FSH: WHAT'S THE LATEST

April 5th, 2010 11:07pm PST

What's the Latest

The Rams release Bulger...

After much debate it seems clear what the Rams intend to do on this coming draft day. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Monday April 5th, 2010 the Rams announced the release of their former starting quarterback Marc Bulger, who took over the reins when Kurt Warner left town in 2004. Bulger had some early success with the Rams, but with just three total wins over the past two seasons it's time for a change in St. Louis.

Given Bulger's current contract situation (he was due to earn $8.5 million this season) the move comes as little surprise. And without a current clear-cut starter on the roster, this opens the door to the notion that the Rams will go quarterback with their number one overall pick in this year's draft.

After his solid performance at his pro day many experts are sold on the Rams taking Oklahoma's Sam Bradford with the number one overall pick. Given their dire need at the position and the hopes to rebuild fast (ala Atlanta) Bradford looks to be a solid investment, but the team will still need to add some pieces up front to protect this investment if they hope to cash in.

Redskins trade for McNabb...

Only if you were busy hunting for eggs on Sunday might you have missed the recent NFL news that rocked the East. Long time Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb was traded to the Washington Redskins. The six-time Pro Bowler in a surprise move was dealt to a divisional for a second round pick (37th pick overall) in this year's draft and either a third or fourth round pick in next year's draft. With McNabb 33 years of age, the Redskin's new head coach Mike Shanahan is hoping to extend this quarterback's playing career with the same kind of success he was able to enjoy with another Pro Bowl quarterback (John Elway). Elway was 34 when Shanahan arrived in Denver.

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

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

November 15th, 2009 9:37pm PST

Sunday Night FF Headlines

Who is now making Fantasy News?

Keep track of which players are making noise

[fantasy points based on traditional scoring]

RB-Chris Wells scores twice in big division win …

The Cardinal’s rookie running back had his best game as a pro finishing week 10 with 85 yards rushing, 32 yards receiving and two touchdowns in the team’s big divisional win over the Seahawks. (23 fantasy points)

QB-Philip Rivers is solid on Sunday.....

The Charger’s quarterback Philip Rivers passed for 231 yards on 20 of 25 passing (80 percent completion) and tossed two touchdowns to lead his team to a big win. (21 fantasy points)

QB- Marc Bulger has big passing day in loss..…

The Ram’s quarterback Marc Bulger had his best passing day of the season completing 26 of 40 passes for 298 yards with two touchdowns in the team’s week 10 loss to the Saints. (21 fantasy points)

RB-LaDanian Tomlinson is in good form on Sunday….

The Charger’s running back had his best day running in 2009 with 24 carries for 96 yards and two touchdowns to lead his team. (21 fantasy points)

RB-Jonathan Stewart hits paydirt twice……

The Panthers running back saw his normal workload on Sunday, but made the most with 82 yards rushing and two scores to help lead his team to a home win over the Falcons. (20 fantasy points)

WR-Donnie Avery has big day with two scores..…

The Rams second year receiver had his best game this season finishing the afternoon with four catches for 67 yards including two touchdowns in the team’s week 10 loss to the Saints. (18 fantasy points)

WR-Lee Evans reaches paydirt twice in loss..…

The Bills wide receiver Lee Evans made the most of his grabs on Sunday against the Titans finishing the day with four receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns. (17 fantasy points)

Some IDP Fantasy Newsmakers…

LB-Nick Barnett has busy day in big win…

The Packers linebacker was busy making tackles and harassing quarterbacks in his team’s week 10 victory. Barnett finished the day with eight tackles and two sacks.

DB-Charles Woodson is an IDP monster on Sunday…

The Packers stud corner was all over the field, finishing Sunday’s contest with nine tackles, two forced fumbles, an interception, and a sack.

DL-Andre Carter is a beast on Sunday…

The Redskins defensive end led the charge on Sunday against the Broncos finishing the afternoon with seven tackles and one and a half sacks.

LB-Andra Davis gets busy in week 10 loss…

The Broncos linebacker was a busy man in the team’s week 10 loss to the Redskins. Davis finished the game with 12 tackles and a sack.

By David Ortega

Check back every Sunday for more “Sunday Night FF Headlines!”

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 14th, 2009 11:30pm 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……

Player News From Across the Wire...

