News: The losses are piling up for the Cleveland Browns. They've placed punter Dave Zastudil and tight end Steve Heiden on injured reserve with season-ending injuries. Heiden injured his ankle in Monday night's loss to Baltimore. He had off-season knee surgery and had missed two games with a knee injury.
Analysis: Heiden had 10 catches for 73 yards this season. An 11-year veteran, he missed the final two games last season after injuring his knee. Heiden had reconstructive surgery during the off-season and was being counted on by the Browns, who traded tight end Kellen Winslow to Tampa Bay in February. Heiden had little Fantasy value before the injury and now can be ignored in all formats.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden caught one pass for 9 yards in the Week 10 game against Baltimore on Monday night. Heiden then injured his ankle and left the game. He could not return.
Analysis: Heiden is not a relevant Fantasy player and can continue to be ignored in all formats. The Browns play at Detroit in Week 11.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden caught one pass in the team's Week 8 game at Chicago. The catch went for 10 yards.
Analysis: Heiden is not a relevant Fantasy player and can continue to be ignored in all formats. The Browns are off Week 9 then take on the Ravens Week 10.
News: Cleveland TEs Robert Royal and Steve Heiden were both inactive for Week 7 against the Packers. Royal has an illness and a hamstring issue and Heiden has a knee injury. Greg Estandia will start at tight end.
Analysis: Both Royal and Heiden were not recommended Fantasy options for Week 7 in either case. Estandia is also not recommended, even as the starter. Leave them all on waivers for Week 7.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden was limited in practice Thursday due to a knee injury as the team prepares for its Week 6 game at Pittsburgh. He is considered questionable for the contest.
Analysis: Heiden had only one catch for 7 yards Week 6, which is slightly less production than we're used to from him. He remains a low-end option for Week 6.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught one pass for 7 yards at Buffalo in Week 5.
Analysis: Heiden typically posts better stats than this, but not much better. He's no better than a low-end desperation option in Week 6 when the Browns play at the Steelers.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden caught the team's lone touchdown pass on Sunday in a Week 4 overtime loss to the Bengals. The TD pass was from 1 yard out. He made five catches in total for 33 yards.
Analysis: Heiden shares the TE responsibilities in Cleveland with Robert Royal and doesn't typically do enough to be relevant. Keep him out of all Fantasy formats for Week 5 at Buffalo.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden was the only Browns player to not record a stat on Sunday in Week 3's game against the Ravens.
Analysis: Heiden shares the TE responsibilities with Robert Royal and gets the short end of the stick typically. He remains someone not worth owning in any Fantasy format.
News:Steve Heiden and Mohammed Massaquoi did not record a stat Week 2 against Buffalo.
Analysis: Neither of these two players are expected to contribute enough to be anything other than a low-end option in 2009. Ignore both of them in all formats.
News:Steve Heiden, Derek Anderson and Mohammed Massaquoi did not record a stat Week 2 against Buffalo.
Analysis: None of these three players are expected to contribute enough to be anything other than a low-end option in 2009. Ignore them in all formats.
News: Browns TE Robert Royal had four catches for 60 yards in Week 1 against Minnesota, including a 26-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. He led all Browns receivers. TE Steve Heiden caught two passes for 14 yards.
Analysis: Royal seemed to be a favorite target of QB Brady Quinn, who threw for 205 yards and the one touchdown. The Browns traded Kellen Winslow away in the offseason and Royal appears to have taken a step toward becoming the team's go-to tight end. Take a chance on him off the waiver wire if you are in need of a tight end. The Vikings travel to Denver in Week 2. Heiden is worth a flier in deeper formats in the hopes that he can pick up more targets as the season goes on.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden has struggled to return to full strength and capacity following offseason knee surgery. He is behind Robert Royal in the battle for a starting spot, but Browns coach Eric Mangini said Thursday he likes Heiden's "toughness and aggressiveness."
Analysis: Neither Royal or Heiden is a quality Fantasy option this season. Ignore both on Draft Day.
News: Browns TE Robert Royal, a free agent pickup from Buffalo, has dropped several passes during camp. Coach Eric Mangini said that Royal was quite sure-handed when he saw Royal play during his coaching stints in New England and New York. Meanwhile, second-year TE Martin Rucker, who is battling with Royal and Steve Heiden for playing time at that position, lost 10 pounds during the offseason to improve his speed and quickness. He is now at about 243 pounds.
