News: While the Vikings will deal with receiver Jerome Simpson missing the first three games of the year, they're ultimately happy with his arrival in town. Minnesota's been looking for a legit deep-speed receiver for several years, and according to offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave, it has one in Simpson. "He's a legitimate split end," Musgrave told KSTP-AM. "He has speed to threaten down the field and also get in and out of breaks and beat man coverage."
Analysis: The Vikings should benefit from Simpson as he offers a big, athletic receiving target that they didn't quite have with Michael Jenkins last season. He's got some potential to serve as a quality reserve for Fantasy owners -- not a reliable No. 3 receiver -- making him worth a late pick in drafts. Just remember, he'll miss the first three games of the year, so if you draft him you have to commit to keeping him for a little while. If you're not ready to do that, then look elsewhere for Fantasy help.
News: FOX Sports reports that the Vikings have signed wideout Jerome Simpson to a one-year deal. The signing comes the day after it was reported that Simpson would be suspended for three games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Simpson was arrested and pled guilty to drug charges March 1. He was sentenced to 15 days in jail and three years probation. Simpson played the 2011 season under the auspices of the drug charge yet finished with career-highs with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: The Vikings should benefit from Simpson as he offers a big, athletic receiving target that they didn't quite have with Michael Jenkins last season. He's got some potential to serve as a quality reserve for Fantasy owners -- not a reliable No. 3 receiver -- making him worth a late pick in drafts. Just remember, he'll miss the first three games of the year, so if you draft him you have to commit to keeping him for a little while. If you're not ready to do that, then look elsewhere for Fantasy help.
News: ESPN reports that the NFL will suspend wide receiver Jerome Simpson three games under the league's substance abuse policy. Simpson was arrested and pled guilty to drug charges March 1. He was sentenced to 15 days in jail and three years probation. Simpson played the 2011 season under the auspices of the drug charge yet finished with career-highs with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Simpson is on the hunt for a new place to play, with Minnesota and St. Louis two possible destinations along with a reunion in Cincinnati as a possibility. Knowing he'll be out the start the season stings his limited Fantasy value. Once he signs somewhere, figure him to be a late-round flier in deeper Fantasy leagues as a reserve wideout.
News: Free-agent receiver Jerome Simpson, who pled guilty on drug charges March 1, received 15 days in jail and three years of probation. Prosecutors recommended 60 days in jail for Simpson. Simpson was indicted on a drug charge back in January, resulting from Simpson being "detained and questioned" by Kenton County, Kentucky cops after his girlfriend signed for a package that had more than two pounds of marijuana inside. Police allegedly found more than six pounds of marijuana inside Simpson's home and stated that the delivery was "a controlled delivery to a house that was set up as a distribution network." Simpson played the 2011 season under the auspices of the drug charge.
Analysis: Simpson recently visited the Rams, so teams are starting to take a look at him even with this situation. He posted career-highs in 2011 with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns and could be a nice No. 2 receiver for a team. A suspension is likely for Simpson, so continue to monitor what develops. Depending on where he signs, he could be worth a late-round pick in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Wide receiver Jerome Simpson pleaded guilty to a felony drug charge stemming from an incident where he received a package of marijuana last September. As per the plea deal, he is subject to 60 days in jail with work release, three years of probation and 200 hours of community service. It is believed that this will not slow down his NFL career. Simpson is a free agent this offseason.
Analysis: Simpson posted career-highs in 2011 with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns and could be a nice No. 2 receiver for a team who will take a chance on Simpson. Though it took him a while to develop in the pros, he offers big size and some good speed. Fantasy owners shouldn't spend anything more than a late-round pick on him; a suspension for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy could be around the corner.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that WR Jerome Simpson was indicted Thursday on charges that he was trafficking marijuana over eight ounces and less than five pounds. The charge is a Class D felony that could lead to a punishment of one to five years in prison. Simpson posted career-highs in 2011 with 50 catches for 725 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Simpson is a free agent this offseason and this news will absolutely hurt his value in the NFL marketplace. Until we learn how his situation plays out with the authorities, and how his situation plays out in the NFL, Fantasy owners shouldn't spend anything more than a late-round pick on him. Even if he avoids jail time, a suspension for violating the NFL's Personal Conduct Policy could be around the corner.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson had three receptions for 33 yards during the Bengals' 31-10 loss to Houston in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Saturday. Simpson notched six targets from QB Andy Dalton as he topped double-figures in yard per catch for the second straight game (11.0).
Analysis: Simpson turned in a long gain of 16 yards, but he provided another highlight-reel play on the run. Two weeks after he dazzled onlookers with a leaping somersault into the end zone against Arizona, Simpson hurled over another defender on Saturday to keep his drive going. The 25-year-old is certainly athletic, but is not considered a reliable option as the Bengals look for A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham first. Fantasy owners should not consider Simpson worthy of a selection in most drafts for the 2012 season.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson had a decent performance in the Week 17 regular-season finale loss to the Ravens. Simpson did not catch a touchdown pass from QB Andy Dalton in the loss, but finished with five grabs for 54 yards to finish second on the team behind TE Jermaine Gresham. Simpson's longest reception went for 23 yards and he was targeted a team-high 10 times in the contest.
Analysis: Simpson had a few huge games this season for the Bengals as he finished with three 100-yard games. That said, he also wasn't the most reliable of Fantasy options as he also finished with one or fewer Fantasy point five times on the year. That is enough to make Fantasy owners crazy and we're sure he annoyed quite a few owners this season at times. Still, he's a solid No. 2 option for Dalton in the passing game. The Bengals made the playoffs, despite losing Sunday, and the receiver should be an OK Fantasy start in the playoffs. Simpson should enter next year as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy WR. He'll be worth a late-round pick on Draft Day.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson finished with five receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown during the Bengals’ 23-16 victory over Arizona in Week 16. Simpson hauled in a 19-yard pass from QB Andy Dalton for his fourth touchdown of the season. He highlighted the score by leaping from the 4-yard line, doing a somersault over a potential tackler and landing on his feet in the end zone. He collected six targets from Dalton. "One of the key parts for me was I stuck the landing," Simpson said. "I stuck the landing like a gymnast. That was probably one of the most surprising of all the plays in my career. It was pretty awesome, I thought."
Analysis: When the Bengals selected Simpson in the 2008 NFL Draft, they were banking on his tremendous athleticism. He displayed that potential in the second quarter Saturday as he turned in perhaps the touchdown catch of the season. Simpson has been overshadowed by WR A.J. Green this season and recorded more than two catches for the first time since Nov. 20. Consider him a low-end Fantasy WR option in Week 17 vs. Baltimore.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson has been one of several Bengals receivers to be limited this season following the development of rookie WR A.J. Green. In the past four games, Cincinnati wideouts tallied 37 receptions, 20 of which were caught by Green. But offensive coordinator Jay Gruden's concern wasn't with QB Andy Dalton's over-reliance on Green. "I'd probably rely on him, too," Gruden said. "We try to get him the ball as much as we can, obviously. The other guys just have to do a better job of taking advantage of opportunities."
