FSH NOTEBOOK: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

October 24th 2017

Tuesday Evening Edition

On The Cover This Week

Where this Eagle Dares!

The Eagles 2nd year quarterback Carson Wentz has been near flawless this season leading his team to a 6-1 record. He has passed for more touchdowns in his first seven games in Eagles history with 17, he's the 4th highest rated starting passer in the league, and this is only his second season.

Through seven games Wentz has completed 143 of 232 passes (61.6 completion percentage), passed for 1,852 yards (264.5 yards/game), and thrown 17 touchdowns to just 4 interceptions. He is also the league's 3rd leading rusher for quarterbacks with 196 yards rushing. And if that weren't enough, he's the No.2 fantasy QB this season.

Last season Wentz was the 2nd overall pick taken in the draft and quickly blossomed as the Eagles starting quarterback from week 1. This season he has taken his game to a new level and exploded onto the NFL scene as a superstar in the making.

Feature in the Monday Night Football pre-game show, fans also got a chance to see how well-rounded and humble this kid is; a big heart, a good head on his shoulders, and doing all the right things. He may be humble, but this is one Eagle you won't be able to keep grounded. Wentz is having a superb season and looks poised to take his team where Eagles dare to fly!

That's My Take

~David Ortega

FSH: WHAT'S THE LATEST

April 19th, 2010 11:07pm PST

What's the Latest

Marshall goes to Miami...

Well it came as little surprise the trading of Brandon Marshall (10 touchdowns in 2009), but how quickly it was done and to whom he was traded may have raised a few eyebrows. Marshall (10 touchdowns in 2009) had lobbied last season (with Denver) for a trade and last week the Broncos obliged by trading the two-time Pro Bowl receiver to Miami for a pair of second round picks.

For the Dolphins they acquire a legit go-to receiver and raise the fantasy stock value of their 3rd year quarterback Chad Henne. Last season Henne through just 12 touchdowns, but with Marshall's large frame that should instantly add a few more to the total for 2010.

Niners pick up Ginn...

With the arrival of Marshall to Miami, it became time for the Phins to part ways with wide receiver Tedd Ginn Jr. The Dolphins already had Ginn on the block, but once they pulled the trigger on other deal this move was much easier to execute. The Niners gave a 5th round pick for Ginn and get not only some added depth at the receiver spot, but some playmaking ability on special teams.

Ginn is an exceptional special teams talent. In three seasons with the Dolphins he has three returns for touchdowns, including two in 2009. He will add a dimension to the Niners that was missing last season. He also has the talent and ability to challenge for the starting job opposite wide receiver Crabtree.

Big Ben likely to face punishment...

Despite no criminal charges being filed, the whole sticky mess that Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has gotten himself into will cost him dearly. According to "The National Football Post" NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said today that Big Ben has violated the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Big Ben was under investigation for allegedly sexually assaulting a 20-year old Georgia woman. He was not charged, but is now likely to face a league suspension for his involvement with the whole incident. There has yet to be any speculation for the length of the penalty, but considering the sensitivity and nature of this particular situation four games would not come as a surprise.

The Washington Post is reporting the suspension could come down as early as Wednesday.


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

FSH: MONDAY MORNING HUDDLE

May 12th, 2009 9:57pm PST

[Tuesday late edition]

The NFL Draft: More Fantasy Recap

A Last Look....
There weren’t too many late drafting teams this year that caught everyone by surprise, but when you are looking for getting the most bang for your buck, ask the New York Giants, the Baltimore Ravens, and the Arizona Cardinals.

Saddled with the 29th pick in the first round the Giants went right for need and picked up a talented receiving prospect, Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina). Nicks is not going to be the next Plaxico Burress, but he’ll add considerable talent needed depth to the position. He’ll be a work, but one that could pay dividends surprisingly sooner than some might expect.

