News: 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.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss had a quiet game Saturday at Kansas City in Week 16. Boss had no catches on two targets.
Analysis: Boss continues to be a disappointment for Fantasy owners in 2011, and he should not be used in most formats to end the season. Ignore him in all leagues in Week 17 against San Diego.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss had his second decent game in a row in Week 15, as he caught three passes for 37 yards in the Raiders’ 28-27 loss to Detroit. He now has 90 yards, five catches and a touchdown in his last two weeks.
Analysis: Boss has been a major disappointment after signing a free-agent contract with the Raiders in the offseason. He is turning his production up in the final weeks of the season, but he’s still no more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 16 against the Chiefs. Chiefs are the sixth-easiest defense for opposing Fantasy tight ends to score against, but Boss’ production has been so limited that he simply can’t be relied on.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss finally had a solid game for his new team in Week 14 against Green Bay, and now he’s going to have to look to build on it in Week 15 against Detroit. Boss, who received a four year, $16 million contract as a free agent, has been a major disappointment so far. His role has been extremely limited with just 22 catches for 288 yards and two touchdowns on the year, but coming off a game in which he had five catches for 43 yards and a touchdown, there is some hope he could see his role in the offense increase.
Analysis: If Boss is to continue to work his way into the offense, he’ll have to do it against a Detroit team that has not allowed a tight end to reach double digits in Fantasy points since Week 4 against Dallas. They did allow a touchdown to Visanthe Shiancoe in Week 14 and 89 yards to Jimmy Graham in Week 13, but they have been strong otherwise for most of the season. Because of this, Boss is not a recommended Fantasy starter but he could be a No. 2 TE if you’re desperate for Week 15.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss did something against the Packers on Sunday that he hadn't done since Week 6 -- find the end zone. He scored his second touchdown of the season on a 5-yard grab in the fourth quarter and finished with five catches for 43 yards in the 46-16 loss. He was targeted seven times by QB Carson Palmer and averaged 8.6 yards per reception. Boss finished third on Oakland in receiving in Week 14, behind Darrius Heyward-Bey (78 yards) and Louis Murphy (70 yards).
Analysis: Boss had caught just two passes for 16 yards over his last two games so it was nice to see him provide some production for owners on Sunday. He has been pretty disappointing since coming over from the Giants in the offseason but hopefully this performance will get him going down the stretch. Keep an eye on his progress going forward but until he proves to be more consistent, consider Boss as more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 15 against the Lions.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss has been ruled active for Week 14 against the Packers after being limited in practice earlier in the week due to a hip injury. Green Bay ranks 31st in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 293 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 9.8 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: It's been a disappointing campaign for Boss, who was one of the Raiders' top free-agent signings this offseason. He has just 17 catches for 245 yards and one touchdown, which came on a fake field goal. Boss is not a reliable Fantasy option or a recommended start for Week 14.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss (hip) practiced in full for a second straight day Friday and is listed as probable for Week 14 at Green Bay.
Analysis: It's been a disappointing campaign for Boss, who was one of the Raiders' top free-agent signings this offseason. He has just 17 catches for 245 yards and one touchdown, which came on a fake field goal. Boss is not a reliable Fantasy option or a recommended start for Week 14.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss was limited in practice on Wednesday in preparation for Week 14 at Green Bay. Boss is dealing with a hip injury and should be able to play on Sunday. Boss has caught just two passes for a total of 16 yards in his previous two games.
Analysis: Boss' best game this season came back in Week 6 against Cleveland when he caught a 35-yard touchdown pass. Outside of that, Boss hasn't really appeared on the Fantasy spectrum. Boss is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 14, healthy or not.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer targeted TE Kevin Boss five times in Week 13, but Boss came away with only one catch in the 34-14 loss to the Dolphins. For the second straight week, Boss gained a total of eight receiving yards.
Analysis: Boss was a little more involved in the Raiders' offense in Week 13 due to injuries to WRs Denarius Moore and Jacoby Ford, but it didn't help his production. Though Boss gets a favorable matchup in Week 14 with the Packers playing host to the Raiders, he is not reliable enough to start outside of the deepest of leagues.
News: After a three-game stretch in which he was targeted only twice, Raiders TE Kevin Boss has been a little more involved in the passing game of late. Over his last three games, Boss has been targeted 11 times, resulting in eight catches for 77 yards. If he gets a few targets in Week 13 against the Dolphins, Boss could have his best game in awhile. Only four teams have allowed opposing tight ends to gain more yards per catch than the Dolphins have this season, and their passing defense ranks 24th overall.
Analysis: Boss could take a step up this week, but given how little he has produced this year, that may not be saying much. He remains a low-end Fantasy TE option for owners in the deepest of leagues.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss continued his dissapointing first year in Oakland, grabbing just one reception for 8 yards in the Raiders' 25-20 victory over Chicago in Week 12.
Analysis: Boss has topped 40 yards in a game just once this year, and only has one touchdown. He's been a major disappointment, as the Raiders signed him for $16 million to replace Zach Miller. Boss has struggled with injuries, but even when healthy hasn't been a viable Fantasy TE. Don't look his way in Week 13, as the Raiders travel to Miami.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss has found himself more involved in the offense in recent weeks, and that should continue in Week 12 against Chicago. The Raiders had four WRs miss practice with various injuries on Wednesday, so QB Carson Palmer might be looking Boss' way a lot more, after he led the team with six targets in Week 11.
Analysis: The Raiders invested $16 million in Boss this offseason as a free agent, so they'd probably like to get more production out of him, and Week 12 should provide a perfect opportunity to do so. The Bears allow 10.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing TEs, the most points in the NFL, so Boss could be in line for a breakout. Despite the good matchup, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss, who was dealing with a knee injury leading up to the game, looked as healthy as he has all season Week 11 at Minnesota. He caught a season-high five passes for 37 yards, leading the team with six targets. He entered the game with only four catches in his previous five games combined.
Analysis: Carson Palmer faced a heavy pass rush in Week 11, so he had to rely on short passes to Boss more than usual. Still, it's nice to know the quarterback hasn't forgotten about his tight end over the middle. Boss won't contribute much yardage in his current role, but he's still enough of a possibility for a short touchdown catch that he's worth using as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. The Raiders host the Bears in Week 12.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss, who was listed on the injury report as probable for the game, is active for Week 11 at Minnesota despite dealing with a knee injury.
Analysis: If any tight end is going to contribute for the Raiders, it's Boss. Still, he hasn't proven to be a consistent part of the passing game, catching a total of four passes in his last five games. He's just a last resort in Fantasy.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss is listed as probable for Week 11 at Minnesota after developing a late-week knee injury in practice. He was still able to practice in full all week, however. Boss had two catches for 32 yards last week at San Diego, which may not seem like much, but it was one of his best performances of the season. He has only once caught more than two passes in a game and has only once gone for more than 40 yards. He'll be looking to change that on the road in Week 11 against a Vikings defense that ranks 30th against the pass, allowing 272.8 yards per game.
Analysis: The Vikings allow 8.0 Fantasy points per games to tight ends, tied for 11th-most in the NFL, so if Boss is ever going to contribute, this week would be a reasonable time. The Raiders figure to throw plenty against the league's sixth-ranked run defense and are without WR Jacoby Ford. Still, Boss has contributed so little so far that taking a flier on him now seems like a needless risk. Consider him just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss had two catches for 32 yards last week at San Diego, which may not seem like much, but it was one of his best performances of the season. He has only once caught more than two passes in a game and has only once gone for more than 40 yards. He'll be looking to change that on the road in Week 11 against a Vikings defense that ranks 30th against the pass, allowing 272.8 yards per game.
Analysis: The Vikings allow 8.0 Fantasy points per games to tight ends, tied for 11th-most in the NFL, so if Boss is ever going to contribute, this week would be a reasonable time. The Raiders figure to throw plenty against the league's sixth-ranked run defense and will likely be without WR Jacoby Ford. Still, Boss has contributed so little so far that taking a flier on him now seems like a needless risk. Consider him just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss has not been very productive in recent weeks but was able to come up with a couple of grabs in Week 10 against the Chargers. He was targeted two times by QB Carson Palmer, making both of the catches for 32 yards in the 24-17 win. Boss had a long reception of 24 and averaged 16 yards per catch.
Analysis: After catching just one pass for 11 yards over the last two games, Boss showed a bit of life on Thursday and posted multiple catches for the first time since Week 4. He has been a bit of a disappointment since coming over from the Giants in the offseason but with a more stable quarterback situation going forward, he could see improvement in his role. Keep an eye on the situation going forward but until he proves to be more consistent, continue to view Boss as a low-end Fantasy TE.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss, who signed a four-year, $16 million free-agent contract, played only special teams on Week 9 vs. Denver, a development that “surprised” him. “I’ve got a lot of confidence in myself and feel like I can help this team, but that’s something I can’t do when I’m not playing," Boss said. "But I feel confident that I’ll get back out there.”
Analysis: Coach Hue Jackson said he kept Boss and Darrius Heyward-Bey on the bench Week 9 because the offensive sets were better suited for other players. Although, it's a bit alarming that the Raiders would keep Boss on the bench after the investment they made in him in the offseason. Boss' only touchdown this season has come on a trick special teams play and is a very low-end Fantasy option until he starts producing like he did with the Giants. Oakland is at San Diego in Week 10.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss was held without a catch during the Raiders’ 38-24 loss to Denver in Week 9. Boss was active for the game after being listed as probable with a concussion he sustained in Oakland’s last game. He was not targeted in the passing game by new QB Carson Palmer as fellow TE Brandon Myers recorded one catch for 11 yards on the lone target to the position.
Analysis: Boss failed to haul in a pass for the second time this season as he also went without a catch in Week 3 against Houston. The hulking 27-year-old still has just one touchdown this season -- scored before he sustained the head injury in Week 7 -- but remains a target in the red zone. He still doesn’t produce reliable Fantasy stats and should remain a possible bye-week replacement for Week 10 at San Diego.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss is active for Week 9 against Denver after overcoming a concussion he sustained in his previous game. Boss was a full participant in practice throughout the week and will start against the Broncos.
Analysis: Boss has just one reception or less in each of his past three games, but could improve those numbers with new QB Carson Palmer. Despite the low totals, he is averaging 20 yards per catch (eight receptions, 160 yards). The Broncos are yielding an average of 5.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season. Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE although there is some risk with him recovering from a severe injury.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss is listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 9 against Denver after overcoming a concussion. Boss was a full participant in practice throughout the week and is expected to be in the starting lineup Sunday with new QB Carson Palmer.
Analysis: Boss has just one reception or less in each of his past three games, but could improve those numbers with Palmer under center. Despite the low totals, he is averaging 20 yards per catch (eight receptions, 160 yards). The Broncos are yielding an average of 5.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season. Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE although there is some risk with him recovering from a severe injury.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss was a full participant at practice Wednesday after suffering a concussion during the Raiders' last game. Boss left Week 7 against Kansas City in the fourth quarter with a head injury and did not return. He did not participate in the team's bye week practice.
Analysis: It appears the additional week of rest benefited Boss as he was not limited at practice as the team prepares for Week 9 against Denver. Boss has just one reception or less in each of his past three games and has just one touchdown this year. However, he is averaging 20 yards per catch (eight receptions, 160 yards). The Broncos are yielding an average of 5.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season. Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE although there is some risk in starting him as he recovers from a severe injury.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss left Week 7 against the Chiefs after suffering a concussion. Boss sustained the injury in the fourth quarter after making his lone reception in the 28-0 defeat, which went for 11 yards. He did not return to the contest.
Analysis: Boss took a hard hit on his lone reception and immediately left the contest. The good news is the Raiders have a bye in Week 8, so he will have some extra time to recover. However, Boss will have to pass the NFL's concussion protocol before he can be cleared to play again, so Fantasy owners should continue and monitor his status moving forward. Still, Boss has just eight catches for 160 yards on the year and should be considered more of a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE, even when healthy. Oakland will host the Broncos in Week 9.
News: Raiders WR Kevin Boss will likely be catching passes from QB Kyle Boller in Week 7 against the Chiefs. The NFL Network reported on Friday that Boller would get the start on Sunday, despite the team's acquisition of Carson Palmer earlier in the week. The Chiefs enter the contest ranked 17th in pass defense, allowing 249.6 yards per contest. Kansas City has surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and allowed an average of 8.6 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Boss has been a complete non-factor in the Raiders' offense thus far, racking up just seven receptions for 149 yards thus far. While the addition of Palmer could help his stock rise a bit, his value will remain unchanged with Boller under center this week. Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE against the Chiefs on Sunday.
News: The Raiders traded for QB Carson Palmer from the Bengals on Tuesday, which means TE Kevin Boss will get a new passer to help replace the injured Jason Campbell (collarbone). Palmer should help Boss going forward since he's a proven passer, and Boss will be the best TE Palmer has ever played with. He had Jermaine Gresham in 2010, but that was Gresham's rookie season. Palmer is expected to start in Week 7 against Kansas City. The Chiefs are ranked 17th in pass defense and have allowed an average of 26.6 Fantasy points this season.
