News:USA Today reports that Eagles tight end James Casey will undergo arthroscopic surgery to clean out loose cartilage his right knee and will be out of action for the rest of the spring. A team spokesman said Casey should be ready to go by the start of training camp. Casey signed a three-year deal with $14.5 million as one of the first additions for the Eagles in a busy opening few days in free agency. The former Texans fullback/tight end is expected to play a key role in coach Chip Kelly's offense.
Analysis: Casey had career-highs with 34 receptions, 330 yards and three touchdowns last year, numbers that could spike with the Eagles because of the expected design of the offense and the up-tempo style that will result in more snaps. Like any player getting used to Kelly's offense, Casey would surely benefit from more reps through the rest of organized team activities and minicamp, so being sidelined for the next month isn't ideal. Still, if all goes as well as planned, Casey should get plenty of time on the field in July and August as long as he's healthy. He's not worth drafting in most leagues, but Casey is someone to monitor as a potential waiver wire addition if he's fine as expected following this procedure.
News: The Eagles quickly moved to sign Texans fullback/tight end James Casey in free agency, and coach Chip Kelly quickly explained why he liked him. "Extremely versatile, and one of the qualities we really liked about him," Kelly said, talking up his former work as a baseball player and lining up at six different positions while at Rice University. " ... [A]s a coach it's almost like you kind of got a new toy when there's a lot of different spots you can put him in because he's got a background in it and he's extremely smart, extremely intelligent. ... [A] guy that can really come into our program and have a big effect on what we're going to do."
Analysis: Kelly effectively compared Casey to Aaron Hernandez as a player who could line up anywhere and be a problem for defenses. That's enough for Fantasy owners to take notice. Casey went on to say that he's "hopefully going to get some opportunities in the offense these coming years." He's one to watch this summer as a potential low-risk, high-reward Fantasy tight end. Get him on your radar late in drafts assuming he's working regularly with the Eagles' first-team offense in camp and the preseason.
News: The Eagles made their first 2013 free-agent signing official Tuesday night, announcing that they have agreed to terms on a three-year deal with tight end James Casey. The Eagles announcement specifically identified Casey as a tight end, and that's significant since he was used as a fullback in Houston.
Analysis: Casey had minimal Fantasy value in Houston, but he plays multiple roles. Keep an eye on how he's used with the Eagles in training camp, but he's not worth drafting in the majority of leagues. He could turn out to be a waiver wire addition if he starts off the season playing well.
News: Houston running back/tight end James Casey caught his third touchdown pass of the season in the team's 24-10 victory over the Titans. He caught one pass on three targets.
Analysis: Casey makes for an interesting x-factor, but is pretty low on the list of passing options for Matt Schaub. He's best used in the same manner as Green Bay's John Kuhn -- a low-yardage touchdown threat, but tough to predict when, exactly, he will score. Casey has little Fantasy value at this time.
News: Houston running back/tight end James Casey caught a touchdown pass during the Week 11 overtime win over Jacksonville Sunday. Casey caught one of five TD passes from Matt Schaub on the game as the quarterback threw for 527 yards. Casey scored on a 1-yard pass in the second quarter. He finished with three grabs for 20 yards and was targeted three times overall.
Analysis: Casey caught his second touchdown pass of the season in the Week 11 win. Schaub really spread the ball around against Jacksonville. That said, we do not see this continuing and Casey is not a recommended Fantasy option for the Week 12 Thanksgiving game at Detroit.
News: Texans fullback James Casey had three catches for 49 yards Sunday against the Bills in Week 9. He had three targets and now has at least four Fantasy points in a standard league in three of his past five games.
Analysis: Casey won't do much offensively on a consistent basis to help your Fantasy team, but he could be useful in deeper formats. Still, he's a risky starting option heading into Week 10 at Chicago.
News: Texans H-back James Casey took his first handoff of the season at home against the Ravens in Week 7. Casey took the handoff on a third-and-short situation and took it for a 6-yard gain for his only offensive production of the afternoon. He was targeted twice but finished without a catch in a 43-13 victory.
Analysis: Casey has been barely involved on offense and is used primarily in short-yard scenarios in the running game. His 6-yard gain on Sunday was the second carry of his career. That said, he is used more in the passing game and finished with at least a reception in each game leading up to Week 7. It was the first time since Week 16 in 2010 that he has failed to come down with at least one catch in a game. Casey has 162 yards and a touchdown through six and is not considered a reliable Fantasy option. He'll head into a bye week in Week 8 and is not a recommended start heading into Week 9 at home against the Bills.
