News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports Browns offensive coordinator Norv Turner spoke quite highly of quarterback Brandon Weeden recently, citing his composure, competitiveness and work ethic as big positives for him to play well in his second year. He also thinks playing as a rookie will ultimately be a good thing for him. "Brandon was in here with a very young group of guys," Turner said of Weeden's rookie year. "So when you have a lot of young guys and they're trying to feel their way together, it's hard. All those guys having a year together, including Brandon, will help him a great deal."
Analysis: Turner also referred to new Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer as a backup candidate, which means the battle to start in Cleveland is between Weeden and veteran Jason Campbell. All signs point to Weeden winning that competition and being at the helm of what could be a pass-heavy offense loaded with young (and unproven) talent. Chances are Weeden will go undrafted in all Fantasy league drafts but be worth considering off waivers when faced with a favorable matchup, such as in Week 6 vs. Detroit when Matt Ryan is on bye.
News: ESPN reports that as expected, OTAs began with Brandon Weeden as the No. 1 quarterback for the Browns. Free agent-signee Jason Campbell is No. 2. The report says that going forward Weeden is on a one-year trial. He has to win everyone over in his second NFL season or he will become the 18th Browns quarterback to lose his job since 1999.
Analysis: Weeden should remain the starter for the Browns all season, but he has minimal Fantasy value coming into the year. He should not be drafted in most formats, but if he plays well under new coach Rob Chudzinski and offensive coordinator Norv Turner you might add Weeden off the waiver wire.
News: NFL Films Senior Producer Greg Cosell said on the FantasyGuru.com podcast that you can "take it to the bank" that Brandon Weeden will start for the Browns to begin the year. Weeden figures to have a jump on the starting job ahead of newcomer Jason Campbell.
Analysis: Coach Rob Chudzinski has spoken often about competition for the job but per the network he and offensive coordinator Norv Turner are more excited by Weeden's arm and ability to throw deep. Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: While league sources told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that Jason Campbell will have a chance to start for the Browns, NFL Network reports that Brandon Weeden will be given the first crack at starting when the season opens. Coach Rob Chudzinski has spoken often about competition for the job but per the network he and offensive coordinator Norv Turner are more excited by Weeden's arm and ability to throw deep.
Analysis: Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: CBS radio in Cleveland reports that Browns coach Rob Chudzinski likes what he's seen from quarterback Brandon Weeden so far this offseason. “I’ve been pleased with his progress,” Chudzinski said in an interview with 92.3 The Fan on Thursday. “His approach has been outstanding. We’ve been working primarily on the mental standpoint, his knowledge, his understanding of the offense and of the game. As a young player, there’s a lot of things he still has to learn as a player in this league. We’ve been working on his mechanics and speeding up his delivery and then just getting to know him and getting to know the type of person and competitor he is and how he responds. Ultimately it comes down to production and that’s what we will be looking for improvement in.” Even though he likes what he’s seen from Weeden, who continues to take the first team reps this offseason, he’s not ready to commit to him this fall. “I feel good about where we’re at right now,” Chudzinski said. “He’s been working with the first group and we’ll just see as we go forward. We’re [working] on air right now so it’s very early but I do like what I’ve see so far and we’ll see how it goes. Right now it’s too early to say anything one way or another.”
Analysis: Jason Campbell signed a two-year contract this offseason to compete with Weeden, and Chudzinski left the door open for him to possibly win the starting job. “I expect both of these guys to compete,” Chudzinski said. “I don’t know any other way. Anybody that’s on a team is competing from my standpoint. We want to put these guys in a situation, give them every chance to succeed and we’ll see how that all plays out. I’m hoping that the best man wins the job and that he gives us a chance to win.”
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer notes Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden took the first-team snaps in minicamp practice in mid-April but might not do so when training camp opens in July. That's if the team adds a quarterback in the NFL draft. Weeden isn't focused on things he can't control and is instead trying to be the leader of the Browns offense. "Now that it's my second year, it's my job to take control, be the guy, and be the leader," he said. "I lead by example but I think there's a comfort level there now that maybe wasn't there last year just because I was still learning. This year I'm a little bit more proactive and kind of being the guy that's kind of leading the way."
Analysis: Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Browns president Joe Banner made it clear Thursday that Brandon Weeden heads into the offseason as the starting quarterback, but he will be challenged by Jason Campbell and perhaps a draft pick. Banner stressed the club could still draft a quarterback and that the starter for opening day is to be determined. He added that the club has no immediate plans to release Colt McCoy or trade him, but that they'll listen to offers. If he's still around through camp, he could get caught in the numbers game come August, Banner indicated. "Brandon's the starter, and there's competition,'' Banner said. "He'll have to come in and play well and work hard and prove that he deserves to maintain the position he starts in. There's a clear, direct relationship between the quality of your quarterback play and your ability to go as far as we hope to go as we build this team. So we'll never stop focusing on trying to find and evaluate quarterbacks, and if we got lucky enough to have more than one really good quarterback, there's nothing wrong with that problem.''
Analysis: Banner said that Weeden will get the first-team reps in the first minicamp April 16-18. After that, we'll see if Weeden can hold off Campbell. Even if Weeden does start he would have minimal Fantasy value. He is not worth drafting in the majority of leagues.
News:Brandon Weeden has reached out to former NFL quarterback and current quarterback trainer Chris Weinke about improving his game. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer the two have worked out together just a little bit but Weinke can already tell Weeden has some talent. Saying he's come away impressed with Weeden's arm strength, Weinke shed some light on where the improvement is being made. "We're focusing on his footwork, and he's a gifted athlete," said Weinke. "We're trying to create that sense of urgency within his feet, which will obviously translate into getting rid of the ball quicker. He was very receptive and I'm excited to see what transpires over the next couple days."
Analysis: What's interesting is two years ago Cam Newton went to work with Weinke. Newton then went on to work with Rob Chudzinski in Carolina. Weeden will work with Chudzinski in Cleveland this year. Granted, Newton's a far superior athlete to Weeden but perhaps this is a way for the Browns to give their quarterback a head start on learning the offense and being prepared for training camp with a new coaching staff. Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden said he’s “absolutely” confident he’ll win the starting job no matter who is acquired to compete with him this offseason. “I completely expect to be the starter,” Weeden said. “That’s my mindset going in. I’m confident in my ability to be the guy, to lead this football team.” During an interview Saturday at the NFL Scouting Combine, Browns CEO Joe Banner said the organization wants to give Weeden the best chance to succeed, but he must prove himself worthy of retaining his role as the starter. “We see potential that we’re going to try to work with it and see what it’s going to develop into,” Banner said. “Some of that is just going to come from how bad he wants it. So I think we’ll know a lot more than we know now shortly.”
Analysis: Weeden started all 15 games in which he appeared last season and completed 297 of 517 passes (57.4 percent) for 3,385 yards and 14 touchdowns with 17 interceptions. His passer rating of 72.6 was fourth worst in the NFL. Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: Browns coach Rob Chudzinski was positive in his review of quarterback Brandon Weeden on Friday, complimenting his arm, poise and demeanor, but didn't rule out naming him the starter nor trading him. The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports when specifically asked about trading Weeden or backup Colt McCoy, Chudzinski didn't shoot the idea down. "We're looking to improve our team in any areas, by any means of doing that," he said. When asked if there was a change coming at quarterback, Chudzinski also decided to not squash any rumors. "Some of those things are hard to say," he explained. "We need to get out on the practice field. We need to get into the meetings, get into the installs and evaluate [Weeden]. We’re going to put the best guy on the field that gives us the best chance to win."
Analysis: Chudzinski primarily preached competition, so one could argue that Weeden still has an opportunity to start but is going to have to fight for that right. Weeden completed 57.4 percent of his passes for 3,385 yards for 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions last season, and while he did some nice things he also struggled. Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: The new regime in charge of the Browns has done nothing to cement Brandon Weeden's status as the franchise quarterback and that's just fine with him. After a rocky rookie season, Weeden is eager for the competition that new owner Jimmy Haslam has predicted before next season. "I expect competition. That's the way professional sports are. Unless you're Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees or these guys, you might as well expect for somebody to try to come take your job," Weeden said Friday. "That's part of the business. But it's also the fun part. You get to compete and try to be a winner." Weeden threw for 3,385 yards with 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions last season after being the No. 22 draft pick out of Oklahoma State. The Browns won just five games last season, with the new ownership group getting rid of coach Pat Shurmur, general manager Tom Heckert and team president Mike Holmgren. New coach Rob Chudzinski has called it "premature" to name Weeden the starting quarterback for next season, and Haslam suggested someone will be brought in to go against Weeden. Cleveland has the No. 6 pick in this year's draft or could pursue another quarterback by trade or in free agency.
