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Latest News |
| 2/11/2012 | Rey Maualuga, MLB, CIN |
Maualuga charged by policeNews: Bengals LB Rey Maualuga has officially been charged by Cincinnati police with misdemeanor assault stemming from a bar fight last weekend. This report comes from The Associated Press. The Bengals had no comment. Analysis: Maualuga is likely to be at least fined for this incident, especially after his 2010 DUI arrest cost him two game checks. He won't miss any playing time, though. Maualuga is just a low-end option in IDP formats heading into next season. |
| 2/11/2012 | Hines Ward, WR, PIT |
Report: Steelers to cut ties with WardNews: NFL.com reports that the Steelers are not expected to bring back receiver Hines Ward for 2012. This news comes according to NFL Network's Jason La Canfora. "He has one year left on his deal worth $4 million," said La Canfora. "According to my sources, he won't be back there. So that's $4 million off the books." Analysis: Ward has said he'd be open to taking a pay cut, but it sounds like Pittsburgh is ready to just cut ties with him. Ward would be a No. 4 WR and that means he'd likely have to play on special teams, which he likely would not want. Ward will have little Fantasy value entering 2012, that is for sure. |
| 2/11/2012 | Kevin Faulk, RB, NE |
Faulk contemplating retirementNews: New England RB Kevin Faulk is contemplating retirement after being a healthy inactive for the Super Bowl loss to the Giants, reports the Boston Globe. "That morning, when I got the word that I wasn’t going to dress . . . wow," Faulk said. “I went in the room, cried a little bit, because 75 percent of me knew that this could be my last game playing, not playing, just dressing. If I dress, there could be that chance that I could play. So that really crushed me a whole lot. Went into my room, read my Bible, read so many different Scriptures, so many different chapters in the Bible, until it was time to go to the stadium. [I took] my exit physical after the game and the trainers give me a big hug and that’s when I knew, like ‘Wow, that might be it'." Analysis: Faulk was drafted in 1999 and the 35-year-old RB is a member of New England's 50th anniversary team. He didn't actually declare himself retired, leaving the door slightly ajar on his 14th NFL season. Faulk might finish his career with 31 total touchdowns, 15 receiving and 16 rushing. He had a solid career, but isn't a recommended Fantasy option if he does return next year. |
| 2/10/2012 | Rob Gronkowski, TE, NE |
Gronkowski has ankle surgeryNews: The Boston Herald reports that Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski underwent successful surgery Friday to fix his ailing ankle. The surgery was an arthroscopic procedure to clean out the ankle. Gronkowski played on a high-ankle sprain in Super Bowl XLVI, battling ligament damage to make two catches for 26 yards. The estimate is that it’s a 10-week recovery. That should allow him to be ready by mid-April, possibly for mini-camp. Analysis: Continue to monitor what happens with Gronkowski this offseason, but he should be fine for the start of the 2012 season. Consider Gronkowski the No. 1 TE heading into the season. We can see Gronkowski being drafted as a Top 15 pick in all leagues, but it's a safer option to take him toward the end of Round 2 or beginning of Round 3 in all formats. |
| 2/10/2012 | Reggie Wayne, WR, IND |
Wayne unsure of futureNews: Reggie Wayne told ESPN that while he'd like to stay with the Colts, he's just not sure if they want him. Wayne is scheduled to be a free agent this offseason and understands that his time might be over in Indy after 11 years. "I have been there 11 years and I would prefer to end my career a Colt. However, in due time those feelings could subside," he said. "I haven't heard anything from them yet, so maybe I am not as important on the chain of command as I should be. But either way, I'm cool. I have nothing bad to say about the Colts. ... My phone hasn't rung yet. It's only fair I worry about number 87 first. When I'm signed, then I can weigh in more." Analysis: Wayne had a mostly horrible season thanks in big part to Peyton Manning being on the sideline. He caught 75 passes for 960 yards and four touchdowns, three coming in the final six weeks of the year. We don't think his 2011 is indicative of a slow-down in his game, but uncertainty about who he'll catch passes from and what his role will be keeps him from being a receiver we can get excited about. For now consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR worth a mid-round pick. |
| 2/10/2012 | Peyton Manning, QB, IND |
Differing views on PeytonNews: There are two differing reports on Colts QB Peyton Manning as the saga continues early this offseason in his recovery from missing this past season from neck surgery. CBSSports.com NFL Insider Mike Freeman reports that there remain a handful of team personnel men who have serious doubts he will ever play again or at the very least will miss most of next season. But, according to NFL.com, former Colts vice chairman Bill Polian, who was fired in early January, said he believes Manning will be fine in 2012 after he last saw Manning throw in late December. "It's marked (improvement) from where he was back in September," Polian said. "He threw it accurately, he threw it with a good, tight spiral, and he threw it with velocity. Generally, he looked like a pretty confident quarterback out there." Polian also indicated that Manning was able to make a variety of throws and throw across his body, which differs from a report on NFL Network earlier this week. Polian said that Manning's recovery is "coming, but coming slowly. But, nonetheless, its making progress." Analysis: The bottom line with Manning is until the public sees him throw or work in practice we won't know where he's at in his recovery. The Colts also have to make a decision on his contract or else he can sign with a new team, with Arizona, Miami and Washington the likely suitors. If healthy, Manning will remain a No. 1 Fantasy QB no matter where he plays, but he has to prove that his neck is 100 percent. Continue to monitor what happens with Manning, and hopefully he can resume his career without any problems. |
| 2/10/2012 | Fred Jackson, RB, BUF |
Jackson cleared, contract comingNews: Fred Jackson has been cleared to return to football activities for a couple of weeks following a broken fibula, but the good news for him doesn't stop there. The official team website reports that Jackson has been promised by team GM Buddy Nix that he will receive a contract extension, with the timeline set for before the 2012 season. Jackson is slated to be in a contract year as it stands now, but a new deal would change that. "Fred and I have talked," said Nix. "We want to extend Fred. I'd like for Fred to finish his career as a Bill. He's meant a lot to us. I've got great respect for him. We do want Fred back and we do intend to try to work out a deal with him. I've told him that. What we said is what we're going to do." Analysis: Jackson told the site that he's ready to get started in 2012 after missing the last six games of the season with a broken leg. While he was sidelined, C.J. Spiller stepped up and put some good moves on the field, complicating the Buffalo running back situation heading into the new year. Chances are the Bills will lean on Jackson as they have been, but Spiller could take a bigger share of the run-game workload than in the past, and that could put a cap on what Jackson is capable of doing. He's also 31 years old but doesn't have the wear-and-tear that typically comes with rushers over 30. If the Bills extend Jackson then it will be clear that he's a part of their future and a potential 15-touch-per-game back. If not, he'll be in a contract year and could play well in hopes of cashing in after next season. Either way he represents a solid value as a No. 2 Fantasy RB worth a pick between late Round 3 and early Round 5. |
| 2/10/2012 | Lavelle Hawkins, WR, TEN |
Hawkins gets three-year dealNews: The Tennessean reports Friday that the Titans have agreed to terms on a contract extension for WR Lavelle Hawkins, who had his best season in 2011. He had 47 catches for 470 yards and one touchdown. Analysis: Hawkins has minimal Fantasy value heading into 2012, especially if Kenny Britt (knee) returns at 100 percent. Keep an eye on what happens with the Titans receiving corps, but ignore Hawkins on Draft Day in most leagues. |
| 2/10/2012 | Kenny Britt, WR, TEN |
Britt 'working hard'News: The Sports Xchange reports that new Titans GM Ruston Webster said WR Kenny Britt, who suffered a torn ACL in September and had surgery in early October, should return in time for training camp in 2012. He said Britt appears to be a fast healer and is ahead of schedule in his recovery. "Kenny has been working hard and he's coming fast, probably even a little faster than I thought he would. So I'm real happy about that," he said. "We expect to have him out there for training camp. The good thing about his injury, is there is a good thing, is it happened early, and he's a very strong young and bounces back very quickly. We're hoping and planning to have him back for training camp." Analysis: Britt is expected to make a full recovery in time for the start of the 2012 season, and hopefully he can come into training camp in shape. We consider Britt a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR when healthy, and he is worth drafting with a mid-round pick if his knee proves to be 100 percent. |
| 2/10/2012 | Kevin Smith, RB, DET |
Smith wants return to LionsNews: According to mlive.com, impending free agent RB Kevin Smith would like to return to the Lions in 2012. Smith, 25, re-signed with Detroit last November and had four starts in seven games. He finished the regular season with 72 carries for 356 yards and four touchdowns, plus had 22 receptions for 179 yards and three scores. "In every interview that I've done, even though I'm a free agent, I've referred to the team and me as us," Smith said. "I'm on the Lions roster in my opinion until I'm not on the Lions roster. That says it all." Analysis: Smith is a former third-round selection by Detroit in 2008. He showed promise as a rookie, gaining 976 yards and scoring eight touchdowns on 238 carries. He started 13 games in 2009 before suffering a season-ending injury to his left knee. He rushed for 747 yards and four touchdowns prior to his injury. Smith was phased out of the offense with the arrival of Jahvid Best in 2010. Detroit decided not to make him an offer when he became a restricted free agent after that season. After Best sustained a season-ending concussion last season, Detroit re-signed Smith. We'll find out if he can return to the Lions, who also have second-year RB Mikel Leshoure, who also is recovering from a season-ending Achilles tendon injury sustained in the preseason. Keep an eye on what happens with Smith, but he should only be drafted with a late-round pick if he's back in Detroit. |
| 2/10/2012 | Mike Tolbert, RB, SD |
Tolbert would stay with ChargersNews: The Chargers official team website reports that impending free agent RB Mike Tolbert would like to remain in San Diego in 2012. “I would love to be here, but I’ve got to weigh my options and do what’s best for my family,” Tolbert said. Analysis: Tolbert played well in 2011 in tandem with Ryan Mathews. He had 121 carries for 490 yards and eight touchdowns and caught 54 passes for 433 yards and two touchdowns. He now has 21 touchdowns in his past two seasons and has done a nice job for Fantasy owners scoring. We'll find out where he plays in 2012, but he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy RB on Draft Day and is worth taking with a mid-round pick. |
| 2/10/2012 | Dennis Pitta, TE, BAL |
High expectations ahead for PittaNews: The Ravens official team website reports that Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta more than filled the shoes of departed longtime TE Todd Heap. In their first season splitting the workload, they combined to catch 94 passes for 933 yards and eight touchdowns. Those are better numbers than any of Heap’s 10 seasons in Baltimore in all three categories. Now Ravens Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron only sees more production ahead out of his two young tight ends. “Those two are right on track in their development and we expect big years out of both of them next year,” Cameron said. Analysis: Pitta finished the season with 40 catches for 405 yards and three touchdowns. He projects as a No. 2 Fantasy TE in 2012, and he is only worth drafting with a late-round pick in deeper leagues. His value would be higher if he didn't split time with Dickson, but Pitta could be considered a bye-week replacement next year if he starts out the season playing well. |
| 2/10/2012 | Ed Dickson, TE, BAL |
Cameron counting on DicksonNews: The Ravens official team website reports that Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta more than filled the shoes of departed longtime TE Todd Heap. In their first season splitting the workload, they combined to catch 94 passes for 933 yards and eight touchdowns. Those are better numbers than any of Heap’s 10 seasons in Baltimore in all three categories. Now Ravens Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron only sees more production ahead out of his two young tight ends. “Those two are right on track in their development and we expect big years out of both of them next year,” Cameron said. Analysis: Dickson finished the season with 54 catches for 528 yards and five touchdowns. He projects as a No. 2 Fantasy TE in 2012, and he is only worth drafting with a late-round pick in deeper leagues. His value would be higher if he didn't split time with Pitta, but Dickson could be considered a bye-week replacement next year if he starts out the season playing well. |
| 2/10/2012 | Vincent Jackson, WR, SD |
Chargers will bid on JacksonNews: According to NFL.com, the Chargers will make a big push to sign impending free agent WR Vincent Jackson. Jackson has maintained his preference is to stay in San Diego despite a relationship with the front office that has been acrimonious in the past. The Chargers aren’t expected to use the franchise tag on Jackson and sound open to trying to work out a long-term deal. But the Chargers likely won't be the highest bidder for Jackson, and he could land with a new team. Jackson earned $11.4 million during the 2011 season under the franchise tag, a figure that is expected to increase to $13.7 million this offseason. The report said Jackson could exceed $10 million per season over five seasons. Analysis: With teams such as the Bears, Jaguars, Buccaneers and Rams desperate for receiving help, chances are Jackson could pick up a huge deal and leave San Diego. The big fella wasn't very consistent in 2011; While he finished with 1,106 yards and nine touchdowns, he had eight or fewer Fantasy points (standard scoring) in 10 of 16 games. To be fair, injuries limited him in some games but that's been happening to him for a couple of years now. There's some concern that if he gets a big contract that he could lose his motivation to play well and could piece together another season where he'll be great for one game and horrible for the next two. He's fine as a No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick starting in Round 4, though that's subject to change depending on who's throwing to him. |
| 2/10/2012 | Stanford Routt, CB, OAK |
Raiders send Routt outNews: Less than one year ago, Al Davis made Stanford Routt one of the cornerstones of the Oakland Raiders defense with a lavish contract that kept him from free agency. Routt became the first player casualty under the new regime with the Raiders, released on Thursday just one year into a $54.5 million, five-year contract, ending his seven-year tenure in Oakland as the team heads in a new direction. Analysis: Routt has played 110 games with 53 starts since being drafted in the second round by Oakland in 2005. He became a starter his third season before falling behind Chris Johnson on the depth chart in 2008-09. He worked his way back into the starting lineup in 2010 and was Oakland's top cornerback last season when he set career highs with four interceptions and 15 passes defensed. He's not productive enough to warrant use in Fantasy play. |
| 2/9/2012 | Wes Welker, WR, NE |
Welker set to get franchise tagNews: Wes Welker is expected to get the franchise tag from the Patriots before the start of free agency, according to the Boston Globe. The report adds that things could turn ugly between Welker and the team including a holdout potentially going as long as possible. Welker played big in his contract year, catching 122 passes for a career-best 1,569 yards and career-high nine touchdowns in 2011. Analysis: We'd be shocked if Welker wasn't signed up in time for training camp -- he's been entrenched in the Patriots system for years and understands his role on the team and how the team operates. Welker will be 31 years old by the time the season starts, however as long as he remains in the Patriots’ offense he has to be considered a top-notch Fantasy option. Consider taking him by the third round in all Fantasy drafts. |
| 2/9/2012 | Plaxico Burress, WR, NYJ |
Report: Plax wants to play for PhillyNews: Plaxico Burress told Howard Eskin of 94 WIP SportsRadio in Philadelphia that he "wants to play for Eagles. Badly!" Eskin posted the news on his Twitter account, saying he spoke to him at the Super Bowl, and later posted that he thinks that the "Eagles will think about" signing him. Burress recently commented on his year with the Jets to the New York Post, failing to elaborate on any comments and seeming uninterested in staying with them. Analysis: Though he did score eight touchdowns in 2011, three came in one game and his supporting stats weren't exactly stellar (45 catches for 612 yards and a 13.6 average). Burress' situation is sure to change this offseason and his value will swing a little bit based on where he plays. But frankly he's no better than a good reserve receiver worth carrying for bye-week use during the 2012 season. Grab him with a middle- to late-round pick. |
| 2/9/2012 | Victor Cruz, WR, NYG |
Cruz wants raiseNews: The Sports Xchange reports that WR Victor Cruz became a star this season for the Giants, and now he wants to be paid like a star. Cruz, who made $405,000 in 2011 after signing with the Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2010, won the Vizio Top Value Performer Award this season as the NFL player who did the most for the least money. He's ready to say goodbye to the "least money" part of that sentence. "I feel like after my performance this year, I deserve to be paid more money at this point," Cruz said. "But that's something I'll let my agents and people take care of and I'll just go out there and play the game." Cruz led the Giants with 82 catches for a franchise-record 1,536 yards during the regular season, then added 21 more catches for 269 yards and a touchdown in the playoffs. That touchdown came in the first quarter of Super Bowl XLVI against the Patriots, as he caught a 2-yard pass from Eli Manning to make it 9-0 New York. "I want to remain a Giant for a very long time," he said. Analysis: We hope Cruz and the Giants come to an agreement with his contract because we would also like to see him remain with the Giants for a long time. He should be the No. 2 target for Manning in 2012 behind Hakeem Nicks, and the Giants could part ways with free agent WR Mario Manningham. Cruz should be considered a potential Top 10 Fantasy WR on Draft Day, and he is worth drafting as early as Round 3 in all leagues. |
| 2/9/2012 | Chad Ochocinco, WR, NE |
Ochocinco going back to JohnsonNews: The Sports Xchange reports that Patriots WR Chad Ochocinco has decided to eighty-six his name change after less than four years. Ochocinco announced via his Twitter account that he will change his name July 4, responding to a fan who claimed to have five of the star's jerseys on his wall. "Take them down," Ochocino tweeted. "I'll be Johnson on July 4th." Ochocinco caught 15 passes for 276 yards during the 2011 season, his first with New England after 10 seasons with the Bengals. He caught one pass during the postseason, a 21-yard reception during Super Bowl XLVI. Analysis: We hope the name change can help Ochocinco, but his Fantasy value will likely be limited heading into 2012. The Patriots are unlikely to bring him back following his down year, and it's unknown if a team will give him another shot as a starter at 34. Keep an eye on what develops for Ochocinco (or Johnson), but don't plan on drafting him in the majority of leagues. |
| 2/9/2012 | Colt McCoy, QB, CLE |
McCoy over concussionNews: The Sports Xchange reports that Browns QB Colt McCoy will be ready to play in the 2012 season. Team president Mike Holmgren said in a radio interview that McCoy has recovered from the helmet-to-helmet hit he received from Steelers LB James Harrison in December. "He passed all his tests and he's feeling fine," Holmgren said, "and he has no residual effects from the play." The Browns, who finished fourth in the AFC North at 4-12, have two first-round picks in this April's NFL Draft, including the fourth pick overall. The team is expected to bring in competition for McCoy at quarterback this offseason, possibly a top draft pick like Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III of Baylor. Whatever the situation, Holmgren expects McCoy to be ready to compete. "I know that no one will work harder this offseason than Colt McCoy," Holmgren said. Analysis: McCoy, 25, completed 265 of 463 passes for 2733 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2011, his second season in the league. He missed the final three games of the season after the Harrison hit, which took place in the midst of a 14-3 Steelers victory in Pittsburgh on December 8. We expect the Browns to have competition for McCoy, and he has minimal Fantasy value. Ignore him in all leagues on Draft Day. |
| 2/9/2012 | Terrell Owens, WR, CIN |
T.O. isn't going awayNews: Terrell Owens has officially signed on to be a player and co-owner of the Allen Wranglers of the Indoor Football League. Owens, 38, did not play in the NFL in 2011 after having surgery for a torn ACL in April. "It was an opportunity for myself and my family." Owens said of signing with the IFL. "It's a way for myself to keep in shape. I haven't retired from the NFL. I want to play a couple more years. I know I'm physically fit to play the game still." Analysis: Unless you're in a Fantasy league for the IFL, Owens shouldn't be on your radar. It wouldn't surprise us if he landed a one-year deal before the start of training camp with a team desperate for receiving help, but because he's almost 40 and now a legitimate injury risk, we wouldn't draft him outside the deepest of leagues. |
| 2/9/2012 | Chiefs, TQB KC, |
Redskins checking out QB Orton?News: Kyle Orton might be next on the Redskins' radar if they cannot sign Peyton Manning, Comcast SportsNet reports. Orton was considered by the Redskins when he was waived by the Broncos but the team thought there could be friction between him and Rex Grossman, so they didn't claim him. Orton would be a cost-effective alternative to Manning, though he's not as good as Manning. Analysis: Orton totaled nine touchdowns with nine interceptions with the Broncos and Chiefs in 2011, passing for 1,758 yards. Orton's been a low-end No. 2 passer for years and hasn't delivered huge totals, so owners should be at the point where he'd be no better than a No. 3 passer if he were to land a starting job this summer. |
| 2/9/2012 | Britt Davis, WR, NE |
Pats ink players to new dealsNews: The Patriots signed LB Markell Carter, WR Britt Davis, DE Aaron Lavarias, LB Mike Rivera, WR Tiquan Underwood and DB Ross Ventrone to future contracts. Analysis: None of the players have much of a chance of being Fantasy superstars. Leave them all off of rosters for now. |
| 2/9/2012 | Tiquan Underwood, WR, NE |
Pats re-sign UnderwoodNews: Days after losing Super Bowl XLVI, the Patriots re-signed WR Tiquan Underwood to a futures contract. Underwood was released by the Patriots on the day before the Super Bowl. He played in five games, catching three passes for 30 yards in the regular season for New England. Analysis: Underwood needs some work to improve his game, then he needs playing time to show off his hard work. Until this happens, he'll only be known for his wild hair cut and for being cut on Super Bowl Eve. |
| 2/9/2012 | Arnaz Battle, WR, PIT |
Steelers begin roster tinkeringNews: In preparation for the new league year, the Steelers terminated the contracts of CB Bryant McFadden and WR Arnaz Battle and waived TE Miguel Chavis and LB Erik Clanton. The team did sign CB Myron Rolle, WR Juamorris Stewart and LB Brandon Hicks. Analysis: Though the release of McFadden is mildly surprising and the signing of Rolle is mildly intriguing, the reality is that none of these moves should impact Fantasy owners in 2012. |
| 2/8/2012 | Alex Smith, QB, SF |
49ers want to keep SmithNews: According to CSN Bay Area, 49ers QB Alex Smith is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent this offseason, but it appears highly unlikely he will leave San Francisco. 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh has made it clear he wants Smith re-signed. "We're all in lockstep as an organization that Alex Smith is our guy. It's well-documented. You saw the way he played this year," Harbaugh said on a local TV show in the Bay Area. "(He is a) tremendous leader on our football team. There's Alex and there are other guys, too, that are high priorities. We want our guys. There are guys who play like 49ers, and what they do is they play their hearts out for our team. So Alex and others, (it's) going to be a high-priority to get those guys signed." Analysis: Smith, who turns 28 in May, posted career-best numbers in 2011 with 61.4 percent completions, 3,144 yards passing and a 90.7 passer rating. He threw 17 touchdown passes and just five interceptions while starting all 16 games. More important, the 49ers won the NFC West with a 13-3 record and advanced to the NFC Championship Game, where they lost 20-17 to the New York Giants in overtime. Keep an eye on what happens with Smith this offseason, but he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into 2012 and is only worth drafting with a late-round pick. |
| 2/8/2012 | Santonio Holmes, WR, NYJ |
Jets hang on to HolmesNews: According to multiple reports, the Jets are now obligated to pay WR Santonio Holmes $15.25 million over the next two seasons, all but guaranteeing him a spot on the roster this year and potentially next year. His 2012 salary of $7.75M was already guaranteed, but by being on the roster on Feb. 8, 2012, his 2013 salary of $7.5M is also locked in. There was some discussion that Holmes wouldn't be retained after finishing the season on the bench and causing a rift with QB Mark Sanchez. Analysis: Holmes caught 51 passes for 654 yards (a career-worst 12.8 avg.) and eight touchdowns last year, posting 10 or more Fantasy points (standard scoring) in five games. Holmes hasn't been a stud since arriving in New York and with more guaranteed coin in his piggy bank, he might not ever reach the numbers he had in Pittsburgh in 2009 (1,248 yards). We view Holmes as no better than a No. 3 Fantasy WR. |
| 2/8/2012 | DeSean Jackson, WR, PHI |
Report: Eagles to franchise DeSeanNews: NFL Network reports that the Eagles intend to franchise WR DeSean Jackson, but not necessarily keep him. By franchising Jackson, he can sign a one-year tender for a set salary for 2012, but the team could move him in a deal for what they deem fair compensation. If no one wants to trade for Jackson, the Eagles would then keep him and consider his one-year deal as a "prove it" type contract. Analysis: The small but speedy receiver caught 58 passes for 961 yards with four touchdowns in what was expected to be a big season, but minor injuries combined with a poor attitude contributed to some weak totals. Jackson is the definition of a boom-or-bust Fantasy player: He had at least 11 Fantasy points in six games in 2011 with four points or less in seven games. Consistency isn't Jackson's strong suit but he could be at his best if he stays in Philadelphia with a high-powered offense that he's familiar with. We think owners will begin considering Jackson with a pick starting in Round 6 this summer. |
| 2/8/2012 | Fred Davis, TE, WAS |
Davis could get franchise tagNews: According to the NFL Network, the Redskins will likely use the franchise tag on TE Fred Davis, who is an impending free agent. Davis, who missed the final four games this season for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, will likely be paid a little more than $5 million if he does receive the franchise tag. Analysis: Davis had a solid season in 2011 (59 catches for 759 yards and three touchdowns) before his four-game suspension for failing multiple drug tests ended his year. We hope Davis will return to the Redskins, and he would be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE if he is back in Washington. Keep an eye on his offseason, but Davis would be worth drafting with a late-round pick in all leagues. |
| 2/8/2012 | Jake Ballard, TE, NYG |
Ballard tore ACL in Super BowlNews: Days after it was reported that Giants TE Jake Ballard tore his left meniscus in Super Bowl XLVI, the team announced that he also tore his ACL. Ballard walked off the field under his own power after apparently suffering the injury while running during a play. He attempted to test the injury along the Giants sideline, but collapsed and was taken to the locker room on a cart. Analysis: Ballard emerged in 2011 as a good replacement for Kevin Boss, but his stats weren't great. With the rehab for a torn ACL slotted at a minimum of nine months, it wouldn't surprise us if Ballard was placed on IR for the entire 2012 season. He shouldn't be a part of your draft plans. |
| 2/8/2012 | Johnny Knox, WR, CHI |
Knox's recovery going slowNews: According to ESPN.com, Bears WR Johnny Knox's recovery from back surgery could take longer than expected. Knox underwent a vertebral fusion procedure and will have to wear a back brace until mid-March. The timeline for recovery could extend beyond six months, according to multiple sources. Analysis: Knox finished with 37 receptions for 727 yards and two touchdowns this season and hopefully will be able fully healthy heading into 2012. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his recovery over the next few months. Knox can be considered a viable low-end Fantasy WR heading into next year. |
| 2/8/2012 | Colin Kaepernick, QB, SF |
Kaepernick says he'll get 'fair shot'News: 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick looked back on his rookie season with the Reno Gazette-Journal and suggested that he'll have an opportunity to start in 2012. "Someone told me Coach Harbaugh said it's an open job. It will be earned. I think they'll give me a fair shot," Kaepernick said. Analysis: Kaepernick completed 3 of 5 passes for 35 yards in 2011, not getting much playing time while Alex Smith led the 49ers offense. Smith is a free agent this offseason but all signs point to him returning, which would probably give him a huge edge in starting. Don't expect Kaepernick to be a Fantasy factor in 2012. |
| 2/8/2012 | Jay Cutler, QB, CHI |
Cutler happy with new QB coachNews: Jay Cutler has a familiar face joining him on the sidelines in Chicago, and it's one he's had some big stats with. The Bears hired Jeremy Bates to be their quarterbacks coach, just two years after offering him their offensive coordinator position. The two spent three seasons together in Denver with Bates as his quarterbacks coach. Analysis: Things are looking up for Cutler: Mike Tice is the team's offensive coordinator and play-caller, and he's planning to lean on the no-huddle approach to take advantage of Cutler's skills. Adding Bates will only make Cutler more comfortable as he has a guy he will have faith and trust in working with. Now if Cutler could get some upgraded receivers and maybe some help along his O-line, he'd be in business. Cutler will be drafted as a No. 2 option but he has some potential to be a big stat producer. He's well worth a middle- to late-round pick in drafts this summer. |
| 2/8/2012 | Patrick Turner, WR, NYJ |
Jets keep WR TurnerNews: Citing NFLPA records, the Jets have signed WR Patrick Turner to a one-year deal according to the Newark Star-Ledger. Analysis: Turner has been on and off the Jets roster and isn't a consistent contributor. He's not worth owning in Fantasy at this time. |
| 2/7/2012 | Jamaal Charles, RB, KC |
Charles' recovery going wellNews: According to ESPN.com, Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles is expected to participate in offseason workouts after missing all but the first two weeks of this past season with a knee injury. Charles suffered a torn ACL in Week 2 against the Lions when his cleat got caught in the turf. He is expected to make a full recovery for the start of the 2012 season. Analysis: Charles enters 2012 with the chance to return as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB. Kansas City has a great schedule, and the Chiefs just hired Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator. Daboll is coming off consecutive seasons of doing a solid job with his rushing attack with Peyton Hillis in Cleveland in 2010 and Reggie Bush in Miami this year. Plan on drafting Charles as early as Round 2 in all leagues. |
| 2/7/2012 | DeMarco Murray, RB, DAL |
Murray 'ahead of schedule'News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Cowboys RB DeMarco Murray said rehab from his injured right ankle is going ahead of schedule. Murray had his season ended Dec. 11 after fracturing his ankle in a 37-34 loss to the Giants. "I've been working hard to strengthen my ankle," Murray said. "I'm definitely ahead of schedule. I think I start running on [Feb. 6] actually, so I'm excited to get back there." Analysis: Murray has the chance to be a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into 2012, and we expect him to be 100 percent healthy with his ankle for the start of the season. Plan on drafting Murray as early as Round 3 in all leagues, and hopefully he can give you 16 games of quality production. |
| 2/7/2012 | Knowshon Moreno, RB, DEN |
Report: Moreno arrested for DUINews: KDVR-TV reports that Broncos RB Knowshon Moreno was arrested and charged with drunk driving on Feb. 1. Driving a Bentley with a license plate that read "SAUCED" Moreno was pulled over for speeding in a construction zone. Police administered a sobriety test, which he failed, and he was subsequently arrested. Moreno had 179 rush yards, 101 receiving yards and one touchdown catch in seven games with the Broncos in 2011 before tearing his ACL, missing the rest of the season. Analysis: Moreno has a lot to overcome before being the prized rusher we've been drafting him as the past three seasons. He's not a lock to start the season on-time because of his knee injury, and his legal problems only cloud his future. There's actually some speculation that the Broncos will not keep him. We wouldn't spend a valuable pick on Moreno right now. |
| 2/7/2012 | Ben Roethlisberger, QB, PIT |
Big Ben's new playcaller: Todd HaleyNews: The Steelers signed ex-Chiefs head coach Todd Haley to serve as their offensive coordinator, replacing Bruce Arians. Haley was fired as the Chiefs' coach last season after going 5-8 and falling out of serious contention for the playoffs. Not only did Haley help direct the Chiefs to the AFC West title in 2010, but he was also the offensive playcaller for the Cardinals when they went to the Super Bowl against the Steelers in the 2008 season. Haley is the son of former Steelers director of player personnel Dick Haley and a former ball boy for the Steelers. Analysis: Haley is a creative coach who will lean heavily on his best weapons, but he's also tough to get along with. He's had a number of conflicts with players in Kansas City and Arizona and isn't guaranteed to get along with Roethlisberger the same way former offensive coordinator Bruce Arians did. Still, you have to think that Haley will put Big Ben in a position to win given the weapons he has around him in Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. Big Ben slots into Fantasy drafts as a low-end No. 1 QB worth a pick starting in Round 6. |
| 2/7/2012 | Matt Cassel, QB, KC |
Daboll likes CasselNews: New Chiefs offensive coordinator Brian Daboll said Tuesday he is looking forward to working with QB Matt Cassel. "I have a lot of confidence in Matt Cassel," Daboll said. "I've watched him on tape and I know the player." Cassel is expected to start for the Chiefs in 2012, although he could face some competition for the job. Analysis: Cassel was a tremendous disappointment in 2011, playing in only nine games before breaking his hand. He tallied 1,713 yards with 10 touchdowns and nine interceptions. His completion percentage was slightly improved from the year before but was still below 60 pct. and his yards per attempt dipped over half a yard from 2010. Depending on what his receiving corps looks like in 2012, figure Cassel to be an afterthought in Fantasy drafts. Simply put, there are far too many other quarterbacks worthy of a draft pick than Cassel. |
| 2/7/2012 | Ricky Williams, RB, BAL |
Ricky officially retiresNews: RB Ricky Williams announced Tuesday that he is retiring from the NFL. Williams, 34, recently completed his 11th NFL season and first with the Ravens. He appeared in 147 career games (83 starts), posting 2,431 carries for 10,009 rushing yards and 66 touchdowns. The 5-10, 230-pounder added 342 receptions for 2,606 receiving yards and eight touchdowns during his career. Williams amassed five 1,000-yard rushing seasons. “The NFL has been an amazing page in this chapter of my life,” Williams said. “I pray that all successive adventures offer me the same potential for growth, success and most importantly, fun. I want to thank all my fans, teammates, coaches and supporters for the strength they've given me to overcome so much." Analysis: Williams, who served as the Ravens’ primary backup running back in 2011, finished the year with 108 carries for 444 rushing yards and two touchdowns. In the regular season finale at Cincinnati, he became just the 26th player in NFL history to rush for 10,000 career yards. We'll find out if Williams will remain retired based on his history, but he should not be drafted in any Fantasy leagues in 2012. |
| 2/7/2012 | Rian Lindell, K, BUF |
Lindell stays with the BillsNews: The Buffalo Bills have re-signed kicker Rian Lindell, who was eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next month. He returns for a 10th season in Buffalo, where he is the team's second leading scorer with 878 career points. Lindell had played in 180 straight games before being sidelined by a season-ending shoulder injury in November. Analysis: Lindell has made 57 of 69 field goals over his last three seasons (40 games) but is 3 of 8 from 50-plus yards. If the Bills' offense can add a wrinkle or two before the start of the season, Fantasy owners might be convinced to spend a final-round pick on Lindell. |
| 2/7/2012 | Tony Moeaki, TE, KC |
Moeaki on target for returnNews: According to ESPN.com, Chiefs TE Tony Moeaki is expected to participate in offseason workouts after sustaining a knee injury during a preseason game this season. Moeaki was out all year with a torn ACL. Analysis: Moeaki will come into the 2012 season as a No. 2 Fantasy TE, but he has the chance to be low-end starter in deeper leagues and a great bye-week replacement if his knee is 100 percent. Keep an eye on his recovery, and he is someone to put on your radar once the season starts as long as he's healthy. |
| 2/7/2012 | Weslye Saunders, TE, PIT |
Report: Saunders suspended four gamesNews: At one point in time, TE Weslye Saunders was talked about as a potential first-round draft pick, but ultimately, a foot injury and a troubled reputation caused him to go unselected in 2010. He landed in Pittsburgh and started six of 16 games this season, catching four passes for 29 yards and a touchdown. Now, he’s apparently landed in more trouble, as Scout.com is reporting that Saunders has been suspended for the first four games of 2012. At this point, it’s unclear why Saunders has been suspended, but he’s had character concerns going back to his days at the University of South Carolina. During his senior year, he was suspended before the season began and then was kicked off the squad completely in mid-September 2010. Analysis: Saunders has minimal Fantasy value heading into 2012, but continue to monitor what develops. When healthy and active, he should not be owned in the majority of leagues. |
| 2/6/2012 | Deion Branch, WR, NE |
Branch 'pretty sure' he'll be backNews: WR Deion Branch said after the Patriots' Super Bowl XLVI loss that he intends to re-sign with the team this offseason. "This is where I want to be, this is where I want to retire," he told ESPN. "This is why I came back, for the opportunity to play in this game. I'm pretty sure I will be here in this position next year." Analysis: We're not as sure as Branch that he'll be back or at least playing the same amount of playing time as he has. He's a good receiver but isn't as fast as he once was. And though he and Tom Brady have a special relationship, Brady has other quality receivers to look forward to connecting with. Branch finished his 10th season with 702 yards and five touchdowns on 51 catches, effectively matching what he did in 11 games with the Patriots in 2010. We'll see what happens to Branch but he's appealing as a reserve Fantasy receiver and that's about it. |
| 2/6/2012 | Mario Manningham, WR, NYG |
Manningham ready for free agencyNews: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Giants WR Mario Manningham said that he's not sure where he will play in 2012. Manningham is an impending free agent this offseason after helping the Giants win Super Bowl XLVI. "I don't know where I'm going to end up," he said. "I'm not really thinking about that right now. All I'm thinking about is winning this game." He finished the Super Bowl with five catches for 73 yards on nine targets, and his 38-yard catch in the fourth quarter helped set up the Giants for the game-winning score. Analysis: Manningham, who was drafted by the Giants in the third round in 2008 out of Michigan, had a solid playoff run with three touchdowns. He also caught 39 passes for 523 yards and four touchdowns during the regular season. We could see Manningham leaving the Giants, which might be good for his Fantasy value depending on where he ends up. The Giants will be loaded at WR with Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz, and Manningham would be the No. 3 target at best. Keep an eye on where he ends up in 2012, but Manningham should only be drafted as a No. 3 Fantasy WR with a mid-round pick even if he returns to the Giants. |
| 2/5/2012 | Eli Manning, QB, NYG |
