News: The Jets have announced the release of linebacker Bart Scott.
Analysis: Scott had 60 total tackles last year with 2.5 sacks and an interception. He has had under 5.0 sacks in each of his last six seasons and under 70 tackles each of his last two seasons. Fantasy owners shouldn't touch Scott at this point.
News: Jets defensive back Bart Scott had five tackles and a sack during New York's 7-6 victory over Arizona in Week 13. Scott posted one of two sacks on quarterback Ryan Lindley to boost his season total to two. He also took down Seattle's Russell Wilson in Week 10.
Analysis: Scott failed to record a sack during the first half of the season as he dealt with a toe injury that forced him to miss a game. But he has bounced back with two sacks over his past games to maintain a key role in the Jets' defense. Still, he remains a low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott registered five tackles and a sack during New York's 28-7 loss to Seattle in Week 10. Scott, who returned to the lineup following a one-game absence because of a toe injury, took down quarterback Russell Wilson for one of the Jets' four sacks in the game.
Analysis: Scott quickly went back to work on establishing a new streak for consecutive games played as his previous run was halted at 119 outings with his injury in Week 8. He still isn't the major Fantasy force he was before in his career and remains a low-end option in most IDP formats.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott is active for Week 10 at Seattle after missing his previous game because of a toe injury. Scott, who was listed as questionable on the injury report, was able to suit up in the ensuing matchup after his streak of 119 consecutive games played was halted.
Analysis: It appears the bye in Week 9 was beneficial for Scott as he the additional rest helped him quickly return to the lineup. However, he is not the intimidating force he was earlier in his career and entered Saturday's contest with just 31 tackles in seven games. He has also failed to record a sack, and should be viewed as a low-end Fantasy option at this point.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott was among the team's list of inactives for Week 8 against Miami as he continues to be hampered by a toe injury. The issue, which has landed him as doubtful on the team's injury report, ended Scott's streak of consecutive games at 119. But Scott said he isn't concerned about missing his first game since 2005. "I don't care about a streak," Scott told The Star-Ledger last week. "If helping the team best is for me to be on the sideline, help these young linebackers see what's going on, then I'll do that."
Analysis: DeMario Davis is slated to earn the start in Scott's place as the veteran linebacker has been bothered by the issue since Week 3. In order for his toe to heal, Scott would need to rest it for three to four weeks, but up until now, he had been unwilling to do that. "I've always prided myself on having a high pain tolerance, playing through things, and I just want to show my teammates I'm willing to bite down and continue to play and do what I can do to help us win," said Scott, who has 31 tackles this season. But as long as he's sidelined, he's not worth a roster spot in the majority of Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott was listed as doubtful for Week 8 against Miami as he continues to be hampered by a toe injury that forced him to leave New York's last game. Scott did not participate in practice over the past week after managing just nine snaps last Sunday. DeMario Davis is slated to receive additional playing time if Scott is sidelined.
Analysis: Scott's injury could explain his recent drop in production as he has managed just 12 tackles in his past four games after totaling 19 in his first three outings of the season. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on Scott's status, but it appears he is unlikely to play in Week 8.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott managed just one tackle before being replaced by rookie DeMario Davis as a result of a lingering toe injury during New York's 29-26 overtime loss to New England in Week 7. Scott, who was listed as probable for the game after being limited on practice last week because of the issue, played only nine snaps during Sunday's game, according to the New York Post. Analysis: Scott has been listed on the injury report since Week 4 with the toe issue, but he has been able to play through it -- until Sunday. The injury could explain his recent drop in production as he has managed just 12 tackles in his past four games after totaling 19 in his first three outings of the season. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on Scott's status, but Davis could earn more playing time to speed up his development in the NFL.
News: Jets linebacker Bart Scott finished with eight tackles, including three solo stops, during New York's 27-10 loss at Pittsburgh in Week 2. Scott was active throughout the game as the Jets plugged the Steelers' running lanes and held them to just 66 yards on the ground.