Hines Ward, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
Hines Ward sat out Wednesday's practice.
My Fantasy read on Ward: Expect this to be the norm with players like Hines Ward that have earned the respect of their peers. Ward is likely resting and healing, so expect to see the Pro Bowler on Sunday against the Browns…..

Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis Rams
The official Twitter page of the St. Louis Rams is reporting that the team has named Marc Bulger as their starting quarterback for this week's game against the Jaguars. Bulger will replace Kyle Boller, who suffered a head injury last week.
My Fantasy read on Bulger: The Jaguars have just four sacks this season. If Bulger and his offensive line can find him time, he could bounce back this week against the league’s 30th ranked pass defense….

Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Maurice Jones-Drew is frustrated and displeased with the Jaguars' offense, according to the Associated Press. He said, "It just seems like now if we do not get 30 yards rushing, we just go away from the running game. I have never been part of a team like that."
My Fantasy read on Jones-Drew: this kind of “speaking out” can have two possible outcomes; one it does nothing or two is sparks this team to man-up. If this team is going to rise to the challenge, expect them to hop on MJD’s back and let him lead the way. This could be a big week….

Dustin Keller, TE, New York Jets
Rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez noted that he needs to target Dustin Keller more in the passing game, according to the Star-Ledger. Sanchez said, "I need to do a better job of finding him, because he is a great target. He has been great."
My Fantasy read on Keller: Fantasy owners shouldn’t get too excited too fast. This is likely to be a gradual process as Sanchez is more likely to test out his new toy, wide receiver Braylon Edwards. Keller is good and will eventually be worked back into the rotation, but give it time….

Ben Watson, TE, New England Patriots
Ben Watson was limited is Wednesday's practice while recovering from a head injury, according to the Boston Globe.
My Fantasy read on Watson: The Patriot’s tight end is a classic hit and miss, now add injury to the mix and he becomes a difficult play. Even when healthy, you’re likely to fall victim to his poor outinsg on occasion. With only has 14 receptions this season, he’s a middle TE2.….

Willie Parker, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Willie Parker fully practiced Wednesday, according to the Browns' official website.
My Fantasy read on Parker: All signs point to Parker returning to the starting lineup this week, but don’t think for a second that Mendenhall won’t get into the mix early. The second year back has played to well the past two weeks, this is likely to become a timeshare…..

Jamal Lewis, RB, Cleveland Browns
Jamal Lewis was limited during today's practice, according to the Browns' official website.
My Fantasy read on Lewis: The Brown’s running back was limited last week and played on Sunday, so it is likely he’s taking it easy again. Expect Lewis to be in there against the Steelers, but at less than 100 percent, look for better options this week….

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

FSH: THE FANTASY SPORTS ZONE (DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH)

October 14th, 2009 9:37pm PST

The Fantasy Sports Zone

“Diamonds in the Rough”

(Fantasy Sleepers)

Players you should watch and few to grab!
Every week it seems the coal mines get darker and deeper and refuge is no where in sight, but never fear my friend, it’s always darkest when the lights are out and no one’s home. With five weeks down, we enter week six looking for more precious stones to discover.

After some Monday night heroics, a rambunctious finish on Sunday, and a percy-fect start in Minnesota, we’ve got a few more jewels to consider;

This week’s gems…

In Miami…..
Well the fans of Miami can stop wishing or so it would seem. After Monday night's impressive come from behind performance it appears they could have their man. Second year quarterback Chad Henne stood tall before a national audience and a division rival and handled the pressure packed situation with all the poise of a savvy vet. Henne came up with big plays and some big passes to lead the Dolphins to a big win over the Jets. Henne sure looks like he has the tools and he appears to be a safe bet to keep the job for now. His shine may not be blinding, but it's also no longer dull; keep watching this kid.

In Minnesota……
For some their time comes later rather than sooner, but for the Viking's electric rookie receiver Percy Harvin his time may be now. Through the team’s first five games, he's shown flashes of brilliance and good chemistry with his field general (Favre). This week he and the Vikes will take on a very shaky Ravens secondary. The key for the Vikings passing game will be to attack the middle of the field; enter Mr. Harvin. This could be a big week for Percy and the right time for owners to play the kid.