The Giants were already going to be good in 2009, but some might wonder would they be good enough. Their eight picks taken in this year’s draft may not guarantee, but the front office did what it was supposed to by adding quality players and needed depth. Linebacker Clint Sintim (Virginia) could be a name many will hear called quite often this coming season. While offensive tackle William Beatty (Connecticut) likely won’t see a lot of action this season as a starter, at 6’6” he’ll add insurance to an already good line.

The Ravens have found themselves a gem of a quarterback and team leader in Joe Flacco, last year’s first round pick. This year it only made sense to invest in your future and draft him some protection. With their first pick at number 23 the Ravens grab one of this year’s top offensive line prospects, Michael Oher (Mississippi). Oher will likely start 2009 from the sidelines, but at his size and with his talent he’ll add depth and a promising future for the Ravens offensive line.

In Arizona, the Cardinals were left with the 31st pick in the first round and quite honestly got the best value they could hope for. With Edgerrin James now released and left only with a less than impressive Tim Hightower, the Cards definitely needed to find some help in the backfield. Considering what was available in this year’s draft, they really got a bargain with their selection of Chris “Beanie” Wells. He’s likely to start camp playing behind Hightower, but he’s got a great shot and stealing some carries and eventually winning the job by the time the season starts.

Just some final thoughts…

There were some intriguing picks made early in this year’s draft, but not many that would jump off this page. However some notables that I think are worth mentioning for strictly fantasy purposes, the Chargers number 16 pick of linebacker Larry English (Northern Illinois). He may not start, but could still be worth draft in IDP leagues. The Colts selection of running back Donald Brown (Connecticut) could prove to be fantasy note worthy. With Addai showing many kinks in his armor, is very possible for Brown to emerge as a regular contributor in 2009. One last name worth mentioning is the Bengal’s second round draft pick Ray Maualuga (USC). Surprisingly the Trojan linebacker fell to the second round, but there’s no question he’s was huge steal for Cincinnati. He’ll likely start in the middle and should be a solid IDP play in 2009.

Remember to check back for more "Monday Morning Huddle.”

FSH: ON THE TICKER

April 25th, 2009 12:07pm PST

DRAFT DAY IS HERE!!

NFL Draft Preview:
THE COUNTDOWN IS OVER!



On The Ticker: 11 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Houtson Texans....
What They Need: With the Number 15 pick in the 2009 NFL draft, the Texans will be looking to fill their needs on the defensive side of the ball. 2008 the team clearly showed they have playmakers on the offense with; WR Andre Johnson, RB Steve Slaton, and TE Owen Daniels. Where the team fell short last season was on the defense (ranked 27th in scoring). In 2006 Kubiak went with DL Mario Williams as the overall number one pick, this season he'll be looking for a stud defensive back and playmaking linebacker to compliment Williams and company.

On The Ticker: 10 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: San Diego Charger....
What They Need: The Chargers will be on the big board with the 16th overall pick in this year's draft. With so many injuries to their defense last season, especially at the linebacker position, this will be an immediate area of focus. Merriman is in a contract year and coming off surgery. The team could look for a young stud linebacker to play behind an otherwise talented group or search for some help at the receiver position. WR Vincent Jackson stepped up his play in 2008, but there was still too much inconsistency at the position. Even though LaDanian Tomlinson is going to be on board in 2009 as the team's starting running back, the team will still have to address the position for the future.

On The Ticker: 9 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: New York Jets....
What They Need: Although the team has appeared steadfast with it's position to roll with Kellen Clemens or Brett Ratliff as their starter in 2008, with their number 17 draft pick this year, the team could look to make a move and trade up to address a position (QB) that clearly needs help. They also need to look at the receiver position with the departure of Laveranues Coles. Expect the team to possibly be one of those teams to shake things up early in this year's draft, by trying to move up or trading down to acquire more mid-to-late round picks.

On The Ticker: 8 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Denver Broncos....
What They Need: The Broncos will enter the "big board" for the second time with the 18th overall pick. If the teams holds steady and does not try anything crazy, they will follow their number 12 pick with another defensive selection here. There's no hiding the team's biggest deficiency last season, their defense. They were especially awful against the run, so finding a big man in the middle to clog things up will be a top priority. The

On The Ticker: 7 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Tampa Bay Buccaneers....
What They Need: With the 19th pick the Bucs will be looking to fill needs at the LB position and could even consider taking a QB.