Analysis: After an offseason of uncertainty, Scott remained with the Jets and continues to be an early contributor on defense. He now has 13 tackles this season, one shy of his total last year through two games. But Scott, now 32, has a habit of wearing down in the second half of the season as he posted more than five tackles only once after Week 8. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option in most IDP formats during his 11th NFL season.
News: The New York Daily News reports that the Jets have given linebacker Bart Scott permission to seek a trade. Scott's playing time decreased last season and his salary is guaranteed in 2012, so cutting him isn't something the Jets are willing to do. The paper speculates that the Giants might be interested in acquiring Scott.
Analysis: Scott totaled 66 tackles with 4.5 sacks in 2011. While the sack total was nice -- it was actually his highest since 2006 -- Scott's tackle totals were horrid. It was his worst performance since he became a regular starter in 2005. A change of scenery could afford some opportunities to Scott but it's pretty clear that he's not a great linebacker, especially in pass coverage. You might consider Scott off waivers as a one-week replacement during the season.
News: For the second time this season, Jets LB Bart Scott has back-to-back games with a sack, as he got to Eagles QB Vince Young in the fourth quarter of the Jets 45-19 loss in Week 15.
Analysis: Scott has his second-highest sack total of his career now at 4 ½ with two games remaining. He has not produced much from a Fantasy perspective, however, and is not much more than a low-end option in deep IDP formats at this point.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott registered three tackles and a sack during New York's 37-10 win over Kansas City in Week 14. Scott posted his first unassisted sack since Week 2 against Jacksonville and pushed his season total to 3 1/2 -- his highest total since 2006 with Baltimore.
Analysis: Scott's numbers haven't been as impressive like in previous seasons, but he remains a key member of the Jets' defensive unit. However, that doesn't aid Fantasy owners too much and he should be considered a low-end option in deeper IDP formats for now.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott recovered a Willis McGahee fumble late in the first quarter in Week 11. That would be the only turnover the Jets would muster on Thursday night. Scott finished with four solo tackles, but the Jets would lose to the Broncos, 17-13.
Analysis: Scott has registered 44 tackles on the year and 2.5 sacks. The veteran still holds Fantasy value in IDP leagues, but he's more of a low-end LB option these days.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott had a productive game in Week 6 against the Dolphins. He finished with five tackles and also recorded half a sack in the 24-6 win.
Analysis: Scott now has 2.5 sacks on the season, which is more than he posted in each of the last two years combined. He also has 33 tackles. Continue to view Scott as a low-end Fantasy LB in IDP formats.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott was not much of a factor in Week 5 against the Patriots. Scott finished with just two tackles in the 30-21 defeat, with only one being solo.
Analysis: Scott was unusually quiet on Sunday, finishing with just two total tackles. Still, he should be able to bounce back in Week 6 against Miami and is normally a good source for sacks and tackles. Consider him a viable option in deeper IDP Fantasy formats against the Dolphins.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott had six tackles, including four solo stops, during New York's 34-24 loss at Oakland in Week 3 on Sunday. Scott finished with the fourth-highest tackle total on the team as the Raiders rolled up a whopping 234 rushing yards.
Analysis: Despite the solid tackle total, Scott was held without a sack in a game for the first time this season. His two sacks still place him eighth in the NFL as he attempts to reach five for the first time since 2006 with Baltimore. Consider him a viable option in deeper IDP Fantasy formats.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott had four tackles and a sack during New York's 32-3 rout of Jacksonville in Week 1 on Sunday. Scott brought down Jaguars QB Luke McCown -- one of two by the Jets in the game -- for a loss of 10 yards. It was the second straight game he's notched a sack.
Analysis: Scott remains one of the most menacing defenders in the league as he anchors New York's solid linebacker corps. The 31-year-old has already matched his sack total from his past two seasons combined and remains a viable option in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: New York LB Bart Scott led his team with eight tackles, seven solo, in Sunday night's 27-24 win over Dallas. He recorded his first sack of the season as well.
