News: With the Colts opting not to trade veteran Dwight Freeney thus far this offseason, signs point to him staying with the only club he's ever known. That means an expensive salary for him this season, and it also means a position change. With the Colts moving to a 3-4 base defense, the team is going to ask Freeney to play as an outside linebacker. “For me, it's just getting familiar with all those nuances,” he told SiriusXM NFL Radio. "My line of sight, walking around (pre-snap), dropping into coverage -- I'm doing those things. It's going to take a little time at the beginning to get used to and as comfortable as I have been having my hand in the ground (at end) and being in one position."
Analysis: The move to linebacker will be nice for the Colts but it hurts Freeney's Fantasy value. As an outside linebacker, Freeney isn't expected to put up the tackle totals that most middle linebackers do, and that means a limited amount of Fantasy points for him. If you're in a league that doesn't count tackles then he's OK as a No. 3 option. But if tackles count, Freeney's more of a late-round reserve choice.
News: Just a couple of days after the Colts committed big bucks to pass rusher Robert Mathis, the team is reportedly trying to trade Dwight Freeney. Sources have told ESPN that the Colts are taking calls regarding Freeney's availability. He reportedly has a $19 million cap number this season and does not want to restructure his deal. He's also in the final year of his deal.
Analysis: Freeney had 8.5 sacks last season, his first year without double-digit sacks since an injury-shortened 2007. He's great in leagues where sacks count for a lot and/or tackles do not count since he doesn't rack up a lot of tackles (53 total over last three seasons). In standard IDP formats, he's probably just a low-end No. 2 DL because of the tackle issues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney totaled two sacks Week 14 against the Ravens and topped 100 sacks for his career. "He's one of those guys that probably still has a lot of sacks left in him as well. We're certainly glad he's on our side," coach Jim Caldwell said.
Analysis: While Freeney reached the career milestone Week 14, he hasn't been making a ton of plays in 2011. He is up to 7 1/2 sacks, with four of his sacks coming in two games. Freeney is a low-end Fantasy start this year.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney tallied two tackles and a sack during the Colts' 27-19 loss to Carolina in Week 12. Freeney took down Panthers QB Cam Newton during the second quarter for his first sack since Week 5 against Kansas City.
Analysis: Freeney now has 5 1/2 total sacks, but he's struggled to maintain the torrid pace he had at the beginning of the season. His five-game stretch without a sack put a dent in his possibility of reach double digits in sacks for the fourth consecutive season. Perhaps Sunday's outing will energize the 31-year-old for the remaining five weeks. Consider him a viable option in most Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney is active for Week 8 at Tennessee, despite dealing with a nagging knee injury. Freeney was considered questionable for Week 8 entering Sunday due to that knee.
Analysis: After turning 31 years old during the offseason, Freeney has seemingly become inconsistent on the field. He has 4 1/2 sacks this year, but has not recorded one in the past two games -- his longest stretch of the season. Still, he should be viewed as a viable Fantasy option in most IDP formats when healthy.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney is considered questionable for Week 8 at Tennessee because of a knee injury. Freeney was a full participant in practice on Friday after not being able to take part in the previous two sessions this week.
Analysis: After turning 31 years old during the offseason, Freeney has seemingly become inconsistent on the field. He has 4 1/2 sacks this year, but has not recorded one in the past two games -- his longest stretch of the season. Still, he should be viewed as a viable Fantasy option in most IDP formats when healthy.
News: For a second straight week Colts DL Dwight Freeney did not make a tackle. The Colts lost to the Saints, 62-7, in Week 7.
Analysis: Freeney has 4 1/2 sacks through seven games, but has been held off the stat sheet four times now. That is not what Fantasy owners in IDP leagues like to see. For now, he's still a low-end DL option, but a few more outings like this and his stock will fall.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney recorded no stats in Week 6 against the Bengals.
Analysis: Freeney has been held off the stat sheet in three games this season. But he still has 4 1/2 sacks through six games and his ability to pressure the QB is the reason you keep him active in Fantasy IDP formats. It's just that he loses some value because he is a hit-or-miss player on a weekly basis.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney had four tackles and 1 1/2 sacks during the Colts' 28-24 loss to Kansas City in Week 5 on Sunday. Freeney assisted with Robert Mathis on a sack of QB Matt Cassel to give him multiple sacks in two of his past three games.
Analysis: Freeney, who was considered questionable for the game, didn't appear to be limited by an abdominal injury and tied his season high in tackles. The veteran defensive end now has 4 1/2 sacks this year and should be considered a viable option in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney was active for Week 5 against Kansas City after being limited by an abdominal injury during practice. Freeney was listed as questionable on the injury report, but practiced in full on Thursday and Friday.
Analysis: Freeney was also questionable for Week 4 with an ankle injury, but he was able to play against Tampa Bay. The 10-year veteran has six tackles and three sacks in his past three games. Consider him a quality option in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdominal) is listed as questionable for Week 5 vs. Kansas City. Freeney practiced in full Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday.
Analysis: Freeney was questionable for Week 4 with an ankle injury, but he played. He should play Week 5 as well despite another injury. Coach Jim Caldwell doesn't like listing players as probable, but Freeney has been known to play at less than 100 percent. Consider him a viable Fantasy DL for Week 5.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (ankle) was active for Week 4 against the Buccaneers. He was able to practice in full during the week leading up to Monday night.
Analysis: Freeney is the team's most aggressive pass rusher and should be able to add to his three sacks on Monday night. While he doesn't rack up a ton of tackles, his ability to get to the quarterback makes him a viable Fantasy DL in IDP leagues. Continue to view him as such heading into Week 4.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (ankle) was officially listed as questionable for the Monday night game in Tampa Bay Week 4 after Saturday's practice. Freeney is dealing with an ankle injury and had practiced in full earlier in the week.
Analysis: Freeney is the team's most aggressive pass rusher and should be healthy for the Week 4 game on Monday night. While he doesn't rack up a ton of tackles, his ability to get to the quarterback makes him a viable Fantasy DL in IDP leagues. Continue to view him as such heading into Week 4.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney played well in Week 3 against the Steelers. Freeney collected a pair of sacks in the 23-20 defeat and also forced a fumble that led to a Colts defensive touchdown. He finished with four tackles, three solo and three quarterback hits.
Analysis: Freeney is the team's most aggressive pass rusher and showed why on Sunday night. While he doesn't rack up a ton of tackles, his ability to get to the quarterback makes him a viable Fantasy DL in IDP leagues. Continue to view him as such heading into Week 4.
News: After being limited in practice Friday and sitting out Wednesday and Thursday, Colts DL Dwight Freeney was active for Week 3 against the Steelers. He had been dealing with an abdomen injury.
Analysis: Freeney is the team's most aggressive pass rusher and should remain a strong option in IDP formats for his ability to get after the quarterback, often resulting in forced fumbles. Continue to keep him active, now that he is healthy again.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) is listed as questionable for Week 3 vs. Pittsburgh. He was limited in practice Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: There haven't been any reports surfacing about Freeney actually missing Week 3, so perhaps he was just getting rest during the practice week. Check back for inactives on Sunday just in case, but Freeney should play Week 3 and that makes him a viable Fantasy DL in IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney forced a fumble in Week 2 against the Browns. He managed his first two tackles of the season, including a sack, in the game.
Analysis: Freeney remains the team's most aggressive pass rusher. He should remain a strong option in IDP formats for his ability to get after the quarterback, often resulting in forced fumbles. Continue to keep him active, while healthy.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney recorded his 10th sack of the season in the fourth quarter of the Week 17 win over the Titans. It's the third straight year that Freeney has registered 10 or more sacks. It's the seventh season that he has had 10 or more sacks. It was the only tackle he registered on the afternoon.
Analysis: Freeney was the only Colts player to register a sack on Sunday, and it was the second straight game in which he was able to take down the opposing QB. He finished the regular season with 25 tackles, but the 10 sacks is still among the best in the NFL. He also forced five fumbles on the season, which is even more reason to continue to view him as a viable Fantasy option heading into 2011.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney only had one tackle in Week 16 against the Colts, but he made it a big one. He recorded his ninth sack of the year when he brought down QB Jason Campbell in the 31-26 win.
Analysis: Freeney only has 24 tackles on the year but remains a solid pass rusher for the Colts. He has 93 sacks in his nine-year career and could do even more damage with one game to go in 2010. Continue to view Freeney as a viable option in most Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney totaled two tackles (one solo) and one quarterback hit in Week 14 against the Titans. He also forced a fumble of Kenny Britt that was recovered by the Colts. It was Freeney's fifth forced fumble of the season.
Analysis: Freeney has really picked up his performance as of late. He has five sacks and three forced fumbles in his last seven games. He is once again becoming a nice play in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney recorded another sack Week 13 against the Cowboys, his third in four games and fifth in sixth. He had none during a four-game stretch from Week 3 to Week 6.
Analysis: Freeney's sack Sunday was his only tackle, which is the main problem with him. He's pretty much a sack-or-bust Fantasy option. Then again, most defensive linemen are that way. Freeney is worth using as a No. 2 option in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney was not able to record a sack in the Week 12 loss to the Chargers, but he did hit QB Philip Rivers before the night was done. Otherwise he added a solo tackle in the matchup.