Analysis: While Weeden certainly didn't perform as well as fellow rookie quarterbacks Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson and Ryan Tannehill, he wasn't a complete bust either. We'll find out what the Browns plan to do at quarterback, but continue to monitor what develops. If Weeden is back as the starter in Cleveland he would only be a No. 2 Fantasy option at best with a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News: Browns owner Jimmy Haslam said Friday his team will have a competition for the starting quarterback job in training camp this summer. "I think Norv and Chud have been very open that they like a lot of what Brandon (Weeden) does, but we're going to have competition at that position, and I think competition makes us all better and we'll see where that competition comes from,'' Haslam said, adding that the Browns don't plan on making any "big splashy, high-priced moves" in free agency.
Analysis: Weeden was in a competition to start last season and came away with the job soon after training camp started. Then he completed 57.4 percent of his passes for 3,385 yards for 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. Weeden has the make-up of the kind of quarterback offensive coordinator Norv Turner can work with but he is by no means the long-term solution for Cleveland. No one should draft Weeden outside of with a late pick in the deepest of leagues.
News: New Browns coach Rob Chudzinski says it's "premature" to name Brandon Weeden his starting quarterback for next season. At a news conference to introduce offensive coordinator Norv Turner, Chudzinski would not commit to Weeden, who had an uneven rookie season. Turner would not provide an evaluation of Weeden, but did say the quarterback possesses "the skill set we're looking for. He does have a big arm." Turner will also coach Cleveland's quarterbacks and is looking forward to working with Weeden, who passed for 3,385 yards with 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions.
Analysis: While Weeden certainly didn't perform as well as fellow rookie quarterbacks Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson and Ryan Tannehill, he wasn't a complete bust either. We'll find out what the Browns plan to do at quarterback, but continue to monitor what develops. If Weeden is back as the starter in Cleveland he would only be a No. 2 Fantasy option at best with a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News: The fate of Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden has been up in the air since Jimmy Haslam bought the team and brought in Joe Banner as CEO. When Rob Chudzinski was hired last week, his answer to a Weeden question was awfully non-committal, and now that the Browns have brought in Michael Lombardi as the new VP of player personnel, Lombardi was asked about Cleveland's first-round pick from 2012. Especially since he called the Weeden pick a “panicked disaster” at the time. “I think it's going to take some time to study him,” Lombardi said during his introductory news conference Friday. “I've got to go back through and watch practice tapes.”
Analysis: While Weeden certainly didn't perform as well as fellow rookie quarterbacks Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Russell Wilson and Ryan Tannehill, he wasn't a complete bust either. He completed 57.4 percent of his passes for 3,385 yards for 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions, but he also had good moments and showed improvement throughout the season. We'll find out what the Browns plan to do at quarterback, but continue to monitor what develops. If Weeden is back as the starter in Cleveland he would only be a No. 2 Fantasy option at best with a late-round pick.
News: The Browns fired coach Pat Shurmur, the team announced Monday morning. General manager Tom Heckert was also let go. Shurmur was the coach of the team last year when they drafted quarterback Brandon Weeden and named him the starter soon after the start of training camp. Weeden finished his rookie season with solid yardage totals (3,385) but dealt with plenty of accuracy and consistency issues. He completed 57.4 percent of his passes with 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions on the year.
Analysis: It remains to be seen what kind of offense the Browns will install as it's dependent on the next head coach. It also remains to be seen if Weeden will be the starter next year as that is also dependent on the next head coach. There's some pretty good potential in Weeden but without a polished receiving corps he leaves a lot to be desired. Fantasy owners can look at him as a low-end backup heading into 2013 drafts thanks to the plethora of quarterback talent around the league.
News: As previously reported, Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was inactive and unable to play in Week 17 against the Steelers, due to a shoulder injury suffered in Week 16. Weeden was unable to practice throughout the week, and was announce as out for the game Friday on the official injury report. Thaddeus Lewis started the game in his place.
Analysis: Weeden finishes his rookie season with solid yardage totals (3,385), but he certainly dealt with plenty of accuracy and consistency issues. He completed 57.4 percent of his passes, with 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions on the year. The Browns did not have many weapons in the passing game, and they will likely look to acquire some more play makers to put around him heading into his second season. There is little reason to expect the Browns to open up the quarterback competition after investing a first-round pick in Weeden last year, so he should remain the starter. Unfortunately, his struggles as a rookie make him more of a low-end Fantasy quarterback in 2013 drafts, worth targeting more as a reserve.
News: Cleveland quarterbacks Brandon Weeden and Colt McCoy were both ruled out for Week 17 at Pittsburgh because of right shoulder injuries, leaving Thaddeus Lewis as the starter for the team's season finale. Both Weeden and McCoy were absent from practice throughout the past week, including Friday, after suffering the injuries during a loss to Denver in Week 16. Lewis was promoted from the practice squad last Monday. "Now that he’s had a season under his belt, he’ll come back here in the offseason, much like a lot of quarterbacks in this league that went on to have really good careers, just pick one. They all had rookie years where they were much better in their second year," coach Pat Shurmur said about Weeden. "I think he’s shown quite a bit this year that’s good."
Analysis: Weeden's shoulder injury represents an anti-climatic finish to his first NFL season as he stumbled to a poor finish for the Browns. Unlike some of the other rookie quarterbacks, Weeden struggled to develop any consistency and finished with more interceptions (17) than touchdown passes (14) -- one of only two players to accomplish that dubious feat (minimum 11 starts). Shurmur said the 29-year-old will not require surgery, but Fantasy owners should obviously discard him in seasonal formats as he also holds minimal value in keeper leagues heading into the offseason.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was sidelined yet again Thursday in practice, as he continues to deal with a shoulder injury in advance of Week 17 in Pittsburgh. Weeden could not practice for the second day in a row, increasing the chance that Thaddeus Lewis would earn the start at quarterback for the game after being signed off the practice squad. Browns coach Pat Shurmur would not commit to Weeden for the game, telling reporters that he would make the decision as close to gametime as possible, to give his rookie quarterback a chance to fully recovery.
Analysis: Weeden has had an up and down season as a rookie, but he would certainly like to finish it in the starting lineup where he began. If he is able to play, Weeden would face the Steelers for the second time this season if he is able to play. He passed for 158 yards with one touchdown and one interception in Week 13 against Pittsburgh. We will continue to monitor Weeden’s progress heading into Week 17 to see if he is able to take the field, however he should be considered just a low-end Fantasy option if he plays.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden (shoulder) was idle at practice on Wednesday in preparation for Week 17 at Pittsburgh. The Browns also had Colt McCoy, who suffered a shoulder injury against Denver last week, idle from practice. Cleveland promoted quarterback Thad Lewis from the practice squad to take first-team reps in practice. Coach Pat Shurmur said the injury to Weeden wasn't as serious as originally thought. He has not been ruled out for the game against Pittsburgh yet.
Analysis: While the Browns haven't ruled Weeden out yet for the Week 17 regular-season finale, it still doesn't sound like he's got a great chance at playing. That said, McCoy's issue could be just as bad, if not worse. Is it possible Lewis gets the start against the Steelers? Either way, none of these quarterbacks are considered viable Fantasy options for Week 17, healthy or not.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden suffered a sprained shoulder during a loss to Denver in Week 16, but has not been ruled out for the season finale, the Plain Dealer reports. Weeden injured his right shoulder when he couldn't avoid the Broncos' heavy rush and went down hard as Von Miller recorded the sack. As he made his way to the shower after the game, Weeden said, "I'm all right," when asked about his injury. If Weeden is unable to play in Week 17 at Pittsburgh, Colt McCoy is expected to earn the start in his place.
Analysis: Until the injury occurred, Weeden was having a rather pedestrian game as he was just 12 of 19 passing for 104 yards. But he finished without a touchdown pass for the second time in the past three games as his production continues to plummet in the second half. Over his past seven games, Weeden has just five touchdown passes to seven interceptions. Fantasy owners should rely on him as a worthwhile option in the majority of formats for the season finale regardless of his health.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmer told reporters folling his team's 34-12 loss to the Broncos in Week 16 that injured quarterback Brandon Weeden would be re-evaluated Monday. Weeden was knocked out of the contest in the third quarter after taking a big hit by Von Miller. He completed 12 of his 19 pass attempts for 104 yards prior to leaving the contest.
