News: The Falcons re-signed 36-year-old linebacker Mike Peterson on Monday afternoon in an effort to fortify the team's defensive depth. Peterson, a former second-round draft pick of the Indianapolis Colts, played 15 games last year, making 24 tackles and one interception.
Analysis: Peterson was once a Fantasy superstar, but he's going to battle for a roster spot this summer and can't be considered a reliable starting option. Keep him off rosters.
News: Atlanta moved DB Kelvin Hayden (toe) and LB Mike Peterson (undisclosed) to injured reserve on Tuesday. Peterson started the Falcons' last game against New Orleans on Monday night in place of LB Stephen Nicholas, who was out with a toe injury.
Analysis: Peterson registered 23 tackles and one interception in limited playing time with Atlanta this season. He wasn't a reliable Fantasy option and should be left untouched in all formats.
News: Once again starting with Stephen Nicholas sidelined by a quadriceps injury, Falcons LB Mike Peterson made a relevant contribution Week 14 at Carolina, intercepting a Cam Newton shovel pass in the third quarter. Peterson recorded only one tackle in the contest, though.
Analysis: Nicholas recorded 10 tackles in his first start for Nicholas last week. Though his contribution was notably different in Week 14, it was still significant. He's a backup for a reason, though. At age 35, he's not the player he once was, so you can leave him on waivers in Fantasy.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson started for the injured Stephen Nicholas (quadriceps) in Week 13 at Houston. Peterson responded with 10 tackles (seven solo) and one pass defense.
Analysis: Peterson came into Week 13 with nine tackles in 11 games as a backup LB. He benefited Week 13 not only because Nicholas was out, but the Texans ran the ball 40-plus times, which presented plenty of chances to make tackles. Peterson is past his prime and likely headed back to the bench once Nicholas is healthy, so consider him nothing more than a low-end stopgap Fantasy LB.
News: The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a one-year contract with linebacker Mike Peterson. The deal was announced Thursday. Free agents can formerly sign on Friday, when the Falcons are scheduled to hold their first practice of training camp. Peterson started 13 games for the NFC South champions last season, making 79 tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble.
Analysis: Peterson was previously a high-tackle machine, but he's been supplanted in Atlanta by the likes of Curtis Lofton. If anything, he's a guy you can use for a week or two off of waivers.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson had a surprisingly productive afternoon Week 14 at Carolina, forcing a fumble early in the first quarter and intercepting a pass late in the fourth. He also had six tackles, including four solo.
Analysis: Peterson wasn't doing much at the beginning of the season, but he recorded a season-high 10 tackles last week and followed it up with this impressive performance. Still, he's getting kind of old to be an impact player in Fantasy. He'll need another big game or two before you add him off the waiver wire.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson continued to play a minimal role Week 12 against the Packers. He didn't record a single tackle, but he did recover a fumble for a touchback to prevent the Packers from scoring in the second quarter.
Analysis: Peterson will get a handful of tackles each week but not enough to make a significant impact in Fantasy. He isn't the player he used to be, so you can leave him on waivers in IDP formats.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson picked up his first sack of the season Week 9 against the Buccaneers. He also had five tackles, including three solo.
Analysis: Peterson hasn't been a consistent source of tackles this season after recording 109 last season, and he hasn't recorded more than two sacks in a season since 2005. You should treat him as a low-end linebacker in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson played well in Sunday's game at New Orleans in Week 3. Peterson had three tackles, and he also forced a fumble. Falcons DB Thomas DeCoud was able to recover to give Atlanta the ball.
Analysis: Peterson is a low-end No. 3 Fantasy LB, and he's a good replacement with the bye weeks coming up. Plan on starting Peterson in deep IDP formats in Week 4 against the 49ers.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson totaled six tackles (four solo) and one interception in a Week 1 loss to the Steelers. Peterson intercepted a Dennis Dixon pass in the second quarter, deep in Atlanta territory. It was his 17th career interception.
Analysis: Peterson has been able to revive his career now that he has been reunited with Mike Smith, who was his former defensive coordinator in Jacksonville. It has also helped him that he has been healthy. Peterson is a threat for 100-plus tackles, but don't expect a ton of sacks or interceptions. View him more like a low-end No. 2/high-end No. 3 Fantasy LB.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson (calf) was back at practice Sunday morning. Peterson was held out of the team's preseason opener on Friday against the Chiefs.