Analysis: Simpson's next opportunity for a rebound comes against Arizona in Week 16. But he is unlikely to produce robust numbers as he has been held to less than three receptions in four consecutive games. He has scored a touchdown, but has also not topped 40 yards in that span. Simpson could see a few additional targets in Week 16 with Green dealing with a shoulder issue. Still, Simpson should be viewed only as a low-end WR option in deeper formats versus the Cardinals, who are permitting an average of 22.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson registered two catches for 14 yards during the Bengals’ 20-13 victory over St. Louis in Week 15. Simpson, who was targeted five times by QB Andy Dalton, finished with less than 40 receiving yards for the fourth straight game. His longest gain went for 10 yards.
Analysis: With A.J. Green in the lineup, Simpson has not turned in the same type of production he did earlier this year. Like most of the Bengals, Simpson is overshadowed by Green and he finished with four fewer looks than the talented rookie. Simpson was able to reach the end zone last week, but his scoring chances are expected to be limited the rest of the season. Consider him a low-end WR in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 16 vs. Arizona.
News: Since hauling in eight passes for a season-high 152 receiving yards against Baltimore in Week 11, Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson has been unable to duplicate that production recently. Entering the Bengals' upcoming matchup at St. Louis in Week 15, Simpson has recorded just four receptions in his past three games as Cincinnati star WR A.J. Green has returned to full strength. Simpson has 38 total catches this season.
Analysis: Simpson did account for the Bengals' only touchdown last Sunday in a loss to Houston as he snapped a four-game scoreless skid. But with Green back in the lineup, Simpson is not relied on much in the passing game and that could continue Sunday despite the Rams permitting an average of 23.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season. Simpson should be viewed as a low-end option in deeper formats for Week 15.
News: WR Jerome Simpson had a mostly quiet afternoon in Week 14, but he did manage to score the Bengals' only touchdown in a 20-19 loss to the Texans. Simpson was targeted six times, but he came away with only two catches, including his 17-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. He finished with a total of 38 receiving yards.
Analysis: Simpson has had a handful of big games, but for the most part, he has not produced big yardage for Fantasy owners. His touchdown in Week 14 was also his first score in five games, so he is not a big red zone threat either. Simpson remains a low-end WR heading into Week 15.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson has contributed little over the last two weeks, and a lack of targets has been to blame. With only eight targets over the last two games combined, Simpson has just 15 yards of production to show for his efforts against the Steelers and Browns. In Week 14, Simpson will face the Texans' third-ranked passing defense. Only five teams have allowed opposing wide receivers to gain less yardage than the Texans have.
Analysis: Even if Simpson gets a few more looks in Week 14, the difficulty of his matchup makes it unlikely that he will have a productive afternoon. Owners in nearly all formats should look to other WR options for the coming week.
News:Jerome Simpson was targeted three times in the Bengals' Week 13 loss to the Steelers, meaning that in both games this year against his division rival he failed to get a catch. He has one catch in three career games against the Steelers.
Analysis: Simpson will see another tough matchup in Week 14 when the Texans come to Cincy. We'd consider other options.
News:Jerome Simpson, who is active for Week 13 despite a slight knee issue, followed up a gorgeous 152-yard effort at Baltimore in Week 11 with a gross 15-yard game against the Browns in Week 12. The difference? Likely the return of A.J. Green in the Browns game, limiting his opportunities. He'll still play and be somewhat involved in Week 13 at the Steelers, but the matchup is tough. Pittsburgh has allowed just seven touchdowns to wide receivers this season, though five have been yielded in its last six games. But no wide receiver has had more than 88 receiving yards against the Steel Curtain and only five have had more than 70 yards. He didn't make a catch vs. the Steelers in Week 10 (four targets).
Analysis: On one hand, the matchup is tough and Simpson has a bad history against the Steelers (one catch in two career games). On the other hand, the Bengals are going to have to throw plenty in this one. Simpson shouldn't be considered for use in Fantasy play unless you're thin at receiver, so consider other options before making a decision.
News:Jerome Simpson followed up a gorgeous 152-yard effort at Baltimore in Week 11 with a gross 15-yard game against the Browns in Week 12. The difference? Likely the return of A.J. Green in the Browns game, limiting his opportunities. He'll still play and be somewhat involved in Week 13 at the Steelers, but the matchup is tough. Pittsburgh has allowed just seven touchdowns to wide receivers this season, though five have been yielded in its last six games. But no wide receiver has had more than 88 receiving yards against the Steel Curtain and only five have had more than 70 yards. He didn't make a catch vs. the Steelers in Week 10 (four targets). Simpson has been limited in practice this week and is listed as probable.
Analysis: On one hand, the matchup is tough and Simpson has a bad history against the Steelers (one catch in two career games). On the other hand, the Bengals are going to have to throw plenty in this one. Simpson shouldn't be considered for use in Fantasy play unless you're thin at receiver, so consider other options before making a decision.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson (knee) is listed as probable for Week 13 at Pittsburgh. The Steelers are yielding 14.8 Fantasy points per week to WRs, which is third-lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Simpson had a poor performance Week 12 against the Browns. He did leave briefly in the second half because of a knee injury, but that wasn't the reason he struggled. He just continues to be inconsistent from one week to the next. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR at best for Week 13 at Pittsburgh. Simpson was held off the stat sheet Week 10 against the Steelers.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson, who sat out practice Wednesday nursing a knee injury, returned to practice Thursday in a limited capacity. Cincinnati travels to Pittsburgh in Week 13.
Analysis: Simpson had a poor performance Week 12 against the Browns. He did leave briefly in the second half because of a knee injury, but that wasn't the reason he struggled. He just continues to be inconsistent from one week to the next. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR at best for Week 13 at Pittsburgh, if active. Simpson was held off the stat sheet Week 10 against the Steelers.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson did not practice Wednesday because of a knee injury. Cincinnati travels to Pittsburgh in Week 13.
Analysis: Simpson had a poor performance Week 12 against the Browns. He did leave briefly in the second half because of a knee injury, but that wasn't the reason he struggled. He just continues to be inconsistent from one week to the next. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR at best for Week 13 at Pittsburgh, if active. Simpson was held off the stat sheet Week 10 against the Steelers.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson once again had another disappointing performance following a 100-yard game. Simpson was held to two catches for 15 yards in a Week 12 win against the Browns after posting a career-high 152 yards in Week 11. He was targeted five times Week 12. Simpson posted 136 yards in Week 2, but followed that up with Week 3 with one catch for 6 yards. He had 101 yards in Week 6 and followed that up Week 8 with one catch for 14 yards.
Analysis: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis has talked about the inconsistency Simpson has in his game and it reared it's ugly head again. He followed up another strong performance with a disappointing outing. A.J. Green did return to the lineup in Week 12, but Simpson still had the better matchup and couldn't take advantage. Simpson left the game briefly Week 12 in the second half with a knee injury, but he finished out the game after missing a few plays. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy WR at best for Week 13 at Pittsburgh. Simpson was held off the stat sheet Week 10 against the Steelers.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson posted his third 100-yard game of the season and fifth of his career in Week 11, when he went off for a career-high 152 yards against the Ravens. Simpson now looks for another 100-yard performance in Week 12 against the Browns. Although, it's going to be a challenge. The Browns are yielding 12.4 Fantasy points per week to WRs, which is the lowest average in the NFL, and no receiver has a 100-yard game against Cleveland.
