News: The Boston Herald reports that LB Adalius Thomas, who sat out the 2010 season, would like to play in 2011. Thomas had two workouts in 2010 — the Jets and the Dolphins — and neither team signed him. His agent told the newspaper he will look to find work for Thomas this offseason.
Analysis: It does seem Thomas could land on an NFL roster this season, but how much he plays remains to be seen. Ignore Thomas in Fantasy IDP leagues until further notice.
News: Jets coach Rex Ryan confirmed the team brought in LB/DE Adalius Thomas for a physical, but the team has no immediate plans to sign him.
Analysis: The Dolphins worked out Thomas on Tuesday, but apparently didn't feel the urge to sign him. It does seem Thomas could land on an NFL roster this season, but how much he plays remains to be seen. Ignore Thomas in Fantasy IDP leagues until further notice.
News: The Dolphins worked out veteran LB Adalius Thomas on Tuesday.
Analysis: With Channing Crowder banged up and possibly heading to IR, Thomas could provide an immediate impact for Miami as the Dolphins haven't found a concrete replacement for Crowder yet. Thomas won't be worth adding in IDP Fantasy leagues until he proves he can still contribute at the age of 32, but the potential is certainly there.
News: Jets coach Rex Ryan acknowledged on Sunday having spoken to former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Adalius Thomas, a favorite of his when he was an assistant there, about signing with New York. "I would say it would be a possibility," Ryan said. "I'm not going to rule that out." Ryan said there were no plans to bring Thomas in for a physical as of Sunday afternoon, but said if the team were to make the move to sign him, he'd prefer it to be soon. "There's still some other things involved, other factors involved," Ryan said. "Sometimes what really makes sense might not make sense to the organization, so we'll see."
Analysis: The team needs to evaluate where Thomas would fit on the roster, and who would have to be let go before it signed him. Thomas, who was mostly disappointing the last three seasons with New England, was a two-time Pro Bowl selection with the Ravens. "I don't want to bring A.D. up here not to have a roster spot for him if he plays the way we expect him to play," Ryan said. "Right now, I can't say specifically that he would be on our team, so I don't want to bring him in until I know that if he plays to expectations that there would be room for him. That's something we're looking into." The Jets have a whole to fill at linebacker with Calvin Pace expected to miss the first few weeks of the season with a foot injury. Even if Thomas signs with the Jets, if he is not a full-time player, then he won't be much of a Fantasy option. Leave him on waivers until further notice.
News: The New England Patriots on Monday released former Pro Bowl linebacker Adalius Thomas, who joined the team as a high-profile free agent in 2007, but fell into disfavor with coach Bill Belichick last season. The decision, announced by the team on Monday, leaves Thomas, 32, free to sign with any other NFL team.
Analysis: Thomas had 14 1/2 sacks in his three seasons in New England. But his lowest total came in 2009, when he had only three sacks. He was a healthy scratch for the Patriots in two games last season, and was one of four players sent home by Belichick after arriving late for practice during a snowstorm in December. If he can land in the right situation with a 3-4 defense, he could retain some Fantasy value. Expect him to sign somewhere soon.
News: The Patriots released LB Adalius Thomas on Monday. Thomas originally signed with New England as an unrestricted free agent in 2007. Last season, he played in 14 games with 11 starts and finished with 31 total tackles, three sacks and two passes defensed. Thomas has played in 135 NFL games and has accumulated 584 tackles, seven interceptions, 17 forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries and 79 special teams tackles.
Analysis: Thomas was a bad fit with New England after joining the team from Baltimore. He will look to land somewhere else this offseason, but this move was expected. In the right situation, Thomas can be a solid LB in IDP leagues, so keep an eye where he ends up.
News: The Patriots have announced the following players as inactive for Week 14: LB Adalius Thomas, DB Terrence Wheatley, RB Fred Taylor, DL Myron Pryor, WR Sam Aiken and DL Ron Brace.
Analysis: Thomas got in some trouble earlier this week for missing a meeting and is now clearly in Bill Belichick's dog house. Be sure to bench the LB in deeper IDP leagues. Taylor might be back soon, so continue to bench him, while Aiken has some minimal value in super-deep formats.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas is surprised he was sent home by coach Bill Belichick for being late to a team meeting. Thomas was one of four players who were sent home for tardiness on Wednesday. He said Thursday that he was surprised because he had called ahead to say he might be late as players are instructed to do. Thomas also said he almost got into a car accident as he drove to Gillette Stadium during a snowfall that tied up traffic. He said he showed up about nine minutes late for the 8 a.m. meeting and was told by Belichick to leave. Thomas also said he doesn't know how Belichick thinks and he's dumbfounded by a lot of things that go on but he just does what he's told.
