Monday, July 6, 2009

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”



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