Manning a Super heroNews: Giants QB Eli Manning connected on 30 of his 40 passes for 296 yards and a touchdown during New York’s 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday. It was the second time this postseason Manning did not top 300 passing yards as he completed 75 percent of his attempts en route to claiming MVP honors for his effort. Manning, who did not throw an interception, hit WR Victor Cruz on a 2-yard touchdown pass during the first quarter for the game’s first score. Analysis: Manning picked apart the Patriots’ lowly pass defense and completed a pass to eight different Giants receivers. While he continued to show improved ball security, Manning was unable to push his streak of consecutive outings with multiple touchdown passes to five games, dating back to the regular season. Still, Manning displayed stronger decision-making throughout the past season and threw just 16 interceptions -- down from 25 in the 2010 campaign. Fantasy owners feel comfortable securing Eli as a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2012 drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Aaron Rodgers, QB, GB |
Rodgers captures MVP awardNews: Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers earned 48 of the possible 50 votes to win the 2011 Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award. Rodgers topped New Orleans QB Drew Brees in balloting by a nationwide panel of 50 media members who cover the NFL. The Packers star is the first Green Bay player honored since Brett Favre concluded a run of three straight seasons as MVP in 1997. “It means a lot to be recognized as a consistent player and contributing on my team,” Rodgers said. “I think it’s an award that relies on a player having the support of his teammates, obviously, guys blocking, guys running, guys catching, guys making plays. But I’m very honored to receive the award.” Analysis: Rodgers led the NFL in passing with a 122.5 rating built on 45 touchdown passes, six interceptions and a 68.3 completion percentage as the Packers went 15-1 and won the NFC North title. However, Green Bay lost to the Giants at home in its first playoff game as the team struggled to live up to the lofty expectations. But Rodgers still turned in a memorable regular season as he recorded at least three touchdown passes in a game 10 times. He is the third consecutive quarterback voted MVP, joining New England’s Tom Brady (2007, 2010) and Indianapolis’ Peyton Manning (2008, 2009). Fantasy owners should consider Rodgers with a top-five selection in all drafts for next season. |
| 2/5/2012 | Hakeem Nicks, WR, NYG |
Nicks sizzles in postseasonNews: Giants WR Hakeem Nicks finished with game highs in receptions (10) and yards (109) during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday night. Nicks topped the century mark for the third time in four playoff games as he averaged a stellar 10.9 yards per catch against the Patriots. He served as the go-to receiver for QB Eli Manning and was targeted a staggering 13 times, which represented a team best. Analysis: Nicks proved he doesn't need to practice to be effective. After being listed as questionable for Sunday's showdown because of a shoulder issue, Nicks cemented his status as an elite receiver with the dominating performance. Nicks finished with a whopping 28 catches and four touchdown receptions during New York's four-game playoff run. During the regular season, he collected a career-high 1,192 receiving yards and could surpass the 1,000-yard mark again next season. He should be one of the first receivers selected in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Tom Brady, QB, NE |
Brady unable to find the magic againNews: For the second time in as many Super Bowl appearances, Patriots QB Tom Brady was overshadowed by Giants QB Eli Manning's late-game heroics. Manning led his team on a go-ahead touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter, however he left just enough time for Brady to try to lead his team downfield. With 57 seconds remaining and his team needing a touchdown to win, Brady had Aaron Hernandez and Deion Branch drop early first-down passes that could have given them the momentum they needed to come from behind. In the end, Brady was forced to attempt a 51-yard Hail Mary pass as time ran out, which was almost brought in by Rob Gronkowski. Unfortunately, the ball was batted down and Brady would lose his second Super Bowl in five trips. He finished the game with 276 yards passing and two touchdowns, though he did throw a fourth-quarter interception in Giants territory that could cost the Patriots a shot at valuable insurance points. Analysis: Brady was typically terrific in the game, though the Giants’ tough pass rush made life a bit difficult for him, not to mention the costly drops by his teammates. Brady finished arguably the best season of his career with the Super Bowl loss. He put up a career-high in passing yardage, as he finished second in the league with 5,235 yards, the second-best single-season mark in league history. He added 39 touchdown passes to just 12 interceptions on the year as well. While he’ll be 35 years old when the 2012 season kicks off, Brady isn’t showing any signs of slowing down, and by all indications will have all of his familiar weapons in place. If he’s not the first quarterback taken in you draft, he won’t be around long, so plan on taking him by the end of the first round on Draft Day. |
| 2/5/2012 | Terrell Suggs, OLB, BAL |
Suggs secures defensive honorNews: Baltimore LB Terrell Suggs, the most dynamic player on the Ravens’ staunch defense, claimed the 2011 Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. On a team featuring longtime stars Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, Suggs stood out most for a nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the league. He earned 21 votes, seven more than Minnesota DL Jared Allen. “There is not a harder worker in football than Terrell Suggs,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. Analysis: Suggs had 70 tackles, including 14 sacks, and was a threat all over the field from his hybrid linebacker-end position. He also forced seven fumbles and had two interceptions. “That’s why when you sit back and watch him year after year, week after week, I am just proud to say that I love how he understands the game now,” Lewis said. Fantasy owners should target Suggs with an early-round selection again in 2012 IDP drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Saints, TQB NO, |
Brees breezes to awardNews: Drew Brees’ record-setting season earned the New Orleans quarterback the 2011 Associated Press NFL Offensive Player of the Year award -- the second time he's been honored with the prize in his prolific career. Brees, the 2008 top offensive player, received 43 votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the NFL. Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers earned the other seven votes. Analysis: Brees shattered Dan Marino’s 27-year-old mark by passing for 5,476 yards, and his 468 completions broke Peyton Manning’s 2010 record of 450. Brees finished the season completing 71.6 percent of his passes, breaking his own 2009 NFL record (70.6). He also surpassed 300 yards passing for seven straight games and 13 times during the season, both beating league marks he already held. “Our best is yet to come, not just for our team, but the league,” Brees said. Fantasy owners should consider Brees with a first-round pick in 2012 drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Lions, TQB DET, |
Stafford the comeback kidNews: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford claimed the 2011 Associated Press NFL Comeback Player of the Year award after beating out six other players who received votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members. Stafford fought through injuries his first two seasons, then threw for more than 5,000 yards in 2011 to lead Detroit to its first playoff berth in 12 years. He received 21 votes, six more than Cleveland LB D’Qwell Jackson. San Francisco QB Alex Smith finished third, followed by Carolina WR Steve Smith, Denver DL Elvis Dumervil, New England DL Andre Carter and Giants QB Eli Manning Analysis: Stafford not only had a great comeback year from shoulder and knee injuries in his first two pro seasons, but he was exceptional at leading comebacks in games. He helped Detroit become the first team in NFL history to rally and win four games after being down by at least 13 points, including 20-plus point comebacks at Dallas and Minnesota. He completed 63.5 percent of his passes for 5,038 yards -- only the fourth quarterback to go over 5,000 yards -- and 41 touchdowns. Fantasy owners should target him as a No. 1 QB option in 2012 drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Von Miller, OLB, DEN |
Defensive honor is Miller's timeNews: Denver LB Von Miller received 39 votes from a nationwide panel of 50 media members who regularly cover the NFL to claim the 2011 Associated Press NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. San Francisco LB Aldon Smith was second with 11 votes. Miller made 64 tackles and had 11 1/2 sacks despite missing one game and playing the last four contests with a cumbersome cast protecting his surgically repaired right thumb. “It’s special because you only get one rookie season,” Miller said. “You don’t get two tries at it. It’s really a one-and-done thing. That was probably the most special thing about it, you only get one shot to accomplish this feat.” Analysis: Miller, the No. 2 overall pick in the previous NFL Draft, sparked a defensive turnaround in Denver with his steady and sometimes spectacular play. He is the second Broncos player to win the award, joining Mike Croel (1991). And as good as Miller was this year, he promised he’ll be even better next year. “I have no doubt that I’ll be a totally different player next year,” Miller said. “It will be night and day.” Fantasy owners should look to a healthy Miller as a solid selection in the early rounds of IDP drafts for the 2012 campaign. |
| 2/5/2012 | Panthers, TQB CAR, |
Newton takes home top rookie prizeNews: Panthers QB Cam Newton was award the 2011 Associated Press NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award on Saturday. Newton set an NFL record for touchdowns rushing in a season by a quarterback with 14 and became the first player in league history to throw for 4,000 yards and rush for 500. He helped Carolina improve from 2-14 to 6-10, throwing for 21 touchdowns. Newton is the second straight No. 1 overall draft pick to take the honor in voting by a nationwide panel of 50 media who regularly cover the league. Rams QB Sam Bradford won it last year. Analysis: Newton is going to be a star in the NFL for many years, and Fantasy owners will reap the benefits. He should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into 2012, and he is worth drafting as early as Round 2 in all formats. Expect Newton to go off the board right after Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady. |
| 2/5/2012 | Ahmad Bradshaw, RB, NYG |
Bradshaw scores game-winning TDNews: Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw amassed 91 total yards from scrimmage and scored a touchdown during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday. Bradshaw, who finished with a game-high 72 yards on 17 carries, scampered into the end zone on a 6-yard run with 1:04 remaining in the fourth quarter to cap the scoring. He also added 19 yards on two receptions while being targeted three times. Analysis: As expected, Bradshaw did not let a persistent foot injury slow him down as he ran for 70-plus yards for the second game in a row. The fleet-footed back gained at least 60 yards in all four of the Giants' playoff games, but Sunday marked the first time he reached the end zone. Bradshaw missed some time during the regular season due to his foot issue, but should benefit from additional rest and is still undecided about having surgery. Fantasy owners should view him as a strong No. 2 Fantasy RB in drafts for the 2012 season. |
| 2/5/2012 | Brandon Jacobs, RB, NYG |
Jacobs limited in Super BowlNews: Giants RB Brandon Jacobs rushed nine times for 37 yards during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday night. Jacobs overcame a pair of lowly performances in his past two playoff games and averaged a quality 4.1 yards per attempt against the Patriots. He still remains the secondary option for the Giants behind RB Ahmad Bradshaw, who finished with a game-high 72 yards on 17 rush attempts. Analysis: After anticipating his tenure with the Giants was poised to come to an end, Jacobs said last week he believes he will stay with New York following his second Super Bowl title. However, his offensive production could affect that decision. Despite scoring seven touchdowns in the regular season, his yardage total decreased for the third consecutive year as he finished with 571 yards on 152 carries. He will be 30 years old by the start of training camp and should be considered a worthwhile selection in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Giants, DST NYG, |
Giants slow down BradyNews: After being shredded by New England QB Tom Brady for 342 yards passing and two touchdowns during the teams' previous meeting this season, the Giants defense was determined to have a better showing in Sunday's Super Bowl. Mission accomplished. New York held Brady to just 276 yards and only one touchdown pass early in the second half to capture a resounding 21-17 victory. The Giants harassed Brady throughout the game and registered a safety on the quarterback during the Patriots' first offensive possession. Analysis: New York reached Brady for two sacks Sunday -- both by DL Justin Tuck -- including one during the final possession of the game for New England. The Giants also recorded an interception late in the second half -- the fourth time Brady has been picked off during three games in the postseason. New York owns one of the most ferocious defensive lines in the NFL and notched 11 sacks in the final two weeks of the regular season to secure a playoff berth. Fantasy owners should look to the Giants as a quality No. 1 Fantasy DST for next season. |
| 2/5/2012 | Aaron Hernandez, TE, NE |
Hernandez’s big day not enoughNews: With fellow TE Rob Gronkowski limited with an ankle injury, the Patriots needed Aaron Hernandez to step up in the Super Bowl. Hernandez did his piece for the most part, as he led the team with eight catches and 67 yards and a third-quarter touchdown that put the team up by two scores. However he did have a costly drop on the final drive of the game, as the Patriots tried to come back from four-point deficit. They would wind up losing 21-17, as a Hail Mary attempt in the final seconds intended for Hernandez was batted down in the end zone. Analysis: Hernandez finished the postseason with two touchdown catches as the Patriots’ number three option in the passing game. That comes after a regular season that saw him bring in 79 catches for 910 yards and seven touchdowns, numbers that would normally rank among the best at the tight end position, even if he was overshadowed by his teammate Gronkowski. Despite the fact that he’s not even the most valuable on his own roster, Fantasy owners should still look at Hernandez as a No. 1 Fantasy tight end for the 2012 season. Consider him a middle-round pick on Draft Day. |
| 2/5/2012 | Danny Woodhead, RB, NE |
Woodhead scores earlyNews: Patriots RB Danny Woodhead did most of his damage on the team’s final drive of the first half, as the team went to him eight times, including three times through the air for 23 yards and a four-yard touchdown that gave the Patriots a 10-9 lead heading into halftime. He would finish the game with just 18 yards on seven carries, doing most of his damage through the air with four catches for 42 yards and the score as the Patriots fell 21-17 in the Super Bowl. Analysis: Woodhead has always been capable of contributing in a lot of different ways; however the Patriots usually use him as a supplemental piece in their offense, making him more valuable for them than he is for Fantasy owners. He finished the season with 351 rushing yards and 157 receiving yards with one overall touchdown. His versatility allows the Patriots to use him in a lot of ways, but Fantasy owners might prefer a more concrete role for the diminutive back. Heading into the 2012 season, he should be considered nothing more than a late-round pick in deeper Fantasy leagues. |
| 2/5/2012 | BenJarvus Green-Ellis, RB, NE |
Green-Ellis not much of a factorNews: Patriots RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis led his team in rushing in the Super Bowl; of course, given that his team features Tom Brady and one of the most prolific passing games in the league, it led to a predictably run-of-the-mill final line, as he received just 10 carries for 44 yards while adding two receptions for 15 yards in the game. The Patriots would wind up losing the game 21-17 after a late-game comeback by the Giants. Analysis: Green-Ellis’ role in the offense tends to fluctuate more than most No. 1 running backs because the Patriots are a pass-heavy team that doesn’t rely on the ground attack much. Still, he did finish the season with 11 touchdowns, to go with 667 rushing yards. He was overshadowed at some points in the season by rookie Stevan Ridley, and the Patriots may be forced to let him go as a free agent this season. Depending on where he lands, Green-Ellis could emerge as a viable Fantasy option week-in and week-out, so keep an eye on his free agency before deciding on his Draft-Day value. |
| 2/5/2012 | Michael Boley, OLB, NYG |
Boley sparks Giants againNews: Giants LB Michael Boley recorded a team-high 11 tackles, including 10 solo stops, during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday night. It was the third time overall this season Boley has posted double digits in tackles. He also tallied a pass defended. Analysis: Boley shined during the Giants' impressive postseason run and racked up 27 tackles and two sacks in four games. The 29-year-old also had 93 tackles during the regular season -- the fifth time in his seven-year NFL career he topped 80-plus stops. However, he doesn't produce too many sacks and Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option in IDP formats for next season. |
| 2/5/2012 | Stephen Gostkowski, K, NE |
Gostkowski quiet in big gameNews: After a busy game in the AFC Championship, Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski didn’t have much to do in the Super Bowl, kicking just two extra points and a second-quarter 29-yard field goal as New England lost to the Giants 21-17. Analysis: Gostkowski had at least one field goal in every game this season -- a remarkable feat considering how often the Patriots offense scores touchdowns. Fantasy owners should view Gostkowski as a No. 1 kicker in 2012 drafts. |
| 2/5/2012 | Patriots, DST NE, |
Late touchdown sinks PatsNews: The Patriots held the Giants’ offense in check for about 56 minutes, holding a 17-15 lead as the Giants took over for their final offensive possession of the Super Bowl with just under four minutes to play. However they allowed Giants’ quarterback Eli Manning to complete five of six passes and move quickly down the field, setting up Ahmad Bradshaw for a six-yard touchdown with 57 seconds remaining that put the Giants up for good. The Patriots defense gave up 396 total yards and failed to pick up any turnovers in the game, allowing the Giants to rack up 37:05 of time of possession. They did manage to put good pressure on Manning for parts of the game, racking up three sacks and six quarterback hurries, however it just wasn’t enough, as the Patriots lost by a final score of 21-17. Analysis: The Patriots defense was surprisingly good in the game, adopting a bend-don’t-break approach to keeping the Giants’ high-powered offense in check. They stepped up when it mattered the most, holding their post-season opponents to 17.7 points per game in three games. They gave up a ton of yards in both the post-season and regular season, however they were middle of the pack in points allowed. They were a pretty solid Fantasy DST unit thanks to their relatively stingy scoring defense as well as the 23 interceptions and 10 fumbles they forced. They’re going to need to retool in the offseason, especially in the secondary, however they should be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy unit on Draft Day. |
| 2/5/2012 | Lawrence Tynes, K, NYG |
Tynes perfect in Super BowlNews: Giants K Lawrence Tynes converted both field-goal attempts and his lone extra point during New York's 21-17 victory over New England in Super Bowl XLVI on Sunday night. Tynes converted kicks of 38 and 33 yards -- both in the third quarter -- to finish with multiple field goals for the third consecutive playoff game. Analysis: It appeared Tynes was primed to attempt a potential game-winning field goal late in the fourth quarter before RB Ahmad Bradshaw capped the scoring with his 6-yard touchdown run. Tynes was perfect in his past two games (4 for 4) after missing one field goal in each of his first two outings this postseason. The 33-year-old still has his struggles from long range and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy K in drafts for next season. |
| 2/5/2012 | Travis Beckum, TE, NYG |
Beckum tears ACLNews: Giants TE Travis Beckum suffered torn right ACL in the second quarter of the Super Bowl against the Patriots. He was jammed by a Pats defender and landed awkwardly, falling to the ground and clutching his knee. He was carted off the field and was on crutches during the Giants' celebration following the win. Analysis: This could be the end of the line for Beckum, who has a history of leg injuries dating back to his college days. In 2012 he'll be in the final year of his contract but will almost certainly start the year on the team's PUP list. Expect him to be a non-factor in Fantasy. |
| 2/2/2012 | Tony Gonzalez, TE, ATL |
Gonzo: 2012 is it for meNews: Tony Gonzalez said during a chat on ESPN that he intends to make 2012 his final season. But even he knows that promise might not easily be kept. "I said that last year though, and the year before. But I really do believe this is it. First of all, this is the first time my wife came to me and said, 'You’re only going to play one more year, right?'" Analysis: Gonzalez will be 36 when the season starts, and while he definitely is an elder statesman in the NFL community, he's still very productive. He's done very well in two of three seasons with the Falcons and we've seen his production go up in some respects since arriving in Atlanta. He's fine as a No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 in drafts. |
| 2/2/2012 | Steve Johnson, WR, BUF |
Johnson: I love Buffalo, but ...News: Bills WR Steve Johnson said that while his heart is in Buffalo and he'd like to stay there, being a free agent is "nerve-wracking but it's kind of exciting." Johnson is slated to test free agency this offseason. He said he plans to leave negotiating to his agent and do what he can in the coming months to heal his sore groin (he played through the injury last year) and become a better route runner. Johnson's agent declined to say if the Bills and he had exchanged offers. "I'm hoping Buffalo will step up," Johnson told the Buffalo News. "But if not and I hit the market in free agency, then Buffalo is in the picture no matter what. But to be in free agency to see what other teams are saying, that's also good. ... If you've never been in this situation, you look back where you came from it's something good, it's an achievement. It's something where you can do well for your family and the people close around you." Analysis: Johnson just made it to 1,004 yards in 2011 with seven touchdowns, so he proved that his smashing 2010 campaign wasn't a fluke while also proving that he's not an elite NFL receiver. There could be some risk in drafting Johnson this summer in that he'll get a nice contract extension and might only be as good as he was this past season. Treat him like a No. 2 Fantasy wideout but not one worth reaching for in drafts this summer. Expect him to be taken between Rounds 5 and 7. |
| 2/2/2012 | Donovan McNabb, QB, MIN |
McNabb still wants to playNews: Donovan McNabb told NFL.com that he thinks he can still play in the league. McNabb was cut by the Vikings in early December and wasn't signed by anyone. "I see three teams in the NFL, right now, that I feel like I can add a little bit of flavor to it from what they have," McNabb said. "I won't mention those teams. But, if the phone rings, there will be a lot of decisions to make on that." Analysis: The three teams McNabb might be eyeballing could be Miami, Cleveland and Arizona. They all run a version of the West Coast offense and Cleveland especially would be a good fit because of their new offensive coordinator, Brad Childress, who worked with McNabb in Philadelphia for many years. However, McNabb has reportedly struggled with the last two playbooks he's had to learn and his production has suffered for it. We don't see McNabb as a draft-worthy option at this point. |
| 2/2/2012 | Falcons, TQB ATL, |
Falcons' playbook will changeNews: Falcons coach Mike Smith told the official team website that the addition of Dirk Koetter as the offensive coordinator means that a new playbook is coming. It will be the first change in the offense in four years, but it doesn't mean it's for the worse, says Smith. "Dirk has a great reputation throughout the NFL and throughout the football world in terms of his vertical passing game, which I think will be a big plus for our quarterback and our wide receivers," Smith said. "We're looking forward to start working on the offensive schemes that we will be implementing next year. They'll be a little different than what we've done in the first four years, but we're excited. I know Matt had a very good meeting with Dirk, and the staff has already (started) working on putting the new playbook together." Analysis: Ryan should be able to grasp a new playbook, so really the only change we can hope for is that the play calling will stay aggressive and that the receivers understand the scheme changes as well as Ryan does. Koetter is known for being a good play caller and not trying to force a square peg into a round hole; he ran the ball a ton in Jacksonville but has done well with limited talent in the past. Now with the Falcons, he'll have access to some excellent talent including Roddy White and Julio Jones catching passes from Ryan. With Ryan's touchdown production on the rise every year of his career and his passing yardage topping 4,000 yards for the first time in 2011, it's hard to see him being a huge bust. So long as the Falcons address his offensive line in the coming offseason, figure Ryan to be a potential Draft Day steal as a low-end starter available as late as Round 6. Not bad for a guy who finished eighth in Fantasy points in 2011. |
| 2/2/2012 | James Starks, RB, GB |
Starks sets sights on improvementNews: Packers RB James Starks told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that he intends to work harder this offseason to be a better running back. Starks saw limited reps in 2011 -- he didn't have more than 13 carries in any single game -- but still led the team in rushing yards with 578 rushing yards (19 more than Ryan Grant). Grant might not be back in Green Bay in 2012, opening the door for Starks to potentially be an every-down back. "If that's how it happens, I'll be ready," Starks said. "But whatever happens, happens. I have no problem with what was going on this year, so I'd be fine with whatever. I'm a team player. Whatever's going to help the team, I'm all for it. ... I just have to do better with my carries. Doesn't really matter how many you get. Just have to do more with your opportunities." Analysis: Starks has the right attitude, but if he's ever going to be big in Fantasy then he'll need to be in a position where he gets a lot of work every week -- and does something with it. After Week 1, he didn't score a single touchdown in 2011 and had two games with over 100 total yards. He also got banged up toward the end of the year and has a long injury history that dates back to college. Assuming the Packers add help at running back this offseason, Starks won't be any better than a high-end reserve rusher for Fantasy purposes. He simply is not that great of a back. |
| 2/1/2012 | Ray Rice, RB, BAL |
Ravens won't let Rice go freeNews: In news that should surprise no one, the Ravens said Wednesday that they intend to keep RB Ray Rice from hitting free agency this offseason. But GM Ozzie Newsome would prefer to give Rice a long-term extension and not the franchise tag. While the tag would likely keep him with the Ravens for another season, an extension would give the Ravens some cap relief for the upcoming season. “We would like to have a deal done with Ray before we get have to put the tag on him,” Newsome said "[That] does give us flexibility to go and do some other things with some other players. The agent knows that, too, so we have to balance that." Analysis: Rice was the No. 1 RB in standard leagues in 2011 as he topped 1,350 rushing yards on the season with 12 rushing touchdowns. His 15 total touchdowns set a single-season Ravens franchise record. While there is some concern about backs who get a large contract (Chris Johnson), Rice strikes us as the kind of player who will play hard regardless of his financial situation. He's been great for Fantasy owners over the last two seasons and should keep it up. No matter how you feel about Rice, you can count on him being a Top-5 pick in pretty much every draft. |
| 2/1/2012 | Matt Forte, RB, CHI |
Bears won't let Forte hit free agencyNews: Bears team president Ted Phillips told ESPN that he does not intend to let RB Matt Forte test free agency this offseason. It is believed that if the team cannot agree to a long-term deal with him that they will franchise him. "We'd like to (work out a long-term deal with Forte)," Phillips said. "But as Phil pointed out we obviously will at least consider placing the franchise tag on him. We don't have any intention of letting Matt hit the open market. We'll sit down with him privately, Phil will, and discuss what the plans are prior to the Feb. 20 franchise tag date." Analysis: Forte hinted recently that he might hold out if the Bears franchise him. We've seen several running backs hold out only to struggle to play well at the start of the season. We've also seen running backs land huge contracts and slack off in their first year under those deals.(Chris Johnson ring a bell?) We'll see what happens with Forte but for now let's focus on the fact that his knee is fine (he played in the Pro Bowl) and he's in an offense that will continue to lean on him so long as he's a Bear. Forte is a solid No. 1 Fantasy RB worth a pick as soon as fifth overall. We'll keep you posted on his contract situation. |
| 2/1/2012 | Joe Flacco, QB, BAL |
Owner: Flacco is trending upNews: Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti promised Wednesday that Joe Flacco would be the team's starting quarterback for years to come. Speaking with the media Wednesday, the Ravens owner made it clear that the team is going to begin contract extension talks with Flacco now before he enters his contract year. "He's trending up," Bisciotti said. "This is the sweet spot for him, years five through 10. ... I think he's going to be extremely successful. I think he's going to have rings. I think he's got 10 years of his prime to show it." Analysis: Flacco's won a lot of games for the Ravens but hasn't taken the next step statistically, even when the team added Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith. Flacco has had between 3,610 and 3,622 passing yards and between 20 and 25 touchdowns in each of his last three seasons. But this year his completion percentage and yards per attempt dropped like a rock while his pass attempts hit a career high (542, breaking the previous mark of 499). Flacco fits the bill as a great No. 2 Fantasy QB; though he's finally outfitted with a quality receiving corps, he simply doesn't invoke much confidence as a starting option. Look for him late in drafts. |
| 2/1/2012 | Matt Flynn, QB, GB |
Packers won't tag FlynnNews: The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the Packers will not use the franchise tag on free-agent-to-be quarterback Matt Flynn. The team is too close to the cap to risk Flynn signing the guaranteed one-year tender and sending their cap out of control. He's expected to test free agency. Analysis: Flynn hasn't played much while Aaron Rodgers has shined, but when he has played he's been nothing short of fantastic: In his last two starts vs. the Lions this year and at the Patriots in 2010 he totaled nine touchdowns, 731 passing yards and two interceptions. Smart money is on Flynn landing in Miami with former offensive coordinator Joe Philbin now serving as head coach; if that happens then he'll be worth drafting late as a No. 2 Fantasy QB. |
| 1/31/2012 | Michael Vick, QB, PHI |
Reid: Vick has room to improveNews: Speaking with the media Tuesday, Eagles head coach Andy Reid said that he's been in contact with QB Michael Vick and plans on working with him to cut down on his turnovers as well as improve his coordination with his receivers. He cited his success throwing to tight end Brent Celek as proof that Vick can improve and hopes he does dedicate himself to his craft this offseason. Reid added that he thinks Vick won't change his style of play but will be smarter about what he does when he runs with the football. "You look at the last four teams that are playing in the playoffs and all four quarterbacks didn't miss a start. So he's aware of that and he understands how important he is to this football team when he's healthy," Reid said. "... So you limit your contact points that he had. And I think that he was able to see that this year. Now does that mean that he's never going to run the ball again? No. I would tell you that I'm sure he's going to run the ball. But when you do that, is there a time to get out of bounds and a time to get down? Absolutely, so that you live to play the next play." Analysis: It's nice to hear this from Reid, but ultimately Fantasy owners cannot expect Vick to last 16 games. He's done it once in his career and it's the main reason why he shouldn't be a Top 20 pick this season. However, he's still a high-risk, high-reward type who should go off of draft boards between 25th and 35th overall. He'll still be a No. 1 option, albeit one who will need a capable backup behind him on rosters. |
| 1/31/2012 | Peyton Hillis, RB, CLE |
Browns would bring Hillis backNews: A league source tells the Cleveland Plain Dealer that the Browns are open to keeping RB Peyton Hillis -- for the right price. He's scheduled to be a free agent this offseason. Hillis had 161 carries for 587 yards (3.6 avg.) with three rushing scores and 22 catches for 130 yards in nine starts last season. The year was overshadowed when he left the team with strep throat symptoms just before kickoff in Week 3 and then hurt his hamstring twice over the course of the season. But the Browns say they've seen enough from him to want him back. It is believed that contract negotiations haven't begun. Analysis: If he sticks with the Browns he could end up being a decent No. 2 Fantasy RB if he can stay healthy. If he moves on to a new club, it'll be because a team thinks his rushing style can be utilized in some capacity but probably not as a full-time back. He has potential for a bunch of catches and scores but he'll never be as good of a running back as he was in 2010. Expect Hillis to hang out until Round 7 or 8 in drafts this summer. |
| 1/31/2012 | Brent Celek, TE, PHI |
Celek off of crutchesNews: Eagles head coach Andy Reid said TE Brent Celek is off crutches and is "moving around pretty well" following surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left hip and a sports hernia. Celek finished second on Philadelphia with 62 receptions for 811 yards and five touchdowns. Analysis: Celek should be fine for training camp and might even participate without issue in minicamps this spring. He experienced a solid rebound this year following his disappointing 2010 campaign and averaged a career-high 13.1 yards per catch. Celek should be considered with a selection in the middle rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts as a starting tight end. |
| 1/31/2012 | Raiders, DST OAK, |
Raiders tab Allen as new head coachNews: With speculation pointing to Reggie McKenzie hiring one of his former colleagues in Green Bay to be his first head coach, he instead turned to 39-year-old Dennis Allen, who had only one year of experience as a defensive coordinator in Denver and had never been a head coach at any level. He starts his first head coaching job in Oakland with the task of turning around a franchise that has gone nine consecutive seasons without a winning record or a playoff berth while going through a revolving door of head coaches. Allen is the seventh head coach for the Raiders since 2003. Analysis: The Raiders are also coming off one of their worst defensive seasons ever. Oakland had franchise worsts in touchdown passes allowed (31), yards per carry (5.1), yards passing (4,262) and total yards (6,201), while giving up the third-most points (433) in team history. But Allen did a nice job turning around the Broncos defense in one season and should be in a position to help the Raiders turn things around in 2012. Consider the Raiders DST a deep sleeper for Fantasy purposes right now. |
| 1/31/2012 | Bills, DST BUF, |
Bills moving to 4-3 defenseNews: Bills head coach Chan Gailey said Monday that Buffalo's defense will switch from a 3-4 scheme to predominantly a four-man front. Last season they used both fronts and had some early-season success before injuries hurt the unit. Analysis: Though injuries played a role, the Bills were over-run, giving up a franchise-worst 5,938 yards. Buffalo also allowed 434 points, the second most in team history. They'll get Kyle Williams healthy and he'll go a long way in winning the war at the line of scrimmage for the Bills, as will Marcell Dareus. But anything else the Bills can do to get their run defense under control will go a long way, especially since most of their quality defensive players are already under contract for 2012. The Bills DST might be a sleeper unit for Fantasy owners. |
| 1/31/2012 | Colts, DST IND, |
Report: Butler turns down ColtsNews: A day after it was reported that the Colts signed Keith Butler to be their defensive coordinator, it appears he'll stay with the Steelers. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Butler will remain in Pittsburgh after meeting with team president Art Rooney II and head coach Mike Tomlin. It had been believed that Butler was the coordinator-in-waiting behind defensive mastermind Dick LeBeau in Pittsburgh, and perhaps now it will be that way. Analysis: This stinks for the Colts DST as Butler is considered one of the best defensive minds in the league. But at the very least the move to try and get Butler hints that the Colts will try to move into a 3-4 scheme, which means a defensive overhaul is coming to Indy. Let's see who ends up as the defensive boss here before we assume such a change is coming to the Colts' front seven. |
| 1/30/2012 | Brandon Marshall, WR, MIA |
Pro Bowl just the beginning for Marshall?News: Brandon Marshall caught six passes for 176 yards and a Pro Bowl-record four touchdowns, but he isn't taking time in the islands to relish his performance. Instead, he's ready to get back to work. Marshall said he had changed his flight to leave Honolulu on Sunday night, so he could meet new head coach Joe Philbin on Monday. "Hopefully down in Miami we can get some things turned around," Marshall said. "We have some special things to do, and we will do some special things down in South Beach." Analysis: Marshall also referenced the caliber of quarterbacks he was catching passes from, noting that he had four in this game but six in the entire 2011 season. Marshall would benefit if the Dolphins had a good quarterback, or if the Dolphins shipped him to a team with a good quarterback. Due $9.3 million in 2012, the Dolphins could make a move involving him if they don't think he'll ever deliver big numbers. In two years with Miami Marshall has back-to-back 80-catch, 1,000-yard campaigns but has nine total touchdowns. It's pretty clear that he's a volume receiver and needs to continue to be fed a ton of targets in order to put up even decent yardage, but his touchdown production keeps him from being great. Call him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR worth a pick starting in Round 3. |
| 1/30/2012 | Eagles, DST PHI, |
Eagles keep Castillo as DCNews: In a fairly surprising move, the Eagles will keep Juan Castillo as their defensive coordinator for the 2012 season. Comcast SportsNet reports that Castillo will stick and that the team will add ex-Dolphins interim head coach Todd Bowles to coach the secondary. Analysis: Philly's defense was inconsistent in 2011, allowing 112.6 rush yards per game but just 212.3 passing yards per game. Then again, they allowed 27 passing touchdowns and just 11 rushing touchdowns. They did make improvements toward the end of the season and could be in position to be much improved in 2012 given that they'll have an offseason to get their collective act together. They're still worth a late pick on Draft Day. |
| 1/28/2012 | Aldon Smith, OLB, SF |
Niners' Smith arrested in MiamiNews: San Francisco rookie LB Aldon Smith was arrested Saturday in Miami Beach on DUI charges, reports KTVU in Miami. Analysis: Smith had a solid debut season in the NFL with 14 sacks in the regular season, the second-most by a rookie in NFL history. Smith, the No. 7 overall pick in last year's draft, had two sacks in the postseason as well. Possibly the league's Defensive Rookie of the Year, Smith doesn't want to tarnish his record with the DUI charge. He's subject to possible fine or suspension if he is found to have violated the NFL's personal conduct policy. Otherwise, he'll be a solid option in IDP formats next year. |
| 1/28/2012 | Broncos, DST DEN, |
Broncos bring in Del RioNews: The Denver Broncos have agreed to terms with Jack Del Rio to become the club’s new defensive coordinator, the team announced Friday night. Del Rio was coach John Fox’s first defensive coordinator in Carolina in 2002 before leaving after one year to coach the Jacksonville Jaguars, who fired him in November. Del Rio replaces Dennis Allen, who left after one year in Denver to become the coach of the Oakland Raiders. Analysis: Del Rio is the Broncos’ seventh defensive coordinator in seven seasons. Others who have filled the Mile High musical chair in the last six seasons are Larry Coyer (2006), Jim Bates (2007), Bob Slowik (2008), Mike Nolan (2009) and Don Martindale (2010). Allen was the only one who left for a head coaching job. Del Rio will be in charge of a unit that was inconsistent throughout the past season and surrendered an average of 24.4 points per game. With solid LB Von Miller progressing, Denver should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy DST for 2012. |
| 1/27/2012 | Ravens, DST BAL, |
Pees replaces Pagano in BaltimoreNews: The Ravens will replace Chuck Pagano with Dean Pees as their defensive coordinator. Pagano left the Ravens to coach the Colts. Pees previously coached the Ravens linebackers and was last a defensive coordinator with the Patriots. Analysis: Pees should be fine running a Ravens defense that's been consistently strong. They have a good pass rush in place along with a great run-stuffing unit. They could improve in some areas (while they limited running backs on the ground they still allowed a bunch of rushing touchdowns) but it's assumed that they'll be worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer as a No. 1 unit. |