Analysis: Freeney is still one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL, and he continues to get that attention from opposing offenses. Still, he is a top-notch sack artist and he should be used as such in Fantasy play moving forward.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney recorded his seventh sack of the year in Week 11 against the Colts. He was able to bring down QB Tom Brady for Indianapolis' lone sack of the game. Freeney finished with three tackles in the 31-28 loss.
Analysis: Freeney has recorded at least one sack in three of his last four games including two straight. He looks on pace to post his third consecutive 10-plus sack campaign and remains a viable start in most IDP leagues, especially while he's playing like this.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney was able to bring down Carson Palmer for a 10-yard loss in the Week 10 win over the Bengals. He also managed three solo tackles on the day, including one for a loss. Freeney forced a fumble when TE Jermaine Gresham tried to do too much after catching a pass.
Analysis: Freeney has six sacks in nine games, which seems pedestrian for a guy like Freeney, who finished with 13 1/2 last season. Still, he faces constant double-teams and RB chips throughout each game and right now, teammate Robert Mathis is benefiting with 7 1/2 sacks on the year.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney was swarmed by the Eagles all day in Week 9 as he had trouble getting into the backfield. He recorded just two tackles in Indy's 24-26 loss to Philly.
Analysis: Freeney was double and triple teamed all day, which makes for a rough afternoon. While he is one of the best defensive lineman in the business, his play on the field makes his teammates better and doesn't always translate into great numbers for himself. He has five sacks on the year to go with 11 tackles. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable start in most IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney played well in Week 8 against the Texans. Freeney recorded two sacks in the 30-17 victory, including one late in the fourth quarter where he stripped the ball out of Matt Schaub's hand which wrapped up the win for the Colts. He finished with two tackles, but both of them were sacks.
Analysis: Freeney now has five sacks on the season and continues to establish himself as one of the league's best pass rushers. He has had to deal with constant double teams all season long, but has still managed to find ways to get into the opposing team's backfield. Consider him a solid start in most IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney did not record a sack or a tackle for that matter in the Week 6 win over the Redskins. He was able to get his hands on a Donovan McNabb pass, and knocked it down.
Analysis: Freeney has now gone four games without sacking the opposing QB. The Colts go into a bye week this week and maybe Freeney can re-discover his form to try and get back on track Week 8 against the Texans. Freeney should still be considered a solid start in IDP leagues as he can take affect a game in many ways.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had only a tackle for loss, which wasn't a sack, in Week 5 against the Chiefs. He has nine tackles in five games and no sacks in three games.
Analysis: Freeney got off to such a fast start before teams started to double up on him again and now he is having trouble getting to the QB. Freeney is never a guy that gets many tackles, but as long as he is a threat for 10 sacks or more, he is still usually a decent Fantasy play.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had just one tackle in Week 4 against the Jaguars. He has failed to record a sack in two straight games.
Analysis: Freeney has eight tackles and three sacks on the year, but failed to get to Jaguars QB David Garrard. Heading into Week 5, Freeney and the Colts host a Chiefs team that has a solid offensive line. They've allowed just two sacks this season, which won't make it easy for Freeney and company. Despite that fact, Freeney should still be considered a solid start in IDP leagues as he can take affect a game in many ways.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney has held in check in Week 3 against the Broncos. Freeney recorded just two tackles, both solo in the 27-13 win. He did not record a sack or get credited with a hit on the quarterback.
Analysis: Sunday was the first week of the season Freeney did not record a sack. He faced constant double teams all game long and could never make it to the quarterback. We expect a much better game out of him in Week 4 against the Titans. Freeney is worth a look as a No. 1 or 2 DL in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney, who recorded a sack Week 1 at Houston, had two more Week 2 against the Giants. He also forced two fumbles and finished with three tackles, including two solo.
Analysis: Freeney has been one of the league's better sack artists over the last few years and had 13 1/2 last year. The Colts jumped out to an early lead Sunday, which allowed him and Robert Mathis to pursue the opposing quarterback with reckless abandon. Whenever that happens, you can expect the duo to put up big numbers. Freeney is worth a look as a No. 1 or 2 DL in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney managed to pick up a sack of Houston quarterback Matt Schaub on Sunday in a 34-24 Week 1 loss. Freeney got his sack in the first half as he finished with two total tackles in the game. Coming into the game, Freeney had 12.5 sacks against Houston over 14 career games.
Analysis: Freeney has definitely owned the Texans in recent seasons and he finished last year with 13.5 sacks total. Freeney started his 2010 season off with a sack in Week 1 and we believe he might be able to get to Peyton Manning's brother Eli and the Giants in Week 2. He is a solid option in Fantasy IDP leagues as a defensive lineman.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney appears to be on his way to regaining his Pro-Bowl form after an ankle injury hobbled him during the playoffs. He sustained a third-degree ligament tear in his right ankle late in the AFC Championship Game, but after healing during the offseason, Freeney has declared himself ready for 2010. He hasn't had any problems in nearly a week of practice during training camp. "I feel pretty good," he said. "I'm out there, I'm working." Freeney said while the Colts might ease him into the flow at times to make sure he doesn't stress the ankle too much, his conditioning is ideal. "I feel like I am in real good shape right now," he said. "I know this, this is the best I'm going to feel. It is not an issue at all."
Analysis: Health is the only question mark for Freeney, as his production is not debatable after recording 84 sacks in eight NFL seasons. If he's healthy, and he's a good bet to be 100 percent by the start of the regular season if he's not there yet, mark Freeney down for double digits in sacks. That's good enough to make him a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy option in IDP leagues.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney said Thursday the ankle injury that limited him in last year's Super Bowl loss to the Saints is still lingering, but it shouldn't cause him any problems heading into 2010. "I have a little scar tissue, but that's to be expected," he said. "I just have to stretch it out here and there. It's feeling good, though. ... Stability-wise, it's 100 percent. We are just working at it, stretching and doing the things that we need to do."
Analysis: Freeney should be fine for the start of the season, and he remains a quality DL in IDP leagues. He doesn't post a lot of tackles, but his sack totals at a weak position make him worth a mid-round pick in all IDP formats.
News: The Colts took TCU defensive end Jerry Hughes with the 31st pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Hughes fits perfectly into the Colts' defense that prefers speed to brawn and has become increasingly aggressive under defensive coordinator Larry Coyer. Hughes gives the Colts more versatility and the ability to give Freeney and Mathis breathers so they can be even more effective. "He gives us a lot of flexibility to create third-down packages that we have not had, and we like that," Colts President Bill Polian said. "And he runs well enough that he should be a force on special teams, too."
Analysis: Freeney is expected to be healthy and thus be a starter for the Colts this season, but with Hughes breathing down his neck and some large salary cap numbers in his future, his long-term prognosis in Indy is not as bright. Freeney remains a middle-end No. 2 Fantasy DL (he doesn't get a ton of tackles) worth a mid-round pick, but if you own him in dynasty/keeper leagues you might want to get a backup plan in place (Hughes would qualify).
News: According to the Super Bowl XLIV pool report, Colts DE Dwight Freeney didn't practice on Friday as he continues to rehab his right ankle sprain. "This is right in line with our plans," coach Jim Caldwell said. "He's making very good progress."
Analysis: Freeney is a huge question mark for the game. He should be fine for the start of the 2010 season, however.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney has a third degree right ankle sprain and is questionable for Super Bowl XLIV against the Saints. "He's working extremely hard at trying to get it back in shape," head coach Jim Caldwell told Sirius NFL Radio. "He's down in Miami. He is certainly getting treatment and things of that nature. We have one of our guys down there with him from our staff and also he's working with some other folks as well."
Analysis: Freeney is a huge question mark for the game. He should be fine for the start of the 2010 season, however.
News: The Colts have listed the following players as inactive for the season finale in Week 17 at Buffalo: DB Jerraud Powers, TE Gijon Robinson, LB Clint Session, K Adam Vinatieri, DL Antonio Johnson, RB Chad Simpson and DL Dwight Freeney.
Analysis: Freeney came up with two sacks last week despite playing through this abdomen injury but the Colts want to use Week 17 for him to get healthy for the playoffs. He can be cut in most seasonal leagues at this point.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had a pair of quarterback sacks during a Week 16 loss to the Jets. Freeney came into the game battling an abdomen injury and was questionable. But that didn't stop him from upping his sack total to 13 1/2.
Analysis: Freeney did quite well despite the injury and not having fellow pass rusher Robert Mathis lined up across the field. This is his highest sack total since recording a career-high 16 in 2004. Freeney is usually a decent Fantasy play when healthy, but we aren't sure how much action he will see in Week 17 as the Colts rest up for the playoffs.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) is active and expected to start Week 16 vs. N.Y. Jets. He was questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Freeney was also active in Week 15, but sat most of the game against the Jags are a precautionary measure. It is not sure how much he will play in Week 16, so he is somewhat of a risky start.
News: Colts coach Jim Caldwell kept both Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, nursing abdomen and quadriceps injuries respectively, on the bench most of Week 15 at Jacksonville for precautionary reasons. There had been talk all week about Caldwell resting some key players since his team already has a first-round bye and home-field advantage locked up throughout the AFC playoffs.