On The Ticker: 6 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Detriot Lions....
What They Need: Having basically auctioned off their future on the arm of Matthew Stafford, the Lions should be looking to protect their big investment with an offensive lineman. Even at 20, they could still have a shot at one of the top five or six OL.

On The Ticker: 5 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Philadelphia Eagles....
What They Need: The Eagles will have one of the more interesting positions in the draft, although we may not have to wait to til the 21st spot to see them make a move. The team needs more playmakers on offense to help Donovan. In the one year the team made a run to the Super Bowl, they had Terrell Owens. They have a similar nucleus on offense as their 2003 Super Bowl team, but are just missing that big playmaker. many think the Eagles should make a move for WR Anquan Boldin and I would have to agree. If this move does not pan out, they will likely look at a RB to help Westbrook or a stud linebacker.

On The Ticker: 4 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Minnesota Vikings....
What They Need: The Vikings missed out on the T.J lottery, but with the 22nd pick they could still look for some talent at the WR position. The team will also need to consider a stud offensive tackle, if one of the top prospects should reach this far. They also have holes in the secondary that will need to be filled.

On The Ticker: 3 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: New England Patriots....
What They Need: It's never easy to figure out just what Belichik is going to do, but with Maroney playing fragile in 2008 this could be an area of consideration early, maybe a Chirs Wells. A backup quarterback will be addressed, but not likely until late in the draft, with their early picks, the Patriots could also target another stud linebacker to join the likes of Jerod Mayo.

On The Ticker: 2 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Atlanta Falcons....
What They Need: The Falcons enjoyed a huge turnaround in 2008 and with the recent acquisition of Tony Gonzales at tight end, thier offense could be one of the best in the NFC this coming season. Expect the Falcons to turn most of their focus in this year's draft on the defense.With losses at the lineback position, expect the team's brass to target this position early.

On The Ticker: 1 Days left to the Draft
On the Board: Miami Dolphins....
What They Need: The Dolphins made a huge improvement in 2008, thanks to creative play-calling and a good defense. The defense will need some help on the edges in 2009 and Pennington still needs a go-to receiver.

The Rest of the 1st round draft order...

Pick - Team name
26. Baltimore....the Raven will be looking for more help at WR and on the offensive line.
27. Indianapolis....the Colts will be in search of playmakers on the defensive side of the ball to plug up their soft middle.
28. Buffalo....the Bills will likely use their second pick in the first round to address their need on the defense.
29. New York....the Giants could be a player in a first day, first round trade using this pick to acquire a needed WR.
30. Tennessee....the Titans are still deficient at the WR position and should still be able to find some talent even at 30.
31. Arizona.....the Cardinals could be active on day moving up the board if a deal goes down for Boldin. The Cards need help at RB.
32. Pittsburgh....all may seem well and good for the Super Bowl champs, but a talented defensive back could be the tall order for the first day.


Check back soon as the Draft is up next!!

FSH: SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL STUFF

April 19th, 2009 7:37pm PST


Sunday Night Football Stuff

This Weekend's Talk

Broncos Being Linked to Sanchez...
With the NFL draft less than a week away, many teams will be turning their focus towards this Saturday's Main event. One team many folks will be watching come this Saturday will be the Denver Broncos and in particular the team's new head coach Josh McDaniels. Former head coach Mike Shanahan had not had recent success in the "W" column, but over the past couple of seasons he had enjoyed quite a bit of success on draft day finding gems like Eddie Royal, Ryan Clady, Peyton Hillis, Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, and Tony Scheffler (all since 2006). You can expect the Bronco faithful to be watching McDaniels closely this Saturday.

With all the dust starting to settle following the Cutler fiasco and eventual trade, fans will have to wonder what will be the Broncos first move in the upcoming draft. In Denver the recent talk following the infamous Cutler-Orton trade has been the speculation of the team possibly making a move for quarterback Mark Sanchez. It does sound logical considering everything that has happened, but then you have to wonder if it's time to bring some stability to what has been an otherwise home for chaos and commotion.