| 1/27/2012 | Buccaneers, DST TB, |
Bucs tab Schiano as new head coachNews: The Buccaneers are counting on Greg Schiano to lead them back to respectability and transform Tampa Bay into consistent winners -- much in the same way he made Rutgers matter again. Schiano was at Rutgers for 11 seasons, taking them from college football laughingstocks to a program that has had winning records in six of the last seven years. He was an assistant coach in the NFL with Chicago from 1996-98. "Coach Schiano is a bright, meticulous teacher who knows how to get the most out of his players," GM Mark Dominik said. "He built and ran a pro-style program at Rutgers, and he's a defensive-minded coach whose teams have always been characterized by toughness and a physical style of play." Analysis: Schiano inherits a team that allowed the most points in the NFL this season and is also among the league's youngest. There's no doubting his football knowledge or his ability to garner respect, but unless the Bucs surround him with some experienced coaches to help him through his first few years, there could be some struggles. We don't think the hire will improve the defense overnight as they have too many issues that warrant change. At the most, we could see the Bucs DST as a one-week replacement option during the season. |
| 1/27/2012 | Dolphins, DST MIA, |
Dolphins moving to 4-3 schemeNews: The Palm Beach Post reports that the Dolphins plan on moving to a 4-3 scheme in 2012. They had played in the 3-4 front previously but are switching back to a style the franchise has had a lot of success with. Former Bengals DB coach Kevin Coyle, who has worked in the 4-3 scheme for much of his career in Cincy, has agreed to become the defensive coordinator. "There are some pieces that we'll need to find, but I think we certainly have personnel that we can make a pretty good transition," Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland said. Analysis: The idea behind the switch is to make playing defense easier for the players, namely the secondary, which struggled for much of 2011. With Cameron Wake turning into a defensive end and putting some pressure on opposing quarterbacks regularly, the defense could improve quickly. They still need some work, but they're a unit we're watching between now and the start of the season. |
| 1/27/2012 | Cameron Wake, OLB, MIA |
Wake a potential Fantasy DL?News: The Palm Beach Post reports that the Dolphins plan on moving to a 4-3 scheme in 2012. That means Cameron Wake would no longer be a 3-4 linebacker and would move to a defensive end. Wake entered the league as an end but moved to LB when the Dolphins moved to a 3-4 scheme. Analysis: Wake had 8.5 sacks last year with 42 total tackles in 2011, finishing way behind the leaders of the pack as a linebacker. But if he did that as a Fantasy defensive lineman he'd have finished as a Top 25 DL. Assuming he indeed makes the move to DE, Fantasy owners should consider Wake a low-end No. 2 DL with potential to deliver some nice stats -- he's only a year removed from a 14-sack, 57-tackle season. |
| 1/26/2012 | Sidney Rice, WR, SEA |
Rice has surgery on both shouldersNews: According to 1500ESPN.com, Seahawks WR Sidney Rice had surgery on both his shoulders after the season ended. He was expected to have surgery to repair a torn labrum in one of his shoulders. Rice played in nine games last year, battling through this injury, before a concussion ended his season. Analysis: Rice's also had a hip procedure in 2010, so the injuries keep piling up on the young receiver. While he should be fine by training camp, Fantasy owners should keep tabs on his recovery process this offseason. Rice had some good games in 2011, but he was mostly inconsistent thanks to poor QB play. He will have limited value entering next year until he can prove he's 100 percent. |
| 1/26/2012 | Paul Posluszny, MLB, JAC |
Posluszny has shoulder surgeryNews: The Florida Times-Union reports that after suffering a very painful injury in the Jaguars final game of the season, LB Paul Posluszny had surgery to repair a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder. He is expected to be out until training camp. He suffered the injury in the first half against the Colts and staggered off the field after it. Posluszny said it was one of his most painful injuries, but "none of them are good." Analysis: Posluszny was healthy all year before that injury. He played nearly every snap for the Jaguars and had 192 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions in his first season with the Jaguars. We expect him to be 100 percent healthy for the start of training camp, and he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy LB in all IDP leagues. |
| 1/26/2012 | Casey Hampton, NT, PIT |
Hampton to have knee surgeryNews: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Steelers NT Casey Hampton said he will have surgery Friday to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, an injury he sustained in the season-ending playoff loss in Denver. It will be the third time Hampton has had ACL surgery, two of which came during his Steelers career. It is the second time he has had the surgery on his left knee. Analysis: Hampton, 34, said he wants to play in 2012, but his salary will be $4.89 million and his cap value will be more than $8 million next season. And team president Art Rooney II said the organization will face "tough decisions" during the offseason because the Steelers are $25 million over the salary cap. With the retirement of long-time backup nose tackle Chris Hoke, however, the Steelers are not prepared to go into 2012 without both players at what many consider to be the most important position in the 3-4 defense. The only one backup nose tackle is Steve McLendon. Keep an eye on Hampton's recovery, but he has minimal Fantasy value in 2012. |
| 1/26/2012 | Felix Jones, RB, DAL |
Jones likely behind MurrayNews: Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said on NFL Network that he was impressed with RB DeMarco Murray during his rookie season. “We knew he could be physical. We did not know he could run between the tackles,” Jones said. “We didn’t see that a lot. But we knew he had the speed, could block, protect, and knew that he could really catch the ball.” The Cowboys drafted Murray in the third round last year, and he wound up as the team’s leading rusher despite missing most of training camp with a hamstring injury and then missing the final three games because of a broken ankle. Jones said Murray’s power separates him from Felix Jones. “He’s just harder to bring down than Felix,” Jones said. “Felix has the quickness, the vision and can get outside. But Murray did bring that dimension of power, and there’s probably not five pounds’ worth of difference between the two. But he finishes. He’s just so powerful into the finish. And there’s no question that he really gave us a lift last year.” Analysis: Jones is expected to open the season as the No. 2 RB in Dallas behind Murray, but he will continue to have a role as the change-of-pace rusher and third-down back. Plan on drafting Jones with a late-round pick, and he's a good handcuff option for Murray. |
| 1/25/2012 | Steven Jackson, RB, STL |
Jackson excited for FisherNews: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Rams RB Steven Jackson is excited for new coach Jeff Fisher because, as the story says, "Fisher likes to ground and pound" and "Jackson is a grounding, pounding running back." That should help Jackson heading into 2012. "I think he's the perfect coach for a guy who wants to win," Jackson said. "He brings running and an attitude to the way you play the game, all the things I believe in. And what makes this hire so exciting is that coach Fisher has been a head coach in this league. Not to take anything away from (former Rams coaches Steve) Spagnuolo or (Scott) Linehan, who were very good at what they did. They were very good play callers on offense and defense. But being a head coach brings on another element to the game and coach Fisher has that experience." Analysis: Jackson had a solid season in 2011 with 260 carries for 1,145 yards and five touchdowns, 42 catches for 333 yards and one touchdown on 58 targets and one fumble. He is on the decline for his career, but he might have at least one good season left. He will have a great schedule in 2012 against weaker run defenses in Green Bay, Washington, New England, the Jets, Tampa Bay and Buffalo, along with his division opponents. Fisher will emphasize the run, and the Rams should look to improve their offensive line to also help protect Sam Bradford. Jackson closed the season on a high note with double digits in Fantasy points in three of his final four games, and you should expect 300-plus touches and quality production. We'll find out if the Rams add a running back in the draft, which is likely, but Jackson can still be helpful for what might be his final standout year as a featured rusher. He remains a risky option to draft in Round 2, but there aren't many workhorse running backs like him. |
| 1/25/2012 | Michael Bush, RB, OAK |
Raiders to franchise RB Bush?News: The Contra Costa Times speculates that it's "better than even money" that the Raiders will use the franchise tag on RB Michael Bush this offseason. With teammate Darren McFadden banged up year after year, the Raiders might not be interested in letting Bush leave so easily, and the franchise tag would more than likely keep him in Oakland for at least one more season. Bush was great replacing McFadden as the starter when McFadden got hurt in 2011, totaling 740 rush yards, 307 receiving yards and five total touchdowns in nine starts. The expected guaranteed one-year salary for a franchised running back is $7.7 million. Analysis: The Times even went as far as to call McFadden the team's "best bargaining chip" for trades this offseason, which suggests that the team might franchise Bush and trade DMC, making Bush the primary back in Oakland. Fantasy owners have clamored for Bush to become a back with 20-touch potential week in and week out, and he might get the chance this season. If it happens, you have to like his chances to produce like a low-end No. 1 Fantasy RB and be worthy of a Top 30 pick. Then again, if he ends up parked behind McFadden in Oakland, then he'll have limited opportunities until McFadden gets hurt -- again. If that happens then Bush would get picked around Round 6 or 7 as a superior backup and handcuff to McFadden. We'll see how this situation plays out starting in March. |
| 1/25/2012 | Chris Hoke, NT, PIT |
Hoke retires from footballNews: Pittsburgh nose tackle Chris Hoke announced his retirement Wednesday. He was placed on IR last season and had to undergo season-ending neck surgery on Dec. 14. He played in six games in 2011, starting twice while recording three tackles. Analysis: The 11-year Steelers veteran was an undrafted rookie free agent out of BYU in 2001. Pittsburgh recorded a 17-1 mark in his 18 career starts when he filled in for Casey Hampton in rare injury situations. He has no Fantasy value having retired from the game. |
| 1/25/2012 | Darren McFadden, RB, OAK |
Could the Raiders deal DMC?News: The Contra Costa Times referred to Raiders RB Darren McFadden as their "best bargaining chip" this offseason and could consider moving him for the right price. The paper also speculated that it's "better than even money" that the Raiders will use the franchise tag on RB Michael Bush this offseason, fueling the idea that he could have a bigger role in the offense in 2012. McFadden rushed for 614 yards and caught 19 passes for 154 yards with five total touchdowns in seven starts last season but was sidelined for the season with a Lisfranc sprain in his foot. Analysis: McFadden has two years left on his contract at over $5 million per season, which would be a strike against him in the trade market as a new team might not be willing to pay a player with an injury history that much. And note that nothing official has been rumored or leaked by a team source, but it would make some sense for the Raiders to deal McFadden if a suitor did come along. There's no doubting McFadden's ability: He's averaged 88.5 rush yards and 33.0 receiving yards over his last 20 starts with 15 total touchdowns. But staying healthy is a major factor for him, and it's something Fantasy owners will have to consider with him regardless of where he winds up playing. It's OK to draft McFadden with a Top 24 pick, but in doing so you must also commit to drafting his backup as a handcuff for when (not if) McFadden gets hurt. If it's Bush in Oakland, that means using a sixth- or seventh-round pick, which certainly isn't ideal when we're talking about building a good Fantasy team. |
| 1/24/2012 | Adrian Peterson, RB, MIN |
Peterson progressing for VikesNews: According to ESPN.com, Minnesota RB Adrian Peterson hasn't begun jogging in the pool in his rehab process, but he is progressing. Peterson has been wearing a brace from his ankle to above his knee after getting off his crutches. He had surgery to repair his ACL and MCL earlier in the month. His goal is to be back in time for Week 1 of the 2012 season. "Anything I put my mind to I'm going to accomplish," he said. "I'm going to come back better than before." Analysis: Peterson is very optimistic on his return date, but recovery times and rehabilitation from major knee surgeries vary from player to player. Moreover, the ability to come back from such a major knee injury at the same level as before is not a given. We think that until he shows that he'll be back in time for Week 1 and playing at a level at or near what we're used to, he's not worth a first-round choice. Peterson slipped to the second round of our initial mock draft of the year, which might be where he winds up this summer. And it goes without saying that anyone who drafts Peterson must be prepared to spend a seventh-round pick on Toby Gerhart as a handcuff in case AP is not ready to play by Week 1. We'll follow his progress all offseason long. |
| 1/24/2012 | Beanie Wells, RB, ARI |
Wells undergoes surgeryNews: Cardinals RB Beanie Wells said on Twitter on Tuesday he is undergoing surgery, which is expected to be on his troublesome knee. Wells wrote "time to go under the knife" on Tuesday morning, but he did not specify the nature of his operation. Wells played most of the season with a lingering knee injury, and he only missed Week 3 and Week 17, which was a meaningless game for the Cardinals. Coach Ken Whisenhunt said following Week 17 that Wells played most of the year on "one leg." Analysis: Despite the knee problem, Wells played well in 2011. He ran for 1,047 yards and 10 touchdowns through 14 games. He also caught 10 passes for 52 yards. We hope the surgery isn't serious, and Wells is expected to be fine for the start of 2012. He should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into the season, and hopefully he can hold off Ryan Williams for the starting job all year. Williams (knee) missed his rookie campaign, but he will likely compete with Wells for carries next season. |
| 1/24/2012 | Ray Lewis, ILB, BAL |
Lewis not intending to retireNews: Baltimore LB Ray Lewis said he has no plans to retire following the Ravens' loss to New England in the AFC Championship game on Sunday. Lewis, 36, recorded 96 tackles and two sacks during his 16th NFL season. "Is this my last time as a Raven? Absolutely not," Lewis told the Carrol County Times on Sunday. "Let me answer that question before somebody asks me. Absolutely not. It's just too much, man." Analysis: Lewis missed four games this year with a toe injury -- the first time he did not play an entire campaign in the past four seasons. Still, he was able to top 90 tackles as the lost time hurt his chances to reach the century mark for the sixth consecutive season. If Lewis does indeed return, he will continue to serve as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy IDP formats for the 2012 season. |
| 1/24/2012 | Mike Jenkins, CB, DAL |
Jenkins expected at training campNews: Cowboys DB Mike Jenkins had surgery on his right shoulder two weeks ago and will need four to six months of recovery, according to the Dallas Morning News. Cowboys owner/general manager Jerry Jones said Jenkins should be ready for the start of training camp in late July. "I don't at this time have him down as a concern of what we want to defensively during the offseason," Jones said. Analysis: Jenkins will miss the team's offseason drills, but the start of training camp is more important. The 26-year-old finished with 24 tackles and an interception while missing four games because of injuries. Fantasy owners should not consider him a worthwhile option in IDP formats. |
| 1/24/2012 | Dolphins, TQB MIA, |
Moore unlikely to start in 2012News: The Miami Herald reports that Dolphins GM Jeff Ireland said Tuesday that the team will seek an upgrade over QB Matt Moore this offseason. "We need a quarterback that can lead us over the hump," Ireland said. "This is a quarterback league. We have to do our best to make our position better." Ireland praised Moore's toughness, but the inference was clearly made that Miami wants to upgrade from him in 2012. Moore, however, remains under contract for 2012. Analysis: The Dolphins will likely go after a new quarterback in the draft or try to sign a free agent like Matt Flynn. Keep an eye on what happens this offseason, and Moore would only be a No. 2 Fantasy QB at best if he starts for the Dolphins next year. |
| 1/24/2012 | Calvin Johnson, WR, DET |
Megatron ready to talk dealNews: Lions WR Calvin Johnson told Jim Rome on Monday that he's ready to begin contract extension talks with the team this offseason instead of waiting until next offseason. Johnson is entering a contract year in 2012 and is coming off a sensational season, finishing the regular season with 96 catches for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns with another 211 yards and two touchdowns in one playoff game. "We're going to have some talks soon, and hopefully get things rolling," Johnson told Rome on ESPN. Analysis: It's becoming increasingly clear that Johnson will be a popular first-round pick in drafts this summer. He's been very good when he's been healthy and his potential to put up big stats is pretty obvious. Expect him to go anywhere from fifth to 12th overall in drafts. It'll only help if he plays without that extension in 2012 so that he works hard to earn a rich extension. |
| 1/24/2012 | Chad Henne, QB, MIA |
Henne 'ready to go'News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that QB Chad Henne is not expected to return to the Dolphins in 2012. He is a free agent this offseason, and his chances of returning to Miami are slim. “I hope so,” Henne said of playing in Miami next season. “If not, then I’ll move on, but I love this team. I love being down here.” Henne started four games this season before sustaining a season-ending shoulder injury against San Diego. He’s completed rehab and said he’s ready to contribute wherever he lands. “I’ll be ready,” Henne said. “I’ll be healthy. I’ll be ready to go, wherever." Analysis: Henne will likely leave the Dolphins and end up as a No. 2 QB somewhere else. He could go to a team and compete for the starting job, but his Fantasy value is minimal. Keep an eye on his status, but don't plan on drafting him in any leagues in 2012. |
| 1/22/2012 | Vernon Davis, TE, SF |
Davis adds more playoff TDsNews: After hauling in two touchdowns during the 49ers' first playoff game, TE Vernon Davis had another productive performance in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Giants. He caught three passes for 112 yards with two more scores in the 20-17 overtime loss. He hauled in a 73-yard scoring strike from QB Alex Smith in the first quarter before being on the receiving end of a 28-yard touchdown in the second half. Davis caught 10 passes for 292 yards with four touchdowns in two playoff games. Analysis: While Davis had a down campaign during the regular season, he put together two solid performances in the playoffs and was the lone big-play threat for San Francisco. He appears to have developed a nice rapport with Smith and with the same offensive coordinator coming back next season, he should be able to get back on track. Consider Davis a No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/23/2012 | Jason Hanson, K, DET |
Hanson has no quit in himNews: Lions kicker Jason Hanson anticipates having competition for his job in training camp, and is ready for it. "I think the days of not having competition are over, because I'm old and they're probably always wondering when's the day when he falls to the ground," Hanson told the Detroit Free Press. "Not going to happen. And competition's good. Unless you're 30 of 31 (on field goals), then I don't think you get the freebie. But I feel like I can kick as well as anybody if I'm healthy. And I was, and I will be." Analysis: Hanson hit 24 of 29 field goals in 2011 including 3 of 4 from 50-plus yards. Not only has he been a reliable kicker for the Lions since 1992, but he's on a team that's expected to move the ball quite a bit in 2012. We think Hanson's worth a late-round choice so long as the Lions keep him. |
| 1/23/2012 | Rams, TQB STL, |
Bradford gets third OC in as many yearsNews: The Rams hired Brian Schottenheimer to be their offensive coordinator, reports the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. That means QB Sam Bradford will work in his third offense in as many seasons. Schottenheimer's playbook is a variation of his father, Marty's, which was born under the principles of Don Coryell's pass-attack scheme that involved lots of shifts, formations and deep plays. In 2011, the Chargers and Ravens ran similar offenses. Analysis: While it stinks that Bradford will have to learn another offense, the hope is that he does well in this one. Many will criticize Schottenheimer's work with the Jets, but some of it has to be attributed to the quarterback there, Mark Sanchez. In St. Louis, Schottenheimer has a better passer to work with in Bradford and should add at least one receiver (possibly rookie Justin Blackmon) to help the offense out. This will sound familiar to those of you who checked out Bradford before last season: He has low-risk, high-reward potential as a middle- to late-round pick in drafts this summer. If you find yourself waiting for a quarterback on Draft Day, consider making Bradford your quality No. 2 quarterback with the idea of cashing in on a breakout season via trade if he plays well. |
| 1/23/2012 | Tarell Brown, CB, SF |
Brown leaves after big hitNews: 49ers DB Tarell Brown left Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Giants and did not return. He was struck by Dashon Goldson on a third down play late in the third quarter as they collided going for an interception. Brown required the help of trainers to leave the field of play and was taken to the locker room for observation. Rookie DB Chris Culliver took his place and DB Tramaine Brock is the third corner. Analysis: Brown posted five tackles and a pass defended before leaving on Sunday. He posted 40 tackles during the regular season with a career-high four interceptions, which gave him some low-end value in Fantasy. Still, he is not productive enough to be a consistent contributor so plan on ignoring him in IDP formats in 2012. |
| 1/23/2012 | David Akers, K, SF |
Akers makes lone FG vs. GiantsNews: 49ers K David Akers made all of his attempts in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Giants. He converted his lone field goal and made two extra points in the 20-17 overtime loss. He connected from 25 yards in the fourth quarter. Analysis: Akers had a career campaign in his first season with the 49ers as he made 44 field goals during the regular season, including going 7 for 9 from 50-plus yards. He also set the franchise's single-season scoring record and should be in for another productive year in 2012. Consider Akers a No. 1 Fantasy K on Draft Day. |
| 1/22/2012 | 49ers, DST SF, |
49ers run over by GiantsNews: The 49ers entered the NFC Championship Game against the Giants with the best run defense in the NFL but they had a hard time slowing down the run on Sunday. San Francisco allowed 328 yards of total offense, including 150 on the ground, in the 20-17 overtime loss. While they were able to sack QB Eli Manning six times, including 2.5 by Ray McDonald, they were unable to pick him off. WR Kyle Williams also fumbled two kick returns in the defeat. Analysis: The 49ers sported one of the best defenses in the league throughout the year as they allowed the second-least points in the NFL during the regular season. Most of their success came from their front-seven, and they were even able to keep things going despite LB Patrick Willis missing time due to a hamstring injury. The unit in San Francisco is very young and athletic and should only get better with time. Consider the 49ers DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/22/2012 | Michael Crabtree, WR, SF |
Crabtree bottled up in Championship GameNews: 49ers WR Michael Crabtree did not come up with most of the passes thrown his way in Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Giants. He was targeted five times by QB Alex Smith, making one catch for 3 yards in the 20-17 overtime loss. Crabtree was the only wide receiver on San Francisco to post a catch in the contest. “I’m a receiver, I’m always going to think I’m open, even if someone’s on me," he said. "I just wanted a chance.” Analysis: After recording four receptions for 25 yards and a touchdown in the first playoff game, Crabtree underwhelmed on Sunday. Still, he had a career campaign under new coach Jim Harbaugh and should only continue to grow as the 49ers get better on offense. He will likely remain the No. 1 WR in San Francisco heading into next season so consider Crabtree a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats on Draft Day. |
| 1/22/2012 | Frank Gore, RB, SF |
Gore totals 119 yards vs. GiantsNews: 49ers RB Frank Gore was able to find some room to run in Sunday's NFC Championship game against the Giants. He gained 74 yards on 16 carries and caught six passes for 45 yards in the 20-17 overtime loss. He had a long run of 11 and averaged 4.6 yards per carry. Gore rushed for 163 yards in the playoffs. Analysis: Gore had a resurgent campaign for the 49ers and a lot of that had to do with his ability to stay healthy. He rushed for over 1,200 yards for the first time since 2006 and improved his touchdowns from just five a year ago to eight. The 28-year-old already holds most of the rushing records in San Francisco and should be a solid option in Fantasy again next season. Target Gore as a No. 2 Fantasy RB on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/22/2012 | Billy Cundiff, K, BAL |
Cundiff misses game-tying FGNews: Baltimore K Billy Cundiff recorded eight points in Sunday's AFC Championship game loss to the Patriots, but it's the three he didn't record that cost his team the most. Cundiff went 2 for 3 on field goals in the game and added two extra points. His 39-yard field goal late in the third quarter gave Baltimore a 20-16 lead at the time. Unfortunately, Cundiff missed a 32-yard FG attempt with seconds left to play, giving the Patriots a 23-20 victory. Analysis: Cundiff might find himself without a job following this miss. He didn't finish 2011 as a Top 12 kicker and has had difficulties connecting from 50-plus yards throughout his career (5 of 19). Don't draft him knowing that he could be without a team in the future. If he somehow sticks with the Ravens, you could always double-back for him off waivers if you want. |
| 1/22/2012 | Torrey Smith, WR, BAL |
Smith scores in title game defeatNews: Baltimore receiver Torrey Smith caught a touchdown pass in the AFC Championship game loss at New England on Sunday. Unfortunately, the Ravens season is over with the Patriots going to the Super Bowl. Smith hauled in a 29-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco in the third quarter of the game to give the Ravens the lead at that point. He finished with three catches for 82 yards and the score. Analysis: Smith had a solid game in the AFC title game loss and should be able to come back strong next season. Smith finished the season with seven touchdown grabs and will enter next year with plenty of upside as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy WR. |
| 1/22/2012 | Anquan Boldin, WR, BAL |
Boldin tops 100 yards in lossNews: Baltimore WR Anquan Boldin had a big game on Sunday in the AFC Championship game at New England. Unfortunately, it wasn't big enough as the Ravens lost with the Patriots headed to the Super Bowl. Boldin caught six passes for 101 yards and had a long catch of 37 yards. He did not score in the game and was targeted by QB Joe Flacco eight times to lead the team. His season is officially over. Analysis: Boldin went for 174 yards and a touchdown in the postseason after having been out since mid-December due to an injury. He's a big-time player and he had a very solid season for the Ravens. Boldin will be worth drafting as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into 2012. |
| 1/22/2012 | Stevan Ridley, RB, NE |
Ridley a healthy inactiveNews: The Patriots made RB Stevan Ridley a healthy inactive on Sunday for the AFC Championship game at home against Baltimore. The Boston Globe had reported that the Patriots were thinking of going with just BenJarvus Green-Ellis for the rest of the playoffs after Ridley had fumble issues against the Texans in the divisional playoff win. Analysis: Ridley had a solid season as a rookie for the Patriots. He played so well this year, in fact, he could be the team's No. 1 RB heading into next season. For now, however, he's unlikely to see much of the ball for the rest of the playoffs as he's inactive for Sunday's AFC title game. Fantasy owners should consider Ridley a sleeper heading into next season. |
| 1/22/2012 | Ed Reed, FS, BAL |
Reed ready for AFC title gameNews: Baltimore DB Ed Reed (ankle) was active for the AFC Championship game on Sunday in New England. Reed tweaked his ankle in last week's AFC Divisional playoff win over Houston. Analysis: Reed is a major part of the Ravens' defense and perhaps the most important defensive playmaker on the team. When healthy, he's a solid Fantasy option in IDP formats. Heading into 2012, Reed is worth a late-round pick in IDP leagues. |
| 1/20/2012 | Michael Turner, RB, ATL |
Turner headed for decline?News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that the Falcons might reduce the role for RB Michael Turner in 2012. Turner turns 30 years old this year. He has 1,189 carries in the past four seasons, and the Falcons want to give more touches to Jacquizz Rodgers, particularly in the screen game. The report says not integrating Rodgers into the offense was one of former offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey’s failings. Now, Turner finished third in the NFL in rushing with 1,340 yards. But despite his production this season, Turner showed signs of wear. He had rushed for over 100 yards once in a span of eight games until gaining 172 in the regular season-ending blowout against Tampa Bay, a team that had clearly quit. His monthly average yards per carry dropped from 5.57 in September to 3.38 in December. His average yards per game (78.8) also was the lowest of his four seasons in Atlanta. Analysis: Does this mean Turner is done as a featured option? No. He can still be productive. He ran behind a weak offensive line. He played with a lingering groin strain. But the Falcons’ line isn’t going to suddenly morph into stars, and injuries are common with older running backs. The move from Mularkey to new offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter was made with an expansion of the passing attack in mind. The good thing for Turner is he can still score touchdowns, and he had 11 this season. He also can easily reach 1,000 rushing yards. Plan on drafting Turner as a low-end No. 1 RB in 2012. Keep in mind he could be heading for a decline, but even 1,000 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns is still desirable in most standard leagues. |
| 1/20/2012 | Jermichael Finley, TE, GB |
Agent: Packers want to lock up FinleyNews: The agent for Packers TE Jermichael Finley told the Green Bay Press-Gazette that the team is interested in signing his client to a long-term deal and to not use the franchise tag. The agent, Blake Baratz, says that while discussions have been ongoing, he wants the team to pay Finley like he's a receiver, not a tight end, because he isn't used like a tight end traditionally is used. That includes if they do use the franchise tag -- the difference between the guaranteed one-year pay for a tight end and a receiver is expected to be roughly $4 million. Head coach Mike McCarthy even made mention of Finley's skills recently, referencing his ability to be a receiver in a number of different spots on the field. Analysis: Finley posted career-best numbers in 2011 but still was dwarfed by the production of the elite tight ends in the NFL. Playing 16 games, Finley caught 55 passes for 767 yards and eight scores, though three of them came in the same game (at Chicago) and four total were scored on the Bears. Only four times in 2011 did he have 10 or more Fantasy points in a game. Finley is an attractive No. 1 tight end who can be had between Rounds 5 and 6 in drafts this summer. |
| 1/20/2012 | Troy Smith, QB, SF |
Steelers sign some interesting playersNews: The Steelers signed six players to reserve/future contracts Friday, with some intriguing names joining the roster. QB Troy Smith and WR Derrick Williams are two notable players, each of whom played elsewhere in the league. Smith started a handful of games just last year with the Niners and spent some time as a backup in Baltimore. Williams, a former Penn State player, was originally a draft choice of the Lions. Others signed are CB Walter McFadden, WR Tyler Beiler, WR David Gilreath and WR Jimmy Young. Analysis: Chances are none of these players will make an impact with the Steelers anytime soon. Leave them off rosters for now. |
| 1/20/2012 | Evan Royster, RB, WAS |
Royster earns role for 2012News: The Redskins official team website reports that RBs Roy Helu and Evan Royster showed enough as rookies in 2011 to earn a split of the job in 2012. Helu emerged as a midseason starter for the Redskins and rushed for 100 yards in three consecutive games – setting a Redskins rookie mark – and finished with a team-best 640 yards and two touchdowns on 151 carries. He also caught 49 passes for 379 yards and one score. Royster stepped into the starting lineup the last two weeks when Helu was slowed by knee and toe injuries. He rushed for 100 yards in both games, finished with 328 yards for the season, and averaged 5.9 yards per carry. “You can see we have some depth,” head coach Mike Shanahan said. “I think Roy has done a fantastic job as well as Royster coming in and taking advantage of an opportunity.” Added offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan: “You feel like you have two guys who can help you in the future.” Analysis: Royster joined the Redskins as a sixth-rounder out of Penn State. After preseason, he ended up on the team’s practice squad. Royster was promoted from the practice squad in Week 12. He made his first NFL start in Week 16 against Minnesota and rushed 132 yards on 19 carries. The following week at Philadelphia, he added 113 yards on 20 carries. “I never expected to start this year,” Royster said. “I was prepared to, though, and I got myself ready every week.” Kyle Shanahan was impressed with Royster’s running style. Said Kyle Shanahan: “He just has a knack for finding the right hole. He’s a very natural running back, he does it with ease. He doesn’t have to press the situation. He just really slow plays it and gets to the gap. He goes one gap at a time and it doesn’t look real flashy. Usually when you’re like that, you’re going to be a good yards-per-carry guy.” We like Royster as a No. 3 Fantasy RB in 2012. Plan on taking him with a late-round pick after Helu. |
| 1/20/2012 | Roy Helu, RB, WAS |
Helu impresses as rookieNews: The Redskins official team website reports that RBs Roy Helu and Evan Royster showed enough as rookies in 2011 to earn a split of the job in 2012. Helu emerged as a midseason starter for the Redskins and rushed for 100 yards in three consecutive games – setting a Redskins rookie mark – and finished with a team-best 640 yards and two touchdowns on 151 carries. He also caught 49 passes for 379 yards and one score. Royster stepped into the starting lineup the last two weeks when Helu was slowed by knee and toe injuries. He rushed for 100 yards in both games, finished with 328 yards for the season, and averaged 5.9 yards per carry. “You can see we have some depth,” head coach Mike Shanahan said. “I think Roy has done a fantastic job as well as Royster coming in and taking advantage of an opportunity.” Added offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan: “You feel like you have two guys who can help you in the future.” Analysis: Helu emerged as the every-down starter and showed an ability to cut back effectively in the Redskins’ zone blocking scheme. He responded by rushing for 108, 100 and 126 yards in the three consecutive games. “He got tougher throughout the [season],” Kyle Shanahan said. “He’s not a tough guy, but he handled the pounding in the NFL. The biggest key with NFL backs, which you can see with Roy, is when you get hit for nothing or one yard, do you follow forward for three yards or do you fall back for zero yards? “He really finished runs well. He was able to turn those 1-yard runs into 3-yard runs. He was able to do it throughout the game and not get worn down by it.” We like Helu as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB heading into 2012. Plan on drafting him with a pick as early as Round 4 in all leagues. |
| 1/20/2012 | Saints, DST NO, |
Spagnuolo takes over Saints DNews: Former St. Louis Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo has agreed to take over as defensive coordinator for with the Saints. Spagnuolo, 52, was head coach in St. Louis the past three seasons and was fired in January after going 10-38 with the Rams. Before that he was defensive coordinator for the Giants, a stint that included a Super Bowl upset of the New England Patriots. Before taking over in St. Louis, Spagnuolo had top 10 defenses with the Giants in the 2007 and 2008 seasons. His 2007 defense led the NFL with 53 sacks and the 2008 unit was sixth in the league with 42. In the Giants' 2008 Super Bowl triumph over New England, their defense sacked Tom Brady five times and the Patriots, who had led the NFL with an average of 36.8 points per game, to only 14 points. Analysis: We've been fans of Spagnuolo's for a long time, and while it didn't work out for him in St. Louis a lot of it can be attributed to offensive issues and injuries. We think there's some good young talent for Spags to mold on the Saints D-line and perhaps an upgrade or two in the secondary could put the defense over the top. Consider them a sleeper unit for 2012. |
| 1/19/2012 | Jerome Simpson, WR, CIN |
Simpson indicted on drug chargeNews: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that WR Jerome Simpson was indicted Thursday on charges that he was trafficking marijuana over eight ounces and less than five pounds. The charge is a Class D felony that could lead to a punishment of one to five years in prison. Simpson posted career-highs in 2011 with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns. Analysis: Simpson is a free agent this offseason and this news will absolutely hurt his value in the NFL marketplace. Until we learn how his situation plays out with the authorities, and how his situation plays out in the NFL, Fantasy owners shouldn't spend anything more than a late-round pick on him. Even if he avoids jail time, a suspension for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy could be around the corner. |
| 1/19/2012 | Chris Johnson, RB, TEN |
Titans sticking with C. JohnsonNews: New Titans GM Ruston Webster addressed the future of RB Chris Johnson as well as his offensive line on Thursday, making it clear that the rusher will be back with the team next season. Johnson is due $8 million in 2012 and posted career-worst numbers after signing a rich contract just before the start of the 2011 season (missing all of training camp). Johnson racked up 1,047 rushing yards, 418 receiving yards and four rushing touchdowns last year behind an offensive line that did a pretty good job in pass protection but did struggle to open up running lanes. "We'll have to work on our run game and make it better," Webster said. "That may entail some things in the offensive line." Analysis: Expect some changes among the big men up front for the Titans, though Johnson himself will have to get his game back up to the level it was at before last season. Johnson had plenty of games where he couldn't show off his speed and often was taken down by the first defender that touched him. We still see Johnson valuable if only because he'll see a lot of work every week and because he has the potential to rack up big numbers. That's why you still might see Johnson get picked between 10th and 15th in your drafts this summer. He'll be a risk no matter what he says or does this offseason because of last year's weak production, but the upside still makes him alluring, as is the opportunity to take him later than you might have in the last two years. |
| 1/19/2012 | Jaguars, TQB JAC, |
Gabbert surrounded by experienceNews: Blaine Gabbert has 72 years of offensive coaching experience surrounding him as he heads into his second year with the Jaguars. Not only did the Jaguars hire Mike Mularkey to be his head coach, but long-time offensive coach Bob Bratkowski has been given the reins of the offense as coordinator and ex-Bucs offensive coordinator Greg Olson is his quarterbacks coach. Analysis: Gabbert has some good tutors to work with but he still needs a lot of help. Specifically, he needs some capable receivers to throw to. If he gets that, and if he has an offense he's got a firm grip on, then we suppose there's potential for him to be a good backup option come Fantasy drafts. The reality is that after throwing 12 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 14 starts, no one is touching Gabbert until he can prove that he's worth owning. It'll be interesting to watch. |
| 1/19/2012 | Jets, TQB NYJ, |