Analysis: Simpson came up big for the Bengals in Week 11 as star receiver A.J. Green sat out with a knee injury. However, this week Simpson wants Green to return or else he will see a heavy dose of shutdown corner Joe Haden. If Green is out, then Simpson's Fantasy value won't be the same. Consider Simpson at best a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson had a monster performance Week 11 at Baltimore with A.J. Green missing the game due to injury. Simpson took over for Green as QB Andy Dalton's favorite weapon in the passing game. Simpson went off for a season-high 152 yards on eight receptions in the contest. The only thing Simpson failed to do was score in the game. Simpson averaged 19 yards per catch and had a long reception of 47 yards. With Green out, Simpson was targeted a game-high 13 times by Dalton.
Analysis: Simpson was the main man for the Bengals with Green out Week 11. He and Andre Caldwell ran the show for the receivers and Simpson was fantastic. Green is expected to return Week 12 against Cleveland, however. Plus, the Browns are allowing the fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers. While that is mostly because the opposition usually chooses to run the ball down Cleveland's throats, it doesn't bode well for Simpson in the game. Expect Cincinnati's Cedric Benson to have a good game, but Simpson should be limited. Green should go back to being the top passing option for Dalton in Week 12, and Simpson should be just a No. 3 Fantasy WR, at best, for the game.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson has caught exactly four passes in the last three games for the Bengals entering Week 11 at Baltimore. Of course, two of those receptions went for touchdowns. Simpson was held off the stat sheet altogether Week 10 against Pittsburgh, and will look to do more against a very tough passing defense in the Ravens. Of course, the last time Simpson played at Baltimore, last season in January, he torched them for 12 receptions, 123 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Simpson has touchdowns in two of his last three games, but that might be tough to continue against the Ravens Week 11. Simpson may have torched them last time he played them, but the Ravens have only allowed six WR touchdowns all season and three in the last five weeks of action. We expect the Bengals to try to throw, however, as the Ravens' run defense is even better. Simpson should be a safe play as a No. 3 Fantasy WR for the Week 11 game.
News: In a Week 10 loss to the Steelers, Bengals WR Jerome Simpson was involved in the offense, getting four targets, but he came away with no receptions and no offensive yardage. It was the first time this season that Simpson failed to get a reception.
Analysis: Simpson has had a pair of games with 100-plus receiving yards this season, but otherwise, his production has been sparse. Owners cannot count on him to put up big yardage totals, though as one of QB Andy Dalton's favorite targets, he could score a touchdown in any given week. However, with a difficult Week 11 matchup against the Ravens on the horizon, Fantasy owners should view Simpson as a low-end No. 3 WR or flex option at best.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson will seek to push his touchdown run to three consecutive games during Week 10 against Pittsburgh. Simpson has registered a touchdown catch in his past two games and is one score away from matching his career total entering the season (three). The 25-year-old has hauled in just four passes, including one in Week 8, during the two-game stretch and two of them have been for touchdowns.
Analysis: Simpson is looking to accomplish a feat fellow WR A.J. Green did from Weeks 5-8. (The Bengals were idle in Week 7.) Simpson certainly doesn't get the fanfare -- or yards -- as Green, but he has been a useful option for rookie QB Andy Dalton when defenses focus on Green. The Steelers have been tough against receivers, permitting an average of just 14 Fantasy points per game this season, but have surrendered a passing touchdown in five straight contests. Consider Simpson a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 10.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson had a nice game on Sunday of Week 9 at Tennessee. Simpson came down with a touchdown reception in the third quarter as he hauled in a 15-yard TD pass from QB Andy Dalton. Simpson caught the pass before the end zone and stretched his arm into pay dirt as he was being tackled for the touchdown. Simpson, who recorded a TD catch Week 8 in Seattle as well, finished the game with three catches for 43 yards. His long reception was 18 yards in the contest for the Bengals and he was targeted by Dalton 10 times to lead all receivers in the game.
Analysis: Simpson is definitely gaining Fantasy steam as he's recorded touchdown receptions in back-to-back contests. Simpson has been a solid No. 2 receiver for the rookie Dalton this season behind A.J. Green. That said, Cincinnati faces the Steelers in Week 10 and they will certainly pose the biggest challenge to date for Simpson and the Bengals. Entering Week 9, no team was allowing fewer Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers than were the Steelers. In fact, no receiver has gone for over 82 yards against them all year and that includes Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald and Wes Welker. We consider Simpson no better than an injury or bye-week replacement option for Week 10 against Pittsburgh with that tough matchup.
News: Bengals receiver Jerome Simpson enters Week 9 at Tennessee coming off scoring his first touchdown of the season against the Seahawks in Seattle Week 8. Simpson only caught one pass in that game for 14 yards and the score. Previously, however, Simpson racked up 101 yards on six catches in Week 6 before the bye against the Colts. In fact, Simpson has two 100-yard games this season for the Bengals with QB Andy Dalton at the helm. Simpson is the No. 2 receiver for the Bengals behind rookie A.J. Green. He has only faced the Titans once in his career and he did not make a catch in that game.
Analysis: Simpson has been fairly inconsistent this season with the rookie QB throwing the passes. That said, he's the veteran with Green the rookie receiver. Simpson will constantly be involved in the offense and that is good for his value. That said, the Bengals play a Titans defense that is allowing the sixth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers. In fact, outside of giving up three touchdowns to the Steelers Week 5, the Titans have only allowed one touchdown to a WR all season and that was Matt Willis back in Week 3 for Denver. We consider Simpson no better than an injury or bye-week replacement option for Week 9.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson only had one catch in Week 8 against the Seahawks, but he made it count. He caught a 14-yard touchdown pass from QB Andy Dalton in the first quarter for his first score of the year. He was targeted twice in the 34-12 win.
Analysis: After posting his second 100-yard game his last time out, Simpson did put up a ton of yardage on Sunday but finding the end zone definitely helped Fantasy owners. He is developing into a nice No. 2 option to A.J. Green in the passing game and should only continue to progress at age 25. Keep an eye on him going forward and consider Simpson as a low-end No. 3/high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR for Week 9 against the Titans.
News: After posting his second 100-yard performance of the season his last time out, Bengals WR Jerome Simpson will be looking for more success in Week 8 against the Seahawks. Seattle ranks 20th in the league against the pass, giving up just under 250 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: While Simpson has yet to find the end zone so far this season, he is proving to be a solid option for QB Andy Dalton behind A.J. Green and Jermaine Gresham in Cincinnati's passing game. He has been targeted 41 times through the first six games and is averaging 16 yards per catch. He should be in for another productive performance with the way Seattle has struggled against the pass so consider Simpson as a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 8.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson recorded his second 100-yard game of the season Week 6 against the Colts. Simpson caught six passes on nine targets for 101 yards -- all team-highs for the game. His other 100-yard performance came in Week 2 against Denver. Unfortunately, Simpson still doesn't have a touchdown on the season.