Recent sound bites from the Bronco's camp would indicate just that. Head coach Josh McDaniels has indicated that the team will focus on the defense in the draft and SI's Peter King is also noted as saying "McDaniels likes Kyle Orton a lot." The trade with Chicago gave the Broncos a second first round pick (number 18) to go along with their number 12 pick overall. Considering how McDaniels has handled matters thusfar in Denver, who can really tell what he is thinking or what he'll do on Saturday. While Sanchez might make sense on the surface with the trading of Cutler, it stands to reason that the Broncos did not lose as much as first perceived. Orton seems to be a favorite and with the additional pick in the first round, defense would make better sense for a team that struggled near the bottom a year ago.

Bronco fans can only hope that McDaniels will do the right thing, whatever that may be!

Larry Johnson Not Gone Yet...
Although the team opened its’ first offseason minicamp this past week and Johnson was inserted as the team's number one tailback, there seems very little chance that LJ will remain in Kansas City after this weekend's draft. With that said, I would have to believe there does remain one outside possibility for the Chiefs troubled star to stay in town, if he's willing to restructure his contract. There's been no indication or such talk, but just do the math.

Johnson is set to make almost $4-million in 2009. Now is the time for LJ to make an impression with new head coach Todd Haley (who could give him a clean slate) if he hopes to have a place on the roster this summer, but it's not likely the team would keep him with his current contract.

Because the team does lack depth and size behind Johnson, if the former Nittany Lion can make good during the minicamps, I don't think it would be a far reach to expect the Chiefs to offer him a restructured deal to stay on with the team. Saturday will not only be a big day for the Chiefs, but Johnson as well. If the team is too release LJ following this weekend's event at Radio City Music Hall in New York, it would make sense that they draft a running back to compliment that roster of undersize scat-backs. Not only will Chiefs fans be watching intently as the team's brass makes those key decisions, but there's little doubt that LJ's camp will be glued to the events that unfold as well.


Check back every Sunday for more Football Stuff!

FSH: ON THE TICKER

April 18th, 2009 11:17pm PST

14 DAYS TO THE NFL DRAFT

NFL Draft Preview:
On The Ticker

On the Board: Denver Broncos....
Even with the draft yet to arrive, new head coach Josh McDaniels has been creating plenty of turbulence and waves in the Mile High country since his arrival.

After trading away arguably the team’s best player, McDaniels is not making many friends in Denver fast. While some have might mixed emotions about the new coach after some of his recent hirings; Brian Dawkins (Eagles), Andra Davis (Browns) and Correll Buckhalter (Eagles), McDaniels will have a chance on April 25 to win more favor with two draft picks in the top 20.

Sitting at number 12, the Broncos will likely be targeting a top defensive prospect to help continue the overhaul of the leagues 29th defense. Initially following the infamous Cutler-Orton deal, it would have made sense for the Broncos to package a few picks and move up the tree to target one of the young arms in the draft. After consideration and evaluation, the team may be better off holding serve with their current hand under center and continue to make the defense the priority.

The popular talk for the Broncos first pick has been defensive tackle B.J. Raji (Boston College). There’s no question the team will need to look for help in the middle up front on defense and the draft will be a major source in their search, but talent can’t be overlooked either. With defense the priority, inside linebacker Ray Maualuga (University of Southern California) is going to be hard to pass over.

(Photo by Getty Images)

The team has added quite a number of players via free agency to the defense, but Maualuga looks like a solid selection for the McDaniels and company at number 12. At SC Maualuga was a two-time First Team All-Pac 10, finished his career as a Trojan with 194 total tackles, and a winner of the Chuck Bednarik Award.

With the number 18 selection remaining in the first round, it is expected that the team could also use their second first round pick for defense as well. If the team passes on Raji, it could come back later in the round with a pick to fill the need.