Analysis: The calf injury was never considered serious and since Peterson is a wily veteran, he doesn't need much work in the preseason. Reunited with former Jacksonville defensive coordinator Mike Smith in 2009, Peterson posted his first 100-tackle season since 2005. It was also the first time since '05 he played a full season of games. Peterson might get a token sack or interception, but he is most noted for his ability to rack up tackles. As long as he is healthy, Peterson is a solid No. 2 Fantasy LB.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson (13 tackles), DB Erik Coleman (nine tackles), LB Curtis Lofton (eight tackles), DL Kroy Biermann (seven tackles), DB Chris Owens (seven tackles), DL Thomas Johnson (two tackles, sack) and DL John Abraham (sack) all chipped in with nice performances in a Week 15 win over the Jets.
Analysis: Lofton is a stud LB in all IDP Fantasy formats, while Peterson, Abraham and Coleman are worth using in deeper leagues. Biermann has some minimal value, while Johnson and Owens can continue to be ignored in all formats heading into Week 16 vs. Buffalo.
News: Falcons defenders did little of note on Sunday in a Week 14 loss to the Saints. Stephen Nicholas was the team’ s leading tackler in the game with nine. Mike Peterson was second with eight while Thomas DeCoud and Brent Grimes tied for third with seven. John Abraham had four tackles in the game and forced a fumble. Curtis Lofton was limited to just three tackles.
Analysis: The Falcons defense doesn’t have too many playmakers on it and that was evident against the Saints in Week 14. Lofton is a must-start while Peterson is a No. 2 option. Decoud is a low-end option while Grimes and Nicholas are hardly worth owning in IDP play.
News: The Falcons had several defenders play well Sunday against the Eagles. LB Curtis Lofton had six tackles. LB Mike Peterson had four tackles. DL Kroy Biermann had three tackles and a sack. DB Erik Coleman had two tackles.
Analysis: The Falcons have several players who continue to play well in IDP leagues. Plan on using your regular options in Week 14 against the Saints.
News: Notable Falcons defenders from Week 6 vs. Chicago include: DB Thomas DeCoud (five solo tackles, two interceptions), LB Mike Peterson (six solo tackles, sack), LB Curtis Lofton (10 total tackles, forced fumble), DB Erik Coleman (nine total tackles), DE John Abraham (four total tackles, half sack) and DT Jonathan Babineaux (three total tackles, half sack, forced fumble).
Analysis: Of these people, Lofton, Peterson, Coleman and Abraham are legitimate Fantasy starters at their positions. Take note of DeCoud as he's been making good use of his playing time and could be on the rise. Babineaux typically doesn't post big stats. The Falcons play at the Cowboys in Week 7.
News: Thanks to the play of Mike Peterson at weakside linebacker, the Falcons have one less concern heading into their bye week at 2-1. An 11th-year veteran in his first full NFC season, Peterson has two forced fumbles, three passes defended, 21 tackles and an interception he returned 39 yards. Not bad for a 33-year-old whose best days were allegedly behind him. "I probably surprise you guys more than I surprise myself because I knew I could still play football, man," Peterson said. "If I don't know nothing else, I know I can play football, but I never get comfortable with my game. I'm always trying to be the best."
Analysis: Atlanta signed Peterson, who spent his first 10 seasons in the AFC, to a two-year, $6.5 million contract early in free agency six months ago. Reunited with coach Mike Smith, his former defensive coordinator in Jacksonville, Peterson has justified the Falcons' front office decision to let Keith Brooking leave for Dallas. But that was hardly the case before Week 1. Peterson heard the rumblings that his career was all but finished after his fallout last year with Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio. Pectoral and hand injuries led to season-ending surgeries, and Peterson also missed Jacksonville's 2007 postseason run. Peterson is worth picking up as a decent No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy LB in IDP formats.
News: In the Falcons' Week 3 loss at the Patriots, notable defensive players for Fantasy included: LB Curtis Lofton (19 total tackles), LB Mike Peterson (11 total tackles), DB Erik Coleman and LB Stephen Nicholas (nine total tackles each) and DB Brian Williams (eight total tackles).
Analysis: The Falcons are on bye in Week 4 and play at San Francisco in Week 5. Consider other options for the coming week's action before considering these players for their next game.
News: Falcons LB Mike Peterson forced a fumble with a vicious hit and returned an interception 39 yards to set up a touchdown as he excelled in his Atlanta debut Sunday, helping the Falcons to a 19-7 win over Miami.