Owner backs SanchezNews: The New York Daily News reports that Jets owner Woody Johnson said Thursday he stands behind QB Mark Sanchez heading into 2012. Several key players and members of the organization questioned Sanchez’s leadership, his work habits on the practice field and the organization’s coddling of the quarterback. “You always try to take care of your quarterback,” Johnson said. “They probably coddle Tom Brady and all the other great quarterbacks in the league as well. Do we overprotect Mark? I don’t think we do. He’s the obviously a critical part of the team. So you spend more time with him. Is that coddling? I don’t know ... I have a lot of confidence in Mark Sanchez. “Despite some of the reports, he’s a very hard worker. He can do everything that you want a quarterback to do. When he has the confidence, which I think he’ll have this year ... he’s had a lot of success in his life. This is probably one of the first years where he’s experienced the New York way. My feeling is that Mark is the kind of guy that will learn from this. We’re going to try to make the offense maybe a little more suitable for what Mark’s development is.” Analysis: Sanchez's numbers -- 3,474 yards on a career-best 56.7 pct. passing with 26 touchdowns and 18 interceptions and eight fumbles lost with six rushing touchdowns -- were the best he's ever had. In fact, Fantasy owners might be shocked to know he finished as the 10th best quarterback in Fantasy Football in standard leagues ahead of Michael Vick, Ben Roethlisberger and Tim Tebow. Still, despite his production in 2011, he should only be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB in 2012, and he is worth drafting with a late-round pick. |
| 1/19/2012 | Dwayne Bowe, WR, KC |
Bowe could get franchise tagNews: According to the Chiefs official website, WR Dwayne Bowe, who is an unrestricted free agent, will be a candidate for the franchise tag. The Chiefs will have to decide on using the tag on either Bowe or fellow free agent CB Brandon Carr. It appears like the Chiefs will do what they can to retain Bowe heading into 2012. Analysis: Though his touchdown production dropped 66 percent from last season, Bowe turned in his second consecutive 1,100-yard season with an 81-catch campaign. He did, however, finish the year with 12 drops (second-most among NFL wide receivers). We expect Bowe to remain with the Chiefs, and he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2012. Plan on drafting him around Round 5. |
| 1/19/2012 | John Kuhn, FB, GB |
Kuhn has MCL injuryNews: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers FB John Kuhn should be fine following his knee injury in the divisional round of the playoffs against the Giants. Kuhn was carted off to the locker room during Green Bay's 37-20 loss to the Giants on Sunday, but the injury does not appear to be serious. Kuhn's agent, Kevin Gold, said that Kuhn suffered a "MCL injury." There is no ACL damage and Kuhn will not require surgery. Kuhn will not play in the Pro Bowl. Analysis: After signing a contract extension to stay in Green Bay, Kuhn had 78 rushing yards, 77 receiving yards and six total touchdowns in 2011. He has the chance to score touchdowns again in 2012, but he should not be drafted in most leagues. |
| 1/19/2012 | Greg Jennings, WR, GB |
Jennings should play in Pro BowlNews: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Packers WR Greg Jennings (rib) should be able to play in the Pro Bowl after getting hurt in the divisional round of the playoffs against the Giants. "It's better than we thought initially after the game, so that's good news," coach Mike McCarthy said Wednesday. "Greg Jennings had a rib contusion and my understanding is he will play in the Pro Bowl." Analysis: Jennings was limited to 40 yards on four catches before leaving in the fourth quarter due to a rib injury. Jennings should be fine heading into 2012, and he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues. Plan on drafting him as early as Round 2 or 3 in all formats. |
| 1/18/2012 | Arian Foster, RB, HOU |
Foster skipping Pro BowlNews: The Houston Chronicle reports that Texans RB Arian Foster, who was selected to his second Pro Bowl, won’t play because of an injury to his foot. There was no mention of the injury following Foster's performance against Baltimore in the divisional round of the playoffs when he ran for 132 yards and a touchdown and also caught five passes for 22 yards. The report says the Texans also would like to sign Foster to a long-term deal. If they are unable to, they will tender him at the maximum and would match any offer he receives from another team. Analysis: We expect Foster to be fine heading into 2012, and hopefully the Texans can work out an extension with him. Consider Foster a No. 1 RB heading into next year, and he is definitely worth drafting at No. 1 overall. He led all non-quarterbacks in standard Fantasy leagues with 18.3 points per week. |
| 1/18/2012 | Tim Tebow, QB, DEN |
Tebow played hurt vs. PatsNews: Tim Tebow is expected to make a full recovery, without surgery, from rib, lung and chest injuries he sustained in the Broncos' loss at New England in an AFC divisional playoff game last weekend. ESPN first reported Wednesday that Tebow got hurt on a third-quarter tackle during Denver's 45-10 loss, then had trouble sleeping because of the pain and underwent an MRI on his chest Monday. According to the report, Tebow tore cartilage on his first rib, bruised his lung and had fluid buildup in the plural space of his chest. Team spokesman Patrick Smyth said that while he couldn't confirm the exact extent or nature of the injuries due to team policy, he acknowledged that Tebow finished the game in considerable pain. The injuries aren't expected to interfere with Tebow's offseason training program. Analysis: Broncos chief of football operations John Elway proclaimed Tebow the incumbent starter at a season-ending news conference Monday, but Tebow said Tuesday that he's not treating his offseason any differently, saying he'll do what it takes to get better. He should open the 2012 season as the starter but he should be drafted as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB. Expect him to get picked starting in Round 8, and he can be considered a starter when the matchup is right. |
| 1/17/2012 | Cedric Benson, RB, CIN |
Benson unhappy in Cincinnati?News: Cedric Benson admitted that he "wasn't a big fan" of the changes made to the Bengals' offense in 2011. Both Benson and offensive coordinator Jay Gruden spoke to the Cincinnati Enquirer about the Bengals' run game, which finished the season ranked 19th in the league and accounted for 10 touchdowns; only nine teams did worse. Benson did not like splitting reps with Bernard Scott. "I don't know what the future's going to hold. You never know going into being a free agent, things like that," said Benson. " ... I wasn’t a big fan of [the offensive changes]. Granted I don't make those decisions or calls and I have to find a way to make it work. It was something they started soon after the first game. There was a vision where they saw the offense going. I may not like it or agree with it but I’ll make it work if given the opportunity." Gruden had this response to the Benson-Scott balancing act: "From a consistency standpoint you'd like to get Bernard more carries, more touches and Cedric has earned the right to be a feature back. ... The more you give it to Bernard the more you've got Cedric over there scratching his head and not real happy. Really, to me, on a good football team nobody should worry about who's scoring or who's getting the ball so long as the team is moving." Analysis: To be fair, he did rush for over 1,000 yards for the third straight season (though his rushing numbers have dipped in each of his last three seasons) and put up six touchdowns -- he's had at least that many in each of his last three. And while he didn't have all the carries for the Bengals, he still put up 273 totes and had 67 percent of all carries among the running backs. While we think Benson has some gas left in the tank -- he has only 1,529 career carries in seven seasons -- the days of him being an effective every-down back are numbered. This was his first season in three years averaging less than 20 carries per game (18.2 per 2011 contest) and we could see him trend downward while sharing with another back. Assuming that's the case, we wouldn't trust Benson as anything more than a No. 3 RB on Draft Day. He's become mid-round pick material. |
| 1/17/2012 | Nate Kaeding, K, SD |
Kaeding expects to be healthyNews: It didn't take long for San Diego K Nate Kaeding to suffer an injury this past season. After all, he tore his ACL while attempting to make a tackle on the first kickoff of the year. Now, Kaeding, who was placed on injured reserve after Week 1, is expected to begin kicking by the end of January. "I’m confident this thing will heal up. I’m ahead of schedule if anything," Kaeding said. "I’ll pick up where I left off. ... It’s given me a little different perspective on the game certainly and it’s without a doubt rejuvenated me." Analysis: Kaeding had missed only three games during his eight-year career prior to his setback during the first game of the season. With Kaeding sidelined, the Chargers brought in Nick Novak, who and connected on 27 of his 34 field-goal attempts in his absence. Both kickers are under contract through 2012 and Kaeding hopes to stay in San Diego for the rest of his career. Kaeding ranks as the NFL's most accurate regular-season kicker (86.5) and is a solid Fantasy option. Fantasy owners should monitor his status during the offseason. |
| 1/17/2012 | Falcons, DST ATL, |
Falcons net Nolan for DCNews: Mike Nolan left as Miami's defensive coordinator after being hired to the same position with Atlanta, the Falcons announced Tuesday. Nolan’s spent the last two seasons as defensive coordinator with the Dolphins. He also served as defensive coordinator with Denver, Baltimore, Washington and with both New York teams; the Jets and Giants. Nolan also had an unsuccessful stint as San Francisco's head coach. Analysis: Atlanta was in search of a new defensive coordinator after Brian VanGorder left the team to return to the college level at Auburn, where he will serve in the same capacity. The Falcons' defense often showed its age during the past season and permitted an average of 21.9 points per game. Atlanta struggled to effectively rush opposing quarterbacks, including within its own division against Cam Newton and Drew Brees, and surrendered 236.6 passing yards a week. Fantasy owners should not plan on selecting the Falcons DST in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/17/2012 | Ted Ginn, WR, SF |
Ginn still limpingNews: The San Jose Mercury News reports that 49ers WR Ted Ginn entered the training facility Monday with virtually the same limp he's had for nearly a month. But Ginn did not have his tender right ankle in an orthopedic boot or a brace on the right knee that forced him out of Saturday's game against New Orleans. He is expected to play in the NFC Championship Game against the Giants. Analysis: Ginn is just a return man for the 49ers and has minimal Fantasy value as a WR. Ignore him in all playoff challenge games, and he is not worth drafting in most leagues in 2012. |
| 1/17/2012 | Delanie Walker, TE, SF |
Walker ready for returnNews: San Francisco tight end Delanie Walker has returned to practice for the first time since breaking his left jaw in two places late in the regular season and hopes to be healthy enough to play in the NFC championship game. Walker had the wires removed on Monday and took part in practice on a limited basis with no contact on Wednesday. He was out there again during the open media portion on Thursday. "I didn't do too much, so I won't say I was rusty," Walker said before Thursday's practice. "I feel like I was good. Everybody said I looked faster and that I looked like I was over-hyper. Because you get back on the field, you try to do everything full speed." Analysis: Keep an eye on Walker's status, but he has minimal Fantasy value in any playoff challenge games. And heading into 2012, Walker should not be drafted in the majority of leagues. He is the No. 2 TE in San Francisco behind Vernon Davis. |
| 1/16/2012 | C.J. Spiller, RB, BUF |
Spiller works into timeshareNews: With a highly productive second half of the season, Buffalo RB C.J. Spiller has launched himself into the team's offensive plans for next year even with the expected return of RB Fred Jackson. After Jackson was placed on injured reserve with a broken fibula, Spiller emerged as a strong threat and recorded 446 rushing yards in the last six games of the season. "I’m just going to come in and work out," Spiller said. "Go out there and run the ball. We know that we’ve got a good one-two punch, possibly the best one-two punch in the NFL if we know how to use it." Analysis: Spiller is still expected to enter training camp next year as the backup to Jackson, but it is unlikely there will be a huge disparity in carries. "I wouldn’t call it 50-50, but it’s closer to 50-50 than it ever has been because (Spiller’s) more confident and we have more confidence in him having experience now," Bills coach Chan Gailey said. "It’s not a win-win for each of them individually because neither one of them will get the ball as much as they want to." Fantasy owners should keep track of the situation during the offseason and target Spiller with a selection in the early middle rounds of most 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/16/2012 | Nick Collins, FS, GB |
Doctor will determine Collins' futureNews: Green Bay DB Nick Collins, who suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 2, told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that a meeting with his doctor in March will dictate whether he continues to play. "If the doctor says I can go back, I'm definitely going to go back," Collins said Monday. "If he says to stop, I'm definitely stopping." Analysis: Collins added he won't "linger around: making the Packers wait for a decision on whether he’ll return to football. "That’s not the type of person I am," he said. "I want them to be able to make a decision early. Maybe they want to draft somebody." Collins entered the 2011 season with 17 total interceptions in his previous three seasons before the injury. He should be considered a low-end option in Fantasy IDP formats if he continues playing. |
| 1/16/2012 | Rams, DST STL, |
Rams bring in new DCNews: New St. Louis coach Jeff Fisher is expected to add former New Orleans defensive coordinator Gregg Williams to the same position with the Rams, according to numerous reports. Williams, who has served as the Saints' defensive coordinator for the past three seasons, said on Thursday that he and Fisher are "best friends." St. Louis surrendered 25.4 points per game this past season -- the fourth highest total in the NFC. Analysis: Williams' departure has been rumored since Fisher accepted the job with the Rams. He will be tasked with repairing the team's woeful rushing defense that ranked 31st in the NFL last season (152.1 yards per game). Injuries crippled the unit throughout the season and the team is expected to make several player changes. For now, Fantasy owners should not consider St. Louis a worthwhile DST option in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/16/2012 | Donald Driver, WR, GB |
Driver has no plans to retireNews: Green Bay WR Donald Driver said he wants to continue his career, either with the Packers or another team, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Driver, 36, has stated before he wants to play until he is 40 years old. "I have plenty (of years)," Driver said. "The thing is, it's not up to me. The Packers have to make that decision. If they decide to keep me, I'll come back. If not, I guess I have to go somewhere else to play. That's always been my goal -- to retire here. It's going to be up to them to make that decision." Analysis: Driver finished with 37 receptions for 445 yards and six touchdowns during the regular season as he was overshadowed by several, younger Green Bay receivers this year. During Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Giants, Driver posted three catches for 45 yards and a late touchdown. Unfortunately for Driver, he is on the downside of his career and should not be considered a worthwhile option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/15/2012 | Packers, DST GB, |
Packers can't slow down Giants in playoffsNews: The Packers defense had a hard time slowing down the Giants in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game. Green Bay surrendered 420 yards of total offense, including 325 through the air, in the 37-20 loss. DB Morgan Burnett recorded his team's lone turnover when he picked off QB Eli Manning and the Packers posted one sack. Analysis: The Packers were a solid option in Fantasy all season long but not for their ability to limit teams. Their defense collected 32 interceptions with 29 sacks, and also provided seven DST scores. Green Bay has the players to be a top defense in the NFL so keep an eye on what moves they make in the offseason. But considering most of their talent will be coming back, target the Packers DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day. |
| 1/15/2012 | Mason Crosby, K, GB |
Crosby makes both FGs vs. GiantsNews: Packers K Mason Crosby did not miss an attempt in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game against the Giants. He made both of his field goals and converted two extra points in the 37-20 loss. Crosby made his attempts from distances of 35 and 47 yards. Analysis: Crosby has been a productive option in Fantasy since coming to the NFL in 2007 and it doesn't hurt that he kicks for a high-scoring offense either. He has made 50 percent of his attempts from 50-plus yards in his career, and his strong leg negates the whirling winds in Green Bay. He will be a top option in Fantasy again in 2012 so take Crosby as one of the first Fantasy K on Draft Day. |
| 1/15/2012 | Jordy Nelson, WR, GB |
Nelson kept quiet by GiantsNews: After posting five touchdowns over the final two contests of the regular season, Packers WR Jordy Nelson was held in check by the Giants in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game. He caught just three passes for 39 yards in the 37-20 loss. He had a long reception of 17 and averaged 13 yards per grab. Nelson, who was targeted seven times, finished third on Green Bay in receiving behind WRs Donald Driver (45 yards) and Greg Jennings (40 yards). Analysis: Nelson burst onto the Fantasy scene this season with 15 touchdowns and 1,263 yards receiving during the regular season. He averaged 18.6 yards per grab and had seven catches of 40-plus yards. While the Giants were able to hold him in check on Sunday, the 26-year-old has a ton of upside in the Packers' pass-happy scene and will be a hot commodity on Draft Day. Consider Nelson a No. 1 Fantasy WR for 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | Ryan Grant, RB, GB |
Not much from Grant in playoffsNews: Packers RB Ryan Grant did not see a ton of touches in the Divisional Playoff game against the Giants on Sunday. He gained 33 yards on eight carries and caught three passes for 17 yards in the 37-20 loss. He also lost a fumble. Grant had a long run of 19 and averaged 4.1 yards per carry. He finished third on Green Bay in rushing behind QB Aaron Rodgers (66 yards) and RB James Starks (43 yards). Analysis: Grant saw more carries than Starks on Sunday but was not as productive as his fellow RB. Due to the two splitting carries all season long, he rushed for 559 yards and two touchdowns during the regular season and also had a score through the air. The 29-year-old will not be able to get back over the 1,000-yard mark as long as Starks is in Green Bay, which limits his value in Fantasy. Consider Grant a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy RB on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | Vikings, DST MIN, |
Vikings sack defensive coordinatorNews: The Minnesota Vikings relieved Fred Pagac of his duties as defensive coordinator on Sunday, but offered to let him stay on as linebackers coach, according to the Pioneer Press. The move indicates that current LB coach Mike Singletary, who has interviewed for the coordinator job, will either receive a promotion or will be released by the organization. Pagac spent one season as the Vikings' defensive coordinator. Analysis: After finishing among the top two teams in run defense from 2005-09, Minnesota dropped to 11th last season after permitting an average of 107 yards per game. The Vikings were often on the losing side of routs this past year and surrendered an average of 28.1 points a week -- second most in the league behind only Tampa Bay (30.9). Fantasy owners should consider Minnesota a No. 2 Fantasy DST for the 2012 campaign for now. |
| 1/15/2012 | Brooks Reed, OLB, HOU |
Reed has strong postseason showingNews: Texans LB Brooks Reed totaled eight tackles (six solo) and 2 1/2 sacks during a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens on Sunday. He also had one forced fumble. Reed had 3 1/2 sacks in two playoff games. Analysis: Reed had six sacks during the regular season -- all coming in a five-game stretch from Week 7-12. However, Reed got stronger as his rookie season progressed and should continue to make great strides in 2012. However, he is an outside LB in a 3-4 scheme, so unless he gets a sack, then he usually doesn't post great tackle totals. Reed will remain a late-round Fantasy LB in IDP formats in 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | J.J. Watt, DE, HOU |
Watt has solid playoff runNews: Texans DL J.J. Watt totaled 12 tackles (nine solo) and 2 1/2 sacks during a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens on Sunday. He had 3 1/2 sacks, one interception and one touchdown in two playoff games. Analysis: Watt finished the regular season with just 5 1/2 sacks, but what the stats don't show is that the rookie really developed as a solid pass rusher down the stretch. His playoff performance shows his growth and Watt is going to be a popular Fantasy DL in IDP formats in 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | Neil Rackers, K, HOU |
Rackers' successful season endsNews: Texans K Neil Rackers almost had a perfect day in a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens on Sunday. Rackers' only blemish came as his 50-yard field-goal attempt in the third quarter hit the crossbar. Rackers converted from 33 and 40 yards, while making his lone extra point. Analysis: Rackers had quite a productive season for the Texans. He had 10 or more points in seven games this season. He made 32 field goals during the regular season, which was the second most in his career. Rackers is a free agent. If he returns to Houston, then he should be drafted in the late rounds in 2012 as a viable Fantasy option. If he signs somewhere else, then evaluate Rackers' situation before taking a flier on him. |
| 1/15/2012 | Owen Daniels, TE, HOU |
Daniels quiet as Texans loseNews: Texans TE Owen Daniels managed two catches for 26 yards in a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens on Sunday. He was targeted three times. Analysis: Daniels' numbers really suffered in the second half of the season for two reasons. First, the Texans became a run-heavy team as the team dealt with Andre Johnson's hamstring injury. Also, the loss of QB Matt Schaub meant Daniels worked with rookie QB T.J. Yates down the stretch. Schaub should be back by the start of next season, which is good news for Daniels. Consider him a viable No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day. |
| 1/15/2012 | Ben Tate, RB, HOU |
Tate doesn't touch ball vs. RavensNews: Texans RB Ben Tate was held off the stat sheet in Sunday's playoff loss to the Ravens. Tate didn't get one carry and was targeted just once in the passing game, which ended up an incomplete pass. Analysis: Tate came into Sunday's game with a shoulder injury, so you have to wonder if he was more hurt than everyone thought. Arian Foster had a good game, but Tate always got plenty of carries this season as a way to rest Foster at times. Tate rushed for 942 yards in 2011 and proved he recovered from the knee injury that robbed him of his rookie year in 2010. Tate could definitely be a starting back in the NFL, but he will once again be a backup RB in 2012 if the Texans bring back Foster, who is a restricted free agent. Foster should be back, so consider Tate a No. 3 Fantasy RB on Draft Day. |
| 1/15/2012 | Texans, TQB HOU, |
Yates throws three picks in lossNews: The Texans couldn't overcome three interceptions thrown by QB T.J. Yates in a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens on Sunday. The final interception proved to be the most costly as Yates was driving Houston for the game-tying score with 2 minutes left, but his deep pass intended for Andre Johnson was picked off by Ed Reed at Baltimore's 4-yard line. Yates completed 17 of 35 passes for 184 yards. Analysis: Yates shouldn't feel too bad about losing to the Ravens, who have one of the best defenses in the NFL. Yates stepped up for Houston down the stretch after Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart ended up on IR. Yates had some good performances, but he also performed like a rookie QB at times, which happened Sunday. As long as Schaub recovers from his foot injury, then he will be the Texans' starting QB in 2012. Don't plan on drafting Yates unless something changes with his status. |
| 1/15/2012 | Andre Johnson, WR, HOU |
Johnson targeted 15 times in lossNews: Texans WR Andre Johnson went over 100 yards in a 20-13 Divisional playoff loss to the Ravens. Johnson led the team with 111 yards on eight catches, with his longest reception going 19 yards. Johnson was also targeted 15 times in the loss. Analysis: Johnson's 2011 season will be remembered for the nine games he missed because of hamstring problems. But he totaled 13 catches for 201 yards and one touchdown in two playoff games, which should give Fantasy owners plenty of confidence drafting him as a No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2012. Let's just hope he is past his hamstring issues moving forward. |
| 1/15/2012 | Texans, DST HOU, |
Texans defense strong in lossNews: The Texans were able to bottle up Ravens RB Ray Rice on Sunday, but it wasn't enough in a 20-13 loss in the Divisional round of the playoffs. Rice managed just 60 rushing yards on 21 carries, while having no gain longer than 9 yards. He also was held to four catches for 20 yards, but QB Joe Flacco fired two touchdown passes as Houston was eliminated from the playoffs. The Texans held Baltimore to 227 yards and sacked Flacco five times. Unfortunately, Houston forced no turnovers. Analysis: Houston went from one of the worst defenses in the NFL to one of the best in 2011. That was largely in part to some key personnel changes, but mostly because of the arrival of defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. He transitioned Houston to a 3-4 defense and it proved to be a great move for the Texans. Phillips has said he wants to be a head coach again, but if he returns to Houston in 2012, then the Texans DST will be a must-own Fantasy option on Draft Day. Keep tabs on what happens in Houston this offseason. |
| 1/14/2012 | Jimmy Graham, TE, NO |
Graham overcomes head scareNews: New Orleans TE Jimmy Graham had five catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Graham, who briefly left the game during the first quarter, appeared to haul in the game-winning touchdown pass with 1:48 remaining to give New Orleans a 32-29 lead in the fourth. But the 49ers scored with 14 seconds left to eliminate the Saints and Graham after he recorded a touchdown for the fifth consecutive game, including the regular season. Analysis: Graham limped off the field in the first quarter after getting tangled up with DB Donte Whitner and officials called a 23-yard pass interference penalty on Whitner during the play. But the 25-year-old was able to return for New Orleans’ next possession and caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from QB Drew Brees in the second quarter. He stayed active the remainder of the game and finished with eight targets from Brees. Graham was a dominant force for the Saints this year and should be targeted with an early-round selection in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/15/2012 | Demaryius Thomas, WR, DEN |
Thomas leads air attackNews: Denver didn't have a lot of success offensively on Saturday in New England as they lost the playoff game, 45-10. WR Demaryius Thomas was a bright spot for the Broncos as he caught six passes for 93 yards. He was targeted 10 times by Tim Tebow. Analysis: Thomas caught the game-winning touchdown in the Wild Card game against the Steelers and become Tebow's favorite target by the end of the season. He finished the year with 32 catches for 551 yards and four scores in 11 games. With him cemented as the team's top receiver heading into 2012, Thomas will be worth a late-round pick on Draft Day. |
| 1/15/2012 | Willis McGahee, RB, DEN |
McGahee leads ground attackNews: Denver RB Willis McGahee was one of the few bright spots on Saturday for the Broncos. He carried the ball 17 times for 76 yards and scored on a 5-yard scamper in the second quarter. That would be the only touchdown the Broncos could muster as they lost to the Patriots, 45-10. He was also targeted twice in the passing game, but did not catch a pass. Analysis: McGahee did everything he could on Saturday, but it wasn't enough to keep the Broncos season alive. He rushed for 279 yards over the final three weeks of the regular season and went over 1,000 yards on the ground for the fourth time in his career. He managed just four touchdowns though, as the Denver offense struggled. Fantasy owners should consider McGahee a viable RB option on Draft Day in 2012, worthy of a mid-round selection. |
| 1/15/2012 | Lance Ball, RB, DEN |
Ball has nice outingNews: Broncos RB Lance Ball carried the ball 13 times for 44 yards in Saturday's 45-10 loss to the Patriots. He was the second-leading rusher on the team behind Willis McGahee. Ball was also targeted once in the contest, but could not haul it in. Analysis: Ball had a few nice outings when McGahee was injured during the regular season. He totaled 402 yards on the ground and had one score during the regular season. Fantasy owners should consider Ball a handcuff option for McGahee in 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | Eddie Royal, WR, DEN |
Royal barely contributesNews: Denver WR Eddie Royal managed to catch two passes thrown his way on Saturday in New England. Tim Tebow targeted him eight times, but Royal couldn't haul them in. He finished with 25 yards receiving and one carry for 1 yard. The Broncos would lose the game, 45-10. Analysis: Denver and Fantasy owners weren't too happy with Royal's production in 2011 as he managed just 155 receiving yards in 12 games. He has a lot of work to do in the offseason if he wants to get back into the mix next year. As of right now, Royal is not worthy of drafting this fall, but things could change between now and then. Keep tabs on him during the offseason. |
| 1/15/2012 | Matt Prater, K, DEN |
Prater has slow nightNews: Denver's offense didn't do much on Saturday night in New England. With the lack of opportunity's kicker Matt Prater didn't see much time on the field. He hit his lone extra-point attempt and booted a 41-yard field goal later in the third quarter. The Broncos would lose the game, 45-10. Analysis: Prater came up big for the Broncos this year, winning four game for them. But Denver's offensive struggles led to a sub-par season for Prater. While he has a good home venue to kick in, Prater can't help move the ball. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end kicking option in 2012. |
| 1/15/2012 | NaVorro Bowman, ILB, SF |
Bowman doubles up againNews: San Francisco LB NaVorro Bowman shared the team lead with 11 tackles during the 49ers' 36-32 victory over New Orleans in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Ten of Bowman's stops were solo tackles as he topped double-digits for the eighth time this season. Analysis: Bowman has evolved into one of the league's best tacklers and finished seventh in the NFL with 143 tackles during the regular season. He should continue to be a dominant force in the NFC Championship, and should be viewed as a high-end option in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/15/2012 | Dashon Goldson, FS, SF |
Goldson golden in playoff winNews: San Francisco DB Dashon Goldson finished with 11 individual tackles and two passes defended during the 49ers' 36-32 victory over New Orleans in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Goldson's total matched the team lead with LB NaVorro Bowman. Analysis: Goldson topped double figures in tackles only once during the regular season before turning in a strong performance against the Saints. He also ranked fourth in the NFL with six interceptions during the regular season and should be viewed as a viable option in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/15/2012 | Kendall Hunter, RB, SF |
Hunter slowed in playoffsNews: San Francisco RB Kendall Hunter tallied 23 yards on six carries during the 49ers' 36-32 victory over New Orleans in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Hunter had a long gain of 11 yards as he posted an average of 3.8 yards per attempt. He also had one catch for 13 yards. Analysis: Hunter took a backseat Saturday's game as the 49ers utilized a surprisingly effective passing performance. He also finished with 66 fewer yards than starting RB Frank Gore, who also matched the team lead with seven receptions. Hunter will continue to be used as a change-of-pace back and his scoring opportunities will be limited in the NFC Championship. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option in playoff formats for now. |
| 1/14/2012 | Darren Sproles, RB, NO |
Sproles catches playoff recordNews: New Orleans RB Darren Sproles tallied 15 receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Sproles' impressive catch total established an NFL playoff record as he collected 19 targets from QB Drew Brees. Sproles also had a 44-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter to give New Orleans its first lead of the game. Analysis: Like many of the Saints' running backs, Sproles managed little on the ground and finished with 3 yards on three carries against the 49ers' top-ranked defense. Sproles was a dynamic fixture in New Orleans' offense during the regular season and was among the league leaders with 86 receptions for 710 yards and seven touchdowns -- as a running back. Fantasy owners should consider Sproles with an early-round selection in 2012 drafts as the 28-year-old could come close to duplicating his production from this season. |
| 1/14/2012 | Roman Harper, SS, NO |
Harper makes playoff impactNews: New Orleans DB Roman Harper notched eight tackles and 1 1/2 sacks during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Harper was able to take down 49ers QB Alex Smith twice and also forced a fumble on one of the plays. Analysis: Harper continued to be strong in reaching the quarterback and registering a career-high 7 1/2 sacks during the regular season. The 29-year-old, who shared the team lead for tackles on Saturday, also had 95 stops. Consider him a high-end option in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/14/2012 | Malcolm Jenkins, FS, NO |
Jenkins shares tackle leadNews: New Orleans DB Malcolm Jenkins recorded eight tackles and a sack during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. All of Jenkins' tackles were solo stops as he shared the team lead with fellow DB Roman Harper. Analysis: Jenkins was able to stay active for the playoffs after being limited by a neck injury at the end of the regular season. He also recorded a pass defended in Saturday's game as he closed the year without an interception. Consider him a low-end option in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/14/2012 | John Kasay, K, NO |
Kasay makes Saints historyNews: New Orleans K John Kasay converted a field goal and three extra points during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Kasay booted a 48-yard attempt at the beginning of the fourth quarter -- the longest field goal ever in New Orleans franchise history. Analysis: Kasay was an admirable replacement for K Garrett Hartley after he went down with an injury and connected on 82.4 percent of his field goals during the regular season (28 of 34). However, with Hartley expected to return from his injury and regain the kicking job, Kasay will likely seek work elsewhere for 2012. For now, Fantasy owners should not consider the 42-year-old a worthy K option in drafts for next season. |
| 1/14/2012 | Robert Meachem, WR, NO |
Meachem shakes off injuryNews: New Orleans WR Robert Meachem registered three catches for only 18 yards during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Meachem posted four targets from QB Drew Brees as he briefly left the game in the second half. Meachem, who was listed as probable for the game with a leg injury, limped to the locker room during the third quarter before returning for the rest of the contest. Analysis: Meachem's performance was a far cry from his outing a week ago when he finished with 111 yards and a touchdown in a victory over Detroit. He was supposed to receive more looks with WR Lance Moore sidelined with an injury, but his own issue appeared to limit his production on Saturday. Fantasy owners should keep an eye for any lingering effects of an injury, but he is not considered a worthwhile WR option in most 2012 drafts. |
| 1/14/2012 | Devery Henderson, WR, NO |
Henderson limited in playoff lossNews: New Orleans WR Devery Henderson recorded four catches for 49 yards during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Henderson was targeted eight times by QB Drew Brees, but he managed just a long gain of 19 yards. After posting 100-yard performances in each of the first two weeks of the season, Henderson was unable to reach that mark again this year, including the postseason. Analysis: Henderson scored a touchdown in New Orleans' first playoff game, but was unable to reach the end zone again as three different receivers connected with Brees. Henderson's production is limited by the Saints' spread offense, which makes him an unreliable Fantasy option and he finished with only two touchdowns in the regular season. Fantasy owners should not consider Henderson a worthwhile option in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/14/2012 | Chris Ivory, RB, NO |
49ers bottle up IvoryNews: New Orleans RB Chris Ivory rushed for 23 yards on nine carries during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Ivory paced New Orleans as the team managed just 37 total rushing yards against the 49ers' top-ranked run defense. Analysis: Ivory -- and the rest of the Saints' running backs -- were not expected to find much running room as San Francisco had permitted just 77.3 rushing yards per game during the regular season. The 49ers quickly swarmed Ivory throughout the contest and he netted a long gain of just 7 yards. Ivory will have competition in the backfield next season with the return of RB Mark Ingram from an injury. Fantasy owners should not consider Ivory a worthwhile option in the majority of 2012 Fantasy drafts for now. |
| 1/14/2012 | Marques Colston, WR, NO |
Colston paces Saints receiversNews: New Orleans WR Marques Colston registered nine catches for a team-high 136 yards and a touchdown during the Saints' 36-32 loss to San Francisco in their NFC Divisional Playoff game on Saturday. Colston, who racked up 12 targets from QB Drew Brees, was also one of three New Orleans receivers to top 100 yards in the game. He connected with Brees on a 25-yard touchdown strike during the second quarter to pull the Saints within three points of the lead going into halftime. Analysis: Colston overcame a slow start to the season and displayed his standout form to help New Orleans secure a spot in the playoffs. He netted at least 120 yards receiving in each of his past three games, including the regular season, and finished with three touchdowns. Colston remains the Saints' top playmaker downfield and finished with 15.1 yards per catch during Saturday's game. Fantasy owners should continue to target him as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR and he is unlikely to slip past the fourth round in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/14/2012 | Pierre Thomas, RB, NO |
Thomas out with head injuryNews: New Orleans RB Pierre Thomas left in the first quarter after taking a hit to the head against San Francisco in their NFC divisional round playoff on Saturday and will not return. Thomas caught a pass from QB Drew Brees on the Saints’ opening drive and absorbed a vicious blow from DB Donte Whitner just short of the goal line. Whitner jarred the ball loose, and Patrick Willis recovered for the 49ers at their own 2-yard line. Analysis: Thomas' reception was his first catch of the game and went for 5 yards. He also recorded one carry for six yards as New Orleans has struggled to move the ball against San Francisco's top-ranked run defense. Thomas nearly matched his rushing total (562) with his receiving output (425) as the Saints favored passing the ball during the regular season. Fantasy owners should monitor Thomas' status as he could some playing time if New Orleans advances. Consider him an option in the later rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/14/2012 | Eric Decker, WR, DEN |
Decker inactive as expectedNews: As expected Broncos WR Eric Decker was inactive for Saturday's contest against the Patriots. He's dealing with a sprained MCL. Analysis: Decker was held without a reception before departing Sunday and has been in a tailspin prior to the injury. Keep him out of Playoff Fantasy formats. Expect the big receiver to get some middle- to late-round consideration in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/14/2012 | Lance Moore, WR, NO |
Moore not playing in San FranciscoNews: Saints WR Lance Moore was inactive once again for Saturday's Divisional Playoff game at San Francisco. Moore continued to miss practice all week after not playing last weekend as he continues to deal with a hamstring injury. The injury was suffered Week 16 and Moore has yet to return for the Saints. Analysis: Moore has been spotted on the practice field at times and might be nearing a return should the Saints advance. Still, he's out for Saturday and the Saints will go to other options as they have the last few weeks. Owners can look to Robert Meachem as a phenomenal sleeper, especially after he had a productive game against the Lions in the Wild Card round. Moore should be left off rosters in Fantasy at this time. |
| 1/13/2012 | Steve Smith, WR, CAR |
Smith wants to extend careerNews: The Charlotte Observer reports that Panthers WR Steve Smith said Friday he believes he can be effective for another four years. Smith, who will be 33 in May, is entering the final year of his contract. I hope I can play four more years at a pretty decent level. I'm not the prototype receiver, so I'm kind of breaking the mold, anyway,” Smith said. “If I keep taking care of my body. I haven't really had any really bad injuries, except for (breaking) my forearm and my ankle. I take a pretty good pounding during the game – many car wrecks – and my body turns over pretty good. I've had aches and pains, but nothing extreme.” Analysis: Smith was amazing in 2011, his first with QB Cam Newton. Smith finished with the third-best season of his career, catching 79 passes for 1,394 yards and seven touchdowns. He should be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2012, and he is worth drafting with an early-round selection. Hopefully he can hold up over the next several years, but we'd settle for one more quality season in 2012. |
| 1/13/2012 | Kyle Williams, WR, SF |