Analysis: We're not sure who is going to win the job to replace Kellen Winslow even though Royal likely has the edge, but none of these options are good for Fantasy owners. Keep all three on the waiver wire, even the starter.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had his red "limited-contact" jersey removed Monday. He participated in contact drills.
Analysis: Heiden is going to compete with Robert Royal and Martin Rucker for Kellen Winslow's old job. We're not sure who is going to win the job to replace Winslow even though Royal likely has the edge, but none of these options are good for Fantasy owners. Keep all three on the waiver wire, even the starter.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports Browns TE Steve Heiden, who tore the ACL and MCL in his right knee Dec. 15, will battle Robert Royal and Martin Rucker for Kellen Winslow's old job if he's ready for training camp.
Analysis: We're not sure who is going to win the job to replace Winslow even though Royal likely has the edge, but none of these options are good for Fantasy owners. Keep all three on the waiver wire, even the starter.
News: The Akron Beacon Journal reports Browns TE Steve Heiden has no complaints about his rehab from surgery on his right knee. Heiden tore the ACL and MCL in a game against the Eagles on Dec. 15. Asked if he would be 100 percent for training camp, Heiden said: "I have no timeline. When [the doctor] says, I'm going. I'll try to push him to go as soon as I can. I want to play football. I don't know when that's going to be."
Analysis: Heiden is one of several candidates the Browns are hoping can help replace Kellen Winslow, who is now in Tampa Bay. If healthy, Heiden will compete with Martin Rucker and Robert Royal. While none of them are as good as Winslow, the winner of the battle can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: The Canton Repository reports Browns president Mike Keenan is confident the team can replace TE Kellen Winslow Jr., who was traded to Tampa Bay this offseason, with the trio of Steve Heiden, Martin Rucker and Robert Royal. "We feel comfortable having Steve Heiden, who's coming off a hand injury, but he'd been healthy," Keenan said. "Martin Rucker, who we drafted last year, and Robert Royal. The production among the three of them compared to what Kellen put in there. ... We feel that's something we can work with."
Analysis: None of these players can produce at Winslow's level, so the safe bet in all leagues is to ignore all three. If any of them start to play well early in the season then add the best one off the waiver wire. Of the three, Rucker has the most upside.
News: Browns tight end Steve Heiden has torn ligaments in his right knee and will miss the rest of the season. Heiden injured the ACL during Cleveland's 30-10 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night. Browns coach Romeo Crennel says Heiden will undergo surgery Thursday. Heiden has been starting in place of the injured Kellen Winslow, and the Browns are now down to third-string tight end Darnell Dinkins and rookie Martin Rucker. Heiden was officially placed on Injured Reserve on Wednesday.
Analysis: With Ken Dorsey at quarterback, Heiden didn't figure to make a Fantasy impact and can safely be dropped off all rosters at this point.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden left early in the second half Week 15 at Philadelphia, getting carted off the field with knee and ankle injuries. He didn't return.
Analysis: Heiden starts with Kellen Winslow sidelined by an ankle injury of his own, but he didn't record a single offensive statistic before leaving. With Ken Dorsey at quarterback, Heiden doesn't figure to make a Fantasy impact even if he can play Week 16 against the Bengals.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden, starting in place of the injured Kellen Winslow, caught four passes for 29 yards in a Week 14 loss to the Titans.
Analysis: Heiden can be an OK TE option in deeper leagues when he's getting starts, but Winslow might be back in Week 15 at the Eagles, so don't reach for him on the wire unless you're really desperate for a TE.
News: The Browns announced Monday that the results of an MRI on TE Kellen Winslow revealed a high-ankle sprain, likely to keep him out for a couple of games. He will be in a walking boot and has already been ruled out for Week 14 at Tennessee. Steve Heiden will likely take Winslow's place in the starting lineup.
Analysis: If you're looking for a tight end who might be good for about 50 yards, Heiden is a candidate. It helps his case that he'll be playing with Ken Dorsey as his quarterback. Dorsey doesn't have a ton of pro experience and isn't a deep-ball passer, so he could be leaning on Heiden a lot. Consider Heiden a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 14.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden made three catches Week 13 against the Colts, but for only 15 yards. He got more playing time when starter Kellen Winslow left with an ankle injury.
Analysis: If Winslow ends up missing any time, Heiden could potentially make a Fantasy impact, especially if new quarterback Ken Dorsey has to rely on him underneath. Still, think of him as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 14 at Tennessee.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught just a five-yard pass Week 12 against the Texans. He has only one catch over the last two games.