Analysis: We like this move for Boss, and he could be a TE to add going forward. Boss has been inconsistent with his play so far this season, but the addition of Palmer should help his Fantasy value. For Week 7, consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE against the Chiefs.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss only made one catch in the Week 6 win over the Browns. It may have been the catch of the game, however. Punter Shane Lechler tossed a 35-yard touchdown pass Boss' way in the third quarter on a fake field goal attempt. Boss did not catch a pass from an actual quarterback in the game.
Analysis: Boss may have picked up his first touchdown reception of the season in the Week 6 win, but the quarterback for that pass was the punter on a fake field goal attempt. Oakland quarterbacks have still been unable to find Boss consistently as he didn't catch a single pass in the Week 6 game outside of that touchdown from Lechler. Boss has been an underwhelming Fantasy option this season and is not someone to be starting outside of the most dire circumstances for Week 7 against Kansas City.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss is looking for a better performance in Week 6 against Cleveland. Boss is coming off a Week 5 at Houston in which he did not make a catch and was not even targeted by QB Jason Campbell. That was on the heels of his best game of the season as he had four catches for 78 yards in Week 4 against the Patriots. Boss has six catches for 114 yards on the season and has yet to score. Boss has only played one career game against the Browns back in 2008. He had one catch for 24 yards in that game.
Analysis: Boss has yet to really establish himself with Campbell as a viable go-to target within the offense. Coming off a game in which he wasn't even targeted, it is hard to believe he's going to be able to bounce back against the Browns, despite Cleveland allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. Both Jared Cook and Craig Stevens scored for Tennessee in Week 4, and a tight end has caught a touchdown pass in three of the four games the Browns have played this year entering Week 6. That said, we don't expect much from Boss. Consider him a bye-week replacement at best as a No. 2 Fantasy TE for the game.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss did not catch a pass in Week 5 against the Texans. He was not targeted in the game.
Analysis: Coming off a 78-yard effort against the Patriots, Boss did not have a single pass thrown his way in Houston. He has not yet carved out a niche in the team's offense and remains a very low-end option in Fantasy. Ignore him in most formats for his Week 6 matchup against the Browns.
News: Coming off a 78-yard effort against the Patriots, TE Kevin Boss will be up against a Texans defense that has been tough against opposing tight ends this season. Through four weeks, Houston has allowed an average of 5.5 Fantasy points (in standard CBSSports.com formats) to opposing tight ends, good for fourth fewest in the league.
Analysis: The Texans allowed 100 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 against Saints TE Jimmy Graham. Outside of that, however, they have allowed a combined eight catches for 60 yards against TEs of the Colts, Dolphins and Steelers. Boss remains a very low-end Fantasy option at TE. While he could be of use during the bye weeks, this does not appear to be a very favorable matchup for him. Look elsewhere for replacement options.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss had his best game of the young season in Week 4 against the Patriots. He caught four passes for 78 yards in the 31-19 loss. He was targeted five times by QB Jason Campbell and had a long reception of 23 yards. Boss finished second in receiving on Oakland behind Darrius Heyward-Bey (four catches, 115 yards).
Analysis: Boss showed over the past two seasons with the Giants that he can be a viable Fantasy option and reminded owners of that on Sunday. Campbell could use a reliable option in the passing game so keep an eye on how the two gel going forward. Boss has caught at least five touchdown passes each of the last three seasons but heading into Week 5 against the Texans, continue to view him as more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: With some of the team's wide receivers still nursing injuries, Oakland TE Kevin Boss is looking to improve on his season debut during the Raiders' Week 4 matchup against New England. Boss played his first game of the season last Sunday after missing time with a sprained knee and finished with two receptions for 36 yards -- all in the first half. The 27-year-old is in his first season with Oakland after signing as a free agent.
Analysis: Boss had some success against the Patriots when he was a member of the New York Giants. In two career games, including Super Bowl XLII, Boss averaged 19 yards per catch versus New England (five receptions for 95 yards). He wasn't targeted much last Sunday against the Jets as the Raiders relied on a potent ground game. Fantasy owners should still take a cautious approach with Boss as he works back into game shape and consider him a low-end TE option in deeper formats for Week 4.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss, who missed the first two games of the season with a sprained knee, managed to play all of the Week 3 win over the Jets and woke up on Monday feeling good. "Woke up this morning and was happy my knee wasn’t really sore at all," Boss said. "So I feel really good.” Boss caught two passes for 36 yards and had a huge block on RB Darren McFadden's 70-yard touchdown run against the Jets.
Analysis: Boss was plenty active in his first game of the season and the better news is that he feels good on Monday. He should make an even bigger impact heading into Week 4 against New England. Tight end Scott Chandler scored a touchdown Week 3 against the Patriots for the Bills, but New England has been pretty solid at limiting opposing TEs this season. Fantasy owners should wait for him to develop consistency before adding him to rosters in most formats.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss had two catches for 36 yards in the Raiders' 34-24 win over the Jets in Week 3 on Sunday. Boss, who had a long reception of 28 yards, was targeted two times by QB Jason Campbell during his season debut with Oakland.
Analysis: Boss didn't wait long to make an impact in his first start after missing the first two games with a knee injury. He didn’t start, but on the Raiders opening drive, he caught a 28-yard pass to set Oakland up at the Jets’ 2-yard line. If he stays healthy, Boss could see more targets with several Raiders receivers battling injuries. Fantasy owners should wait for him to develop consistency before adding him to rosters in most formats.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss was active for the first time this season for the team's Week 3 matchup against the Jets on Sunday. Boss, who is in his first season with the Raiders, has been sidelined the first two weeks with a troublesome knee injury.
Analysis: Boss completed a full week of practice for the first time since being injured during the preseason. The 27-year-old could see additional targets Sunday as New York's cornerbacks focus on the Raiders' wide receivers. Still, Boss should be viewed as a low-end option.
News: Tight end Kevin Boss sure has picked the perfect game to make his regular season debut with the Oakland Raiders after sitting out the past two weeks with a knee sprain. With a rare sold-out crowd for the team's home opener -- just the second in the last 16 games at the Coliseum -- and a national television audience, Boss expects the atmosphere to equal anything he experienced while playing with the New York Giants. That it comes against the unbeaten Jets, a team many expect to contend for the AFC title, only makes it better. "When I heard it was sold out, that was exciting," Boss said Friday. "I'm looking forward to experiencing it firsthand, for sure. It's going to be a great atmosphere. It's a big game for us."
Analysis: Boss, the Raiders' most significant offseason acquisition, completed a full week of practice for the first time since being injured in a preseason game against San Francisco on Aug. 20. He was cleared by the team's medical staff and is listed as probable on Oakland's injury report. How much of a factor Boss can be is uncertain -- though it's clear the Raiders need him to get up to speed quickly. Tight ends accounted for more than 25.8 percent of the completions thrown by Oakland quarterbacks in 2010, including a team-leading 60 receptions by Zach Miller. Miller signed with Seattle as a free agent in the offseason, opening the door for Boss to sign with the Raiders. This season, quarterback Jason Campbell has completed only four throws to his tight ends -- all of them to Brandon Myers. Boss has the potential to be a decent Fantasy TE, but consider him a low-end option for Week 3 with a tough matchup on deck.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss (knee) practiced full for the second straight day Thursday, and coach Hue Jackson said he believes he’ll make his regular-season debut Sunday against the Jets. “He’s done some good things,” Jackson said. “He’s healthier. He’s made some plays in practice. … I think he’s ready to go.”
Analysis: With the way the Raiders receiving corps is banged up, they will be glad to get back Boss. QB Jason Campbell was a big fan of throwing to TE Zach Miller in the past, so the potential for Boss to have a good year is there. But he still has low-end Fantasy appeal heading into Week 3 with a tough matchup on the horizon.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss (knee) was able to practice in full Wednesday as Oakland prepares for Week 3 against the Jets. Boss has missed his team's first two games. "Thought I had chance of playing last week and they decided to give me another week of rest. Probably better in long run," Boss said.
Analysis: With the way the Raiders receiving corps is banged up, they will be glad to get back Boss. QB Jason Campbell was a big fan of throwing to TE Zach Miller in the past, so the potential for Boss to have a good year is there. But he still has low-end Fantasy appeal heading into Week 3 with a tough matchup on the horizon.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss (knee) was listed as inactive for Week 2 at Buffalo. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report, dealing with the same injury that kept him out of the season opener.
Analysis: The Raiders had been upbeat about Boss' progress all week, but it seems they want to continue to be cautious with him. Even once Boss is active, he will have very low-end Fantasy appeal until we see how he fits into the Raiders' offense. It's true that Jason Campbell liked to throw to former Raiders TE Zach Miller in the past, but he needs to build that rapport with Boss first before Boss becomes a reliable Fantasy option.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss (knee) remained limited in practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Week 2 at Buffalo. If active, Boss, who missed out on making his official Raiders debut in Week 1, would face a Bills team in Week 2 that allowed the most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends last season. The Bills allowed just four catches for 39 yards to Chiefs tight ends in Week 1, but they gave up 11 touchdowns (most in the NFL) to opposing TEs last season.
Analysis: The Raiders have been upbeat about Boss' progress all week, but it seems they just want to be cautious here and make Boss a game-time decision. Even if Boss is active, he will have very low-end Fantasy appeal until we see how he fits into the Raiders' offense. It's true that Jason Campbell liked to throw to former Raiders TE Zach Miller in the past, but he needs to build that rapport with Boss first before Boss becomes a reliable Fantasy option.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss was limited in practice for the second straight day Thursday after missing over three weeks with a sprained knee, but Hue Jackson said he’s still not sure whether he’ll play Week 2 at Buffalo. “He’s definitely getting closer. I’ll get a better feel for it (Friday)," Jackson said. If healthy, Boss, who missed out on making his official Raiders debut in Week 1, would face a Bills team in Week 2 that allowed the most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends last season. The Bills allowed just four catches for 39 yards to Chiefs tight ends in Week 1, but they gave up 11 touchdowns (most in the NFL) to opposing TEs last season.
Analysis: For Boss, the most important thing is to be healthy enough to play. He'll have to be monitored closely in that regard. If he is capable of suiting up, he'll remain a very risky play for deeper leagues given the fact he may not be 100 percent and the way the Bills defense looked in Week 1 in Kansas City. However, owners looking for a last second replacement off the waiver wire could do worse given what may be a favorable debut matchup for him.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss practiced Wednesday for the first time since spraining his left knee Aug. 20 in an exhibition game against the 49ers. Boss, who had a brace on his injured knee, ran pass routes and took part in drills during the non-padded practice. “(Practice) was good," Boss said. "Next just comes mental hurdle of trusting it’s all right and go out there and be 100 percent. I’m getting real close." Boss, who missed out on making his official Raiders debut in Week 1 due to his lingering knee injury, would face a Bills team in Week 2 that allowed the most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends last season if he is healthy enough to play. The Bills allowed just four catches for 39 yards to Chiefs tight ends in Week 1, but they gave up 11 touchdowns (most in the NFL) to opposing TEs last season.
Analysis: For Boss, the most important thing is to be healthy enough to play. He'll have to be monitored closely in that regard. If he is capable of suiting up, he'll remain a very risky play for deeper leagues given the fact he may not be 100 percent and the way the Bills defense looked in Week 1 in Kansas City. However, owners looking for a last second replacement off the waiver wire could do worse given what may be a favorable debut matchup for him.
News: As expected, Raiders TE Kevin Boss was listed among the inactives for Week 1 against the Broncos. He was ruled out of the game Saturday because of a knee strain he suffered against San Francisco in the preseason on Aug. 20.
Analysis: Boss, who played the past four season with the Giants, appeared to make some progress shortly after getting hurt but hasn’t returned to practice since then. The 27-year-old has tallied 119 receptions for 1,600 yards and 18 touchdowns in his career and could have some value when he's healthy. For Week 1, obviously he should not be utilized in any Fantasy formats.
News: New Oakland TE Kevin Boss did not practice Saturday and will not play in the Raiders' season-opener at Denver on Monday night. Boss was ruled out of the game Saturday because of a knee strain he suffered against San Francisco in the preseason on Aug. 20.
Analysis: Boss, who played the past four season with the Giants, appeared to make some progress shortly after getting hurt but hasn’t returned to practice since then. The 27-year-old has tallied 119 receptions for 1,600 yards and 18 touchdowns in his career and could have some value when he's healthy. For Week 1, obviously he should not be utilized in any Fantasy formats.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss was not able to practice for a third straight day on Friday because of a knee injury. Boss, who suffered the injury during the team's preseason game against San Francisco on Aug. 20, has been all but ruled out for Week 1 against the Broncos, reports CBSSports.com.
Analysis: Boss has been sidelined for quite some time now, so Fantasy owners should be a bit concerned heading into Monday night. The first-year Raider could be poised for a solid season while replacing Zach Miller in the offense, but his health is holding him back. Consider Boss to be a No. 2 Fantasy TE normally, but he is not a recommended option until he is 100 percent.
News: Oakland TE Kevin Boss did not practice for the second straight day Thursday because of an ailing knee. Boss, who suffered the injury during the team's preseason game against San Francisco on Aug. 20, is in his first season with the Raiders after playing with the Giants.