Analysis: Scott was a little banged up during the preseason, but seems fine now. He's the leader on the defensive side of the ball, but Scott should be viewed as a low-end LB option in Fantasy IDP leagues. He'll try to contain Maurice Jones-Drew and the Jacksonville running attack in Week 2.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott injured his leg in last week's game against the Texans, but he did not miss a beat in Monday's game against the Giants. He started the game, got in a scuffle, and recorded a game-high eight tackles in the win including two for a loss.
Analysis: Scott appeared to be in mid-season form in the middle of the Jets top-notch defense, and the leg issue may be the last thing on his mind. We didn't expect him to miss much time anyway, though the re-assurance of seeing him perform at the level he did is always a positive. Even though he is a cornerstone of the New York defense, Scott is a player who should only be considered at the very end of IDP Fantasy drafts for now.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott hobbled off the field during the first series of Monday's preseason opener against the Texans with an apparent leg injury, but he returned soon after. Scott is expected to be good to go for the regular season.
Analysis: Scott's leg was caught under a pile produced on the game's first running play, but he returned soon after getting minimal attention from the training staff. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status going forward, though he remains a player to be avoided in the majority of formats for now. Scott is much more valuable to the Jets scheme than he is to an IDP Fantasy roster.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott said some physically threatening remarks during an interview with Newsday about Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker after Welker kept poking fun at Jets' coach Rex Ryan. "I’ll tell you what," said Scott. "Be very careful what you say about our coach. [Welker's] days in a uniform will be numbered. Put it like that." On Saturday, an NFL spokesman, Greg Aiello, confirmed the league will be investigating "comments of a physically threatening nature." They also said that "discipline" is possible. The Jets and the Patriots play in the playoffs on Sunday.
Analysis: This threat to Welker's wellbeing doesn't exactly do anything for Scott's Fantasy value. It certainly tells you how important this game is and how badly these teams do not like each other. Scott was never much of a Fantasy option in IDP leagues this season and should not be targeted heading into next year.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott had a solid performance in the Week 9 win over the Lions. Scott finished the game with six tackles and a sack.
Analysis: The sack was the first of the year for Scott, who entered the Week 9 game with 37 tackles in seven games. Scott should be viewed as a No. 3 LB option in IDP leagues most weeks and that goes for Week 10 at Cleveland.
News: New York LB Bart Scott made some noise when he got called for unnecessary roughness in Week 6 against Denver. Scott recorded six tackles against the Broncos, good for second best on the team.
Analysis: Scott has 30 tackles on the year and is usually good for around 90 on the year. Heading into Week 7 Scott should be benched as the Jets are on a bye. When they take the field against the Packers in Week 8, Scott should be viewed as a No. 3 LB option in IDP leagues.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott didn't have his best performance tackle-wise Week 3 at Miami. He finished with four tackles, including two solo.
Analysis: Scott is usually good for about 90 tackles each year. He was a decent source of sacks a few years back but isn't so much anymore. You can treat him as a No. 3 LB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott recorded four tackles in Week 2 against the Patriots. He had one solo and assisted on three others in the 28-14 win.
Analysis: Scott combined for nine tackles, including two for loss, and forced a fumble in the season opener and should have another productive year in 2010. He has recorded at least 82 tackles in each of the past five seasons and remains a remains a useful play for IDP leagues in Week 3 against the Dolphins.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott played aggressively in Week 1 against the Ravens. He combined for nine tackles, including two for loss, and forced a fumble in the 10-9 defeat. He also had two quarterback hits while playing against his former team.
Analysis: Scott was all over the place in Week 1 and seemed fired up in the battle of stellar defense. He exchanged words before and during the game with his old Baltimore teammates and proved his worth on the field. Fantasy owners should consider Scott a useful play for IDP leagues in Week 2 against the Patriots.