Saturday (April 25) will be a big day in the Mile High City for Broncos fans, but it will be even bigger for McDaniels as a new era begins in Denver. His first three months have been anything but quiet, so I wouldn’t expect anything less than lots of excitement come draft day.


Check back every day for more "On the Ticker!"

FSH: ON THE TICKER

April 18th, 2009 11:07pm PST

15 DAYS TO THE NFL DRAFT

NFL Draft Preview:
On The Ticker

On the Board: Buffalo Bills....
With the recent trading of offensive tackle Jason Peters, the Bills clearly have a decisive need to fill in this year’s draft and with two picks in the first round it’s certain they will.

With the eleventh pick in the draft the Bills may have to settle with the fourth or even fifth best tackle available in the draft. It’s not likely they’ll see Jason Smith, Eugene Monroe, or even Andre Smith make it this far, but Michael Oher (University of Mississippi) should still on the board. With a late first round pick still available, it makes sense for the Bills to grab one of this year’s best offensive lineman prospects.

(AP Photo)

Oher is an ideal 6’6” and 325-lbs at left tackle and with 34 consecutive starts in the SEC, he is more than ready to make the transition to the NFL. Oher could have made the move a year ago and was set to enter the 2008 draft as a top 20 pick, but a change of mind kept him at Ole Miss for his senior season.

The Bills recently signed free agent running back Dominic Rhodes to add some temporary help in the backfield. This will be one need they can address later in the draft, but defense will still remain a concern. There are some people pegging the Bills to target a top defensive prospect like Aaron Maybin (Penn State) or Everette Brown (Florida State).

With an added pick (number 28 overall) in the draft, it makes sense for head coach Dick Jauron to invest in his newly revamped offense (with T.O.). In 2009, this is the side of the ball where the Bills figure to make the most impact. The loss of Peters hurts, but at number 11 on April 25, the team can fill that void immediately.


Check back every day for more "On the Ticker!"

FSH: DAVID'S DAILY DIGEST

April 14th, 2009 11:30pm PST


David's Daily Digest
[My Take]

The countdown has already started and we are only 10 days away from "D" day. There's going to be plenty of rumors to note, news to follow, and plenty of fantasy to talk about as draft day gets closer. This week has been plenty active with no shortage of information to share. Here's "My take" on some of the recent happenings around the league....

My Take...

TE TONY GONZALEZ RUMORED TO BE LEAVING KC?
Surprisingly there are rumors floating around indicating that the 33-year old All-pro tight end could be traded. It sounds a little far-fetched considering the recent moves the team has made and the direction they seem to be headed. Gonzalez was the league’s best receiving tight end in 2008 and should be once again among the top options whether in KC or anywhere else.

WR MILES AUSTIN TO STAY PUT IN DALLAS
There was talk that the Jets had interest, but it sounds like the Cowboys made it clear that Miles fits into the team’s future plans. Miles has great speed and show big play ability last season, but disappeared down the stretch in 2008. Consistency will be the focus for the Cowboys 4th year receiver. With Williams and Crayton currently projected as the teams starters it will be an uphill battle for Miles to emerge as a reliable fantasy option, but he is expected to have a chance to compete for the number two spot.

QB ALEX SMITH DOES NOT LOOK SHARP IN OFFSEASON
The Niners may need to look to the draft for their future if Alex Smith is any indication of what the bay area has to look forward to. It may be a wee-bit too early to pass judgement just yet, but Smith has been with the team for four years now. If he doesn't start showing the team something soon, it's not likely they're ever going to see anything worth watching. Fantasy owners can consider him an unworthy fantasy option.

RB DESHAUN FOSTER STILL LOOKING FOR A HOME
The free agent running back is still looking for a place to play in 2009 and recent word has indicated the Bills could offer a temporary home. With Marshawn Lynch serving a three-game suspension to start 2009, the team is going to be pressed for help in the backfield.