Analysis: Heiden had some decent performances when Kellen Winslow missed time due to injury, but he obviously won't do much for you now. Leave him on waivers for Week 13 against the Colts.
News: Browns TE Kellen Winslow (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 12 vs. Houston. Winslow took limited practice reps Friday after sitting out the previous two days. A MRI Tuesday showed no structural damage in Winslow's, but coach Romeo Crennel has said the only way Winslow sees the field against Houston is if he's able to show a full range of motion in his shoulder. If Winslow is unable to play Week 12, Steve Heiden would normally start in his place, but he is also hurting with an elbow injury and is questionable.
Analysis: Heiden had some pretty good games this season when Winslow has been idle, but he didn't practice Friday and his status for Week 12 is in jeopardy. Even if Heiden is ready to play, he could still be slowed by the elbow ailment. Consider using other Fantasy alternatives.
News: Browns RB Jason Wright, TE Steve Heiden, TE Darnell Dinkins and QB Derek Anderson didn't record offensive statistics Week 11 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Anderson and Heiden have had Fantasy appeal at times this season, but in their current roles, they don't matter. Leave them, as well as Wright and Dinkins, on waivers in Fantasy.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden, who presumably wouldn't get much of a chance in a game where starter Kellen Winslow caught 10 passes for 111 yards, caught three for 24 in Week 10 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Heiden had a couple nice games with Winslow sidelined, but he doesn't figure to do much now with Winslow back. Ignore him except in the deepest of Fantasy leagues Week 11 at Buffalo.
News: In the Browns' 37-27 loss vs. the Ravens, Cleveland TE Steve Heiden made two catches for 25 yards. Heiden's reps were cut into by the return of starting tight end Kellen Winslow.
Analysis: Heiden and the Browns will have no time to rest as they host the Broncos this Thursday as part of Week 10 action. The Broncos' pass defense is awful, but Heiden isn't expected to produce many yards on a weekly basis so long as Winslow is healthy. He's not worth owning at this time.
News: Pro Bowl tight end Kellen Winslow returned to the Browns following a one-game ban that was later rescinded and said he's "ready to move on and play football." The Browns suspended Winslow last week for criticizing the team's handling of his hospitalization for a staph infection. Winslow appealed the suspension, which was rescinded by the team late Saturday night. Steve Heiden saw extended playing time in place of Winslow in two games this year, including at Jacksonville in Week 8. Heiden had three catches for 73 yards in that game.
Analysis: Expect Heiden's playing time to fall off with Winslow returning. If you used Heiden as a stop-gap option in place of Winslow, you can safely return him to the waiver wire at this time. He may still make a couple of grabs per week as he's helped move the chains, but expectations are minimal so long as Winslow is active. The Browns host the Ravens in Week 9.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden started Week 8 against the Jaguars in place of Kellen Winslow, who was a healthy scratch because of a team decision. Heiden filled in nicely with a team-high three catches for 73 yards. He even had a huge 4th-and-1 catch in the second quarter that went 51 yards and all the way down to the 2-yard line. It setup Jamal Lewis' 2-yard touchdown run.
Analysis: Heiden has started two of the last three games for Winslow. In both of those starts, he has eight catches for 132 yards. In his other five games this season when Winslow has been active, he has two catches for 19 yards. Heiden is not a bad Fantasy option when Winslow is out, but when he is active, Heiden has little to no Fantasy value. Winslow is expected back Week 9 against Baltimore, so consider Heiden a less than desireable Fantasy TE.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden (pectoral) is active Week 8 against the Jaguars and expected to start in place of Kellen Winslow, who is inactive because of a team decision.
Analysis: Heiden had five catches for 59 yards two weeks ago against the Giants when he started for an injured Winslow. He is nothing more than a possible bye-week Fantasy replacement Week 8.
News: The Browns have suspended TE Kellen Winslow on Tuesday following his complaints about his medical condition. Winslow was hospitalized for a staph infection and was unhappy with the way it was handled. He complained about it to the media, and the Browns decided to suspend him for Week 8 at Jacksonville. "Kellen has expressed his desire to be a productive member of the Cleveland Browns," Browns GM Phil Savage said. "His comments and behavior on Sunday evening, however, were unwarranted, inappropriate and unnecessarily disparaging to our organization. His statements brought unjustified negative attention to our organization and violated the team-first concept of our football squad. Therefore, disciplinary action will be taken in the form of a one-game suspension without pay for conduct detrimental to the club."