Analysis: Freeney and Mathis are two of the better sack men in the game and are normally worth starting in all Fantasy IDP leagues, but now that the Colts have clinched, they might spend most of their time on the sidelines. If you have viable alternatives, go with them instead Week 16 against the Jets.
News: Colts defensive linemen Dwight Freeney (abdomen) and Robert Mathis (quadriceps) and defensive back Antoine Bethea (foot) are all active for Week 15 at Jacksonville.
Analysis: Freeney and Mathis both get enough sacks to start in Fantasy IDP leagues, and Bethea is a good enough tackler to serve as a No. 2 DB even if he has only four interceptions.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) did not practice for the third straight day on Wednesday as Indy prepares for Jacksonville in Week 15 in Florida. Freeney is listed as questionable for the game.
Analysis: Freeney has been on the practice injury report before with this injury and was able to play through it last week. We don't think he'll miss the Thursday night affair and like him as a solid Fantasy IDP player for any league.
News: The Colts defense had a strong showing on Sunday in a Week 13 win over the Titans. Clint Session led the way with 13 tackles and a forced fumble that Eric Foster recovered. Melvin Bullitt was the second-leading tackler with 12 of them and Gary Brackett had 10 of his own. Dwight Freeney was the only player to sack QB Vince Young, adding a tackle to his stat line. Jacob Lacey was the lone player to intercept Young in the game.
Analysis: The Colts defense was able to shut down the Titans’ offense more than expected Week 13. Session and Freeney should continue to be considered solid Fantasy options looking ahead to Week 14 against the Broncos. Brackett should be thought of as a No. 2 or 3 option in IDP formats while Lacey, Bullitt and Foster are not worth having active in IDP formats.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney has been listed as active for the team's Week 13 game against the Titans.
Analysis: Freeney is now a safe play and it's a good idea to get him active as a No. 2 DL where available. The Colts DST will have an added presence in the pass rush as a result.
News: CBSSports.com has learned that Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) is expected to play vs. Tennessee in Week 13. Freeney participated fully in Friday's practice, but is listed as questionable for the game and is considered a game-time decision.
Analysis: This is great news for Fantasy owners in IDP formats who have been waiting patiently for Freeney's return. He will be a safe play and it's a good idea to get him active as a No. 2 DL where available. The Colts DST will have an added presence in the pass rush as a result.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) participated fully in Friday's practice, but is listed as questionable for Week 13 vs. Tennessee.
Analysis: Freeney should be able to play on Sunday, so consider him a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney returned to practice Thursday and CB Kelvin Hayden worked out for the second straight day, meaning both could play Sunday against Tennessee. Freeney missed last week's game with an abdominal injury. Hayden has missed four straight games with a knee injury.
Analysis: It appears like Freeney and Hayden will return against the Titans. Consider Freeney a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues, and Hayden is a low-end Fantasy DB when healthy.
News: There is a possibility Colts DE Dwight Freeney could return for Week 13 against the Titans, coach Jim Caldwell said Monday. Freeney (abdomen) missed Sunday's game at the Texans. "Dwight's coming along," Caldwell said, adding that more will be known "in the next couple of days."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney's status during the week and hope he can return against the Titans. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues, and he makes the Colts DST a better Fantasy option as well.
News: The Colts listed the following players as inactive for Week 12 at Houston: DL Dwight Freeney, QB Jim Sorgi, K Adam Vinatieri, WR Anthony Gonzalez, DB Aaron Francisco, DL Keyunta Dawson.
Analysis: Freeney, Vinatieri and Gonzalez have been dealing with lingering injuries all season and have not been much help in Fantasy. None of the other players listed have any Fantasy appeal. Leave them reserved in all formats.
News: ESPN reports that Colts coach Jim Caldwell has decided to hold DL Dwight Freeney (abdomen) out of Indianapolis' Week 12 game at Houston.
Analysis: Freeney played with this injury in Week 11 and finished with no stats. Be sure to bench the DL stud in all IDP Fantasy formats.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (questionable, hip) was not listed among the inactives for Week 11 at Baltimore.
Analysis: Freeney is a solid option in IDP formats and should be active in all formats.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney has been listed as questionable for the team's Week 11 game at Baltimore with a hip injury. Freeney was a full participant in practice on Friday.
Analysis: Freeney is a solid option in IDP formats and should be able to play Week 11 at Baltimore. Keep him active in all formats unless he pops up on the inactives list Sunday.
News: Notable Colts defenders from Week 9 include: LB Clint Session (14 total tackles, interception), CB Jerraud Powers (10 total tackles, interception), CB Jacob Lacey (nine total tackles), DB Antoine Bethea (nine total tackles, forced fumble), DE Dwight Freeney (four total tackles, 1.5 sacks) and DE Robert Mathis (three total tackles, half a sack).
Analysis: Of these defenders, Freeney, Mathis and Bethea are fine IDP league options while Session and Powers might begin pulling their weight in Fantasy play. The Colts host the Patriots in Week 10.
News: Several Colts defenders played well Sunday against the 49ers. Bob Sanders had two tackles and an interception. Antoine Bethea had seven tackles. Clint Session had eight tackles. Robert Mathis had two tackles and a sack. Dwight Freeney had two tackles and a sack. Gary Brackett had five tackles.
Analysis: The Colts defenders should continue to play well in Week 9 against Houston. Use your regular IDP options against the Texans.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney said Friday he will play on Sunday vs. the 49ers. He missed practice Wednesday and Thursday with a knee injury sustained Sunday against St. Louis, but returned to practice Friday afternoon.
Analysis: Freeney remains one of the better defensive ends in the NFL and his sack potential, especially in this game, makes him a good No. 1 Fantasy DL for Week 8.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (knee) did not participate in practice on Thursday as the team prepares for its Week 8 game against the 49ers. He is considered questionable for the contest.
Analysis: Freeney is a solid starting option in IDP formats and should continue to be active as long as he is able to play Week 8.
News: Colts DB Antoine Bethea (eight tackles), DL Daniel Muir (seven tackles, half a sack), DL Eric Foster (three tackles, sack), LB Clint Session (three tackles, half a sack) and DL Dwight Freeney (two tackles, sack) led the way in a Week 7 rout of the Rams.
Analysis: Bethea and Freeney are solid starting options in Fantasy IDP leagues who will be worth using in Week 8 vs. the 49ers. The others have minimal value.
News: The Colts got solid play from several key defensive players Sunday at the Titans. LB Gary Brackett returned from his two-game absence due to a knee injury and finished with six tackles. DE Dwight Freeney had one tackle for a sack. DB Antoine Bethea had eight tackles and a forced fumble. And DE Robert Mathis had three tackles.
Analysis: The Colts have a bye in Week 6, so keep all of these players reserved. They return in Week 7 at St. Louis, which should be a great matchup for the Colts defense.
News: Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney thought playing Sunday was worth it, even if the soreness in his right leg was still lingering Monday. The former league sacks champion acknowledged he was not feeling 100 percent one day after making a surprise appearance in Indy's 34-17 victory over Seattle. Freeney was in for about 20 plays despite having a strained right quadriceps that many expected to keep him off the field up to three weeks. He expects to play again this week at Tennessee, too. "Is it like nothing ever happened? No," Freeney said. "Is it good enough to play with? Yes." Freeney attributed his rapid recovery to trainers, team doctors and the power of positive thinking, saying he never doubted he would heal quickly enough to play - as long as it didn't make the injury worse. Quarterback Peyton Manning called Freeney's presence Sunday inspirational. Freeney, however, said it's just part of the job. "You know it (your career) is only going to last so long, and you never know when it's going to be over," he said. "So you want to maximize your opportunities to be out there. This is what I love to do."
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Freeney active in all leagues. Consider him a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues against the Titans.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney played Sunday despite missing practice last week with a quadriceps injury. Coach Jim Caldwell said Monday that Freeney came out of the game Sunday against Seattle in good shape. "I understand he's doing well," Caldwell said. Freeney had two tackles and a sack against Seattle.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Freeney active in all leagues. Consider him a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues against the Titans.
News: Colts DB Melvin Bullitt (seven tackles), DB Jerraud Powers (six tackles), DB Tim Jennings (six tackles), LB Freddy Keiaho (five tackles, sack, fumble recovery) and DL Dwight Freeney (two tackles, sack) all played well in a Week 4 win over Seattle.
Analysis: Freeney shook off a quad injury to play on Sunday and is the only guy in this group worth using in IDP leagues for Week 5 at Tennessee.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney was not named among the inactives for Week 4 vs. Seattle.
Analysis: Freeney didn't practice all week, but the rest apparently did him some good and he will play against Seattle. Even though he's unlikely to be 100 percent, he's still worth using in most Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (quadriceps) did not partipate in practice Friday. He is still listed as questionable for Week 4 against Seattle.
Analysis: It has been reported that he will miss 2-to-3 weeks and he has not practiced this week. All signs seem to indicate that he will not play against the Seahawks and Fantasy owners should consider him a risky play until he can prove healthy. Monitor his status leading up to Week 5 at Tennessee.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (quadriceps) is expected to miss Sunday's game. It has been reported that he will miss 2-to-3 weeks and he has not practiced this week.