Analysis: Thomas should be able to play in Sunday's game against Carolina despite the incident at practice. Consider Thomas a low-end LB in IDP leagues.
News: The Providence Journal reports that four Patriots including WR Randy Moss were late for practice Wednesday because of snow in the New England area. Subsequently, they were sent home for tardiness and not allowed to practice with the team. No word has been given as to whether or not they will be fined or disciplined further. Defensive players Adalius Thomas, Gary Guyton and Derrick Burgess were the other three Patriots sent home.
Analysis: The expectation is that all four players will be allowed to play on Sunday vs. the Panthers, assuming they don't miss any more practices. If anything changes on this front we'll be sure to let you know. The defensive players don't warrant Fantasy use, but Moss is a must-start No. 1 Fantasy WR from week to week.
News: Patriots LB Jerod Mayo (12 tackles, one for loss), DB Brandon McGowan (11 tackles), LB Tully Banta-Cain (nine tackles), LB Adalius Thomas (four tackles, sack) and DB Pat Chung (three tackles, sack) led the way defensively in a Week 9 win over the Dolphins.
Analysis: Mayo has been shaking off the rust after missing basically the first three games of the season, and this outing might be a sign that he's ready to perform like a No. 1 Fantasy LB once again. McGowan is a decent low-end DB in deeper IDP leagues while the other three aren't really worth concerning yourself with in Week 10 at Indianapolis.
News: The status of Patriots LB Adalius Thomas for Week 7 against the Buccaneers in London is still up in the air. Thomas, a healthy scratch in Sunday's 59-0 win over the Titans for the first time since his rookie year in 2000, practiced Tuesday. Asked if he was leaning toward activating him Sunday, coach Bill Belichick said, "as we always do, we'll activate the players that we feel give us the best chance to win this game."
Analysis: Thomas was apparently healthy Sunday, but he missed practice Thursday and Friday for unknown reasons. Since he's back healthy now, he'll likely play and once again be a No. 3 LB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas, RB Fred Taylor, DB Terrence Wheatley, DB James Sanders, DL Ron Brace and WR Joey Galloway have all been ruled inactive for Week 6 vs. Tennessee.
Analysis: Thomas is a bit of a surprise inactive. He wasn't on the injury report all week, but he did miss practice Thursday and Friday for unknown reasons. We wait to hear for further explanation on Thomas' absence. Taylor is still out battling an ankle injury and Galloway still isn't playing because of ineffectiveness. Keep all of these players reserved for Week 6.
News: The Boston Globe reports that New England LB Adalius Thomas was not at practice on Thursday or Friday for non-injury reasons. The reason that Thomas was not practicing is not known.
Analysis: Thomas is listed as probable, so he is expected to play Week 5 at Denver. It is odd that he hasn't been practicing, but Fantasy owners should plan on using him as a low-end option in IDP formats.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas had two tackles Sunday against the Ravens.
Analysis: Thomas is worth using as a No. 3 LB in IDP leagues in Week 5 at Denver.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (foot) went through limited practice reps this week as the team prepares for Week 2 at N.Y. Jets. Thomas played in the opener against the Bills and recorded a sack.
Analysis: The Patriots aren't really forthcoming with injury news, so we will have to play this by ear. We expect Thomas to be in the lineup Sunday against the Jets, but if anything changes, we will let you know. Thomas is more of a No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy LB when healthy.
News: New England LB Adalius Thomas had a nice game Week 1 on Monday night in a win over the Bills. Thomas sacked QB Trent Edwards and finished with 5 tackles.
Analysis: Thomas has the ability to do great things for the Patriots defense this season after he was placed on IR in December of last year. You can consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy LB for Week 2 at the Jets.
News: The Patriots officially placed LB Adalius Thomas on Injured Reserve Friday with a broken forearm. He won't play again this season.
Analysis: Thomas can safely be put on waivers in all leagues now. He should make a full recovery and be a considerable No. 2 Fantasy LB in 2009.