Williams listed as questionableNews: 49ers WR Kyle Williams was limited in practice all week as he is still coming back from a concussion suffered in Week 16 and is listed as questionable for the team's Divisional Playoff game vs. the Saints. Analysis: Williams was getting more playing time before he got hurt and would serve as a low-end starting option in Playoff Fantasy formats in the event he is able to play on Saturday. |
| 1/13/2012 | Craig Stevens, TE, TEN |
Stevens gets new dealNews: The Tennessean reports the Titans have agreed to terms with TE Craig Stevens on a new four-year contract worth roughly $15 million. "I am extremely grateful and glad they brought me back," he said. "I love this city and team." Stevens, a four-year veteran who caught nine passes for 174 yards in 2011, was scheduled to become a free agent in March. Analysis: Stevens is a blocking TE and has minimal Fantasy value. It's a nice reward that he got paid, but he should not be drafted in the majority of leagues in 2012. |
| 1/13/2012 | Kevin Ogletree, WR, DAL |
Ogletree not staying in Big D?News: The Dallas Morning News speculates that WR Kevin Ogletree won't return to the Cowboys in 2012 after he was outplayed by Laurent Robinson for the No. 3 WR job. Analysis: Ogletree posted career-highs with 15 catches for 164 yards in 2011. He's going to have to fight for a job wherever he is in 2012. |
| 1/13/2012 | Jon Kitna, QB, DAL |
Report: Kitna to retireNews: The Dallas Morning News reports that QB Jon Kitna has informed the Cowboys that he intends to retire. A lingering back injury forced Kitna onto injured reserve in 2011. Stephen McGee is slated to be the Cowboys backup quarterback going forward. Analysis: Kitna's career ends with 29,745 passing yards, 169 touchdowns and 165 interceptions. He'll especially be remembered for his two years working with Mike Martz in Detroit, where he had a pair of 4,000-yard seasons (his only two) and 39 passing touchdowns. |
| 1/13/2012 | Jaguars, DST JAC, |
Jags keep DC TuckerNews: The Jaguars have retained defensive coordinator Mel Tucker, who was the interim coach after Jack Del Rio was fired in November and interviewed for the head job. Tucker also interviewed to be Minnesota's defensive coordinator. Jacksonville's defense flourished under Tucker last season, finishing sixth in the league despite several key injuries. Analysis: This is a big positive for Jacksonville, one of the surprise defenses of the year thanks in big part to their strong cornerbacks, linebackers and defensive tackles. They'll add some quality players this offseason and have a chance at being a capable DST come the 2012 season. We might consider them worth a late-round pick in deeper leagues. |
| 1/12/2012 | Evan Moore, TE, CLE |
GM: Moore not a full-time playerNews: Browns GM Tom Heckert told 92.3 The Fan in Cleveland on Thursday that TE Evan Moore didn't get many opportunities to post big stats in 2011 because he wasn't the starter, and that it's unlikely he'll get a lot of opportunities in the future. "He is a weapon, a big tall kid, a wide receiver playing as a tight end," Heckert said. "... Hopefully he'll be a 30-play-a-game kind of guy. He's not going to play 60 plays a game, that's just how it is." Analysis: Moore had a great preseason and some Fantasy owners had hopes that it would translate into a big 2011. Instead, he caught 34 passes for 324 yards (9.5 avg.) and four touchdowns. While those were career-highs, they weren't exactly great for Fantasy purposes. And now that we know that a high-ranking Browns executive doesn't view Moore in the mold of an Aaron Hernandez, Fantasy owners shouldn't bark up his tree this summer. |
| 1/12/2012 | Mark Ingram, RB, NO |
Ingram OK after toe surgeryNews: Saints head coach Sean Payton said Thursday that RB Mark Ingram underwent toe surgery and is fine. He was placed on injured reserve prior to the team's first playoff game. Analysis: Ingram's rookie campaign came to a close with 474 yards on 122 carries with five touchdowns along with 11 catches for 46 yards in 10 games. He should be fine for the start of 2012 and will at the very least be in a position for a dozen touches a week like he had in many of his games as a rookie. We think he's worth drafting as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy RB. |
| 1/12/2012 | Davone Bess, WR, MIA |
Bess won't need surgeryNews: WR Davone Bess sprained the MCL in his left knee during the season finale, but his injury won't require surgery. Bess is in a brace and is undergoing an intense rehab assignment according to The Sports Xchange. But the knee is stable and should recover fully in three months, unless he suffers a setback. Analysis: Bess' stats took a dive in 2011 as he caught 51 passes for 537 yards with three touchdowns. He's maintained a low but consistent receiving average through his four-year career, which means he needs to catch a lot of passes to be overly productive outside of deeper PPR formats. The Dolphins' offense will get a facelift this offseason which could mean a change for Bess. As of now figure that he's no better than a reserve in PPR formats worth a late-round choice. |
| 1/12/2012 | Brian Orakpo, OLB, WAS |
Orakpo has shoulder surgeryNews: Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo underwent left shoulder surgery this week after getting hurt in Week 17 against Philadelphia. "Just had successful shoulder surgery in Pensacola," Orakpo posted on Twitter. "(T)hanks everybody for their support! Now time for a speedy recovery." Analysis: Orakpo has been the consistent Redskins leader in sacks since joining the team; he had nine this season and has had at least 8.5 in every season. His tackle totals, however, leave a lot to be desired; he's consistently had between 50 and 60 total every year with minimal stats otherwise. Fantasy owners should expect Orakpo to remain this way as a No. 3 Fantasy LB. |
| 1/12/2012 | Quentin Jammer, CB, SD |
Jammer: I can improveNews: CB Quentin Jammer told a San Diego radio station some off-the-field issues clouded his play this season. Jammer seemed to get beat more regularly, especially late in the year. Jammer, who'll be in his 11th season next year, said according to The Sports Xchange that he'll use his subpar play as motivation to return better in 2012. Analysis: Jammer was still the Bolts' best cornerback last season and should continue to be their best defensive back in 2012. However, because his stats aren't huge Fantasy owners shouldn't trust him. |
| 1/12/2012 | Redskins, DST WAS, |
Morris joins Skins' coaching staffNews: Former Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris says he has agreed to coach the Washington Redskins' defensive backs. "I'm a football coach. This is what I do, it's who I am," Morris told the St. Petersburg Times, which reported his hiring Thursday. Morris will be reunited with general manager Bruce Allen, who was the GM in Tampa Bay when Morris returned from a one-year stint as Kansas State's defensive coordinator to coach the Buccaneers defensive backs. Morris was Tampa Bay's defensive backfield coach for four seasons. He replaced Monte Kiffin as defensive coordinator in 2008 and Tampa Bay promoted him to head coach in 2009 replacing Jon Gruden. He had a 17-31-0 record in three years as head coach. Analysis: The Redskins secondary played fairly well for the first half of the season before bottoming out toward the end. Morris' coaching should help a unit rich on big-name guys but not necessarily on consistent quality. This is a step forward for the Redskins DST but far from what they need to be considered a draft-worthy option this summer. |
| 1/12/2012 | Tyrell Sutton, RB, CAR |
Sutton to stick with Seattle?News: The signing of running back Tyrell Sutton to a futures contract could serve notice that changes may be in store at the running back spot for Seattle. The Sports Xchange notes that Seahawks general manager John Schneider is familiar with Sutton; he was in Green Bay when the Packers signed the running back out of Northwestern as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2009. Sutton was released during final cuts, and signed with Carolina, where he remained until being released at the beginning of the 2011 season. Sutton played in 16 games for the Panthers, starting one game at fullback. He finished with 25 carries for 139 yards, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. At 5-8 and 211 pounds, Sutton is described as a tough runner who has excellent hands as a pass catcher out of the backfield. And he has a similar skill set to Justin Forsett, who served as Seattle's third-down back last season and will be an unrestricted free agent. Analysis: Perhaps Sutton is a contender to make the Seahawks' final roster this summer. That shouldn't matter to Fantasy owners just yet. Keep him off of rosters. |
| 1/11/2012 | Raiders, TQB OAK, |
Palmer to get new offense?News: New Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie fired coach Hue Jackson in a bold first move as he looks to give the organization a fresh start. Jackson was responsible for the trade that brought quarterback Carson Palmer to Oakland after starter Jason Campbell broke his collarbone, costing the Raiders a 2012 first-round draft pick and a conditional 2013 second-rounder. The Raiders lost four of their final five games with Palmer, who had 2,637 yards, 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in his nine starts with the team. Analysis: Palmer wasn't a horrible Fantasy option but he was woefully inconsistent. He finished his final six games the season alternating 20-plus-point Fantasy performances with 11-point-or-less efforts. What's clear is that Palmer is still capable of posting big totals (six games with at least 250 yards and four with at least 300 yards; four starts with two or more touchdowns). No one will draft him to be a starter, but assuming he still has a fast receiving corps and works in an offense he's comfortable with, expect him to be an interesting middle- to late-round pick as a quality No. 2 Fantasy QB. |
| 1/10/2012 | Bills, TQB BUF, |
GM sticks up for FitzpatrickNews: Despite some nasty performances after signing a long-term contract extension, Bills GM Buddy Nix has plenty of confidence in QB Ryan Fitzpatrick moving forward. Fitzpatrick threw 14 touchdowns and seven interceptions in his first seven games before connecting on just 10 touchdowns with 16 interceptions in his last nine. His completion percentage also fluctuated wildly during his nine-game skid. "I’ve got no reservations about Ryan," Nix said. "... I think when we started losing players and losing weapons for him he compensated by trying to carry the load some and playing with different receivers each week. Sounds like excuses, but they’re reasons. Another thing with Ryan is the interceptions and the things that he did that were turnovers toward the end of the year, had we wanted to keep those down and had he been the kind of guy that you’d run the ball more you wouldn’t take chances but you’re down 30 points and he’s still trying to score. That didn’t matter. He’s got a gun slinger mentality. I think you’ve got to rein that in a little bit and make good judgments but he’s, if we put good people around him we can get to the dance with Ryan." Analysis: Fitzpatrick obviously has 4,000-yard, 25-touchdown potential, but issues involving the personnel around him along with his own issues (accuracy, for one) make him risky for weekly use in Fantasy. Figure that he's worth a late-round pick as a good No. 2 Fantasy QB with potential to be a low-end starter. It should only help him if the Bills not only re-sign Steve Johnson this offseason, but also add talent at wide receiver. |
| 1/9/2012 | Jahvid Best, RB, DET |
Best will 'definitely' return in 2012News: Lions RB Jahvid Best (concussion) said Monday he is symptom free and will "definitely" return to the field next season, according to the Detroit Free Press. Best suffered a pair of concussions during the regular season and landed on injured reserve in late November. Prior to the injury, Best amassed 677 total yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns in six games during his second season in the NFL. Analysis: Best has dealt with head injuries dating back to his collegiate career and people close to him reportedly told him to consider retiring due to the possible long-term effects from concussions. However, the 22-year-old plans to stay on the field, but will have company next season in the Lions' backfield as the team seeks to re-sign RB Kevin Smith. In addition, RB Mikel Leshoure is expected to return from an injury that sidelined him during the entire 2011 campaign. For now, Best should be viewed as a solid option in the middle rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/9/2012 | Chiefs, DST KC, |
Crennel tabbed as Chiefs new coachNews: The Chiefs made Romeo Crennel the permanent head coach on Monday after he led the floundering team to a pair of wins late in the season including one over the then-undefeated Green Bay Packers. The former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, Crennel had been serving as defensive coordinator when general manager Scott Pioli made him the interim coach. Crennel went 24-40 during four years in Cleveland, though the record is somewhat misleading. He took over a suffering franchise short on talent and went 6-10 and 4-12 in his first two seasons, missing the playoffs each year. But his breakthrough came in 2007, when the Browns went 10-6 and fell just short of the playoffs, earning Crennel a two-year contract extension. After falling back to 4-12, though, the affable Crennel was summarily fired. He figures to have a much better chance of success in Kansas City, where Pioli has locked up several young players to long-term deals and continues to overhaul an aging roster. Analysis: The Chiefs defense should keep on the path they're on with Crennel leading the way, if not improve significantly. Safety Eric Berry missed most of the 2011 season with a torn ACL and should be back for '12, and other improvements are sure to be made. We're looking at a sleeper DST for the upcoming year. |
| 1/9/2012 | Derrick Mason, WR, HOU |
Mason decides to retireNews: Veteran WR Derrick Mason will retire after 15 seasons in the NFL, according to Scout.com. Mason spent the past season with the Jets and Texans before being released by Houston in mid-December. He finished with just 19 receptions in 12 games between the two teams. "I'm done," Mason told the website. "I won't be playing football. I only knew one play to play football, going all-out and having fun out there." Analysis: Mason also played with Tennessee and Baltimore during his sterling career and amassed 943 total receptions for 12,061 yards and 66 touchdowns. "Me leaving now, even though it didn't happen the way I wanted it to happen, I had a good run," Mason said. "It was fun while it lasted." Mason was a standout in Fantasy PPR formats and topped at least 70 catches in eight seasons. He should remain untouched in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/8/2012 | Isaac Redman, RB, PIT |
Redman takes advantage of PTNews: Pittsburgh RB Isaac Redman rushed for a game-high 121 yards on 17 carries during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Redman was inserted into the starting lineup in place of injured RB Rashard Mendenhall and posted a solid average of 7.1 yards per attempt. It was also the first time he has topped 100 yards in a game during his two-year career. He also had two receptions for 21 yards and nearly scored on one of several long runs. Analysis: This isn't the first time Redman has proved to be a capable replacement as he rushed for 92 yards and a touchdown during the last game of the regular season after Mendenhall went down with a torn ACL. Pittsburgh favored the passing game this year, but Redman still managed 110 carries for 479 yards as he ate into Mendenhall's production. More of the same is expected in 2012 as the Steelers will work diligently to bring Mendenhall back from his torn ACL, meaning that he might not be ready to start the season. Redman could prove to be a tremendous Draft Day sleeper, well worth taking with a pick as soon as Round 9 even if he's only an early-season rushing option and handcuff to Mendenhall. A good offseason and a nice start to the season could earn Redman a lot of work. |
| 1/8/2012 | Ike Taylor, CB, PIT |
Taylor tackles season highNews: Pittsburgh DB Ike Taylor notched a team-high seven tackles, including six solo stops, during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Taylor, however, failed to take down Demaryius Thomas during his game-winning 80-yard touchdown catch in overtime. Analysis: Taylor's total matched his highest output during the regular season as the veteran cornerback experienced a sharp drop in production. The 31-year-old managed just 44 tackles with two interceptions, and should be considered a marginal option in Fantasy IDP drafts next season. |
| 1/8/2012 | Emmanuel Sanders, WR, PIT |
Sanders fuels Steelers in defeatNews: Pittsburgh WR Emmanuel Sanders posted team highs in receptions (six) and yards (81) during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Sanders garnered eight targets from QB Ben Roethlisberger as he also secured his highest receiving output of the season. Entering Sunday's game, he had finished with more than two catches in an outing only twice during the regular season. Analysis: Sanders was limited to only 11 games in the regular season as he missed playing time following foot surgery in November. The 24-year-old possesses plenty of speed, but is not highly targeted in Pittsburgh's passing game. Sanders notched two touchdown receptions this year as he sits behind fellow WRs Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown on the depth chart. He is unlikely to be considered a worthwhile WR option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/8/2012 | Heath Miller, TE, PIT |
Miller contributes in lossNews: Pittsburgh TE Heath Miller tallied five receptions for 60 yards during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Miller started hot with 41 yards on his first two catches of the game, but was limited during the rest of the outing. However, he was able to top 60 yards in a playoff game for the fourth time in his seven-year career. Miller finished with seven targets from QB Ben Roethlisberger in the contest. Analysis: Miller shrugged off a slow start to the regular season and still reached 50 receptions for the year. But he was limited to just two touchdown catches for the second straight season as the Steelers had several other receiving threats to emerge as solid scoring options. Miller certainly lacks the flair of the elite Fantasy tight ends, but remains a quality option as a No. 2 Fantasy TE worthy of a selection late in drafts for next season. |
| 1/8/2012 | Elvis Dumervil, DE, DEN |
Dumervil reaches double-digit sacksNews: Broncos DL Elvis Dumervil continued to get after the quarterback against the Steelers in the first round of the playoffs. He brought down QB Ben Roethlisberger once and also posted two tackles in the 29-23 win. Miller now has 10.5 sacks between the regular and postseason. Analysis: Dumervil has been a solid pass rusher since joining the league in 2006 and has posted double-digit sacks three times. He also does a decent job with tackles so consider the 27-year-old a viable option in the majority of Fantasy IDP formats in Round 2 against the Patriots. When he faced New England in Week 15, Dumervil finished with two tackles. |
| 1/8/2012 | Shaun Suisham, K, PIT |
Suisham solid in Wild Card lossNews: Pittsburgh K Shaun Suisham was statistically solid on Sunday night during the AFC Wild Card game at Denver. Suisham didn't miss a field goal and connected on three of them with a long of 45 yards. He added 2 for 2 on PATs and finished the game with 11 points scored. Suisham, unfortunately, was playing for the losing team in the game as the Steelers were eliminated from the playoffs in the Broncos victory. Analysis: Suisham went just 23 of 31 for the Steelers in the regular season on field goals. For as good as the Pittsburgh defense was this season, the field goal kicking, namely Suisham, was not impressive. Suisham only finished with double digits in Fantasy scoring three times all season. Pittsburgh wins with defense and doesn't put up a lot of points. That doesn't help Suisham's Fantasy value, especially considering he also wasn't the most reliable kicker around. Suisham will enter next year as a low-end Fantasy kicker. |
| 1/8/2012 | Steelers, DST PIT, |
Steelers chewed up in lossNews: The stout Pittsburgh defense picked the wrong time to crumble as the unit allowed a whopping 447 total yards during a 29-23 loss at Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. The Steelers allowed only 14.2 points per game during the season, with four their last five opponents failing to score 10. Pittsburgh also yielded 281.8 yards per game as the NFL's top-ranked defense, but nearly surrendered that amount in the second quarter alone as the Broncos out-gained the Steelers 225-51 and scored 20 points for a 20-6 lead. Analysis: With leading tackler DB Ryan Clark out for the game because of a blood condition that's exacerbated at altitude, Pittsburgh struggled to contain the surprising Broncos. The Steelers allowed just two receivers to collect more than 90 yards in receptions in the regular season, but were burned for 204 yards on four catches by Demaryius Thomas. Pittsburgh also failed to register a sack on QB Tim Tebow, just the fourth time that has happened this year. Still, Fantasy owners should continue to view the Steelers as a No. 1 Fantasy DST for 2012. |
| 1/8/2012 | Daniel Fells, TE, DEN |
Fells posts 57 yards vs. SteelersNews: Broncos TE Daniel Fells had one of his better games of the season in Round 1 of the playoff against the Steelers. He caught two passes for 57 yards in the 29-23 overtime win. He had a long reception of 40 and averaged 28.5 yards per grab. Fells finished second on Denver in receiving behind WR Demaryius Thomas (204 yards). Analysis: Fells posted just 19 catches during the regular season but had an impact during Sunday. Still, given his production thus far and inconsistent play, consider the 28-year-old as more of a low-end Fantasy TE for Round 2 against the Patriots. Fells was held without a catch when he faced New England in Week 15. |
| 1/8/2012 | Jerricho Cotchery, WR, PIT |
Cotchery scores late TDNews: Pittsburgh WR Jerricho Cotchery hauled in just one pass, but it went for a touchdown during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Cotchery connected with QB Ben Roethlisberger on a 31-yard touchdown pass during the fourth quarter to the tie the game at 23. The veteran wideout was targeted only twice by Roethlisberger, but still managed more yards than star WR Mike Wallace (26). Analysis: Cotchery certainly made his lone reception of Sunday's game count.as the touchdown marked Pittsburgh's only receiving score of the contest. The 29-year-old joined the Steelers late, but developed some late chemistry and finished with two touchdowns during the regular season. He is currently buried on the team's depth chart, but could take WR Hines Ward's position in the slot if he retires. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status, but he's not a worthwhile option in 2012 Fantasy drafts at this point. |
| 1/8/2012 | Antonio Brown, WR, PIT |
Brown an all-around threatNews: Pittsburgh WR Antonio Brown posted five receptions for 70 yards during the Steelers' 29-23 loss to Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Brown, who has made the playoffs during both of his season in the NFL, continued to be heavily targeted in the passing game and registered seven looks from QB Ben Roethlisberger. Sunday's outing was the fourth time in his last five games he finished with at least five catches. Analysis: Brown, who become the first player in NFL history to have 1,000 yards receiving and return, was held in check on special teams and did not have an opportunity to return a kick. The 23-year-old emerged as a dynamic wideout for Pittsburgh this season and paired with WR Mike Wallace to form a productive receiving tandem. Though the receptions and receiving yards were easily career highs, he only scored two touchdowns, which limits his Fantasy value. Fantasy owners should target him as a high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR for the 2012 season. |
| 1/8/2012 | Mike Wallace, WR, PIT |
Wallace rushes for TDNews: Pittsburgh WR Mike Wallace finished with three receptions for 26 yards during the Steelers' 29-23 loss at Denver in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday. Wallace also rushed for a score from the 1-yard line on a nifty play during the third quarter to give Pittsburgh its first touchdown of the game. It was the first time he reached the end zone since Dec. 4 against Cincinnati when he hauled in two touchdown passes. Wallace posted a team-high 10 targets from QB Ben Roethlisberger in the game. Analysis: Wallace salvaged his lowly receiving output with the touchdown -- the first rushing score of his three-year career. But he was severely limited in the passing game on Sunday after topping 1,000 yards for the second straight season and recording a career-high 72 catches. Part of Wallace's struggles can be attributed to Roethlisberger's ankle injury down the stretch as he scored just two receiving touchdowns in his last seven games. He still remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR and should be viewed as an early-round selection in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/8/2012 | Matt Bryant, K, ATL |
Bryant never gets on the fieldNews: Atlanta K Matt Bryant simply was not needed on Sunday in the NFC Wild Card game loss at New York against the Giants. The Falcons dropped the game and were eliminated from the playoffs 24-2 on Sunday. Bryant never came out onto the field for a field goal or extra point attempt. He finished with zero points in the game. Bryant's season is now officially over. Analysis: Bryant did not have a single game like Sunday's Wild Card contest during the entire regular season as his worst effort saw him record at least two Fantasy points. Bryant went 27 of 29 on field goals during the regular season and did not miss a single extra point in 45 tries. He'll enter next year as an adequate Fantasy kicker for all formats as the Falcons are expected to be a high-scoring team next year. |
| 1/8/2012 | Roddy White, WR, ATL |
White sees season end SundayNews: Atlanta WR Roddy White was held in check and could not help lead his team to victory in Sunday's NFC Wild Card playoff loss at New York. The Giants got the better of the Falcons on Sunday and Atlanta couldn't muster more than two points scored on an early safety. White finished second on the team in receiving behind Julio Jones as he caught five passes for 52 yards. He was targeted 12 times in the game by QB Matt Ryan as the Falcons' season has come to an end. Analysis: White was kept under 100 yards receiving in the final regular-season game and once again in the playoff tilt against the Giants. That said, White still managed 100 receptions for 1,296 yards with eight touchdowns in the regular season. White was one of the best Fantasy WRs around this year and that continued even as the rookie Jones broke out for Ryan and the Falcons. White should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into next season. |
| 1/8/2012 | Julio Jones, WR, ATL |
Jones' season ends with dudNews: Atlanta WR Julio Jones was held in check as he could not help lead his team to victory in Sunday's NFC Wild Card playoff loss at New York. The Giants got the better of the Falcons on Sunday and Atlanta couldn't muster more than two points scored on an early safety. Jones led the Falcons in receiving in the game, but finished with just seven catches for 64 yards from QB Matt Ryan. Jones had a long grab of 20 yards and was targeted eight times. He did not score in the game and added one rushing attempt for 13 yards as the Falcons' season came to an end. Analysis: Jones heads into the offseason now after having a fantastic regular season as a rookie for the Falcons. He really blossomed alongside Roddy White in the Atlanta passing game. Jones, White and Ryan should all return next year to have an even better season throwing the football. Jones scored six touchdowns in the final four regular-season games and finished his rookie year with 54 catches for 959 yards and eight touchdowns. Jones will be a popular pick as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day, with the upside to be much more. |
| 1/8/2012 | Aaron Ross, CB, NYG |
Ross sustains concussionNews: Giants DB Aaron Ross was unable to finish the Wild Card game against the Falcons after sustaining a concussion in the third quarter. He had five solo tackles in the game before getting hurt. Analysis: Ross finished the 2011 regular season with a career-high 60 tackles and four interceptions. He bounced back after two disappointing seasons, including an injury-plagued 2009. Still, Ross will be more of a low-end Fantasy DB on Draft Day 2012. |
| 1/8/2012 | D.J. Ware, RB, NYG |
Ware sustains concussion vs. FalconsNews: Giants RB D.J. Ware suffered a concussion in his team's Wild Card game against the Falcons. He had one carry for 4 yards and one catch for 13 yards before leaving the game. Analysis: Ware is third on the depth chart at RB behind Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. He usually plays in passing situations and only plays a bigger role when those backs are banged up. He has marginal Fantasy appeal in playoff formats and won't have any Fantasy value on Draft Day 2012 if he remains in his current situation. |
| 1/8/2012 | Brandon Pettigrew, TE, DET |
Pettigrew can't find end zoneNews: Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew caught four passes for 49 yards on Saturday versus the Saints. He was targeted five times by Matthew Stafford, but failed to find the end zone in his team's 45-28 loss. Analysis: Pettigrew was one of Stafford's favorite targets during the regular season as he set the franchise record for most receiving yards by a tight end in a season -- 777 yards. He caught 83 passes and had five touchdowns during the regular season, both career highs. Fantasy owners should consider Pettigrew a top TE choice on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/8/2012 | Nate Burleson, WR, DET |
Burleson makes most of targetsNews: Lions WR Nate Burleson was targeted five times by Matthew Stafford on Saturday in Detroit's playoff game in New Orleans. Burleson caught four passes for 50 yards and also had one carry for 2 yards. The Lions would end up losing to the Saints, 45-28. Analysis: Burleson got a lot of looks during the regular season, but Titus Young came on late in the year for Detroit. He did catch a career-high 73 passes for 757 yards, but managed just three touchdowns. (Stafford threw 41 during the regular season.) Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how Burleson fits into the team's plans next year before drafting him. If he serves a role similar to this season he'd be worth using as a low-end WR option. |
| 1/8/2012 | Titus Young, WR, DET |
Young falters in postseasonNews: Detroit WR Titus Young got plenty of looks in Saturday's Wild Card game loss to New Orleans, but didn't make the most of his opportunities. He was targeted 10 times by Matthew Stafford. He managed to haul in four passes for 33 yards. Young also had one carry for 8 yards. Analysis: Young emerged as a solid receiving option opposite Calvin Johnson towards the end of the regular season for the Lions. The 22-year-old finished the regular season with 48 catches for 607 yards and six touchdowns. Fantasy owners should consider him a worthwhile choice on Draft Day in 2012 in the later rounds. |
| 1/8/2012 | Stephen Tulloch, MLB, DET |
Tulloch paces Lions attackNews: Detroit LB Stephen Tulloch recorded a team-high 15 tackles in Saturday's 45-28 loss to New Orleans. Eight of those tackles were solo. Analysis: Tulloch finished the regular season with 111 tackles, three sacks and two picks. Those numbers are good enough to make him relevant in most Fantasy IDP leagues. Consider him a viable option on Draft Day next year. |
| 1/8/2012 | Lions, DST DET, |
Lions marched over by SaintsNews: Detroit had a difficult time stopping the New Orleans offense on Saturday night. They allowed the Saints' trio of running backs to rumble for 167 yards on the ground. Drew Brees also threw for 466 yards and three touchdowns, as he distributed the ball between eight different receivers. The Lions did sack Brees twice and even forced a fumble on one of those hits. They could have run it back for a score, but an official on the sideline blew the play dead as he thought it was an incomplete pass. Analysis: The Lions pass defense struggled this season and Saturday's Wild Card game was no different. Fantasy owners should monitor any changes the Lions make in the offseason on defense, as they have some issues to address. Consider them a viable DST option for the 2012 season. |
| 1/7/2012 | Reggie Nelson, FS, CIN |
Nelson registers sackNews: Cincinnati DB Reggie Nelson matched the team lead with six tackles and a sack during the Bengals' 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Saturday. Nelson took down Texans QB T.J. Yates during the third quarter to finish with one of only two sacks by Cincinnati. Analysis: Nelson finished with a career-high two sacks during the regular season and was able to add to that total in the playoffs. The 28-year-old also increased his tackle total (85) this season and should be viewed as a decent option in the late rounds of Fantasy IDP drafts next year. |
| 1/7/2012 | Bernard Scott, RB, CIN |
Scott contributes in lossNews: Cincinnati RB Bernard Scott notched 11 yards on six carries during the Bengals' 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Saturday. Scott and the rest of the Cincinnati running game was held in check by the Texans as he finished with a paltry 1.8 yards per attempt. Bengals RB Brian Leonard paced the team with 34 yards on three carries. Scott also had three catches for 29 yards while being targeted four times. Analysis: Scott scored a touchdown in two of his last three games in the regular season, but was unable to reach the end zone Saturday as RB Cedric Benson recorded the only score. The speedy 27-year-old received more touches at the end of the season and could earn a larger role in the Cincinnati offense next year. For now, he should not be considered a worthwhile selection in Fantasy drafts for the 2012 campaign. |
| 1/7/2012 | Brian Leonard, RB, CIN |
Leonard paces rushing gameNews: Cincinnati RB Brian Leonard finished with 70 total yards from scrimmage during the Bengals' 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Saturday. Leonard registered a team-high 34 rushing yards on three carries -- his first rushing attempts since Nov. 27 against Cleveland. He also paced the team with six receptions for 36 yards while being targeted seven times by Cincinnati QB Andy Dalton. Analysis: Leonard has been a marginal contributor in the Bengals offense this season and recorded less than 100 rushing yards (85) in 13 games. He was inactive toward the end of the year as Cincinnati relied mainly on RBs Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott. Fantasy owners shouldn't anticipate his workload increasing next year, barring an injury, and he is not worthy of a selection in 2012 Fantasy draft. |
| 1/7/2012 | Jermaine Gresham, TE, CIN |
Gresham held in checkNews: Cincinnati TE Jermaine Gresham caught five passes for 46 yards during the Bengals' 31-10 loss at Houston in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Saturday. Gresham, who collected six targets from QB Andy Dalton, posted 9.2 yards per catch as he finished with five receptions for the third straight game. He finished one yard shy of the team lead held by WR A.J. Green despite earning six fewer looks from Dalton. Analysis: Gresham was a solid option in Cincinnati's passing game this year and registered 56 catches during the regular season. He isn't in the realm of the elite tight ends playing in the NFL, but his steady production also led to six touchdowns this year. Fantasy owners should look for Gresham to continue his progression in his third NFL season next year and consider him a quality TE option in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts. |
| 1/7/2012 | Mike Nugent, K, CIN |
Nugent can't carry momentumNews: Cincinnati K Mike Nugent connected on 1 of 2 field goals and an extra point during the Bengals' 31-10 loss at Houston in the AFC Wild Card round on Saturday. Nugent converted a 37-yard attempt in the second quarter, but also missed a 50-yard kick earlier. Analysis: Nugent was effective at the end of the season when he made at least two field goals in his last four games. However, he was limited on Saturday as the Bengals rarely found quality field position and turned the ball over three times. Fantasy owners should consider him a solid Fantasy K option heading into next season. |
| 1/7/2012 | Bengals, DST CIN, |
Bengals pounded on groundNews: Cincinnati's late-season issues defending the run started rearing its head early in the Bengals' matchup at Houston in the AFC Wild Card round on Saturday. The defense was unable to prevent more damage throughout the game and surrendered 188 rushing yards during Cincinnati's 31-10 loss. Texans RB Arian Foster finished with 153 yards and two touchdowns on the ground, another disturbing outing against a Bengals unit that had allowed 131.6 yards per game in the last six regular season contests. Analysis: The Cincinnati defense had not allowed more than 145 yards in its first 15 games, but imploded in the final two outings, including Saturday. A week after yielding 228 rushing yards to the Ravens, the Bengals were tagged for two touchdowns on the ground, highlighted by Foster's 42-yard run in the fourth quarter. Cincinnati also struggled pressuring rookie QB T.J Yates and recorded only two late sacks with no interceptions. The Bengals showed improvement this season and should be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST option in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/7/2012 | A.J. Green, WR, CIN |
Not easy being Green in playoffsNews: Cincinnati WR A.J. Green recorded five catches for a team-high 47 yards during the Bengals' 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card round on Saturday. Green was shadowed throughout the game by Texans Pro Bowl DB Johnathan Joseph and posted just 9.4 yards per reception. He was targeted 12 times by QB Andy Dalton, but was held to less than 50 receiving yards for the third consecutive game. Analysis: Green seemed to be limited by a shoulder injury at the end of the season that took away his downfield looks from Dalton. Since injuring his shoulder against St. Louis in Week 15 the rookie had just one reception of more than 35 yards. That's a sharp contrast to earlier in the season when Green had five straight with at least one catch for 35-plus yards. His longest gain on Saturday went for 21 yards. Green emerged as a sterling receiver in his rookie campaign and should be considered with a selection beginning in the fourth round of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/7/2012 | Bengals, TQB CIN, |
Interceptions plague DaltonNews: Cincinnati QB Andy Dalton completed 27 of his 42 passes for 257 yards during the Bengals’ 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card game on Saturday. Dalton was also picked off three times as he finished with a lowly 51.4 passer rating -- his lowest mark since Week 3 (40.8). It was the second time this season Dalton has thrown three interceptions in an outing. He had 20 touchdown passes and 16 interceptions this year. Analysis: Dalton settled down after his initial possession and found a groove during the rest of the first half. However, he struggled after halftime and tossed two of his interceptions while failing to thrown a touchdown pass for the third time in his past four games. The rookie had little time to throw in the pocket as he was taken down four times by the furious Texans pass rush. Dalton made solid strides during his first season and will benefit pairing with WR A.J. Green for several years. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB worthy of a selection late in 2012 drafts. |
| 1/7/2012 | Brian Cushing, ILB, HOU |
Cushing crushes BengalsNews: Houston LB Brian Cushing registered a team-high eight tackles, including one for a loss, during the Texans' 31-10 victory over Cincinnati in the AFC Wild Card round on Saturday. It was the sixth time this season Cushing has posted at least eight stops in a single game. Analysis: Cushing finished with 114 tackles during the regular season as he topped the century mark for the second time in his three NFL seasons. He continues to play through injuries and should be considered a solid option in the middle rounds of Fantasy IDP drafts for next season. |
| 1/6/2012 | Brian Dawkins, SS, DEN |
Dawkins out against SteelersNews: Broncos safety Brian Dawkins (neck) has been ruled out for Sunday's AFC Wild Card game against the Steelers. Dawkins missed Week 17 against Kansas City with the same neck injury. Analysis: Hopefully we can see Dawkins play in the playoffs if the Broncos advance. When healthy, Dawkins is a low-end DB in IDP leagues. He has minimal Fantasy value heading into 2012. |
| 1/6/2012 | Mewelde Moore, RB, PIT |
Moore ruled outNews: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers RB Mewelde Moore (knee) will not play Sunday in the AFC Wild Card game at Denver. Moore was originally hurt in Week 15 against San Francisco. Analysis: Keep Moore reserved in all Fantasy Playoff leagues. When healthy, he has minimal Fantasy value in most formats. He should not be drafted heading into 2012. |
| 1/5/2012 | Chargers, DST SD, |
Chargers zap defensive coordinatorNews: San Diego released defensive coordinator Greg Manusky on Thursday after the team yielded 23.6 points per game this past season, the fifth-highest total in the AFC. The Chargers quickly named his replacement in John Pagano, who has served as the team's linebackers coach since 2005. Manusky was hired last offseason to replace Ron Rivera, who became the head coach at Carolina. He previously served as San Francisco's defensive coordinator before joining the Chargers. Analysis: The Chargers paced the NFL in total defense in 2010 before taking a significant step backward last season. In 2011, San Diego’s defensive ranking dropped to 16th overall, including 20th against the run and 13th against the pass, after also leading the NFL in pass defense in 2010. Injuries also hurt the team on both side of the ball, but they maintained a solid special teams unit. Fantasy owners should expect a rebound for the Chargers in 2012 and consider them a possible high-end No. 2 Fantasy DST in drafts. |
| 1/5/2012 | Shayne Graham, K, BAL |
Ravens cut GrahamNews: The Carroll County Times reports Thursday that the Ravens felt confident enough in kicker Billy Cundiff that they cut kicker Shayne Graham on Tuesday. Cundiff is regarded as healthy now after missing a game with a left calf injury. Analysis: Graham will look to sign with a new team in 2012, but he has minimal Fantasy value heading into the season. Ignore him in all formats on Draft Day unless he lands with a team that has a high-powered offense or puts him in a good situation to succeed. |
| 1/4/2012 | Chris Carter, LB, PIT |