News: Jets defensive end Shaun Ellis and linebackers David Harris and Bart Scott are probable for the AFC championship game despite being limited at practice Friday with injuries. Ellis has a broken left hand that will be in a cast for the game against the Indianapolis Colts. He'll have surgery after the game, whether the Jets win or lose. Harris (right ankle) and Scott (left ankle) were noticeably hobbled Friday during practice. Safety Kerry Rhodes was a full participant after bumping his right knee in practice Thursday. Cornerback Donald Strickland fully participated despite breaking his right pinkie in practice earlier this week.
Analysis: Of these players, only Harris and Scott are useful for IDP play this late in the year. Consider them good options. Everyone else is no better than a low-end choice against the Colts' high-powered offense.
News: Jets LB David Harris (10 tackles), DB Kerry Rhodes (six tackles), LB Bart Scott (six tackles) and DB Lito Sheppard (six tackles) all put up decent stats in a Week 15 loss to Atlanta.
Analysis: Harris is a must-start Fantasy LB in IDP formats, while Rhodes and Scott can be used in deeper leagues. Sheppard is the only one not worth worrying about in Week 16 at Indianapolis.
News: The Jets had two players get two interceptions each Sunday against the Panthers in Darrelle Revis and Kerry Rhodes. Revis added two tackles also. Eric Smith and Jim Leonhard each had eight tackles, David Harris and Calvin Pace each had seven tackles and a sack and Bart Scott and Shaun Ellis each had four tackles.
Analysis: The Jets defense should play well again in Week 13 at Buffalo on Thursday night. Keep all of your regulars active against the Bills.
News: Jets LB David Harris (nine tackles), DB Jim Leonhard (seven tackles, sack), LB Bart Scott (six tackles), LB Calvin Pace (two tackles, sack) and DL Mike Devito (three tackles, fumble recovery) all had nice Fantasy performances in a Week 10 loss to the Jaguars.
Analysis: Harris is the real Fantasy IDP gem in this group, while Pace and Scott have some value in deeper leagues. Leonard and Devito have minimal value heading into Week 11 at New England.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott (eight tackles, sack), LB Calvin Pace (six tackles), DL Shaun Ellis (five tackles, 1 1/2 sacks), LB David Harris (five tackles, sack), DL Sione Pouha (five tackles), DL Marques Douglas (five tackles, sack), DB Jim Leonhard (four tackles, half a sack), DL Howard Green (two sackles, half a sack) and LB Bryan Thomas (two tackles, half a sack) all had solid outings in a Week 8 loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Harris is an elite LB in all Fantasy IDP formats, while Pace and Scott have solid value in deeper formats. Ellis and Leonhard are barely worth owning in deeper leagues, while Pouha, Douglas, Green and Thomas are non-factors. All of these guys should be benched in Week 9 as the Jets are on a bye.
News: Jets LB Bart Scott led the team with 10 tackles on Monday night in a loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Scott has 33 tackles on the season for the Jets. He has value in larger IDP formats but only as a low-end Fantasy LB. The Jets play Buffalo in Week 6.
News: Jets DB Kerry Rhodes (eight tackles) and LB Bart Scott (six tackles, two for loss) led the way in a Week 2 win over the Patriots.
Analysis: Rhodes' tackle totals have slipped since his great rookie season of 2005, but he's still worth using in deeper IDP leagues as a low-end starting DB. Scott also has value in larger IDP formats.
News: The New York Times is among those reporting Friday that LB Bart Scott has signed a five-year deal with the team. Scott is expected to be the new leader of the Jets defense and likely man an inside linebacker spot. Scott will be reunited with Rex Ryan, who was his defensive coordinator in Baltimore and is now the head coach with the Jets.
Analysis: Scott definitely will help this unit improve against the run, and will also be a voice in the locker room. We think this signing will really help the Jets out a bunch, especially considering Scott's experience working in Ryan's 3-4 defense (the Jets are already in a 3-4 format). He should be in line for close to 85 total tackles with some potential for sacks and forced fumbles. He's got a shot to be a No. 2 Fantasy option but it's best that you consider him a No. 3 LB worth a middle-round pick. Remember, this is not going to be the same linebacker who saw Ray Lewis eat up tons of his tackles year after year -- Scott will pick up some hits.