News: New England has listed LaMont Jordan as inactive for Week 13 against the Steelers. Also inactive for Week 13's game are: QB Matt Gutierrez (3rd QB), WR Kelley Washington, TE Tyson DeVree, DL Ty Warren and LB Adalius Thomas.
Analysis: Thomas and Jordan are the two players in this list with any Fantasy value but have missed multiple weeks now for the Patriots. Both could return in Week 14 at Seattle but for now should remain reserved or on waivers. The same goes with the rest of the players on this list.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (forearm) has been ruled out for Week 13 vs. Pittsburgh. It will be the third straight game he misses.
Analysis: It seems as though Thomas will be out for most of the regular season and might return for the playoffs if the Patriots can clinch a berth. Thomas is usually a high-end Fantasy LB when healthy, but can be ignored until further notice.
News: The Patriots have listed the inactives for their Week 12 game at Miami. Not in uniform will be: QB Matt Gutierrez (third QB), DB Jason Webster (coach's decision), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), DB Mike Richardson (concussion), TE Tyson DeVree (coach's decision) and LB Adalius Thomas (forearm).
Analysis: Thomas and Jordan, the two players in this list with any Fantasy value, were declared out earlier this week, so you should have already made plans to replace them. Everyone else on this list should continue to be ignored.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (forearm) and LB Eric Alexander (hamstring) have both been ruled out for Week 12 at Miami.
Analysis: It seems as though Thomas will be out for most of the regular season and might return for the playoffs if the Patriots can clinch a berth. Therefore, he and Alexander -- who is just a backup LB -- have marginal Fantasy appeal at this time. Thomas is usually a high-end Fantasy LB when healthy.
News: The Boston Globe reports Patriots LB Adalius Thomas is definitely out for Thursday night's game against the Jets, but he's not definitely out for the season. According to the report, Thomas had surgery Wednesday to repair a broken right forearm. Several reports had said Thomas broke his left forearm last Sunday during the Patriots' 20-10 victory over the Bills, but the report said the injury was to Thomas's right arm. The Patriots have held off on placing Thomas on injured reserve, which would officially end his season. Until he is placed on IR, he is still eligible to play this season.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Thomas, but don't plan on using him the rest of this season in any IDP leagues.
News: New England RB LaMont Jordan is inactive for Week 11 against the Jets with a calf injury. The following players are also inactive for the game Thursday: QB Matt Gutierrez (3rd QB), CB Terrence Wheatley, CB Lewis Sanders, LB Eric Alexander, DL Ty Warren and LB Adalius Thomas.
Analysis: Jordan should continue to sit on the bench on rosters in deeper leagues. When healthy, he's a candidate to play in the multi-faceted Patriots running game. None of the rest of players mentioned above have any Fantasy value at this time and should be kept off rosters. The Patriots are at Miami in Week 12.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas was not put on injured reserve Tuesday and instead listed on the participation report as did not practice with a forearm injury. It was reported that Thomas broke his arm last week against Buffalo and could be out for the season.
Analysis: Don't expect Thomas to play in Week 11 against the Jets, but who knows what the Patriots will do with this injury. For now, don't plan on having Thomas on your IDP team any time soon.
News:Adalius Thomas is the latest Patriots starter who might miss time after the linebacker suffered what could be a long-term arm injury. Thomas didn't return after leaving the Patriots 20-10 win over the Buffalo Bills midway through the second quarter Sunday. The Patriots said only that he hurt his arm, but ESPN.com, quoting unnamed sources, reported Thomas broke his left forearm and "likely" will miss the rest of the season. Team spokesman Stacey James said Monday the next injury update would come after Tuesday's practice. A spokesman for Thomas' agent, James "Bus" Cook Jr., said the player had not returned a phone call to Cook. "I think it'll be difficult" to replace Thomas," said Mike Vrabel, the team's other starting outside linebacker. "He was a leader. He was a veteran guy that played well and we'll just have to find guys to step up."