Analysis: Weeden will be looked at sometime Monday morning and will likely find himself on the injury report this week. Fantasy owners will have to keep an eye on his status moving forward to see if he will be able to suit up in Week 17. Still, Weeden has thrown 14 touchdowns and 17 interceptions this season and should not be starting in most formats, even if he is healthy enough to play against the Steelers.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was forced to leave Week 16 against the Broncos after suffering a right shoulder injury. Weeden took a big hit on a sack late in the third quarter and immediately left the game. He was taken back to the locker room for X-rays and did not return to the contest.
Analysis: Weeden looked to be in a great deal of discomfort when he left the game and was taken back to the locker room for X-rays. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward to see what the diagnosis is on the 29-year-old. He was 12 of 18 for 104 yards prior to leaving the game.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden has been much more productive on the road this season, which is where he will be playing his Week 16 matchup at Denver. Weeden, whose 3,281 passing yards are the most by a rookie in franchise history, is averaging 295 yards passing and has thrown nine touchdowns and five interceptions on the road this season compared to the 188.8 yards and five TDs and 12 INTs he has racked up at home thus far. He will be facing a Broncos defense that is allowing an average of 216 passing yards per contest. Denver has surrendered 24 TDs through the air while yielding 16.7 Fantasy points to opposing QBs, which ranks 13th overall.
Analysis: Weeden has been surprising more efficient on the road this season than at home, which is rare, especially for a rookie. However, that trend could be bucked this week as he will be tested as a stingy Denver pass defense. The Broncos have surrendered six TDs and three INTs to opposing QBs over their past three games but have only allowed one opposing gunslinger to finish with more than 21 Fantasy points thus far. Weeden has only finished with more than 20 Fantasy points twice on the season and should be considered merely a low-end desperation play in deeper formats this week.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden did not have an inspiring afternoon Sunday during the Week 15 loss at home to Washington. Weeden's lone highlight was finding Travis Benjamin streaking down the sidelines for a 69-yard touchdown in broken coverage. Otherwise, Weeden did almost nothing positive in the game. He finished 21 of 35 for 244 yards with the touchdown and two interceptions. His quarterback rating finished at 66.8. Weeden did rush once for 9 yards in the game.
Analysis: Weeden struggled all afternoon against what has been a poor Washington secondary. He did have that one gift touchdown in broken coverage, but Weeden now has three touchdown passes compared to five interceptions in his last four games for the Browns. Heading into Week 16 at Denver, Weeden is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden did not have an inspiring afternoon Sunday during the Week 15 loss at home to Washington. Weeden's lone highlight was finding Travis Benjamin streaking down the sidelines for a 69-yard touchdown in broken coverage. Otherwise, Weeden did almost nothing positive in the game. He finished 21 of 35 for 244 yards with the touchdown and two interceptions. His quarterback rating finished at 66.8.
Analysis: Weeden struggled all afternoon against what has been a poor Washington secondary. He did have that one gift touchdown in broken coverage, but Weeden now has three touchdown passes compared to five interceptions in his last four games for the Browns. Heading into Week 16 at Denver, Weeden is not a recommended Fantasy option at this time.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden threw for just 217 yards his last time out but should be able to move the ball in Week 15 against the Redskins. Washington ranks 31st in the league in pass defense, giving up over 289 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 21 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Weeden has already set the Cleveland rookie records for wins (five) and passing yards (3,037) as he has made some solid progress in his first year in the NFL. He has been picked off just five times in the previous seven games and has thrown six touchdown passes over that span. Still, the 29-year-old is too inconsistent to trust in the majority of Fantasy leagues so keep him reserved in all but the deepest of formats for Week 15.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was unable to find the end zone in Week 14 against the Chiefs, but he took care of the ball in a 30-7 win. Weeden completed 17 of 30 passes in the game for 217 yards, but was held without a touchdown for the first time since Week 9. He also avoided throwing an interception in a game for just the fifth time in 13 games. He added one rush for 15 yards.
Analysis: Weeden has had an up-and-down rookie season so far, and the overall numbers point to a mediocre quarterback at this point in his career. He has 13 touchdowns and 15 interceptions in 13 games, while averaging 233.6 passing yards per game. He could be in line for one of his best games in Week 15, as the Browns get set to host the Redskins. Quarterbacks have loved the sight of the Redskins on the schedule, as are surrendering 295.4 passing yards per game, with 26 passing touchdowns in 13 games. Still, Weeden should be left for just the deepest of Fantasy formats, even with a good matchup.
News: With just four games remaining in his rookie season, Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden is hoping to finish the season strong. That task begins in Week 14 against the Chiefs, one of the league’s worst passing defenses. Weeden, who has 13 touchdowns and 15 interceptions through the first 12 games of his career, does not expect to hit the proverbial rookie wall as the season winds down, as he remains motivated despite a 4-8 record. “We're playing these last four games for the last four games,” he told reporters Thursday. “I think attitudes have been great. That's all you can ask, especially this late in the year. Some guys will hit a wall, but I don't see it. We're hungry and it makes it more fun to come to work every day." Weeden needs one more 300-yard performance this season to match Brian Sipe's franchise record of four in one season.
Analysis: Weeden has endured an up-and-down campaign in his first year in the league, and he seems to be scuffling a bit as of late. He has four touchdowns and five interceptions over the last four games, however the Chiefs could be the cure for what ails him. After being lit up for 300-plus all-purpose yards and three touchdowns last week against the Panthers, Kansas City is allowing opposing quarterbacks to total 22.3 Fantasy points per game. That ranks them in a tie for the second-worst mark in the league. Fantasy owners looking for a low-end option to take a flier on late in the season can do worse than Weeden against this defense in Week 14.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden shook off a head injury to start in Week 13 against the Raiders and had a productive performance. After throwing for just 150 yards through the first two quarters, he ended up completing 25 of 36 passes for a career-high 364 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in the 20-17 win. He was picked off twice in the first half but hooked up Josh Gordon on a 44-yard scoring strike before halftime. Weeden, who also gained 11 yards on five carries, posted an 88.2 passer rating in the victory. "That was kind of a statement," Weeden said. "We strung together a lot of really good plays. That shows the potential we have as an offense, and that's encouraging. We had a lot of guys make different plays."
Analysis: Weeden has a 13-to-14 touchdown-to-interception ratio through his first 12 games in the NFL and is 180 yards away from 3,000. He is a bit more advanced than a rookie at age 29 but the learning curve as still been a rough one for the former baseball player. Weeden should be able to put up decent numbers again in Week 14 against the Chiefs but remains more of a low-end Fantasy option in deeper formats at this point.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden has been ruled active for Week 13 against the Raiders and will start. He was replaced by Colt McCoy after suffering a head injury a week ago.
Analysis: Weeden has thrown 12 TD passes and 13 interceptions, and his 55.9 completion percentage is 32nd in the league as is his 70.9 passer rating. Oakland is permitting an average of 23.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this year, but Weeden should not be viewed as a reliable option outside of deeper formats for Week 13.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden was listed as probable for Week 13 at Oakland as he continues to move past a head injury he suffered in his previous game. Weeden was cleared to practice Wednesday, three days after sustaining the first concussion of his football career. The 29-year-old was limited during the workout before returning to full status the previous two days. He is expected to start Sunday's game when the Browns attempt to snap a 12-game road losing streak against a Raiders team allowing 247.8 passing yards per game.
Analysis: Weeden didn't appear to have any restrictions during practice this week as he threw passes with the customary zip on the ball and moved around without any problems. Afterward, Weeden said he's been symptom free for several days. For the season, the rookie has thrown 12 TD passes and 13 interceptions, and his 55.9 completion percentage is 32nd in the league as is his 70.9 passer rating. Oakland is permitting an average of 23.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this year, but Weeden should not be viewed as a reliable option outside of deeper formats for Week 13.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur said Thursday quarterback Brandon Weeden looked fine at practice Wednesday as he took all the first-team reps. Shurmur added Weeden was listed as limited on the injury report because of the reporting rules with respect to Weeden coming off a concussion sustained Week 12. Weeden is expected to start Week 13 at Oakland.