Analysis: We expect him to be out for the three-week period suggested by the initial report. Stash him in all IDP formats for the time being, as he's solid DL option when healthy. The Colts are off in Week 6, so Freeney is likely to be held out until after the bye, as the team surely doesn't want to risk further injury to their stud DE.
News: The Colts' injury report from Thursday: Did not practice -- LB Gary Brackett (knee), DE Keyunta Dawson (foot), DE Dwight Freeney (quadriceps), WR Anthony Gonzalez (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring), CB Tim Jennings (not injury related/rested), S Bob Sanders (knee), RB Chad Simpson (abdomen), OT Tony Ugoh (not injury related/rested) and K Adam Vinatieri (not injury related/rested).
Analysis: Clearly, the Colts are dealing with several injuries to their defense. Sanders, Freeney and Brackett are the biggest impact players and all are considered questionable for Week 4 against Seattle. Even if declared fit to play, they should be considered risky starts in IDP leagues due to the fact that any kind of setback could have them out of the game immediately. Consider the Colts DST, with or without those defenders, a sleeper against the Seahawks due to the success they've had this season through their injuries, but they'd stand to be a very solid defensive unit in Fantasy if they could get healthy.
News: Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney has a strained right quadriceps but has not ruled himself out of Sunday's game against Seattle. Freeney, a four-time Pro Bowler and former league sacks champ, said Wednesday he wakes up each morning hoping to return to practice. He was injured on the last play of the third quarter of Sunday's game at Arizona. The Indianapolis Star reports that Freeney will miss two to three weeks with a strained quadriceps. Freeney declined to put a timetable on how long it would take to return. He says he is walking fine but it will take more than that to practice - or play at game speed.
Analysis: We don't expect Freeney to play in Week 4, and we expect him to be out for the three-week period suggested by the initial report. Stash him in all IDP formats for the time being, as he's solid DL option when healthy.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Colts DE Dwight Freeney will miss two to three weeks with a strained quadriceps. Freeney injured his right quad in the third quarter of Sunday night's win at Arizona.
Analysis: The Colts are off in Week 6, so Freeney is likely to be held out until after the bye, as the team surely doesn't want to risk further injury to their stud DE. Stash him in all IDP formats for the time being, as he's solid DL option when healthy.
News: The Colts are hoping DE Dwight Freeney won't be a spectator this Sunday against Seattle after hurting his right quadriceps in Indy's 31-10 victory over the Cardinals. Team officials were trying to get answers Monday about the severity of the injury and how much time, if any, the Colts' top pass-rusher might miss. Coach Jim Caldwell declined to provide specifics until he had the test results in hand. "I know Dwight expressed that he had an injury in a particular area to some of you last night, but we're going to reserve comments until the results of the MRI come back," Caldwell said. After the game, Freeney said he "felt something pop" in his leg. Caldwell confirmed that the Colts' career sacks leader had an MRI on Monday.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney during the week and hope he's able to play in Week 4 against Seattle. When healthy, he is a solid DL in IDP leagues. The Colts are already dealing with injuries to DB Bob Sanders (knee), LB Gary Brackett (sprained left knee) and cornerback Kelvin Hayden (hamstring), who missed the Cardinals game. Brackett and Hayden might return against Seattle. Consider the Colts DST, with or without those defenders, a sleeper against the Seahawks.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney had two sacks and a forced fumble Sunday at Arizona, but he also left the game in the third quarter with a right leg injury and did not return. Freeney came into the game dealing with a back injury. Freeney says he will have an MRI after injuring his right quadriceps. He said the injury occurred on a play in which he was held by a blocker. Freeney, the franchise's career leader in sacks, said he "felt something pop" on the play. Freeney's fierce pass rush was a big factor for the Colts' defense in Indianapolis' 31-10 victory.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Freeney heading into Week 4 against Seattle. When healthy, Freeney is a solid DL in IDP leagues and would be considered a great start against the Seahawks if nothing is wrong with his quadriceps.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (back) was not listed among the inactives for Week 3 at Arizona.
Analysis: Freeney is a must-start when healthy, so make sure you get him active in all IDP leagues.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (back) was able to practice in full on Friday as the team prepares for Week 3 at Arizona. Freeney has been out of practice Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: Freeney already has two sacks in two games and the last thing he needs is an injury to slow him down. It doesn't seem like a big deal, yet, but we will continue to follow his status leading up to Week 3. If healthy, Freeney is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney finished Monday night's win over the Dolphins in Miami with 4 tackles and a sack of QB Chad Pennington.
Analysis: Freeney now has 2 sacks in as many games and 6 total tackles on the season. Continue to use him in most IDP formats heading into Week 3 at Arizona. He should be able to get to a less-than-mobile Kurt Warner nicely.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney tallied two tackles, one sack, two quarterback hurries and a pass defended as he caused havoc all night in a Week 1 win over the Jaguars.
Analysis: Freeney looked healthy and active Sunday, especially when he turned on the spin move that has made him so effective over the years. Continue to use him in most IDP formats heading into Week 2 at Miami.
News: DE Dwight Freeney, DE Robert Mathis and DT Keyunta Dawson did not practice Wednesday for a reason that was not injury related.
Analysis: Freeney was a question mark last week and should also be one this week as the Colts will likely sit most of their starters for at least the majority of the Colts' Week 17 matchup against the Titans. All of these players are at risk of not playing this week.
News: DL Dwight Freeney has been listed as questionable for Week 16 at Jacksonville with a foot injury. Freeney came up with a sack and a half last week against the Lions and has 9.5 sacks on the year.
Analysis: Freeney is a machine when it comes to sacking the quarterback. Hopefully this foot injury won't slow him down and he'll be able to get at David Garrard and the Jags. Continue starting him in leagues that have big rewards for sacks.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney made three tackles and picked up 1.5 sacks against the Bengals in Week 14. He's now got 9.5 sacks on the year.
Analysis: Freeney remains one of the better sack men in the league. Like all defensive linemen, he doesn't get many tackles, but he should still start in leagues that heavily reward sacks.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney forced a fumble and recorded his eighth sack of the season Week 13 at Cleveland. He finished with two solo tackles.
Analysis: Freeney remains one of the better sack men in the league. Like all defensive linemen, he doesn't get many tackles, but he should still start in leagues that heavily reward sacks.
News: Several Colts defenders performed well Sunday night at San Diego. Freddie Keiaho had 10 tackles, Gary Brackett had eight tackles, Melvin Bullitt had eight tackles, Clint Session had seven tackles, Robert Mathis had three tackles and 1.5 sacks, Antoine Bethea had three tackles, Raheem Brock had a fumble recovery and Dwight Freeney had one tackle.
Analysis: Use your usual regulars in Week 13 at Cleveland. It's a good matchup for the Colts since Cleveland has struggled offensively the past two weeks against Buffalo and Houston.
News: Six defensive starters missed Wednesday's practice for the Colts. Among those not participating were DB Bob Sanders (knee), last season's defensive player of the year, DL Robert Mathis (toe) LB Gary Brackett (quadriceps), DL Dwight Freeney (not injury related) and DB Tim Jennings (not injury related). Also, DB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring) might be ready to go for the first time since Oct. 5.
Analysis: Coach Tony Dungy was uncertain about Sanders' status for Sunday's game at San Diego. But he didn't sound nearly as concerned about the other players who were out Wednesday. Still, the Colts sound like they might have a bumpy road ahead against the Chargers and will likely give up plenty of rushing yards without Sanders. Treat them as a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Indianapolis DL Dwight Freeney picked up two sacks of Houston QB Sage Rosenfels in Week 11's win over the Texans. Freeney also recorded two tackles.
Analysis: Freeney now has seven sacks on the season and four in his last two games. He is once again looking like a dominant pass rusher, but is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy DL at this time. The Colts play at San Diego in Week 12.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had a pair of sacks, three tackles and one forced fumble during a Week 10 win against the Steelers. It was his first sacks in five games and he now has five for the season. He also has three forced fumbles.
Analysis: Freeney had all of nine sacks in his previous two seasons and already have five through his first nine games of 2008. He is once again looking like a dominant pass rusher, but is still more of a No. 2 Fantasy DL at this time.
News: Several Colts made plays Sunday against New England. DB Antoine Bethea led the team with 10 solo tackles. LB Gary Brackett led the team with 11 total tackles. DL Robert Mathis had two tackles. DL Dwight Freeney had one tackle. DB Melvin Bullitt had one tackle. And DB Tim Jennings had four tackles and recovered a fumble.
Analysis: The Colts have solid individual defensive players, including Brackett, Bethea and Freeney, although Freeney needs to record more sacks. Continue to use your regular players in Week 10 at the Steelers.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney played Sunday against the Ravens after being limited during the week with a bad hamstring, but he did not record a tackle.
Analysis: Look for Freeney to bounce back in Week 7 at Green Bay and consider him a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney is starting Sunday against Baltimore. He had been dealing with a bad hamstring.
Analysis: Keep Freeney in your lineup for IDP leagues in Week 6. He should be good against the Ravens.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Week 6 vs. Baltimore. Freeney, who injured his hamstring Week 5 against the Texans, practiced in full Friday after sitting out the previous two days.