Analysis: Peterson had his days in the past as a Fantasy contributor, and maybe he's ready for a renaissance with his new squad. Keep an eye on him in deeper IDP leagues over the next couple of weeks before picking him up, though.
News:Mike Peterson finally made peace with himself after last year's meltdown with Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio. It took Peterson a few restless nights to put the embarrassments and disappointments behind him, but a reunion with Falcons coach Mike Smith has given the 11th-year linebacker a new outlook on football. "You're going to go through some phases in your life when you have to learn from it and move on," Peterson said Tuesday. "For some reason, and I might not understand it now, but this season, after we win the Super Bowl, I'll look back and say it was a blessing in disguise."
Analysis: Peterson credits Smith with much of Jacksonville's success on defense from 2004-07, when the Jaguars went 40-24 and twice made the playoffs. Smith, who left as coordinator to become Atlanta's head coach in January 2008, also was his first and only NFL coach to always stay in touch and genuinely care about his personal life. Peterson has not managed 100-plus tackles since 2005 and hasn't played a full season since then either. His career seems to be on the back nine as health is the big issue with him. While it helps that he'll be playing in a defense he's familiar with, Peterson is no longer in his prime and is at best a low-end Fantasy LB heading into 2009.
News: The Falcons have signed LB Mike Peterson to a two-year deal. The signing reunited Peterson with former defensive coordinator Mike Smith, now the Falcons head coach. "I had the pleasure of coaching Mike for five seasons in Jacksonville," Smith said. "He is a passionate player who brings a great deal of intensity to the game."
Analysis: Peterson has not managed 100-plus tackles since 2005 and hasn't played a full season since then either. His career seems to be on the back nine as health is the big issue with him. While it helps that he'll be playing in a defense he's familiar with, Peterson is no longer in his prime and is at best a low-end Fantasy LB heading into 2009.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson totaled a team-high 12 tackles (eight solo) during a Week 17 loss to the Ravens. It was just the second time in 2008 that Peterson managed 10-plus tackles.
Analysis: Peterson has not managed 100-plus tackles since 2005 and hasn't played a full season since then either. His career seems to be on the back nine and the free agent might not be back with Jacksonville in 2009 after some turbulent times with coach Jack Del Rio this season. Peterson is no longer in his prime and is a low-end Fantasy LB heading into next season.
News: Jacksonville LBs Justin Durant and Mike Peterson led their team in tackles in Week 16's loss to the Colts Thursday night. Peterson finished with seven tackles and Durant had eight in the 31-24 defeat.
Analysis: Peterson now has 72 tackles on the season and is just a low-end Fantasy LB for IDP leagues. He's not really worth using in Week 17 at Baltimore and the same goes for Durant, who has even less value.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson will be back in the starting lineup after starter Daryl Smith injured his groin Sunday against Green Bay and won't play Thursday night against Indianapolis, allowing Peterson to reclaim his spot on defense. "I'm going to continue doing what I've been doing, trying to help this team win," Peterson said Monday. "If that pushes me in the starting lineup, that's the way it'll be. Before, it's been on special teams and coming in the game when needed. Maybe it'll be a little different (now)."
Analysis: Peterson is in the final year of a six-year, $21 million contract, and given his deteriorating relationship with Del Rio, doesn't expect to be in Jacksonville next season. So getting back in the starting lineup - against his former team, Indy, no less - will give him one more chance to audition for another job. Only if you're desperate for a Fantasy LB should you start Peterson in Week 16. Obviously, Daryl Smith shouldn't be used in Fantasy play.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson had one tackle Sunday at Chicago.
Analysis: Peterson's disappointing season continues. Don't plan on using him in IDP leagues in Week 15 against Green Bay.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson, inactive last week after getting sent home for insubordination, played mostly on special teams and in a backup role Week 11 against the Titans.
Analysis: Until Peterson is assured playing time, he's not worth owning in Fantasy play. His production has dropped off in recent seasons to begin with, and frankly we see why the Jaguars are phasing him out of the defense. Consider other LB options for Week 11 and beyond.