Analysis: It's good to see Weeden didn't sustain a major injury Week 12 and it doesn't appear he will miss any playing time. However, his continues to be inconsistent and remains an unreliable Fantasy option. He is just a desperation Fantasy start in deeper formats Week 13.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur said Wednesday quarterback Brandon Weeden, who suffered a concussion late in the game Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh, has been cleared to practice and the team is preparing for him to start Week 13 at Oakland. "We're moving ahead with Brandon," said Shurmur, who added backup Colt McCoy isn't expected to see many reps in practice this week.
Analysis: Weeden didn't appear to suffer a severe head injury Sunday, but the league has strict protocols these days when it comes to concussions, so Cleveland had to err on the side of caution. It appears as though barring an unforeseen setback, Weeden will be under center Week 13. However, he continues to be inconsistent for Fantasy owners, so Weeden has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur didn't offer up much of an update Monday on the status of quarterback Brandon Weeden, who sustained a concussion late in the game Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh. Shurmur said Weeden is going through NFL concussion protocol and wouldn't say if he went through any physical activity Monday. Shurmur also wouldn't commit to Weeden's status for Week 13 at Oakland. Colt McCoy would start if Weeden is unable. "I've got all the confidence in the world in Colt," Shurmur said.
Analysis: Most players who sustain concussions these days are held out at least one game, but Weeden's head injury didn't seem severe and Shurmur said after the game his quarterback was responsive. It's not out of the realm of possibility for Weeden to play Week 13 if he passes the concussion protocols. Even if he plays, Weeden would be just a low-end Fantasy option in deeper formats. McCoy would not be a recommended Fantasy option if he replaces Weeden.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden left the game in the fourth quarter Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh after sustaining a head injury on an incomplete pass to Josh Gordon on a 3rd-down play with 5:24 left. CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports Weeden is expected to be fine and his removal was precautionary, according to a league source. Coach Pat Shurmur said Weeden was responsive after the game. "He's good. We had a good conversation," Shurmur said. "He's being treated for a concussion, but we'll see where that goes. Some guys come back quickly, some guys don't. So, we'll just see have to see where that's at. He was responsive." The Browns didn't immediately release Weeden's injury and said he was taken to the locker room for further evaluation. He was later ruled out with a head injury. Colt McCoy replaced Weeden, who completed 17 of 26 passes for 158 yards, one touchdown and one interception before getting injured. His touchdown was a 5-yard pass to Jordan Cameron in the second quarter.
Analysis: Weeden was held to one or no touchdown pass for the sixth time this season Sunday. He continues to have an up-and-down rookie campaign. Perhaps if he was surrounded by better talent, then Weeden would be a more reliable Fantasy quarterback. But he continues to be a low-end Fantasy reserve because of his inconsistent stat lines. He does have a favorable matchup Week 13 at Oakland, but Weeden is just a potential starting option in deeper formats, if active. McCoy would likely start in his absence if he is sidelined.
News: The Steelers haven't allowed a quarterback to record a passing touchdown in three straight games. Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden has the task Week 12 of trying to bring that streak to an end. The rookie quarterback ended a personal scoring slump Week 11 at Dallas, throwing for two touchdowns after failing to throw for a touchdown in his previous two games. Quarterbacks average 179 passing yards and 12.4 Fantasy points per week against Pittsburgh, which is the fourth-lowest average in the league.
Analysis: Weeden has played like a rookie quarterback in 2012. He has had some good starts, but it's mostly been an up-and-down experience. He is averaging 229.8 passing yards and is 2-8 as a starter. He also has more interceptions (12) than passing touchdowns (11). Weeden throws a pretty deep pass, but he has been plagued by poor decision making in 2012. Coach Pat Shurmur called him out for the latter prior to Week 11 and the rookie responded positively. He didn't throw an interception and made smart decisions to throw the ball away under pressure. He will look to build off that performance Sunday, but the Steelers are a tough matchup. Weeden is just a desperation Fantasy start.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden played turnover-free football and put Cleveland ahead 20-17 with 1:07 left to play Week 11 at Dallas, however, the Cowboys tied the game with 2 seconds left and stole a victory from the Browns in overtime, spoiling Weeden's heroics. Weeden hit Benjamin Watson with a 17-yard touchdown pass with 67 seconds left to put Cleveland in the driver's seat. It was the second time Weeden found Watson for a score Sunday. The duo also hooked up on a 10-yard scoring play in the first quarter. Weeden finished 20 of 35 for 210 yards. It was his fifth multi-passing touchdown performance this season. Weeden also managed to avoid throwing an interception for the fourth time this season.
Analysis: During the week, Browns coach Pat Shurmur said his rookie quarterback needed to do a better job of not throwing interceptions. Weeden seemed to get the message Sunday. He didn't make many ill-advised throws and gave his team a great chance to win. Unfortunately, the Browns couldn't hold a 13-0 halftime lead, losing 23-20 in overtime. Sunday could prove as a good confidence builder for Weeden, but the Steelers are up next in Week 12 and that won't be an easy matchup. Weeden will be just a desperation Fantasy start.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden (groin, thigh) is active and starting Week 11 at Dallas. He was probable on the injury report.
Analysis: fter three straight games of throwing for multiple touchdowns, Weeden hasn't thrown a touchdown pass in his last two games and has been held under 200 passing yards in each contest as well. The Cowboys will be no easy task. Quarterbacks average 226.6 passing yards and 14.4 Fantasy points per week, which is the seventh-lowest average in the league. Also, only one quarterback -- Jay Cutler -- has thrown multiple touchdowns against Dallas. Weeden is merely a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement Week 11.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden (groin, thigh) practiced in full all week and is listed as probable for Sunday's contest against the Cowboys in Week 11. Weeden hasn't had a lot of success against the NFC East this season. He will look to change his fortunes Week 11 at Dallas. He has lost to the Eagles and Giants this season, while completing just 48.6 percent of his passes (34 of 70) for 409 yards, two touchdowns and six interceptions. The Cowboys will be no easy task. Quarterbacks average 226.6 passing yards and 14.4 Fantasy points per week, which is the seventh-lowest average in the league. Also, only one quarterback -- Jay Cutler -- has thrown multiple touchdowns against Dallas.
Analysis: After three straight games of throwing for multiple touchdowns, Weeden hasn't thrown a touchdown pass in his last two games and has been held under 200 passing yards in each contest as well. He probably welcomed the bye in Week 10 to give himself a chance to regroup. Although, the Cowboys present quite the challenge Week 11. Weeden is playing like a rookie quarterback, experiencing the ups and downs of the NFL. However, he has done a fairly good job given the talent around him. And you can see he has the skills to compete in the NFL. Weeden can sling the football around and has great accuracy on his deep passes. It's just that the Browns' receiving corps is nothing to write home about and Weeden still needs to improve on his decision making. Healthy or not, Weeden is merely a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement Week 11.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden hasn't had a lot of success against the NFC East this season. He will look to change his fortunes Week 11 at Dallas. Weeden has lost to the Eagles and Giants this season, while completing just 48.6 percent of his passes (34 of 70) for 409 yards, two touchdowns and six interceptions. The Cowboys will be no easy task. Quarterbacks average 226.6 passing yards and 14.4 Fantasy points per week, which is the seventh-lowest average in the league. Also, only one quarterback -- Jay Cutler -- has thrown multiple touchdowns against Dallas.
Analysis: After three straight games of throwing for multiple touchdowns, Weeden hasn't thrown a touchdown pass in his last two games and has been held under 200 passing yards in each contest as well. He probably welcomed the bye in Week 10 to give himself a chance to regroup. Although, the Cowboys present quite the challenge Week 11. Weeden is playing like a rookie quarterback, experiencing the ups and downs of the NFL. However, he has done a fairly good job given the talent around him. And you can see he has the skills to compete in the NFL. Weeden can sling the football around and has great accuracy on his deep passes. It's just that the Browns' receiving corps is nothing to write home about and Weeden still needs to improve on his decision making. Weeden is merely a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement Week 11.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden completed 20 of his 37 passes for 176 yards and no touchdowns during the Browns' 25-15 loss to Baltimore in Week 9. Weeden, who also recorded two interceptions, enters the bye week having finished with less than 200 yards passing and no touchdowns in his last two games. His 54.1 completion percentage marked the fifth time in nine outings this season he finished below 60 percent.
Analysis: Weeden connected with seven different receivers as he capably spread the ball around the field, but he continues to be limited by meager yardage totals recently. All of the progress he showed during the early part of October seems to have disintegrated as he now has gone back-to-back games without a touchdown pass for the first time this season. Fantasy owners shouldn't rely on Weeden as a reliable option in the majority of formats following the team's upcoming bye when they square off against Dallas on the road in Week 11.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden is active for Week 9 against Baltimore after being listed as probable on the injury report with injuries to his groin and thigh. Weeden, who leads all AFC rookies with nine touchdown passes this season, was a full participant in practice last week.
