Peppers blocks kick in win: 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. (Updated 01/01/2012)
Injury Report
No information available at this time (Updated 5/26/12).
Fantasy 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. (Updated 01/01/2012).
05/11/2012 13:55 Bears agree to terms with first-round pick, LB Shea McClellin
The Bears have announced they*ve signed first-round pick (No. 19 overall) Shea McClellin to a four-year contract, and the former Boise State linebacker*s deal is projected to be worth about $8.3 million.
05/08/2012 17:00 Third-down sacks: Seeking biggest stops a defense can get
In an era when passing games rule the day, the biggest job for a defense is to get third-down sacks. Pat Kirwan says that's why finding players who can deliver those -- as the Ravens and Giants do best -- is high priority.
05/08/2012 08:33 Playoffs? These five 2011 also-rans have a good shot at getting there
Which five new teams make the playoffs this season that fell short last season? Clark Judge has a hunch the long-suffering Bills are due, and also expects the Eagles, Chargers, Bears and Seahawks to play come January.
Julius Peppers is expected to continue on as a No. 1 Fantasy option, which is what he's been for much of his career. Peppers' propensity for sacks and decent totals in every other category including tackles is what makes him so appealing to Fantasy owners. Tack on the lack of talent at defensive line compared to past seasons and Peppers is practically worth reaching for. He's a No. 1 defensive lineman worth a middle-round pick in drafts. (Updated 4/19/12)