Analysis: Although Simpson has just 22 catches through six games, he has been targeted 41 times, so rookie QB Andy Dalton is looking for him. Simpson finally seems to be getting back on track after it seemed he was distracted for a few games because of some off-the-field issues. The Bengals are on a bye Week 7 before returning to action Week 8 against the Seahawks. Simpson will remain a low-end Fantasy option in Week 8.
News: WR Jerome Simpson and the Bengals welcome in the Colts for a Week 6 showdown. Simpson hasn't been performing well as of late, but Week 6 presents a favorable matchup. The Colts are allowing WRs to average 26.4 Fantasy points per week, which is seventh highest in the NFL. WRs have also totaled seven touchdowns in five games against the Colts.
Analysis: Simpson's season has hit a road block after his 136-yard performance in Week 2 against the Broncos. He definitely seems affected by some ongoing legal issues, but he has progressed the last few weeks, so there could be some hope he gets back on track in Week 6. The Colts have allowed two secondary receivers -- Preston Parker and Steve Breaston -- to score in 2011, so Simpson could be in for a decent week. It's just that he is more of a desperation Fantasy start.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson caught four passes for 40 yards in a 30-20 win over the Jaguars in Week 5. Simpson was tied for second on the team in targets with seven, but for the fourth time in five games this year, he failed to exceed 50 receiving yards. He also has yet to score a touchdown this season.
Analysis: Simpson's quarterback, Andy Dalton, has been getting him involved in the offense, as he has been targeted 32 times over the first five weeks. Simpson has only hauled in a catch on half of those targets, so he is not getting much production out of his chances. Even with a good Week 6 matchup against the Colts, Simpson is nothing more than a low-end option in Fantasy.
News: After hauling in four catches for 136 yards in Week 2 against the Broncos, Bengals WR Jerome Simpson has been quiet in his last two games. Simpson has made just four catches for 32 yards against the 49ers and Bills combined. In Week 5, he will face a Jaguars defense that has been particularly tough on wide receivers. Only the Titans, Jets, Bengals and Steelers have allowed wide receivers to amass fewer Fantasy points on a per-week basis.
Analysis: Bengals QB Andy Dalton ranks 24th in the league in pass attempts, so there will be limited opportunities for his receiving corps. Factor in that Simpson will be sharing targets with A.J. Green, Jermaine Gresham and Andre Caldwell, and there is little reason to rely on Simpson to have a productive day against the Jags. He is merely an option for owners in the deepest of leagues.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson posted three catches for 26 yards during the Bengals' 23-20 victory over Buffalo in Week 4 on Sunday. Simpson, who averaged 8.7 yards per reception (fifth-best on the team), collected three targets from Cincinnati QB Andy Dalton.
Analysis: Simpson rebounded from a lowly one-reception outing against San Francisco in Week 3 and collected 8.7 yards per catch in Sunday's game. The 25-year-old has been bothered by some issues off the field, but was back in the starting lineup Sunday. He has now amassed 12 receptions for 212 yards in four games this season . With A.J. Green being utilized as the main receiving threat, Simpson will remain a low-end option for Week 5.
News: After a sterling 136-yard performance during Week 2, Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson was limited to six yards last Sunday in a loss to San Francisco. Simpson, who is in his fourth NFL season, was active for the game despite missing practice with off-field issues earlier in the week. However, he was held to his lowest reception total since last October when he failed to catch a pass against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Simpson seemed noticeably distracted during his Week 3 matchup with the 49ers and was targeted only four times by Bengals QB Andy Dalton. He practiced as normal on Wednesday as he looks to put the trouble behind him -- for now. The Bills are allowing an average of 24.8 Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers, but Fantasy owners should be wary of utilizing Simpson in Week 4 as he might still be bothered on the field.
News: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said WR Jerome Simpson , who has been involved in a marijuana scandal since Wednesday, will be back practicing as normal this week. Lewis believes being around teammates will be positive during Simpson's ordeal. "It's a good thing," Lewis said. "He's got to get back after it and have a good week of preparation. And he ought to."
Analysis: Simpson was active Sunday against the 49ers despite excused from practice late in the week to deal with his personal matter. However, he didn't start and made just one catch for 6 yards. However, if Simpson gets back into his routine this week, then he will likely start Sunday against the Bills and could be ready to make an impact again. However, he remains just a low-end Fantasy start heading into Week 4.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson was listed as active for Week 3 against San Francisco. However, Andre Caldwell got the start. Simpson finished the game with just one catch for 6 yards playing amid his on-going legal matter.
Analysis: The Bengals released a statement on Sunday saying that Simpson resumed team activities on Friday and, after evaluating his readiness, the coaching staff determined to activate him. However, it was Caldwell who was the team's primary receiver, getting targeted 12 times. TE Jermaine Gresham followed with eight targets and follow wide receiver A.J. Green had five targets. While there is room for Simpson to be a significant contributor with Jordan Shipley out for the season, his shaky status going into Week 4 against Buffalo makes him a player to avoid where possible.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson will play on Sunday vs. the 49ers despite not practicing on Thursday or Friday, ESPN reports. Earlier this week police found illegal drugs delivered to and in Simpson's house; no arrests were made.
Analysis: Simpson will take on a 49ers pass defense that has allowed the most Fantasy points to opposing wide receivers after being ripped apart in Week 2 against the Cowboys. In that game, San Francisco allowed 289 yards to Cowboys receivers and three touchdowns. They have allowed five touchdowns to receivers through two games. That all sounds great but Simpson will only benefit if he plays and gets lots of opportunities to play well. We wouldn't risk it with Simpson this week.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson, who emerged at the center of a marijuana scandal Wednesday night, was not at practice for the second consecutive day Friday. Head coach Marvin Lewis said his absence is excused. Now having missed two days of practice and future status unknown, it appears doubtful he'll play Sunday against the 49ers. "We'll see. We're still taking to people and figuring out what the best thing is for Jerome," coach Marvin Lewis said of Simpson's status for Sunday. He is officially listed as questionable.
Analysis: Simpson appears to be in some serious trouble and has bigger issues to deal with than beating the 49ers. Expect him to miss Week 3. As for his long-term future, no one can say for sure if he'll play soon or play again this season. If you added Simpson off waivers this week, you might want to replace him with someone else who is still out there.
News: WR Jerome Simpson and OL Anthony Collins were detained by police Wednesday night when authorities investigated a package filled with 2.5 pounds of marijuana delivered to Simpson's house with both players present, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. Neither was arrested. The Bengals said they were aware of the reports but had no further comment. Simpson was excused from practice Thursday. “I’ve been appraised of the situation for a few days now and unfortunately Anthony’s name got put into it for no reason," coach Marvin Lewis said. "It was at Jerome’s house and it’s an investigation that’s going on. He’s cooperating and doing what he can to help in the investigation.”