Analysis: Weeden enjoyed a solid showing in his first game against the Ravens this season and registered 320 passing yards despite completing just 48.1 percent of his attempts. Baltimore has experienced some turnover in its secondary since that game, but is yielding an average of only 13.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Week 9 might be an ideal time to keep Weeden on the bench in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden has not only impressed coaches with his productivity during the last three games that includes the Browns' first two wins of the season, but he is also developing a leadership role under center. Weeden, who leads all AFC rookies with nine touchdown passes this season, has passed for 624 yards with four touchdowns and only one interception in that three-game stretch. "We’ve seen the improvement in Brandon that he needs to make," coach Pat Shurmur said. "You’ve just got to continue to improve and work. Some of the things around you, you can’t control. What you can control is how you play and lead your team."
Analysis: Weeden (groin, thigh) is currently listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 9 against Baltimore, but is expected to play after he was a full participant in practice throughout the past week. He enjoyed a solid showing in his first game against the Ravens this season and registered 320 passing yards despite completing just 48.1 percent of his attempts. Baltimore has experienced some turnover in its secondary since that game, but is yielding an average of only 13.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. Week 9 might be an ideal time to keep Weeden on the bench in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden entered Week 8 against the Chargers looking to keep his string of solid performances going. Unfortunately, the weather in Cleveland refused to help out, as a fierce wind and rainstorm made passing the ball a shaky prospect at best for both sides. Weeden completed just 11 of 27 passes for 129 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. Weeden managed to avoid making any mistakes, which was enough for the Browns to earn a 7-6 win. Weeden finished with a 55.9 passer rating in the game.
Analysis: Weeden was riding a three-game, multi-touchdown streak and was coming off arguably his best performance yet in Week 7 against the Colts. It is hard to blame him for the performance this week, as the weather affected both quarterbacks in the game. The Browns’ receiving corps’ issues with dropped passes continued unabated as well, which certainly is not helping the rookie passer. The Browns will take on the Ravens in Week 9, a team Weeden has faced once before this season. He passed for 320 yards in Week 4 against Baltimore, but failed to find the end zone in the game. The Ravens are allowing just 13.1 Fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, the fifth-lowest total in the league. Weeden should be considered just a low-end Fantasy option for Week 9 against Baltimore.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden seems to be figuring things out as his first NFL season goes on, as he has thrown multiple touchdowns in three consecutive games. He has a good chance to keep that streak going in Week 8 against the Chargers, a team whose passing defense has completely disappeared recently. After allowing only two touchdowns in the first two games of the season, the Chargers have surrendered multiple scores through the air in each of the last four games for a total of 12. The Chargers rank just 25th in the league in passing yards allowed, and opposing quarterbacks have topped 250 yards through the air in five of six games.
Analysis: Weeden has clearly begun playing better, which bodes very well against a Chargers team that is simultaneously struggling. The Browns running game has been subpar over the last few games, which makes Weeden’s performance all the more impressive. He is averaging 262 passing yards over the last three games, while completing 60.9 percent of his passes. The Chargers rank 28th in the league in Fantasy points allowed to opposing quarterbacks, at 23.0 per game. Weeden has emerged as a surprisingly productive Fantasy quarterback, and is worth starting as a low-end option in most Fantasy formats against the Chargers in Week 8.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden did all he could to attempt to defeat fellow rookie quarterback Andrew Luck and the Colts in Indianapolis on Sunday of Week 7. Unfortunately, Weeden's wide-open bomb to Josh Gordon late in the game was dropped and the Colts held on to win. Weeden finished 25 for 41 for 264 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. He hit Greg Little for a 14-yard TD in the second quarter and did connect with Gordon on a 33-yard score in the third. Weeden rushed once for 13 yards and had a quarterback rating of 96.0 in the game.
Analysis: The most impressive thing about Weeden's performance against Luck and the Colts in the Week 7 game was his ability not to turn the ball over. Weeden has now had solid production in three straight games with six touchdowns and three picks over that span. The Browns' young receivers are beginning to play better and Weeden is benefiting from that nicely. The Browns play against San Diego next week and Weeden could be active in a pinch for your Fantasy team in deeper and two-quarterback leagues.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden is active and starting the Week 7 game at Indianapolis after being a full participant in practice for the third consecutive day Friday. Weeden should not have any trouble with his foot injury in the game against the Colts. Weeden has been playing well lately and has four touchdown passes in his last two games and has thrown for 522 yards over that span with an 88.2 passer rating. That bodes well heading into a game against a team struggling to stop the passing game. The Colts have allowed five passing touchdowns with just one interception the last two weeks heading into Week 7.
Analysis: Weeden has actually thrown for 1,519 yards to this point, which is the second-highest total in NFL history by a rookie after six games behind only Cam Newton. He's been excellent over his last two contests and his 71-yard touchdown pass last week was the second-longest touchdown pass by a rookie in Cleveland team history. He is tied for the AFC rookie lead with seven TD passes with the Colts' Andrew Luck. Heading into the game against Luck's team, Weeden can be considered a decent reserve Fantasy quarterback option.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was a full participant in practice for the third consecutive day and is expected to play Week 7 at Indianapolis, despite dealing with a foot injury. Weeden has been playing well lately and has four touchdown passes in his last two games and has thrown for 522 yards over that span with an 88.2 passer rating. That bodes well heading into a game against a team struggling to stop the passing game. The Colts have allowed five passing touchdowns with just one interception the last two weeks heading into Week 7.
Analysis: Weeden has actually thrown for 1,519 yards to this point, which is the second-highest total in NFL history by a rookie after six games behind only Cam Newton. He's been excellent over his last two contests and his 71-yard touchdown pass last week was the second-longest touchdown pass by a rookie in Cleveland team history. He is tied for the AFC rookie lead with seven TD passes with the Colts' Andrew Luck. Heading into the game against Luck's team, Weeden can be considered a decent reserve Fantasy quarterback option heading into Week 7.
News: Cleveland rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden has actually been pretty good of late heading into Week 7 at Indianapolis. Weeden has four touchdown passes in his last two games and has thrown for 522 yards over that span with an 88.2 passer rating. That bodes well heading into a game against a team struggling to stop the passing game. The Colts have allowed five passing touchdowns with just one interception the last two weeks heading into Week 7.
Analysis: Weeden has actually thrown for 1,519 yards to this point, which is the second-highest total in NFL history by a rookie after six games behind only Cam Newton. He's been excellent over his last two contests and his 71-yard touchdown pass last week was the second-longest touchdown pass by a rookie in Cleveland team history. He is tied for the AFC rookie lead with seven TD passes with the Colts' Andrew Luck. Heading into the game against Luck's team, Weeden can be considered a decent No. 2 Fantasy QB option.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden finally has his first NFL win under his belt after his performance Week 6. Weeden led the Browns to the team's first win of the season Sunday at home against the Bengals. Making up for a Week 2 loss to Cincinnati, Weeden's 3-yard touchdown pass to Benjamin Watson in the fourth quarter basically iced the game. Weeden's biggest play of the game was a 71-yard strike to Josh Gordon in the second quarter. He finished 17 for 29 for 231 yards with two touchdowns and one pick. Weeden added 4 yards rushing on three carries.
Analysis: When all was said and done Sunday, Weeden's final numbers did not even represent his best game of the season. In fact, he's been consistently mediocre and that is exactly how his Week 6 should be described. Leading Cleveland to the team's first win was certainly impressive, but Weeden is still not a great Fantasy start for Week 7 at Indianapolis.
News: Cleveland rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden heads into Week 6 against Cincinnati with some experience against the Bengals. He will face a team for the second time for the first time in his career when he matches up with Cincinnati. Weeden went 26 for 37 for 322 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions Week 2 against them, easily the best effort of his career to this point.