Analysis: Steve Heiden will start against the Jaguars with Darnell Dinkins the backup. Consider Heiden a No. 2 Fantasy TE and Dinkins a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden started over an active Kellen Winslow in Week 7 at Washington because Winslow was still returning from an illness. Heiden caught one pass for 10 yards.
Analysis: Heiden caught five passes for 59 yards in Week 6 without Winslow. Winslow totaled 17 yards on two catches against Washington so it seems that even as a backup, Winslow is still Derek Anderson's preferred target. With Winslow probably healthy and starting again in Week 8 at Jacksonville, Heiden goes back to being just a blocking tight end for the Browns and someone to avoid in Fantasy.
News: CBS Sports announcer Ian Eagle, who has met with Browns head coach Romeo Crennel in the last 24 hours, told Senior Fantasy Writer Jamey Eisenberg on Fantasy Football Today that Browns TE Kellen Winslow is expected to be active but not start vs. the Redskins in Week 7. Winslow would be used as "a secondary option," according to Eagle, and see the field only in certain packages. Steve Heiden is expected to start.
Analysis: It's advised that Winslow remain benched in Fantasy play so long as you can help it, since by this report Winslow won't get much time on the field. If you're stuck and have no other reliable option at tight end, Winslow is better than nothing. Heiden will serve as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Browns TE Kellen Winslow practiced for the first time since being hospitalized with an undisclosed illness and could play Sunday against the Redskins. "It's good to be back," Winslow said Friday. Winslow was in good spirits as he got dressed along with his teammates, who upset the Giants on Monday night without him. During a brief interview at his locker, Winslow declined to give any details about what forced him to be kept at the Cleveland Clinic for three days last week. "I'm not going to tell you exactly," Winslow said. Winslow would not confirm a report that his recent hospital stay was caused by an infection. He said it would be up to Cleveland's coaching staff to decide whether he plays against the Redskins. "It's not for sure that I'm going to play," he said.
Analysis: Steve Heiden and Darnell Dinkins played well in place of Winslow against the Giants. If Winslow returns, Heiden and Dikins would return to reserve roles.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden, starting with Kellen Winslow sidelined by an illness, caught five passes for 59 yards Week 6 against the Giants. He entered the game with only one reception all season.
Analysis: Ironically, the Browns offense happened to come to life this one game Heiden started, so the handful of Fantasy owners who used him got a nifty bonus. Winslow likely will return Week 7 at Washington, though, so leave Heiden on waivers.
News: Browns TE Kellen Winslow has been released from the hospital after a four-day stay for tests and evaluation related to an undisclosed illness. The Browns downgraded the Pro Bowler from questionable to doubtful for Monday night's game against the New York Giants, meaning there's about a 25 percent chance he'll play. If Winslow is out, Steve Heiden most likely would start and backup Darnell Dinkins would get more playing time. Winslow was admitted to the Cleveland Clinic on Thursday after feeling ill for several days. His illness is not believed to be related to any of his previous injuries. He has undergone four knee surgeries and has had to play through pain throughout most of his four-year NFL career. The NFL Network has reported Winslow is not going to play against the Giants.
Analysis: Winslow is expected to miss the game, so plan on being without him against the Giants. Hopefully he will be OK and not have to miss too much time because when healthy, Winslow is a No. 1 option. Don't plan on adding Heiden for this game, and Dinkins won't make much of an impact this week either.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden, FB Charles Ali, WR Steve Sanders, TE Darnell Dinkins and QB Brady Quinn all dressed for Cleveland's Week 3 loss to the Ravens, but failed to record a stat.
Analysis: The only player in this group with Fantasy value is Quinn, and he could see the field soon if Derek Anderson continues to struggle. Ignore the rest. Cleveland visits Cincinnati in Week 4.
News: Browns RB Charles Ali, TE Steve Heiden, TE Darnell Dinkins, WR Steve Sanders and QB Brady Quinn didn't record offensive statistics Week 2 against the Steelers.
Analysis: None of these players contributes enough on offense to have any Fantasy appeal. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught one pass for nine yards in Week 1 vs. Dallas.
Analysis: As long as Kellen Winslow remains healthy, Heiden will not be a target often for the Browns in their passing game. Leave him on the waiver wire in all leagues until further notice.
News:Browns TE Steve Heiden (knee) was able to play during Monday's preseason game against the Giants. He had two catches for 18 yards.