News: Houston H-back James Casey was barely involved in the passing game against the Packers at home in Week 6. He caught both of his targeted passes for 27 yards in a 42-24 defeat. Casey was the team's fourth leading receiver behind Andre Johnson (75 yards), Owen Daniels (46 yards) and Kevin Walter (28 yards).
Analysis: Casey has been involved a bit in the passing game each week and has at least two receptions in his last five games. Casey has 162 yards and a touchdown this season and is not considered a reliable Fantasy option. He is not a recommended start heading into Week 7 at home against the Ravens.
News: Texans running back James Casey was fairly productive in Week 5 against the Jets. Casey finished with four receptions for 53 yards in the 23-17 win, which was second only to Owen Daniels' 79 yards. He had a long of 30 yards and was targeted five times by Matt Schaub.
Analysis: For the second week, Casey has made an impact in the passing game as he continues to see more and more snaps for the Texans. His ability to run block makes him a unique H-back option for Houston and gives Schaub another safety valve to get the ball to when under pressure. However, with the likes of Arian Foster, Andre Johnson and Daniels on the roster, Casey can't be counted on to be a reliable Fantasy option at this point in the season. He is not a recommended start when the Packers head to town in Week 6.
News: Texans running back James Casey had his first touchdown Week 4 vs. Tennessee since Week 3 of the 2011 season. Casey opened the scoring with an 11-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter. He caught all five of his targets for 36 yards.
Analysis: Prior to Sunday, Casey's last score came during his breakout performance in 2011, when he went off for 126 yards against New Orleans. Casey was a hot pickup after that game, primarily because he had tight-end eligibility in Fantasy, which is something he no longer has. Casey is more of a H-back these days for Houston, which is why he is now running-back eligible. Casey has at least three catches in each of his last three games, but we aren't expecting a ton of big performances, so he is not a recommended Fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Jets.
News: Houston fullback James Casey had a quiet afternoon during Sunday's game against the Broncos. Casey hauled in three passes for 11 yards, including a first down in a 35-21 victory.
Analysis: Casey is the fullback and is not expected to make much of an impact in Fantasy as the season progresses. He should be left on waivers moving forward.
News: Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said the James Casey will primarily play fullback, but that he'll also see time at tight end in their two-TE sets. "He's going to play everywhere," Kubiak said. "He's our starting fullback today; he's our starting 'Tiger' today if we go to two (tight ends), so James is going to play all over the place. It's still about versatility with James, so that really hasn't changed."
Analysis: Anytime a player can land more playing time, the door opens for more stats. We still suspect that Casey won't evolve into a prominent Fantasy option, so don't add him to rosters, but he might be worth watching in the early going.
News: Taking advantage of the absence of TE Owen Daniels (knee) and a limited role for WR Andre Johnson, TE James Casey played a prominent role in the Texans' passing game in Week 17. Casey led Houston with 91 receiving yards on seven catches in a 23-22 loss to the Titans. Over the first 15 games of the season, Casey had made just 11 catches for 169 yards.
Analysis: Casey was used more as a blocking back than as a receiver this year, but given the opportunity to contribute to the passing game, he put up some nice numbers. Owners cannot expect Casey to repeat this type of performance in the postseason, so he can be ignored going forward.
News: Texans TE James Casey had one catch for 5 yards Sunday at Jacksonville in Week 12. He had two targets in the game.
Analysis: Casey is a blocking H-back for the Texans and has minimal Fantasy value. Ignore him in the majority of leagues in Week 13 against the Falcons.
News: Texans TE James Casey is active for the Week 8 game against Jacksonville, as expected would be the case. Casey will be making his first appearance since injuring his pectoral muscle in the Week 5 loss to the Raiders.
Analysis: Casey has missed the last two games, but he hasn't made any Fantasy headlines since his breakout game against the Saints. Casey may be back, but his value in Fantasy remains low-end.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak reiterated Friday that FB James Casey will play against the Jaguars in Week 8, his first appearance since injuring his pectoral muscle in the Week 5 loss to the Raiders. "He's come a long way, but he's ready to go," Kubiak said. Casey is listed as probable.
Analysis: Casey has missed the last two games, but he hasn't made any Fantasy headlines since his breakout game against the Saints. Even if Casey is on track to return, don't plan on starting him in Fantasy.
News: Texans TE James Casey (chest) went through another practice Thursday and all signs still point to him returning to the lineup Week 8 vs. Jacksonville. "He practiced. He was fine (today)," coach Gary Kubiak said Thursday. "All indications are right now that he should be ready to go."
