Wednesday, April 8, 2009

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

April 8th, 2009 11:30pm PST


David's Daily Digest
[My Take]


The 2009 NFL draft is approaching fast, but as there is so much to discuss concerning the two days in April, there's just as much taking place now to scrutinize. Player activity and movement continues to stir the pot and here's my take on the latest...

My Take...

WR TERRELL OWENS REPORTS FOR WORKOUTS
The Bills high-profile receiver, who normally works out with a personal trainer has reported to voluntary workouts with the team. It may be too early to read too deep into this one, but it definitely is a good sign for the Bills, quarterback Trent Edwards, and fantasy owners. T.O. is one of the hardest working players off-the-field and in the gym and he's still in great playing shape. This step toward bonding with his new team could be a good sign of big things to come in 2009.

RB BRIAN WESTBROOK IS "FEELING GOOD"
The Eagle's work-horse running back says he's feeling good and expects to be healthy and ready to go in 2009. Last season injuries impacted Westbrook's effectiveness and production, but even at less than 100% (missed two games) he was still able to run for more than 900-yards, catch 54 passes, and scored 14 touchdowns. When healthy, Westbrook is a dynamic skill player on offense and fantasy juggernaut, take note and heed his words, he's "feeling good."

OT WALTER JONES STILL REHABBING
The Seahawks offensive tackle coming off micro-fracture surgery on his left knee, has yet to be cleared to practice. At 35, Jones is at the tail end of his career where injuries typically play a big part. His absence will definitely be a cause for concern and have the team looking at addressing this specific need, especially as we get closer to the draft. Last season the Seahawks allowed 36 sacks and if Jones is unable to return from his serious knee injury the team will have to look at possible replacements in the draft.

QB MATTHEW STAFFORD COULD BE A LION
The word on the football street is the Lions are making plans to sign Georgia's quarterback Matthew Stafford. While this news could be very telling, the truth seems to be that the team is merely getting possible prospects lined up to sign prior to the draft. Stafford would seem to be the likely choice, but there is no guarantee that this is set.



IDP Notes:
Defense wins championships and knowing who is where and how they fit will be a key when selecting your IDP studs in your coming fantasy draft this summer. Just like their offensive brethren, there's more happening on the defensive side of the ball worth noting. Here's my take on the latest notes this week....

DL MARCUS STROUD SIGNS EXTENSION WITH BILLS
The Bills surprisingly gave their defensive lineman a two year extension, but fantasy owners will be hoping he can give something more in return in 2009. After battling through injuries in the 2006 and 2007 season, in 2008 Stroud returned to action but was not greatly impressive with just 29 solo tackles and just two sacks. This signing won't guarantee production for IDP owners, but is should guarantee that Stroud figures to play well into his 30's.

DL TANK JOHNSON TO SIGN WITH BENGALS
The troubled defensive lineman wasn't able to make things work in Dallas, so he'll try his luck in Cincinnati; home of the wayward son. Tank Johnson played in all 16 games in 2008 for the Cowboys, but started in just one and recorded only one sack. He's a long shot to have any kind of great impact in Cincinnati and he hasn't been a productive player on defense since his sophmore season in Chicago. IDP owners will want to avoid this pick in their coming drafts. The Bengals may be giving Tank another shot, but fantasy owners will want to "wait and see."

LB LANCE BRIGGS JOINS OFFSEASON PROGRAM
The Bear's linebacker had one of his best seasons in 2008 with 110 total tackles and three interceptions. Hoping to improve in 2009, Briggs will be participating in the team’s voluntary offseason program this week. The former Arizona Wildcat was the team's defensive MVP and best IDP stud. Even though he's not used much as a pass rusher, he's still a playmaking linebacker that can be very productive in fantasy.


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