Analysis: Thomas leads the Patriots with five sacks in his second season with the team. He was a rookie on Baltimore's team that won the Super Bowl after the 2000 season and was chosen for Pro Bowls in 2003 and 2006. The Patriots already have lost safety Rodney Harrison for the season with a torn quadriceps in his right thigh. Two key players on offense also are out for the season: quarterback Tom Brady with a knee injury suffered in the opener and running back Laurence Maroney with a shoulder injury. Thomas might not yet be out for the season, but it's very doubtful we will see him on the field Week 11. Fantasy owners might want to start making alternate plans. Thomas was a viable Fantasy LB. His loss also hurts the Patriots DST.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas has a broken forearm, according to the Boston Herald, citing team sources. It is unclear which arm he broke; ESPN says it's his left arm while the Herald's sources say it's his right.
Analysis: Thomas was having a decent enough season until this injury. If true, Thomas will be lost for the season and thus not worth owning in Fantasy play. We'll keep you posted on news regarding Thomas, but it's not expected to be good.
News: The Patriots had several defensive players make plays Sunday at the Colts. LB Adalius Thomas had three tackles. Rookie LB Jerod Mayo had 11 tackles. LB Mike Vrabel had six tackles. DL Ty Warren had two tackles. DB Ellis Hobbs had one tackle. And DL Richard Seymour had two tackles.
Analysis: The Colts didn't give these players many chances to make plays besides tackles. Look for them to bounce back in Week 10 against Buffalo and use all your regular starters.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas made seven tackles, two of them for sacks, in a Week 8 win over the Rams.
Analysis: Thomas is a dominant inside linebacker for New England and a decent No. 2 Fantasy LB in IDP formats. The Patriots visit the Colts in Week 9.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas led his team with five tackles and a sack in a Week 5 win over the 49ers. Also contributing were DL Ty Warren (four tackles) and DL Vince Wilfork (four tackles).
Analysis: Thomas is a dominant inside linebacker for New England and a decent No. 2 Fantasy LB in IDP formats. Warren has minimal Fantasy as a low-end DL option, while Wilfork has basically zero value. The Patriots visit New England in Week 6.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas was held without a sack for the first time this season as New England fell 38-13 to the Dolphins in Week 3.
Analysis: Thomas is a dominant inside linebacker for New England, and just had an off day like most of his team did on Sunday. He remains a solid option in all formats, but you'll need to bench him in Week 4 as the Patriots are off.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas dropped Jets QB Brett Favre for a 20-yard sack late in the fourth quarter Week 2 to lock up a 19-10 win for New England. Thomas also had three tackles.
Analysis: Thomas has two sacks through the first two games and continues to be a dominant inside linebacker for New England. He is no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy LB heading into Week 3 against the Dolphins.
News: Notable Patriots defenders from Week 1 vs. Kansas City include: SS Rodney Harrison (14 total tackles), LB Tedy Bruschi (12 total tackles), LB Mike Vrabel (six total tackles, two sacks), CB Ellis Hobbs (four total tackles, sack, interception, forced fumble), rookie LB Jerod Mayo (six solo tackles) and LB Adalius Thomas (five total tackles, sack).
Analysis: Just about everyone listed above is worth using in standard Fantasy play when the Patriots play at the Jets in Week 2. The ball should be in the air plenty with Brett Favre under center in this huge grudge match.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas had 78 tackles (57 solo), 6.5 sacks, one interception, two forced fumbles and one defensive touchdown in his first season in New England after seven years in Baltimore.
Analysis: Thomas excelled with the Pats and should continue to shine playing in this defense. Consider him a No. 1 option in all IDP leagues because he gets you sacks, tackles and turnovers.
News: Patriots LB Tedy Bruschi (nine tackles), LB Adalius Thomas (seven tackles), DB Rodney Harrison (six tackles), LB Junior Seau (five tackles, half a sack), DB James Sanders (four tackles, pass defended) and DB Asante Samuel (four tackles, pass defended) all had nice contributions in New England's 28-7 win over the Dolphins in Week 16.
Analysis: Thomas is a solid No. 2 Fantasy LB, while Samuel and Harrison are nice No. 2 DB options. Those three are the only starting options in IDP leagues among this group for Week 17's game against the Giants.
News: Notable Patriots defenders from the team's Week 15 game vs. the Jets include: LB Adalius Thomas (nine total tackles, 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles), LB Junior Seau (nine total tackles, two sacks), FS Eugene Wilson (one tackle, one interception returned for a touchdown), DL Jarvis Green (three assists, one sack) and DL Richard Seymour (two total tackles, one-half sack).