Analysis: Casey has missed the last two games, but he hasn't made any Fantasy headlines since his breakout game against the Saints. Even if Casey is on track to return, don't plan on starting him in Fantasy.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak said TE James Casey (chest) was limited in practice Wednesday but said Casey will return to the lineup Week 8 against the Jaguars. However, he isn't sure if Casey will start. "I'll know a lot more (Thursday) when we put pads on and go out and practice," Casey said. Casey said he would adapt to however the Texans plan to use him if he is able to play on Sunday.
Analysis: Casey has missed the last two games, but he hasn't made any Fantasy headlines since his breakout game against the Saints. Even if Casey is on track to return, don't plan on starting him in Fantasy.
News: Houston coach Gary Kubiak said Monday that TE James Casey (chest) could return for Week 8 against Jacksonville. Casey was inactive for the Texans' last game against Tennessee on Sunday, the second straight game he's missed with a chest injury.
Analysis: Casey is unlikely to reach 100 yards in a game again this season like he did in Week 3 against New Orleans. The 27-year-old also scored a touchdown in that outing, the only one of his career. Fantasy owners should not consider him a worthwhile option while sidelined.
News: Texans TE James Casey (chest) was among the team's inactives for Week 7 at Tennessee. Lawrence Vickers will start at fullback in Casey's absence, as he has now missed two games in a row.
Analysis: Casey is only an option in very deep Fantasy leagues. Now that he is out of action, he should be stashed in those formats.
News: Texans TE James Casey (chest) did not practice Friday, but the team is listing him as a game-time decision for Week 7 at Tennessee.
Analysis: Casey hasn't had another quality performance since his breakout game in Week 3 and you can't blame the injury for that. He just isn't a reliable part of the offense right now despite the team raving about his potential. Healthy or not, Casey is not a recommended Fantasy option Week 7.
News: Houston TE James Casey continued to miss practice time with his pectoral injury as Week 7 at Tennessee could be in jeopardy. Casey has not played since Week 5 and hasn't had a catch since making one grab for 8 yards against Pittsburgh Week 4. That said, Casey caught five passes for 126 yards and a touchdown Week 3 in New Orleans. The Texans have TE Owen Daniels on the roster as the top tight end, but Tennessee allowed both Heath Miller and David Johnson to score touchdowns last week, so that could bode well for Casey, should he be able to play.
Analysis: Casey has one big game under his belt and has otherwise had just four catches for 37 yards this season for QB Matt Schaub and the Texans. Daniels is the top tight end in town and we're not even sure that Casey will be healthy enough to return after missing practice on Wednesday. Fantasy owners should not be targeting Casey as a solid Fantasy play for the Week 7 game against the Titans.
News: Texans TE James Casey was listed among the inactives for Week 6 against the Ravens. He did not practice the week leading up to Sunday due to a pectoral injury.
Analysis: Since recording 137 total yards in Week 3 against New Orleans, Casey has managed just eight yards on one touch in the past two games. Even when healthy, consider Casey as a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Houston TE James Casey is considered doubtful for Week 6 at Baltimore as he continues to deal with a pectoral injury. Casey did not practice throughout the past week and Texans coach Gary Kubiak said Casey will likely be a "weekend decision."
Analysis: Since recording 137 total yards in Week 3 against New Orleans, Casey has managed just eight yards on one touch in the past two games. He appears unlikely to play on Sunday and should not be considered a worthwhile Fantasy option against the Ravens in Week 6.
News: Texans TE James Casey (pectoral) did not practice Wednesday, but there is still a chance he plays Week 6 at Baltimore. “He did run and everything today,” coach Gary Kubiak said. “(He will) probably be a weekend decision.” Baltimore enters Sunday ranked ninth in the league against the pass, giving up 212 yards per game, and have allowed an average of three Fantasy points to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: Casey has been a Fantasy bust since his breakout performance in Week 3 against the Saints. He plays the H-back role for Houston, but he is used more as a blocker than offensive weapon. Even if Casey plays on Sunday, he is not a recommended Fantasy option.
News: Texans coach Gary Kubiak said on Monday that TE James Casey has been diagnosed with a pectoral strain. He is considered day to day. On Sunday, the Houston Chronicle had reported that Casey had suffered a torn pectoral muscle. Casey did not practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: LB Mario Williams had also suffered a pectoral injury and his indeed turned out to be a tear. Casey's injury no longer appears to be season-threatening as a result of this news. He caught five passes for 126 yards and a touchdown Week 3 at New Orleans, but has to compete for looks with Owen Daniels and Joel Dreessen, making him merely a low-end option in Fantasy even when he is healthy. Continue to monitor his situation.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports that Texans TE James Casey suffered a torn pectoral muscle in Week 5 against Oakland. He is expected to be re-evaluated.