Analysis: Head coach Tony Dungy said earlier in the week he expected Freeney to play Week 6 and the fact he practiced in full Friday is a good sign. Fantasy owners should prepare to start Freeney Week 6 unless you hear otherwise.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney, who injured his hamstring Week 5 against the Texans, did not practice Wednesday, but head coach Tony Dungy expects him to play Week 6 against the Ravens.
Analysis: Freeney, a three-time Pro Bowler and former league sacks champ, has constantly fought nagging injuries since his rookie season and missed the second half of last season after undergoing foot surgery. This time, he's dealing with a strained hamstring that isn't likely to keep him out too long. Freeney has three sacks in five games and appears to have returned to his All-Pro ways. He remains no worse than a No. 2 Fantasy DL.
News: Colts coach Tony Dungy does not appear overly concerned with the injury to three-time Pro Bowler Dwight Freeney. "He strained something in his leg on the first fumble, but he went back in for about five or six plays," Dungy said of the defensive end, who was hurt during Indianapolis' win over Houston on Sunday.
Analysis: Freeny is coming off an injury-plagued season and the last thing we want to see in 2008 is that he is battling more injury. It appears as though he is fine, so consider starting him Week 6 against the Ravens. If anything changes, we will let you know. Freeney has three sacks in five games and appears to have returned to his All-Pro ways.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had four tackles and a sack Sunday at Houston. LB Gary Brackett had five tackles and recovered a fumble for a touchdown. DB Marlin Jackson had 11 tackles. DB Melvin Bullitt had 10 tackles and an interception. DL Robert Mathis had two tackles and a sack. LB Freddie Keiaho had eight tackles. DB Antoine Bethea had four tackles. DB Kelvin Hayden had four tackles. And LB Clint Session had five tackles.
Analysis: The Colts have a favorable matchup in Week 6 against the Ravens so the defensive players could be in line for a good outing against rookie QB Joe Flacco.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had three tackles a sack and a forced fumble Sunday at Minnesota.
Analysis: This is the type of performance we expect from Freeney. Hope for more of the same in Week 3 against Jacksonville and consider Freeney a No. 3 DL in IDP leagues.
News: Colts defensive ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis, each coming off injury-plagued 2007 seasons, each recorded a sack Week 1 against the Bears. Freeney finished with two solo tackles. Mathis finished with six tackles -- two solo -- and one forced fumble.
Analysis: Freeney and Mathis are both excellent pass rushers and virtually indistinguishable in Fantasy. Mathis has done more recently, so consider him the better option of the two, but both deserve to start in Fantasy IDP leagues that heavily reward sacks.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney was able to get back into a preseason game on Sunday night against the Bills after missing the first three games of the preseason. Freeney recorded one tackle.
Analysis: Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, but not tackles.
News:Colts DE Dwight Freeney practiced for the first time Tuesday, his latest step in a recovery from surgery on his left foot that forced him to miss the final eight games of the 2007 season, including the playoffs. He said he still experiences pain occasionally in the foot but added he is getting close to 100 percent, reports the Indianapolis Star. Yet it's been apparent during the preseason that the Colts are prepared to ease Freeney back into the mix. Freeney said he expects to return for the start of the season.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney and hope he is 100 percent. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, but not tackles.
News: Three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney was in pads for the first time Tuesday. Freeney hadn't practiced since undergoing season-ending foot surgery in November. "I should definitely be ready in three weeks," Freeney said. "I think I'm close (to 100 percent). I'm definitely good enough to compete and play."
Analysis: There was never any doubt that Freeney would be ready for the start of the regular season. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, but not tackles.
News: DE Dwight Freeney is ready to start hitting, and the Colts are finally ready to get him back on the field. Indianapolis coach Tony Dungy said Monday that Freeney should be cleared for practice this week, possibly as soon as Wednesday.
Analysis: There was never any doubt that Freeney would be ready for the start of the regular season. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, but not tackles.
News: Six Indianapolis Colts starters will miss Saturday's preseason game against Atlanta because of injuries. The team released its injury report after completing its final training camp session at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology on Friday. Peyton Manning (knee), Dwight Freeney (foot), Bob Sanders (shoulder), Ryan Lilja (knee) and Tyjuan Hagler (torn pectoral muscle) still have not practiced and remain on the physically unable to perform list. They will sit out a third straight preseason game, although coach Tony Dungy is hopeful Freeney and Sanders will return to practice next week.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney's progress during the rest of training camp and hope he can return at 100 percent when the season starts. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, which is his best asset in Fantasy play.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports Colsts DE Dwight Freeney still isn't fully recovered from surgery on his left foot that forced him to miss the final seven games of the regular season and the playoff loss to San Diego. Freeney will open camp on the Physically Unable to Perform list. He expects to miss the first three weeks of the preseason, but perhaps play in the fourth or fifth preseason game.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney's progress during training camp and hope he can return at 100 percent. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, which is his best asset in Fantasy play.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney expects to be "ready to go" for the start of training camp, reports the Indianapolis Star. Freeney missed the final seven games of the 2007 regular season and the playoff loss to San Diego after undergoing Lisfranc (midfoot) surgery on his left foot. He spent the offseason rehabilitating in Indianapolis and is eager to prove that he is recovered. "I'll be back doing what I do," Freeney said. "I anticipate not missing a beat. Guys will see me out there flying around like I always do." But Freeney expects to open camp on the physically unable to perform list. "No reason to rush me back," he said. "When it matters, I'll be ready to go, without a doubt."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney's progress during training camp and hope he can return at 100 percent. When healthy, Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. He is a good source of sacks, which is his best asset in Fantasy play.
News: Colts coach Tony Dungy told ESPN that he expects DE Dwight Freeney (foot) to return in Week 1. "We've got, fortunately, one of the best foot doctors in the country, Dr. Dave Porter, who's working on this," Dungy said. "He tells us Dwight should make a complete recovery. But it's always kind of scary with a guy like that whose speed is his big asset. He needs to come back full strength, but everything right now indicates that he's going to do that." Freeney probably won't be ready at the start of training camp but the team's been told he should be good to go for the regular season opener against Chicago Sept. 7.
Analysis: Consider Freeney a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues in 2008. He is a good source of sacks when healthy, but he doesn't generate enough tackles or turnovers to be a dominant DL option.
News: Two of the Colts' defensive cornerstones remained spectators as the mandatory three-day minicamp concluded Sunday afternoon, reports the Indianapolis Star. DL Dwight Freeney and DB Bob Sanders each insisted they are progressing well following surgery and will be ready for the start of the regular season. Freeney had surgery in November to repair an injury to his left foot. Sanders, meanwhile, had shoulder surgery following the playoff loss to San Diego. The NFL's reigning Defensive Player of the Year admitted he's not yet 100 percent, "but I'm doing good, man. I'm working out, running, doing the lifting thing. Right now it's just building my strength back up." Will he be ready for the regular season? "Yeah, definitely," Sanders said.
Analysis: Look for both to be fine for the start of the season. Consider Freeney a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues and Sanders a No. 2 DB. The Colts DST also is a No. 2 unit this year.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney is expected back in time for the start of the 2008 regular season, reports the Sports Xchange. Freeney sat out the second half of 2007 after suffering a Lis Franc injury against San Diego in early November. The Colts are expected to take their time in bringing Freeney back into a regular practice regimen, meaning he will be rehabbing and most likely watching from the sidelines during summer school practices and the early portion of training camp workouts.
Analysis: Freeney finished the year with 21 tackles (18 solo), 3.5 sacks, one safety and four forced fumbles, and now has only nine sacks the past two years. He will need to prove a lot to Fantasy owners, who have counted on him as a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues. For now, consider Freeney a No. 2 option and see how he does in the offseason with his recovery.
News: Colts President Bill Polian said Thursday he does not expect former sacks champion Dwight Freeney to be ready to start training camp in July. Polian believes there is no reason to rush Freeney's return after the three-time Pro Bowler had surgery on his left foot in November. "With Freeney, that (training camp) would be pushing it," Polian said. "It's my thought, with Dwight, he'll be ready opening day."
Analysis: Freeney had his season cut short after only nine games due to a foot injury. He finished the year with 21 tackles (18 solo), 3.5 sacks, one safety and four forced fumbles, and now has only nine sacks the past two years. He will need to prove a lot to Fantasy owners, who have counted on him as a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues. For now, consider Freeney a No. 2 option and see how he does in the offseason with his recovery.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had his season cut short after only nine games due to a foot injury. He finished the year with 21 tackles (18 solo), 3.5 sacks, one safety and four forced fumbles. Freeney is expected to make a full recovery for 2008.
Analysis: Freeney now has only nine sacks the past two years. He will need to prove a lot to Fantasy owners, who have counted on him as a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues. For now, consider Freeney a No. 2 option and see how he does in the offseason with his recovery.
News: Colts star DE Dwight Freeney will miss the rest of the season after being place on injured reserve Wednesday with a foot injury. Freeney, the three-time Pro Bowler, is the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL. He injured his left foot in Sunday's loss to San Diego and was diagnosed with a Lis Franc injury that may require surgery. Josh Thomas and newly-acquired Simeon Rice will take over for Freeney at right defensive end.