In St. Louis……
Now certainly the rough is pretty thick surrounding the Rams quarterback Marc Bulger with his sub-par start this season, but after watching him in relief work last Sunday, could there be hope? It's a stretch, next week the Rams face a very poor Jaguar secondary and more importantly a questionable pass rush. If given time to throw Bulger can be an effective passer. Last week the Ram’s quarterback was seven for seven passing in limited action and with a full week of practice should be ready for Sunday. Bulger is a stretch here and likely won’t shine for very long, but this could be one of his best weeks passing in 2009. The Rams offense has been bad this season, but it has to improve eventually, right?

Worth keeping your eye on for now….

The word coming out of Philly is rookie running back LeSean McCoy could be splitting time with starter Brian Westbrook. Thus far in this young season McCoy has been a little less than spectacular, but he leads the Iggles with 164 yards on the ground and does have eight receptions in limited action. This week looks like a great opportunity for the kid to take advantage of some additional carries with the hapless Raider up next. Even as a part-time player this week, this running back could soar and take flight for the coming weeks.

As Kyle Orton and the Broncos offense get going, there could be more wealth to spread in Denver. Wide receiver Jabar Gaffney having made the crossover from New England to Denver is the most familiar with the offense and has at times been a timely crutch for Kyle. With the offense grooving and both Marshall and Royal starting to shine, Gaffney could quietly become a very reliable third receiver in the Broncos passing scheme. Last week Orton passed the ball 48 times and with great success. With that many balls there should be plenty to go around.

Remember to check back for more "Diamonds in the Rough!"

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

September 28th, 2009 9:57pm PST

Sunday Night Football Notes

Week three Injury round-up


(Monday, Sept 28th update)

Bears:
According to the Associated Press linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer should be able to play in week 4 after leaving Sunday’s game with a rib injury.
Bills:
According to head coach Dick Jauron, both defensive backs Leodis McKelvin (broken leg) and Donte Whitner (injured thumb) will be out indefinitely. McKelvin is expected to be for an extended period while Whitner is having surgery to repair the thumb. He will be evaluated on a weekly basis.
Colts:
According to the National Football Post defensive end Dwight Freeney will undergo an MRI on Monday to exam his right quadriceps. Freeney is noted as saying he “felt something pop.”
Dolphins:
Quarterback Chad Pennington will miss the remainder of the 2009 season after suffering a torn capsule in his shoulder according to ESPN. The Associated Press is reporting that Pennington will seek a second opinion.
Lions:
Running back Kevin Smith left Sunday’s game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury. According to Profootballtalk.com a league sourced says his injury will be “week to week.”
Niners:
Running back Frank Gore left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury and did not return. According to an NFL Network report he suffered a high ankle sprain and is expected to miss at least two weeks.
Patriots:
Running back Laurence Maroney suffered a thigh injury in Sunday’s win over the Falcons. He says he will be fine although he did not play in the second half. Defensive tackle Vince Wolfork also suffered an ankle injury, but his injury is not expected to be long term.
Rams:
Quarterback Marc Bulger injured his shoulder Sunday against the Packers and left the game early. The early report is a bruised rotator cuff according to the team. His availability for week 4 is questionable. Wide receiver Laurent Robinson suffered a broken leg in Sunday’s loss against the Packers. He will miss the remainder of the season.
Redskins:
According to the Associated Press the team expects defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to be fine after being forced out of Sunday’s game with a strained glut muscle. Haynesworth will undergo an MRI on Monday according to the team.
Titans:
The Nashville Tennessean reports that defensive back Vincent Fuller suffered a fractured arm on Sunday and underwent surgery Monday. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks. Defensive back Courtland Finnegan suffered a hamstring injury as well in the team’s week 3 loss, but the extent of his injury is unknown.

By David Ortega

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

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

August 31st, 2009 9:30pm 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……

News From Across the Wire...

Brandon Marshall, WR, Denver Broncos
The Broncos have reportedly discussed trading Brandon Marshall with multiple undisclosed NFL teams, according to ProFootballTalk.com.
My Fantasy read on Marshall: The Bronco’s wideout has become a very high fantasy risk. Given his current situation, it becomes a tremendous gamble to use a high draft pick on the suspended receiver. He has more value as a low end number two or high number three…..

Matt Schaub, QB, Houston Texans
Matt Schaub suffered an apparent ankle injury during Monday's preseason game against the Vikings.
My Fantasy read on Schaub: The Texan’s fragile quarterback looks pretty risky at the moment limping off the field Monday night. The only good sign was his grittiness staying in for the final scoring drive in the first half. He’s a safer back-up fantasy quarterback, with starter potential…..