Analysis: Casey could miss the remainder of the season as a result of the injury, though that remains to be determined. He caught five passes for 126 yards and a touchdown Week 3 at New Orleans, but has to compete for looks with Owen Daniels and Joel Dreessen, making him merely a low-end option in Fantasy even when he is healthy.
News: Houston TE James Casey was targeted twice in the Week 5 loss to the Raiders. He did not make a catch in the game. That said, Houston tight ends Joel Dreessen and Owen Daniels combined for 12 receptions for 201 yards and a touchdown in the game. Casey left the game with a pectoral injury and will be re-evaluated.
Analysis: Casey caught five passes for 126 yards and a touchdown Week 3 at New Orleans. He's combined for one catch for 8 yards in his last two games. Casey is third on the TE pecking order for Houston. Outside his one huge game, Casey has limited Fantasy value. He is not a recommended start in Week 6 at Baltimore.
News: Houston TE James Casey could be leaned on more in Week 5 against Oakland with Andre Johnson out for the game. Quarterback Matt Schaub may look to Casey and TE Owen Daniels more in the passing game with his other options being Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walter. Casey, who has never caught a pass against the Raiders in two career games, only managed one catch for 8 yards last week against Pittsburgh after going for 126 yards and a touchdown Week 3 at New Orleans.
Analysis: Casey faces an Oakland team in Week 5 that have been allowing the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. Only one TE has scored -- Scott Chandler Week 2 -- against the Raiders this season. Just last week, New England's Rob Gronkowski managed just one catch for 15 yards. Casey certainly has the ability to have a huge game, but we expect the Texans to run the ball against the poor run defense of the Raiders. Casey is just a low-end Fantasy option as a last-resort injury replacement for the Week 5 game.
News: Texans TE James Casey was back to obscurity in Week 4 against the Steelers. He had one catch for 8 yards and no carries. In Week 3 at New Orleans, Casey had 126 receiving yards on five catches with a touchdown. He also had one carry for 11 yards.
Analysis: Casey has minimal Fantasy value in the majority of leagues. His performance in Week 3 against the Saints was nice, but this is more of what to expect. Now, he could be asked to step up with Andre Johnson (hamstring) hurt, but we're not counting on Casey to be much of a playmaker. Ignore him in all leagues in Week 5 against Oakland.
News: A day after his breakout performance against the Saints, Texans coach Gary Kubiak raved about TE James Casey on Monday. "He is turning into a heckuva player," Kubiak said. He added that the Texans "will always have some wrinkles for (Casey)" in the playbook. Kubiak also said that Casey is "obviously a threat for us running the ball."
Analysis: Casey has taken on the role of being a H-back for the Texans, much like he did in college at Rice. It's just that the Texans didn't have a need for him on offense until Week 3 since the matchups against the linebackers worked in Casey's favor. But it does sound as though Houston might keep Casey involved moving forward, so consider using a flier on him in deeper Fantasy formats, especially since he has TE eligibility in Fantasy. Although, he is probably going to find it difficult to repeat his success in Week 4 against a very good Steelers defense, so maybe now is not the time to activate him in Fantasy just yet.
News: Texans tight end-fullback James Casey, who entered the game with just 29 yards on three catches, had a career performance Week 3 at New Orleans. He had 126 receiving yards -- second-most on the team to Andre Johnson -- on five catches. He also scored a touchdown on a diving 26-yard grab in the fourth quarter. As for rushing the ball, he had one carry for 11 yards.
Analysis: Casey technically started the game at fullback, but he has been a tight end for most of his career and is clearly more of a factor in the passing game than the running game. Though Owen Daniels, the team's starting tight end, is a pretty good pass-catcher in his own right, the Texans have room in their offense for another underneath option. Casey might fit the bill. You wouldn't want to overvalue him based on this one performance, especially since not every game figures to be a shootout for the Texans, but if you're in need of a second tight end, Casey is worth a look. Unfortunately, the Texans have a tough matchup Week 4 against the Steelers.
News: Houston TE James Casey had a nice game on Sunday of Week 1 against the Colts. With the Texans winning 34-7, Casey led all Houston tight ends with three catches for 29 yards. He had a long grab of 13 yards and was targeted three times.