News: Linebacker Mike Peterson assumed his usual spot in the middle of Jacksonville's defense Wednesday. He's unsure how long he will remain there. Peterson believes the Jaguars are ready to move in another direction, willing to keep the 32-year-old team captain on the sideline for the rest of the season. Peterson was sent home twice last week for insubordination, fined $10,000 by coach Jack Del Rio and then was inactive against Detroit. It was the first time in his 10-year career he missed a game without being injured. The whole thing started when Del Rio criticized Peterson in a team meeting for a muscle-flexing celebration following a sack at Cincinnati. Peterson tried to defend himself, but Del Rio had already told players he didn't want to hear any excuses, so the coach sent him home. Peterson returned the following day and was sent home again. Peterson and Del Rio worked out things Friday, but Del Rio still benched the team's leading tackler against the Lions. "The season's not going well, older guy, move him out of the way and get ready for next year," Peterson said Wednesday. "I guess that's the way it is. That's the way I'm taking it."
Analysis: Until Peterson is assured playing time, he's not worth owning in Fantasy play. His production has dropped off in recent seasons to begin with, and frankly we see why the Jaguars are phasing him out of the defense, if that is what they are doing. Consider other LB options for Week 11 and beyond.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson, who was sent home from practice earlier in the week by Jack Del Rio for his remarks about the team following the loss at Cincinnati last week, was named among the inactives for Jacksonville's Week 10 game at Detroit.
Analysis: When active, Peterson is a No. 3 Fantasy LB, a far cry from where he was years ago. He still leads the Jags in tackles, but should obviously be benched for Week 10.
News: The Jacksonville Jaguars have announced the inactives for their Week 10 game at Detroit. Not in uniform will be: DB William James (coach's decision), RB Chauncey Washington (coach's decision), DB Brian Witherspoon (coach's decision), LB Mike Peterson (coach's decision), WR Mike Walker (knee) and DT John Henderson (knees).
Analysis: Peterson has some low-end Fantasy value in IDP leagues when he's active, but he was sent home from practice by Jack Del Rio earlier in the week. He can be ignored in all formats for this matchup. The rest of these guys have minimal or zero Fantasy value.
News: The official team Web site reports that Jaguars LB Mike Peterson is back at practice on Friday. He was previously sent home from practice for his remarks about the team following the loss at Cincinnati last week. No details have been given as to whether or not Peterson will play at Detroit in Week 10.
Analysis: When active, Peterson is a No. 3 Fantasy LB, a far cry from where he was years ago. When we know more, you'll know more.
News: Jacksonville LB Mike Peterson was sent home again Thursday and probably will be benched or suspended for this weekend's game at Detroit. Coach Jack Del Rio was still deciding how to punish the Jaguars' captain, who was asked to leave Wednesday after a confrontation with the coach during a team meeting Wednesday. According to teammates, Del Rio called out Peterson for his muscle-flexing celebration following a shoestring sack at Cincinnati on Sunday. Del Rio was upset that Peterson was reveling a play in a game the Jaguars trailed 21-3. Peterson defended himself in the meeting, saying he was trying to give the team a spark in the game, but Del Rio didn't want to hear any excuses. The coach had even told players before he singled a few out that he didn't want to hear a word from anyone.
Analysis: Keep Peterson reserved for Week 10 unless he's cleared to play. When active, Peterson is a No. 3 Fantasy LB.
News: Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio sent linebacker Mike Peterson home Wednesday, two days after Del Rio questioned his team's chemistry. Peterson was not at practice, and officials said Del Rio planned to release a statement regarding the situation later Wednesday. Peterson leads the Jaguars with 85 tackles and is in the final year of his contract and felt slighted when the Jaguars didn't offer him an extension in the offseason. It was unclear what led to Peterson's dismissal, which came as the Jaguars (3-5) try to rebound from consecutive losses to Cleveland and Cincinnati.
Analysis: Peterson is unlikely to play in Week 10 following these events. He had fallen out of favor with Fantasy owners, too, and is now no better than a No. 3 Fantasy LB.
News: Jaguars DB Gerald Sensabaugh led his team with 10 tackles in a Week 9 loss to the Bengals. Also contributing with nice efforts were LB Justin Durant (seven tackles, one for loss), DB Reggie Nelson (five tackles) and LB Mike Peterson (five tackles).
Analysis: Sensabaugh pops up with tackle totals like this on occasion, but he's not consistent enough to be used on a weekly basis. Peterson and Nelson have some low-end value in deeper IDP leagues, while Durant should be ignored. The Jaguars play at Detroit in Week 10.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson had a team-high 10 solo tackles during a Week 8 loss to the Browns. He now has 43 tackles through seven games.