Analysis: Weeden has been showing some improvement lately for the Browns, though his five touchdowns compared to nine interceptions definitely leaves a lot to be desired. The Browns have not been a consistent or good team this season and Weeden has not really been a reliable Fantasy option. Cincinnati kept Ryan Tannehill down last week and Weeden shouldn't do much better. Consider him a last-resort in Fantasy in two quarterback leagues.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden threw two more costly interceptions and the Browns fell to 0-5 during a 41-27 loss Week 5 at N.Y. Giants. Both of Weeden's interceptions came deep inside Giants' territory, with the last one coming in the end zone in the fourth quarter. Weeden finished 22 of 35 for 291 yards and two touchdowns. His first touchdown was a 62-yard completion to Josh Gordon in the first quarter that put Cleveland up 14-0. His last touchdown also went to Gordon in the fourth quarter for a 20-yard completion to finish the scoring. It was the second multi-touchdown game of his career and third multi-interception game.
Analysis: Weeden got off to a great start Sunday, but then the Giants made some defensive adjustments and Weeden began to play like a rookie quarterback again. Weeden throws the ball a lot, mostly because the Browns always seem to be trailing. It's just that he has way more interceptions (nine) than touchdown passes (five), and that's not good for his Fantasy appeal. He is still not a recommended Fantasy start heading into Week 6 vs. Cincinnati.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden will face an NFC East opponent for the second time in his career Week 5 at N.Y. Giants. He will be aiming for better results after the first time he faced an NFC East opponent didn't go so well. Weeden completed just 12 of 35 passes for 118 yards and four interceptions in his first NFL start Week 1 vs. Philadelphia. The Giants have forced six interceptions through four games and are yielding 18.5 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks. However, quarterbacks have totaled one passing touchdown and three interceptions the last two games against New York.
Analysis: The good news for Weeden is that this week's game is on the road, where he has been much better this season. He is completing 57.3 percent of his passes (51 for 89) for 642 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in two road games. The bad news is that the Giants have done well limiting Cam Newton and Michael Vick the last two weeks despite a banged up secondary, and both of those players are better quarterbacks than Weeden. The rookie quarterback still has a long ways to go in his development, so he is not a recommended Fantasy start Week 5.
News: For the second time in his short career, Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden took to the road for a Thursday night matchup in Baltimore in Week 4. Weeden, who passed for 300 yards in his first road game against the Bengals, topped the 300-yard mark yet again Thursday, passing for 320 yards on 52 attempts, in a 23-16 loss. Weeden completed just 25 of 52 passes in the game, and had no touchdown passes, but he was within striking distance of the end zone on the final play of the game, but was unable to complete any of his multiple attempts at scoring as the clock winded down. He had a costly pick in the game, as Ravens defensive back Cary Williams picked him off at the end of the third quarter and returned it 63 yards for what ultimately proved to be the game-winning touchdown.
Analysis: Weeden has seven interceptions in his first four NFL games, all losses, as the Browns have been forced to have him throw more than they might have hoped. Weeden has now attempted 167 passes through four games, an average of 41.75 per game, putting him on pace for 668 as a rookie, which would be the third-highest total in NFL history. It would be a shock to see him maintain that kind of pace, though the Browns will have to get a lead at some point this season to be able to sit on the ball with the running game. Weeden has 997 yards passing with a 53.9 completion percentage, though he has not been helped by a receiving corps that has led the NFL in drops throughout the season. Weeden will be on the road once again in Week 5, as the team travels to New York to take on the Giants. They will likely be forced to pass plenty in that game, however Weeden will almost certainly struggle against the Giants’ fearsome pass rush, so consider him nothing more than a desperation start for Week 5.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden has gotten off to a rough start to his NFL career, with more interceptions than touchdowns in two of his three games so far, and his coach thinks he knows why. "When you get opportunities to throw the ball down field you have to hit on them," Pat Shurmur told The Plain Dealer. "It's a combination of things between the quarterback and the receivers. I would say it's safe to say we are taking more of those shots this year than we did last year. Now, we have to hit on them. You only get couple of them a game, the ones you get you got to hit on." Weeden has gone 0 for 9 on passes where the ball has traveled at least 21 yards through three games, with three interceptions, and with Ravens safety Ed Reed looming for Thursday’s matchup during Week 4, Weeden will have to be much sharper on those big-play tries.
Analysis: The Ravens have not been as stout as expected so far this season, allowing 309 yards per game through the air while partaking in a surprising number of shootouts through their first three games, so this might be a good opportunity for Weeden to figure some things out. Of course, this is also a Ravens defense that has been one of the top units in the league for more than a decade, so they might be better than those statistics indicated, especially when faced with an inexperience passer. Weeden is still figuring out what it takes to quarterback in the NFL, so Fantasy owners should plan on avoiding him in all formats except as a sleeper start in deeper formats for Week 4 at Baltimore.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden threw two crucial fourth-quarter interceptions, and Cleveland fell to 0-3 after losing 24-14 to the Bills in Week 3. Both of Weeden's interceptions came on the team's final two drives. He would have had a third interception, but it was called back because of a penalty. He completed 27 of 43 passes for 237 yards and one touchdown. He was sacked four times. Weeden's lone touchdown pass was a 22-yard strike to Travis Benjamin in the third quarter, which cut the deficit to 17-14. Weeden now has three touchdowns and six interceptions in his first three games.
Analysis: Weeden doesn't like playing at home. He has one touchdown and six interceptions in two home games, as opposed to two touchdowns and no interception in his lone road game. We hope that is a trend that doesn't continue since Cleveland plays half of its games at home. Weeden definitely is playing like a rookie quarterback and is having some growing pains. It doesn't get any easier in Week 4 at Baltimore. The Ravens have a very good defense, so Weeden is not a recommended Fantasy start.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden is still looking for his first NFL victory heading into Week 3 against the Bills. Although he lost again Week 2 at Cincinnati, Weeden turned in a much better performance than his Week 1 debut, when he tossed four interceptions. Weeden threw for 322 yards and two touchdowns against Cincinnati. The Bills are yielding 24 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is tied for fifth highest in the NFL. Both Mark Sanchez and Matt Cassel have thrown for multiple touchdowns against the Bills.
Analysis: After a horrid Week 1 performance, it really only could have gotten better for Weeden. Although, no one expected such a quick turnaround and against a respectable defense. There could be hope for Weeden and the Browns yet. Still, we need a few more steady performances from Weeden before he becomes a reliable Fantasy start. He is merely a sleeper start for the deepest of Fantasy formats Week 3.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden played marvelously in a loss at Cincinnati on Sunday, completing 25 of 35 passes for 318 yards with a pair of touchdowns. He began the game playing tentatively but got up to speed once his offensive line held off the Bengals' pass rush. His first score was on a fortuitous dump-off pass to Trent Richardson, who rumbled 23 yards for the score. His second was a perfect dart down the middle of the field to Greg Little, who broke open on a post route for an easy touchdown.
Analysis: Weeden's rebound from a four-interception game was incredible, though he was helped in big part by his running backs as Chris Ogbonnaya had 73 yards on six catches and Richardson pulled in 36 yards on four grabs. Once he gets in better rhythm with his wideouts he could start putting up some amazing totals. He'll take on a Bills pass defense that allowed another two passing touchdowns and 301 yards to the Chiefs on Sunday. If you're despertate for a starter or just want to spend a roster spot on a quarterback with some upside, Weeden is available in 89 percent of CBSSports.com leagues.
News:Brandon Weeden could be in for another rough game Sunday, this time in his first road game at Cincinnati. The Bengals' secondary got scorched by Joe Flacco in Week 1 but Flacco's a more established passer with better weapons. There's also the fact that opposing passers have thrown two touchdowns in 7 of the Bengals' last 10 regular-season games, but many of those were without cornerback Leon Hall and involved some quality passers. Weeden completed 12 of 35 passes for 118 yards and four interceptions against the Eagles in Week 1.
Analysis: Weeden simply doesn't have the weapons around him nor the chops to be considered a reliable Fantasy option. Playing at home vs. Buffalo in Week 3 might produce a decent result. For now we can't expect big stats from him so leave him out of active lineups.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden had a forgettable debut on Sunday against the Eagles, completing 12 of 35 passes for 118 yards. He threw four interceptions and was sacked twice.