Analysis: The Browns have talked about playing Kellen Winslow at wide receiver at times in 2008, and that would definitely open up PT for Heiden. However, Heiden isn't expected to be a big-part of the passing game and has little to no Fantasy value heading into 2008.
News: The Browns have struggled during training camp with injuries at tight end. But Kellen Winslow (hamstring) and Steve Heiden (knee) returned to team drills this week. Both Winslow and Heiden are expected to play in the Browns' second preseason game against the New York Giants on Monday night, Crennel said.
Analysis: Winslow is a No. 1 Fantasy TE in 2008 and should be drafted around the third or fourth round in all leagues and it is excellent news that he's healthy and ready to play. Heiden is worth drafting as an insurance policy on Winslow. If Winslow gets hurt during the season, Heiden is expected to be the man who steps in.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Browns GM Phil Savage said the team might not be in a rush to find a third receiver to replace the injured Joe Jurevicius, who is starting the season on the PUP list with a knee injury. "Obviously, we could play (TE) Steve Heiden and use Kellen (Winslow) as the third receiver," said Savage. "So it's important for us to find out what we have here in the next few weeks." Heiden, who was limited in minicamp after back surgery to repair a bulging disc, is expected to participate fully in training camp. "Steve is a great team player and a great asset for us," said coach Romeo Crennel. "It's good to have him on the field and back healthy and going at it."
Analysis: Heiden could be worth drafting as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE if Winslow does play receiver. Keep an eye on what happens, but Heiden is someone to keep in mind for bye weeks if this move does take place.
News: Browns coach Romeo Crennel said TE Steve Heiden is making progress following his back surgery in late April, but that the Browns are exercising caution. "We're going to be careful and make sure we can get him into training camp," said Crennel in Wednesday's Cleveland Plain Dealer. "Because of his back surgery, we don't want to overdo him."
Analysis: Heiden is a backup tight end in Cleveland. He has minimal Fantasy value in 2008 and should not be drafted in any leagues.
News: ESPN reports that Browns backup TE Steve Heiden had surgery to repair a bulging disc in his back, according to his agent. He is expected to attend training camp assuming his rehab goes well.
Analysis: Heiden had little impact in 2007 as the No. 2 tight end behind Kellen Winslow, totaling 12 catches for 104 yards and no touchdowns. It was the first time in four seasons Heiden did not score. Fantasy owners can look elsewhere for help this summer.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had little impact in 2007 as the No. 2 tight end behind Kellen Winslow. Heiden finished with 12 catches for 104 yards and no touchdowns. It was the first time in four seasons Heiden did not score.
Analysis: Heiden is a low-end Fantasy option. As long as Winslow is healthy, don't expect Heiden to have much of an impact with the Browns.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught two passes for 20 yards Week 14 at the Jets.
Analysis: As a backup tight end, Heiden has little Fantasy value. Leave him on waivers for Week 15 against the Bills.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden cuaght one pass for 12 yards during a Week 13 loss to the Cardinals. Heiden has caught more than one pass in one of 12 games this season.
Analysis: Heiden won't be a big Fantasy asset until something happens to Kellen Winslow. Keep Heiden out of active Fantasy lineups heading into Week 14 against the Jets.
News: Browns QB Brady Quinn, TE Steve Heiden and WR Tim Carter did not record a stat Sunday against Houston.
Analysis: None of these players are worth using in Fantasy leagues in Week 13 at Arizona.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had one catch for 2 yards Sunday at Baltimore.
Analysis: Heiden is the No. 2 TE for the Browns and has minimal Fantasy value. He should not be used in Week 12 against Houston.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught a six-yard pass Week 9 against the Seahawks.
Analysis: Heiden backs up one of the best TEs in the game in Kellen Winslow, and unless the former Miami Hurricane gets hurt, Heiden has no Fantasy value. Leave him alone in Week 10 at Pittsburgh.
News: Browns backup TE Steve Heiden caught one pass for eight yards in Cleveland's 27-20 win over the Rams in Week 8.
Analysis: Heiden backs up one of the best TEs in the game in Kellen Winslow, and unless the former Miami Hurricane gets hurt, Heiden has no Fantasy value. Leave him alone in Week 9 when Cleveland hosts Seattle.
News: Browns FB Charles Ali, TE Steve Heiden and WR Tim Carter all played in Cleveland's 41-31 win over the Dolphins in Week 6 but didn't record an offensive stat.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value at this time.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had two receptions for 17 yards during a Week 5 loss to the Patriots. He came into the game with three receptions for 31 yards on the season.