Analysis: Freeney's owners in IDP leagues can cut him in all seasonal leagues. The Lis Franc injury is a very tricky problem, one that has and can slow down the fastest of athletes permanently. Expect Robert Mathis to be the sack leader for the Colts with Freeney on the shelf.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Colts DE Dwight Freeney is expected to miss the rest of the season with a left foot injury. Freeney hurt his foot late in Week 10 at San Diego and will likely have season-ending surgery. The club added DE Simeon Rice earlier in the week to fill in for Freeney.
Analysis: Freeney's owners in IDP leagues should plan on being without him for the rest of the league. But until he goes on Injured Reserve, he should remain benched. Once he goes on IR, he can be cut in all leagues. Expect Robert Mathis to be the sack leader for the Colts with Freeney on the shelf.
News: Colts team president Bill Polian said on his weekly radio show Monday night that DE Dwight Freeney could miss four or more games because of a left foot injury that caused him to be carted into the locker room during Sunday night's 23-21 loss at San Diego. The Colts have not yet released details of the injury, but Polian said Freeney will miss "some significant amount of time".
Analysis: It appears that Freeney will clearly not be able to help his Fantasy owners with their playoff push down the stretch in IDP leagues, so go out and grab a DE with sack capabilities now, if you can.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had to leave Week 10's game at San Diego, riding a cart to the locker room in the fourth quarter. He couldn't stand on his left foot and was shown wincing on the sidelines. He had one solo tackle before leaving.
Analysis: No word yet as to the severity of the injury. Obviously, it has an effect on Fantasy IDP leagues even though Freeney has only 3 1/2 sacks this season. Wait for more information later in the week before deciding whether or not to start him Week 11 against the Chiefs.
News: Three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney returned to practice Thursday and pronounced himself ready to play against the Patriots Week 9. "I feel good, it's just aches and pains," he said after sitting out Wednesday. "You don't want to go too hard and not be able to go Sunday."
Analysis: Freeney enters the matchup against the Patriots with 18 tackles, 3 1/2 sacks and four forced fumbles this season. He has been playing well as of late and can be used as a No. 2 Fantasy DL in Week 9.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had three tackles Sunday against Carolina.
Analysis: Freeney is a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues and should be used in Week 9 against the Patriots.
News: Indianapolis practiced without eight-time Pro Bowl receiver Marvin Harrison and three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney on Wednesday although both are expected to play Sunday at Carolina.
Analysis: Freeney, the current AFC Defensive Player of the Week, was held out because of a team decision, according to the practice report. Freeney is coming off a two-sack, two-forced fumble performance against the Jaguars. His 3 1/2 sacks on the season have come in the last three weeks and that is a great sign he might be finally turning a corner. Start him Week 8 against the Panthers.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had two sacks on four tackles Week 7 at Jacksonville. He also forced two fumbles.
Analysis: Freeney more than doubled his season sack count with the performance, upping it to 3.5. Still, the total should reach double digits before season's end, making Freeney one of the better defensive linemen in IDP leagues. Start him accordingly Week 8 at Carolina.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney totaled two tackles (one solo) and came up with 1/2 sack during a Week 5 win over the Bucs. Freeney now has just 10 tackles and 1 1/2 sacks through five games.
Analysis: After taking the league by storm from 2002-05, Freeney has been very disappointing since the start of the 2006 season. He is finding it harder to come up with sacks and that just kills his Fantasy value. He is still a viable Fantasy option based on potential, but no one would blame you for benching him until he gets going. The Colts are on a bye Week 6 and return to action Week 7 against the Jaguars.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney had three tackles and a sack Sunday against Denver.
Analysis: Freeney has gotten off to a slow start this year but he might start coming around now. Consider him a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues for Week 5 against Tampa Bay.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney has eight sacks in 10 career games vs. Texans.
Analysis: Not much of a surprise considering the Texans' poor O-line over the years. Freeney remains a low-end Fantasy starter.
News: Notable Colts defenders from Week 2 at Tennessee include: FS Bob Sanders (11 total tackles, 2.5 sacks), CB Kelvin Hayden (10 total tackles, one forced fumble), LB Gary Brackett (six total tackles, one-half sack) and DE Dwight Freeney (three solo tackles).
Analysis: Of these Colts, Sanders, Freeney and Brackett are usable in IDP Fantasy league play. Consider them when they play at Houston in Week 3.
News: In 10 games against the Titans, Colts DE Dwight Freeney has 10 sacks. He and the Colts play at Tennessee in Week 2.
Analysis: Can't ask for much more than that. Freeney remains a startable Fantasy DE for Week 2 Fantasy action.
News: Dwight Freeney had just one solo tackle in Thursday's Week 1 opener win against the Saints.
Analysis: Freeney is coming off a less than impressive season, in which he had 29 tackles and 5 1/2 sacks. He is too good of a player to have another down season, but he is certainly not off to a good start in 2007. Still view him as a high-end Fantasy IDP player heading into Week 2 at Tennessee.
News: Three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney bruised his right thigh during the Indianapolis Colts' 37-10 win over Detroit Saturday night and isn't expected to play Friday at Cincinnati. Coach Tony Dungy said Sunday that the injury is not serious and Freeney would probably play if it were a regular-season game. Freeney went to the locker room before halftime and watched the second half from the sidelines in street clothes.
Analysis: Freeney recorded one tackle and 1/2 sack before leaving Saturday's game. The Colts don't seem concerned at this time and neither should Fantasy owners. Freeney is coming off a less than impressive season, in which he had 29 tackles and 5 1/2 sacks. He is too good of a player to have another down season. Still view him as a high-end Fantasy IDP player based on potential.
News: Colts three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney went to the locker room before halftime Saturday against the Lions with what was believed to be a quadriceps injury. He watched the second half from the sideline in street clothes. Head coach Tony Dungy downplayed the injury, saying Freeney could have played if it was a regular-season game.
Analysis: Freeney recorded one tackle and 1/2 sack before leaving Saturday's game. The Colts don't seem concerned at this time and neither should Fantasy owners. Freeney is coming off a less than impressive season, in which he had 29 tackles and 5 1/2 sacks. He is too good of a player to have another down season. Still view him as a high-end Fantasy IDP player based on potential.
News: The Indianapolis Colts have signed DE Dwight Freeney to a long-term contract that will make him among the NFL's most highly paid defensive players. Freeney and the Colts agreed to a six-year, $72 million contract that includes a $30 million signing bonus, Freeney's agent, Gary Wichard, said Friday. The Colts also issued a statement saying they had reached an agreement with Freeney, but did not elaborate. The Colts had designated Freeney as their franchise player in February, which would have kept him with the Super Bowl champions for at least one more season. The team and Freeney faced a Monday deadline to sign a long-term deal before this season.
Analysis: Freeney, a first-round draft pick in 2002, missed the Pro Bowl this year for the first time since his rookie season. He was held to a career-low 5 1/2 sacks while fighting shoulder and leg injuries, the only time he has been under double digits in sacks. Freeney has 56 1/2 sacks and forced 27 fumbles during his first five seasons with the Colts. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy DL in 2007 drafts.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that the Colts and DE Dwight Freeney have begun negotiations on a long-term contract. The two sides can talk until July 15, when a deadline kicks in and Freeney must settle for his one-year tender offer (still over $9 million). If that happens, Freeney may hold out throughout the preseason. Both sides are optimistic that a deal will be made before then.
Analysis: Freeney missed the Pro Bowl this year for the first time since his rookie season. He was held to a career-low 5 1/2 sacks while fighting shoulder and leg injuries. He's annually a popular pick in IDP drafts even though he doesn't put up a lot of tackles. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy DL at best in 2007 drafts.
News: Dwight Freeney said he's optimistic he'll sign a new long-term contract with the Indianapolis Colts, despite being made the team's franchise player. He told The Associated Press that he understands the business decision by the Colts to give him the franchise tag, which blocked him from becoming a free agent this year. "They have to lock me in until we can get something done," he said. "I mean, that's just what it is. If they don't franchise me right now, what are they going to do, leave me on the market? If I'm on the market, who knows what's going to happen, it's going to be crazy."
Analysis: Freeney missed the Pro Bowl this year for the first time since his rookie season. He was held to a career-low 5 1/2 sacks while fighting shoulder and leg injuries. He's annually a popular pick in IDP drafts even though he doesn't put up a lot of tackles. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy DL at best in 2007 drafts.
News: The Indianapolis Colts made defensive end Dwight Freeney their franchise player on Monday, keeping him with the Super Bowl champions for at least one more season while they work on a long-term contract. Freeney, a first-round draft pick in 2002, missed the Pro Bowl this year for the first time since his rookie season. He was held to a career-low 5 1/2 sacks while fighting shoulder and leg injuries. "He wasn't going to go anywhere," team president Bill Polian said. "There's no timeline, but we're still talking (to his agent) with the idea of putting together a longer deal. He's a key part of our team."
Analysis: Despite Freeney's poor season, owners should continue to view him as a top-12 Fantasy DE thanks to his sack totals. While his stock may slip in IDP drafts next year, he's still a good choice with a middle-round pick.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney is the star of the defensive line, even if his numbers were not spectacular. He will give John Tait and other Bears blockers fits. He explodes off the line in passing situations, but needs to be more stout against the run. A three-time Pro Bowler (not this year), he had 5 1/2 sacks among his 45 tackles and forced four fumbles. Bears QB Rex Grossman must always be aware of him.