Carter lands on IRNews: The Steelers signed RB Chad Spann to take the place of LB Chris Carter, who was placed on injured reserve Analysis: Neither player is expected to impact Fantasy owners at this stage of the game. Keep both off rosters. |
| 1/4/2012 | Chad Spann, RB, PIT |
Steelers sign RB SpannNews: The Steelers signed RB Chad Spann to take the place of LB Chris Carter, who was placed on injured reserve Analysis: Neither player is expected to impact Fantasy owners at this stage of the game. Keep both off rosters. |
| 1/3/2012 | Rashard Mendenhall, RB, PIT |
Tomlin confirms Mendenhall ACL tearNews: Speaking on SiriusXM NFL Radio on Tuesday, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed that Rashard Mendenhall suffered a torn ACL in Week 17 and will miss the rest of the postseason. he has been placed on injured reserve. Isaac Redman will be the primary rusher and starter for the Steelers in the playoffs. "We got it looked at and confirmed yesterday," Tomlin said. "We expect Rashard to attack that like he attacks everything else. We expect him to bounce back from it." Analysis: It's a tough road for Mendenhall starting with surgery in the near future and several months of rehabilitation. After helping the Steelers get to the Super Bowl last year, he struggled to be a dominant rusher in 2011, failing to rush for 1,000 yards although he did score nine times (many at Heinz Field). We were hoping Mendenhall would rebound in 2012, but this knee injury is going to limit his value, not to mention force the Steelers to add depth to their running back corps. We'll keep tabs on his progress, but expect Mendenhall to get drafted likely as a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy RB -- and that's assuming he can get into a preseason game or two and be ready to roll for the start of next season. His value is now quite limited in keeper formats, and he should not be used in any Fantasy playoff challenges. |
| 1/3/2012 | Will Herring, OLB, NO |
Herring lands on IR for SaintsNews: The Saints placed LB Will Herring on injured reserve on Tuesday. Herring will not be available for the playoffs now after suffering an undisclosed injury in the Week 17 win over the Panthers. Analysis: Herring was not a major defensive weapon for the Saints and was never really much of a Fantasy option during the regular season. He didn't carry any value into the playoffs and doesn't have any headed into next season. |
| 1/3/2012 | Philip Rivers, QB, SD |
Turner stays with Rivers in San DiegoNews: The Chargers announced Tuesday that head coach Norv Turner will return to the team in 2012. That means the offense currently run by the Chargers will remain the same, a big plus for quarterback Philip Rivers. Analysis: In five seasons with Turner, Rivers has averaged 4,150 yards, 28 touchdowns and 13 interceptions per year. So while many folks in San Diego might be unhappy with Turner's return, Fantasy owners can take some comfort in knowing that he'll be there to help Rivers maintain his quality stats. Rivers is expected to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2012 and will actually fall to Round 4 or so in drafts as owners have become enamored with other quarterbacks at a very talent-rich position. Believe it or not, Rivers could be one of Fantasy's best bargains this summer. |
| 1/3/2012 | Ryan Clark, FS, PIT |
Clark won't play in DenverNews: Pittsburgh DB Ryan Clark will not be able to play on Sunday in the AFC Wild Card game at Denver. Clark has a sickle cell trait and cannot play football in the high altitude of Denver. In 2007, Clark lost his spleen, gall bladder and 30 pounds after playing football at a high altitude plus playing with the sickle-cell trait in Denver. Clark consulted a doctor recently, who helped make the decision for him not to play. Analysis: Clark had 100 tackles on the season for the Steelers' defense to go with a sack and an interception. He is a solid Fantasy option in IDP formats. That said, owners need to avoid him in playoff leagues due to his condition. |
| 1/2/2012 | Brian Urlacher, MLB, CHI |
Urlacher's MRI brings good newsNews: Chicago LB Brian Urlacher (knee) got some good news on Monday as the results of his MRI exam confirmed he has just a sprained MCL and partially sprained PCL. Urlacher does not have damage to his ACL, menisci or articulating cartilage, reports the team's official site. Analysis: The Bears' season is over and Urlacher is going to have the offseason to heal from this now minor knee injury. The Bears and Fantasy owners of tomorrow have apparently dodged a bullet. That said, Urlacher won't have any Fantasy value until next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Larry Fitzgerald, WR, ARI |
Fitz goes for 149, but suffers injuryNews: Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald finished with nine receptions for 149 yards in Week 17 against the Seahawks, but apparently suffered a lung injury in the 23-20 win. Fitzgergald's father, Larry Fitzgerald Sr., tweeted after the game that his son suffered a lung injury in the contest and was spitting up blood on the sideline. He also added that Fitzgerlad will undergo an MRI on Monday. However, the team said the 28-year-old underwent X-rays following the game, which came back negative. Fitzgerald did meet with the media after the game and did not mention anything regarding his injury. Analysis: The team also came out and said Fitzgerlad does not need an MRI, but will have a CT scan on his chest at some point. However, the good news is Fitzgerald seemed to be fine after the game and has already been cleared from having a collapsed lung. Despite his ailment, Fitzgerald turned in another monster season. He eclipsed the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the six straight year, and finished with 80 receptions and eight touchdown receptions. While Fantasy owners should obviously continue his injury situation moving forward, the good news is he will have plenty of time to recover with the Cardinals now off until next year. As long as he is healthy, owners should have no qualms about scooping up Fitzgerald in the first few rounds in most formats next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Toby Gerhart, RB, MIN |
Injury shortens Gerhart's dayNews: Vikings RB Toby Gerhart injured his left knee in the third quarter Week 17 against the Bears and did not return. The Vikings said after the game that he suffered a sprained MCL. Gerhart, who was starting in place of the injured Adrian Peterson (knee), had 15 carries for 67 yards and one catch for 3 yards before leaving. Analysis: For most of his two years in the NFL, Gerhart was regarded as the de facto backup for Adrian Peterson, but he showed with Peterson's injuries late in 2011 that he's a terrific NFL rusher in his own right, averaging 73.8 rushing yards over his final five games. Now that Peterson could potentially miss the beginning of next season as he recovers from a torn ACL and MCL, Gerhart figures to be a valuable handcuff option for Fantasy owners entering 2012. Don't forget about him in the late rounds. |
| 1/2/2012 | Brandon Carr, CB, KC |
Carr ends ‘Tebow Time’ in winNews: The fourth quarter has been known as ‘Tebow Time’ for the Broncos, as QB Tim Tebow has led the team on five come-from behind wins in the quarter this season. Chiefs DB put a stop to that on a potentially game-winning drive in Week 17, intercepting Tebow’s fourth-down pass on the final drive to clinch the Chiefs’ 7-3 win over the Broncos. He had just two tackles and two pass defenses otherwise in the game. Analysis: Carr had the best season of his career from a takeaway standpoint in 2011, as he had a career-high four interceptions on the year. He did see his tackles slip a bit, as he had just 45 on the year, a career-low, but with the interceptions, you’ll take that. Despite the interception total, he is not a player to target on Draft Day next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Christian Ponder, QB, MIN |
Ponder suffers another injuryNews: Vikings QB Christian Ponder, who left Week 16 with a concussion, was carted off the field early in the second quarter Week 17 against the Bears after aggravating a hip pointer he suffered a month ago. He did not return. Ponder was 4 for 10 for 28 yards and an interception before leaving. Joe Webb took his place under center and again put up solid numbers, but coach Leslie Frazier put to rest any thoughts of a quarterback controversy by declaring Ponder his No. 1 quarterback entering the offseason Analysis: Ponder's season was one with mixed results. He threw for more than 200 yards in only four of his 10 starts and had as many interceptions (13) as touchdown passes. A step forward is possible in his sophomore season, but you wouldn't want to invest more than a late-round pick in him on Draft Day, especially since he'll have Webb pushing him at the start of the season. |
| 1/2/2012 | Justin Houston, OLB, KC |
Houston finishes season strongNews: Chiefs LB Justin Houston went on a tear at the end of the season, finishing with 5.5 sacks in the teams’ final five games. He capped it off with a 1.5 sack performance in the team’s 7-3 win over the Broncos, as he chased Broncos QB Tim Tebow all over the field. Analysis: Houston, the Chiefs’ 3rd round pick in the 2011 Draft, has plenty of upside, and he showed it at the end of the year. He may emerge as a solid Fantasy IDP option next season, and should be considered a sleeper on Draft day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Ryan Succop, K, KC |
Succop’s season ends with single extra pointNews: Chiefs K Ryan Succop ended his 2011 season the exact same way he began it; with a missed field goal and a single extra point. While the Chiefs lost in Week 1 when he had that line, they managed to defeat the Broncos in Week 17 7-3. The field goal he missed was from 44-yards out in the first quarter. Analysis: Succop finished the year 17th in the NFL with 24 field-goals made, and converted 80 percent of them 23rd in the league. However the Chiefs’ offense was largely nonexistent for most of the year, so he attempted just 20 extra points on the season. His value was limited by his offense, and while things should be better next year with a healthy Matt Cassel, they will likely remain below average, limiting Succop’s value. He will not be a recommended option on Draft Day next year. |
| 1/2/2012 | Tony Romo, QB, DAL |
Romo tosses two TDs in season finaleNews: Cowboys QB Tony Romo, who entered Sunday with a hand injury, played his final game of the 2011 season in Week 17 against the Giants. He completed 29 of 37 passes for 289 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in the 31-14 loss. He hooked up with WR Laurent Robinson on a 34-yard scoring strike in the third quarter before getting picked off by DB Antrel Rolle. Then in the fourth, he found Robinson again, this time from 6 yards out. Romo, who also gained 3 yards on two carries, posted a 106 passer rating in the defeat. “It didn’t look like it affected him in any way,” coach Jason Garrett said of Romo's hand. “He didn’t take a lot of snaps coming into the game, but that wasn’t really an issue in the game.” Analysis: The Cowboys needed a win on Sunday to make it to the playoffs but unfortunately, Romo and Co. could not get the job done. Still, he played well through his hand injury and posted some solid stats this season. He threw for over 4,000 yards with a 31-to-10 touchdown-to-interception ratio, and also had a score on the ground. Dallas has a ton of talent at their skill positions so the 31-year-old should be in for another productive campaign in 2012. Consider Romo a No. 1 Fantasy QB on Draft Day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Cowboys, DST DAL, |
Cowboys can't slow down GiantsNews: The Cowboys defense had a hard time slowing down the Giants in Week 17. Dallas allowed 437 yards of total offense, including 331 through the air, and could not cause a turnover in the 31-14 loss. New York also ran for 106 yards and a touchdown. LB DeMarcus Ware led the Cowboys with 1.5 sacks. Analysis: The Cowboys struggled against the pass all season long and it ended up burning them on Sunday. They will have to address their secondary in the offseason, but their front-seven and linebackers appear to be solid. Keep an eye on what Dallas does in the offseason. With a little boost, the Cowboys DST should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/2/2012 | Dan Bailey, K, DAL |
Bailey misses lone attemptNews: Cowboys K Dan Bailey missed his lone field goal attempt in Week 17 against the Giants. He would covert two extra points, however, in the 31-14 loss. His miss came at the end of the second half when he pushed a 52-yarder. Analysis: Bailey had a solid rookie campaign and finished the year 32 for 37 in field goal chances. He went 12 for 16 from 40-plus yards and benefited from Dallas' high-scoring offense. He should be a reliable option again in 2012 so target Bailey as a No. 1 Fantasy K on Draft Day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, NYG |
JPP adds another sack in Week 17News: Giants DL Jason Pierre-Paul recorded a sack in his fourth straight game in Week 17 against the Cowboys. He finished with five tackles and brought down QB Tony Romo once in the 31-14 win. Pierre-Paul finished the regular season with a career-high 16.5 sacks. Analysis: Pierre-Paul had a breakout campaign for the Giants this season and is vastly becoming one of the more dangerous defensive linemen in the league. He should only continue to get better at age 22. Target Pierre-Paul as a No. 1 Fantasy DL in IDP formats on Draft Day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Thomas Jones, RB, KC |
Jones’ future in doubt as season endsNews: Chiefs RB Thomas Jones rushed for 42 yards on 15 carries in the Chiefs 7-3 win over the Broncos in Week 17, and it may have been the last time Jones appears in a Chiefs uniform. With his contract up, Jones will be a free agent with his 34th birthday approaching before the 2012 season. At that advanced age, it seems unlikely that he will get much attention on the market, though he has given no indication that he is ready to quit playing. Analysis: If indeed Jones is done playing in the NFL, he’ll have quietly put together a very solid career, as he ranks 22nd in league history in rushing yards. He finished the 2011 season with just 478 rushing yards, his lowest total since 2001, his second season in the league. Even if he does catch on, Jones is likely to be worthy of much attention in Fantasy leagues next season. |
| 1/2/2012 | Miles Austin, WR, DAL |
Austin a non-factor vs. GiantsNews: Cowboys WR Miles Austin was not much of a factor in Week 17 against the Giants. He caught just two passes for 20 yards in the 31-14 loss. He was targeted five times by QB Tony Romo and averaged 10 yards per grab. Austin had his two-game touchdown streak snapped in the defeat. Analysis: After going over the 1,000-yard mark each of the last two seasons, injuries and inconsistent play hindered Austin in 2011 but he still finished with some decent stats. He scored seven touchdowns on 43 receptions. He is a big part of the Cowboys plans going forward so he should be able to bounce back next season. Consider Austin a solid Fantasy WR on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/2/2012 | Dez Bryant, WR, DAL |
Bryant leads Dallas in season finaleNews: Cowboys WR Dez Bryant led his team in receiving in Week 17 against the Giants. He caught six passes for 70 yards in the 31-14 loss. He had a long reception of 17 and averaged 11.7 yards per grab. Bryant was targeted eight times by QB Tony Romo in the defeat. Analysis: Bryant had a career campaign for the Cowboys this season as he posted personal bests in receptions (63), receiving yards (928) and touchdowns (nine). He is quickly developing into the most dangerous wideout in Dallas and should only get better at age 23. Heading into 2012, target Bryant as a solid Fantasy WR in all formats on Draft Day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Jason Witten, TE, DAL |
Witten falls short of 1,000 yardsNews: Cowboys TE Jason Witten entered Week 17 against the Giants needing 127 yards receiving for his third straight 1,000-yard campaign. He would not reach that mark as he finished with seven catches for 69 yards in the 31-14 loss. He had a long reception of 20 and averaged 9.9 yards per grab. Witten, who was targeted eight times, finished second on Dallas in receiving behind WR Dez Bryant (70 yards). Analysis: Witten had a down campaign in 2011 as he failed to reach 80 receptions for the first time since 2006 and also posted his fewest receiving yards since that year. While he was able to find the end zone five times, he was overshadowed by the talented wideouts in Dallas. Still, he has been one of the more reliable tight ends in Fantasy for years now and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day. |
| 1/2/2012 | Laurent Robinson, WR, DAL |
L. Robinson finds end zone twice moreNews: Cowboys WR Laurent Robinson continued his career campaign in Week 17 against the Giants. He hauled in two more touchdown passes, giving him 11 on the year, and finished with four catches for 61 yards in the 31-14 loss. QB Tony Romo found him from 34 yards out in the third quarter, and again from 6 yards late in the game. Robinson, who was targeted five times in the contest, averaged 15.3 yards per reception. Analysis: Robinson finished with career highs in receptions (54), receiving yards (858) and touchdowns this season as he helped fill in when Miles Austin and Dez Bryant went down with injuries. He proved this season that he can be a viable Fantasy option so keep an eye on where he lands in the offseason. As long as he is starting somewhere in the league, plan on taking Robinson in the majority of leagues on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Mike Williams, WR, TB |
Williams held to one catchNews: Tampa Bay WR Mike Williams registered one reception for 31 yards during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 17. Williams was targeted only twice by QB Josh Freeman as three other Tampa Bay receivers finished with more receiving yards. It was the second time in his last three games of the regular season he was held to less than two catches as he notched a total of 65 receptions on the year. Analysis: Williams actually matched his catch total from last season, but drastically underwhelmed with his scoring production. The 24-year-old finished with just three touchdowns this season after posting an impressive 11 scores during his rookie campaign last year. He struggled to develop the same consistency with Freeman that he enjoyed last season and his Fantasy value will certainly take a hit heading into the 2012 season. Williams will only be entering his third NFL season and could still be a solid WR option in the middle rounds Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | LeGarrette Blount, RB, TB |
Blount runs into the groundNews: Tampa Bay RB LeGarrette Blount finished with only 12 yards on six carries during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 17. Blount was held to less than 25 rushing yards for the third straight outing as he posted a lowly average of 2.0 yards per attempt during Sunday's game. Blount fared better in the passing game as he matched a season-high with three catches for 14 yards on four targets from QB Josh Freeman. Analysis: Blount seemed to land in the doghouse at the end of the season as he failed to reach double-figures in carries during the last three games. The 25-year-old was a massive disappointment after unexpectedly rushing for 1,000 yards in his rookie campaign last season and finished with just 781 this year. Blount dealt with fumbling issues and injuries earlier in the year en route to just five rushing touchdowns. Fantasy owners should look to him in the middle rounds of 2012 drafts -- if he retains a starting position. |
| 1/1/2012 | Buccaneers, TQB TB, |
Freeman tops personal passing markNews: Tampa Bay QB Josh Freeman connected on 31 of his 45 passes for 274 yards and two touchdowns during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss at Atlanta in Week 17. Freeman also thew three interceptions -- the seventh time this season he was picked off multiple times. He finished the regular season with 22 interceptions and just 16 touchdown passes as he regressed during his third NFL season. “You have to keep the game close. Early turnovers don’t allow you to do that," Freeman said. "They capitalized on every turnover and with that you aren’t going to win football games.” Analysis: Though he struggled this season, Freeman became the first quarterback in Tampa Bay history to reach 3,400 passing yards in consecutive seasons. Freeman finished the year with 3,592 yards passing, but only surpassed the 300-yard mark twice during the regular season. The 23-year-old was expected to build on his breakout campaign from last season, but instead his Fantasy value will likely be diminished entering next season. A healthy Freeman could be a possible value pick in the middle rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kellen Winslow, TE, TB |
Winslow catches fire lateNews: Tampa Bay TE Kellen Winslow posted a game-high seven receptions for 56 yards during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 17. Winslow collected nine targets from QB Josh Freeman as he mustered 8.0 yards per catch. He also fumbled the ball for the second game in a row. Analysis: Winslow quietly surpassed his reception total from last year (66) as his scoring production took a hit because of the sporadic play of Freeman. He finished with at least 70 catches in a season for the fourth time in his career, but reached the end zone only two times. He is normally a better scoring option as he represents a massive target near the end zone. Consider him a quality Fantasy TE option in the later rounds of 2012 drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Dezmon Briscoe, WR, TB |
Briscoe finds end zone twiceNews: Tampa Bay WR Dezmon Briscoe registered a season-high eight receptions for 53 yards and two touchdowns during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss at Atlanta in Week 17. Briscoe connected with QB Josh Freeman on both scores to finish with multiple touchdown catches for the first time this season. He also collected a game-high 11 targets from Freeman. Analysis: Briscoe broke through among the team's receivers as Tampa Bay's main scoring threat down the stretch and finished with six total touchdowns this season. The eight catches matched the second-year wideout's output from his previous five games combined and he could see an increase role in the team's offense next season. Fantasy owners should look to him as a possible sleeper candidate in deeper formats for 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Connor Barth, K, TB |
Barth finishes with few chancesNews: Tampa Bay K Connor Barth drilled one field goal and an extra point during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 17. Barth was true on his 41-yard field goal in the third quarter -- the 15th kick he's connected on this season from outside of 40 yards. Analysis: Barth was limited to just one extra-point attempt as Tampa Bay tried two-point conversions following its last two touchdowns. The 25-year-old finished with 100 points for the second straight season, but with the Bucs' sluggish offense, he remains a low-end Fantasy K option for 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Patrick Peterson, CB, ARI |
Peterson gets rookie recordNews: With a 42-yard punt return in the second quarter, Cardinals DB Patrick Peterson set an NFL record for punt return yards by a rookie. The Steelers' Louis Lipps (656) held the record previously. Peterson finished with four tackles in the 23-20 victory in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Analysis: Peterson clearly established himself as one of the game's top punt returners this season, and even showed some improvement with his covering skills over the last few weeks of the year. The rookie clearly looks to have a bright future in the league, so consider him a No. 2 Fantasy DB heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Preston Parker, WR, TB |
Parker fuels Bucs receiversNews: Tampa Bay WR Preston Parker tallied four receptions for a team-high 74 yards during the Buccaneers' 45-24 loss to Atlanta in Week 17. Parker was targeted six times by QB Josh Freeman as he registered an average of 18.5 yards per catch. It was his best catch total since Week 2. Analysis: Parker had been limited in Tampa Bay's passing game recently as he totaled just one reception over his past two outings. But he was able to shine on Sunday as the Falcons focused on stopping Buccaneers WR Mike Williams. Unfortunately for Parker, he was unable to halt his long scoring drought (seven games) and finished with just three scores this year. Parker could have sleeper potential entering the 2012 Fantasy season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, ATL |
Rodgers runs for first TDNews: Atlanta RB Jacquizz Rodgers recorded eight carries for 24 yards and a touchdown during the Falcons' 45-24 victory over Tampa Bay in Week 17. Rodgers reached the end zone on a 1-yard run during the first quarter for the rookie's first career rushing touchdown. Analysis: Rodgers was emerged as the backup to starting RB Michael Turner as he also is a better pass-catcher than Jason Snelling. The 21-year-old has hauled in at least one pass in five consecutive games and had 188 total receiving yards in the regular season -- nearly matching his output on the ground (205). Fantasy owners should consider Rodgers a marginal RB option in Fantasy playoff formats for the Falcons. |
| 1/1/2012 | Seahawks, DST SEA, |
Seahawks unable to stop CardinalsNews: The Seahawks allowed 23 points on 388 yards of total offense in Week 17 against the Cardinals. Seattle gave up 257 yards in the air, including 149 to Larry Fitzgerald. The Seahawks were able to force a pair of turnovers in the 23-20 loss, but allowed Arizona to put points on the board in every quarter. Analysis: The Seahawks actually finished as one of the highest scoring Fantasy DSTs, thanks to scoring four touchdowns over a three-game stretch back in early December. The unit racked up 35 sacks and forced 31 turnovers on the year, while scoring five total TDs. Seattle to looks to have a solid core of players in place coming back next season, so the unit could end making some noise once again. Consider the Seahawks a low-end No. 1 Fantasy DST heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Curtis Lofton, MLB, ATL |
Lofton highly active againNews: Atlanta LB Curtis Lofton posted a game-high 14 tackles during the Falcons' 45-24 victory over Tampa Bay in Week 17. The impressive total also represented a season high for Lofton, who reached double-digits in tackles seven times during the regular season. He also picked off a pass by QB Josh Freeman in the second quarter and returned it 26 yards for a touchdown. Analysis: Lofton was limited in practice last week with an ankle injury, but didn't seem to be bothered by the issue as he finished the regular season with a career-high 147 tackles. The 25-year-old remains a solid option worthy of a selection in the early rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Cardinals, DST ARI, |
Cardinals able to slow down LynchNews: The Cardinals were able to slow down the Marshawn Lynch and the Seahawks in Week 17. Lynch did rack up 86 yards on the ground, but was held out of the end zone for the first time in 11 games in the 23-20 win. Arizona held Seattle to 191 yards passing, while forcing a turnover and racking up a pair of sacks. Analysis: Arizona's defense was pretty bad to start out the season, but really came on late. The unit finished with year with 40 sacks and four touchdowns, while forcing 18 turnovers. With a young nucleus in place, the Cardinals DST could make some noise next season. Keep an eye on what pieces the team decides to add in the offseason. For now, consider the Cardinals a No. 2 Fantasy DST heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Calais Campbell, DE, ARI |
Campbell leaves with ankle injuryNews: Cardinals DL Calais Campbell left Week 17 against the Seahawks with an ankle injury. Campbell was taken immediately back to the locker room and did not return in the 23-20 win. He finished with one tackle prior to leaving the contest. Analysis: Campbell turned in a career season in Arizona, racking up 72 tackles, eight sacks and a pair forced fumbles. The former University of Miami standout said his injury is not that serious and he should be fine for the start of 2012. As long as he is healthy, Campbell can be considered a high-end Fantasy DL heading into next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jay Feely, K, ARI |
Feely supplies game-winner for CardinalsNews: Cardinals K Jay Feely had a perfect outing in Week 17 against the Seahawks. He made all three of his field goals and converted both of his extra points. He a 41-yarder in the first half before nailing one from 43 yards in the fourth quarter. Then in overtime, Feely connected on a 28-yard field goal to propel Arizona to the 23-20 win. Analysis: Feely made 19 of 24 field goals this season but was not much of an option in Fantasy due to the Cardinals' low-scoring offense. Consider the 35-year-old a low-end Fantasy K on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Early Doucet, WR, ARI |
Doucet puts up a dud in finaleNews: Cardinals WR Early Doucet was not much of a factor in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Doucet finished with just one reception for 7 yards in the contest, and was unable to find the end zone. He was targeted three times by John Skelton in the 23-20 loss. Analysis: Doucet jumped all over most Fantasy owners radar after his 105-yard performance in Week 1, but turned out to be a very streaky option. While he did turn in his best overall season as a pro, he really fell off at the end of the year, racking up just 11 receptions for 164 yards over his last five games. However, hopefully the Cardinals won't need to use three different QBs next season and Doucet will be able to settle into Arizona's No. 2 receiving option. However, owners should consider him merely a low-end option heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Steven Hauschka, K, SEA |
Eight points for Hauschka in Week 17News: Seahawks K Steven Hauschka had a productive outing in Week 17 against the Cardinals. He made 2 of 3 field goals and converted both of his extra points in the 23-20 loss. He made his field goals from distances of 26 and 43 yards. Analysis: Hauschka had a career campaign in his first season with the Seahawks but was not a huge option in Fantasy. Unless he kicks for a team that scores a bunch of points in 2012, plan on ignoring him in the majority of Fantasy formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Todd Heap, TE, ARI |
Heap finally finds end zone in finaleNews: Cardinals TE Todd Heap was able to find the end zone in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Heap was on the receiving end of a 13-yard scoring strike from John Skelton in the third quarter. He finished with two receptions for 35 yards in the 23-20 victory, averaging 17.5 yards per reception. Analysis: Heap was one of the bigger disappointments in Fantasy this season, finishing with just 24 catches for 273 yards and a score. Injuries limited the veteran to just 10 games this year and he never really came close to sniffing 100 receiving yards in any contest. Hopefully Heap will be able to heal up and be a bit more productive in his second year with the Cardinals. However, owners should consider merely a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Sterling Moore, CB, NE |
Moore comes up big in Week 17News: Patriots DB Sterling Moore, who had been a non-factor on defense virtually all season, came through with two interceptions Week 17 against the Bills, returning one 21 yards for a touchdown. He had only one tackle in the contest, however. Analysis: Moore entered the game with only six tackles all season, and he obviously didn't have any interceptions. He actually began the season on the Raiders practice squad, making his contributions in Week 17 even more unlikely. Still, the two interceptions were more likely a case of Moore being in the right place at the right time than him emerging as a star. You should continue to ignore him in Fantasy IDP leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Eric Weddle, FS, SD |
Weddle caps off solid campaignNews: Chargers DB Eric Weddle played in his final game of the 2011 season in Week 17 against the Raiders. He finished with five tackles and also broke up a touchdown in the 38-26 win. Weddle finished with year with 71 tackles and a career-high seven interceptions. Analysis: Weddle was more of a run-stopper in his early years but has developed into a ball-hawking safety for the Chargers. He should only continue to grow as a Fantasy option at age 26 so consider him a solid DB in IDP formats on Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | LaRod Stephens-Howling, RB, ARI |
Stephens-Howling productive in spot startNews: Cardinals RB LaRod Stephens-Howling played well in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Stephens-Howling, who started in place of the injured Beanie Wells, finished with 93 yards on 21 carries in the 23-20 victory. His longest run went for 39 yards, but he was unable to score in the contest. Analysis: Stephens-Howling played well on Sunday and nearly eclipsed the 100-yard mark in his first start of the year. However, 24-year-old really didn't make much of a Fantasy impact during his third year in the league. He finished with just 405 total yards from scrimmage, while only finding the end zone twice. With Wells expected to be healthy and the start next season for the Cardinals, Stephens-Howling will likely once again be reduced to more of a handcuff option in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Mark Anderson, DE, NE |
Anderson reaches double digitsNews: Patriots DL Mark Anderson recorded a sack Week 17 against the Bills, giving him 10 on the season. He also had seven tackles, including three solo, in the contest. Analysis: Anderson hadn't recorded double-digit sacks in a season since 2006, when he had 12 as a rookie. He's hardly an elite pass rusher, but his performance in 2011 is enough to make him relevant in Fantasy again. Treat him as a low-end IDP option entering 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Devin McCourty, CB, NE |
Another interception for McCourtyNews: Patriots DB Devin McCourty, who recorded his first interception of the season in Week 16, added another Week 17 against the Bills. He also had five tackles, including two solo. Analysis: McCourty missed a couple of games due to a shoulder injury but was a fairly good tackler for a defensive back when healthy. The interceptions are rare enough for him that he might go undrafted in 2012, but you shouldn't forget about him in Fantasy IDP leagues, especially if your league favors tacklers. |
| 1/1/2012 | Justin Durant, OLB, DET |
Durant paces Lions defenseNews: Detroit LB Justin Durant posted a team-high tackles during the Lions' 45-41 loss to Green Bay in Week 17. Durant amassed 20 tackles over his final two games of the regular season to finish with 68 stops during his first season with Detroit. Analysis: Durant dealt with a hamstring injury earlier this season and was limited to just 13 games. Still, he surpassed his tackle total from last year and represents a low-end LB option in the later rounds of Fantasy IDP drafts for next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kellen Heard, NT, BUF |
Heard gets two sacks at onceNews: Bills DL Kellen Heard, who had gone all season without recording a sack, recorded two in the season's final game Week 17 at New England. He also had five tackles, including three solo, and a forced fumble. Analysis: As an interior lineman, Heard is more of a space-filler than a playmaker and generally doesn't contribute much statistically. You can continue to ignore him in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Tramon Williams, CB, GB |
Williams tackles season highNews: Green Bay DB Tramon Williams finished with nine tackles and two passes defended during the Packers' 45-41 victory over Detroit in Week 17. Williams' impressive tackle total, which included seven solo stops, matched his highest output of the season. Analysis: Williams finished without an interception in the last six games of the regular season as he his four picks were down from last year (six). He still remains a solid defender as his 64 tackles were a career high. Consider him a quality option in the later rounds of 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, OAK |
DHB closes 2011 campaign strongNews: After posting 303 yards receiving with a touchdown over his last three games, Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey had another solid performance in Week 17 against the Chargers. He caught nine passes for 130 yards and a score in the 38-26 loss. He recorded his fourth touchdown of the year in the first quarter when QB Carson Palmer found him from 3 yards out. He had a long reception of 39 and averaged 14.4 yards per grab. Heyward-Bey, who was targeted 17 times in the contest, led Oakland in receiving. Analysis: Heyward-Bey struggled earlier in the year and was even benched at one point but his value in Fantasy took off as soon as Palmer came over from the Bengals. His ability to stretch the field finally panned out this season and he finished with career marks in every category. The 24-year-old still has some decent upside and he should continue to grow, especially with Palmer throwing his way. Target him in the late rounds on Draft Day as he could end up being a solid sleeper in most formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | George Wilson, SS, BUF |
Wilson finishes with career highNews: Bills DB George Wilson continued to pile up the tackles Week 17 at New England, finishing with 10 (six solo) to give him a career-high 106 for the season. He also forced a fumble in the contest. Analysis: Wilson's career high in tackles is especially impressive when you consider he missed three games earlier this season with a neck issue. Between the tackles and the occasional interception, he's a borderline No. 1 DB in Fantasy IDP leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Nick Barnett, ILB, BUF |
Barnett ends on high noteNews: Bills LB Nick Barnett recorded 11 tackles, including three solo, Week 17 at New England, giving him 130 for the season. He also had an interception -- his third of the season. Analysis: In his first season with the Bills after eight with the Packers, Barnett was as reliable as ever with the tackles and contributed his share of big plays as well. He's getting up there in years, but when healthy, he's still capable of performing like a No. 1 Fantasy LB. Expect to draft him as such in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Chester Taylor, RB, ARI |
Taylor finds the end zone in finaleNews: Cardinals RB Chester Taylor was able to find the end zone for the first time this season in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Taylor was able to scamper in the end zone on a 1-yard run in the first quarter. He briefly left with an injury but did return to finish with 8 yards on three carries in the 23-20 win. Taylor also caught a pass for 6 yards. Analysis: Taylor has done little all season, but at least he was able to finally get into the end zone on Sunday. The veteran finished with just 77 yards rushing this season and it seems highly unlikely he will be back with the Cardinals next season. Unless he lands with a team that will give him a decent number of touches, Taylor likely won't have much value heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Julius Peppers, DE, CHI |
Peppers blocks kick in winNews: Bears DL Julius Peppers didn't contribute much statistically Week 17 at Minnesota, with his lone tackle coming on a half sack, but he blocked a 48-yard field goal attempt by K Ryan Longwell in the second quarter, helping lead the Bears to a 17-13 victory. Analysis: Peppers finishes the 2011 season with 10 1/2 sacks, which is enough to make him a worthwhile option in Fantasy IDP leagues for sure. But unfortunately, when he's not getting the sacks, he doesn't have much to fall back on except for the occasional blocked kick. Despite his name value, he's more like a No. 2 IDP option than a No. 1. |
| 1/1/2012 | Brian Robison, DE, MIN |
Robinson ends year right wayNews: Vikings DL Brian Robison recorded another sack Week 17 against the Bears, giving him one in back-to-back games to close out the season. He also had three tackles, including two solo, and a forced fumble in the contest. Robison finishes the year with eight sacks, almost doubling his previous career high of 4 1/2. Analysis: Robison's improvement in 2011 was enough to make him relevant in Fantasy, but it doesn't mean he's on the verge of breaking out as a superstar. Because you can't expect more than the occasional sack from him, he'll be just a low-end IDP option entering 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | E.J. Henderson, MLB, MIN |
Henderson slows down a littleNews: Vikings LB E.J. Henderson, who entered with a combined 26 tackles in his last two games, took a small step back with eight, including seven solo, Week 17 against the Bears. He did, however, force a fumble. Analysis: Henderson finishes 2011 with 110 tackles, putting him over 100 for the fourth time in his career. That's a decent enough number for a linebacker, but because Henderson isn't a reliable source of sacks or interceptions, he'll be more like a No. 3 Fantasy IDP option entering 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Chad Greenway, OLB, MIN |
Greenway gets a rare sackNews: In addition to his usual high number of tackles, Vikings LB Chad Greenway picked up a sack -- his second of the season -- Week 17 against the Bears. His eight tackles (six solo) give him a total of 152 on the season. Analysis: Greenway had 144 tackles last season and has clearly emerged as one of the most reliable contributors in the category. He had six games with double-digit tackles this season. As long as your Fantasy IDP league doesn't place too much emphasis on sacks and interceptions, you'll want to target Greenway as a No. 1 LB in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | James Jones, WR, GB |
Jones motoring vs. DetroitNews: Green Bay WR James Jones garnered a season-high six receptions for 89 yards during the Packers' 45-41 win over Detroit in Week 17. Jones had a long catch of 40 yards as he finished with his best receiving output since Nov. 24, also against the Lions (94 yards). Analysis: Jones reached the end zone twice during his previous game last week, but could not join the scoring parade on Sunday. Green Bay QB Matt Flynn passes for six touchdowns, but was unable to connect with Jones on his eight targets to the speedy wideout. Jones has been plagued by inconsistency during the regular season, but could break out again in the postseason. Consider him a viable option in Fantasy playoff formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Sebastian Janikowski, K, OAK |