Analysis: Heiden is the backup behind Kellen Winslow, and so isn't worth any Fantasy attention in even the deepest of leagues at this point. The Browns play the Dolphins in Week 6.
News: TE Steve Heiden caught one pass for one yard in the Browns' 27-13 Week 5 win over the Ravens.
Analysis: Heiden is the backup behind Kellen Winslow, and so isn't worth any attention in even the deepest of leagues. The Browns play at New England in Week 5.
News: TE Darnell Dinkins, TE Steve Heiden, QB Brady Quinn and FB Lawrence Vickers all suited up and got onto the field in Week 3 at Oakland, but no one recorded any offensive statistics.
Analysis: None of the aforementioned players are worthy of Fantasy consideration heading into Week 4 against the Ravens in a difficult matchup. However, Quinn is worth a look in long-term keeper formats.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden and FB Lawrence Vickers each caught one pass Sunday in Cleveland's Week 2 51-45 victory over the Bengals.
Analysis: Heiden is behind super-stud Kellen Winslow on the TE depth chart and Vickers is mainly a blocking back for the Browns and therefore neither are worth any Fantasy consideration at this time.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden made one catch for three yards in Week 1 vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Heiden isn't a regular pass-catching tight end in the Browns offense and is a player that should be left on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Tight end Steve Heiden signed a four-year contract extension with the Cleveland Browns on Saturday. Heiden is an eight-year veteran and entering his sixth season with the Browns. He had 36 receptions for 244 yards and two touchdowns last season as the No. 2 tight end behind Kellen Winslow Jr. The 6-foot-5, 267-pounder caught a career-high 43 passes for 401 yards and three TDs in 2005.
Analysis: Heiden is one of those players who has one solid week early in the season and everyone rushes to add him to their Fantasy roster. The reality is that he is at best a bye-week TE replacement in the deepest of Fantasy Football leagues. He doesn't post consistent numbers and shouldn't be a draft consideration in any Fantasy format.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden caught three passes for 17 yards in Week 17 at Houston.
Analysis: Heiden is not a reliable Fantasy option and shouldn't be considered in Fantasy drafts in 2007.
News: FB Terrelle Smith, WR Josh Cribbs, RB Jerome Harrison, FB Lawrence Vickers, WR Travis Wilson, TE Steve Heiden and TE Darnell Dinkins were able to play in Week 16 against the Bucs but they did not post any offensive statistics.
Analysis: None of the players mentioned above are worthy of any Fantasy consideration in Week 17.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had three catches for 20 yards in a Week 15 loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 16 vs. Tampa Bay.
News: Steve Heiden had two receptions for 21 yards in Week 14 at Pittsburgh. He has developed a nice rapport with Derek Anderson since he took over for the injured Charlie Frye (wrist) last week.
Analysis: Despite his increase in activity in the Cleveland offense, he is not a recommended Fantasy player for Week 15 at Baltimore.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had five catches for 27 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 13 win over the Chiefs.
Analysis: Despite the two scores, Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 14 at Pittsburgh.
News: Notable Browns players from Week 11 include: RB Jerome Harrison (5 rush yards), FB Terrelle Smith (1 rush yard), WR Joe Jurevicius (16-yard catch), TE Steve Heiden (14 receiving yards), FB Lawrence Vickers (12-yard catch) and WR Dennis Northcutt (3-yard catch).
Analysis: Of these players, only Jurevicius deserves consideration when the Browns play vs. Cincinnati in Week 12. Jurevicius could be a No. 3 WR in that contest.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had four receptions for 24 yards in a 17-13 win over the Falcons in Week 10.
Analysis: Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 11 against the Steelers. Ignore him for now.
News: Steve Heiden had two receptions for 14 yards and Dennis Northcutt had one grab for seven yards in Week 9 at San Diego.
Analysis: Neither of the two players are recommended Fantasy options in Week 10 at Atlanta.
News: Browns backup TE Steve Heiden had three receptions for 23 yards in a 20-13 win over the Jets in Week 8.
Analysis: Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 9 against the Chargers. Ignore him for now.
News: Steve Heiden had two receptions for 10 yards in Week 7 against Denver.
Analysis: Despite the two touches, Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 8 against the Jets.
News: Steve Heiden has two receptions for 21 yards in Week 5 at Carolina.
Analysis: Heiden is not worth using in Week 7 against Denver once the team returns from its bye.