Analysis: Believe it or not, only Thomas is the only reliable Fantasy option of the people listed above. Seau, Wilson, Green and Seymour are all good choices in deeper IDP leagues. The Patriots host the Dolphins in Week 16.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas had five tackles and a sack Sunday against the Steelers.
Analysis: Thomas remains a solid LB in IDP leagues and should be started in Week 15 against the Jets.
News: The New England Patriots were so impressed with Adalius Thomas' skills and versatility that they lured him away from Baltimore. The linebacker's all-around talents should help Week 13 when he returns to the field where he played the past seven years. With Rosevelt Colvin out for the season, Thomas could replace him at outside linebacker after spending the season at an inside spot. Wherever Thomas lines up, the unbeaten Patriots will have a very productive player. "He's making plays all over the field," cornerback Ellis Hobbs said Wednesday. "I'll put my money in the bank on him as far as being able to make plays out there."
Analysis: With the Ravens, Thomas played linebacker, defensive end and even cornerback. With the Patriots, who signed him to a five-year contract in the offseason as a free agent, he's started nine games at inside linebacker. In the other two, he came off the bench in the ninth game against Indianapolis when the Patriots started just two linebackers, then began the next game, at Buffalo, at right linebacker when only one inside linebacker started. Thomas has managed 49 tackles, three sacks, one interception and one touchdown this season. Consider him a viable Fantasy LB for Week 13.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas was in on three tackles in Week 11 vs. Buffalo, all of Bills QB J.P. Losman. He picked up 2.5 sacks in the game.
Analysis: Thomas remains a No. 1 Fantasy LB in all IDP formats. The Pats host the Eagles in Week 12.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) went through limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 at Indianapolis. Thomas has been bothered by the ankle injury since banging it up Week 5 against the Browns, but has not missed a game. He has 38 tackles, 1/2 sack, one interception and one touchdown in eight games.
Analysis: The Patriots have been easy on Thomas during the week as to make sure not to stress his lingering ankle injury. He is expected to face the Colts and remains a high-end Fantasy LB. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas racked up seven tackles in New England's 49-28 win over Miami in Week 7.
Analysis: Thomas remains a No. 1 Fantasy LB in all IDP formats. The Patriots host the Redskins in Week 8.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 7 at Miami. He went through limited practice reps all week. Thomas, who injured his ankle Week 5 against Cleveland but remained in the game, was active Week 6 against the Cowboys despite being listed as questionable.
Analysis: Thomas will likely remain on the injury report as long as he is taking it easy in practice. However, he should be able to play Sunday barring any setbacks. He has 29 tackles, 1/2 sacks, one interception and one touchdown through six games. He is a solid Fantasy LB.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (knee) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 7 at Miami. Thomas, who injured his ankle Week 5 against Cleveland but remained in the game, was active Week 6 against the Cowboys despite being listed as questionable.
Analysis: Thomas will likely remain on the injury report as long as he is taking it easy in practice. However, he should be able to play Sunday barring any setbacks. He has 29 tackles, 1/2 sacks, one interception and one touchdown through six games. He is a solid Fantasy LB.
News: Patriots WR Donte' Stallworth (knee), DB Asante Samuel (foot) and LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) were all listed as questionable for Week 6 at Dallas, but all are active and expected to start Sunday.
Analysis: Great news for Fantasy owners. Stallworth is worth using as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy WR. Samuel is a solid source of interceptions in IDP leagues. Thomas is a must-start Fantasy IDP option. It appears safe to keep all players active Week 6.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 6 at Dallas. He went through limited practice reps all week. The Patriots survived a scare in Week 5 against the Browns when Thomas went down with a left ankle injury in the second quarter. Mike Vrabel was blocked into his leg and Thomas left the field not putting weight on the leg. However, he did return after halftime and finished with six total tackles (five solo).
Analysis: Thomas was one of the Patriots' key acquisitions in the offseason and losing him after five games would have been huge. It appears the injury is minor, but it doesn't surprise us that he is on the injury report Week 6 as the team prepares to play the Cowboys. Thomas is a must-start Fantasy LB when healthy. Continue to track his progress leading up to Sunday's inactive, but the Patriots will sorely need him in this must-win game.
News: Patriots LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 6 at Dallas. The Patriots received a scare in Week 5 against the Browns when Thomas went down with a left ankle injury in the second quarter. Mike Vrabel was blocked into his leg and Thomas left the field not putting weight on the leg. However, he did return after halftime and finished with six total tackles (five solo).