Analysis: Casey might be good for a catch or two per game and he is certain to find the end zone at times this season for the Texans. That said, unless something changes he is behind Owen Daniels on the depth chart. Casey is just a low-end option not recommended for Week 2 at Miami in Fantasy play.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Texans TE James Casey could be Houston's replacement for fullback Vonta Leach in the event Leach isn't re-signed following the lockout being lifted. “Everyone wants Vonta back, and he wants to be here. But we all know this is a business, and you never know what’s going to happen,” Casey said. “That’s not something I can control. But it’s my job to be ready when they need me, regardless of what position it is, and I will be prepared. I want to get on the field to help my team win. If you’re not working to become a starter, you’re working to be starting a new career.”
Analysis: Casey packed on 10 pounds of muscle this offseason just in case he has to move to fullback. Casey played all over the place during his college days at Rice and was quite an offensive weapon. However, he has been buried on the TE depth chart in Houston behind Owen Daniels and Joel Dreessen. "I’ve been working my tail off since I got here, and I want to get on the field any way I can, no matter what it takes,” he said. “My first two years, I pictured myself as a tight end catching passes all over the field, but maybe I was a little naive. When you get to the NFL, there are so many great players, you might not have a lot of balls coming your way. So you have to work extra hard to make yourself as valuable as you can.” Casey might actually see more touches as a fullback, but he still probably won't be a featured part of the Texans' offense. Casey will not be worth drafting in Fantasy.
News: Texans TE James Casey is progressing well after undergoing surgery last month to replace a torn labrum in his shoulder. “It wasn’t a complete dislocation but it would shift out of place," Casey said Wednesday. "When it did that I’d get dead arm, where I couldn’t feel for a minute or two.”
Analysis: Keep an eye on Casey's recovery and hope he is OK for the start of the 2011 season. His Fantasy value could improve if Owen Daniels leaves as a free agent, but if Daniels comes back then Casey's value is limited. He is not worth drafting in the majority of leagues.
News: Second-year Texans TE James Casey finished the season with a career-high eight catches and started four games, after not starting a game in his rookie season in 2009. “I felt like I had a really good year,” Casey said. “I played a lot of special teams.”
Analysis: Although Casey saw a boost in numbers, his overall production was limited to special teams with the solid play of Owen Daniels and emergence of Joel Dreesen, who saw most of the action over Casey when Daniels missed time. Heading into 2011, Casey should be ignored in Fantasy play, even though he will be a solid contributor for Houston in areas that leagues do not reward.
News: Second-year Texans TE James Casey made his first NFL catch Sunday against San Diego in Week 9. Casey, seeing increased playing time with Owen Daniels (hamstring) out, had four catches for 48 yards. He was used as the No. 2 TE behind Joel Dreessen. Casey had six targets in the game.
Analysis: Casey is worth keeping an eye on if Daniels remains out, but Dreessen has more Fantasy value going forward. Still, it's good to see Casey finally get involved, and he might be worth using in deep formats if he continues to see a healthy amount of targets.
News: The Texans run a number of two-TE formations, increasing the likelihood that TE James Casey will see substantial playing time if Owen Daniels (hamstring) is out for the Week 9 game against the Chargers. "If I get opportunities, I have to show them that I'm prepared (to) make plays," Casey said."If he gets more time this week, I wouldn't be surprised to see him make some plays," coach Gary Kubiak said.
Analysis: Casey will still be a minor contributor to the Texans cause in the stat column even if Daniels is out. Continue to ignore him in all Fantsay formats.
News: Texans Gary Kubiak said WR Andre Johnson suffered a mild ankle sprain in Week 2 against the Redskins and is listed as day to day. TE James Casey also sprained his ankle. Kubiak classified his injury as more severe than Johnson’s.
Analysis: Casey is not high enough on the depth chart to matter in most Fantasy leagues. As long as Owen Daniels remains healthy, that should be the case. He should not be owned in Fantasy.
News: Texans TE James Casey might be a lock to make the roster after his performance in Thursday's preseason finale against the Bucs. Casey, who was starting for the injured Owen Daniels, set a team record for receptions in a game during the preseason with eight catches for 81 yards. Unfortunately, none of his receptions came from starting QB Matt Schaub, who was a healthy scratch.
Analysis: Casey had just six catches for 64 yards last season as a rookie, but this kid can play. Back during his college days at Rice, he was an important part of a spread-offense attack and racked up some pretty impressive numbers. He just isn't your typical tight end. He is more of an H-back player, which really doesn't exist in the NFL. Daniels is expected to be ready for Week 1, so Casey doesn't have much Fantasy appeal.