Deion Branch, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Updating an earlier report, Deion Branch is not in jeopardy of being cut by the Seahawks, according to Mike Sando ESPN.
My Fantasy read on Branch: The Seahawks receiver has been relatively quiet this preseason, but if he survives the cuts he’ll likely slot in as the teams number three. He’ll have diminished fantasy value, but he’ll be worth watching and could have better value later in the season, if he stays healthy….

Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis Rams
The Rams are being cautious with Marc Bulger as he recovers from his broken pinkie, according to their official team website. Bulger said, "The bone is still fractured. I think a week from today it will be even more healed. It would just be a shame to go out there and do too much today, take a snap and a re-break or whatever and get set back more. Everything we are doing is just to be safe. We are right on course."
My Fantasy read on Bulger: The Rams quarterback has basically fallen off the boards and can be taken later off the wire as a fill in, should he come back from this injury and start to play well. Bulger has been among the worst starters the past couple of seasons and should be avoided in any drafts…..

Jamal Lewis, RB, Cleveland Browns
Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post suggests that Jamal Lewis may not make the Browns.
My Fantasy read on Lewis: The Brown’s running back has not been getting a lot of love these days. There’s no reason to believe the Browns offense will be any good, so fantasy owners can safely wait until the middle rounds to pluck Lewis as your 3rd or 4th running back.

Anquan Boldin, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Anquan Boldin sat out Monday's practice while resting his strained hamstring, according to the Arizona Republic.
My Fantasy read on Boldin: The Card’s receiver is as tough as they come, so there doesn’t seem to be any worry of him missing the opener. The other good news is there’s been little heard regarding his contract demands, so he appears to be a safe fantasy pick even as a high number two……

Michael Clayton, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Michael Clayton returned to the practice field for the Bucs on Monday, according to PewterReport.com. Clayton has missed time during this preseason with a nagging hamstring injury.
My Fantasy read on Clayton: The Buc’s receiver has basically been non-existent since his rookie season. Marred by injuries and inconsistency his career has fallen to a flat line and without a top tier quarterback in camp, it’s not likely to be revived…..

Antonio Bryant, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
PewterReport.com is reporting that Tampa Bay wide receiver Antonio Bryant returned to practice on Monday. Bryant has missed much of the preseason after knee scope surgery.
My Fantasy read on Bryant: Bryant is likely being highly overvalued in many fantasy drafts. The Bucs downgraded their quarterback position with the release of Garcia and staying with McCown and Leftwich in camp. Bryant will be the go to in Tampa, but he’s not going to replicate his 2008 numbers, he’s a safer high-end number three or later…..

Matt Leinart, QB, Arizona Cardinals
Matt Leinart was limited during Monday's practice due to soreness in his left shoulder, according to the Arizona Republic.
My Fantasy read on Leinart: Matt has little fantasy value heading into the 2009 season, other than a handcuff for starter Kurt Warner. With Warner pushing 40, Leinart is one of the more favorable fantasy insurance policies…..

Brett Favre, QB, Minnesota Vikings
Brett Favre told the media on Monday that he believes he may be playing with a cracked rib, according to ESPN.com. Favre said he still plans to play the entire first half on Monday and that he won't wear any kind of protective equipment because "the damage is done."
My Fantasy read on Favre: Cracked rib or not Favre looked solid Monday night against the Texans. There were some subtle signs of rust, but clearly the old man can still chuck the pigskin. He’s not a fantasy starter, but as long as his health holds he’ll be a solid QB2…..

Laurent Robinson, WR, St. Louis Rams
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch is reporting that Rams' wide receiver Laurent Robinson has solidified his position as the team's number two receiver with his play during the preseason. It looks as if he will start opposite Donnie Avery in Week 1 for St. Louis.
My Fantasy read on Robinson: The Rams newest addition to their 2009 aerial team could be a nice sleeper for 2009. Robinson has looked great and having not seen much action in Atlanta remains a relative unknown. Fantasy owners should be able to target him in the later rounds as a third or fourth receiver…..