News: The Ravens used the franchise tag on Pro Bowl LB Terrell Suggs for the second consecutive year, a transaction that costs the team $10.2 million against the 2009 salary cap. That's the one-year salary Suggs is guaranteed if he signs their offer sheet; he can still shop himself around to other clubs but would force the team that signs him to give Baltimore two first-round picks as compensation. A three-time Pro Bowl selection who led the team with eight sacks while recording 63 total tackles last season, Suggs was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent. Now, teammates Ray Lewis and Bart Scott will be free agents while Suggs deals with the tag. Lewis has been linked to a spot with the Cowboys while Scott has been linked to reuniting with former defensive coordinator Rex Ryan in New York with the Jets.
Analysis: Suggs is expected to remain with the Ravens and should be considered a quality No. 2 Fantasy LB. Lewis might not contribute stellar tackle numbers if he moves on to a new 3-4 scheme with different nuances, and his production has taken a dip as he's gotten older. He'd also be considered a No. 2 Fantasy LB unless he starts in the middle of a 4-3 scheme. Scott could be a great sleeper in 2009 if he's working as an inside linebacker, especially in a 4-3 scheme or in a 3-4 setting where he'd emulate Ray Lewis' role. He should be considered a No. 3 option.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott totaled five tackles (two solo), one quarterback hit and one forced fumble during a Week 17 win against the Jaguars. It was his second forced fumble of the season.
Analysis: Scott had a solid 82-tackle season, but he still hasn't performed up to standards since a breakout 103-tackle season in 2006. Scott is a free agent in the offseason, so track his progress before taking a flier on him in Fantasy.
News: Baltimore LB Bart Scott had six tackles to lead the Ravens in a win over Dallas in Week 16 on Saturday night.
Analysis: Scott now has 77 tackles on the season for Baltimore to go with 1.5 sacks. He's really not worth using in Fantasy IDP play in Week 17 against Jacksonville.
News: In the Ravens' 24-10 win vs. the Redskins in Week 14, notable defensive players included: FS Ed Reed (two INTs, fumble-return for touchdown, three tackles), LB Ray Lewis (13 total tackles, sack), LB Bart Scott (six solo tackles) and LB Terrell Suggs (four total tackles, sack).
Analysis: All of these defenders should be started in Fantasy IDP league play when the Ravens host the Steelers in Week 15.
News: Ravens LB Ray Lewis (seven tackles) led the way defensively for Baltimore in a Week 13 rout of the Bengals. Also contributing: LB Bart Scott (five tackles, 1/2 sack), DB Corey Ivy (three tackles, 1/2 sack), LB Jarret Johnson (three tackles, 1/2 sack), LB Terrell Suggs (two tackles, 1/2 sack) and LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (sack).
Analysis: Lewis and Suggs are must-start Fantasy options in IDP leagues at the LB spot, while Scott has some minimal value in deeper formats. The other guys should all be ignored in Week 14 vs. Washington.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had eight tackles Sunday at the Giants.
Analysis: Scott is a good source of tackles and little else. He should be considered a No. 4 Fantasy LB in IDP leagues in Week 12 against the Eagles.
News: In the Ravens' 37-27 win at Cleveland, notable defenders included: LB Bart Scott (10 total tackles), LB Terrell Suggs (INT-TD, two total tackles) and LB Ray Lewis (four solo tackles).
Analysis: All three Ravens linebackers are worth starting in Fantasy IDP leagues, though Lewis and Suggs are far more valuable than Scott. The Ravens play at the Texans in Week 10.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had seven tackles Sunday at the Colts to lead the team.
Analysis: Scott is a decent source of tackles and should be considered a No. 3 LB in IDP leagues. Consider using Scott if you need a LB in Week 7 at Miami.