WR TORRY HOLT STILL NOT SIGNED
With things seemng to be moving slowly in the Holt-camp, it doesn't seem likely that the former Ram will sign with anyone prior to the draft. With certain teams having very specific needs at the wideout position, depending on how they all fare in the draft will determine which teams may come calling after the draft. Teams like Jacksonville, Oakland, Cleveland (if they trade Edwards), and Cincinnati will be front runners to target some of the big name wideouts in the draft, but look for Chicago and Tennessee to consider a receiver later in the draft. Holt has lost his elite status in fantasy, but it's too early to know whether he can be a reliable option in 2009.

TE DUSTIN KELLER LOOKING TO STAY ON THE FIELD
The Jets tight end has plans to bulk up this offseason, so he can be an everydown player. This would be a big benefit to not only the Jets, but fantasy owners alike. Keller had a pretty good rookie campaign in 2008 with 48 receptions, including three for touchdowns. Keller is already expected to be a little better in 2009, but the more he plays, the more productive he'll be (and his numbers could prove it). Even if he's on the field more, he's still a low-end tight end option for now (he's only in his second year folks).

RB FELIX JONES APPEARS HEALTHY AGAIN
According to the sources close to the team, running back Felix Jones is running with his trademark explosiveness. Last November Jones had surgery to repair his turf toe and it now sounds like he's completely healthy and ready to resume a big role in 2009. Jones showed flashes of brilliance in 2008 and figures to be a very productive fantasy option, even sharing the stage with Marion Barber.

OT ORLANDO PACE LOCKED FOR THE NEXT TWO SEASONS
The Bears added a new quarterback (Jay Cutler) and have now locked up some protection for him, at least for the next two seasons. Pace is still a very good NFL offensive tackle, but at 33 his age and health will be the team's main concern. If he can stay injury free, the Bear's quarterback should have penty of time to make plays in the windy city.

OT JASON PETERS A DRAFT DAY TRADE CANDIDATE?
It sounds like the Bills and Peters are nowhere near getting a new deal signed. Peters is one of the leagues premiere talent at the offensive tackle position, with the Bills unable to agree to terms, it's likely he could be traded on draft day to one of those teams targeting an O-lineman. Expect the Bills to be one of those teams that shake things up come April 25th.


IDP Notes:

The clock keeps ticking and draft day keeps approaching. There's going to be plenty of movements as the days get shorter and closer to the April 25th draft. Here's some more activity to mull over as I offer "my take" and we football fans patiently wait for "D" day......

LB DERRICK JOHNSON TO MOVE INSIDE
The Chiefs are expected to move Johnson inside to play alongside of Zach Thomas. He'll be a key playmaker on defense and should be a solid IDP play in 2009. Over the past four seasons the Chief's linebacker has averaged 87 tackles per season and under Clancy Pendergast's new 3-4 defense he'll still be very productive.

CB LEON HALL AT RISK FOR SUSPENSION
The Bengal's best corner has managed to find some offseason trouble and could see the first half of his 2009 season at risk. There's been no word yet, but it almost certain given the circumstances (arrested for DUI). Hall has eight interceptions and has averaged 71 tackles in his first two seasons. He could be a risky pick in any fantasy drafts, but once he returns (if suspended), he'll be worth adding.

DB DONTE WHITNER THE LATEST NFL CASUALTY
It seems the NFL can't go more than a couple of days without someone making the news and not necessarily good. The Bills safety Donte Whitner was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. There have been some mixed messages coming from some of the reports, but it sounds like Whitner could be facing some sort of disciplinary action from the league when all is said and done. Whitner has been a very good fantasy option for IDP owners, but his stock will drop some if he misses time for suspension.

DL JASON TAYLOR LIKELY TO SIGN AFTER DRAFT
The former Redskin will likely stay a free agent until after the draft. He likely decided on a suitor based on how the Patriots and Dolphins draft. If he's offered only the league minimum in New England, expect to see Taylor return to Miami. Taylor is still athletic and a talent on the edge, but at 34 his tank is no longer full. If he signs with another team, fantasy owners could see his role limited as a pass rusher and see his value drop some.


Check back with "Your Fantasy Sports Home" for more Football 411.....