Tom Brady, QB, New England Patriots
Tom Brady was on the field for the start of Patriots' practice on Monday, according to the Boston Globe. Brady was doing mostly hand-offs and was not seen throwing the ball.
My Fantasy read on Brady: The team is not going to push Brady too quickly. It sounds like he’s going to be fine and ready to protect his top fantasy quarterback ranking. He’s no more a risk than any other starter, but he has a tremendous upside that would seemingly be worth the gamble, draft accordingly…..

Tom Brandstater, QB, Denver Broncos
The Associated Press is reporting that Broncos' rookie quarterback Tom Brandstater may start the team's final preseason game. With starter Kyle Orton getting injured during Sunday night's game and backup Chris Simms expected to miss a few more weeks with an ankle injury, Brandstater is next in line for snaps.
My Fantasy read on Brandstater: If Orton’s finger becomes problematic, don’t expect McDaniels to turn Brandstater into the next Cassel. Orton is the only Bronco quarterback with any value and even his is limited…..

A.J. Feeley, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
NFL.com is reporting that the New England Patriots may be interested in Eagles' quarterback A.J. Feeley. The Patriots released backup quarterback Kevin O'Connell on Sunday, and Feeley is rumored to be on the trading block after the Eagles signed Michael Vick.
My Fantasy read on Feeley: With Vick still in limbo, it seems a little premature for the Eagles to make any immediate moves. While this talk circulates through the rumor mills, Feeley’s fantasy stock will plummet making him a risky play even as McNabb’s back-up…..

Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
ProFootballTalk.com is reporting that Eagles' quarterback Donovan McNabb referred to Michael Vick's role with the team as a gimmick. When asked if he would be more comfortable with Vick playing consecutive snaps or an entire series, McNabb responded: "Before you can come up with gimmicks, before you can come up with something else, you got to get your base offense going."
My Fantasy read on McNabb: With his new three-headed attack McNabb looks to be on the cusp of another solid fantasy season. He’s going to be one of the better second tier quarterbacks this season. Despite the disruption or influence of Vick, McNabb will should flourish in 2009….

Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills
NBCSports.com is reporting that Bills' wideout Terrell Owens returned to practice on Monday. Owens has been out for three weeks with a toe injury.
My Fantasy read on Owens: The Bills will likely take the safe road with T.O. and ensure he will be ready for the opener. His return to practice is a great sign and fantasy owners can expect big things in 2009 from Owens……

Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, 49ers' GM Scot McCloughan is confident that the team will get first-round pick Michael Crabtree signed before the season begins. "It'll get done," McCloughan told the paper. "What's three or four months on a five- or six-year contract?"
My Fantasy read on Crabtree: The Niner’s unsigned rookie remains a holdout and has lost tremendous fantasy value along the way. He’s likely to be drafted by someone in your league, but if you’re that guy, make sure it’s your last pick…..


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

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FANTASY FOOTBALL HEADLINES

August 30th, 2009 10:37pm PST

Sunday Night FF Headlines

Who’s making Fantasy News this Past Week?

WR Brandon Marshall could return to the team?……
With key injuries thinning the position, the troubled superstar could suddenly be given the second chance to make good with the team. Marshall has been suspended for the remainder of the preseason, but with the Bronco’s losing wide receiver Jabar Gaffney it most certainly looks as though he’ll have every opportunity to return with the team, if he doesn’t blow it…..

QB Marc Bulger throws during practice….
The Rams quarterback did not participate in practice or take any snaps, but he did throw some balls which is a good sign. Bulger has lost a lot of stock over the past couple of seasons with poor play and he’ll likely to go undrafted in fantasy leagues. While we wouldn’t advise picking him up, he could offer some value later in the season as a bye week fill-in or injury replacement….

QB Brett Favre expected to play entire half Monday night…
It’s been tough to gage the Golden Boy thus far, but Monday night will offer a great opportunity to get a look at what we might expect from Mr. Favre. The Vikings have plenty of talent and if Favre has anything left, he could be a very good back up fantasy quarterback…..

QB Matt Cassel suffers a sprained ankle and MCL…
The Chiefs are still holding their breaths with the loss of Cassel, but the good news is it doesn’t appear to be an extended length of time. There’s been no official report on his injury, but it would be safe to speculate Cassel will be a huge risk to start week one…..