Janikowski kept busy in Week 17News: Raiders K Sebastian Janikowski had a busy outing in Week 17 against the Chargers. He made all four of his field goal attempts and converted two extra points in the 38-26 loss. He made his field goals from distances of 27, 32, 43 and 52 yards. Analysis: Janikowski continues to be one of the better options in Fantasy as he has the leg to make long field goals and usually sees a ton of work playing for Oakland. He made 31 of 35 field goals this season and will head into 2012 as a top option once again. Janikowski should be one of the first kickers taken off the board on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | John Skelton, QB, ARI |
Skelton leads Cardinals to another winNews: Cardinals QB John Skelton for almost 275 yards and a touchdown in Week 17 against the Seahawks. Skelton, who once again started in place of the injured Kevin Kolb, was able to hook up with Todd Heap on a 13-yard scoring strike in the third quarter. He completed 22 of his 40 pass attempts for 271 yards in the 23-20 victory, but was picked off once on the afternoon. Skelton also racked up 19 yards on the ground and completed a pass to eight different receivers in the contest. He finished with a QB rating of 74.1. Analysis: Skelton had his knee drained prior to the start of the contest and reportadly fainted after standing up to quickly. However, he was able to snap out of it in time to play on Sunday and lead the Cardinals to their eight win of the year. While Skelton has played well in Kolb's absence this season, Arizona seems to be committed to giving Kolb the starting gig next season. Even if Skelton got a chance to start, he would merely be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Nick Novak, K, SD |
Novak makes 1 of 2 in Week 17News: Chargers K Nick Novak converted most of his chances in Week 17 against the Raiders. He made 1 of 2 field goals and all five of his extra points in the 38-26 win. He made a 51-yarder in the second quarter before missing one from 44 yards in the fourth quarter. Analysis: Novak took over for the injured Nate Kaeding in Week 2 and ended up having a productive season in Fantasy. He made 27 of 34 field goals on the year, including going 4 for 7 from 50-plus yards. He could be a viable option in Fantasy in 2012 if he lands with a high-scoring team so keep an eye on his situation during the offseason. |
| 1/1/2012 | Charlie Peprah, SS, GB |
Peprah a stop signNews: Green Bay DB Charlie Peprah notched a game-high 11 tackles, including eight solo stops, during the Packers' 45-41 victory over Detroit in Week 17. It was the second game in a row Peprah recorded 11 tackles as he finished with 94 stops during the regular season. Analysis: Peprah is among the league leaders in interceptions with five, but has consistently improved his tackling production in recent weeks. The 28-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season, but he still remains a low-end Fantasy option in IDP drafts for 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jacoby Ford, WR, OAK |
Not much for Ford in returnNews: After missing the previous six games due to a foot injury, Raiders WR Jacoby Ford returned in Week 17 against the Chargers. He finished with two catches for 13 yards in the 38-26 loss. Analysis: Ford finished 2011 with 19 catches for 273 yards with one touchdown. While he has some big-play ability, he has a long way to go before becoming a reliable option in Fantasy. Plan on ignoring Ford in the majority of Fantasy leagues on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Ahmard Hall, FB, TEN |
Hall departed early in Week 17News: Titans RB Ahmard Hall left Week 17's game early with a probable concussion. He had run the ball twice for 7 yards and made a catch for 4 yards before leaving the game, and he also lost a fumble. Analysis: Hall barely made an impact in Fantasy this season. His season was going to be over anyway, as the Titans missed the playoffs, so he can be ignored in all Fantasy formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Damian Williams, WR, TEN |
D. Williams has rib injuryNews: Titans WR Damian Williams left Week 17's game at the Texans with a rib injury. Coach Mike Munchak told reporters that Williams would be re-evaluated on Monday. Williams made two catches for 21 yards before leaving the game. Analysis: With the Titans missing the playoffs, Williams' season would be over anyway. He had some productive games this season, but he is likely to go undrafted in the majority of leagues next fall. |
| 1/1/2012 | Doug Baldwin, WR, SEA |
Baldwin puts up 40 yards in finaleNews: Seahawks WR Doug Baldwin finished with three receptions for 40 yards in Week 17 against the Cardinals. His longest reception went for 21 yards, but Baldwin was unable to find the end zone in the 23-20 defeat. He was targeted four times by Tarvaris Jackson on the afternoon. Analysis: Baldwin started to see some run toward the end of the season and took advantage of his extended playing time. The rookie was able to find the end zone four times this year, while showing the ability to stretch the field. The Seahawks remain very high on the 23-year-old out of Stanford and he looks to have a bright future in the league. However, because he has yet to prove himself as a reliable Fantasy option, owners should consider Baldwin merely a low-end option heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Louis Murphy, WR, OAK |
Murphy makes Week 17 his bestNews: Raiders WR Louis Murphy had his best performance of the year in Week 17 against the Chargers. He posted a season-high 72 yards receiving on five catches. He also had a 27-yard run in the 38-26 loss. He had a long reception of 28 and averaged 14.4 yards per grab. Murphy, who was targeted six times, finished third on Oakland in receiving behind WRs Darrius Heyward-Bey (130 yards) and Denarius Moore (101 yards). Analysis: Murphy showed some solid growth during his first two years in the NFL but took a big step back this season. While injuries slowed him down a bit, it looks as though he has been surpassed on the depth chart by the likes of Heyward-Bey, Moore and rookie Jacoby Ford. He will enter 2012 with little value in Fantasy so plan on ignoring him in most formats on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Golden Tate, WR, SEA |
Tate nets 46 yards in finaleNews: Seahawks WR Golden Tate was not much of a factor in Week 17 against the Cardinals. Tate finished with five receptions for 46 yards in the 23-20 defeat, but was unable to get into the end zone. He had a long of 23 yards and was targeted six times by Tarvaris Jackson in the loss. Analysis: Tate got a few starts toward the end of the season, as Seattle receiving corps became decimated by injuries. However, the 23-year-old didn't make much of an impact with his extended playing time, racking up 19 receptions for 209 receiving yards over his last five games. While the Seahawks remain very high on Tate, he has yet to prove that he can be a reliable Fantasy option. Consider him worthy of merely a late-round selection in deeper formats heading into 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Dexter McCluster, RB, KC |
McCluster finishes year wellNews: Chiefs WR Dexter McCluster had one of his best games of the season in Week 17 against the Broncos, as he rushed for his first touchdown on the ground of the season and added 61 yards on 12 carries and 25 yards on three catches. It was the sort of all-around, dual threat performance the Chiefs have been hoping for from him all season, and he finally found it at the end. Analysis: McCluster ended the season with 328 receiving yards on 46 catches and 521 yards on the ground on 102 carries. McCluster clearly has a lot of talent, but he was never able to emerge as a consistent playmaker for the Chiefs in his second season. Jamaal Charles is likely to return from his knee injury next season, putting McCluster back as a backup option. He will likely not be much more than a late-round handcuff option on Draft Day next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Brandon Coutu, K, BUF |
Coutu's debut not so stellarNews: Making his NFL debut in place of the injured Rian Lindell (shoulder), K Brandon Coutu had a chance to put the Bills up 24-14 at halftime Week 17 at New England, but he pulled the 45-yard field goal attempt wide left. He did kick three extra points in the contest, but he wouldn't get a chance at another field goal. Analysis: Coutu has made regular appearances for various teams during the preseason, but Sunday's game was his first chance to kick when it mattered. Clearly, he didn't make the most of the opportunity, so you shouldn't expect him to claim a job anywhere to begin 2012. You can ignore him in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Tashard Choice, RB, BUF |
Choice makes lone carry countNews: Bills RB Tashard Choice, who is serving as the backup for C.J. Spiller with starter Fred Jackson sidelined by a broken fibula, got only one carry Week 17 at New England. Fortunately, it went for a touchdown, as he scored a 4-yard plunge in the first quarter. He also had a 9-yard catch in the contest. Analysis: Choice began the year with the Cowboys and also spent some time with the Redskins before ultimately landing with the Bills. He has been productive enough in a reserve role to get some looks in Fantasy over the years, but as much as he bounced around in 2011, you can't have much confidence in him entering 2012. If he secures a backup role, he'll be a worthy handcuff option in the late rounds, but nothing more. |
| 1/1/2012 | Ricardo Lockette, WR, SEA |
Lockette finds end zone vs. CardinalsNews: Seahawks WR Ricardo Lockette was able to find the end zone for the first time this season in Week 17 against the Cardinals. Lockette was on the receiving end of a 61-yard strike from Tarvaris Jackson in the third quarter. It was his lone catch and target in the 23-20 defeat. Analysis: Lockette was signed off the practice squad a few weeks back due to Seattle's mounting injury problems at WR. While the 25-year-old did show the ability to stretch the field in his brief tenure with the Seahawks, he likely won't be counted on to be one of the team's main weapons heading into 2012. Lockette should go undrafted in all formats heading into next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Derek Hagan, WR, BUF |
Hagan fills Johnson's voidNews: Bills WR Derek Hagan was a surprise contributor Week 17 at New England, leading the team in targets (10), receptions (seven) and receiving yards (89). The 89 receiving yards were his most for a single game since Dec. 9, 2007, when he was a member of the Dolphins. The majority of Hagan's production came in the absence of top WR Steve Johnson, who was benched by coach Chan Gailey after drawing a 15-yard penalty for excessive celebration in the first quarter. Analysis: Hagan is a journeyman who didn't even begin this season with the Bills, so you shouldn't put too much stock into this one strong performance at the end of the season. He'll most likely have to battle for a roster spot in 2012, so you should expect him to go undrafted in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Denarius Moore, WR, OAK |
D. Moore carves up Chargers againNews: After going for 123 yards and two scores against the division foe earlier in the year, Raiders WR Denarius Moore had another solid performance in Week 17 against the Chargers. He hauled in three catches for 101 yards in the 38-26 loss. He had a long reception of 78 and averaged 33.7 yards per grab. Moore, who was targeted six times, finished second on Oakland in receiving behind WR Darrius Heyward-Bey (130 yards). Analysis: Moore showed some big-play ability during his rookie campaign and finished the year with six total touchdowns. He averaged 18.7 yards per reception and appeared to develop a nice rapport with QB Carson Palmer. He should only continue to grow as a Fantasy option so target Moore in the later rounds on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Alphonso Smith, CB, DET |
Smith nabs another pickNews: Detroit DB Alphonso Smith registered a season-high eight tackles, including seven solo stops, and an interception during the Lions' 45-41 loss at Green Bay in Week 17. Smith picked off Packers QB Matt Flynn for his third interception of the season. Analysis: Smith's interception output stalled during his third season in the NFL as he failed to build on the five picks he recorded last year. His other two interceptions this season came in one game against Minnesota. Smith should not be viewed as a worthwhile option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Leon Washington, RB, SEA |
Washington finally finds end zoneNews: Seahawks RB Leon Washington was able to find the end zone for the first time this season in Week 17 against the Cardinals. Washington was able to break free on a 48-yard scamper in the the third quarter, capping off a three-play, 74-yard scoring drive. He finished with 78 yards rushing on seven carries in the 23-20 defeat, while also hauling in two receptions for 12 yards. Analysis: Washington turned in his best game of the season during Sunday's finale, as he finally was able to get some decent touches. While the 29-year-old has shown flashes of his potential, he continues to have a hard time seeing consistent snaps on offense. Seattle seems content to use him primarily on special teams, which will likely be his role heading into next season. Unless that changes, Washington can go undrafted in the majority of formats in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Antonio Smith, DE, HOU |
Smith gets two sacksNews: Texans DL Antonio Smith padded his sack total in the season's final week, as he recorded two sacks in a Week 17 loss to the Titans. He finished the regular season with 6.5 sacks. Smith also recorded two tackles in the game. Analysis: Smith finished with a flourish, but his production over the course of the year was relatively modest. Going into next season, he will continue to be a low-end Fantasy DL option in IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kevin Boss, TE, OAK |
Boss injured on scoring playNews: Raiders TE Kevin Boss left Week 17 against the Chargers in the fourth quarter after taking a hard hit from DB Steve Gregory. He hauled in a 22-yard scoring strike from QB Carson Palmer but laid on the ground motionless after taking the hit to his head. He was able to walk off under his own power but did not return to the contest. Boss finished with three catches for 33 yards before being forced from the game. Analysis: Boss posted his third touchdown of the year on Sunday and will have the entire offseason to recover from his injury. After thriving in his years with the Giants, he took a big step back in Fantasy this season but was performing better after the acquisition of Palmer. Still, owners should plan on ignoring him in the majority of leagues on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Marshawn Lynch, RB, SEA |
Lynch has TD streak snappedNews: Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch has his touchdown streak snapped during Week 17 again st the Cardinals. Lynch, who had found the end zone in 11 straight games entering the contest, finished with 86 yards on 19 carries in the 23-20 loss. He also caught two passes for 5 yards to finish with 88 total yards on a combined 21 touches. Lynch averaged 4.2 yards each time he touched the ball. Analysis: Lynch finally had his touchdown streak snapped on Sunday, but still put together a career season in Seattle. The 25-year-old finished with over 1,400 total yards from scrimmage -- 1,204 -- on the ground to go along with 13 total touchdowns. Six of his scores came over the final five games of the year and Lynch also went over 100 yards on the ground in three of those contests. Now the debate starts on where Lynch should be drafted next year. It should be a lot higher than his average draft position of 84.8 he posted this past year and some even have him pegged as the third-best RB out there. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy RB heading into the 2012 season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Donnie Avery, WR, TEN |
Avery gets first catch, TDNews: Coming into Week 17, Titans WR Donnie Avery had yet to make a catch this season, but he made up for it in the season's final game. In a win over the Texans, Avery made three catches for 45 yards, including a one-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. Prior to the game, Avery had been targeted just five times all season, but he was thrown to six times just in Week 17. Analysis: Avery made an impact in the season's final week, but that was after being a non-factor for the entire year. He is not likely to play a significant role next season, and he can be ignored in all drafts in the fall. |
| 1/1/2012 | Seahawks, TQB SEA, |
Jackson goes for 222 and TD in finaleNews: Seahawks QB Tarvaris Jackson throw his 14th touchdown pass of the season in Week 17 against the Cardinals. Jackson was able to find WR Ricardo Lockette on a 61-yard touchdown strike in the third quarter, which tied the game at 20. He completed 21 of his 35 pass attempts for 222 yards in the 23-20 defeat. but was picked off Richard Marshall in the second half. Jackson also racked up 3 yards on the ground and completed a pass to nine different receivers in the contest, while finishing with a QB rating of 82.9. Analysis: Jackson was able to put up career numbers in his first year in Seattle, throwing 14 touchdowns, while racking up 3,091 yards passing. However, turnovers were an issue for the 28-year-old, as he was picked off 13 times, while also fumbling nine times. Jackson only threw more than one TD in three games this season, and there are some rumblings that Seattle could be looking to upgrade the QB position. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how things play out over the offseason. Even if Jackson gets a chance to start once again next year, should only be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB. |
| 1/1/2012 | Charles Tillman, CB, CHI |
Tillman's big TD also historicNews: DB Charles Tillman delivered the big blow for the Bears in their 17-13 victory at Minnesota in Week 17. He happened to be in the right place at the right time in the second quarter, catching a pass that bounced off the hands of RB Toby Gerhart and returning it 22 yards for a touchdown. The interception return gave him five for his career, most in team history. "One day when I'm old and retired, I will look back at my stats and say, 'Yeah, that is good,'" he said. "In the moment, right now, I'm just trying to get better, to keep going and keep rising." Analysis: Tillman also had six tackles, including two solo, on the day, which is more what he's known for contributing in Fantasy. He finishes the season with a career-high 99 and is still productive enough at age 30 to target as a top DB in Fantasy IDP leagues in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Rob Bironas, K, TEN |
Bironas ends on accuracy streakNews: Titans K Rob Bironas was perfect in his three field goal attempts in a Week 17 win over the Texans. Bironas hit field goals from 21, 43 and 33 yards, and he also made both of his extra-point attempts. He finished the season 29 for 32 on field goals, and the last time that he missed an attempt was in Week 12 against the Buccaneers. Bironas also extended his NFL-record streak of 10 straight games with a converted field goal of at least 40 yards. Analysis: The Titans did not provide Bironas with a wealth of scoring opportunities, but he made the most of the ones he had this season. Bironas was a reliable start in most weeks, and the same should hold true for next year. He will be worth targeting in most Fantasy formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Bears, DST CHI, |
Bears DST gets big TDNews: The Bears won on the strength of their defense Week 17 at Minnesota, limiting the Vikings to 13 points on 301 yards. But the big blow came in the second quarter, when DB Charles Tillman happened to be in the right place at the right time, catching a pass that bounced off the hands of RB Toby Gerhart and returning it 22 yards for a touchdown. The Bears had a total of three interceptions in the game. They also had two sacks and a blocked field goal. Analysis: Even with the struggles of the offense following the loss of QB Jay Cutler (thumb) in Week 11, the Bears DST has managed to remain one of the more productive units in Fantasy, and it certainly took advantage of a favorable matchup in Week 17. With an expected return to health for Cutler this offseason, the Bears defense won't have to spend so much time on the field in 2012 and should get back to being a top Fantasy unit. Expect it to go off the board among the top 10 DSTs on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Maurice Morris, RB, DET |
Morris' production slippingNews: Detroit RB Maurice Morris netted only 13 yards on four carries during the Lions' 45-41 loss at Green Bay in Week 17. Morris finished with less than five attempts for the third time in the past four games as Detroit continues to favor airing the ball out on offense (502 passing yards). Analysis: Not only has Morris been limited by the Lions' potent passing game, but he continues to lose touches to starting RB Kevin Smith, who finished with 61 total yards on Sunday. Morris had his best outing of the regular season in his previous meeting with the Packers, but could not find much running room and posted just 3.3 yards per carry in Week 17. He should be viewed as a marginal Fantasy option in deeper playoff formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Titans, TQB TEN, |
Hasselbeck sharp in victoryNews: After enduring a string of four straight games with fewer than 200 passing yards, Titans QB Matt Hasselbeck finished the season with a streak of three games in which he surpassed that benchmark. In Week 17, Hasselbeck completed 22 of 35 passes for 297 yards, as the Titans edged the Texans, 23-22. He threw for two touchdowns, and for the first time in three weeks, he did not throw an interception. Hasselbeck ran the ball only once, gaining minus-1 yard. Analysis: Hasselbeck started and finished the season strong, but in the middle were many poor performances as well as injury woes. Even at his best this year, Hasselbeck was a No. 2 Fantasy QB, and next season as a 37-year-old, he may struggle to maintain that status. |
| 1/1/2012 | Robbie Gould, K, CHI |
Another quiet day for GouldNews: Bears K Robbie Gould contributed only five points Week 17 at Minnesota, putting him under six for the fourth time in five games. He kicked a 27-yard field goal in the fourth quarter and also had two extra points. Analysis: The Bears offense evaporated when QB Jay Cutler went down with a thumb injury in Week 11, and Gould's production evaporated with it. At full strength, the Bears offense has enough firepower to make Gould a top-12 Fantasy K, so you wouldn't want to forget about him on Draft Day 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Roy Williams, WR, CHI |
Williams finishes on high noteNews: Bears WR Roy Williams closed out the regular season with his second touchdown of the season Week 17 at Minnesota, hauling in a 22-yard pass from QB Josh McCown in the second quarter. Williams, who was targeted a team-high seven times in the contest, finished with four catches for 60 yards. He had six catches for 81 yards -- both season highs -- in Week 16. Analysis: Williams reached the 60-yard mark only three times all season. The fact that two of those performances came in the final two games of the season likely has more to do with the absence of Johnny Knox (back) than anything else. Williams is no guarantee to return to the Bears in 2012. Wherever he lands, he likely won't be a starter. You can expect him to go undrafted in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Antonio Gates, TE, SD |
Gates finds end zone in Week 17News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates went over the century mark for the first time this season in Week 17 against the Raiders. He caught five passes for 106 yards with a touchdown in the 38-26 win. He caught a 38-yard scoring strike from QB Philip Rivers in the first quarter, giving him seven touchdowns on the year. Gates, who averaged 21.2 yards per grab, finished second on San Diego in receiving behind WR Malcom Floyd (127 yards). Analysis: A nagging foot injury slowed down Gates a bit this season but he still was able to put up some solid production for owners. He finished with 64 catches for 778 yards in 13 games and continued to rack up the touchdowns. The 31-year-old will likely deal with his foot injury for the rest of his career but his numbers over the last few seasons make him a solid option in Fantasy. Consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Maurice Jones-Drew, RB, JAC |
MJD's big day gives him rushing titleNews: Maurice Jones-Drew ran for a season-high 169 yards, clinching the NFL rushing title and breaking Fred Taylor's single-season franchise record in the Jacksonville Jaguars' 19-13 victory Sunday. Jones-Drew started the day with a comfortable lead in the rushing race. And when Philadelphia's LeSean McCoy and Houston's Arian Foster were inactive, it pretty much locked up the rushing title for Jacksonville's stocky star. But Jones-Drew wanted more. He talked earlier in the week about how special it would be to break Taylor's franchise mark of 1,572 yards set in 2003. He did it in style, taking a third-quarter handoff around the left side, breaking a tackle near the line of scrimmage and picking up 56 yards. It was his longest run in more than two years. Teammates patted him on the helmet and shoulder pads. Two plays later, fans gave him a standing ovation as his achievement was announced over the public address system. Jones-Drew also sealed the victory by picking up a first down in the closing minutes. MJD had 169 yards on 25 carries with a 4-yard catch. Analysis: Jones-Drew's season ends with 1,606 rush yards, 374 receiving yards and 11 total touchdowns. He's managed to post at least 1,150 total yards and seven touchdowns in every single season of his six-year career. There's no reason to believe he won't be able to do it again in 2012, if not have another year like this one. Jones-Drew is a safe No. 1 Fantasy RB well worth a first-round pick in all drafts next summer. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kahlil Bell, RB, CHI |
Bell quiet other than fumbleNews: Bears RB Kahlil Bell, who was making his second start in place of the injured Marion Barber (calf), wasn't nearly as productive at Minnesota in Week 17 as he was in his first start, when he rushed for 121 yards on 23 carries at Green Bay. He rushed for only 54 yards on 17 carries against the Vikings. He also had five catches for 28 yards. His biggest contribution (if that's what you want to call it) was losing a fumble in the first quarter that led to the Vikings only touchdown. Analysis: Bell fumbled twice in his first start for Barber, but he didn't lose either of them. Though he impressed as a rusher and receiver in his time starting for the Bears, his inability to hold on to the football will likely keep him from getting any real starting consideration in 2012, especially if Matt Forte re-signs after missing the final four games of 2011 with a sprained knee. As a backup to Forte, Bell would be a worthy handcuff option in 2012, but as such, he would be no more than a late-round pick in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Malcom Floyd, WR, SD |
Floyd caps off 2011 season in styleNews: Chargers WR Malcom Floyd saved his finest performance of the season for Week 17 against the Raiders. He caught seven passes for 127 yards with a touchdown in the 38-26 win. He scored his fifth touchdown on the year in the fourth quarter when QB Philip Rivers found him from 43 yards out. He was targeted a team-high nine times in the contest and averaged 18.1 yards per grab. Floyd led San Diego in receiving in the victory. Analysis: Floyd was limited to 12 games this season due to injury but was very productive in the contests he played. He finished the year with 43 catches for a career-high 856 yards, with most of his grabs resulting in first downs. The 30-year-old has developed a solid rapport with Rivers in San Diego and should only continue to grow as a Fantasy option. Target Floyd in the middle-to-late rounds on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Josh McCown, QB, CHI |
McCown at least impresses coachNews: Making his second start in place of the Caleb Hanie, who was ineffective in four starts replacing the injured Jay Cutler, Bears QB Josh McCown ended the team's five-game losing streak by leading it to a 17-13 victory over the hosting Vikings in Week 17. McCown's numbers weren't all that impressive -- he completed 15 of 25 passes for 160 yards, a touchdown and an interception -- but he impressed coach Lovie Smith with his mastery of the offense after only signing with the Bears in Week 11. "He has played in two steady games and has given us an opportunity to win both of them," Smith said. "Just a great job by him not having training camp with us and all of that." Analysis: McCown also ran four times for 30 yards, giving the few Fantasy owners who started him a little extra boost. He won't compete for a starting job anywhere in 2012, but he may have convinced Smith he deserves a shot as Cutler's backup. Even if he gets it, though, McCown won't be worth drafting in any Fantasy leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jason McCourty, CB, TEN |
McCourty passes the century markNews: Titans DB Jason McCourty finished the season on a high note, recording nine tackles in a Week 17 win over the Texans. McCourty ended the year with a total of 105 tackles. Analysis: McCourty took a huge step forward this season. While he is not yet a must-start, he will be worth strong consideration in IDP formats next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Nate Washington, WR, TEN |
Washington enjoys second halfNews: Titans WR Nate Washington overcame a frustrating first half to help his team to a Week 17 win over the Texans. Washington was targeted six times before halftime, but he made just two catches for 14 yards. In the third quarter, though, Washington caught a deep pass from QB Matt Hasselbeck for a 55-yard gain, which ultimately helped to set up a 33-yard field goal by Rod Bironas. Late in the fourth quarter, Washington scored on a 23-yard pass from Hasselbeck, which put the Titans up for good. He finished with four catches for 92 yards. Analysis: Washington finished the season strong, scoring five touchdowns over the last seven games, and he also exceeded 90 receiving yards three times over that span. While he was far from being a must-start, Washington was relevant for owners in most formats this year, particularly over the latter weeks. At the very least, he will be worth targeting in deeper formats next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jared Allen, DE, MIN |
Allen just misses sack recordNews: Though he made a valiant effort to break the single-season sack record on the final day of the season, Allen finished just short Week 17 against the Bears. He finished with 3 1/2 sacks on the day, giving him 22 for the season. The record is 22 1/2, set by the Giants' Michael Strahan in 2001. “It just shows how tough he is and how hard he plays," said fellow defensive lineman Kevin Williams. "It was a joy to watching him -- I don’t even know what I would do if he would've got another sack. Man, it was unbelievable to watch, he came so close.” Allen had a total of five tackles on the day, three of them solo. Analysis: Allen was on pace to break the record earlier this season, but he slowed down toward the end, which is why he needed a season-high 3 1/2 sacks just to come close to the record. Still, 22 sacks is nothing to be ashamed of. After four straight seasons of double-digit sacks, Allen clearly took another step forward this year and is now an elite contributor in Fantasy IDP leagues. Expect him to be one of the first defenders off the board in those formats in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Sean Lee, ILB, DAL |
Lee active vs. GiantsNews: Cowboys LB Sean Lee has been ruled active for Week 17 against the Giants. He dealt with a wrist injury and illness leading up to Sunday. Analysis: Lee has enjoyed a breakout season this year and is just six tackles shy of reaching the century mark for the first time in his short career. The 25-year-old also has been solid defending the pass and should be considered a solid start in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | DeMarcus Ware, OLB, DAL |
Ware active for Week 17News: Cowboys LB DeMarcus Ware has been ruled active for Week 17 against the Giants. He was limited in practice leading up to Sunday due to a neck injury. Analysis: Ware has dealt with the neck issue for the past few weeks, but has remained on the field. The menacing linebacker is currently second in the NFL with 18 sacks this season. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy IDP formats for Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Ryan Longwell, K, MIN |
Longwell gets two more FGsNews: Vikings K Ryan Longwell kicked two field goals for the second straight game Week 17 against the Bears, connecting on a 26-yarder in the first quarter and another 26-yarder in the second quarter. He also had an extra point. He did, however, have a 48-yard field goal attempt blocked by DL Julius Peppers in the second quarter. Analysis: Longwell finished the season about as well as he could have considering the state of the Vikings offense, which was led by rookie QB Christian Ponder and was without star RB Adrian Peterson. He's still a good enough kicker to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy option, but he'll need a better supporting cast to get drafted as such in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Anthony Dixon, RB, SF |
Dixon gets second TDNews: The 49ers called on RB Anthony Dixon to score on a goal line run, and though it took him two tries, he succeeded in a Week 17 win over the Rams. Dixon's first attempt from the 1-yard line was initially ruled a touchdown, but was reversed upon review. On second down, however, Dixon broke the plane of the goal line and scored his second touchdown of the season. He carried the ball eight times for 21 yards, and he also caught a pass for 6 yards. Analysis: Dixon amassed just 87 rushing yards on the year, playing a minimal role in the 49ers' offense. He can be ignored in all postseason Fantasy formats, especially with Frank Gore almost certain to play a much larger role than he did in Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Joe Webb, QB, MIN |
Webb again solid in reliefNews: Vikings backup QB Joe Webb, who contributed three touchdowns -- two in the air and one on the ground -- after starter Christian Ponder left with a concussion last week, again got significant playing time Week 17 against the Bears after Ponder left with a hip pointer in the second quarter. Webb threw two interceptions, but he was able to move the ball, completing 17 of 32 passes for 200 yards. He also ran four times for 2 yards. Though coach Leslie Frazier reiterated after the game that Ponder is the starting quarterback heading into the offseason, Webb indicated that he would like a shot at the role. “I always feel like [I can be a starting QB],” said Webb. “It’s just my confidence. I’m going to feel like that no matter what. I feel like I’m able to play with the guys, and I feel like I’m able to lead the team to win." Analysis: Webb's rushing ability would make him an intriguing option in Fantasy if he ever did become a full-time starter, but considering the Vikings invested a first-round pick in Ponder, they'll want to give him every opportunity to become a franchise quarterback. Webb is a name to remember in case he makes a play for the job next preseason, but for now, you should plan on him going undrafted in Fantasy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Osi Umenyiora, DE, NYG |
Umenyiora returns in Week 17News: Giants DL Osi Umenyiora has been ruled active for Week 17 against the Cowboys. He missed the previous four games due to ankle and knee injuries. Analysis: Umenyiora has been limited to only eight games this season as injuries have taken a toll on New York's defensive line. Consider him a decent option in Fantasy IDP formats for Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jets, DST NYJ, |
Long drive derails JetsNews: The Jets entered Week 17 needing a win along with losses by three other teams to reach the playoffs. Instead, they finished the season with three consecutive defeats after allowing 16 unanswered points in a 19-17 loss to Miami on Sunday. New York gave up six third-down conversions during the Dolphins' 21-play, 94-yard drive early in the fourth quarter for their only touchdown. The Jets managed just once sack in the game. Analysis: The New York defense seemed to earn a reprieve when Miami RB Reggie Bush was ruled out for the game because of a knee injury. The Jets yielded just 82 rushing yards, however, they could not limited their own mistakes and forced just two turnovers against the Dolphins. The lone sack was the first time in New York's past six outings it did not finish with multiple sacks. Fantasy owners should expect the Jets' defense to improve next season. The unit will remain a top DST option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Nick Folk, K, NYJ |
Quiet finish for FolkNews: Jets K Nick Folk converted his lone field-goal attempt and two extra points during New York's 19-17 loss to Miami in Week 17. Folk booted a 31-yard field goal during the second quarter to help give the Jets a 10-3 lead. Analysis: Folk has used marginally during the end of the season as New York's offense limped toward the finish. He attempted just seven field goals over his last six games and tried just 25 total kicks this year -- his lowest since 2008 with Dallas. Fantasy owners should view him as a low-end K option in drafts for next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Josh Scobee, K, JAC |
Scobee gets his kicks vs. ColtsNews: Josh Scobee hit four field goals and an extra point, helping pace the Jaguars to victory over the Colts in Week 17. Scobee was good from 25, 32, 47 and 39 yards. Analysis: Scobee should be an interesting kicker to consider late in drafts in 2012. If the Jaguars add some explosiveness to their offense, Scobee could kick more. We'll see how his situation shakes out. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jeremy Kerley, WR, NYJ |
Kerley takes off in finaleNews: Jets WR Jeremy Kerley had four catches for a game-high 71 yards during New York's 19-17 loss at Miami in Week 17. Kerley was targeted six times by QB Mark Sanchez as he posted an impressive average of 17.8 yards per reception. It was his highest receiving output since Nov. 13 against New England (79 yards). Analysis: Kerley participated in all three offensive phases during Sunday's game as he completed a pass for 41 yards and netted 17 yards on his lone rushing attempt. The speedy rookie was a quality addition to New York's receiving game and could land an expanded role next season after finishing with nearly 30 catches this year. Fantasy owners should track his status as he could make for a late-round sleeper in most 2012 drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Percy Harvin, WR, MIN |
Harvin back over century markNews: Vikings WR Percy Harvin, who had fallen short of 70 receiving yards in three games since his season-best 156-yard performance against the Broncos in Week 13, got back over the century mark Week 17 against the Bears, catching 10 passes on 16 targets for 115 yards. His touchdown, through, came out of the backfield in the first quarter, when he took a handoff 5 yards up the middle for the score. He finished with five carries for 13 yards. Analysis: Though Harvin's receiving yards had been lacking in recent weeks, he had been so effective as a ball carrier that Week 17 was actually the fifth time in six games that he gained more than 100 yards of total offense. The third-year player got off to a slow start in 2011, but he emerged as the focal point of the Vikings offense when RB Adrian Peterson had to miss a few games because of injury. Peterson is no guarantee to be ready for the start of 2012 coming off surgery to repair a torn ACL and MCL, but even if he is, Harvin could potentially take a step forward if QB Christian Ponder improves in his sophomore season. Plan to target Harvin as a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Dustin Keller, TE, NYJ |
Keller fights to the finishNews: Jets TE Dustin Keller posted a game-high seven receptions for 45 yards and a touchdown during New York's 19-17 loss to Miami in Week 17. Keller hauled in every pass thrown in his direction from QB Mark Sanchez as he topped seven catches for the second straight outing. He connected with Sanchez on a 1-yard touchdown strike in the first quarter to give the Jets a 7-3 lead. It was his fifth touchdown catch of the season. Analysis: Keller showed he can be a standout receiving option as he amassed 15 receptions over his last two games of the season. His numbers remain inconsistent because of Sanchez's outings, but he was able to match his career high with five touchdown catches. Keller also set career highs for receptions and yards. He will enter the 2012 season as a quality Fantasy TE option late in drafts after the elite players are off the board. |
| 1/1/2012 | Dallas Clark, TE, IND |
Clark catches five passesNews: Colts TE Dallas Clark started and caught five passes for 53 yards at Jacksonville in Week 16. His 2011 season ends with 34 catches for 352 yards and two scores, easily his worst season since his rookie year. Analysis: Clark is expected to return to the Colts in 2012 and could rebound depending on who quarterbacks the team. He'll be worth drafting at the very least with a late-round pick. |
| 1/1/2012 | Pierre Garcon, WR, IND |
Garcon does little in last loss of '11News: Pierre Garcon caught two passes for 22 yards against the Jaguars in Week 17, keeping his skid at Jacksonville alive. Garcon finished the 2011 season with 70 catches for 947 yards and six touchdowns, good enough to be career-best numbers across the board. Analysis: Garcon is scheduled to be a free agent this offseason and could find himself on a new team. It's pretty clear that Garcon has some good ability but it's also clear that he's inconsistent. Expect him to be taken in the middle of 2012 drafts as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR or a quality reserve. |
| 1/1/2012 | Ronde Barber, CB, TB |
Barber's season overNews: Tampa Bay DB Ronde Barber left in the third quarter of Week 17 at Atlanta -- the second time he departed the game -- with a hand injury. Barber returned to the sideline in street clothes and with his hand wrapped in tape. He finished with four tackles before leaving the game. Analysis: Barber left Sunday's game initially with an arm injury before being able to return. The 15-year veteran, passed LB Derrick Brooks for most games played in Tampa Bay history at 225. Barber has hinted at retirement before this season. Fantasy owners should monitor his status as he remains a decent late-round option in IDP drafts for 2012 when healthy. |
| 1/1/2012 | Austin Collie, WR, IND |