News:James Casey, entering his second season, is competing for time at tight end at Texans training camp, and he's also working with the fullbacks and deep snappers, trying to catch coach Gary Kubiak's eye with his versatility. He says got the playbook down now and feels much more at ease in his second training camp. Kubiak has noticed. "When you're starting to put a roster together of people you count on, he's the poster child of that," Kubiak said. "He's got a situation where he's got a chance to prove that he could start in this league. There is a lot to expect from James, from a lot of people around here. And I know he realizes that, too."
Analysis: We don't see Casey as a viable Fantasy option right now, but if he were to land regular playing time in the future he would be a candidate to help out thanks to athleticism.
News: The official team website for the Texans reports that tight ends James Casey and rookie Garrett Graham worked extensively with the first-team offense Wednesday. They also worked with the second and third teams, as they were the only two tight ends available for practice. "James and Graham did a hell of a job," coach Gary Kubiak said. "For two tight ends to get through two hours like that, (it was) very impressive." Casey, entering his second season out of Rice, has been making the most of increased repetitions as a result of injuries to Owen Daniels, Joel Dreessen and Anthony Hill. "James has had probably as good an offseason as anybody," Kubiak said. "With our tight end situation, he's getting an excellent opportunity to prove he can start in this league. If he keeps going, he's got an opportunity to be a heck of player." Kubiak said that he would like to give Casey some reps at fullback this offseason when all the tight ends are healthy.
Analysis: It sounds like Casey could be making a play to start if Daniels (knee) remains limited in training camp. Keep an eye on Casey, but he has minimal Fantasy value unless Daniels is out for an extended period of time.
News: Texans head coach Gary Kubiak told the official team site Wednesday that TE Owen Daniels "will not be participating in training camp." Additionally, reserve TE Anthony Hill will also not be expected to be ready for camp; both tight ends are recovering from torn ACLs. That leaves a motley crew of veterans Joel Dreessen and Michael Gaines, second-year tight end James Casey and rookie tight end Garrett Graham to compete during camp.
Analysis: We believe Graham's presence will push at least two of the Texans' backup tight ends down the depth chart and another off the roster. Fortunately for Fantasy owners, the likes of Dreessen, Casey and Gaines aren't considered reliable options in the first place. Keep all three of those guys off of rosters for now while Graham is worth a draft choice late in dynasty/keeper leagues and in the middle of rookie-only formats.
News: Texans TE James Casey has fully recovered from a cartilage injury that forced a knee scope following a Week 8 win at Buffalo last year. "I'm in the best shape I've ever been, and I'm as strong as I've ever been," Casey said after Tuesday's OTA workout.
Analysis: Casey will compete with rookie Garrett Graham, Joel Dreessen and Anthony Hill for backup duties behind Owen Daniels, but Daniels is coming off a torn ACL. Keep an eye on how Casey does this offseason because he could be worth a late-round pick in deep seasonal leagues if Daniels is slow in his recovery.
News: The Houston Texans chose Wisconsin TE Garrett Graham in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, reuniting him with fellow Wisconsin alum Owen Daniels (the two played together Daniels' senior season). Graham had 51 receptions for 624 yards and seven touchdowns for the Badgers last season and has been compared favorably to Daniels. "We really like this young man," head coach Gary Kubiak said. "... [He] played a lot of good football there at Wisconsin. Owen (Daniels) spoke up for him, so that was good enough for me. So there's an excellent opportunity for him right now with our team, because some of our guys are fixing to miss some time as we go through the offseason."
Analysis: Obviously, Graham's presence will push at least two of the Texans' backup tight ends down the depth chart and another off the roster. Fortunately for Fantasy owners, the likes of Joel Dreessen, James Casey and Anthony Hill aren't considered reliable options in the first place. Keep all three of those guys off of rosters.
News: Texans RB Vonta Leach, WR Andre Davis, WR Glenn Martinez, TE James Casey and QB Rex Grossman all dressed for Houston's Week 16 win at Miami but failed to record an offensive stat.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers for Week 17 vs. New England.
News: Texans WR Glenn Martinez, RB Vonta Leach, TE Bryan Pittman, TE James Casey and QB Rex Grossman didn't record offensive statistics Week 15 at St. Louis.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Houston TE James Casey, TE Anthony Hill and backup QB Rex Grossman all did not factor into the Week 14 win over the Seahawks. None received stats in the game.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in the majority of leagues when active. Keep them all reserved in Week 15 at St. Louis.
News: The Texans had five players dress Sunday at the Jaguars who did not record an offensive stat with TE Anthony Hill, WR Andre Davis, WR Glenn Martinez, TE James Casey and RB Arian Foster.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in the majority of leagues when active. Keep them all reserved in Week 14 against Seattle.
News: Colts TE James Casey had two catches for 17 yards Sunday against the Colts.