Analysis: With Oakland possessing few big receiving targets, Boss is expected to play an important role for QB Jason Campbell this season -- when healthy. Boss finished with 35 receptions and 531 yards last season. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE when healthy.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss missed practice again Wednesday with a knee injury he suffered Aug. 20 against the 49ers. He hasn’t been ruled out for Monday night’s game against Denver, but he’s running out of time to get back. Boss is still expected to be a primary target for QB Jason Campbell.
Analysis: Boss missed another unofficial practice on Wednesday, but the sessions don't count for them officially until Thursday since they play on Monday night. If he continues to miss into the weekend, Fantasy owners should begin to seek other options at TE -- though Boss is not considered a No. 1 option when healthy. Stay tuned.
News: The San Francisco Chronicle reports that Raiders coach Hue Jackson said Sunday there is a chance TE Kevin Boss (knee) will not be ready for the opener in Week 1 Monday night against Denver. Boss suffered a sprained MCL in the preseason against San Francisco.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Boss' status, and hopefully he will ready for Week 1 against the Broncos. When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 TE in the majority of leagues, and he is not worth drafting in most standard formats.
News: Raiders TE Kevin Boss said on Thursday that he’s making progress in his recovery from a sprained MCL he suffered Aug. 20 against San Francisco and that he plans to be ready for the Sept. 12 opener against Denver. “I’m getting better every day, seeing improvements every day,” said Boss, who has resumed jogging.
Analysis: Boss is still learning the new Raiders offense, and he will have to continue the process from the sideline for now. He is not yet ruled out for the season opener on September 12, but Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation going forward just in case it worsens. Boss has some big shoes to fill in Oakland with Zach Miller gone, but he has the potential to do so with Jason Campbell at the helm. Consider him to be a No. 2 TE on Draft Day, only worth a late-round pick in most leagues.
News: New Oakland TE Kevin Boss was among the team's inactives for Sunday's preseason game against the Saints. He has been out since last week with a knee sprain and coach Hue Jackson said he is considered "week to week."
Analysis: Boss was not really expected to play all along, so the fact that he was held out is not a surprise. There has not been much information on the severity of the injury, though he may be ready to return by Week 1. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Boss' progress, and we like him as a No. 2 TE on Draft Day, only worth a late-round pick in most leagues.
News: New Oakland TE Kevin Boss suffered what was originally considered a minor injury Saturday against the 49ers, but the team re-evaluated the knee issue on Sunday. Coach Hue Jackson told Comcast Sports Net that he has a knee sprain, and is being considered "week to week." Boss signed with the team on Aug. 5.
Analysis: Boss is still learning the new Raiders offense, and he will have to continue the process from the sideline for now. He is not yet ruled out for the season opener on September 12, but Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation going forward just in case it worsens. Boss has some big shoes to fill in Oakland with Zach Miller gone, but he has the potential to do so with Jason Campbell at the helm. Consider him to be a No. 2 TE on Draft Day, only worth a late-round pick in most leagues.
News: New Oakland TE Kevin Boss suffered a “minor strain” to his left knee during Saturday's preseason game against San Francisco, coach Hue Jackson said. Boss said a 49ers defender slammed into his knee with his helmet while tackling him after he caught pass. “It’s nothing serious, that’s for sure,” Boss said, who was limping and had his knee heavily wrapped. “It will take a little time to heal up.”
Analysis: Boss, who spent last season with the Giants, was just starting to get more comfortable in his new offense. The 27-year-old, who is entering his fifth NFL season, registered 35 receptions for 531 yards and five touchdowns last year. He enters a favorable offense as projected starting Raiders QB Jason Campbell likes throwing to tight ends. Fantasy owners should consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE worth a selection in deeper drafts.
News:Kevin Boss signed a four-year deal with the Oakland Raiders on Friday, the team has confirmed. The deal is said to be worth $16 million. Boss caught 35 passes for 531 yards last season for the Giants.
Analysis: Boss enjoyed his best season in 2009 when he caught 42 passes for 567 yards. He has been good for about 5-6 touchdowns over the past three years and while he isn't one of the premiere pass-catching receivers in the league, he is more than just a pass and run blocker. In fact, with the limited receivers the Raiders have in Oakland, QB Jason Campbell might throw more to Boss than Eli Manning ever did. We still don't see Boss as anything more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE, but he might be worth eyeballing early in the season while on waivers.
News: The New York Post reported Wednesday that free agent TE Kevin Boss is visiting the Oakland Raiders, who lost their starting tight end to Seattle in free agency just a day earlier. Boss had a solid campaign in 2010, starting 13 games on the way to 35 receptions good for 531 yards and five touchdowns.
Analysis: Boss isn't a big-play TE who can stretch the field, but he is a reliable pass-catcher with an increased role near the end-zone. He has at least five scores in each of the last three seasons, with less than 43 catches in each campaign. A move to Oakland would make some sense for the Oregon native, but reports have said that the Raiders have less money to play with than the Giants. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation, but Boss figures to start either in Oakland or in New York. He remains a reserve TE in the majority of formats for now.
News: After radio announcer Bob Papa said via NFL Network that Kevin Boss had reached a deal with the Giants, the tight end said that he has not agreed to a new contract. The prevailing thought was that Boss would resume his role as the team's starter and short-range target for QB Eli Manning, but that does not appear to be the case at this time.
Analysis: Boss is coming off of offseason hip surgery and should be OK for the start of the year. More importantly, he should serve Fantasy owners as a one-week replacement Fantasy tight end off waivers -- pretty much no matter where he plays. There are just too many other good tight ends to check out on Draft Day, so leave Boss out of your plans unless you're in a league that starts two tight ends.
News: The New York Daily News reports TE Kevin Boss is anxious to see what happens now that he is an unrestricted free agent. “There’ll be just a lot of waiting for me,” Boss said. “Especially with the tight timeline it’s going to be interesting. I’m excited to see where I’m going to play football next year, but nervous about the unknown. And a little anxious.” Boss, who has played his entire career with the Giants, will test the free-agent market. “For me, my No. 1 priority is to re-sign with New York,” Boss said. “That’s where I want to be. But at the same time I’ve earned this right to be a free agent. I think I owe it to myself and my family to go out and test the market and hopefully ultimately end up back in New York.”
Analysis: Unless the Giants have a Plan B, like turning the TE position over to Travis Beckum or signing a veteran free agent, then bringing back Boss could be a priority. He is coming off offseason hip surgery, but he has been a reliable target for QB Eli Manning when he has been healthy. Unfortunately, Boss is not a pass-catching option like Antonio Gates or Dallas Clark. He is a big target, especially in the red zone, but Boss is lining up to be a No. 2 Fantasy TE on Draft Day.
News: According to Newsday, Giants TE Kevin Boss said he is running full speed now after offseason hip surgery. He has been taking part in offseason workouts with QB Eli Manning with other members of the Giants during the lockout.
Analysis: Boss is a free agent this offseason, but he's expected to return to the Giants. Boss has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy TE, but until he starts to post consistent stats, he should be viewed as a No. 2 option. The Giants have plenty of weapons in the passing game, so Boss will never post overwhelming stats. He should be viewed as a solid No. 2 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick, and he's a great bye-week replacement during the season.
News: Giants QB Eli Manning is running a lockout passing camp, which ended Thursday. Thursday's workout lasted for roughly 90 minutes of agility drills, running and throwing at Hoboken High School in New Jersey. The good thing is TE Kevin Boss, who is coming off hip surgery in January, was able to participate. "If this continues to go on, we might put together a few more workouts and ask the defense to get involved, the offensive line," Boss said. "It depends on how long it goes. For now, it's good to get among the quarterbacks and wide receivers. If this keeps going we might get more guys involved."
Analysis: Boss is a free agent this offseason, but he's expected to return to the Giants. Boss has the potential to be a No. 1 Fantasy TE, but until he starts to post consistent stats, he should be viewed as a No. 2 option. Boss finished 2010 with respectable totals of 35 catches for 531 yards and five touchdowns. He has at least five touchdowns in each of the past three seasons, but he's never reached 45 catches or 600 yards in a single year. The Giants have plenty of weapons in the passing game, so Boss will never post overwhelming stats. He should be viewed as a solid No. 2 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick, and he's a great bye-week replacement during the season.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants TE Kevin Boss got a second-round tender offer on Tuesday. But Boss might not even be a “restricted” free agent when the new CBA is signed. As a veteran of four NFL years, Boss would be “unrestricted” based on the rules in place prior to the 2010 season. The “unrestricted” requirement jumped to six years in the league when the league went into the final year of the CBA. The rules for this offseason will have to be negotiated as part of the next CBA and nobody knows yet what they will be.
Analysis: Boss is coming off hip surgery, but he's expected to be fine for the start of the 2011 season. We expect him to be fine for the start of the 2011 season, but keep an eye on his recovery and where he ends up playing. If he returns to the Giants as expected then Boss would be considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in the majority of leagues in 2011. He's worth a late-round pick in most formats.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss posted on his Twitter page Wednesday that he was having hip surgery. Last week, the Newark Star-Ledger reported that Boss, who is an impending free agent this offseason, will have "a minor scope" on his hip to correct an issue that's been bothering him for a while. Boss finished 2010 with 35 catches for 531 yards and five touchdowns. "Surgery went very well," Boss said. "Makes me excited for next season. I really appreciate all the thoughts and prayers!"
Analysis: Boss should be fine for the start of the 2011 season, but keep an eye on his recovery and where he ends up playing. If he returns to the Giants as expected then Boss would be considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in the majority of leagues in 2011. He's worth a late-round pick in most formats.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports Friday that Giants TE Kevin Boss, who is an impending free agent this offseason, will have "a minor scope" on his hip to correct an issue that's been bothering him for a while. Boss finished 2010 with 35 catches for 531 yards and five touchdowns.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Boss' recovery and where he ends up signing this offseason. If he returns to the Giants as expected then Boss would be considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in the majority of leagues in 2011. He's worth a late-round pick in most formats.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had another quiet game in Week 17 at Washington. Boss had two catches for 29 yards and now has two catches for 29 yards in his past two games after going without a catch in Week 16 at Green Bay. For the season, Boss finished with 35 catches for 531 yards and five touchdowns.
Analysis: Boss played well at times but struggled at others as evidenced by his final two games. Keep an eye on his progress this offseason, but Boss should be considered a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in the majority of leagues in 2011. He's worth a late-round pick in most formats.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who was held without a reception last for the first time all season last week against the Packers, will be looking to get back on track in Week 17 against the Redskins. The Redskins enter Sunday's season finale ranked 32nd in pass defense, allowing 262.9 yards per contest. Washington has surrendered 22 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 7.2 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Boss was shutout for the first time all year last week, which didn't bode well for those owners who started him. Still, he has developed into one of Eli Manning's favorite targets, especially in the red zone. We doubt he will be shutout for a second straight week and can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE against the Redskins.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was held without a reception for the first time this season in New York's 45-17 loss at Green Bay in Week 16 on Sunday. Boss was targeted three times by QB Eli Manning but could not haul in any passes to finish with fewer than three receptions for the eighth time this season.
Analysis: Boss turned in an extremely disappointing game for the Giants -- and the 52 percent of Fantasy owners in CBS leagues who started him. New York's 6-foot-6 tight end, who has evolved into one of Manning's favorite targets this season, entered Week 16 with three touchdowns in his last four games but did not receive any end zone targets Sunday. It's highly doubtful Boss will be shut out for a second straight week against Washington in Week 17. Consider him a viable Fantasy option against the Redskins with a great chance for a rebound.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has been one of New York's most efficient scorers in the second half of the season and he looks to maintain the pace in Week 16. Boss has recorded a touchdown in five of his last seven games -- including two weeks in row -- to become the Giants' third-highest scoring receiver this season (five touchdowns). The fourth-year player is averaging at least 14.0 yards per catch in three of his last four games, including a 24.7 mark in Week 12 against Jacksonville. New York travels to Green Bay in Week 16 on Sunday.
Analysis: With injuries rattling New York's receiving corps, Boss has become one of QB Eli Manning's most reliable targets recently. He has a catch in every game he has played in this season -- he missed Week 2 with an injury -- and is one score away from matching his career high of six touchdowns. Boss and the Giants will battle the NFL's third-ranked pass defense on Sunday yet the Packers have struggled against tight ends this season. Green Bay is allowing 9.0 Fantasy points per game to the position and has allowed a tight end to reach the end zone in four straight games. Consider Boss a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 16.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught just three passes in Week 15 against the Eagles, but managed to find the end zone again. He caught an 8-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to give him a score in five of his last seven games. Boss finished the game with 59 total yards.
Analysis: Boss is a tricky play in Fantasy because he cannot be relied upon for much if he does not score. He has reached five catches just once all season and has had less than 60 yards receiving in four of his last five games. He saw six passes come his way in Week 15 and is still in line for no more than a handful of looks each game even with Steve Smith out, but his ability to find the end zone makes him a worthwhile play in most standard formats for Week 16 in Green Bay.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is ready for his rematch with the Eagles in Week 15 on Sunday. Boss has four touchdowns in his past six games, and he should see a boost in targets and production with WR Steve Smith (knee) out for the season. One of the games where he didn’t score was against the Eagles in Week 11 when he finished with two catches for 22 yards, but Philadelphia has struggled with tight ends all year. The Eagles have allowed nine touchdowns to opposing tight ends, including four in the past five weeks, and five have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Boss also has three touchdowns in his past five games.