Analysis: If anything comes of this alleged incident, Simpson might have to face some disciplinary action. However, we expect him to be on the field in Week 3 against the 49ers, barring any last-second changes. After two weeks, the Niners have allowed the most Fantasy points to opposing wide receivers after being ripped apart in Week 2 against the Cowboys. In that game, San Francisco allowed 289 yards to Cowboys receivers and three touchdowns. They have allowed five touchdowns to receivers through two games. Far from being a must-start in Fantasy, Simpson could be considered a viable No. 4 WR option given the matchup.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson may have a favorable matchup ahead of him in Week 3 against the 49ers. After two weeks, the Niners have allowed the most Fantasy points to opposing wide receivers after being ripped apart in Week 2 against the Cowboys. In that game, San Francisco allowed 289 yards to Cowboys receivers and three touchdowns. They have allowed five touchdowns to receivers through two games
Analysis: Simpson has had four catches in each of his first two games. However, in Week 2 against Denver, he broke out for 136 receiving yards (thanks mostly to a long 84-yarder). Far from being a must-start in Fantasy, he could be considered a viable No. 4 WR option given the matchup.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson caught an 84-yard strike from rookie QB Andy Dalton in Week 2 against Denver, which is one of the longest receptions in team history. Simpson was targeted nine times on the day, managing to haul in four passes for 136 yards. The Bengals would end up losing the game, 22-24, despite Simpson's big day.
Analysis: Simpson has been playing well for the Bengals and seems to be a nice running mate with rookie A.J. Green. The Broncos were banged up on defense, but Simpson made some big plays. Looking towards Week 3, Cincinnati hosts San Francisco, a team that had trouble defending the pass on Sunday against Dallas. Fantasy owners should view Simpson as a flex option at this point in the season, but as Dalton grows as a passer, Simpson's value will rise.
News: Over his last three starts Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson has averaged 97 yards per game. Granted he had just four catches for 44 yards in Week 1 against Cleveland, but he'll look to exploit a Denver secondary that may be without Champ Bailey.
Analysis: Simpson may get some good matchups with A.J. Green likely drawing the top corner from the Broncos. Even though Denver gave up just 105 yards passing in Week 1, the lack of some key defensive guys could open the door for the Bengals. Simpson should be viewed as a low-end flex option for Week 2, but should be monitored moving forward.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson started Week 1 against Cleveland, and he made the most of the opportunity. He was targeted a team-high nine times in the 27-17 win, though he came up with just four catches for 44 yards. Simpson got loose for a 20-yarder, but he was able to haul in short passes otherwise.
Analysis: Simpson was clearly the first option among the WRs in the win, but top-notch CB Joe Haden was on rookie WR A.J. Green more times than not. That may not always be the case, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation going forward. Either way, he is a fringe flex option at-best going forward. Simpson may have the chance to get down-the-field more against the Broncos in Week 2, but don't depend on it.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson is one of several inexperienced skill-position players that leave an unknown quality to how the Bengals' offense will operate in Week 1 against Cleveland on Sunday. "It’s still a lot unknown because there is still a lot we haven’t ran yet," Simpson said. "We kind of showed the basics to get timing down. We're about to cut it open and let things loose." Simpson had 20 receptions and 277 yards last season.
Analysis: Simpson is entering his fourth NFL season -- third healthy campaign -- and has yet to develop into the solid receiving option Cincinnati was hoping for with a second-round selection in the 2008 draft. The 25-year-old played just five games last year, and Fantasy owners shouldn't put too much stock in his back-to-back 100-yard games to end the season. Simpson's Fantasy value takes a hit as Andy Dalton takes over at quarterback for the Bengals. Consider him a low-end No. 4, at best, and Fantasy owners should track his progress at the beginning of the year.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals WR Jerome Simpson has been lining up opposite rookie WR A.J. Green early on in training camp. “It’s exciting because it’s like the defense has to stay honest, they can’t just double one person,” Simpson said. “They have to stay honest and read us. Anyone can make a big play at any time.” Simpson continues to gush over first-year coordinator Jay Gruden's West Coast-base scheme. “It makes sense. It fits our player personnel. It’s player friendly,” Simpson said. “You get to your position, be an athlete and make a play. It’s just being on point. A lot of people try to say I didn’t know my playbook and that will never happen again. I’m trying to go out and be on point and precise.”
Analysis: Simpson is going to be a name on a lot of draft boards this year as a Fantasy sleeper after what he did in the final two games of the 2010 season, as he totaled 247 yards and three touchdowns. And while it appears Simpson will be a featured receiver in Cincinnati's offense, you have to remember that a rookie QB -- Andy Dalton -- is likely going to be slinging passes to Simpson and not Carson Palmer. Clearly the potential with the new offense and the prominent role Simpson should play in 2011 make him an intriguing sleeper, but don't reach for him before the middle rounds.
News: According to FOXSports.com, Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden said WR Jerome Simpson has room to grow as he potentially assumes a more prominent role if Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco are gone in 2011. “He played the last two games (18 catches for 247 yards and three touchdowns in Weeks 16 and 17 last season)," Gruden said. "He shows athletically that he’s an NFL receiver. Again, it’s consistency. He had a couple fumbles, and he sometimes has trouble lining up. Mentally, he’s got to get going and eliminate the dropsies. But from a talent standpoint, he’s exciting.”
Analysis: Simpson got a chance to start the last two games of the season due to injuries to Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. He made a case to be considered for a significant role in 2011-12, but his role will depend upon what the Bengals do with Owens and Ochocinco. Given the chance to be a starter, Simpson would have value as a mid-to-late round sleeper in Fantasy drafts this fall as he lines up opposite rookie A.J. Green.
News:Jerome Simpson is working out with a former Bengals trainer this offseason and claims he's in great shape. The late-season breakout receiver told the Cincinnati Enquirer that a talk he had with head coach Marvin Lewis ignited him to play harder and better, and it paid off in his last few games as he had 18 catches for 247 yards and three scores in his last two games. Simpson has met with new offensive coordinator Jay Gruden and is working on his lateral movement and footwork this offseason so that he can start and be effective come the season. “(Over the last three games) I got the show the world what I could do," Simpson said. "I feel like I could have been doing that from the beginning but there’s a reason why everything transpired like it did. I just took it in stride. It springboarded me to the offseason to keep working hard and just keep that faith that I can do anything that I want as long as I keep working."
Analysis: We like the renewed optimism Simpson has, and there's no question that he has the potential to be a dominant receiver. It took him a while to get into the swing of things with the Bengals, but he's arrived and should contend to start. We consider him a sleeper in 2011, and he should be drafted with a middle- to late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Bengals official team website reports that WR Jerome Simpson couldn't wait for new offensive coordinator Jay Gruden to churn out the entire new playbook, so he changed his flight home from the Super Bowl to Cincinnati and got some coming attractions for his efforts this week. "I'm not going to give it all away," said Simpson after his first session, which he characterized as an informal meeting with receivers coach Mike Sheppard. "The only thing I'm going to give away is it's going to be wide open. We're going to use the personnel and the talent we have. I can see it already and we haven’t run a play yet. It's getting set up that we're going to use everybody on this team at every position. From tight ends to wide receivers to running backs."
Analysis: There is concern that a new system is going to cause problems for young receivers like Simpson and rookie tight end Jermaine Gresham and rookie wide receiver Jordan Shipley. It took Simpson three seasons to get used to offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski's scheme, but when he did and he got the chance to play in it the last three games, he wowed. In the win over the Chargers, his second NFL start, Simpson racked up his first 100-yard game (124) and his first two touchdowns. The next week in the finale in Baltimore, he did it again (123) on 12 catches that marked the second-most receptions in club history. With every indication wide receivers Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens aren't coming back, Simpson is a very big piece for the Bengals. We consider him a sleeper in 2011, and he should be drafted with a late-round pick in all leagues.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson finished the season on a high note with a second consecutive big game in Week 17 at Baltimore. A week after catching six passes for 124 yards and two scores, he caught 12 passes for 123 yards and an 11-yard touchdown.