Analysis: Casey is a low-end Fantasy TE and has minimal Fantasy value. Don't plan on using him in Week 13 against Jacksonville.
News: Houston TE James Casey, now the starter with Owen Daniels injured, caught two passes on Monday night in a loss to Tennessee for 33 yards. Casey got his catches out of the way early in the game and really didn't show up in the second half. Casey's long grab went for 32 yards.
Analysis: Casey made his first big impact on the passing game as a professional on Monday night. Casey has loads of talent and is going to become a better Fantasy option the more he gels with QB Matt Schaub. Casey is definitely worth a look off waivers if you need an injury-replacement tight end option in Week 12 against Indianapolis.
News: Houston TE James Casey (knee) went through a full week of practice and should be able to start the Monday night game against the Titans in Week 11.
Analysis: The Texans plan to get Casey more involved in the offense. "(Casey) can do some things for us offensively," coach Gary Kubiak said. "He'll become a big part of what we're doing here over the course of the next seven weeks." If you're looking for a deep sleeper at the tight end position for Week 11, you've found one. Casey is worth a look off waivers assuming you have the roster space, not to mention the need for a useful tight end.
News: When the Texans return from their bye with a game against Tennessee next Monday night, they hope to have versatile rookie TE James Casey back to contribute at the position after arthroscopic knee surgery. Casey is expected to help Joel Dreessen and Anthony Hill fill in the hole left behind from Owen Daniels' season-ending knee surgery. Casey has appeared in all but one game this season and has become a key special teams player for the Texans. He injured his knee Oct. 4 against the Raiders, but played the next four games before opting for surgery to repair damaged cartilage. "There's no doubt in my mind that I'll play," Casey said Monday after returning to practice. "It's going to take something very severe to keep me from playing."
Analysis: The Texans plan to get Casey more involved in the offense. "(Casey) can do some things for us offensively," coach Gary Kubiak said. "He'll become a big part of what we're doing here over the course of the next seven weeks." If you're looking for a deep sleeper at the tight end position for Week 11, you've found one. Casey is worth a look off waivers assuming you have the roster space, not to mention the need for a useful tight end.
News: The Texans have announced the following players are inactive for Week 9 at Indianapolis: WR Glenn Martinez, DB Fred Bennett, DB Dominique Barber, DL DelJuan Robinson, TE James Casey and DL Frank Okam.
Analysis: None of the players listed are expected to have any real Fantasy value this season. They should be left on waivers until further notice.
News: Houston DB Dominique Barber (ankle) and TE James Casey (knee) have been ruled out of the team's Week 9 game against the Colts.
Analysis: Neither Casey nor Barber are relevant Fantasy options and they can continue to be ignored in all formats.
News: Texans rookie TE James Casey will miss at least one game after undergoing a procedure to fix a meniscus injury suffered at Buffalo in Week 8. Casey caught two passes for 14 yards in the game before leaving with the injury; he was replacing TE Owen Daniels, who tore his ACL in the game.
Analysis: Casey was a decent option to replace Daniels in Fantasy play, but that's out the window now that he's hurt too. Casey remains limited to the deepest of dynasty/keeper league rosters at this time.
News: Houston TE James Casey caught two passes for 14 yards during a Week 8 win at Buffalo. Casey saw an increase in plays his way with starter Owen Daniels leaving early due to injury.
Analysis: Casey had played in seven games this season before seeing his first two grabs Week 8 at Buffalo. This increase in production doesn't suggest that you should pick him up now. Daniels might play Week 9 at Indianapolis and even if he doesn't, Casey won't do enough to be worth using in Fantasy play.
News: Walking on crutches and with his head hung low, Owen Daniels feared his season might be over after the Houston Texans' star TE hurt his right knee on Sunday. "I'm concerned," Daniels said following a 31-10 victory. "It doesn't feel good." Daniels, who entered the game leading NFL tight ends with 497 yards receiving, said he's scheduled to have tests on Monday to determine the severity of the injury. Coach Gary Kubiak didn't sound optimistic when discussing the player's injury. and the Houston Chronicle reports Daniels could have a torn ACL. "It doesn't look good," Kubiak said. "Obviously, (trainers) feel like he may have done some damage. I better be careful, but it does not look good." Daniels was hurt on Houston's second possession when he was running a route and caught his foot in the turf. He said it's possible a defender might have bumped or grabbed him just as he was making his cut. He went down and lay on the field for several minutes before he was helped up by Texans trainers and unable to put any weight on his right leg.