Analysis: Boss should be considered a starter in the majority of leagues in Week 15. His matchup with the Eagles, along with the increased opportunity for targets with Smith out, should make him a viable candidate to be productive this week. We consider him a No. 1 option in the majority of formats.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss scored his fourth receiving touchdown of the season in Week 14 against the Vikings. Boss was on the receiving end of a 6-yard strike from Eli Manning late in the second quarter that put the Giants up 14-3. He was targeted nine times in the 21-3 victory and finished with four receptions for 23 yards. Boss averaged 5.8 yards per reception and had a long of 7 yards.
Analysis: After a slow start to the season Boss has really picked up his production of late. He has now scored four touchdowns in his last six games and has racked up 143 receiving yards over that stretch. Boss will look to keep it rolling next Sunday when the Giants host the Eagles in Week 15. He has three touchdowns in six career games against Philadelphia, but had just two receptions for 22 yards in the teams first meeting this season. Consider Boss a low-end Fantasy TE heading into Week 15.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss heads into Week 14 against the Vikings looking for his fourth touchdown in six games. The Vikings are allowing TEs to average 5.5 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for 10th lowest in the NFL. However, the Vikings have allowed five touchdowns to TEs, including three in their last four games.
Analysis: A lot of folks looked at Boss as a Fantasy sleeper for Week 13, but he produced just two catches for 28 yards. It really wasn't his fault as New York used the ground game to beat Washington. It could be a different story in Week 14 since Minnesota is solid against the run. Steve Smith is expected to return from injury this week as well, but he won't be full strength, so Boss will still be needed in the passing game. Consider him a viable Fantasy TE for Week 14. Note: kickoff was shifted from Sunday afternoon to Monday night because of inclement weather in Minneapolis.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss failed to score for just the second time in five games Week 13 against the Redskins. Boss was bottled up for two catches for 28 yards, with his longest gain going for 21 yards. He was targeted three times.
Analysis: Boss has been held to two catches and under 30 yards in two of his last three games. While in Week 11 when he did that against the Eagles it was just good defense. In Week 13, the Giants got out to a huge lead thanks to the rushing game and didn't need to throw the ball. That turned out to be very unfortunate for the 46 percent of Boss owners that started him in Fantasy. It's really been hit or miss this season for Boss. Consider Boss at best a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 14, when New York plays the Vikings.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss aims for his third straight touchdown of 30 or more yards at home in Week 13 against the Redskins. He also aims for his fourth touchdown in five games. Boss has just one touchdown to go along with 11 catches for 195 yards in four regular season games against Washington. The Redskins are allowing TEs to average 6.0 Fantasy points per week, which is 13th lowest in the NFL. The Redskins have allowed just four TEs -- Daniel Fells, Brent Celek, Donald Lee and Brandon Pettigrew -- to score against them this season.
Analysis: Boss has really come to life lately for the Giants. Now that he is healthy he has become a reliable target for QB Eli Manning. It has also helped Boss that the Giants receivers have been banged up. Boss might never have a 100-yard game for New York, but he is a touchdown threat and that makes him a viable play for Fantasy Week 13.
News:Eli Manning threw a 32-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Boss with 3:15 to play and the Giants rallied to beat Jacksonville 24-20 in Week 12. On third-and-10, Manning caught Jacksonville in a blitz and hit Boss on a short pass. The tight end broke a tackle by safety Courtney Greene at the 25 and romped into the end zone. "He saw it," Manning said of Boss. "He went up the field looking for the ball and I got it to him." Boss made up for a holding penalty in the first half that cost the Giants a touchdown. Boss, who was targeted a team-high eight times, finished with three catches for 74 yards. He now has a touchdown in three of four games.
Analysis: We figured Manning would lean on Boss in Week 12 with Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks sidelined by injuries and Manning did just that. It's just too bad he couldn't complete more passes to Boss. But 74 yards and a score is still good for Fantasy purposes. Boss was terrible to begin the season, but a lot of that had to do with injuries. He is now healthy and gaining the trust of his QB again. Consider starting Boss in Week 13, when the Giants play the Redskins.
News: After failing to extend his touchdown streak to three games in Week 11, Giants TE Kevin Boss looks to hit pay dirt in Week 12 against the Jaguars. Tight ends have had success against Jacksonville this season. TEs are averaging 7.8 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for eighth highest in the NFL. The Jaguars have allowed TEs to score five times in 10 games.
Analysis: Boss could potentially have his best game of the season in Week 12 against the Jaguars. The Giants are down WRs Steve Smith and Hakeem Nicks to injuries, leaving Mario Manningham as the only big-time threat on the outside. QB Eli Manning has started to lean on Boss again, especially in the red zone, and we figure he will need the Western Oregon product in Week 12. Consider starting Boss in Fantasy leagues this week.
News: After finding the end zone in each of the last two games, Giants TE Kevin Boss failed to make it three straight in the Week 11 loss to the Eagles. He finished the night with just two catches for 22 yards on four targets from QB Eli Manning, one in the red zone. Boss, who came into the game with a back issue, showed no signs of limitation in the game.
Analysis: Boss is just under the pace he was on last year at this point, so the lack of production in more games than not is a ongoing concern. In Week 12, he will have a chance to get back on track against the Jaguars, who allows the sixth-most Fantasy points in the NFL to TEs. Continue to view Boss as a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into that matchup.
News: Despite a back issue, Giants TE Kevin Boss is active for the Week 11 game against the Eagles on Sunday night. He was listed as probable on the injury report heading into the matchup. Boss, who has a touchdown in two straight games, has 17 catches for 214 yards and a career-high three touchdowns in five career games against the Eagles.
Analysis: Boss said his back was tender after Sunday's loss to Dallas, but X-rays came back clean. Philadelphia has struggled to cover TEs in 2010, allowing TEs to average 9.3 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for third highest in the NFL. They have allowed TEs to total five touchdowns and three 100-yard games. Consider starting him in Fantasy because of the favorable matchup and recent hot streak he is on.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (back) returned to practice Friday and is listed as probable for New York's Week 11 game at Philadelphia. Boss, who has a touchdown in two straight games, has 17 catches for 214 yards and a career-high three touchdowns in five career games against the Eagles.
Analysis: Boss said his back was tender after Sunday's loss to Dallas, but X-rays came back clean. Hopefully he is good to go on Sunday, as Philadelphia has struggled to cover TEs in 2010. Philadelphia is allowing TEs to average 9.3 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for third highest in the NFL. They have allowed TEs to total five touchdowns and three 100-yard games. If Boss is healthy for Week 11, then consider starting him in Fantasy because of the favorable matchup and recent hot streak he is on.
News: A day after being left off of the injury report, Giants TE Kevin Boss did not practice Thursday because of a back injury. The Giants are set to play the Eagles in Week 11. Boss, who has a touchdown in two straight games, has 17 catches for 214 yards and a career-high three touchdowns in five career games against the Eagles.
Analysis: Boss said his back was tender after Sunday's loss to Dallas, but X-rays came back clean. Hopefully, Thursday was just a rest day and not a setback, particularly since Philadelphia has struggled to cover TEs in 2010. Philadelphia is allowing TEs to average 9.3 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for third highest in the NFL. They have allowed TEs to total five touchdowns and three 100-yard games. If Boss is healthy for Week 11, then consider starting him in Fantasy because of the favorable matchup and recent hot streak he is on.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss said his back is feeling "tender," but his X-rays were good following his team's loss to the Cowboys in Week 10. Boss didn't sound overly concerned about the injury the day after catching five passes for 81 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Boss stepped up in place of Steve Smith, who didn't play in Week 10 and might be out again in Week 11. If you're looking for a sleeper tight end, perhaps Boss is a good option for you to try. Assuming he practices by Friday, consider him a possible starter for your Fantasy team if you're not getting the production you'd like from your tight end.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught a 19 yard pass in the fourth quarter on Sunday and took a heck of a hit by a few Cowboys' defenders. He didn't get enough for the first down and was slow getting up but would return to the huddle. After the game he had X-rays done on his lower back and tailbone. Boss was targeted seven times, catching five passes for 81 yards and scoring a touchdown. He could have had two scores on the day, but he had a pass hit him in the facemask with two minutes left in the first half, but couldn't hold on. Dallas would beat New York, 33-20.
Analysis: Boss had seven catches against Dallas over his last five games, so he definitely improved in Week 10. He also scored for the second straight week and now has two touchdowns on the season. He'll try for three in a row in Week 11 as the Giants go to Philly to face the Eagles. Philly entered Week 10 allowing 214.9 passing yards per contest, but that doesn't mean Fantasy owners should consider Boss anything but a No. 2 TE option.
News: New York TE Kevin Boss has a trend when he plays the Dallas Cowboys -- he makes just one catch. Over the last five meeting between the two teams, Boss has seven catches but one apiece in the last four. He's totaled 99 yards and a touchdown over those games -- the score coming back in Nov. 2008. Dallas is allowing 214.4 passing yards per contest this season, but Boss had just 23 yards in the first meeting this season.
Analysis: Boss also scored his first touchdown of the season in Week 9 against Seattle, so he might have some momentum going. Unfortunately that seems unlikely and that this tight end has not had a good season. He has 14 catches for 215 yards for the Giants as he's taken a backseat to all of the receivers this season. He's doing more blocking than scoring these days, which makes him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE at best for Week 10.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was able to find the end zone for the first time this season in Week 9 against the Seahawks. Boss was on the receiving end of a Eli Manning 5-yard touchdown strike late in the second quarter that put New York up 35-0. He finished with two receptions for 15 yards in the 41-7 win, but fumbled on his first reception. However, Seattle was unable to capitalize on the turnover.
Analysis: Boss was finally able to find the end zone in Week 9, but still had just two catches. With the Giants' 1-2-3 punch of Hakeem Nicks, Steve Smith and Mario Manningham at receiver and New York's two-headed monster at tailback of Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs , Boss is often on the outside looking in from a Fantasy perspective. He has turned into more of a blocking back this season and we do not recommend starting him in Week 10 against the Cowboys.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has more than three receptions just once in six games this season. He is going to find it difficult to reach that plateau in Week 9 against the Seahawks. Seattle has allowed just two tight ends -- Vernon Davis and Antonio Gates -- to haul in more than three catches in a game. Seattle also hasn't allowed a tight end to score a touchdown or rack up more than 35 yards since Week 3. Seattle is allowing opposing TEs to average 4.9 Fantasy points per week, which is seventh lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Boss is having arguably his worst season since his rookie campaign in 2007, when he was a backup to Jeremy Shockey. You can blame all of Boss' recent injury woes since last season all you want, but it has more to do with the fact the Giants haven't had a need to throw his way. Boss has been used more for blocking purposes in 2010. He is no longer a very good play in Fantasy and definitely not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 9 with a tough matchup.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was a non-factor in Week 7 against the Cowboys. Boss had just one reception for 23 yards in the 41-35 victory. It was his only target of the game. He has been held to two or fewer catches in four of his six games so far.
Analysis: Boss has been pretty ineffective so far this season as the Giants are relying heavily on their receivers and running backs for the bulk of the scoring. Boss does not have a touchdown on the season and has only manged just one game with more than 50 receiving yards. The Giants have a bye in Week 8 before heading out west to face the Seahawks in Week 9. It's tough to justify starting Boss at this point.
News: Not since Chris Cooley posted 80 yards in Week 1 has a tight end managed more than 39 receiving yards against the Cowboys. Giants TE Kevin Boss looks to end that trend in Week 7. Although, history is not on his side. Boss has just seven catches for 94 yards and one touchdown in six career games against Dallas. Boss managed just two catches for 23 yards in two games against Dallas last season.
Analysis: Boss has been pretty ineffective for New York in 2010. He has yet to score a touchdown and has managed just one game with more than 50 receiving yards. QB Eli Manning is working better with his receivers this season, and it hasn't helped Boss that fellows TEs Bear Pascoe and Travis Beckum have found a home in the Giants' offense. Boss is a tough play in Fantasy with the numbers he has posted thus far.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught two for 27 yards in Week 6 against the Lions. He was targeted three times. Boss has been held to two or fewer catches in three of his five games so far.
Analysis: Boss remains his team's primary pass option at tight end, but he is not featured enough in the offense to be considered a viable Fantasy option in most leagues. He gets enough looks to be considered a viable No. 2 TE in deeper leagues, but he should be used mostly just as an injury or bye-week replacement option in Week 7 at Dallas.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss will be up against a favorable pass defense in Week 6 against Detroit. However, they haven't been very favorable to opposing tight ends. The Lions enter play ranked 24th in the NFL against the pass, but having allowed the fifth fewest Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. They have allowed just one touchdown pass to an opposing tight end this season.
Analysis: The best performance by a tight end this season against the Lions was a four-catch, 36-yard effort with a score by Packers TE Jermichael Finely in Week 4. Otherwise, no tight end has cracked even four points against them in a standard-scoring league. Boss is a decent pass-catching tight end, but is not targeted heavily in the offense. That makes him an unlikely canidate to go against this trend. Avoid activating Boss where possible this week.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught four passes for 40 yards in Week 5 at Houston. He was targeted six times in the game, good for third on the team in that category. For Boss, the four catches marked a season best.