News: Notable Ravens defenders from Week 5 vs. the Titans include: DB Jim Leonhard (eight total tackles), LB Ray Lewis (seven total tackles), LB Jarrett Johnson (six total tackles), DL Justin Bannan (three total tackles, interception) and CB Chris McAlister (solo tackle, interception). Stud defenders Ed Reed and Bart Scott each registered three solo tackles while Terrell Suggs had three total tackles.
Analysis: Of these defenders, Lewis, Reed, Scott and Suggs are worth starting. Everyone else isn't consistent enough for Fantasy use, though Leonhard could develop into an option if he keeps seeing playing time for the injured Dawan Landry. The Ravens play at the Colts in Week 6, so expect all Ravens defenders to have plenty of chances to rack up big defensive stats.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott recorded seven tackles -- five solo -- Week 4 at Pittsburgh. He also recorded a sack and forced a fumble.
Analysis: Scott had only one sack last year, but he's had more at times in his career. If you own him in Fantasy, you should own him mostly for tackles. Think of him as a No. 3 LB in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: The Baltimore Ravens-Houston Texans game was rescheduled to Nov. 9 after Reliant Stadium was severely damaged by Hurricane Ike, meaning both teams will not play in Week 2. The new date also affects the Cincinnati Bengals' schedule. Houston was originally scheduled to play the Bengals on Nov. 9. Now, those teams will play on Oct. 26 and Cincinnati will take its bye week on Nov. 9, when the Texans now play the Ravens.
Analysis: It's all a little confusing, but basically Fantasy owners need to treat Week 2 as a bye week for the Texans and Ravens. So if you have any players or either defensive unit active, get them reserved immediately. The Texans will next play at Tennessee in Week 3.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had a down year in 2007 following a Pro Bowl year in 2006. Last year, Scott had 103 tackles (78 solo), 9.5 sacks and two interceptions. In 2007, Scott finished with 93 tackles (62 solo), one sack and no interceptions.
Analysis: The entire Ravens defense slipped in 2007, so Scott's play was par for the team. Look for Scott to rebound in 2008, and he should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy LB in all IDP leagues.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott (eight tackles), DB Corey Ivy (five tackles, two passes defended), DB Willie Gaston (five tackles, pass defended), DB Dawan Landry (five tackles, pass defended) and DL Terrell Suggs (three tackles, sack, pass defended) all had nice outings in Baltimore's 22-16 overtime loss to the Dolphins in Week 15.
Analysis: Suggs is a No. 1 DL and should start in Week 16 against the Seahawks. Scott has some value as a low-end backup LB, but along with the rest of this group (excluding Suggs) should not be starting against Seattle.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott (hand) is listed as probable for Week 14 vs. Indianapolis. He took full practice reps all week. Scott, who took two crucial personal foul penalties near the end of a Week 13 loss to the Patriots, has 74 tackles and one sack this season.
Analysis: Scott's numbers are bit down from his All-Pro season in 2006 and that has something to do with the departure of Adalius Thomas. He is merely a low-end Fantasy LB these days. He is expected to be active Week 14.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had eight tackles Sunday against Cleveland.
Analysis: Scott is a No. 2 LB in IDP leagues and should be started in Week 12 at San Diego.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had four tackles Sunday against the Bengals.
Analysis: Scott is a No. 3 LB in IDP leagues and is worth using in Week 11 against the Browns.
News: DL Kelly Gregg (six tackles), LB Ray Lewis (six tackles), LB Bart Scott (six tackles), DL Terrell Suggs (five tackles), LB Jarret Johnson (four tackles) and DL Haloti Ngata (four tackles) led the way defensively for the Ravens in their 9-7 win over the 49ers in Week 5.
Analysis: Lewis, Suggs and Scott are all solid IDP options at their respective positions and will be great starts in Week 6 against the Rams.