Analysis: Weeden actually looked decent on his first drive, which led to a 43-yard field goal. But it got ugly incredibly fast, as he frequently overthrew receivers and passed the ball into the hands of waiting defenders. If there was any bright side to the game for him, it's that Weeden didn't get hurt. And he also seems to have developed some kind of a rapport with Travis Benjamin (six targets) and Mohamed Massaquoi (eight targets). Owned in just 13 percent of leagues, Weeden's ownership numbers will likely drop heading into Week 2, when he faces the Bengals. He has potential to be a solid starting quarterback, but another disastrous start could have fans -- who were lustily booing the team in the second quarter after another deep overthrow of Massaquoi -- calling for Colt McCoy. Weeden should not be started in any leagues right now, but watch his second start closely; if he connects with Massaquoi, Benjamin, or even Josh Gordon on some of those deep passes, his numbers could look very different in Week 2.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden, a 28 year-old rookie out of Oklahoma State, will look to start Cleveland's season off on the right foot against the Eagles in Week 1. The Browns don't have a receiving corps that inspires a ton of confidence -- just two players in 2011 had more than 500 receiving yards, and this year's top two on the depth chart, Greg Little and Mohamed Massaquoi, combined for four touchdowns and 1,093 yards on 92 receptions. The silver lining? Coach Pat Shurmur likes to pass. Last year, the Browns were 11th in the NFL in passing attempts. In 2010, Shurmur was the Offensive Coordinator for Sam Bradford's rookie campaign in St. Louis, a season that ended with Bradford throwing for 3,512 yards and 18 touchdowns. The downside to this? No receiver that year hit 700 yards. Weeden owners, however, should only be concerned with Shumur's willingness to air it out; as long as the ball lands in a receiver's hands, it doesn't matter who that receiver is.
Analysis: The downside to all of this is that the Eagles -- and Nnamdi Asomugha in particular -- boast one of the NFL's best secondaries, and are motivated after a disappointing 2011. Asomugha is still an elite talent, and the Eagles defense ranked 10th in the NFL in passing yards allowed, with an average 212 yards allowed per game. Weeden had a quiet preseason, with 297 total yards and no touchdowns. He fumbled three times and lost two of them. In Cleveland's third preseason game, the Eagles held Weeden to 9 of 20 passing for 117 yards, and sacked him three times, causing two of his preseason fumbles. Weeden, who had an ADP of 163.08, may develop into a decent second quarterback by the end of the season, but he will have some growing pains, making him an inadvisable start against a solid Eagles defense.
News: Cleveland quarterback Brandon Weeden did not start in the preseason finale against Chicago but remains the starter for the Browns entering Week 1 against Philadelphia. Weeden was on the field Thursday working up a sweat and throwing to first-team wide receivers, reports the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram.
Analysis: Weeden wasn't sharp his last time out in the preseason against the Eagles, going 9 for 20 for 117 yards with three sacks taken. Weeden has not thrown a TD pass this preseason with one interception. That could be an indication of how he plays Week 1 against the Eagles, which have an excellent secondary. He's only worth a late-round flier on Draft Day, and isn't an advisable start Week 1 in most Fantasy formats.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden struggled in his third preseason game Friday, completing just 9 of 20 passes for 117 yards against the Eagles. Weeden started the game well, completing his first four passes for 66 yards on the first drive, but he fumbled in the red zone to end that drive. He went 5 for 16 from that point, and was consistently harassed by an Eagles’ pass rush that the Browns could not contain. He has yet to throw a touchdown pass in his first three games as a professional, despite getting the start and working with the first-team offense in all three.
Analysis: As an advanced 28-year-old rookie, Weeden was expected to pick things up quicker than some of the other first-round signal callers, but he was not even the best rookie quarterback on the field in this game. He has disappointed so far in the regular season, completing just 48.9 percent of his passes through three games, with one interception. Weeden does not have much help around him on offense, but he is also displaying some bad tendencies that make it very difficult for Fantasy owners to trust him as a rookie. He is assured the starting quarterback role in Cleveland, but he should probably be left for a reserve role in most Fantasy formats, making him only worthy of taking a flier on late on Draft Day.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden was pleased with his effort on the final day of training camp Wednesday. "We ran a lot of plays I enjoy running and that I'm comfortable with," he said. "On the flip side, the guys ran great routes to areas I can throw the ball firmly to and make a play. This was my best day of camp, if I can say that without watching the tape."
Analysis: Weeden hasn't had an outstanding preseason, completing 15 of 29 passes for 180 yards and one interception. However, he is a rookie quarterback and will certainly have some growing pains. His starting job with the Browns isn't in jeopardy, and it does seem his confidence is growing. He still has a suspect receiving corps in Cleveland, so his upside might be limited. Weeden was a great quarterback in college, but let's see how he does in the pros before jumping on the bandwagon. He is at best a reserve Fantasy quarterback on Draft Day and shouldn't be taken until the late rounds.
News: Cleveland rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden showed improvement in his second preseason game, avoiding some of the trouble he found last week, as the Browns beat the Packers 35-10 at Lambeau Field on Thursday night. Weeden finished 12 of 20 for 118 yards while playing the entire first half before being replaced by Colt McCoy. He said he feels he is making progress. "I think so," the first-round pick out of Oklahoma State said. "You've got to keep in mind last week was my first-ever start in the NFL, and it's just like a true freshman going into college and it's an even bigger jump coming up here. I didn't get down on myself about the way things went last week, and I just want to go out and get better, and I did that."
Analysis: Eliminating major mistakes was the top priority for Weeden, who was already named the team's starting quarterback. Browns coach Pat Shurmur said the Packers' defensive pressure was a good test for Weeden after he faced mostly a four-man rush against Detroit. "Today we played against a lot of pressure. So those are two different feels of the way the game goes, and I think Brandon got a chance to go through that," he said. Late in the second quarter, Weeden took a big shot from cornerback Brandian Ross, who came in unblocked on a blitz. Weeden got up slowly but stayed in. At 29, Weeden is being brought along quickly by Cleveland and is worth a late-round pick in Fantasy keeper leagues, but should be ignored in seasonal formats.
News: Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden looked a bit shaky during Friday's preseason opener against the Lions. Weeden, who was named the team's starter earlier in the week, completed just three of his nine pass attempts in the contest for 62 yards. He also turned the ball over twice during his three offensive series, including losing a fumble while being sacked. Weeden also threw an interception on his final throw of the night, which led to a Detroit touchdown. "I know my numbers didn't look good, but I'm not a numbers guy," said Weeden, the 22nd pick in the NFL draft. "This was my first time out, and there was some good and some bad."
Analysis: Weeden was able to complete his first two passes of the night, but struggled after Cleveland's first offense series. Still, the rookie did make some nice throws during his first real taste of NFL action and should continue to get more comfortable with every rep his takes. While the 29-year-old will have some nice weapons at his disposal this season -- Trent Richardson, Greg Little -- his lack of pro experience will continue to limit his Fantasy value. We wouldn't draft Weeden in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur named Brandon Weeden the team's starting quarterback Monday. Weeden, the team's first-round draft pick, beat out Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace for the job in less than two weeks of training camp. He had emerged recently as the Browns' best quarterback according to multiple reports.
Analysis: Weeden will be at the helm of an improved offense featuring a dynamic rusher in Trent Richardson, a good offensive line and some young unheralded receiving talent including Greg Little. His lack of pro experience and age (he turns 29 in October) keep him from being a guy we'd consider as even a strong No. 2 Fantasy quarterback but he's got a solid cannon for an arm and the smarts to work in a West Coast style of offense. He might be fun to watch in the preseason and could end up having some big games in 2012 but probably not enough to warrant use in standard leagues. We would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: The inconsistency that marked the first few days of Browns training camp for rookie QB Brandon Weeden has vanished. The sharpness he displayed in minicamp has reappeared. Weeden has emerged as clearly the most accurate mid-range and deep passer of the trio allegedly battling for the starting spot. He could be named the starter before the first preseason game next Saturday in Detroit.
Analysis: It only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. He posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiving corps quite as good in the pros. And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense, which the Browns use, but with an inferior receiving corps he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora writes from Browns camp that rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden is expected to start. "There isn't anyone in this organization who doesn't think Weeden, the 22nd overall pick, will be the Week 1 starter," La Canfora writes. "Weeden looked raw in special situations early in camp, like the two-minute drill, but that's to be expected. No matter how much he struggles in camp and the preseason, I can't see him doing anything but starting the season on the field."
Analysis: It only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. He posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiving corps quite as good in the pros. And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense, which the Browns use, but with an inferior receiving corps he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur told the Cleveland Plain Dealer he could name a starting quarterback before too long. "I think it makes sense to name the starter well before the start of the season, and so that's probably what will happen," Shurmur said. "I've said all along sooner is better. I want to get all of the guys out here and watch them work again." Camp kicked off for the Browns this week as rookie Brandon Weeden and vet Colt McCoy are in competition for the starting quarterback gig.