Analysis: After two injury-riddled seasons, the free-agent-to-be has been healthy for all of 2008, but his production has slipped some. He used to manage 100-plus tackles easily, but now he is struggling to get just half that total. He also isn't contributing interceptions or sacks. For now, Peterson remains just a low-end Fantasy LB.
News: Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson, who is entering the final year of a six-year, $21 million deal, seems to be fired up trying to get a new contract. Peterson started talking a little smack the second that coach Jack Del Rio called for the first goal-line drill of training camp Saturday. Then he backed it up. Peterson shed a block, sliced through the line and stuffed running back Chauncey Washington for a loss. With his defensive teammates hootin' and hollerin' all around, Peterson just shook his head and returned to the huddle. Then he did it again. "I hope somebody's watching the film," he yelled. "If they keep running my way, I'm going to get me a contract. Somebody's going to get me a contract."
Analysis: The team's top tackler and emotional leader has become increasingly frustrated with his contract situation, so much so that he believes this could be his final season in Jacksonville. When healthy, he is a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues. It certainly doesn't hurt matters that he'll be looking to impress potential suitors.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson has only played in 15 games the past two years due to injury. Peterson appeared in only 10 games in 2007 after breaking his hand in November. He finished with 70 tackles (60 solo) with two sacks and one interception. In 2006, Peterson only played in five games because of a torn pectoral muscle.
Analysis: Peterson will look to rebound in 2008. When healthy, he is a No. 1 LB in IDP leagues, but that's been a concern the past two years. Look for him to be a decent sleeper in 2008 since many owners will overlook him.
News: Coach Jack Del Rio ruled out linebacker Mike Peterson on Tuesday. He will miss his eighth consecutive game with a broken right hand. Peterson broke several bones in his hand Nov. 18 against San Diego and hasn't practiced since. He hoped to have his cast removed and return to practice this week, but Del Rio said team doctors didn't give him medical clearance.
Analysis: If he ever gets healthy, Peterson would be a quality No. 1 Fantasy LB in Fantasy Playoff formats. Don't use him at New England.
News: Linebacker Mike Peterson said after Jacksonville's 31-29 win at Pittsburgh that he was going to play this weekend. Coach Jack Del Rio wasn't nearly as optimistic. Peterson missed the past seven games with a broken right hand. The team's top tackler and defensive leader broke several bones in his hand Nov. 18 against San Diego. Although he was still wearing a cast in Pittsburgh, he said he expected it to be removed this week. He was counting on receiving medical clearance and returning to practice as early as Tuesday. "I think you call that chomping at the bit," Del Rio said. "We'll see. Until the doctor clears him, it's not even really a discussion. I appreciate that. I know he's hungry to play. He had some words for the team. He traveled with us. He's very much a part of it."
Analysis: If healthy, Peterson would be a quality No. 1 Fantasy LB against the Patriots in Fantasy Playoff formats.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (hand) has been ruled out for the Wild Card game at Pittsburgh. Peterson missed the final six games of the regular season after breaking his hand against the Chargers.
Analysis: The Jaguars are holding out hope that Peterson will make it back this season, if Jacksonville makes it past the first round of the playoffs. He remains a risky Fantasy selection in playoff formats. He will head into the 2008 season as a high-end Fantasy LB.
News: The Jaguars inactives for Week 17 at Houston include LB Daryl Smith, LB Mike Peterson, WR Dennis Northcutt, DL Paul Spicer and DB Rashean Mathis.
Analysis: Keep Northcutt, Peterson, Spicer and Mathis reserved in all leagues for Week 17. The Jaguars are getting ready for the playoffs and have no need to use these players against the Texans.
News: The Jaguars have ruled LB Mike Peterson out for Week 17 at Houston, meaning his broken hand has forced him to miss the last six games of the season.
Analysis: With the Jaguars in the playoffs, they don't have any reason to risk Peterson's health. Normally a tackling machine, the linebacker will enter 2008 as a solid Fantasy IDP option.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (hand) is out for Week 16 vs. Oakland. Peterson broke his hand Week 11 and the Jaguars continue to hold him out. He might return Week 17, but the Jaguars do have a very good shot at making the playoffs and would need him more for postseason play.