Analysis: Simpson got a chance to start the last two games of the season due to injuries to Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. He made a case to be considered for a significant role in 2011-12, but his role will depend upon what the Bengals do in the offseason. Given the chance to be a starter, Simpson would have value as a mid-to-late round sleeper in Fantasy drafts this fall.
News: No T.O., no Ocho. It took injuries to the Bengals' top two receivers to finally get Jerome Simpson a chance to show he's not a draft-day bust. The third-year receiver had a breakout game Sunday, setting career highs with six catches for 124 yards and a pair of touchdowns during a 34-20 win over San Diego. Simpson was a second-round pick out of Coastal Carolina in 2008, a move that was immediately second-guessed. He had only one catch during his first two seasons, unable to get on the field because he was learning the offense. His game Sunday makes him a candidate to start next season, when Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco could be gone.
Analysis: Simpson is worth adding in leagues still playing in Week 17 after his performance against the Chargers. Owens is out for the season and Ochocinco might sit again. That means Simpson could be a go-to target for Carson Palmer again against Baltimore. We consider Simpson a potential No. 3 Fantasy WR in deeper leagues.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson entered Week 16 with just one catch for 2 yards over the first 10 games of his career. The third-year receiver has made the most of the last two weeks with Terrell Owens being done for the year and Chad Ochocinco missing Week 16. He caught his first career touchdown against the Chargers. His second score would come on a 59-yard strike from Carson Palmer, who caught the Chargers defense napping as they came out of their huddle late. That allowed Simpson to get a few steps on his defender and find the end zone again. "They didn't use a cadence," Chargers coach Norv Turner said. "They didn't shift or move anybody. They got up there and snapped the ball and we obviously weren't ready for it." He finished the day with six catches for 124 yards -- both career highs. “I want to play for the coaches. And I want to play for the city," Simpson said. "I want to win and do everything possible I can do to win. I just wanted to execute and make plays like I knew I could.”
Analysis: Simpson had played just 10 games in his career before Week 15 last Sunday. No one could predict him breaking out for a career day on a windy day against the best defense in the NFL. The Chargers had been allowing just 170 yards through the air this year, and while the Bengals offense didn't have a ton of yards, they started with good field position. With Cincy playing their young receivers, Simpson will likely get some more playing time in Week 17 against Baltimore. At this stage of the season it's unlikely Simpson will make enough of an impact to warrant much Fantasy attention for next Sunday.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson recorded his first two receptions of the season in Week 15 against the Bengals. He was targeted three times in the 19-17 win and finished with two receptions for 30 yards. He had a long of 15 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Simpson was a second-round draft pick back in 2008 but had just one career reception entering Sunday's contest. He could be in line to see some extra playing time over the last two games with Terrell Owens out for the season with a knee injury and the Bengals wanting to give their younger players a look. However, Cincinnati has not been a good passing team this year and Simpson is way too risky to start in Fantasy league, especially at this time of year. He can be ignored heading into Week 16 against the Chargers.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson led his team in receiving in Thursday's preseason finale against the Colts. He caught six passes for 68 yards, including a touchdown. He was targeted six times in the game. Simpson had six catches for 81 yards in the team's three previous preseason games coming in.
Analysis: Simpson has made a strong case to make the team out of the preseason, but we don't anticipate him playing a big role in the regular season. He won't be high enough on the depth chart to matter, barring injuries, and is a player to avoid in Fantasy drafts.
News: The release of WR Antonio Bryant Sunday likely solidified the roster spots of WRs Quan Cosby and Jerome Simpson. The two were battling for the final WR spot on the team, so the release should leave room for both.
Analysis: Simpson played in just two games with the Bengals last season and failed to make a catch. He has a long way to climb to see action with Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco in town. Leave him on waivers in all Fantasy leagues.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals WR Jerome Simpson is making a good impression this offseason. In his first two seasons with the Bengals, Simpson has just one catch, but he's doing well in OTA workouts. "A ton more improvement from end of season to right now than the first couple years," said QB Carson Palmer. "He has consistently made plays every OTA. If he can continue to do that, the sky is the limit for him."
Analysis: Simpson has the chance to be a reserve WR for the Bengals, but the likelihood of him playing much is slim. The Bengals are set with starters Chad Ochocinco and Antonio Bryant and also have key reserves in Andre Caldwell and rookie Jordan Shipley. Simpson might see some playing time, but not enough to make him Fantasy relevant. Ignore him in all leagues on Draft Day.
News: With the Bengals drafting Texas WR Jordan Shipley with a third-round pick and Kansas WR Dezmon Briscoe with a sixth-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, several Bengals receivers have to be feeling the heat. Shipley is a inside receiver much like Andre Caldwell, and because of these additions along with the signings of Antonio Bryant and Matt Jones, there might not be enough room on the roster for the likes of Jerome Simpson and Quan Cosby. The Bengals insist they're creating competition in hopes of improving their passing game.
Analysis: Simpson has flamed out in the pros while Cosby wasn't productive in his first year in the league. Caldwell, however, is coming off a 50-catch year and had moments where he looked good. He's also entering his third season, which is typically when receivers take the next step in their progression, but all of that could be washed out if Shipley overtakes him for the slot role. Ultimately, no Bengals WRs are worth drafting unless their last names are Ochocinco or Bryant, but whoever fills that slot role for them could be a one-week replacement option off waivers.
News:Clark Harris, Quan Cosby, Darius Hill and Jerome Simpson all failed to record a stat in the team's Week 17 loss at the Jets.
Analysis: None of these players figure to be significant in Fantasy in 2010, so continue to ignore them on Draft Day.
News: The Bengals have announced the following players as inactive for Week 16: DL Domata Peko, DB Chris Crocker, RB Fui Vakapuna, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Orien Harris and QB Jordan Palmer.
Analysis: None of the players listed have any chance at Fantasy appeal this season. Leave them reserved in all leagues until further notice.
News: Bengals RB Bernard Scott, RB Fui Vakapuna, LB Dan Skuta, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Domata Peko and QB Jordan Palmer have all been listed as inactive for the team's Week 13 game against the Lions.
Analysis: Scott is not likely going to be a relevant Fantasy option now that Cedric Benson has returned to action. The rest of these players are not relevant Fantasy players.
News: The Bengals listed the following players as inactive for Week 12 against Cleveland: QB Jordan Palmer, RB Cedric Benson, LB Keith Rivers, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, RB Fui Vakapuna, DL Orien Harris.
Analysis: Aside from Benson, none of the players listed here have any real Fantasy appeal. Leave them unowned in all Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Bengals RB Cedric Benson, WR Jerome Simpson, RB Fui Vakapuna, TE Chase Coffman, LB Keith Rivers and QB J.T. O'Sullivan have all been listed as inactive for the team's Week 11 game at Oakland.
Analysis: With the exception of Benson, none of these players have much Fantasy value and can continue to be ignored in all formats.