Analysis: Boss entered play in Week 5 with just five catches for the season. He is the team's primary receiver at the tight end position, but is not a big play maker and usually doesn't see more than a handful of targets per game. He does get enough looks to be considered a viable replacement option off the waiver wire, but we wouldn't recommend him as a starter if it can be avoided. The Giants will host the Lions in Week 6.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is not having a good time executing plays in 2010. Through three games, Boss has caught just 38.4 percent of his targets (5 for 13). He also has no touchdowns. Boss looks to perhaps have a breakout performance in Week 5 against the Texans. Houston is allowing TEs to average 14.5 Fantasy points per week, which is the highest total in the NFL. TEs have racked up 36 catches for 410 yards and three touchdowns against Houston.
Analysis: Five TEs -- Dallas Clark, Chris Cooley, Fred Davis, Jason Witten and Zach Miller -- all have managed at least 50 receiving yards against Houston this season. It seems highly likely that Boss puts on a good show in Week 5. However, one element all the previous TEs didn't have to deal with was LB Brian Cushing, who makes his debut in Week 5 coming off a suspension. Also, the Giants have a lot of talented WRs, so Boss has become more important as a blocker than receiver for New York. He is still a nice target in the red zone, but Boss is not a high-end Fantasy TE. Even with the favorable matchup, he projects more as a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 5.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was a non-factor in Week 4 against the Bears. Boss was targeted five times, but only recorded one catch for 11 yards in the 17-3 victory. He did not score in the contest.
Analysis: Boss, who suffered a concussion earlier in the season, has five receptions for 110 yards on the season and has yet to score this season. He proved o be a decent pass-catching tight end the past two seasons for the Giants, but has yet to get going this season. However, he does have a favorable matchup in Week 5 against the Texans. Houston has struggled to defend the pass this season and allowed TE Zach Miller to rack up a career-high 11 catches in Week 4. Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 5.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has nine career touchdowns at home, but he has failed to score in his last three home contests. He looks to end that streak in Week 4 against the Bears. Chicago has not allowed a touchdown to a tight end in 2010, but have given up 28 catches for 260 yards to TEs. Jermichael Finley posted 115 yards against Chicago in Week 3 and four TEs have at least 43 receiving yards against the Bears.
Analysis: Boss bounced back from a minor concussion that kept him out a game with 88 yards in Week 3 against the Titans. QB Eli Manning does like to look Boss' way, especially in the red zone, so it's vital he stays healthy. Boss is more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 4.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had a productive return to action in Week 3 against the Titans. He totaled 88 yards on three catches, including a 54-yard catch. Boss was targeted seven times by QB Eli Manning, including once on a pass in the end zone that resulted in an interception.
Analysis: Boss was hurt on the very first offensive drive of the season for the Giants in Week 1 against the Panthers when he suffered a concussion. He was held out in Week 2, but was clearly not suffering from any after effects in Week 3. He took advantages of some holes in the middle of the Tennessee defense and managed to pick up some nice chunks of yardage on three catches. The Titans made some adjustments in the second half, however, and managed to have more defenders around him leading to four incompletions on passes thrown his way. Boss will have some appeal as a No.2 TE or as as injury or bye-week replacement in coming games, but is usually too inconsistent to trust as a regular play in Fantasy. The Giants will take on the Bears at home in Week 4.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (concussion) was cleared to play in Week 3 against Tennessee. He had been listed as probable and was expected to play. Boss was hurt on the first first offensive drive of the season and, therefore, has just one catch for 11 yards through the first two weeks of the season.
Analysis: Boss has proven to be a decent pass-catching tight end the past two seasons for the Giants and is expected to have some Fantasy appeal this season, although mostly in larger formats and during the bye weeks when replacement options are required. We don't recommend activating him for Week 3 against the Titans
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss returned to practice this week and is expected to play in Week 3 against the Titans after missing Week 2 with a concussion. He will face a Titans defense that has allowed just seven catches for 51 yards combined to opposing tight ends in the first two weeks of the season.
Analysis: Boss was hurt on the first first offensive drive of the season and, therefore, has just one catch for 11 yards through the first two weeks of the season. But Boss has proven to be a decent pass-catching tight end the past two seasons for the Giants and is expected to have some Fantasy appeal this season, although mostly in larger formats and during the bye weeks when replacement options are required. We don't recommend activating him for Week 3 against the Titans
News: As expected, Giants TE Kevin Boss (concussion) was back at practice Wednesday. He hasn't experienced any headaches recently and hopes to play in Week 3 against the Titans.
Analysis: Boss, a victim of multiple career concussions, has shown improvement with his symptoms, giving him a chance of returning Week 3 against the Titans. However, he's just a peripheral option in the Giants offense and a No. 2 TE in Fantasy.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (concussion) said Monday that he hasn't experienced any headaches recently and will begin practicing on a limited basis Wednesday. He hopes to play in Week 3 against the Titans. Boss was inactive for Week 2 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Boss has had three concussions since December 2008, so you can bet the Giants won't take any chances with him. The NFL has strict guidelines and tests he'll have to clear before he can play again. Boss has shown improvement with his symptoms, giving him a chance of returning Week 3 against the Titans, but he's just a peripheral option in the Giants offense and a No. 2 TE in Fantasy.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who sustained a concussion in the season opener, said on Monday that he hopes to practice this week. Boss was inactive for Week 2 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Boss has had three concussions since December 2008, so you can bet the Giants won't take any chances with him. The NFL has strict guidelines and tests he'll have to clear before he can play again. Boss has shown improvement with his symptoms, giving him a chance of returning Week 3 against the Titans, but he's just a peripheral option in the Giants offense and a No. 2 TE in Fantasy.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who was declared out earlier in the week after suffering a concussion in Week 1, was inactive as expected Week 2 at Indianapolis. Travis Beckum started in his place.
Analysis: Boss has had three concussions since December 2008, so you can bet the Giants won't take any chances with him. He has shown improvement with his symptoms, giving him a chance of returning Week 3 against the Titans, but he's just a peripheral option in the Giants offense and a No. 2 TE in Fantasy.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (concussion) won't play Week 2 against the Colts, but his symptoms are improving. "I believe the headaches are gone," coach Tom Coughlin said. "I don't think that there are any real symptoms right now." Travis Beckum is going to start for Boss, who was injured in Week 1 against the Panthers.
Analysis: Boss has had three concussions since December 2008, so the Giants are just playing it safe with him. Although, he has yet to play a full NFL season and is beginning to develop the label of being a fragile player. However, he is a good red zone target for QB Eli Manning when healthy, so continue to stash Boss as a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: New York Giants tight end Kevin Boss is going to miss Week 2 against the Indianapolis Colts with a concussion. While he would not comment on the severity of the concussion, coach Tom Coughlin ruled Boss out on Wednesday. "I think they are just trying to be conservative about it," said Boss, who has had three concussions since December 2008. "They don't want to have one of those things where I get concussed in back to back weeks and then I am stuck missing a big chunk of time." Boss was hurt on the Giants' opening drive against Carolina in Week 1 when Panthers safety Sherrod Martin hit him in the back on the neck. Boss was on the ground after failing to catch a pass when the hit happened. Travis Beckum will start for Boss.
Analysis: Boss, who was taken off the field on a cart Sunday, said this concussion dazed him a little more than his previous ones, making it harder for him to get back to his feet this time. Boss said he has had some headaches, but nothing where he had to go to head athletic trainer Ronnie Barnes for help. Boss has a history of concussions, so the Giants will be extra careful with their starting tight end over the next few weeks, even though Boss thinks he'll be able to play in Week 3. When healthy, Boss is just a low-end Fantasy TE in deeper leagues.
News: Giants starting tight end Kevin Boss suffered his third concussion since late in 2008 season in the opener against Carolina on Sunday. His status for Sunday night's game at Indianapolis is uncertain. He finished the game with one catch for 11 yards. Travis Beckum is expected to replace him. "He is going to have to go through all the tests and we'll wait and see what is said about it," head coach Tom Coughlin said of Boss.
Analysis: Boss' history of concussions makes his short-term future iffy. Until he passes a battery of head exams, he won't be allowed back with the team. At this point it's safe to consider him off-limits for Week 2, though if we hear anything different we'll be sure to pass it along.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was diagnosed with a concussion and a neck injury following a hit to the back of the helmet in the first quarter of Sunday's game against Carolina. He left the game in the first quarter after taking a hit on the very first drive of the game. He finished the game with one catch for 11 yards. Boss was seen looking groggy on the field before being carted off to the locker room.
Analysis: The NFL has strict guidelines when it comes to concussions, so Fantasy owners will have to closely monitor his progress going forward. He will be on the injury report heading into Week 2 against the Colts in Indianapolis. When healthy, we consider Boss as a No. 2 tight end. He will mainly be useful in standard formats once the bye weeks come into play or if you are dealing with an injury or poor matchup with your starting tight end. Travis Beckum will move up the depth chart while Boss is sidelined.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was carted to the locker room after suffering an apparent head injury on the team's first drive of the regular season. He was hit on the back of the helmet on a pass play that came in his direction. He received medical attention before being taken to the locker room on a cart.
Analysis: Boss looked a bit groggy as he was taken to the locker room and we wouldn't be surprised if he is dealing with a concussion. Fantasy owners will have to pay close attention to his progress. The NFL has strict guidelines about head injuries. When healthy, Boss is backup TE in most formats, but he has emerged as a reliable pass-catching tight end for Eli Manning. He caught a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards and five touchdowns in 2009.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss will be up against a tough pass defense in Week 1 at home against the Carolina Panthers. They finished fourth in the NFL in pass defense last season, allowing just 191 yards against per game. Boss did manage decent numbers against them in their Week 16 meeting a year ago, however, finishing with five catches for 49 yards.
Analysis: Those numbers were right around what Boss averaged per game last season, but do keep in mind that they came in a 41-9 blowout loss in which the Giants went pass heavy early after falling behind. Boss had ankle surgery in the offseason and is coming off a quiet preseason, but he has emerged as a reliable pass-catching tight end for Eli Manning. He caught a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards and five touchdowns in 2009 and makes for a decent No. 2 tight end. We wouldn't activate him unless you need to start that many TEs in your league for Week 1 or if you area dealing with an injury.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss didn't have a preseason catch before Thursday night's finale against the Patriots. "I felt like I wasn't real involved in the first couple preseason games, so I had to get out there and catch a couple of balls," he said. Boss was targeted three times and finished with two catches for 35 yards and a touchdown. QB Eli Manning's touchdown covered 13 yards to Boss capping a nine-play, 86-yard drive after the opening kickoff.
Analysis: Boss has been quiet this preseason, so his performance on Thursday is reassuring. He had ankle surgery in the offseason and is coming off a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards and five touchdowns in 2009. He'll likely be Manning's redzone target this season, but see limited passes with some many other options in the receiving corps. Boss should be viewed as a No. 2 Fantasy TE option.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss went without a catch in Saturday's preseason game at Baltimore. Boss had only one pass thrown in his direction.
Analysis: Boss did not have a good offseason after having ankle surgery and then a quiet preseason. We still expect him to play well in 2010, but he should only be considered a No. 2 Fantasy option. The Giants are loaded at WR with Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham, and Boss' best value will be as a redzone target for QB Eli Manning. Boss totaled a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards and five touchdowns in 2009 and has 11 TDs over his last two seasons.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, recovering from offseason ankle surgery, is finally beginning to feel like his old self. He experienced no setbacks after playing in Saturday's loss to the Steelers. “I was telling (tight ends coach Michael) Pope that’s the best I’ve felt since before I hurt my ankle last season,” Boss told the Newark Star-Ledger. “It’s definitely getting better and coming along.” He hopes to see even more playing time this Saturday against the Ravens. "The Baltimore game I hope I can play as long as the starters play, three quarters,” he said, “and get the opportunity to make some plays.”
Analysis: Boss hauled in 42 receptions for 567 yards and five touchdowns last season. While he's a nice player, he's simply not a huge threat on offense, leaving him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss shook off hamstring and ankle injuries to play in Saturday's preseason loss to the Steelers. He did not make a catch.
Analysis: Boss totaled a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards and five touchdowns in 2009 and has 11 TDs over his last two seasons. Unfortunately for Fantasy owners, Boss does his best work blocking rather than catching passes, so remains just a No. 2 Fantasy TE worth drafting late in deeper leagues.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (hamstring, ankle) returned to practice Wednesday afternoon. Boss, who had offseason ankle surgery, missed Monday's preseason opener against the Jets, but he could return for Saturday's second preseason game against the Steelers.
Analysis: Boss totaled a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards in 2009. He also had five touchdown catches and has totaled 11 TDs in his last two seasons. Boss has been a real find for the Giants out of Western Oregon. Boss is a good blocking and catching tight end for New York, but he projects more as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE on Draft Day. He's only worth drafting with a late-round pick in 2010.
News: As expected, Giants TE Kevin Boss (hamstring, ankle) was ruled inactive for Monday's preseason opener against the Jets. Boss, who had offseason ankle surgery, opened training camp with the Giants before being slowed by the injuries.