DEF Broncos struggle against Cutler and Bears…
The Bronco’s defense is not a fantasy favorite this season, as it has not been for several. Following Sunday night’s loss to the Bears, the unit did very little to change that perception. The team has too much talent to remain at the bottom, but it could be several weeks before fantasy owners see anything worthwhile……

QB Jay Cutler looks sharp in hostile territory….
The play of quarterback Jay Cutler Sunday night could go a long way and say something about the young man. Sometimes regarded as immature, Cutler played very well in front of a hostile Denver crowd and showed a lot of poise. He did not post huge fantasy numbers, but he was efficient, something fantasy owners might have to become more accustomed to….

QB Matt Hasselbeck appears to be in mid-season form….
The Seahawks quarterback appears healed from his 2008 injury woes and is already showing mid-season form. Hasselbeck missed much of last season and is likely to be a forgotten name in fantasy, but he should not be. In three games this season, Hass has completed 71% of his passes and thrown four touchdowns. Even though he’s likely to be undervalued, he’s got a shot to be a solid QB1 this season…..


By David Ortega

Check back every Sunday for more “Sunday Night FF Headlines!”

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

August 17th, 2009 9:30pm 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……


News From Across the Wire...

Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, New York Giants
Ahmad Bradshaw carried the ball five times for 35 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 24-17 preseason win over the Panthers. He also caught two passes for 17 receiving yards.

Roscoe Parrish, WR, Buffalo Bills
Roscoe Parrish exited Monday's practice early after landing hard in the end zone while catching a pass, according to the Bills' official website.

Brandon Marshall, WR, Denver Broncos
Brandon Marshall and his agent met with Broncos coach Josh McDaniels on Monday, and reiterated that Marshall wants a new contract or to be traded.

Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins
Clinton Portis has been a standout in training camp with the Redskins, according to the Washington Post. Head coach Jim Zorn said, "He has worked hard, run hard, and he is learning as well."

Troy Williamson, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Troy Williamson fared well in tonight's 12-9 preseason loss at Miami, as he hauled in a game-high four reception for 74 yards.

Carson Palmer, QB, Cincinnati Bengals
Carson Palmer has been ruled out for Thursday's preseason game while nursing a mild-to-moderate ankle sprain, according to ProFootballTalk.com.

Greg Olsen, TE, Chicago Bears
After missing the team's preseason opener against the Bills last weekend with a hip ailment, tight end Greg Olsen was back at practice on Monday, according to the Brad Biggs.

Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis Rams
Marc Bulger has suffered a "small fracture" in his right pinkie finger, and will be shutdown for a minimum of two weeks, according to the team.

Brian Westbrook, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Brian Westbrook fully practiced with the Eagles Monday, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. He had been participating in individual and installation drills over the previous two days as he recovers from offseason ankle surgery.

Marvin Harrison, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Marvin Harrison is not ready to hang up his cleats and wants to play in 2009, according to Adam Schefter.

Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Indianapolis Colts
Anthony Gonzalez returned to practice Monday, according to the Colts' official website.

Kelley Washington, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Kelley Washington is believed to be the leading candidate for the No. 4 role at receiver with the Ravens, according to the Baltimore Sun. He is competing with Justin Harper.

Bernard Berrian, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Bernard Berrian did not practice Monday while nursing his hamstring injury, according to the Star Tribune.

Terrell Owens, WR, Buffalo Bills
Terrell Owens returned to practice Monday after missing camp last week with a sprained toe, according to ESPN.

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Carolina Panthers
Jonathan Stewart will miss tonight's exhibition game against the Giants, according to the Gaston Gazette.

Steve Smith, WR, Carolina Panthers
Steve Smith has been ruled out for tonight's preseason game against the Giants, according to the Gaston Gazette.

Zach Miller, TE, Oakland Raiders
Raiders' head coach Tom Cable punched defensive assistant Randy Hanson in the face earlier in training camp, according to NFL Fanhouse.

Michael Clayton, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Michael Clayton returned to practice Monday, according to the Pewter Report. He has been nursing a hamstring injury.

Roy Williams, WR, Dallas Cowboys
Roy Williams returned to practice Monday, according to ESPN. He is dealing with a sprained left wrist, which he sustained during Sunday's early practice.

Percy Harvin, WR, Minnesota Vikings
After sitting out the team's preseason debut last Friday with a shoulder injury, rookie receiver Percy Harvin is expected to suit up when the Vikings play the Chiefs this Friday, according to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune.

Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia Eagles
After apparently lobbying for the team to sign Michael Vick, Donovan McNabb said on Monday that the team should look into signing Plaxico Burress, according to Pro Football Talk.

LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego Chargers
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Chargers' running back LaDainian Tomlinson will play in the team's second preseason game on Saturday. This will mark the first time in his career that Tomlinson has played in two game in the same preseason.

Matthew Stafford, QB, Detroit Lions
According to the Detroit News, the Lions are going to have a tough time keeping rookie quarterback Matthew Stafford out of the starting lineup when the season begins. Stafford showed a level of calmness and poise in his first preseason outing, and he is scheduled to start the team's next preseason game against the Browns.

Brett Favre, QB, (No Team)
According to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, there is a strong believe amongst the players at Vikings camp that Brett Favre will play for the team at some point this season.

My Fantasy Reads…

It’s never good news when your team and one of its’ top stars are at a stalemate, but it appears, WR Brandon Marshall and the Bronco’s are at odds again. The (net) sound bites we are currently reading indicate a holdout seems imminent…..

The Redskins running back Clinton Portis looks poised for a big year in 2009, if he can stay healthy. After his breakdown in the second half last season, his stock is going to be down come draft time and he may be undervalued. Fantasy owners would be wise to handcuff his backup Ladell Betts, but make no bones an injury-free Portis has the potential to be top-five back this season……

The Rams quarterback could be a heavy (long shot) sleeper possibility in 2009 and could very come dirt cheap. Even in quarterback leagues Bulger is a forgotten arm and coupled with his current injury, he’s likely to be avoided like the plague……

Westbrook returned to full practice with the team this week and even though he appears healthy he will still remain a fantasy risk. Westbrook has a history of injury, but his high production will make him a risky RB2 option…..

With Harrison gone, Gonzalez should become a more productive fantasy option, but look for Reggie Wayne to be the biggest fantasy beneficiary. He could be poised for a huge 2009 season…..

Berrian is not expected to miss any extended time, but hamstring injuries can be tricky. The Vikings leading receiver is a mid level RB3, but could move up the charts with more stable play or an upgrade at quarterback……

The Panther’s Steve Smith is a top flight fantasy receiver. The team is likely playing it safe by holding the All-pro receiver out, so owners should not be too concerned. Smith will be back out there and worthy of his high draft slot……


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

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL NOTES

July 19th, 2009 7:37pm PST

[Monday Edition]

Sunday Night Football Notes

Who is the next Kurt Warner?

Last season a projected back-up leads the way….

If you were slow to follow fantasy last season, maybe you like many others did not realize heading into training camp Kurt Warner was not even the projected starter for Arizona. In 2008, Cardinal’s quarterback Matt Leinart was expected to step forward and be the team’s starter.

Following a strong second-half run in 2007, Kurt Warner had to once again prove himself all over during the team’s training camp and preseason. It all made sense with Leinart being the younger quarterback and heir apparent to being the team’s franchise quarterback. It’s something the team is still waiting for, but in the interim Warner held court, won the job, passed for 4,500-yards, led the Cards to the Super Bowl, and the rest is history.

Looking ahead to the upcoming football season there are a handful of quarterbacks that are going to be overlooked early in fantasy drafts, simply because of what they did or didn’t do in 2008. Players like Marc Bulger, Matt Schaub, and Matt Ryan did not have spectacular seasons a year ago, so heading into the upcoming campaign they could get bypassed and overlooked. Even players like Carson Palmer, Brett Favre, and Matt Hasselbeck whose 2008 season was greatly affected by injury could miss the draft bus in the early rounds.

So, are any of these players worthy of being considered the next Kurt Warner? Well, some certainly seem to have some of the necessary stars aligned for the upcoming campaign. Ryan in Atlanta should make it on a few radars with Roddy White and the arrival of Tony Gonzalez, but only his second year in the league he’ll improve but reaching the elite is probably not on the radar.

In Houston, if Schaub can stay healthy fantasy owners are going to hope he’ll rely heavily on his all-pro wide receiver Andre Johnson. Schaub has also shown ability and has some key weapons, so he’s likely to be one of those hit and miss draft picks. Carson
Palmer and Matt Hasselbeck are likely to fall into this same category coming off injury plagued 2008 seasons. Both have the plenty of talent and some playmakers left to be fantasy relevant, if they can stay healthy.