News: The Bengals have listed the following players as inactive for Week 10 at Pittsburgh: QB Jordan Palmer (3rd QB), RB Fui Vakapuna, LB Keith Rivers, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson and DL Orien Harris.
Analysis: Rivers has 43 tackles on the season for the Bengals and is a low-end Fantasy option for IDP leagues, when healthy. He has little Fantasy value and the rest of the players listed above have none at this time.
News: Cincinnati has listed the following players as inactive for Week 9 against the Ravens: DB Roy L. Williams, RB Fui Vakapuna, LB Dan Skuta, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Orien Harris and Jordan Palmer is the third QB.
Analysis: Williams has been out since Week 6 and doesn't seem to factor much into the defense for the Bengals. You don't need to own him in Fantasy IDP play at this point in his career. The rest of the players listed above can also go without ownership in Fantasy play for Week 9 at the least.
News: The Bengals inactive list: SS Roy Williams, RB Brian Leonard, TE Chase Coffman, LB Dan Skuta, OT Scott Kooistra, WR Jerome Simpson and OT Andre Smith. The designated third QB is Jordan Palmer. Chinedum Ndukwe will start in place of Williams.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy relevance and can continue to be ignored in most Fantasy formats.
News: The following Bengals players were listed as inactive for Week 6 against Houston: QB Jordan Palmer, DB Roy L. Williams, RB brian Leonard, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Frostee Rucker.
Analysis: None of the players on this list are expected to have any Fantasy appeal this season. Leave them on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: The Bengals have listed Jordan Palmer (third QB), CB David Jones, SS Roy L. Williams, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson and DT Tank Johnson as inactive for the team's Week 4 game against the Browns.
Analysis: None of the players listed as inactive for Week 4 against Cleveland are relevant in Fantasy, so continue to leave them out of lineups.
News: The Bengals' list of inactives for Week 3 against the Steelers includes QB Jordan Palmer, DB David Jones, DB Tom Nelson, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson and DL Frostee Rucker.
Analysis: None of these players does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy even when active. Leave them all on waivers.
News: The following players are inactive for the Bengals on Sunday at Green Bay: QB Jordan Palmer (third QB), CB David Jones, S Tom Nelson, TE Chase Coffman, WR Jerome Simpson and DE Frostee Rucker.
Analysis: None of these players should be used in Week 2 against the Packers and have minimal Fantasy value when active. Don't plan on using them in Week 3 against the Steelers either.
News: Notable inactives from Week 1's Broncos-Bengals game include: Broncos DB Josh Barrett, DE Chris Baker, WR Brandon Lloyd, DE Jarvis Moss and DT Le Kevin Smith. For the Bengals, RB DeDe Dorsey, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Chase Coffman, DB Tom Nelson, DE Frostee Rucker, CB David Jones and QB Jordan Palmer (No. 3/emergency QB) are inactive.
Analysis: The only real surprise here is Chase Coffman on the inactive list. He cannot be considered useful for Week 1 anyway. Everyone else on this list wasn't expected to produce enough stats to warrant Fantasy use. Keep them off rosters for now.
News: According to the official team web site, Bengals WR Jerome Simpson needs to improve. Coach Marvin Lewis said that Simpson, who is entering his second year after a disappointing rookie season, "has a long way to go," if he wants to make sure he plays this year. But Lewis also said he'll get plenty of shots in training camp.
Analysis: Simpson is low on the depth chart right now behind Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles, Chris Henry and Andre Caldwell. We don't see Simpson doing much this season, and he's not worth drafting in any Fantasy leagues this year.
News: The Dayton Daily News reports Bengald WR Jerome Simpson, who was the team's second-round pick in 2008, "has left much to be desired in his development as a wide receiver." Simpson has not played well this offseason and finds himself fifth, at best, on the depth chart behind Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles, Chris Henry and Andre Caldwell.
Analysis: With T.J. Houshmandzadeh gone to Seattle, there was an opportunity for Simpson to step up even with the team bringing in Coles. Still, Simpson had a poor rookie season and will now find it hard to make plays this year. The safe bet is to ignore him in all leagues on Draft Day.
News: The Bengals have announced the inactives for their Week 16 game at Cleveland. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (third QB), WR Chad Johnson, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Ben Utecht, RB Kenny Watson and CB Simeon Castille.
Analysis: Johnson was probable coming into Sunday, but his hamstring is not ready for game action. Palmer was declared out for the year earlier this season. Utecht can have some Fantasy value when healthy, but his foot injury will keep him out. Ignore the rest.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (3rd QB) is still among the Week 15 inactives for Cincinnati against the Redskins. The following players are also inactive for the game: RB Chris Perry, RB Kenny Watson, DB Chinedum Ndukwe, TE Ben Utecht and WR Jerome Simpson.
Analysis: We would be stunned if the one-win and one-tie Bengals let Palmer go out on the field again this season with nothing to play for. What we will likely see is Palmer continue to test his elbow over the next three weeks and try to avoid surgery -- and playing time. You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. The rest of the names above have little Fantasy relevance and don't need to be on rosters at this time.
News: Cincinnati WR Jerome Simpson started in Week 14's 35-3 loss to the Colts but did not make a catch or pick up any stats.
Analysis: Simpson may have started the game but he always does too little in Fantasy to be considered a viable option to use. Don't pick him up off waivers in Week 15 against the Redskins.
News: Cincinnati is still without QB Carson Palmer in Week 11 against the Eagles. The other inactives for Philadelphia are: DL Eric Henderson, TE Nate Lawrie, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Antwan Odom and DL Jason Shirley.
Analysis: Same ol' routine for those Fantasy owners who are sticking with Palmer this late into the season. There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. He has no Fantasy value for the time being, but keep him if you want. The rest of these players have no Fantasy value and should be kept off rosters.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Bengals WR Andre Caldwell (foot) and WR Jerome Simpson (ankle) are working out this week but are not expected to play Sunday, head coach Marvin Lewis said.
Analysis: Both of these players have marginal roles for the Bengals when healthy and are more important to their real team than Fantasy. Continue to keep them reserved Week 11 and likely off most Fantasy rosters.
News: The Bengals have announced the Week 9 inactives for their game vs. Jacksonville. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (elbow), DB Geoffrey Pope (coach's decision), TE Nate Lawrie (coach's decision), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), DT Orien Harris (coach's decision) and DT Jason Shirley (coach's decision).
Analysis: Palmer obviously still has some Fantasy value, but he was declared out earlier in the week. No one else in this list has any value.
News: Bengals WR Andre Caldwell (foot), DB Dexter Jackson (hamstring) and WR Jerome Simpson (ankle) have been ruled out for Week 9 vs. Jacksonville.
Analysis: Most of these players have marginal roles for the Bengals when healthy and are more important to their real team than Fantasy. Continue to keep them reserved Week 9 and likely off most Fantasy rosters.
News: The following players are listed as inactive for Week 8 at Houston for the Bengals: DB Jamar Fletcher, LB Corey Mays, TE Ben Utecht, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson and DT Jason Shirley.
Analysis: Caldwell only has long-term potential this point since he's buried on the Bengals' depth chart. Consider him no better than a low-end reserve worth hanging on to in the deepest of keeper leagues. None of the other players on this list should be considered viable Fantasy options.