Analysis: Daniels has 40 catches on the season for 519 yards and five touchdowns. He is among the league's best tight ends in Fantasy play and should be active every week when healthy. The injury also comes at a critical time for the fourth-year player, who is in the final year of his contract. "Yeah, thanks for reminding me," Daniels said, about his contract status. "Worst-case scenario, I'll definitely be ready to go next year." If Daniels is out as expected, Joel Dreessen will move up a spot. Rookie James Casey, who caught the first two passes of his career, will become the second tight end. Rookie Anthony Hill, who was inactive, will be part of the game-day roster because offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan likes to use three tight end formations.
News: Texans RB Ryan Moats, TE James Casey, TE Joel Dreessen, FB Vonta Leach and backup QB Rex Grossman didn't record offensive stats Week 7 vs. the 49ers.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in Week 8 against Buffalo. Ignore them in all leagues.
News: Texans WR Andre Davis, RB Ryan Moats, TE James Casey, TE Joel Dreessen and QB Rex Grossman didn't record offensive stats Week 6 at Cincinnati.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in Week 7 against San Francisco. Ignore them in all leagues.
News: Texans WR Andre Davis, RB Ryan Moats, TE James Casey and QB Rex Grossman didn't record offensive stats Week 5 at Arizona.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Houston TE James Casey has been listed as questionable for the team's Week 5 game at Arizona with a knee injury.
Analysis: Casey is yet to record an offensive stat this season and remains a player not worth owning in any Fantasy format.
News: Texans QB Rex Grossman, RB Chris Brown, RB Vonta Leach, WR Andre Davis and TE James Casey did not record an offensive statistic in Week 4 against Oakland.
Analysis: Aside from Brown, none of the players on this list figure to have much Fantasy appeal in the near future. Until their role changes, they should be left on the waiver wire in all leagues.
News:Rex Grossman, Joel Dressen, Glenn Martinez, Ryan Moats and James Casey did not record an offensive stat for the Texans Week 3 against the Jaguars.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value heading into Week 4 against the Raiders.
News: Texans WR Glenn Martinez, RB Ryan Moats, FB Vonta Leach, TE James Casey, QB Rex Grossman and RB Anthony Hill all dressed for Houston's Week 2 win over the Titans but didn't record an offensive stat.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value heading into Week 3 vs. Jacksonville.
News: Texans WR Jacoby Jones, WR Glenn Martinez, TE Joel Dreessen, TE John Casey, QB Rex Grossman and RB Ryan Moats all dressed for Week 1's loss to the Jets, but failed to record a stat.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value heading into Week 2 at Tennessee.
News: Rookie James Casey was drafted to play tight end for the Texans. Less than three weeks into camp he's working at that position but also learning long-snapping and filling in at fullback because of an injury to backup Boomer Grigsby. His versatility is no surprise after he played tight end, fullback and quarterback as well as returned punts at Rice. And that came after he spent three years playing professional baseball. "His value to the team right now is his flexibility, all the things he can do," coach Gary Kubiak said. "Obviously the kid can handle quite a bit."
Analysis: In two seasons at Rice, Casey had 1,914 yards receiving, 392 yards rushing, threw two touchdown passes and had 117 return yards. The Texans have a crowded house at tight end, which could mean limited playing time for Casey in 2009. Fantasy owners should only look at Casey with a middle- to late-round pick in rookie-only drafts this summer.
News: The Houston Chronicle reports Texans TE Owen Daniels will skip the remaining OTA workouts this offseason because of a contract dispute. Daniels, who had participated in the first three weeks of OTAs, did not show up to the team's voluntary workout Tuesday. "Obviously we're in the middle of negotiations," GM Rick Smith said. "He's well within in his rights not to be here. We wish he were working out like he had been, but we understand it. Every day he is out here he's getting better. Things like this have a way of working themselves out." Daniels, a fourth-round pick in 20! 06, is a restricted free agent. He has yet to sign the one-year, $2.7 million tender that he was offered.
Analysis: Coach Gary Kubiak split the majority of repetitions in practice Tuesday between Joel Dreessen and rookies Anthony Hill and James Casey with Daniels out. None of these players are worth drafting in seasonal leagues unless Daniels is out for a lengthy period of time due to a holdout.
News: The Texans drafted TE James Casey from Rice in the fifth round of the NFL Draft on Sunday with overall pick No. 152. The Texans already drafted Anthony Hill in the fourth round with the hope both will compete with starter Owen Daniels.
Analysis: Casey could also be shifted to H-back and be used as a blocking FB. He has minimal Fantasy value and should not be drafted in any leagues. His role for Houston will be as a blocker and on special teams.