Analysis: It only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. Weeden posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiver like Justin Blackmon in Cleveland (Greg Little compares to that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Browns team president Mike Holmgren likes what he sees from rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden so far. “He passes the ball very well, does it easily, has good velocity," Holmgren said. "But you can't discount his maturity. He’s as prepared to start as a rookie as any quarterback I’ve seen in a long time.”
Analysis: Weeden will likely start ahead of Colt McCoy, but he has a long way to go before Fantasy owners can count on him. We consider Weeden a low-end No. 2 Fantasy quarterback in seasonal leagues, and he should only be drafted with a late-round pick in deep formats. We would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden said Tuesday he hasn't gotten the impression he's the starter yet. Weeden is competing with Colt McCoy for the starting job. "I can't say that," Weeden said. "Even though I've getting a lot of reps with the 1's, and that's helped me, yhere's nothing set in stone until it's official." Only a terrible preseason performance or injury will keep Weeden from starting the opener.
Analysis: Weeden will likely start ahead of McCoy, but he has a long way to go before Fantasy owners can count on him. We consider Weeden a low-end No. 2 Fantasy quarterback in seasonal leagues, and he should only be drafted with a late-round pick in deep formats. We would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: In an interesting revelation, Browns head coach Pat Shurmur said Wednesday that he'd like to name a starting quarterback "sooner rather than later" and might name a guy before camp kicks off. Rookie Brandon Weeden has been mighty impressive so far in OTA workouts, displaying a strong arm and some good leadership qualities. Shurmur went through a similar process in St. Louis when the Rams went with another rookie, Sam Bradford, early on in camp. "Once we've made the decision that's the deal, I think you want to try to -- if you know that he's going to be your guy, then make it happen so everybody gets comfortable working with that guy all the time," Shurmur said according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Analysis: Considering that the Browns' other choices at quarterback are Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace, it only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. Weeden posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiver like Justin Blackmon in Cleveland (Greg Little isn't quite that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden took the first snaps in team drills Wednesday at OTAs, a departure from last week when Colt McCoy went first. The Browns have said they fully expect Weeden to be their starting quarterback this season, but that he must earn the job. McCoy, the starter for most of the last two seasons, has said that all he wants is a fair chance in the competition. Coach Pat Shurmur said not much should be read into Weeden taking the first snaps of team drills.
Analysis: It wouldn't be a surprise to see Weeden beat out McCoy, who has struggled as a starter in Cleveland. We consider Weeded a low-end No. 2 Fantasy quarterback in standard leagues if he wins the job. He would only be worth taking with a late-round pick in deeper formats. We would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Speaking before a banquet for Browns fans, general manager Tom Heckert said the team drafted quarterback Brandon Weeden out of Oklahoma State in the first round with the idea he would start in his first season. Heckert's comments came one day before the Browns hold their first organized training activities (OTAs), when Weeden and Colt McCoy will be on the field together for the first time. "You can write about it and talk about it however you want," Heckert said. "The best guy is going to play and we fully expect Brandon to be that guy. That's our goal is to have him be the guy. I think when we say, open competition, the best guy's going to play, that's just the way it is. But we drafted Brandon Weeden to be that guy. (You) draft a guy 22nd in the draft, you think he's going to be that guy."
Analysis: Considering that the Browns' other choices at quarterback are Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace, it only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. Weeden posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiver like Justin Blackmon in Cleveland (Greg Little isn't quite that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Browns coach Pat Shurmur didn't hide his optimism for rookie passer Brandon Weeden in the days following the team's rookie minicamp. Weeden displayed a strong arm in his first few practices with the team and should give the Browns a passer who can legitimately threaten defenses, which is something that's been missing for a few years. "There's no question I think he's headed in the right direction," Shurmur said according to the Akron Beacon-Journal. "He showed us in the first minicamp that he can throw the ball in this league, and now we'll get a chance to see him interact with the team, the full squad, and see how he does. ... I think he's extremely accurate. His strong arm really showed up in this minicamp. There's something natural about his play. He hadn't really thrown to these receivers before and to be able to throw somewhat precise routes and be very accurate, that was good to see.
Analysis: Considering that the Browns' other choices at quarterback are Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace, it only figures to be a matter of time before Weeden is officially named the starter. Weeden posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiver like Justin Blackmon in Cleveland (Greg Little isn't quite that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. We think Weeden has a good shot to oust McCoy and Wallace from the top spot. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: The Browns opened their rookie minicamp with quarterback Brandon Weeden taking snaps under center -- a big deal for him considering he played in the shotgun often as a senior in college. Throwing to fellow rookies and some second-year players, Weeden showed off a strong arm albeit with some inaccuracy. While Weeden prides himself on his accuracy and will fix what he messed up on, it was evident that his arm is much stronger than Colt McCoy's. "When I got to the college level I really took a lot of pride in it -- accuracy," he said. "I think today I threw the ball fairly accurate, not as good as I can, but it will get better. I have been blessed to be able to throw the football. Even when I played baseball, I through the football every single year, it's been in my blood."
Analysis: Weeden posted big stats in college (and completed over 72 percent of his passes his senior year), but he won't have a receiver like Justin Blackmon in Cleveland (Greg Little isn't quite that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. We think Weeden has a good shot to oust McCoy and Wallace from the top spot. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: Just because the Browns spent a first-round pick on Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden doesn't mean he's going to be the starter in Week 1. That's according to Mike Holmgren, who says Weeden will have to beat out Colt McCoy and Seneca Wallace for the job in camp this summer. "We drafted a young quarterback that we think can come in and play right away, but we're not just going to hand him the football," Holmgren told 92.3 The Fan. "I still love Colt McCoy [but] we had a chance to get a mature quarterback who has a chance to come in and contribute right away. Whether that happens or not we have to let it play out. We have to let them compete. We have to let them play and see what happens. The fact that we drafted him so high means that we like him, but we also like Colt McCoy and we like Seneca as well."
Analysis: Weeden posted big stats in college throwing to Justin Blackmon, but he won't have a receiver quite like that in Cleveland (Greg Little isn't quite that guy). And he's much older than your typical rookie -- he turns 29 in October. We think Weeden has a good shot to oust McCoy and Wallace from the top spot. He's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News: The Browns made Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden theirs with their second pick in the first round. Throwing to fellow draft prospect Justin Blackmon over the last several seasons, Weeden was a first-team All-Big 12 performer in 2010 with 4,277 passing yards, 34 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, all while playing with a ruptured tendon in his thumb. He then threw for 4,727 yards and 37 touchdowns with 12 interceptions as a senior. Weeden was one of two players in the FBS to complete more than 400 passes and complete at least 72.4 percent of his passes while leading Oklahoma State to an 11-1 record. Not bad for an old man -- Weeden will turn 29 on October 14. Weeden spent several of his younger years playing baseball but stopped because he didn't want to undergo major arm surgery.
Analysis: The fit is good. We think Weeden has a chance to start after battling in training camp with Colt McCoy, and he's got the smarts and arm to work in a West Coast style of offense. With the Browns' receiving corps among the ugliest in the league, though, he could struggle to put up a ton of numbers. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early- to middle-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
News:Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III might be the top picks in the 2012 NFL Draft, but Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden is expected to end up as a Top 50 -- if not Top 32 -- pick. Throwing to fellow draft prospect Justin Blackmon over the last several seasons, Weeden was a first-team All-Big 12 performer in 2010 with 4,277 passing yards, 34 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, all while playing with a ruptured tendon in his thumb. He then threw for 4,727 yards and 37 touchdowns with 12 interceptions as a senior. Weeden was one of two players in the FBS to complete more than 400 passes and complete at least 72.4 percent of his passes while leading Oklahoma State to an 11-1 record. Not bad for an old man -- Weeden will turn 29 on October 14, which is a deterrent for teams drafting him since his NFL career won't last as long as someone young like Luck or Griffin. Weeden spent several of his younger years playing baseball but stopped because he didn't want to undergo major arm surgery.
Analysis: Weeden is considered just as NFL-ready as Luck and Griffin, especially for a West Coast style of offense thanks to his accuracy. His longer outside throws aren't always on point and working with dynamic receivers like Blackmon certainly helped his completion percentage, but questions about his footwork and ability to throw under major pressure also haunt him. We expect Weeden to compete for a starting job in a camp this summer but not be in a position to put up huge stats. We wouldn't draft him in standard seasonal leagues but would take a flier on him late in dynasty/keeper leagues drafts as well as spend an early-round pick on him in rookie-only formats.