News: Bengals WR Jerome Simpson caught one pass for two yards in Week 7 against Pittsburgh. It was his first catch of the season.
Analysis: Simpson has good size and speed to go along with incredible jumping ability. But he does not have a big enough role in the offense. Leave him on the waiver wire in Fantasy.
News: Bengals DB Dexter Jackson, LB Corey Mays, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, DL John Thornton and DL Jason Shirley have all been ruled inactive for Week 6 at N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves and have a marginal role when active. It's safe to keep most of them off Fantasy rosters and all should be reserved for Fantasy Week 6.
News: The Bengals listed the following players as inactive for Week 3 at the N.Y. Giants: QB Jordan Palmer (third QB), DL Jason Shirley (coach's decision), DL Pat Sims (coach's decision), WR Andre Caldwell (coach's decision), WR Jerome Simpson (coach's decision), TE Ben Utecht (chest), DB Dexter Jackson (thumb) and DB Jonathan Joseph (ankle).
Analysis: Aside from possibly Joseph in IDP formats and Utecht in very deep leagues, none of the players on this list are going to be in line for considerable playing time anytime soon. Leave them on the waiver wire in all Fantasy leagues until further notice. They've got some depth chart climbing to do.
News: Rookie WR Jerome Simpson led the Bengals in catches and yards in the preseason, looking better each time out. When the season started, everything changed. The second-round draft pick from Coastal Carolina hasn't played much and hasn't caught a pass during Cincinnati's 0-2 start. It underscores how things change when the games count. "He's still a young guy, still young-minded from the standpoint of seeing a whole different type of football, a whole different game," QB Carson Palmer said. "Slowly, though, I think we'll try to work him into certain situations." The Bengals figured they'd have to go slow with Simpson in his transition from Championship Subdivision team to the NFL. So far, it's gone as expected. He had 11 catches for 157 yards in the preseason, when he could rely on his talent alone. "Jerome's got a ways to go as far as understanding what to do, and for us to have some confidence in him being in the spots where he needs to be," coach Marvin Lewis said. "Then he can maybe earn some more playing time. He's played in each of the games, but he's got to be right all the time in practice."
Analysis: The Bengals need a No. 3 WR to complement Chad Jackson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Simpson sounds a little frustrated and puzzled by his lack of time on the field. "I work hard every day, so there ain't too much I can say," Simpson said. "I've got great veterans in front of me. I mean, I don't know, man, to tell you the truth." For now, keep Simpson reserved in all leagues. He has minimal Fantasy value at this time.
News: Bengals QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, TE Daniel Coats, WR Glenn Holt, TE Brad St. Louis and WR Jerome Simpson all dressed for their loss to the Titans in Week 2 but did not record an offensive statistic.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value. Continue to ignore them in Week 3 at the Giants.
News: Bengals WR Glenn Holt, RB DeDe Dorsey, WR Antonio Chatman, TE Daniel Coats, WR Jerome Simpson and QB Ryan Fitzpatrick all dressed, but failed to record any offensive stats Week 1 against the Ravens.
Analysis: Most of these players are nothing more than reserves or minor contributors for the Bengals. They have little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 2 against the Titans.
News: The Dayton Daily News reports that somebody will have to replace Chris Henry, who was cut in April, as the Bengals' No. 3 wide receiver behind Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh. As of now, five players are vying for the job: Marcus Maxwell, Jerome Simpson, Andre Caldwell, Glenn Holt and Antonio Chatman are all in the mix. "It'll be a big deal because Slim (Henry) brought a lot to our offense," Houshmandzadeh said.
Analysis: Keep an eye on this battle because Henry was a productive Fantasy option. Simpson and Caldwell have the most upside since the Bengals drafted them with third-round picks this year. Holt and Chatman are veterans but have more value on special teams, and Maxwell could struggle to make the team.
News: The Bengals have signed rookie WRs Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell to contracts. Both signed four-year deals, and both will battle for spots on the WR depth chart in training camp.
Analysis: Caldwell has a chance to shine as a rookie, possibly as the Bengals' No. 3 WR in the role Chris Henry left behind. Simpson is more of a project for the club and has looked shaky in offseason minicamps. Neither receiver is worth a long look in seasonal leagues at this point, but both are solid middle-round picks in rookie-only drafts this summer.
News: The Dayton Daily News reports that Bengals rookie WR Jerome Simpson struggled during a June minicamp. Simpson didn't finish his routes, which led to some interceptions, and tended to jump for nearly every catch, even when it wasn't necessary. He also lacked competitive firepower and is now more of a candidate for special-teams play than offense. He's been passed on the depth chart by fellow rookie Andre Caldwell.
Analysis: Simpson has good size and speed to go along with incredible jumping ability. However, it looks like he's struggling to catch up to the pro game and is making plenty of rookie mistakes. Until we hear that this is corrected, your best bet is to steer clear of Simpson in drafts this summer. He's only worth a pick in rookie-only drafts with a pick between Rounds 2 and 3.
News: Coastal Carolina's Jerome Simpson was drafted in the second round, No. 46 overall by the Bengals in April - 51 spots ahead of fellow rookie Andre Caldwell of Florida. But QB Carson Palmer sees a more pro-ready receiver in Caldwell than the small-school Simpson, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. "Jerome is a raw receiver coming out of a much smaller division school with a ton of potential, speed, quickness (and) great hands," Palmer said. "He's a little ways away from being ready to be in there in the heat of the fire, but has tremendous upside. On the other side, there's Andre Caldwell, our third-round pick, who can start right now and play right now. He doesn't get shaken or nervous with all the media here on the first day of minicamp. He doesn't show any signs of being a rookie. He looks like a vet. He looks like he's been out there and done it before, doesn't really get rattled or nervous about anything."
Analysis: It appears Caldwell could be the leading candidate to replace Chris Henry as the No. 3 receiver for the Bengals. Simpson also will play a role, and what happens with Chad Johnson could determine what happens with the Bengals receivers. For now, consider Caldwell and Simpson low-end Fantasy options in seasonal leagues. In rookie drafts, look at Caldwell and Simpson as third-round options.
News: When the Cincinnati Bengals selected Coastal Carolina WR Jerome Simpson with the 46th overall pick of the NFL draft, shouts of disbelief could be heard across Bengals country. The organization surprised a lot of fans when the team took the small-school talent in the second round. But Cincinnati is confident in Simpson. The Bengals coaching staff got a glimpse of the receiver's special abilities during rookie minicamp earlier this month. "You can see the speed — the explosive speed — and that's good to see out there on the practice field," head coach Marvin Lewis said. "You see it right away. He's shown good with his athleticism and ability to catch the football. Those are things you look for." Simpson is being looked upon heavily as the replacement for departed Chris Henry at the No. 3 wideout position, reports the Dayton Daily News.
Analysis: Simpson could be a nice sleeper in 2008 if Chad Johnson stays true to his word and misses any time with his contract situation. Keep an eye on what develops with the Bengals because Simpson has a chance to be a playmaker. Take him with a late-round flier in seasonal leagues and with a middle-round pick in rookie drafts.