News: LB Bart Scott (eight tackles), SS Dawan Landry (seven tackles), LB Ray Lewis (six tackles), NT Kelly Gregg (five tackles), LB Jarret Johnson (four tackles) and LB Terrell Suggs (four tackles) all made nice contributions in the Ravens' 27-13 loss to the Browns in Week 4.
Analysis: Scott, Lewis, and Suggs are all quality starts in IDP leagues, while Landry and Johnson have very minimal Fantasy value. The Ravens play at San Francisco in Week 5.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott had four tackles Sunday against Arizona.
Analysis: Scott is a solid LB in IDP leagues and should be used in Week 4 against the Browns.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott made eight tackles in the Ravens' Week 2 victory over the Jets.
Analysis: When teams try to run away from Ray Lewis, players usually end up in the grasp of Scott, who has established himself as a top-flight LB and should be used as a No. 2 option in IDP leagues in 2007. The Ravens host the Cardinals in Week 3.
News: No one would have blamed Bart Scott if he stayed home this week instead of attending the Baltimore Ravens' voluntary three-day camp. After all, Scott established himself last season as one of the finest linebackers in the NFL. He became a starter for the first time, recorded a career-high 119 tackles and four sacks, and made the Pro Bowl. The guy deserves a vacation. But Scott was playing football Tuesday, working up a sweat with a squad of mostly free agents and rookies. "I don't have a life. It's out of pure boredom," he said with a grin. "It's either this or stay at home and play PlayStation all day."
Analysis: Scott has established himself as a top-flight LB and should be used as a No. 2 option in IDP leagues in 2007.
News: Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis withdrew from the Pro Bowl because of a hand injury he sustained in a playoff loss to Indianapolis. Lewis' place on the AFC roster will be filled by teammate Bart Scott, who was an alternate and will be making his first appearance in the game in Honolulu. Lewis was a first alternate who replaced injured linebacker Al Wilson of the Denver Broncos. He led the Ravens' top-ranked defense with 164 tackles, the ninth time in his 11-year career he finished as Baltimore's leading tackler. He also had five sacks and two interceptions.
Analysis: Scott finished with 130 tackles, second to Lewis, and had 9 1/2 sacks and two interceptions. Without question, he is a top-25 Fantasy linebacker.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott (ankle) has been upgraded from questionable to probable for Week 17 vs. Buffalo.
Analysis: It looks as though Scott will be ready to play Sunday. He is a must-start Fantasy LB for Week 17.
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 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: Scott had seven solo tackles and assisted on another in Week 13 at Cincinnati. He also had a sack, two quarterback hurries and a pass defensed.
Analysis: Scott remains a must-start IDP player for Week 14 at Kansas City. He might be called on quite a bit to track down RB Larry Johnson.
News: Notable Ravens defenders from Week 12 include: LB Ray Lewis (six solo tackles, sack), DE Terrell Suggs (six solo tackles, two sacks), CB Chris McAlister (five solo tackles), DE Trevor Pryce (four solo tackles, two sacks, forced fumble) and FS Ed Reed (three solo tackles). LB Bart Scott added four total tackles and 1.5 sacks, CB Corey Ivy had a sack while DE Jarret Johnson had 0.5 sacks.
Analysis: Lewis, Suggs, Scott, McAlister and Reed are all must-start IDP options, while DE Trevor Pryce is also usable as a low-end option. Ivy and Johnson shouldn't be used at this time. The Ravens play at Cincinnati in Week 13.