Analysis: Peterson will now have missed the last five games and the Jaguars continue to hold out hope that he will at least play one game before the end of the season. Peterson's career has been filled with injuries, but when he is healthy, he is a solid NFL linebacker and Fantasy option. He has 70 tackles, two sacks and one interception this season.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (hand) is out for Week 15 at Pittsburgh. Peterson broke his hand Week 11 and the Jaguars continue to hold him out. He is out indefinitely and there has been no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Peterson will now have missed the last four games and the Jaguars continue to hold out hope that he will at least play one game before the end of the season. Peterson's career has been filled with injuries, but when he is healthy, he is a solid NFL linebacker and Fantasy option. He has 70 tackles, two sacks and one interception this season.
News: The Jaguars listed the following players as inactive for Week 14 vs. Carolina: DL Reggie Hayward (groin), LB Mike Peterson (hand), WR John Broussard (coach's decision), RB LaBrandon Toefield (coach's decision), DB Aaron Glenn (coach's decision) and DB Lamont Thompson (coach's decision).
Analysis: None of the players on this list are in a position to help your Fantasy team. Keep them reserved until further notice.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (hand) is out for Week 14 vs. Carolina. He broke his hand during a Week 11 game against the Chargers and will miss his third straight game Week 14. He is out indefinitely and there has been no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Peterson's career has been filled with injuries, but when he is healthy, he is a solid NFL linebacker and Fantasy option. He has 70 tackles, two sacks and one interception this season.
News: Jaguars inactives for Week 13 at Indianapolis include: WR John Broussard, RB LaBrandon Toefield, CB Aaron Glenn, DB Lamont Thompson, LB Mike Peterson and DE Kenneth Pettway.
Analysis: Peterson is worth holding on to in IDP leagues in case he can play again this year. Everyone else doesn't produce enough stats to warrant use in Fantasy play. Keep them off of Fantasy rosters.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson broke his hand during a Week 11 game against the Chargers and will miss his second straight game Week 13 against the Colts. He is out indefinitely and there has been no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Peterson's career has been filled with injuries, but when he is healthy, he is a solid NFL linebacker and Fantasy option. He has 70 tackles, two sacks and one interception this season.
News: For the Bills, RB Marshawn Lynch (ankle), DB Jerametrius Butler (calf), TE Tim Massaquoi (coach's decision), FB Ryan Neufeld (coach's decision), DE Bryan Copeland (coach's decision), DT Jason Jefferson (coach's decision) and emergency third QB Gibran Hamdan were all named inactive for their Week 12 game at Jacksonville. For the Jaguars, WR John Broussard (ankle), DB Rashean Mathis (groin), LB Mike Peterson (hand), RB LaBrandon Toefield (coach's decision), DB Lamont Thompson (coach's decision) and DE Bobby McCray (coach's decision) were also named inactive.
Analysis: No breaking news here as Lynch was declared out earlier this week. Mathis only practiced in a limited fashion on Friday and will miss his first game of the season. He is only a low-end Fantasy DB when healthy anyway.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson broke his hand during a Week 11 game against the Chargers and will miss his first game of the season Week 12 against the Bills. He is out indefinitely and there has been no timetable for his return.
Analysis: It was another devastating injury for the ninth-year pro from Florida. Peterson, who has 70 tackles, missed 11 games last season after tearing a chest muscle. He was slumped over at his locker after Jacksonville's victory against the Chargers and declined to comment. Peterson, who also had two sacks and one interception, is a solid Fantasy LB when healthy, but his return this season is questionable. Continue to track his progress.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson, the team's top tackler and locker room leader, broke his right hand Sunday against the San Diego Chargers and will be sidelined indefinitely. It was another devastating injury for the ninth-year pro from Florida. Peterson, who entered Sunday's game with 108 tackles, missed 11 games last season after tearing a chest muscle. He was slumped over at his locker after Jacksonville's 24-17 victory Sunday and declined to comment. Several players and coaches stopped by to console him. "He broke it in several places and the question will be whether or not four or five weeks from now he can play with a big club or not," Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said. "We'll have to assess that. Right now, he's definitely going to be out for a few weeks." He had six tackles against the Chargers.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Peterson and if he is done for the season. When healthy, Peterson is a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson was in on 14 tackles in Week 10 at Tennessee. He also had an interception -- his first of the season.
Analysis: Peterson had 50 tackles coming into the game and has been a decent start in IDP formats as a No. 2 LB. Use him in that role in Week 10 vs. San Diego.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson had 10 tackles, including nine solo, against the Colts in Week 7.