Analysis: Boss said he is getting frustrated by all the injuries and who can blame him? The more he gets hurt, the more his Fantasy value also suffers. Boss can be a real good red-zone option for QB Eli Manning, but these mounting injury problems are knocking him down the Fantasy rankings. Consider Boss more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE, but he certainly can pass as a low-end No. 1 option, when healthy and going well.
News: Giants Coach Tom Coughlin said Saturday that tight end Kevin Boss will not play in Monday's preseason opener against the Jets. Boss has been hampered by hamstring and ankle issues. In fact, Boss has said that compensating for an ankle injury may have led to his injuring his hamstring.
Analysis: His are considered minor, but minor injuries are enough to keep starters out of preseason games. The Giants have very little depth at tight end and Boss will remain the team's primary option at the position this fall once he gets healthy. We think he's no better than a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy TE, and with other tight ends out there on Draft Day, he's not hard to pass on until the late rounds.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is frustrated by his injuries and said that he may have aggravated his hamstring while compensating for his ankle. The team has been holding him out of practice for about a week. He didn't know when he could return but admitted that he put a little pressure on the training staff to let him do so.
Analysis: Boss' nagging injuries are a factor in evaluating his Fantasy value as he's played through them before, limiting his stats, and has never played a 16-game season. We think he's no better than a borderline No. 1/No. 2 Fantasy TE in the first place, and with other tight ends out there on Draft Day, he's not hard to pass on until the late rounds.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has been dealing with an ankle injury, but that's not his only problem. "I don't know if he'll make it this afternoon," coach Tom Coughlin said Monday. "I think it's more hamstring now."
Analysis: Boss has been suffering from his ankle issue for some time and now it appears he's favoring his hamstring as well. He should be able to play through these issues if the situation demanded it however and it shouldn't change his Fantasy status for the moment. Boss totaled a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards in 2009. He also had five touchdown catches and has totaled 11 TDs in his last two seasons. He has the ability to play like a No. 1 option at this position but is viewed as a No. 2 right now.
News: Despite his injured ankle, TE Kevin Boss didn't look to be in any pain on the first day of training camp on Sunday. He went through drills after passing a conditioning test. "I didn’t want to be the guy that stands on the sidelines while my teammates are on the field," Boss told the New York Daily News. Boss added that his ankle "feels good" after having surgery in late May.
Analysis: Boss totaled a career-high 42 catches for 567 yards in 2009. He also had five touchdown catches and has totaled 11 TDs in his last two seasons. Boss has been a real find for the Giants out of Western Oregon. Boss is a good blocking and catching tight end for New York, but he projects more as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE on Draft Day.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is doing well following late-May ankle surgery and expects to be back with the team in short order. He even expects to participate fully in this year's training camp. "I'm hoping to start running around pretty soon here," he added.
Analysis: A healthy Boss at training camp would only help his draft stock. Boss should still be viewed as a serviceable low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick in drafts, but you might want to consider drafting another low-end No. 1 TE and platooning him with Boss to start the season until one proves to be a worthy starter on a weekly basis.
News: Giants starting TE Kevin Boss is going to have surgery next week on his ankle. The arthroscopic procedure should sideline him for four to six weeks, meaning he should be ready for training camp in late July. The surgery, which will remove bone spurs and other loose particles, should improve the status of his ankle, which troubled him last season when he sprained it against the Chiefs in Week 4. "The whole season I just kept having little tweaks here and there that made for kind of a long season with my ankle," Boss told the Newark Star-Ledger. "Better (to have surgery) now than sometime during the season."
Analysis: Boss should still be viewed as a serviceable low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick in drafts, but you might want to consider drafting another low-end No. 1 TE and platooning him with Boss to start the season until one proves to be a worthy starter on a weekly basis.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not have a catch in Week 17 at Minnesota. He was targeted three times in the game. It was his first game without a catch all season.
Analysis: Boss was not a great Fantasy option this season, but he was a useful No. 2 tight end and occasional stopgap. He doesn't have big play ability, but does get a good number of looks from QB Eli Manning and could become more of a safety valve for him over the years. He'll be a worthy late-round tight end selection in all formats for the upcoming Fantasy season.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught five passes for 49 yards in Week 16 against Carolina. He was targeted eight times in the game.
Analysis: Giants QB Eli Manning distributed his pass attempts evenly to four different receivers with Steve Smith leading the team in targets at nine and Mario Manningham, Hakeem Nicks and Boss each getting eight looks. Boss has been at or around 50 yards in his last three games and should be expected to be around that amount in Week 17 at Minnesota.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who had a season-high seven catches for 70 yards last week, had three catches for 57 yards Week 15 at Washington, topping 50 receiving yards for only the fifth time this season. His 127 yards over his last two games is his most for any two-game stretch this season.
Analysis: Boss is becoming a more consistent part of the passing game, but he's more the kind of tight end who'll keep you from falling behind in Fantasy than the kind who'll put you ahead. He's worth starting if you don't have any high-end options at the position, but he probably won't make an impact unless he scores a touchdown. The Giants host the Panthers in Week 16.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had seven catches for 70 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Eagles. He scored his fifth touchdown of the season in this game.
Analysis: Boss continues to play well when he has a favorable matchup, which he had against the Eagles. The matchup isn't as favorable against Washington in Week 15, but Boss is still worthy of consideration as a low-end No. 1 option based on his overall play this year. Boss had three catches for 62 yards in Week 1 against the Redskins.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had two touches in Week 13 against Dallas. He caught one pass for 10 yards and rushed once for 16 yards.
Analysis: Boss was targeted just three times in the game. He has just three catches combined over his last two games and remains a very low-end starting option for Week 14 against Philadelphia. He had 70 yards on three catches in Week 8 against the Eagles.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not score a touchdown or do much of anything offensively in a Week 12 loss to the Broncos on Thanksgiving. Boss made just two receptions in the game, gaining a total of 22 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 22 yards.
Analysis: Boss had been gaining Fantasy steam heading into Week 12 but came back down to earth against a good Denver pass defense. He is typically one of QB Eli Manning’s more-favored targets and should still be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 13 against Dallas. In Week 2 against the Cowboys, Boss had just one reception for 13 yards.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss faces the tough Denver pass defense in Week 12 on Thanksgiving night. That shouldn't be a problem for Boss, who has caught four touchdown passes in his last three games for the G-men. Last week against Atlanta, Boss went for 76 yards and two scores on five catches. Denver ranks No. 3 in the NFL against the pass and is allowing just one touchdown per game.
Analysis: Boss continues to be a huge target for QB Eli Manning and if any Giants' receiver is going to have a big Thanksgiving it will be him. Treat Boss as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught two touchdown passes in Week 11 against Atlanta. He caught five passes for 76 yards in the game. He was targeted eight times.
Analysis: Boss was a big target for QB Eli Manning up the middle all afternoon and it led to his biggest game of the season. He is on a roll as far as touchdowns go, with scores in three straight games. Consider him a viable starting option for Week 12 at Denver on Thanksgiving night, though his numbers usually aren't as productive without the touchdowns. He has just two games with more than three catches this season and the 76 yards Sunday were the most he has had all season.
News: The touchdowns are beginning to roll in for Giants TE Kevin Boss. Coming off a bye, the Giants face Atlanta at home in Week 11 and the Falcons own a porous pass defense. Boss has five catches for 87 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games this season. Boss played at Atlanta in 2007 but did not make a catch in the game.
Analysis: Boss has definitely become a bigger weapon of late for the Giants and we like him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 11 against the Falcons.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss totaled two catches for 17 yards during a Week 9 loss to the Chargers. Boss also gave the Giants a 17-14 lead when he hauled in a 8-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Boss has a touchdown in two straight games after failing to score in his first seven contests.
Analysis: Boss was knocked out of the game in Week 9 for a few plays after getting his bell rung in the second quarter. But he returned and the touchdown pretty much did away with any speculation about lingering effects. The Giants are on a bye in Week 10, so Boss gets some time to rest up. Consider him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 11 against the Falcons.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (ankle), RB Ahmad Bradshaw (ankle, foot), QB Eli Manning (foot) and WR Mario Manningham (shoulder) are all active for Week 9 vs. San Diego. All four players were probable on the injury report.
Analysis: None of these Giants players were in danger of missing Week 9. Manning is a No. 2 Fantasy QB. Bradshaw is a No, 3 Fantasy RB or flex option. Boss is a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. Manningham is at best a No. 3 Fantasy WR or flex option.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (ankle) went through limited practice reps all week as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. San Diego. Boss arguably had his best game of the season in a Week 8 loss to the Eagles, as he posted three catches for 70 yards and one touchdown -- his first of the season. He is considered probable for Week 9.
Analysis: Boss did turn his ankle late in the game against Philly, but it shouldn't keep him out for Week 9. Boss has been a disappointing Fantasy option in 2009 after being a touchdown vulture last season. The Giants have been focused on developing their receivers and that has taken away a lot of Boss' targets. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 9.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught three passes for 70 yards in Week 8 at the Eagles, including a touchdown pass. It was his first touchdown of the season.
Analysis: Boss seems to take a beating every week for the Giants and Week 8 against the Eagles was certainly not different. He had his knee rolled up on on one play and appeared to be in serious pain, but returned shortly after and wound up scoring a touchdown. He's a workman who does a lot of dirty work for the Giants, but it doesn't result in big statistical games. View him as a suitable stopgap or bye week replacement, but don't expect big games out of him on a week-to-week basis. The Giants host the Chargers in Week 9.
News: The New York Times reports Giants TE Kevin Boss said Monday that he did not sustain a concussion when he was hit on the head during Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Cardinals on Sunday night. But Boss, who was hit helmet to helmet by safety Antrel Rolle after a 25-yard reception said, "It feels like I've gotten in a car wreck. Anytime you get hit that hard, definitely the lights turn off for a second," Boss said. "But I came to pretty quick."
Analysis: It sounds like Boss will be fine for Week 8 against the Eagles. Keep an eye on his status, but consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE against Philadelphia. The Eagles are the worst team against opposing tight ends with 43 catches for 470 yards and four touchdowns allowed in six games, so Boss could be considered a sleeper in deep leagues.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss was seen leaving the X-ray room after the game Sunday against the Cardinals. Boss received a helmet-to-helmet hit late in the game and was slow to get to his feet. He finished with three catches for 35 yards.
Analysis: Boss has battled an ankle injury the past three weeks, but he has been able to play through it. Keep an eye on his head injury and hope he's ready for Week 8 at the Eagles. When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught one pass in Week 6 at New Orleans. He returned from an ankle injury that forced him to miss Week 5 against Oakland.
Analysis: Boss was thrown to twice in the game. Boss has been held to three or fewer catches in all but one game this season and his best game was a 3-catch, 62-yard game in Week 1. He's been no more than a No. 2 Fantasy tight end this season and should be viewed as just a bye week or injury replacement for Week 7 against the Cardinals.
News: As expected, Giants QB Eli Manning, RB Ahmad Bradshaw and TE Kevin Boss have been declared active and will play in Week 6 at New Orleans.
Analysis: All three players are safe plays and Fantasy owners waiting for official word on their health can go ahead and activate them. They are all safe plays.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (ankle) was able to practice Thursday and Friday without limitation. He was out for Week 5 against Oakland but is expected to play in Week 6 against New Orleans. He has been listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Boss looks like he'll be able to go Week 6 after sitting out Week 5. When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (ankle) returned to practice Wednesday after sitting out against Oakland. He will be questionable for Week 6 at the Saints.
Analysis: New Orleans has yielded only 18 completions to tight ends through four games this season. Keep an eye on Boss' status, but consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE this week.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss (ankle) was listed as inactive for Week 5 against Oakland. He had been listed as doubtful on the injury report and was not expected to play.
Analysis: Boss had been feeling better throughout the course of the week, but the Giants did not feel he was ready enough to activate. Keep him reserved in all leagues until he is healthy enough to return, but he has been merely a No. 2 caliber tight end in Fantasy when healthy.
News: After missing practice all week with a sprained right ankle, Giants TE Kevin Boss was officially listed as doubtful for Week 5 against the Raiders. He's not expected to play.
Analysis: Boss hasn't been a good Fantasy option to begin with, and other tight ends like Vernon Davis and Marcedes Lewis have passed him by on our rankings. Consider one of them or another decent TE option over Boss both this week, and into the future.
News: TE Kevin Boss is feeling slightly better. "The ankle is down a little bit," said coach Tom Coughlin. Coughlin has left the door open for rookie LT Will Beatty to see some more time as a TE for blocking purposes. "Under normal circumstances, we could do that," Coughlin added.
Analysis: When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Raiders. The fact that he's at less than 100 percent makes him an unappealing option in Fantasy this week.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not practice because of a sprained right ankle. He said it is improving but is considered questionable for Week 5 anyway. The Giants might consider using backup offensive lineman William Beatty as a tackle-eligible blocker to replace Boss on Sunday against the Raiders.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Boss' status and hope he's OK for Week 5 against Oakland. When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 Fantasy option, though he hasn't been posting strong stats this year.
News: Also added to the Giants' walking-wounded Monday was TE Kevin Boss. Coach Tom Coughlin tentatively called him, "day-to-day," and added that the injury is an ankle sprain that Boss previously had. He was hurt Sunday at Kansas City but finished the game. He had four catches for 41 yards on the day.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Boss' status and hope he's OK for Week 5 against Oakland. When healthy, Boss is a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Raiders.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught four passes for 41 yards in Week 4 at Kansas City. He was targeted five times in the game. The four catches were a season high.