In St.Louis, the Rams Marc Bulger has certainly regressed over the past couple of seasons. With young receivers abound, a questionable offensive line, and their offense likely to be anchored by the legs of Steven Jackson, Bulger is a long shot to have a bust-out season.

Like some of the aforementioned players, Favre steps into a situation where he’ll be surrounded by playmakers, but at 40-years of age how many actually believe he’s going to step in and be a playmaker for the Vikings. Last season there was clear evidence of this veteran quarterback feeling the weight of a long and distinguished career. Even when the Vikings open camp, it will hardly be a stroll in the park for Brett Favre.

How will Favre fare this season? Is he a lock to start and even if he does how will he do? I can’t imagine that too many are buying heavily into his latest comeback and this could become quite apparent this summer when Favre’s fantasy value is likely see the former Packer slide into a mid-level QB2 selection (much like Warner last season).

Unlike Warner last year, Favre is likely to be handed the reigns to the offense this season, but after his demise down the stretch a year ago there has to be a lot of skepticism about how much he really has left in the tank. Health is likely to be the major concern for the aging vet, but only time will tell.

With players like Peterson, Berrian, and Harvin surrounding the former three-time NFL MVP, the stage is certainly set for a repeat of a Warner-like return to fame. If Favre is indeed healthy and can recapture some of that boyhood imagination and enthusiasm, not only will Viking fans be in for a treat this season, but fantasy owners could be as well.

A lot remains to be seen, but if you believe in good stories and great finishes we could be in for something quite special in 2009. Nonetheless, training camps are set to open in less than a week and its time for another year of fantasy. The other season of miracles!

By David Ortega

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

FSH: ON THE TICKER

April 1st, 2009 9:37pm PST

24 DAYS TO THE NFL DRAFT

NFL Draft Preview:
On The Ticker

On the Board: St. Louis Rams....
In 2008 the Rams finished their disappointing season at 4-12. Injuries, faulty pass protection, and a poor defense were the biggest culprits last season for St. Louis. That's why, if the Lions follow suit with the selection of Matthew Stafford at number one, the Rams will likely follow with Jason Smith from the University of Baylor. The compelling factor leading many to project precisely this pick has to be the vacancy created by the loss of former all-pro offensive tackle Orlando Pace.

It makes perfect sense. Last season the line was woeful allowing 45 sacks and just 4-yards per carry with one of the league’s elite running backs in Steven Jackson. In 2009 the Rams are expected to be a primary running team, but with the hefty investment they've made in quarterback Marc Bulger, culminated with the loss of Pace, the offensive line is the best place for this team to start rebuilding.

There doesn't seem to be much mystery with what the Rams should be thinking and at 6'5" and 309-lbs, Smith is a specimen that would be tough to pass on. The Baylor prospect is athletic, has good feet, combined with long arms making him the jewel of the draft at his position. Smith is a three year starter in the Big-12 and looks like a solid bet to easily make the transition to the pros. He is considered the one of the best offensive lineman in the draft and in some circles he is projected to be better than previous draftees, Jake Long and Joe Thomas. It would be hard to imagine the Rams going in any other direction and passing on Smith.

(Photo by Baylor Athletics)

When you consider that the Rams were the 28th ranked defense overall a year ago, it becomes easy to argue that this could become a prevalent direction that the team could look. The defense only generated 30 sacks a year ago and allowed teams to average almost 30-points per game. There's no question the team could use a lot of help on the defensive side.

While reviewing many mock drafts from various sites, it seems almost an afterthought now that the Rams will go offensive lineman, but if they decide to take a quick look across the ball, they won't go any further than Wake Forest's Aaron Curry. The dynamic world class hard-hitting backer is considered the best at his position in this year's draft. Like Detroit's dilemma, whether to go offense or defense, the Rams can't go wrong with Curry as the second overall selection.

While many are going to speculate and teeter back and forth in the coming weeks, the Rams have a few components in place on offense and need to continue to build a team that only averaged less than 15-points per game last season. The smart money is going to go with Smith joining the Rams on draft day.

Just a quick fantasy note, considering how well rookie OT Ryan Clady played for Denver in 2008, with a new full-back and a future all-pro tackle (Smith) to replace a former all-pro tackle (Pace), 2009 could be a good year for RB Steven Jackson and the Rams offense.


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