasn’t just what Fitz did throughout the 2008 season, but it was how he elevated his game in the postseason and nearly brought a Super Bowl title to the Arizona desert. In four games, the Card’s wideout was not only phenomenal, but he was unstoppable and record-setting. Fitzgerald finished his post-season run with 30 catches, 546-yards, 7-touchdowns, and the fantasy world wondering what to expect in 2009.

With the nucleus of the Arizona aerial assault intact, there’s no reason to think Fitzgerald can’t have a record setting season in 2009. Last season was just a taste of things to come, with this year very likely to be the Flight of the Arizona (Red) Condor.


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