Analysis: Peterson usually gets his fair share of tackles playing in the middle of the Jacksonville defense. He has value as a No. 2 LB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Notable Jaguars defenders from Week 5 at Kansas City include: SS Sammy Knight (eight solo tackles), LB Mike Peterson (six solo tackles), CB Rashean Mathis (five total tackles), DE Rob Meier (two tackles, sack), DE Paul Spicer (two total tackles, sack) and rookie FS Reggie Nelson (one tackle, interception). DL Marcus Stroud (two solo hits) and DL John Henderson (one assist) also played.
Analysis: Of these players, Knight, Peterson and Mathis are must-starts in all IDP leagues. Everyone else is worth a look in deeper IDP leagues. The Jaguars play vs. Houston in Week 6.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson had seven tackles and two sacks Sunday against Atlanta.
Analysis: Peterson is a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues and should be used in Week 3 against Atlanta.
News: Notable Jaguars defenders from Week 1 vs. Tennessee include: Rookie DB Reggie Nelson (seven tackles, one sack, one forced fumble), LB Mike Peterson (eight total tackles), DT Marcus Stroud (seven total tackles, sack) and CB Rashean Mathis (two tackles, interception).
Analysis: Peterson and Mathis are Fantasy IDP studs that should remain active. Reggie Nelson is also someone on the rise, especially if he can continue to rack up lots of tackles. Stroud is a decent low-end Fantasy DL. All of these players should be used in Week 2 IDP league play when the Falcons come calling.
News: The Jaguars will be without leading tackler Mike Peterson for the rest of the season, another significant setback for the defense. Peterson tore a pectoral muscle early in the 41-0 victory against the New York Jets on Sunday. Tests Monday determined the severity of the injury. Coach Jack Del Rio said Peterson likely will get a second opinion, but he was confident Peterson will be place on injured reserve. "It's unfortunate," Del Rio said. "Mike is obviously a very good football player and a very spirited leader. He brings a lot of energy, a lot of temperament. He worked really hard to have a big year for us. He's played well in the middle for us since we got here in '03. That's a blow. It's another blow for us to overcome. The way we approach it is we prepare our guys to be able to step up and fill the gap. We expect guys to play well around them and we continue on our quest."
Analysis: Peterson is expected to be replaced by Jorge Cordova, though Cordova could move into an outside LB position, putting Daryl Smith or Nick Greisen at middle linebacker. Regardless, Peterson should only be on rosters in dynasty IDP leagues at this point.
News: Jacksonville LB Mike Peterson, the team's leading tackler, strained a pectoral muscle early in the 41-0 victory against the New York Jets. "I don't know how serious that is," coach Jack Del Rio said. "I know it's serious enough that he couldn't return to the game. ... We're going to keep our fingers crossed and hope that's not a serious situation there."
Analysis: The Jaguars have a bye in Week 6, so keep Peterson reserved. Continue to monitor his health before using him in Week 7 against Houston.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (knee) has been upgraded from questionable to probable for Week 3 at Indianapolis. He has practiced all week.
Analysis: Peterson did play in Week 2 vs. the Steelers and probably is just experiencing some soreness from that game. It seems he is ready to play, so IDP owners make sure you have him active in Week 3 against the ball-control happy Steelers.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 3 at Indianapolis. He did practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Peterson did play in Week 2 vs. the Steelers and probably is just experiencing some soreness from that game. To be on the safe side though, until he is upgraded to probable, keep him reserved. But if he is ready to play, get him in the lineup in IDP leagues.
News: Mike Peterson (knee) was able to play in Week 2 against the Steelers. He had two solo tackles and assisted on five others.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Peterson back into the active Fantasy lineup in all IDP leagues for Week 3 at Indianapolis.
News: Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson was upgraded to probable for Jacksonville's game Monday night against defending Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh, while receiver Matt Jones was added to the injury report with a sore groin.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. If cleared to play, it appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Steelers.
News: Linebacker Mike Peterson and defensive linemen Paul Spicer and Marcus Stroud returned to practice Friday for the Jacksonville Jaguars and are expected to play against Pittsburgh on Monday night. They remained questionable on the team's injury report, but showed signs of improvement after missing practice Thursday.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. If cleared to play, it appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Steelers.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 2 vs. Pittsburgh. He missed practice on Thursday and the Jaguars are worried that he will not be able to play on Monday. Peterson sprained a knee ligament in a preseason game Aug. 26. He returned to practice last week and started against the Cowboys. He had his left knee wrapped in ice Thursday.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. If cleared to play, it appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Steelers.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 2 vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. If cleared to play, it appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Steelers.