Analysis: Consider Freeney a No. 1 DL in IDP leagues and a good start in Fantasy playoff leagues for the Super Bowl.
News: The Colts DST had two sacks and an interception against Miami. LB Gary Brackett had 10 tackles. LB Cato June had 11 tackles, an interception and a half-sack. DL Anthony McFarland had two tackles and 1.5 sacks. DL Robert Mathis had one tackle. DL Dwight Freeney had two tackles.
Analysis: The Colts DST needs to improve in 2007 to be a useful Fantasy option. They struggled this year, especially defending the run.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 17 vs. Miami.
Analysis: Consider Freeney a must-start Fantasy option for Week 17. The Dolphins will start Cleo Lemon at QB and it could be a good day for Freeney.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney is looking forward to facing Houston QB David Carr this week. Carr has been sacked 40 times this season, 248 times in his 74-game career. The Colts have contributed to his misery, getting to him 33 times in nine games, all wins. Freeney and pass-rush bookend Robert Mathis each have sacked Carr seven times. Last week, Freeney matched a career best by getting to Bengals QB Carson Palmer for three sacks, forcing a fumble each time.
Analysis: Consider Freeney a No. 1 DL in all IDP leagues and expect a good outing against Houston.
News: Colts DB Bob Sanders (knee), DL Darrell Reid (hand), DB Marlin Jackson (shoulder), LB Gilbert Gardner (knee), DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder, TE Bryan Fletcher (quad) and DB Antoine Bethea (shoulder) are listed as questionable for Week 16 at Houston.
Analysis: Sanders, Gardner and Freeney are all solid Fantasy options when healthy. Freeney is likely to play and he is coming off by far his best performance of the season with three sacks in Week 15. Keep an eye on Sanders and Gardner the rest of the week to make sure they will play. Ignore the other injured players for now.
News: Dwight Freeney had three sacks, assisted on another tackle and three forced fumbles in Week 15 against Cincinnati.
Analysis: Freeney came in with just three sacks in the first 14 weeks, so this was an early holiday gift for Fantasy owners in IDP leagues. The Bengals will play at Denver in Week 16.
News: The Colts DST allowed 375 yards rushing against the Jaguars in a 44-17 loss. The Colts got one interception from DB Matt Giordano, who added nine tackles, and a sack from DL Robert Mathis, who had three tackles. LB Cato June had seven tackles. DL Dwight Freeney had three tackles. DB Nick Harper had four tackles.
Analysis: The Colts have another difficult matchup in Week 15 against the Bengals, and they need to fix their run defense. Use all regular IDP players as needed but you might want to explore other options at this point.
News: Notable Colts defenders from Week 13 at Tennessee include: LB Cato June (nine solo tackles, one assist), CB Nick Harper (seven total tackles), CB Marlin Jackson (five total tackles, one interception), CB Jason David (one tackle, one interception and SS Bob Sanders (six total tackles, forced fumble). DE Dwight Freeney had four solo tackles and DE Robert Mathis had six total tackles, but neither had a sack.
Analysis: Of these players, June, Sanders and Freeney are the most reliable for IDP league play. The Colts play at Jacksonville in Week 14.
News: Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is not among the inactives announced by the Indianapolis Colts for their Sunday night game against the Eagles.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Freeney in the active Fantasy lineup in all leagues which use individual defensive players.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 12 vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: Freeney will likely play on Sunday, but he has been a huge disappointment this season. Consider the fact that he is listed on the injury report before setting your Fantasy lineup for Week 12.
News: Once again without defensive stars Bob Sanders and Gary Brackett, the Colts defense gave up 21 points and 342 total yards in Week 11 at Dallas. Colts DL Dwight Freeney had a sack and DB Nick Harper had an interception.
Analysis: The Colts defense has struggled without Sanders in the lineup and also miss Brackett's presence at LB. However, consider them a one-week sleeper DST in Week 12 as they face a Eagles offense adjusting to life under QB Jeff Garcia. Freeney, Sanders and Brackett are solid Fantasy IDPers when healthy.
News: The Colts DST had four sacks against Buffalo. DL Robert Mathis had three tackles and two sacks. DB Antoine Bethea had eight tackles. LB Cato June had nine tackles. DL Anthony McFarland had five tackles and one sack. DL Dwight Freeney had one tackle and one sack.
Analysis: The Colts played without DB Bob Sanders and LB Gary Brackett. Consider the Colts a No. 2 DST for Week 11 against Dallas but use all regular IDP players. Keep an eye on Sanders and Brackett for Week 11.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 9 at New England.
Analysis: There were many Fantasy IDP owners who used an early draft pick to take Freeney and are extremely unhappy with his performance this season (nine tackles, 1/2 sack). You shouldn't cut Freeney, but you might want to go with a steadier alternative while Freeney looks to get on track.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 8 at Denver.
Analysis: Be concerned about Freeney's injury woes. Ever since he was injured in Week 2 against the Texans he had amassed three tackles and no sacks in three games. You cannot afford to keep him on the bench since you probably invested too high of a pick on him. He is still among the elite DLs in the league and is a must-start for that reason.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 7 vs. Washington.
Analysis: Be concerned about Freeney's injury woes. Ever since he was injured in Week 2 against the Texans he had amassed three tackles and no sacks in three games. You cannot afford to keep him on the bench since you probably invested too high of a pick on him. He is still among the elite DLs in the league and is a must-start for that reason.
News: DE Dwight Freeney did not practice Monday, but he is expected to start against the Redskins. He has been bothered by a sore lower back and a sore shoulder this season.
Analysis: Freeney is a fine Fantasy defensive lineman worth starting on a weekly basis thanks to his penchant for picking up sacks.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney did not practice Wednesday. Freeney is resting a sore shoulder and a lower back (buttocks) injury that has bothered him for the last several weeks.
Analysis: Be concerned about Freeney's injury woes. Ever since he was injured in Week 2 against the Texans he had amassed three tackles and no sacks in three games. IDP players will have to bench him in Week 6 seeing how the Colts are on a bye, but he should be back in your lineup for Week 7. You cannot afford to keep him on the bench since you probably invested too high of a pick on him. He is still among the elite DLs in the league and is a must-start for that reason.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Week 5 vs. Tennessee.
Analysis: Freeney did not practice on Wednesday, but returned to action on Thursday. It looks as though he will be ready to go pending any setbacks. Freeney is a No. 1 Fantasy DL and an integral part of the Colts defense. It showed in Week 2 when the Freeney left the game in the fourth quarter against the Texans. David Carr went on to throw three touchdown passes with Freeney not in the game.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney did not record a sack in a fourth consecutive game. The four-game sack-less streak is the longest of his NFL career.
Analysis: Freeney has been battling nagging injuries and it may be impacting his speed. Continue to consider him a starting Fantasy DL since he has the potential to rack up multiple sack games without notice. Expect a sack vs. Tennessee in Week 5.
News: The Colts have a handful of gametime decisions on the defensive side of the ball for Week 3 at Jacksonville. Defensive end Dwight Freeney (buttock), safety Bob Sanders (thigh) and cornerback Kelvin Hayden (groin) are gametime decisions, coach Tony Dungy said. Hayden was the only one to practice Friday. "I'm sure all those guys will try to go and try to convince me on Sunday morning," Dungy said. Defensive tackle Corey Simon (knee) and defensive end Josh Thomas (hip flexor) aren't expected to play.
Analysis: The biggest concern here is with Freeney and Sanders. Here are two starters that have a huge impact on the Colts passing defense, and if they aren't ready to play, Jags QB Byron Leftwich might be in for a nice game. Wait and see what the pregame report on the Colts DST before inserting them into your lineup for Week 3. Same goes for IDP players that own any of these Colts.
News: Colts DL Dwight Freeney (buttock) is listed as questionable for Week 3 vs. Jacksonville. He did not practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: Once Freeney left the game on Sunday, Texans QB David Carr looked more relaxed in the pocket and started going downfield more. Freeney's presence obviously played a huge role and his loss would be devastating to the Colts defense vs. Jacksonville. Keep Freeney starting in IDP leagues until he is absolutely ruled out for Week 3.
News: The Colts are waiting to see if Dwight Freeney, their defensive anchor, can play in next week's critical AFC South showdown with Jacksonville. "It's some muscle in the leg, but I don't know if it's a hip flexor or a hamstring or what it is," head coach Tony Dungy said Monday. "I really don't know if Dwight will be out any length of time."
Analysis: This is big news for Freeney owners and also players who own the Colts D. Leading up to this injury, the Colts had been dominating the Texans. On the play Freeney appeared to be injured, the Texans got their first touchdown of the game -- a pass from David Carr to TE Owen Daniels. Follow up on his status through the course of the week.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney left game vs. Houston in fourth quarter with undisclosed injury. He went to the locker room with the trainers.
Analysis: This is big news for Freeney owners and also players who own the Colts D. Leading up to this injury, the Colts had been dominating the Texans. On the play Freeney appeared to be injured, the Texans got their first touchdown of the game -- a pass from David Carr to TE Owen Daniels.