Analysis: Thomas was one of the Patriots' key acquisitions in the offseason and losing him after five games would have been huge. It appears the injury is minor, but it doesn't surprise us that he is on the practice report Week 6 as the team prepares to play the Cowboys. Thomas is a must-start Fantasy LB when healthy. Continue to track his progress leading up to Sunday's inactive.
News: The Patriots received a scare in Week 5 against the Browns when LB Adalius Thomas went down with a left ankle injury in the second quarter. Mike Vrabel was blocked into his leg and Thomas left the field not putting weight on the leg. However, he did return after halftime and finished with six total tackles (five solo).
Analysis: Thomas was one of the Patriots' key acquisitions in the offseason and losing him after five games would have been huge. It appears the injury is minor, but don't be surprised if he pops up on the injury report Week 6 as the team prepares to play the Cowboys. Thomas is a must-start Fantasy LB when healthy.
News: Adalius Thomas recorded a solo tackle, assisted on two others and also had a pass defensed in Week 2 against the Chargers. Thomas also showed off the wheels after stepping front of a Philip Rivers pass and going the other way for a 65-yard interception return for touchdown.
Analysis: The former Ravens standout is fitting in nicely with the Patriots. He remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option in IDP Fantasy leagues heading into Week 3 against the Bills.
News: In his debut with the Patriots on Sunday against the Jets, LB Adalius Thomas had five tackles.
Analysis: Thomas remains a low-end No. 1 LB in IDP leagues. He will do more in Week 2 against San Diego and should be started in most leagues.
News: New Patriots LB Adalius Thomas has recorded two sacks in two appearances vs. the Jets in his career. Thomas makes his debut for the Patriots in Week 1 against New York.
Analysis: Thomas should be considered a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues and should do well playing in the Patriots defensive system.
News: Linebacker Adalius Thomas signed with New England on Saturday, giving the Patriots one of this season's top free agents and a versatile pass-rushing outside linebacker who can do for the team what Willie McGinest once did. Thomas led Baltimore with 11 sacks last year and played in the Pro Bowl, where the Patriots' Bill Belichick was his coach for the AFC. He also can play defensive end, much like McGinest, one of the mainstays of New England's three Super Bowl winners. "I'm a football player. I don't play a position. Whatever is needed for me to do here, I'm going to do," Thomas said. "That's why (the Patriots) have been so successful here because they don't look at it as position. They look at it as football."
Analysis: Consider Thomas a solid No. 2 Fantasy LB in IDP league play next season regardless of how he plays in New England. Expect to see him used as a defensive lineman, an interior linebacker and an outside tackler. He should be very productive, but the change of scenery and/or increase in his wallet could set him back a little bit, thus keeping him out of No. 1 status.
News: The Baltimore Ravens released a statement confirming that they will not use their franchise tag on any of their free agents, including LB Adalius Thomas, meaning that he will become a free agent on March 2. The Ravens don't have the salary cap room to keep Thomas, who would earn $7.2 million next year if he were franchised. The Packers, 49ers and Jets are considered potential suitors for Thomas. "We have decided not to 'franchise' Adalius Thomas," Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome said. "Our hope is that we can re-sign him. Our plan is to compete at a championship level in 2007 and beyond."
Analysis: Thomas' 2006 got off to a fast start but slowed down as the season wore on. In total, he finished with 83 tackles (64 solo), 11 sacks, a fumble recovery, six passes defensed and an interception. It's his first season with double-digit sacks. Consider Thomas a solid No. 3 Fantasy LB in IDP league play next season, depending on where he lands and if he stays as an outside linebacker or is moved inside.
News: On Wednesday, the Ravens listed LBs Bart Scott (ankle) and Adalius Thomas (ankle) on the injury report as questionable. Neither one practiced in preparation for Week 17 vs. Buffalo.
Analysis: Monitor their status, for when they play they are usable in Fantasy IDP leagues as top-end No. 2 Fantasy linebackers.