News: Steve Heiden had one reception for six yards in Week 4 at Oakland.
Analysis: Heiden is not worth any Fantasy consideration for Week 5 at Carolina.
News: Steve Heiden had two receptions for 18 yards in Week 3 against the Ravens.
Analysis: Heiden is not a recommended Fantasy option for Week 4 at Oakland, as he does not get enough looks in the Cleveland offense.
News: Steve Heiden caught two passes for 13 yards in Week 2 at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Heiden has little Fantasy value at this point. Ignore him for Week 3 vs. Baltimore.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had one reception for seven yards in the Browns 19-14 Week 1 loss to the Saints.
Analysis: Heiden has little Fantasy value at this point.
News: The Browns' official website reports that Steve Heiden is used to being called the Browns' "other" tight end, with Kellen Winslow healthy again. "Yeah, it doesn't bother me," he said.
Analysis: Heiden is coming off a career season in which he finished second on the team in receptions (43), for 401 yards, and he tied for second on the team with three TD catches. As a matter of fact, he had the most catches by a Browns TE since Hall of Famer Ozzie Newsome grabbed 62 in 1985. Unfortunately, with Winslow currently healthy, Heiden becomes a Fantasy option only in the largest of Fantasy leagues as a backup TE.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports the absence of Braylon Edwards (knee) for what could be the first six weeks of the regular season could mean more opportunities for Steve Heiden.
Analysis: Edwards' absence could also mean more time for Kellen Winslow as a wide receiver. Heiden still warrants little consideration in seasonal drafts.
News: Steve Heiden recorded 43 receptions, 401 yards and three TDs this season as the No. 1 tight end in Cleveland.
Analysis: Heiden finished with decent totals but was inconsistent for much of the season. He will be worth no more than a late-round flier in 2006 drafts.
News: Cleveland Browns tight end Steve Heiden was placed on injured reserve with an injured ankle, ending his season with just one game left.
Analysis: He has no significant Fantasy value, especially with Kellen Winslow coming back in 2006.
News: Steve Heiden (ankle) had two receptions for 13 yards in Week 16 against the Steelers.
Analysis: Heiden is only recommended in larger Fantasy leagues for Week 17 against the Ravens.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden (ankle) did not practice Wednesday and is questionable for Week 15. Browns head coach Romeo Crennel thinks he will be able to play.
Analysis: Heiden is not a reliable Fantasy tight end even though he could get a touchdown catch at Oakland in Week 15.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had a touchdown catch at Cincinnati in Week 14, finishing with 27 receiving yards.
Analysis: Heiden scores for the first time since Week 2. He's not enough of a contributor for owners to rely on at this point in the season.
News: TE Steve Heiden had one catch for four yards vs. Jacksonville in Week 13.
Analysis: Heiden is not a reliable Fantasy tight end. The Browns play at Cincinnati in Week 14.
News: According to reports, Browns offensive coordinator Maurice Carthon is preparing for a heavy blitz from Jacksonville, particularly if Charlie Frye has to start.
Analysis: That means that tight end Steve Heiden could be kept in to block. That would give the quarterback more protection, but it also would take away a target. Heiden is not a recommended starter for Week 13 against Jacksonville.
News: Steve Heiden caught five passes for 55 yards in Sunday's 24-12 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Analysis: Heiden is too inconsistent to be considered a starter in most leagues for Week 13 against Jacksonville.
News: According to the Sun-Sentinel, the Miami Dolphins defense struggled to contain tight ends for the third time in four games during Sunday's 23-16 home loss to New England. This time, it was backups Ben Watson and Christian Fauria combining for five catches for 60 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Interesting. Heiden isn't usually a recommended starter, but he could be worth starting in larger leagues just to see if the trend continues.
News: Browns TE Steve Heiden had 43 receiving yards on four catches at Houston in Week 8.
Analysis: Heiden is probably not worth considering vs. Tennessee in Week 9.
News: Steve Heiden had two receptions for 12 yards in Week 3 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: After a huge game at Green Bay in Week 2, Heiden came back down to Earth. This is more of what one should expect from the tight end in terms of Fantasy production.
News: Cleveland TE Steve Heiden had six catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's win over the Packers.
Analysis: Heiden is becoming a favorite target of QB Trent Dilfer and should be considered a starter in leagues with 12-plus teams.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports TE Steve Heiden has been upgraded to probable and should play in Week 2 against Green Bay.