Analysis: Boss appeared to have suffered an injury just prior to the end of the first half, but he returned and played in the second half. He is the Giants' leading pass catching tight end, but is not an explosive receiving option who is targeted regularly in the offense. He should be viewed as a serviceable, albeit unspectacular Fantasy TE for Week 5 in what figures to be a favorable matchup against the Raiders.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss will face a non division opponent in Week 4 at Kansas City. The Chiefs have allowed an average of 243 net passing yards per game through the first three weeks of the season. They have allowed five passing touchdowns.
Analysis: The Chiefs allowed Eagles TE Brent Celek eight catches for 104 yards and a touchdown in Week 3. Todd Heap had five catches for 74 yards and a touchdown against them in Week 1. Boss is not quite at the level of those two tight ends, having caught just three passes combined over his last two weeks, totaling less than 50 yards. He has not scored a touchdown this season. However, this matchup is favorable enough to consider him a sleeper as a bye week or injury replacement in Week 4.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught two passes for 27 yards in a Week 3 win over the Buccaneers.
Analysis: The Giants didn't need to pass in Week 3 as they ran all over the Bucs, so Boss' targets were limited. In Week 4, New York plays at Kansas City and Boss should continue to be thought of as just a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had just one catch at Dallas, good for 13 yards. QB Eli Manning hooked up with Mario Manningham and Steve Smith for 10 catches, over 130 yards receiving and a touchdown each, taking targets and stats away from his tight end. A 17-yard reception was wiped out by a Giants penalty; he was targeted a total of three times.
Analysis: Boss' role in the Giants' offense is not minimalized yet, but the fact that other options are emerging for the team as well as a glut of good tight ends emerging around the NFL makes Boss more of a top-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. He was already considered a good red-zone target for the Giants, and he'll keep that role, but the rest of his opportunities might suffer some. Consider other options before going with Boss at Tampa Bay in Week 3.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught a touchdown last season against the Cowboys, New York's Week 2 opponent. Also, Dallas allowed a Week 1 score to Bucs TE Kellen Winslow.
Analysis: Boss is a big, reliable target for Eli Manning, and he should see enough targets this season without a true No. 1 WR on the Giants. Start Boss in deeper leagues.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who has the potential to play a bigger role in the passing game with Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone, already was more of a factor in the season opener against the Redskins. He caught three passes for 62 yards. Only once did he have 60 yards receiving in a game last season.
Analysis: Boss has been more of a target in the red zone than between the 20s, but that could change this year. He showed Sunday why he's a respectable option in Fantasy if you missed out on the elite options on Draft Day. He's a viable starter at Dallas in Week 2.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has played just three career games against the Washington Redskins, his Week 1 opponent. Boss saw two games against the 'Skins in 2008 but failed to make a catch in the first game at Giants Stadium. He did grab three balls at Washington later in the year for 45 yards.
Analysis: Boss led the Giants with six receiving touchdowns in 2008 but none came against Washington. He did score against them in 2007, however. Boss has high expectations this season, and he did well helping the Giants replace Jeremy Shockey last year. We like Boss to step up his game this season. Last year, he had 33 catches for 384 yards and six touchdowns in the regular season. He should improve on those stats this year and is worth using in most Fantasy leagues Week 1.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is looking to make a statement during the preseason that he can help the Giants depleted receiving corps with Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer gone. "We all have something to prove, so as a group it helps a lot because every time you get the opportunity you are trying to take it to the next level," Boss said. "So whatever chance you get, short pass, deep pass, you are trying to do something with it. It is putting the edge on us to go over the top in whatever you do."
Analysis: Boss has high expectations this season, and he did well helping the Giants replace Jeremy Shockey last year. We like Boss to step up his game this season. Last year, he had 33 catches for 384 yards and six touchdowns in the regular season. He should improve on those stats this year, and he's worth drafting as a borderline No. 1 Fantasy option with a late-round pick.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss is looking forward to this season. After a recent OTA workout, Boss said this in Newsday: "It's great to be back out on the field. The way last season ended left a bad taste in our mouths. It's good to start working toward the new season."
Analysis: Boss has high expectations this season with the Giants missing Plaxico Burress and Amani Toomer on the roster. He had high expectations last year also trying to replace Jeremy Shockey. We like Boss to step up his game this season. Last year, he had 33 catches for 384 yards and six touchdowns in the regular season. He should improve on those stats this year, and he's worth drafting as a borderline No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss led his teammates with 52 receiving yards on three catches in Sunday's Divisional Playoff loss to the Eagles. The Giants are eliminated from the playoffs after the 23-11 Eagles win. Boss, however, looked very good in the game and came up with some big plays.
Analysis: Boss finished the regular season with 33 catches for 384 yards and six touchdowns as the man who took over the tight end duties from Jeremy Shockey. It wasn't exactly Shockey-esque totals but the Giants, and Fantasy owners, will take it. He never had a 100-yard game but was solid all year and should enter 2009 as a high-end No. 2 option in Fantasy and a very solid bye-week replacement.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss has been listed as inactive for Week 17 at Minnesota with ankle and concussion problems. He was listed as doubtful coming into the game. The club has listed Michael Matthews as the starter at tight end for the game.
Analysis: Boss should remain benched in keeper leagues and dropped for an alternative in seasonal leagues, with Matthews no better than a desperation pickup off the waiver wire for the game against the Vikings. He should see a lot of playing time.
News: According to The Daily News Giants TE Kevin Boss was one of eight Giants players in the team trainer's office Wednesday as the Giants prepare for their Week 17 game at Minnesota. Boss is questionable for the final game of the regular season.
Analysis: Boss looked to be turning things around last week, getting into the end zone after a two-game absence and racking up 46 receiving yards. Since the Giants have locked up the top spot in the NFC, they may take it easy with Boss and let him rest a couple of weeks. Boss is a pretty risky start for Week 17.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught five passes for 46 yards in Week 16 against Carolina, including a 4-yard touchdown pass.
Analysis: Boss came into the game with just one catch in each of his two previous games so anyone who started him was taking a leap of faith. In leagues of 12-plus teams, it paid off mostly thanks to the touchdown. The Giants have clinched home field advantage through the playoffs and may be looking to rest their regulars in Week 17 in Minnesota, making Boss a risky play.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss continued his disappearing act Sunday at Dallas with one catch for 23 yards. Boss now has only two catches for 28 yards in his past two games against the Cowboys and Eagles.
Analysis: Boss has struggled to get open without Plaxico Burress on the field. It's hard to trust Boss at this point so don't plan on using him in Week 15 against Carolina. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Even with Plaxico Burress out of the lineup for good, Giants TE Kevin Boss had a miserable day Week 14 against the Eagles. He caught only a five-yard pass.
Analysis: Boss entered with at least 45 yards receiving in each of his previous two games, but he remains a decent red-zone target. He isn't the best choice to start at tight end in Fantasy, but he can suffice as a No. 1 option Week 15 at Dallas. He had 30 yards receiving and caught a touchdown pass against the Cowboys in Week 9.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss made three catches for 45 yards in Week 13's 23-7 win over the Redskins. Boss went for a long of 24 yards as two of his grabs were pretty athletic plays. He's quite athletic for a big tight end and is helping the Giants forget they onetime possessed Jeremy Shockey.
Analysis: Boss has four touchdowns in his last six games and five on the season for the Giants. He's quickly becoming a favorite target of QB Eli Manning and is emerging as a viable Fantasy play on a weekly basis. He's a threat to score every week and worth using as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 14 against the Eagles.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught four passes for 48 yards in Week 12 at the Cardinals, including a 10-yard touchdown pass. It was his fourth game with a touchdown pass in his last five games.
Analysis: Boss was coming off a game without a catch, but he has become a more consistent target in the Giants' pass offense as the season has gone on. He's a real nice target in the red zone for Manning and is a threat to score every week. For that reason, he can be considered useful in leagues of 12-plus teams that require a tight end for Week 13 at Washington.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss had no catches Sunday against Baltimore. He snapped a streak of three games in a row with a touchdown.
Analysis: This was expected for Boss to struggle since the Ravens have done well against tight ends all year. Look for Boss to bounce back in Week 12 at Arizona and consider Boss a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: In the Giants' 36-31 win at the Eagles in Week 10, TE Kevin Boss continued his statistical surge by leading the club in receptions, six, and receiving yards, 69, with a touchdown. Boss has now scored in three straight games and has seen his receptions improve in each of his last three. Manning attempted to connect with Boss again on a second-half touchdown pass that Boss dropped.
Analysis: There is no doubt now that Boss is starting to carve out a role in the Giants passing offense. Owned in just 51 percent of CBSSports.com leagues, Fantasy owners should consider Boss a middle- to low-end No. 1 Fantasy tight end option until further notice. While he'll have a tough matchup in Week 11 vs. the Ravens -- and the Ravens will be ready to defend against him -- Boss is still a nice red-zone target for Manning to throw at.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, coming off his second straight game with a touchdown, has a sprained ankle that will limit him in practice this week.
Analysis: Despite his slow start, Boss has emerged as a red-zone target and a useful Fantasy tight end for leagues of 12-plus teams or leagues that use two tight ends. Keep an eye on this injury, but he'll probably play at Philadelphia in Week 10.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught three passes for 30 yards in Week 9 against Dallas, including a 13-yard touchdown. It was his second straight game with a touchdown.
Analysis: Boss was targeted five times in the game and is starting to become a bigger part of the offense. The touchdown pass in the first quarter was clearly designed to free him up and the fact he's getting looks in the red zone makes him that much more appealing. Despite his slow start, Boss has emerged as a useful Fantasy tight end for leagues of 12-plus teams or leagues that use two tight ends, especially during the bye weeks. The Giants play at Philadelphia in Week 10.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught four passes for 34 yards in Week 8 at the Pittsburgh Steelers, including the game-winning 2-yard touchdown pass.
Analysis: Boss was targeted five times in the game by Eli Manning against an aggressive defense that left some holes up the middle of the field. Boss is by no means a primary pass-catching target in the Giants offense the way Jeremy Shockey was, but he can be useful as a No. 2 Fantasy tight end or bye week replacement. The Giants host the Cowboys in Week 9.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not have a catch in Week 7 against San Francisco. He was thrown to just once in the game.
Analysis: Boss is not a regular target in the Giants' pass offense, but does get a couple of looks per game. He could be in line for a few touchdowns this season, but there is no trend to suggest he is a reliable Fantasy tight end. View him as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy tight end during the bye weeks. The Giants travel to Pittsburgh in Week 8.
News: For the second straight game, Giants TE Kevin Boss caught just one pass -- a 24-yarder -- Week 6 at Cleveland. He has only six catches on the season.
Analysis: Boss is not a regular target in the Giants' pass offense, but does get a couple of looks per game. Until he starts contributing more statistically, treat him as no more than a bye-week replacement. The Giants host the 49ers in Week 7.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught two passes for nine yards in Week 5 vs. Seattle. He was thrown to three times in the game.
Analysis: Boss is not a regular target in the Giants' pass offense, but does get a couple of looks per game. He could be in line for a few touchdowns this season, but there is no trend to suggest he is a reliable Fantasy tight end. View him as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy tight end during the bye weeks. The Giants travel to Cleveland in Week 6.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Kevin Boss, still perfecting his blocking, has no qualms about being an "afterthought" in QB Eli Manning's mind. Boss has only three receptions this season, all in the last game, but Manning denies there is any reluctance to throw to him. "He's one of the receivers I look for," he said. "It's just that the first one or two guys in the 'read' have been open."
Analysis: Boss has not been a regular target in the Giants' pass offense and likely never will be in the way Jeremy Shockey was. But he can be useful as a red zone target and has some appeal in larger leagues as a No. 2 tight end or bye week replacement.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that TE Kevin Boss had three receptions in Week 3 against Cincinnati, the first three of the season for him and any other TE on the roster. "We always had him in our game plan," said QB Eli Manning. "Things just were more available before."
Analysis: Boss has not been a regular target in the Giants' pass offense and likely never will be in the way Jeremy Shockey was. But he can be useful as a red zone target and has some appeal in larger leagues as a No. 2 tight end or bye week replacement. But in Week 4, the Giants will be on a bye so he won't be helpful in that role obviously.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who came into Week 3 without a catch, made three catches for 51 yards against the Bengals. He caught a go-ahead 4-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter for his first touchdown of the season.
Analysis: Boss has not been a regular target in the Giants' pass offense and likely never will be in the way Jeremy Shockey was. But he can be useful as a red zone target and has some appeal in larger leagues as a No. 2 tight end or bye week replacement. But in Week 4, the Giants will be on a bye so he won't be helpful in that role obviously.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss will take on the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 3 at Giants Stadium. The Bengals (0-2) have allowed just 247 yards passing combined over their first two games. That's the fewest passing yards of any team this season that has played two games. They've allowed just one touchdown in the two games, but have recorded no interceptions and only one sack.