News: Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker Ray Lewis underwent a minor surgical procedure Thursday to have a pocket of blood drained from his swollen back, and is unlikely to play in Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons. However, the seven-time All-Pro wasn't immediately ruled out and is expected to remain listed as questionable on the injury report. Lewis severely bruised his back during a Nov. 5 game against Cincinnati when he collided with teammate Ed Reed's knee. Team officials were hopeful Thursday the outpatient surgery will allow Lewis to return soon, but they weren't optimistic about him playing against Atlanta. "I don't know how much of a difference it (the surgical procedure) will make for this week, but it's my understanding that it will make a huge difference for him and we'll see how he is at the end of the week," Ravens coach Brian Billick said. "He's made real progress, I think." Meanwhile, the Ravens (7-2) are preparing versatile outside linebacker/defensive end Jarret Johnson (6-foot-3, 270 pounds) to start at inside linebacker with former practice squad member Dennis Haley filling in on obvious passing downs. Starting inside linebacker Bart Scott will move over to play Lewis' spot, with Johnson occupying Scott's normal position.
Analysis: Keep Lewis reserved in all IDP leagues, and expect the Ravens DST to struggle without their best player.
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: Ravens LB Bart Scott leads the AFC with five sacks.
Analysis: Scott has been a Fantasy IDP stud this season with his 40 tackles, five sacks and one interception. If you missed the boat on Scott, we are truly sorry. He should be in your active rotation at LB while he is on a hot streak. The Ravens play the Panthers in Week 6, a team that likes to run the ball.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott (15 total tackles, interception), LB Ray Lewis (14 total tackles), safety Ed Reed (seven total tackles, safety) and DL Kelly Gregg (eight total tackles) contributed to the team's 16-13 win vs. San Diego in Week 4.
Analysis: Ray Lewis and Ed Reed remain must-start Fantasy players weekly. Bart Scott is a reliable No. 3 Fantasy LB while Gregg is a good reserve DL in deeper leagues.
News: The Ravens upgraded LB Bart Scott (foot) to probable for Week 4 vs. San Diego. Scott practiced with the team on Friday.
Analysis: Scott has been turning in some impressive stat sheets the first couple of weeks on his way to 18 tackles and five sacks. Playing in a swarming defense like Baltimore, he probably will continue to chances to make plays. Consider him a high-end No. 3 Fantasy LB in IDP leagues and moving up.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott (foot) is questionable for Week 4 vs. San Diego.
Analysis: Scott has been turning in some impressive stat sheets the first couple of weeks on his way to 18 tackles and five sacks. Playing in a swarming defense like Baltimore, he probably will continue to chances to make plays. Consider him a high-end No. 3 Fantasy LB in IDP leagues and moving up.
News: Scott had a pair of sacks, four solo tackles and four assists in Week 3 at Cleveland. He also had five quarterback hurries and a pass defensed.
Analysis: Despite the dominant performance, Scott is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues which use IDPs for Week 4 at San Diego.
News: According to reports, the Baltimore Ravens have re-signed LB Bart Scott to a three-year, $13.5 million contract, including a $6.5 million signing bonus.
Analysis: Scott totaled 62 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, two fumbles forced and recovered with a pass deflection in 2005. He started 10 games, replacing Ray Lewis when he was lost for the season.
News: Ravens LB Bart Scott totaled 62 solo tackles, 4.5 sacks, two fumbles forced and recovered with a pass deflection in 2005. He started 10 games, replacing Ray Lewis when he hurt himself and was lost for the season.
Analysis: Scott is a free agent this offseason and could land a starting MLB job with another team. Definitely keep tabs on him if you're an owner in an IDP league.
News: LB Bart Scott, starting for Ray Lewis, had a dozen total tackles with a sack vs. Houston in Week 13.
Analysis: Scott is a good option for IDP owners who are missing Ray Lewis.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that Lewis (thigh) will likely be out until Nov. 20 against Pittsburgh. The Ravens defense is also dealing with the absence of SS Ed Reed (high ankle sprain) for Week 8 at Pittsburgh Monday.
Analysis: Tommy Polley, normally a WLB, will move to the middle to replace Lewis. Since the Steelers are one of the top rushing offenses in the league, this could prove to be a tough matchup for the Baltimore DST. Bart Scott will replace Polley at WLB and Chad Williams will start for Reed. Polley is the most attractive IDP starter for the coming week, but Scott could be a nice bye-week replacement in larger leagues.