News: The Ravens DST held the Steelers to seven points with two interceptions, a fumble recovery and five sacks. DB Ed Reed had two tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery. DB Corey Ivy had four tackles and a sack. DB Dawan Landry had two tackles, a sack and an interception. LB Ray Lewis had four tackles and a half-sack. DL Haloti Ngata had six tackles and a sack. DL Terrell Suggs had three tackles and a half-sack. DL Adalius Thomas had five tackles and a half-sack. DL Kelly Gregg had three tackles and a half-sack.
Analysis: Consider the Ravens a No. 1 option for Week 17 against Buffalo and use all regular IDP players.
News: The Ravens defense continued their dominance over the league in Week 15 by shutting down the Browns. They did give up 17 points, but only allowed 236 yards. Also, the Ravens came up with six sacks (Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Trevor Pryce 2, Bart Scott, Kelly Gregg 1/2 and Adalius Thomas 1/2) and two interceptions (Chris McAlister and Dawan Landry).
Analysis: The Ravens are one of the top Fantasy DST options and should be a must-start every week. They play the Steelers in Week 16. Also, all of the Ravens individual defensive stars in Week 15 are solid options in IDP leagues. Feel free to use them Week 16.
News: The Ravens defense played a big role in their Week 14 win over the Chiefs. They gave up only 276 yards and 10 points. They had two interceptions (both by Ed Reed), one fumble recovery and five sacks (Terrell Suggs, Bart Scott, Trevor Pryce, Ray Lewis and Adalius Thomas).
Analysis: The Ravens stars on defense shined in a Week 14 win over the Chiefs. All the above mentioned defensive players are solid in options in IDP leagues and should be used Week 15 against the Browns. Also, consider the Ravens DST a must-start Fantasy option since there is a good chance they will face inexperienced Browns QB Derek Anderson.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 13 vs. Cincinnati.
Analysis: Thomas hasn't practiced all week, but it is likely the Ravens just want to rest him before Thursday. He should be able to play, so consider Thomas a low-end No. 2 Fantasy LB at Cincinnati in Week 13.
News: Ravens DE/LB Adalius Thomas totaled four total tackles, a sack and a fumble return for a touchdown vs. Pittsburgh in Week 12.
Analysis: Consider Thomas a low-end No. 2 Fantasy LB in IDP league play at Cincinnati in Week 13.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) has been upgraded from questionable to probable for Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Thomas will likely play on Sunday, so make sure to put him in your active Fantasy lineup.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 12 vs. Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Thomas was in this same situation last week, but did play against the Falcons. Expect him to play on Sunday against the Steelers, but continue to monitor the situation in case he has a setback. He is a solid Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Ravens LB Mike Smith (shoulder) is out, while DL Kelly Gregg (foot), LB Adalius Thomas (ankle) and LB Ray Lewis (back) are listed as questionable for Week 11 vs. Atlanta. None of these players practiced on Wednesday.
Analysis: It is still uncertain whether Lewis will be able to give it a go on Sunday, so you will have to check back with us later in the week for further updates on his playing status. He and Thomas are must-start Fantasy players in IDP leagues, if active. Gregg is also a solid Fantasy DL, while Smith shouldn't be bothered with.
News: The Tennessee Titans scored an unexpected 26 points against the Ravens defense in Week 10. The Ravens also yielded 367 yards. The Ravens did manage to get two sacks and one interception. DB Dawan Landry and LB Adalius Thomas had the sacks for the Ravens. Ed Reed had the team's interception.
Analysis: The Ravens were playing without LB Ray Lewis and it appeared to effect the defense's chemistry. Lewis should be back in Week 11 against the Falcons and the Ravens DST remain a strong Fantasy option. Reed and Thomas are must-start guys in IDP leagues, whereas the rookie Landry has been a pleasent surprise this season and could be used as a low-end Fantasy DB.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (neck) is listed as probable for Week 10 at Tennessee.
Analysis: Thomas is having a breakout season with 41 tackles, seven sacks and one interception. He should be owned in pretty much every Fantasy IDP league with those kind of numbers. He is only listed as probable at this time and there is a good chance he will play against the Titans.
News: Sacks by DL Trevor Pryce and LB Adalius Thomas, and interceptions from DB Dawan Landry (two), LB Ray Lewis and DB Ronnie Prude against New Orleans in Week 8 helped the Ravens get a sack and interception in every game this season, breaking the franchise's all-time record.
Analysis: Consider the Ravens DST a must-start every week no matter the opponent.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (neck) is listed as probable for Week 9 vs. Cincinnati.