News: Mike Peterson, playing with a sprained medial collateral ligament, had six solo tackles, a quarterback hurry, an interception and a pass defensed in Week 1 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. It appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Steelers.
News: LB Mike Peterson (knee) is active for Week 1 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. It appears safe to keep him active in IDP leagues.
News: Linebacker Mike Peterson practiced for the second day in a row Friday, but was also listed as questionable. Peterson, the team's top tackler the last three years, sprained a knee ligament Aug. 26.
Analysis: Without Peterson, the Jaguars would have a much less experienced linebacking corps. Daryl Smith, who has started 29 games the last two years, would move to the middle and probably play alongside Nick Greisen and Jorge Cordova. That would be a disaster for the Jags against a strong running team like the Cowboys. Peterson's status needs to be watched before cementing him as a starter in Week 1. Keep him reserved until further notice.
News: Linebacker Mike Peterson returned to practice Thursday, but said he wouldn't know how his injured right knee reacted to drills until Friday. Stroud and Peterson were listed as questionable on the team's injury report. "Basically, I should be able to look at my knee (Friday) and tell," Peterson said. "It's a long season, so I definitely don't want to rush it now and have this bite me in Week 14 or Week 15. But then again, I have had this injury before so I know the timetable. I know where I need to be and the things that are expected of me."
Analysis: Without him, the Jaguars would have a much less experienced linebacking corps. Daryl Smith, who has started 29 games the last two years, would move to the middle and probably play alongside Nick Greisen and Jorge Cordova. That would be a disaster for the Jags against a strong running team like the Cowboys. Peterson's status needs to be watched before cementing him as a starter in Week 1.
News: Peterson, the team's emotional leader, sprained the medial collateral ligament in his right knee in Saturday's preseason game against Tampa Bay. He likely will not be ready for the regular season opener Sept. 10 against Dallas.
Analysis: When healthy, Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. Keep him reserved in all IDP for the first week of the season unless his status changes.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that linebacker Mike Peterson (wrist) will be held out of the team's May minicamp but is expected to be ready for training camp and the 2006 season.
Analysis: As the center of the Jacksonville defense, Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. He will continue his great play so long as he stays in that spot next season.
News: Jags LB Mike Peterson finished as a top-five Fantasy linebacker in 2005. He had 94 solo tackles, six sacks, three interceptions, a forced fumble and two recoveries, four pass deflections and a defensive touchdown.
Analysis: As the center of the Jacksonville defense, Peterson is a rock for Fantasy owners. He will continue his great play so long as he stays in that spot next season.
News: Jags LB Mike Peterson had eight tackles and a sack at Houston in Week 16.
Analysis: Peterson is useful as long as he plays a lot vs. Tennessee in Week 17.
News: Mike Peterson recorded 12 tackles (eight solo) in Sunday's 26-18 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.
Analysis: Peterson is a recommended option in IDP leagues for Week 15 against San Francisco.
News: Jags LB Mike Peterson had 14 tackles -- seven solo -- and a sack at Cleveland in Week 13.
Analysis: Peterson is useful in IDP leagues, and he should be useful vs. Indianapolis in Week 14.
News: Jaguars LB Mike Peterson was named the AFC defensive Player of the Week for Week 10. He recorded 15 tackles, one sack and an interception which he returned 26 yards for a touchdown against Baltimore.
Analysis: Those are excellent IDP numbers. Peterson is a top-noth LB option in IDP leagues when healthy. The Jaguars face the Titans on the road in Week 11.
News: LB Peterson (ribs) notched 10 tackles and one sack to lead the Jaguars at St. Louis Sunday.
Analysis: Peterson remains a top LB option in all IDP leagues when healthy. Jacksonville hosts Houston in Week 9.
News: Mike Peterson and the Jacksonville Jaguars will face the Lions at home in Week 10. Peterson is seventh in the NFL with 72 tackles.
Analysis: The Jaguars are a decent Fantasy option against Detroit this week. Jacksonville will look to establish the running game and play good clock management in this contest. They only have three interceptions and 12 sacks on the season though.
News: Peterson (ribs) played in Week 6. He had three tackles in a loss to Miami.
Analysis: Peterson is still a good option in individual defender leagues despite the poor outing.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Peterson (ribs) is questionable for Sunday's game against Miami.
Analysis: Peterson is valuable in leagues that use individual defenders. T.J. Slaughter will likely play in his place.