Collie saves best for lastNews: Austin Collie caught nine passes for 96 yards with a touchdown at the Jaguars in Week 17, posting his best single-game of the season. Collie was targeted 11 times. Analysis: This was Collie's lone touchdown on the year as he finished with 54 catches for 514 yards. Collie will be an intriguing choice in drafts in 2012: With the Colts likely to upgrade at quarterback and Collie entering a contract year, he could rebound off of his terrible 2011 stats and be useful for Fantasy owners. Consider him with a middle- to late-round pick as a sleeper so long as the Colts indeed cover themselves at quarterback. |
| 1/1/2012 | LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, NYJ |
LT undecided about futureNews: Jets RB LaDainian Tomlinson paced the team on the ground with 56 rushing yards on 11 carries during New York's 19-17 loss to Miami in Week 17. Tomlinson, whose rushing output was also a season high, finished with 10-plus carries for the first time this year. Earlier this week, the 32-year-old hinted at retirement if he doesn't land a job with suitable a contender. He also said he would not sign for the league's minimum salary. Analysis: With his strong rushing total, Tomlinson (13,684 yards) moved into fifth place on the NFL's all-time list and surpassed Jerome Bettis (13,662). Tomlinson, who also hauled in four passes for 23 yards, said he will take some time before making a decision on returning. "I’ll take two or three weeks and talk to my family," a clearly emotional Tomlinson said. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status, but he clearly isn't the dynamic runner he was earlier in his career. Consider him a late-round Fantasy option in 2012 if he does return. |
| 1/1/2012 | Joseph Addai, RB, IND |
Nineteen yards for AddaiNews: Colts RB Joseph Addai had just 19 yards on eight carries against the Jaguars on Sunday. He did not make a catch. Addai's season ends with 433 rush yards and one rushing touchdown, along with 93 receiving yards. Analysis: With an inflated salary for 2012, reportedly $5 million, chances are Addai's days in Indianapolis are numbered. He probably has seen his best days as he was banged up and missed four games in 2011 and hasn't played 16 games since his rookie year in 2006. Addai will probably be an afterthought to Fantasy owners next summer. |
| 1/1/2012 | Donald Brown, RB, IND |
Brown totals 39 yards in lossNews: Colts RB Donald Brown again didn't get many opportunities to run against the Jaguars, running for 24 yards on eight carries and adding 15 yards on two catches on Sunday. He finished with 645 rush yards, 86 receiving yards and five rushing touchdowns on the year. Analysis: Brown had a great Week 15 and followed it up with awful games in Weeks 16 and 17. Chances are he'll be a part of the Colts in 2012 because of his cheap contract but he won't be an every-down type of rusher. The team-oriented Brown is worth nothing more than a middle- to late-round pick in drafts next summer. |
| 1/1/2012 | Shonn Greene, RB, NYJ |
Greene out with whimperNews: Jets RB Shonn Greene registered 14 attempts for 55 yards during New York's 19-17 loss to Miami in Week 17. Greene carried the ball at least 14 times for the fifth consecutive game, but posted a subpar 3.9 yards per attempt -- just the second occasion he did not top at least four yards during the second half of the season. The third-year back also failed to pace the team in rushing as LaDainian Tomlinson had 56 yards on 11 carries. Analysis: Greene was banged up by a lingering rib injury during the last month of the season and surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark only once since suffering the setback at Denver on Nov. 17. Still, he was able to surpass 1,000 rushing yards for the first time in his career and also posted an impressive six touchdowns while taking over as New York's leading ball-carrier. He will enter the 2012 season again as the Jets' primary option in the backfield and should be viewed as a solid No. 2 Fantasy RB worthy of a selection early in drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Tom Brandstater, QB, STL |
Brandstater sees game actionNews: For the first time this season, Rams QB Tom Brandstater got into a game, as he took snaps during the team's final possession during a Week 17 loss to the 49ers. Starter Kellen Clemens, filling in for the injured Sam Bradford (ankle), left the contest with an ankle injury, and Brandstater finished out the drive. He did not complete either of his two pass attempts. Analysis: With Bradford, Clemens and A.J. Feeley all down with injuries, the Rams had no one to turn to but Brandstater. He is not even assured of making a roster next season, so he can be ignored in all drafts this fall. |
| 1/1/2012 | Cadillac Williams, RB, STL |
Cadillac finally scores in Week 17News: For the first time this season, RB Cadillac Williams reached the end zone, but the Rams lost to the 49ers in Week 17. Williams gained just 17 yards on seven carries, but he scored on a 1-yard run with fewer than five minutes left in the game. Williams' score brought the Rams within seven points of the lead, but they failed to score again in the game's final minutes. Analysis: Williams' touches and production have dwindled for the second straight year. He was a marginal producer, as Steven Jackson carried the bulk of the responsibility for the Rams' rushing attack. Williams will probably fill a similar role next season, meaning that he can go undrafted in most leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Colts, TQB IND, |
Orlovsky leads Colts to Luck?News: Dan Orlovsky followed up two straight wins as a starter with a rough outing at Jacksonville. The Jaguars roughed up Orlovsky, picking him off twice recovering one of his two fumbles in a Week 17 win. Orlovsky completed 27 of 40 passes for 264 yards with a touchdown to Austin Collie, his first of the year. With the loss, the Colts have the top pick in the 2012 NFL Draft and will have the opportunity to draft Stanford rookie QB Andrew Luck with the choice -- or trade it and bring back Peyton Manning as their starter. Analysis: Orlovsky won't be back in Indianapolis next season as anything more than the third quarterback, and even that is a stretch. He had some good weeks, and Week 17's matchup suggested that he'd deliver again, but he's been exposed time and again as a below-average quarterback. |
| 1/1/2012 | James Laurinaitis, MLB, STL |
Laurinaitis strong to the finishNews: LB James Laurinitis was in his customary position atop the tackles standings for the Rams in a Week 17 loss to the 49ers. He led the team with nine tackles, finishing the season with 142. Analysis: Laurinaitis doesn't help much in other categories, but few linebackers can offer tackles in such quantities on a consistent basis. He will go into next season as one of the top LB options for owners in IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jonathan Vilma, MLB, NO |
Vilma should be OK for playoffsNews: Sean Payton said he wanted to be smart by sitting both S Malcolm Jenkins (neck) and LB Jonathan Vilma (knee), who were both questionable coming into the Panthers game, for their regular-season finale. Payton said both probably would have been able to play if it were next week in the playoffs. Analysis: Both are solid starts in playoff Fantasy formats. In season, Vilma is worth starting as a No. 2 Fantasy LB. |
| 1/1/2012 | Brandon Lloyd, WR, STL |
Lloyd has best game in weeksNews: Rams WR Brandon Lloyd capped off his season with a big game, hauling in six passes for 100 yards in a Week 17 loss to the 49ers. Lloyd played an important part in the Rams' late rally, as he scored on a 36-yard pass from QB Kellen Clemens with under five minutes left in the game. It marked the first time since Week 12 that Lloyd scored a touchdown, and it was the first time all season that he scored and gained 100 or more yards in a single game. Analysis: Lloyd's production this year was a far cry last season's, and the Rams' offense as a whole will have to improve before Lloyd can hope to return to his previous level. Despite the down season, Lloyd will have something to contribute for Fantasy owners next season, though he may not be taken within the first five or six rounds like he was in this year's drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Panthers, DST CAR, |
Panthers get crushed by SaintsNews: The Panthers DST allowed 45 points, 409 passing yards and 208 rushing yards to the Saints in Week 17. They had one interception of QB Drew Brees and didn't sack him once. Analysis: Using the Panthers DST in Week 17 was a death sentence for Fantasy owners, as was the case for much of the season. Chances are they'll improve their defense during the offseason and could be considered as a one-week replacement during 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Randy Starks, DE, MIA |
Starks sparks defenseNews: Miami DL Randy Starks had two tackles and a sack during the Dolphins' 19-17 win over the Jets in Week 17. The 305-pound Starks also registered two interceptions to give him three total picks during his eight-year NFL career. Analysis: Like many of Miami's defenders, Starks heated up at the end of the season and notched a sack in the last three sacks. His total of 4 1/2 sacks matched the second-best total of his career. He should not be considered a valuable option in 2012 Fantasy IDP drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Bryant Johnson, WR, HOU |
B. Johnson gets first score in two yearsNews: Texans WR Bryant Johnson played a key role late in Week 17's loss to the Titans. Johnson was not targeted until the fourth quarter, but in the final period he made a 40-yard catch, and then he ended the game's scoring with a 5-yard touchdown reception. The last time that Johnson scored a touchdown was in the final week of the 2009-10 season, when he played for the Lions. In addition to his 45 receiving yards, Johnson ran the ball once for 1 yard. Analysis: Johnson finished the regular season with just six receptions. He is well past his prime and should not be expected to be a significant contributor in the postseason or beyond. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kevin Burnett, ILB, MIA |
Burnett saves best for lastNews: Miami LB Kevin Burnett tallied a season-high 14 tackles, including 11 solo stops, during the Dolphins' 19-17 victory over the Jets in Week 17. Burnett topped double-digits for the fourth time this season and surpassed the 100-tackle plateau for the first time in his career. Analysis: Burnett struggled adjusting to Miami's defense after arriving in the offseason from San Diego and failed to surpass five tackles in his first five games of the year. However, he surged late and finished with 105 stops. Consider him a quality option late in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | James Casey, TE, HOU |
Casey picks up the slackNews: Taking advantage of the absence of TE Owen Daniels (knee) and a limited role for WR Andre Johnson, TE James Casey played a prominent role in the Texans' passing game in Week 17. Casey led Houston with 91 receiving yards on seven catches in a 23-22 loss to the Titans. Over the first 15 games of the season, Casey had made just 11 catches for 169 yards. Analysis: Casey was used more as a blocking back than as a receiver this year, but given the opportunity to contribute to the passing game, he put up some nice numbers. Owners cannot expect Casey to repeat this type of performance in the postseason, so he can be ignored going forward. |
| 1/1/2012 | Olindo Mare, K, CAR |
Mare totals five pointsNews: Panthers kicker Olindo Mare kicked one field goal (41 yards) and added two extra points against the Saints in Week 17. Analysis: Mare will compete to stay with the Panthers in 2012 and might be worth using as a one-week replacement next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Spencer Larsen, FB, DEN |
Larsen’s season over with knee injuryNews: Broncos FB Spencer Larsen left Week 17 vs. the Chiefs with a knee injury, and the team announced he would not return. There is no indication of how serious the injury is beyond that, but this obviously ends his season. Analysis: Larsen became a key part of the Broncos’ running game this season, but only as a blocker. He finished the season with 14 carries for 44 years and eight catches for 68 yards, both career highs, in 16 games. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jake Delhomme, QB, HOU |
Delhomme finally appearsNews: For their Week 17 loss to the Titans, the Texans went once again with T.J. Yates under center, but the rookie injured his left shoulder on the first drive, so Jake Delhomme took over for the remainder of the game. In his first game of the season, Delhomme completed 18 of 28 passes for 211 yards, including a 5-yard touchdown throw to WR Bryant Johnson in the closing seconds of the game. Delhomme did not throw an interception, but he did lose a fumble in the second quarter. Analysis: Depending on the status of Yates, Delhomme could wind up starting his first game of this season in the playoffs. He was decent in Week 17, but should Delhomme be the Texans' starter in the postseason, he would be a risky play in postseason Fantasy formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | DeAngelo Williams, RB, CAR |
Williams totals 73 yards in finaleNews: Panthers RB DeAngelo Williams finished the regular season with a whimper, gaining 53 yards on just seven carries and adding 20 yards on a pair of catches. Williams, who had four touchdowns in his last three games, just couldn't find the reps to put up big numbers as the Saints raced out to a big lead. Jonathan Stewart also had two more carries than Williams and scored on a 29-yard run. Analysis: Williams had a pretty good year when you study his season-ending totals: 155 carries for 836 yards and seven rushing touchdowns, adding 16 catches for 135 yards. He's expected to stick around in the two-headed Carolina run game in 2012 and be a No. 3 Fantasy RB with potential for big games given the chance. But as long as he's splitting carries with Stewart (and Cam Newton), his numbers will never be awesome. Figure him to be taken regularly between Rounds 6 and 7 in drafts next summer. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jonathan Stewart, RB, CAR |
Stewart scores in season finaleNews: Panthers RB Jonathan Stewart led the team in carries, yards and added a touchdown in their Week 17 loss to the Saints. He had nine carries for 79 yards including a 29-yard touchdown run. He also caught two passes for 7 yards. Analysis: Stewart's season ends with 761 yards with four touchdowns on 142 carries along with 413 receiving yards and a touchdown catch on 47 receptions. That's not bad considering that he split reps with DeAngelo Williams all season long. Stewart will enter a contract year in 2012 and could be motivated to play well for a new deal. We could see him being an attractive pick between Rounds 6 and 7 in drafts as a No. 3 Fantasy RB, but his upside will be stunted by both Williams and Cam Newton stealing opportunities from him. |
| 1/1/2012 | Dan Carpenter, K, MIA |
Carpenter shows long rangeNews: Miami K Dan Carpenter connected on four field-goal attempts -- all from outside of 40 yards -- and an extra point during the Dolphins' 19-17 victory over the Jets in Week 17. Carpenter's 58-yard field goal just before halftime was the second-longest of his career, trailing the 60-yarder he kicked against Cleveland last season. He also booted field goals of 44 (twice) and 40 yards during Sunday's game. Analysis: Carpenter compensated again for Miami's sluggish offense and finished with a season-high 13 points against the team's division rival. The 26-year-old was perfect in his last three games of the season and should be viewed as a quality K option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jeremy Maclin, WR, PHI |
Maclin tops 100 yards in finaleNews: Eagles wide receiver Jeremy Maclin had another outstanding performance on Sunday of Week 17 in the regular-season finale victory over the Redskins. Maclin did not score in the game, but Michael Vick found him eight times for a game-high 105 yards. Maclin topped 100 yards for the third time on the season and he finished the year with 13 catches for 177 yards and a touchdown in his final two games. Analysis: Maclin was the Eagles top receiver this season as he overtook DeSean Jackson for that honor. The receiver was fantastic all season and only had three games all year with fewer than five Fantasy points. Maclin finished the year with 859 yards receiving and five touchdowns. He should enter next year as a high-end Fantasy option to be drafted beginning in the middle rounds. In fact, Maclin could end up being a breakout stud next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Antwan Barnes, OLB, SD |
Barnes tossed in season finaleNews: Chargers LB Antwan Barnes was ejected in the first quarter of Week 17 against the Raiders. He was called for unsportsmanlike conduct after making a tackle on WR Louis Murphy and was tossed after making contact with an official. “I don’t know what got him upset," coach Norv Turner said. "I know this -- everyone who has ever played in this league knows that if an official is shoving you back and you knock his arm back, you make contact with the official, you’re going to get thrown out of the game.” Analysis: Barnes had a career campaign in 2011 with 11 sacks and 41 tackles while seeing action in all 16 games. He could be a sleeper in Fantasy next season if he can start somewhere so target him in the later rounds of IDP formats on Draft Day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Anthony Fasano, TE, MIA |
Fasano limited in returnNews: Miami TE Anthony Fasano registered four catches for just 11 yards during the Dolphins' 19-17 loss to the Jets in Week 17. Fasano was back in the lineup after missing last week's game with a concussion and collected six targets from QB Matt Moore on Sunday. Analysis: Despite dealing with inconsistency for most of the season, Fasano was beginning to produce in recent weeks. He hauled in four passes twice over his last four games of the season, but his yardage output was limited against New York. Fasano's 2.8 yards per catch was his lowest average of the season when recording at least one reception. He should not be considered a worthwhile option in 2012 Fantasy drafts. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jabar Gaffney, WR, WAS |
Gaffney limited in season finaleNews: Redskins WR Jabar Gaffney put the finishing touches on a solid season for Washington on Sunday of Week 17 at Philadelphia. That said, Gaffney wasn't all that solid in the season-finale loss to the Eagles. Gaffney caught four passes in the game for just 28 yards. His long catch went for 13 yards and he was targeted a team-high 11 times in the game. Analysis: Gaffney was clearly Washington QB Rex Grossman's favorite receiver as the duo starred at the University of Florida together in college. Gaffney scored just one touchdown in the first seven games of the season, but came alive beginning in Week 9 with four touchdowns in his final nine contests. Gaffney heads into the offseason with a lot of momentum as he'll likely be a solid WR option for the Redskins once again next year. Gaffney had just one 100-yard game on the year, though, so he's no more than a No. 3 Fantasy WR heading into next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Santana Moss, WR, WAS |
Moss finishes underwhelming seasonNews: Washington receiver Santana Moss put the finishing touches on a disappointing season on Sunday of Week 17 at Philadelphia. Moss caught three passes in the Week 17 loss for 45 yards. He was targeted by QB Rex Grossman nine times in the game. His long catch went for 22 yards. Analysis: Moss got off to a decent start this season with two touchdown catches in his first four games. Unfortunately, he missed four games with a broken hand and never got going once he returned for Washington. The Washington offense was poor all season and Grossman seemed to favor finding Jabar Gaffney. Moss finished the season with four touchdown catches and not a single 100-yard receiving performance. He's an aging veteran and his Fantasy value will be even lower to begin next season. Moss will likely be no more than a No. 3 Fantasy WR to enter next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Daniel Thomas, RB, MIA |
Thomas can't take capitalize on PTNews: Miami RB Daniel Thomas ran for 28 yards on 12 carries during the Dolphins' 19-17 win over the Jets in Week 17. Thomas earned the starting nod for Miami after RB Reggie Bush was ruled inactive with a knee injury. However, he could not take advantage of the increased workload and finished with less than 30 yards for the third time in his past four games. RB Steve Slaton paced the Dolphins with 55 rushing yards on 11 carries. Analysis: Thomas also struggled in short-yardage situations and was stuffed just shy of the goal line twice during the fourth quarter. The second-round draft pick finished his rookie campaign without a rushing touchdown as he took a backseat to Bush as the season progressed. He displayed glimpses of potential early in the year, but will likely serve only as a complimentary back to Bush in 2012. Consider him a late-round Fantasy option. |
| 1/1/2012 | Ryan Mathews, RB, SD |
Mathews unable to go in season finaleNews: Chargers RB Ryan Mathews was listed among the inactives for Week 17 against the Raiders. He missed two sessions of practice leading up to Sunday due to a lingering calf injury. Mike Tolbert got the start in his place. Analysis: Mathews has rushed for 1,091 yards this season, the first time he has topped the 1,000-yard plateau. Injuries have been a problem for him in each of his first two seasons in the NFL but he has proven to be productive when healthy. Keep an eye out to see if he can return in the playoffs but given his value in Fantasy, plan on targeting Mathews in the early rounds of Draft Day in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Redskins, TQB WAS, |
Grossman loses season finaleNews: Washington QB Rex Grossman recorded his 12th consecutive game with an interception on Sunday of Week 17 in the regular-season finale at Philadelphia. Grossman has now thrown a career-high 20 interceptions on the season. The Washington QB finished the game going 22 of 45 for 256 yards in a loss. He had one touchdown pass to Roy Helu in the game. His QB rating for the game was 64.7. Analysis: Grossman had an up-and-down season for the Redskins. He surprised to begin the year as Washington's starting QB over John Beck. He then lost his starting job for a few weeks due to poor play. When Beck wasn't any better, the Redskins went back to Grossman, who had his moments, for the rest of the season. Entering next year, the Redskins are likely to attempt to find a better QB option. Grossman's value entering next year will have a lot to do with his situation. Right now, it looks like he's going to be a low-end Fantasy option at least heading into next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kellen Clemens, QB, STL |
Clemens leaves in final minutesNews: Rams QB Kellen Clemens left Week 17's game against the 49ers with less than three minutes left in the game, as he injured his right ankle. After the game, Clemens told reporters that X-rays on his ankle were negative. Filling in for Sam Bradford (ankle), Clemens completed 14 of 31 passes for 226 yards with an interception, and he also tossed a 36-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Lloyd. Clemens also ran the ball twice for 18 yards, and he scored on a first-quarter rushing touchdown. Analysis: It was a tough end for Clemens, who helped to keep the Rams in a game that they would eventually lose. He started just three games this year after getting picked up by St. Louis in early December. He filled in only because of injuries to Bradford and fellow backup A.J. Feeley, and going into next season, Clemens is likely to hold a reserve role once again. |
| 1/1/2012 | David Harris, ILB, NYJ |
Calf injury sidelines HarrisNews: Jets LB David Harris left in the third quarter of Week 17 against Miami with a calf injury and is not expected to return, according to the team's official website. Harris finished with two tackles and a pass defended before departing. Analysis: Harris turned in a solid all-around campaign, posting 86 tackles and five sacks during his fifth NFL season. His sack total was one away from establishing a career high. Fantasy owners should view him as a solid option in the middle rounds of IDP drafts for next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Cardinals, TQB ARI, |
Kolb officially ruled inactiveNews: Cardinals QB Kevin Kolb has officially been ruled inactive for Week 17 against the Seahawks. Kolb was listed as questionable heading into the contest as he continues to deal with concussion-like symptoms. Cardinals QB John Skelton sill start in his place. Analysis: Kolb hasn't played since Week 14 against San Francisco, but his production was minimal. The lingering symptoms from his head injury continue to bother him and ultimately cut his season short. The Cardinals won't be playing in the playoffs, so Kolb has plenty of time to recover for the 2012 season. If he can hold on to the starting job in Arizona, Kolb should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB option for next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Greg Olsen, TE, CAR |
Head injury sends Olsen to sidelineNews: Panthers TE Greg Olsen left the team's last game of the season with a first-half head injury and did not return. Olsen got injured going for a long end-zone pass but did not come up with the catch. He did not make a catch in the game. Analysis: Olsen's 2011 was a tale of two halves: He had 359 yards and four touchdowns in his first eight games and had 181 yards and one score in his last eight. He's still expected to be a part of the Panthers in 2012 and should be considered at least worthy of a late-round pick as a borderline Fantasy starter next season. |
| 1/1/2012 | Scott Chandler, TE, BUF |
Chandler leaves with knee injuryNews: Bills TE Scott Chandler suffered a knee injury in the first half Week 17 at New England and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest. He had three catches for 29 yards before leaving. "I don’t know," coach Chan Gailey said when asked about the severity of Chandler's injury after the game. "It is bad enough to keep him out of this game. And I don’t know if it’s an operation or not." Analysis: Chandler returned to the lineup last week after missing the previous two games with an ankle injury. His three catches Sunday were his first since Week 13 against the Titans. Chandler emerged as a top red zone option for QB Ryan Fitzpatrick in 2011, but after recording four touchdown receptions in his first three games, he had only two over his final 11. He'll matter in Fantasy in 2012, but his lack of production between the 20s will likely cause him to go undrafted. |
| 1/1/2012 | Harry Douglas, WR, ATL |
Douglas set for Week 17News: Atlanta WR Harry Douglas is active for Week 17 against Tampa Bay after dealing with groin and shoulder issues in practice last week. Douglas was limited in practice throughout the past week, but was listed as questionable on the team's injury report. Analysis: Douglas has finished the season with a whimper as he's struggled in four straight games heading into the regular-season finale against Tampa Bay. His Fantasy value is not expected to be high for the Week 17 finale as the Falcons will rely on fellow WRs Roddy White and Julio Jones. Douglas caught five passes for 35 yards at Tampa Bay Week 3. Consider him a marginal Fantasy option in the season's final week. |
| 1/1/2012 | Karlos Dansby, ILB, MIA |
Dansby leaves with groin injuryNews: Miami LB Karlos Dansby left in the first quarter of Week 17 against the Jets with a groin injury. His return is questionable. Dansby, who was tangled up attempting to make a tackle near the goal line, was replaced by Marvin Mitchell at the inside linebacker position. Analysis: Dansby was listed on the injury report with a non-injury related issue, but was active for Sunday's game and had two tackles before departing. The 30-year-old showed improvement in his second season with the Dolphins and topped 100 yards. Consider him a mid-range option in Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Rob Ninkovich, OLB, NE |
Ninkovich to keep it going?News: Patriots LB Rob Ninkovich, who was limited in practice leading up to the game because of a hip injury, is active for Week 17 against the Bills. He currently has 6 1/2 sacks on the season after recording one in five of his last six games. Analysis: Ninkovich isn't much of a tackler for a linebacker, but his recent surge in sacks is hard to ignore in Fantasy IDP leagues. Since he's healthy enough to play, he's worth a look as a No. 3 Fantasy LB. |
| 1/1/2012 | Patrick Chung, FS, NE |
Chung back for Week 17News: Patriots DB Patrick Chung, who had missed seven straight game because of a foot injury, is active for Week 17 against the Bills. He was limited in practice leading up to the game because of the injury. Analysis: Before the injury, Chung was piling up a good number of tackles for a defensive back. You might not want to trust him in Fantasy after such a long layoff, but if you're in search of a DB for the season's final week, he's worth a look. |
| 1/1/2012 | Kyle Arrington, CB, NE |
Arrington fine for Week 17News: Patriots DB Kyle Arrington, who has been limited by a foot injury over the last few weeks, is active for Week 17 against the Bills. Arrington has yet to miss a game because of the injury. Analysis: Arrington has seven interceptions on the season and has been a decent source of tackles for a defensive back as well. He should be starting in the majority of Fantasy IDP leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Reggie Bush, RB, MIA |
Bush misses season finaleNews: As expected, Miami RB Reggie Bush is listed among the inactives for Week 17 against the Jets because of a knee injury. Bush was ruled out for Sunday's game after being unable to practice last week with the issue, which he suffered in Week 16 against New England. He had posted 100 rushing yards in four consecutive games before being sidelined for the last game of the season. RB Daniel Thomas will start in his place. Analysis: Bush's absence is a huge blow for Miami. He was enjoying a sterling year and topped 1,000 rushing yards for the first time in his career (1,086). His rushing total was also good for ninth most in the NFL. It doesn't appear his injury is a long-term issue and Bush should be fully prepared for next season. Fantasy owners should consider healthier options for Week 17 while viewing Bush as a possible early-round draft pick in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Lance Briggs, OLB, CHI |
Briggs' ankle not a problemNews: Bears LB Lance Briggs is active for Week 17 at Minnesota despite an ankle injury that has bothered him over the last couple weeks. He played Week 16 at Green Bay with the injury as well. Analysis: Briggs has plenty of name value, but his tackles have been inconsistent from week-to-week this year. Treat him as a No. 2 LB in Fantasy IDP leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Jason Allen, CB, HOU |
Allen to start in Week 17News: Texans DB Jason Allen (thumb) was listed as active for Week 17 against the Titans. He will start in place of Johnathan Joseph, who was a healthy inactive. Analysis: Though Allen will get to start in Week 17, he remains a low-end option in IDP leagues at best. Consider him only in the deepest of leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Devin Hester, WR, CHI |
Hester active despite ankleNews: Bears WR Devin Hester, who has been limited by an ankle injury over the last few weeks, is again active for Week 17 at Minnesota. His contributions have mostly been limited to special teams over the second half of the season, though. He has gone without a catch in six of his last seven games. Analysis: Hester's numbers in recent weeks make him not such an attractive choice to start in Fantasy. Though he began the season as a starter for the Bears, he has been overtaken by other wide receivers in recent weeks, showing once again that his explosive ability as a returner doesn't translate so well to offense. Chances are he won't be much of a sleeper for Fantasy purposes entering 2012, so you should plan on him going undrafted in standard leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | Patrick Willis, ILB, SF |
Willis ready to returnNews: 49ers LB Patrick Willis (hamstring) was listed as active for Week 17 against the Rams. Willis had missed the last three games with his injury and had been listed as questionable on the injury report. Analysis: Now that Willis is back, it's time to get him in your lineup. Be sure to start him in all IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Chris Long, DE, STL |
Long active versus 49ersNews: Rams DL Chris Long was listed as active for Week 17 against San Francisco. He had been on the injury report with an ankle injury. Analysis: Still healthy enough to play, Long remains a viable option for owners in IDP formats. Keep him active in those leagues. |
| 1/1/2012 | A.J. Feeley, QB, STL |
Feeley still out injuredNews: For the fourth straight week, Rams backup QB A.J. Feeley (thumb) was among his team's inactives. Therefore, he will not replace the injured Sam Bradford (ankle) in Week 17 against the 49ers, so the start will go to Kellen Clemens. Analysis: Even if active, Feeley would not be a recommended start, but now he can definitely be ignored in all Fantasy formats for Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Marcedes Lewis, TE, JAC |
Lewis ready for ColtsNews: Jaguars TE Marcedes Lewis is active for the Week 17 game against the Colts. He was limited in practice earlier in the week due to a hamstring injury. Indianapolis ranks 22nd in the league in pass defense, giving up over 237 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 7.9 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Analysis: After posting 10 touchdowns a year ago, Lewis has been very disappointing this season as he has recorded just 36 catches and has yet to find the end zone. That could change on Sunday as the Colts have given up seven scores to tight ends, but owners should not be counting on it. He caught just one pass for minus-4 yards when he faced the division foe earlier in the year so consider Lewis a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Joel Dreessen, TE, HOU |
Dreessen to start in Week 17News: With Owen Daniels (knee) on the inactives list for Week 17 against the Titans, TE Joel Dreessen will get the start in his place. Dreessen himself had been on the injury report with a knee injury. Analysis: Now that owners can be certain that Dreessen will get the start in Week 17, he will have some low-end value for the coming week. Consider him as a No. 2 Fantasy TE with Daniels out. |
| 1/1/2012 | Cliff Avril, DE, DET |
Avril doesn't miss timeNews: Detroit DL Cliff Avril is active for Week 17 against Green Bay despite a nagging back injury. He was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Sunday's game. Analysis: Avril's interception last Saturday was the first of his career as he's mainly been an effective pass rusher this season. He has recorded a career-high 11 sacks and could add to that total against the Packers' replacements on Sunday. Keep him active in most Fantasy IDP formats. |
| 1/1/2012 | Charles Johnson, DE, CAR |
Johnson takes a Week 17 seatNews: Carolina DL Charles Johnson is considered doubtful for Week 17 at New Orleans after missing the entire week of practice with a back injury. Johnson was considered probable with the same issue last week but was able to play, however, his status now appears more cloudy. Analysis: Johnson has recorded nine sacks this season and will finish with that total as he could not play in the Week 17 game. He has also notched 41 tackles and remains a mid-range Fantasy option entering next year. |
| 1/1/2012 | Marion Barber, RB, CHI |
Barber inactive a second timeNews: Bears RB Marion Barber, who missed Week 16 with a calf injury, is inactive again for Week 17 at Minnesota. Kahlil Bell will again start in his place. Analysis: Bell was so effective at Green Bay last week, rushing for 121 yards, that you had to figure Barber might play a lesser role on offense even if he was active. This report is a bigger deal for Bell owners than Barber owners, but the latter should obviously sit Barber. Even before Matt Forte's knee injury, Barber was a relevant Fantasy option because of his role as the goal line back, but Bell's emergence late in the season could alter the depth chart entering 2012. Wherever Barber lands in the pecking order, he doesn't figure to be the starter, so he'll likely be nothing more than handcuff option on Draft day. |
| 1/1/2012 | Johnathan Joseph, CB, HOU |
Joseph inactive for Week 17News: Texans DB Jonathan Joseph is a healthy inactive for Week 17's game against the Titans, according to multiple sources. Jason Allen will start in his place. Analysis: The Texans are resting several of their starters, including Joseph, in preparation for the postseason. Owners in IDP leagues will need to find a replacement for Joseph in Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | Charles Woodson, CB, GB |
Woodson out Week 17News: Green Bay DB Charles Woodson (knee) is inactive for Week 17 against Detroit. Woodson has dealt with a troublesome knee injury for the majority of the season. However, he has overcome the issue and leads the NFL with seven interceptions this year. Analysis: With the Packers already locking up home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, there was no reason to risk possible further injury to Woodson. He should remain reserved in all IDP formats for Week 17. Consider him a high-end Fantasy option when on the field. |
| 1/1/2012 | Clay Matthews, OLB, GB |
Matthews sits in Week 17News: Green Bay LB Clay Matthews (ankle) is inactive for Week 17 against Detroit. Matthews has dealt with a persistent ankle injury for the majority of the season. He registered his third interception of the season last week against Chicago. Analysis: With the Packers already locking up home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, there was no reason to risk possible further injury to Matthews. He should remain reserved in all IDP formats for Week 17. |
| 1/1/2012 | LeSean McCoy, RB, PHI |
McCoy ruled inactiveNews: Philadelphia RB LeSean McCoy was ruled inactive with a troublesome ankle injury for Week 17 against Washington. McCoy was listed as questionable on the team's injury report, but was expected to play after taking all of the first-team reps in Friday's practice. RB Ronnie Brown is expected to start in his place on Sunday. Analysis: The Eagles wanted to keep McCoy on the field in order for him to make a run at the NFL rushing title. He trailed Jacksonville RB Maurice Jones-Drew by 128 yards entering the final week of the season. McCoy's production stalled toward the end of the year as he finished with less than 40 rushing yards in three of his past five games. Fantasy owners should keep McCoy reserved in all formats and consider him a top RB option in 2012. |
| 1/1/2012 | Asante Samuel, CB, PHI |
Samuel misses last game of seasonNews: Philadelphia DB Asante Samuel missed the final two games of the season after injuring his hamstring Week 15. Samuel was inactive for the regular-season finale in Week 17 against Washington. The Eagles season is over as the team did not make the playoffs. Analysis: Samuel was hoping to return Week 16, but in the end, sat out the final two games of the season with the hamstring issue. Samuel finished his season with 34 tackles, three interceptions and a defensive touchdown on the year. That said, he was just a low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats. |
| 12/31/2011 | Jackie Battle, RB, KC |
Battle lands on IRNews: Kansas City placed RB Jackie Battle on injured reserve Saturday with a troublesome foot injury. Battle was in a walking boot and did not practice this week after sustaining a foot injury in last week's loss to Oakland, which eliminated the Chiefs from playoff contention. He was already ruled out for Week 17. Analysis: Battle had taken over as Kansas City's primary running back after All-Pro Jamaal Charles went down with a season-ending knee injury in Week 2. Battle ran for 597 yards and two touchdowns this season. He is likely to land a backup role to Charles next season if he remains with the Chiefs. Fantasy owners should release him in all formats. |
| 12/31/2011 | Shaun Draughn, RB, KC |
Chiefs bring in DraughnNews: Kansas City signed RB Shaun Draughn to its active roster before the Chiefs' season finale against Denver in Week 17. Draughn takes the roster spot of RB Jackie Battle (foot), who was placed on season-ending injured reserve on Saturday. Analysis: Draughn was signed by Washington as an undrafted free agent and spent 13 weeks on the Kansas City practice squad. He’ll provide depth behind Thomas Jones, Dexter McCluster and Le’Ron McClain. Leave him untouched in all Fantasy formats. |
| 12/31/2011 | Chris Greisen, QB, DAL |
Cowboys add QB GreisenNews: Although Dallas QB Tony Romo (bruised hand) is expected to play without issue in Week 17, the Cowboys signed QB Chris Greisen from the practice squad on Saturday. Greisen takes the roster spot of OG Daniel Loper, who was released on Saturday. Analysis: Greisen was added to the roster only for an emergency situation as Dallas secures a playoff spot with a victory over the Giants on Sunday night. Fantasy owners should continue to leave Greisen untouched in all formats. |
| 12/30/2011 | Seneca Wallace, QB, CLE |
Wallace to start finaleNews: Cleveland QB Seneca Wallace will make his third consecutive start in Week 17 against Pittsburgh after the Browns ruled Colt McCoy (head) out for the game. After dealing with DB Ed Reed in a loss to Baltimore last week, Wallace will now face another imposing safety in Steelers counterpart Troy Polamalu. "Both teams give them the liberty and freedom to run around and make plays," Wallace said. "The quarterback must be smart and aware of where they are at all times. They're ball hawks and great tacklers as well." Analysis: Wallace has been decent in his two spot starts and completed at least 57 percent of his passes in each game -- both losses. The 31-year-old has recorded two touchdown passes and an interception while also contributing to the team's running game with his mobility out of the pocket. The Steelers represent another tough matchup and are permitting an average of 11.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season. Wallace is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 17. |
| 12/30/2011 | DeMario Pressley, DT, CAR |
Panthers add PressleyNews: Carolina signed DL DeMario Pressley from its practice squad on Friday after placing WR Legedu Naanee on injured reserve. Analysis: Pressley was released by Denver prior to the start of the season and has been on the Panthers' practice squad all year. Fantasy owners should leave him untouched in all formats. |
| 12/30/2011 | Legedu Naanee, WR, CAR |
Naanee lands on IRNews: Carolina placed WR Legedu Naanee on season-ending injured reserve Friday with a foot injury. Naanee broke a bone in his foot during his last game and was already ruled out for Week 17 against New Orleans. Analysis: Naanee posted a career-high 44 receptions this season, but is still too inconsistent to trust in Fantasy circles. He should remain untouched in all formats. |
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