Analysis: Heiden isn't a recommended Fantasy addition.
News: Heiden had three receptions for 32 yards in Week 1 against the Bengals. He had to leave briefly after an apparent shoulder injury, but he was able to return.
Analysis: The Browns are thin at tight end, with Kellen Winslow II (knee) out for the season and Aaron Shea (shoulder) out for Week 1. Heiden has some minimal Fantasy appeal in larger leagues which require a tight end. The Browns travel to Green Bay in Week 2.
News: Browns TE Aaron Shea could miss the team's season opener against the Bengals with a shoulder injury, says ClevelandBrowns.com.
Analysis: Steve Heiden would start at tight end if Shea cannot play. Neither player is worth starting in leagues.
News: Browns tight end Steve Heiden (ankle) is questionable for Week 16 at Miami.
Analysis: Heiden hurt his ankle in Week 15 against San Diego. He has little Fantasy value.
News: Steve Heiden caught two passes for 19 yards in Week 14 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Heiden has little Fantasy value. The Browns host San Diego in Week 15.
News: Steve Heiden had only two receptions for 20 yards in Week 13 against New England.
Analysis: After a phenomenal Week 12 at Cincinnati, Heiden was back to his regular Fantasy production. He is best used as a reserve for Week 14 at Buffalo.
News: Steve Heiden caught seven passes for 82 yards and three touchdowns in Week 12 at Cincinnati.
Analysis: A great game but don't expect anything close to this out of Heiden the rest of this season. He is only worth owning as a reserve tight end in larger leagues. The Browns host the Patriots in Week 13.
News: Steve Heiden had three receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown in Week 7 against the Eagles.
Analysis: Despite the score, Heiden is not a useful Fantasy player in most leagues.
News: Steve Heiden (knee) was able to make his season debut in Week 4 against Washington. He reeled in two receptions for 19 yards.
Analysis: Heiden will assume the No. 2 tight end job behind starter Aaron Shea now that Kellen Winslow (broken fibula) is out for the season. His Fantasy appeal is minimal.
News: Steve Heiden (knee) was inactive for Week 3 at N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: With Heiden still out and Kellen Winslow (leg) sidelined, Aaron Shea got the start with Chad Mustard as his backup.
News: Browns tight end Steve Heiden (ankle) is doubtful for Week 3 against the Giants.
Analysis: This wasn't a major concern until Kellen Winslow, Jr. broke his leg in Week 2 action. For now, the Browns will start Aaron Shea at tight end and he has more value than Heiden.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports Steve Heiden (knee) is expected to miss four to six weeks due to a torn medial collateral ligament.
Analysis: Heiden was originally expected to miss anywhere from two to four weeks. The reserve tight end has no Fantasy appeal when healthy.
News: A sprained knee is expected to sideline Steve Heiden two to four weeks.
Analysis: With Heiden on the mend, rookie Kellen Winslow II will move into the starting lineup.
News: Steve Heiden sustained a sprained knee in Saturday's preseason game at Kansas City.
Analysis: The injury might force him out of the lineup into the regular season, but he is not useful from a Fantasy perspective.
News: According to the Browns official website, Steve Heiden is expected to be the team's No. 2 tight end behind rookie Kellen Winslow Jr. "You can take Kellen and flex him out on one end and take Heiden and put him out on the other end," offensive coordinator Terry Robiskie said. "Then, you have two guys who can line up like wide receivers and make a play."
Analysis: Winslow is the real star of this duo, so pay little attention to Heiden on Draft Day.
News: Cleveland placed Steve Heiden on injured reserve on Wednesday due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: With Heiden out, Darnell Sanders will start at tight end. Chad Mustard was signed from the practice squad to serve as a backup.
News: Steve Heiden will try to improve his stats at Baltimore in Week 2.
Analysis: Heiden had only two receptions on Sunday and should not be starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Steve Heiden will enter the regular season as the starting tight end in Cleveland. He beat out Darnell Sanders for the job.
Analysis: Despite his spot on the depth chart, Heiden warrants minimal Fantasy consideration.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Heiden is currently first on the depth chart. He is competing with Darnell Sanders for the starting job during camp.
Analysis: Heiden still warrants minimal Fantasy consideration despite being the early starter.
News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports Steve Heiden suffered a hip flexor injury on Thursday and was unable to participate in a scrimmage on Saturday with the Bills.
Analysis: Heiden expects to return to practice Monday. He is considered day to day.