Berry scheduled for ACL surgery: The Kansas City Star reports that Chiefs safety Eric Berry, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 1, will undergo surgery in the upcoming week to repair his torn ACL. Berry was placed on injured reserve following his injury. (Updated 09/20/2011)
Injury Report
Knee - IR. Out for the season (Updated - 9/14/11)
Fantasy Analysis
Players who suffer ligament tears are usually advised to wait a week or two before having surgery, so that swelling can subside. Not only will Berry be done for this season, but this type of injury could put his status for the beginning of the 2012 season in doubt. One of the top DB options in IDP formats, this will be a tough blow to overcome. Sabby Piscotelli should see more playing time in his absence at strong safety, but does not have anywhere near the upside of Berry. (Updated 09/20/2011).
Eric Berry proved to be a special talent as a rookie in 2010, and he should continue to improve as a sophomore this year. Last season, he had four interceptions, including a defensive touchdown, and two sacks with 92 tackles (77 solo). He has the potential to play like an Ed Reed or Troy Polamalu, but he has to prove he has the durability and longevity to match their talent. Still, the skill level is there, and we like Berry with a mid- to late-round pick on Draft Day. Don't be surprised to see Berry reach 100 total tackles, get a handful of sacks and at least five interceptions in 2011. (Updated 5/3/11)