Analysis: Don't be alarmed by the yardage totals. The Giants aren't exactly playing the best pass defense in the league. The numbers, in this case, do lie. The Bengals played a rookie quarterback playing his first NFL game in Week 1 and they played in ridiculously windy conditions in Week 2 due to the remnants of Hurricane Ike. With that said, Boss hasn't put up numbers against any pass defense. In Week 2, Boss did not have a catch against the Rams and they've allowed the most passing yards in the NFL through the first two weeks. Boss may be a viable bye week replacement option at some point this season, but that doesn't help anyone right now.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not have a catch in Week 2 at St. Louis. He caught one ball, but had the play called back for a holding penalty.
Analysis: Let's get something straight. Boss is no Jeremy Shockey and he doesn't figure to be used in the offense as a primary receiver ofter like Shockey had been in his career as a Giant. But that doesn't mean he can't be useful in Fantasy. View him as a No. 2 Fantasy tight end or a bye week replacement option.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss failed to record a catch Week 1 against the Redskins. He was targeted twice by QB Eli Manning, including a pass in the third quarter in which Boss was overthrown and the ball was picked by Fred Smoot.
Analysis: The Giants were able to beat Washington 16-7 Week 1 despite Boss not being very active in the gameplan. The Giants traded Jeremy Shockey to New Orleans in the offseason after Boss helped them win the Super Bowl last season. He is a capable pass receiver, but Boss is no Shockey. He remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 2 against the Rams.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Giants TE Kevin Boss, a rookie (fifth round) last year who took over for the injured Jeremy Shockey, is now the starter with Shockey having been traded to New Orleans. He is bigger (265 pounds on his 6-6 frame) and plays with obviously more confidence. "His blocking is better, too," says position coach Mike Pope. "We miss Jeremy. I know I do, but Kevin is going to make the position proud."
Analysis: The TE position is one of the areas where the Giants must find answers fast, but it seems almost certain that the Giants will use Boss as their primary tight end. That doesn't mean he'll be a plug-and-play replacement for Shockey, however. He's not going to be featured quite as prominently as Shockey was in the offense and will be used much more as a blocker and a safety valve for quarterback Eli Manning. Don't expect huge numbers from Boss, who will enter the season as a secondary Fantasy tight end.
News: The trading of TE Jeremy Shockey to New Orleans put second-year pro Kevin Boss in the starting position and, at least during the first few days of camp, he looked bigger, more confident and had three outstanding catches, according to The Sports Xchange. "I'm more familiar with what I have to do," he said, "and while Jeremy helped me a lot last year, this is how things are and I have to do my part immediately."
Analysis: The TE position is one of the areas where the Giants must find answers fast, but it seems almost certain that the Giants will use Boss as their primary tight end. That doesn't mean he'll be a plug-and-play replacement for Shockey, however. He's not going to be featured quite as prominently as Shockey was in the offense and will be used much more as a blocker and a safety valve for quarterback Eli Manning. Don't expect huge numbers from Boss, who will enter the season as a secondary Fantasy tight end.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who figures to get most of the snaps left by the departure of Jeremy Shockey, made two brilliant diving receptions in the afternoon workout Saturday. Each brought a loud cheer from the fans who hope the second-year man from Western Oregon will fill the tight end void.
Analysis: It's safe to draft Boss as a low-end No. 1 option now that Shockey is gone.
News: The New Orleans Saints have acquired disgruntled New York Giants TE Jeremy Shockey for two draft picks. Saints spokesman Greg Bensel on Monday confirmed the trade. The Giants said they will get second- and fifth-round picks in the 2009 draft. The deal must be approved by the league and is contingent on Shockey passing a physical. With Shockey gone, Kevin Boss will be the starter for the Giants.
Analysis: Boss played well when Shockey went down at the end of the regular season. Seeing regular playing time in place of Shockey, who was lost for the season after Week 14, Boss totaled 118 yards on nine catches (13.1 avg.) with two touchdowns, then posted 90 yards on five catches, including a 45-yard reception in Super Bowl XLII, in the Giants' four postseason games. It's safe to draft Boss as a low-end No. 1 option now that Shockey is gone.
News: Giants backup rookie TE Kevin Boss didn't play much in 2007, but when he did he made it count. Seeing regular playing time in place of TE Jeremy Shockey, who was lost for the season after Week 14, Boss totaled 118 yards on nine catches (13.1 avg.) with two touchdowns, then posted 90 yards on five catches, including a 45-yard reception in Super Bowl XLII, in the Giants' four preseason games.
Analysis: Boss isn't expected to overtake Shockey in the G-Men's starting lineup, but he should be considered a semi-regular player in the offense. However, only owners in dynasty/keeper leagues and in the deepest of Fantasy Football leagues need to concern themselves with Boss as a low-end reserve type.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who missed practice Thursday because of an illness, returned to full practice Friday for Sunday's Divisional Playoff game at Dallas. The team officially lists him as probable.
Analysis: Boss capped the 2007 season with a four-catch, 50-yard performance that included a touchdown Week 17 against the Patriots. He wasn't much of a receiving threat in a Wild Card win at Tampa Bay, but he remains a decent flier in postseason Fantasy formats heading into the Dallas game. We suspect he has recovered from his illness.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, who took over the starting job when Jeremy Shockey broke his leg in Week 15, missed practice Thursday because of an illness. "We're hoping it's 24 hours," coach Tom Coughlin said as the team prepares for a Divisional Playoff game at Dallas.
Analysis: Boss capped the 2007 season with a four-catch, 50-yard performance that included a touchdown Week 17 against the Patriots. He wasn't much of a receiving threat in a Wild Card win at Tampa Bay, but still remains a decent flier in postseason Fantasy formats heading into the Dallas game. He should be able to go unless the illness proves to be serious. As for his Fantasy value next season, he likely won't have any with a healthy Shockey on the field.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, replacing an injured Jeremy Shockey in Week 17 against the Patriots, had four catches for 50 yards, including a three-yard touchdown.
Analysis: Boss clearly has some receiving ability, but don't expect him to make a Fantasy impact in 2008 unless something happens to Shockey.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss did not have a catch in Week 16 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Boss is starting in place of the injured Jeremy Shockey, but he is not going to be used the same way that Shockey was. He's not a recommended option for Week 17 vs. the Patriots.
News: The unenviable task of filling Jeremy Shockey's shoes now that Shockey is out for the season falls to rookie Kevin Boss, a fifth-round pick out of Division II Western Oregon. He'll split the tight end duties with rookie Michael Matthews, who has been serving as the second, blocking tight end most of the season. Shockey is the team's second-leading receiver with 57 catches for 619 yards. Most of his pass-catching duties will fall to Boss when the Giants play at Buffalo on Sunday. "You can't really replace a guy like Jeremy," said the 6-6, 253-pounder Boss, who had two catches for 31 yards including a 19-yard touchdown Sunday night. "I do feel confident, especially with going in there yesterday and getting a lot of reps. I'm confident that I can finish out the season and try to help the team win."
Analysis: The Giants have confidence in Boss, too. Tom Coughlin said Monday that Boss has "made a lot of progress," though Eli Manning said both Boss and Matthews "will have to grow up real quick and figure out what it takes to play a whole game." Consider Boss a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 16 at Buffalo.
News: The Giants received some bad news Week 15 after Jeremy Shockey was forced to leave the game against the Redskins in the third quarter with a leg injury. Reports came down during the game that Shockey broke his left fibula and also sustained ankle damage that will likely keep him out the rest of the season. Shockey's departure thrust rookie Kevin Boss into a bigger role against Washington. How did he respond? With his first career touchdown. Boss caught two passes for 31 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown grab in the third quarter.
Analysis: Boss came into the game with just three catches for 37 yards, but now will have to take on a bigger role with Shockey supposedly out of the lineup. Boss is not nearly as talented as Shockey and can't be trusted outside of a No. 2 Fantasy TE if he does become the new starting TE. The Giants play the Bills in Week 16.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss caught one pass for 4 yards at Chicago in Week 13.
Analysis: Boss doesn't post enough stats on a regular basis to warrant use in Fantasy play. Keep him off rosters at this point. The Giants play at Philadelphia in Week 14.
News: Giants QB Antony Wright, RB Patrick Pass, RB Madison Hedgecock, WR David Tyree and TE Kevin Boss did not record any offensive stats in Week 12 vs. Minnesota.
Analysis: None of the players listed here are in a position to help your Fantasy squad. Leave them on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Giants rookie TE Kevin Boss caught a 15-yard pass at Detroit in Week 11.
Analysis: Boss doesn't post good enough statistics on a regular basis to be considered for standard Fantasy play. Keep him off rosters when the Giants host the Vikings in Week 12.
News: Giants rookie TE Kevin Boss recorded his first NFL catch Week 10 against the Cowboys. His 18-yard grab in the second half was his first reception in six NFL games.
Analysis: Boss is third on the Giants' depth chart at tight end and hardly sees the field outside of special teams. Ignore him heading into Week 11 against the Lions.
News: Giants RB Madison Hedgecock, WR Sinorice Moss, WR David Tyree, WR Domenik Hixon, TE Michael Matthews and TE Kevin Boss did not record any offensive statistics in Week 7 vs. San Francisco.
Analysis: None of these players are recommended Fantasy options and they should all be left on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Giants RB Madison Hedgecock, WR David Tyree, WR Domenik Hixon, TE Kevin Boss, TE Michael Matthews and QB Anthony Wright didn't record meaningful statistics Week 6 at Atlanta.
Analysis: These players either sit low on the depth chart or do more blocking than catching and running. Keep all on the waiver wire for Week 7 against the 49ers.
News: Giants backup QB Aaron Wright, WR David Tyree, WR Domenik Hixon and TE Kevin Boss did not record an offensive statistic in Week 5 vs. the N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: None of these players are in a position to help your Fantasy team. Keep them on the waiver wire in all leagues until further notice.
News: RB Ahmad Bradshaw, WR Anthony Mix, WR Sinorice Moss and WR David Tyree each played in Week 4 against the Eagles, but they did not record any offensive statistics. TE Kevin Boss and backup QB Anthony Wright each dressed, but did not get into the game.
Analysis: Boss is not worth a look in Fantasy leagues. The Giants play at N.Y. Jets in Week 5.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, DB Craig Dahl, RB Robert Douglas, QB Jared Lorenzen (3rd QB), WR Steve Smith and LB Gerris Wilkinson are all inactive Week 3 at Washington.
Analysis: None of these players are solid Fantasy contributors when active. Keep them reserved in all Fantasy formats for Week 3.
News: Giants RB Madison Hedgecock and TE Kevin Boss did not record an offensive statistic in Week 2 vs. Green Bay.
Analysis: For the time being, neither player has any Fantasy appeal. Keep them on the waiver wire in all leagues.
News: RB/KR Ahmad Bradshaw, TE Kevin Boss, TE Michael Matthews, WR Anthony Mix and WR Sinorice Moss each suited up and played in Week 1 at Dallas, but none of the players managed any offensive statistics. Bradshaw also fumbled once on a return, but was able to recover.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned, with the exception of Santana Moss, have any Fantasy value at this time. Moss is only worth using as a reserve in deeper leagues heading into Week 2 against the Packers.
News: Giants rookie TE Kevin Boss played at Baltimore in preseason action but failed to haul in a catch. Eli Manning threw at him once, as did Jared Lorenzen.
Analysis: Boss is auditioning for the No. 2 TE role behind Jeremy Shockey. His playing time will be limited this season unless Shockey gets hurt. Keep him off of seasonal Fantasy rosters, but cast an eye towards him with a late-round pick in rookie-only dynasty league drafts.
News: Giants WR Plaxico Burress attempted to practice for the first time Wednesday since spraining his right ankle on Aug. 2, but had to quit after a couple of minutes. Also, cornerback Corey Webster missed practice with a hip injury, while rookie tight end Kevin Boss missed his second straight day due to a bruised shoulder.
Analysis: Boss will not play enough to help your Fantasy team this year, but he is worth keeping an eye on for the future. Do not draft him in any leagues in 2007.
News: Giants TE Kevin Boss, the fifth-round draft pick, suffered a shoulder contusion in Saturday's preseason game against the Panthers and his status for Monday's practice is uncertain.
Analysis: Boss will not play enough to help your Fantasy team this year, but he is worth keeping an eye on for the future. Do not draft him in any leagues in 2007.
News: According to the Star Ledger, the Giants agreed to terms with TE Kevin Boss, the team's fifth-round pick, on a four-year contract. Boss, a Western Oregon graduate, impressed the coaches during minicamp and might begin the season as the No. 2 TE behind Jeremy Shockey.
Analysis: Boss will not play enough to help your Fantasy team this year, but he is worth keeping an eye on for the future. Do not draft him in any leagues in 2007.
News: Aside from second-round pick WR Steve Smith, the Giants' 2007 draft class includes: Texas CB Aaron Ross, Penn State DT Jay Alford, Brown LB Zak DeOssie, Western Oregon TE Kevin Boss, Oregon State OT Adam Koets, Arizona SS Michael Johnson and Marshall RB Ahmad Bradshaw.
Analysis: Ross is a total package DB who should start right away for the G-Men and be a game-changing cornerback. He's worth a late-round flier in IDP leagues and an early-round pick in dynasty rookie drafts. Alford and DeOssie will have the chance to develop into good defensive players as their careers go on, while the rest will be reserves for the club in 2007 and not put up enough points to warrant use in Fantasy play.