Analysis: Thomas has been on an absolute tear to start the season and is a must-start Fantasy LB in IDP leagues for that reason.
News: Notable Ravens defenders for Week 8 at New Orleans include: LB Ray Lewis (seven total tackles, interception), FS Ed Reed (five total tackles), LB Bart Scott (six total tackles), DE Adalius Thomas (four tackles, sack), CB Dawan Landry (two interceptions, one TD) and DB Ronnie Prude (one INT-return for TD).
Analysis: Lewis, Reed, Scott and Thomas are must-starts in Fantasy IDP league play, while Landry and Prude aren't worth owning outside of the deepest of keeper formats.
News: The Baltimore DST had two interceptions against Carolina QB Jake Delhomme and also added one sack and a fumble recovery. LB Ray Lewis recovered the fumble and also had nine tackles. LB Adalius Thomas had seven tackles and a sack. DB Chris McAlister had six tackles and an interception. DB Dawan Landry had three tackles and an interception.
Analysis: The Ravens DST had a rough game against Carolina but will get back on track in Week 8 against New Orleans.
News: Adalius Thomas (neck) was able to play in Week 5 at Denver. He had four solo tackles, an assist, sack and quarterback hurry in the loss.
Analysis: Thomas has been a great Fantasy IDP player this season. It appears safe to get him back into the active Fantasy lineup for Week 6 against Carolina.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (foot) is listed as questionable for Week 5 at Denver.
Analysis: Thomas has been a great Fantasy IDP player this season. As long as he is healthy, he should be starting in all leagues. Only shall he be benched if he starts to post so-so numbers on a weekly basis. Otherwise, use him while he is making plays.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas (foot) has been upgraded from questionable to probable for Week 3 at Cleveland.
Analysis: Thomas is coming off an excellent game against Oakland, where he had seven tackles, two sacks and an interception. One of the sacks went for a safety. He is an excellent starter in IDP leagues every week.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas had two sacks and ran back a fumble for a touchdown in two games against the Browns last season.
Analysis: Thomas is coming off an excellent game against Oakland, where he had seven tackles, two sacks and an interception. One of the sacks went for a safety. He is an excellent starter in IDP leagues every week.
News: The Ravens DST gave up only six points against the Raiders and had a safety, three interceptions, a fumble recovery and six sacks.
Analysis: Baltimore's DST is a must-start in all leagues and should do well against Cleveland in Week 3. Several individual players did well, including DL Adalius Thomas (seven tackles, two sacks and an interception), LB Ray Lewis (seven tackles and an interception), DL Terrell Suggs (seven tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble) and LB Bart Scott (five tackles and a sack).
News: LB Adalius Thomas had six tackles and an assist at Tampa Bay Sunday.
Analysis: Thomas is worth starting as a No. 3 LB in most IDP formats against Oakland in Week 2.
News: Ravens LB Adalius Thomas finished 2005 with 69 solo tackles, nine sacks, two interceptions three fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles, three pass deflections and three defensive touchdowns (tops in the NFL among LBs).
Analysis: Thomas was everywhere on the field, partially because Ray Lewis wasn't on the field for most of the year. Still, he's a heck of an athlete who should contribute to Fantasy teams in 2006.
News: Thomas had four solo tackles, an assist, a sack and a forced fumble in Week 16 against the Vikings.
Analysis: Thomas has really emerged as an outstanding defender and solid IDP option in all leagues.
News: Thomas (thigh) had five solo tackles, he assisted on one other and he had a sack in Week 15 against the Packers. He also had a fumble recovery which he scooped up for a 35-yard touchdown to cap the scoring in a laugher.
Analysis: Thomas is a solid Fantasy option in Week 16 against the Vikings in IDP leagues.
News: Thomas (back) was able to play in Week 14 at Denver. He had a hand in eight tackles, seven of them solo.
Analysis: Thomas is a strong play for Week 15 in IDP leagues as he tries to wrangle Sam Gado and the Packers on Monday night.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Thomas (elbow) underwent surgery Tuesday that will keep him out for six weeks.
Analysis: Terrell Suggs will replace Thomas in the lineup.
News: Baltimore LB Adalius Thomas sustained a fracture in the elbow area and will likely require surgery.
Analysis: Rookie Terrell Suggs could see more playing time in the base defense with Thomas out.