News: The Colts' defense recorded eight sacks in two games with Houston last year, including five in the first game (October 23, 2005) at Reliant Stadium. DE Dwight Freeney has eight career sacks against the Texans. DE Robert Mathis has added five career sacks and DT Raheem Brock has four career sacks against Houston. DT Montae Reagor has two career sacks and has returned a fumble for a touchdown against the Texans.
Analysis: The Colts DST should rack up some sacks against the Texans this week. They are a solid option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: LB Gary Brackett (knee) and DL Dwight Freeney (leg) were able to play in Week 1 at N.Y. Giants. Brackett had six solo tackles and an assist and Freeney assisted on one tackle. DB Nick Harper (ankle) also played and had four solo tackles, two assists, an interception and two passes defensed.
Analysis: The troika of Indianapolis defenders are solid options in all Fantasy IDP leagues for Week 2 against the Texans.
News: Dwight Freeney, who has missed some practice time during training camp due to a sore shoulder, was added to the injury report Thursday with an outer lower leg contusion. He's questionable for Week 1 at N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Freeney was still able to practice this week, so he should be fine to keep active in Fantasy IDP leagues. He has always been big on sacks, little on everything else, including tackles.
News: Dwight Freeney, who has missed some practice time during training camp due to a sore shoulder, was added to the injury report on Thursday with an outer lower leg contusion. He's questionable for Week 1 at N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option heading into 2006 for IDP leagues. The Colts DST unit takes a significant drop in value for Week 1 if Freeney sits out.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney, who has missed some practice time during training camp due to a sore shoulder, was able to return to his usual role as a starter at right end during the Colts' defensive drills and didn't look any worse for wear at the end of the day. "The shoulder feels good. It just needed a little rest from the beginning of the (last) week, but I'm ready to go," he said, dismissing fears that the soreness in the shoulder was worse than originally thought. This wouldn't have even been anything if was during the season. It just happened to be at training camp and during camp things tend to be cautionary."
Analysis: Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option heading into 2006.
News: DL Dwight Freeney (shoulder) was able to play in Sunday's preseason game against the Seahawks. He recorded a solo tackle, sack and a quarterback hurry.
Analysis: IDP owners were glad to see him roaming the field. Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option heading into 2006.
News: Colts.com announced the players who have been ruled out for Sunday's preseason game against the Seahawks and DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder) was not among the names listed.
Analysis: The Colts have been careful with their star defender, but he might be ready to make his preseason debut on Sunday. Don't expect a long stretch of action, but it will be nice for potential IDP owners to see him roaming the field. Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option when healthy.
News: The Colts were without six expected starters on defense Thursday vs. St. Louis in their preseason opener, including three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney, out with a sore shoulder.
Analysis: Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option when healthy.
News: Dwight Freeney will be one of six defensive starters sitting out Thursday night's preseason opener at St. Louis. Freeney missed his second straight morning practice Wednesday, and afterward coach Tony Dungy announced the Colts' three-time Pro Bowl defensive end would be kept out of the Rams' game for precautionary reasons. Dungy said Freeney's shoulder, which forced him to sit out Tuesday morning and skip the final team scrimmage Tuesday afternoon, was too sore. "It's a precautionary thing," Dungy said. "He's not feeling well, he's not 100 percent."
Analysis: Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option.
News: Dwight Freeney gave the Indianapolis Colts a brief scare Tuesday. The three-time Pro Bowl defensive end watched the team's morning practice after complaining of a sore shoulder, then was cleared to practice in the afternoon for a light workout in which the Colts did not wear pads. "The MRI came back fine," coach Tony Dungy said. "He worked and did well, and slowly, but surely, we're starting to get some of them (injured players) back."
Analysis: Dungy downplayed the severity of the injury, calling it a strain that occurred over time rather than something that could not be pinpointed to a single play or hit. Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option.
News: Three-time Pro Bowl selection Dwight Freeney joined the Indianapolis Colts' rapidly expanding injury list Tuesday, missing the morning practice after complaining of a sore shoulder.
Analysis: Colts coach Tony Dungy said Freeney, the 2004 NFL sacks leader, was held out for precautionary reasons and was expected to have an MRI. Dungy downplayed the severity of the injury, calling it a strain that occurred over time rather than something that could be pinpointed to a single play or hit.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney finished 2005 with 10.5 sacks, 29 tackles, six forced fumbles and three pass deflections. He actually ranked as a top-60 Fantasy D-lineman and not one of the best.
Analysis: Freeney has always been big on sacks, little on everything else (including tackles). He is a good No. 2 Fantasy DL option.
News: Dwight Freeney recorded 11 sacks, 34 tackles (29 solo) and three passes defensed this season in Indianapolis.
Analysis: Freeney has now record double-digit sacks in each of his first four pro seasons and will be worth a middle-round selection in 2006 IDP drafts.
News: Dwight Freeney (foot) did not start in Week 16 at Seattle and he was very limited. He had no defensive statistics.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Freeney's status during the week before deciding on him for your IDP league in Week 17 against Arizona.
News: DE Dwight Freeney has battled a sprained arch for the last month of the season. But while the injury can be painful, he has played through the injury and expects to do the same this week. Freeney, who was held out of Wednesday's workout, hopes to be in the starting lineup for the Seattle game.
Analysis: Freeney remains a nice option in all IDP leagues for Week 16 at Seattle, unless of course the Colts decide to rest him.
News: According to the Indianapolis Star, Dwight Freeney (foot) will reportedly not play this week.
Analysis: Freeney would be able to play if the Colts had anything left to play for, but now that they don't expect Freeney to miss this week and play lightly in Week 17. Look for better options down the stretch.
News: Dwight Freeney recorded five solo tackles, one sack and one forced fumble in Sunday's 26-17 loss to the San Diego Chargers.
Analysis: Freeney remains a nice option in all IDP leagues for Week 16 at Seattle, unless of course the Colts decide to rest him.
News: Dwight Freeney didn't record a single stat in Sunday's 26-18 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Analysis: Despite the poor performance, Freeney remains a recommened option in IDP leagues for Week 15 vs. San Diego.
News: Dwight Freeney had two tackles and no sacks in Monday night's win over the Steelers. Freeney has seven sacks through Indy's first 11 games.
Analysis: Despite his numbers being down, Freeney is a must start in IDP leagues.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney (foot) is listed as probable for Week 10 vs. the Houston Texans.
Analysis: Freeney is a must-start in all IDP leagues when healthy.
News: Colts DE Dwight Freeney was given Wednesday off to rest a sore foot but he should be in the starting lineup at New England. Freeney has been bothered by a sprained arch for the past two weeks.
Analysis: Freeney should start in IDP leagues.
News: Dwight Freeney recorded three tackles, one assisted tackle and one sack in Sunday's 38-20 win over the Houston Texans.
Analysis: The Colts have a bye in Week 8, so make sure to reserve Freeney in IDP leagues.
News: Top draft pick Alex Smith will make his first NFL start in Week 5, but he doesn't get an easy assignment in his debut against the unbeaten Colts. Starting left tackle Jonas Jennings is unlikely to play with a torn labrum in his shoulder -- which means DE Dwight Freeney will probably go against backup Anthony Clement, who was embarrassed by Arizona's Bertrand Barry last Sunday. "There's always game-plan things that you take into consideration, and that will be one of them," Nolan acknowledged. "I believe everyone who plays Indianapolis addresses the Freeney issue, and that will be attended to. I believe it's the right time. I don't get too much into basing the right time on the opponent."
Analysis: The Colts might be the best Fantasy DST play in Week 5. Get them active in all leagues. Freeney will put heat on a backup OT and a rookie QB, leading to sacks, fumbles, INTs and likely TDs.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder) could suit up for the Colts' final two preseason games. He added, "I'll definitely be ready for the first game."
Analysis: Freeney will add quite a bit to the Colts' defense, and is considered one of the best DEs in the NFL.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports Colts DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder) may be able to return to practice this week.
Analysis: Freeney should resume practicing and be ready for the season at full strength.
News: Colts.com reports DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder) will miss the team's second preseason game against the Bills. He also missed the first game vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: Freeney should be OK for the regular season.
News: The Colts kept DE Dwight Freeney off the field for their first day of training camp as he continues to nurse a shoulder injury. He was placed on the active/PUP list.
Analysis: He should be ready for the start of the regular season, so his status in IDP leagues shouldn't be altered too much.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports Dwight Freeney (shoulder) might miss all of training camp as a precaution. "I would say they may hold me out at camp, just to be on the safe side," Freeney said. "I don't think I need it. You know me. I'm ready to go, no matter what. I played in December with this hurt shoulder."
Analysis: Freeney had surgery to repair a torn labrum in April and should be ready for the start of the regular season, so his status in IDP leagues shouldn't be altered too much.
News: The Colts official website reports Dwight Freeney (shoulder) might not be ready for the start of training camp. However, head coach Tony Dungy said Freeney should be ready even if he misses the first few sessions.
Analysis: Freeney underwent an offseason procedure to repair a torn labrum. He should remain a solid option in IDP leagues, barring setbacks.
News: According to reports, Dwight Freeney recently underwent shoulder surgery. "He had shoulder surgery a couple of weeks ago -- just a cleanup," head coach Tony Dungy said. "We kind of knew that it was coming."
Analysis: Freeney might not be ready to practice when the Colts open training camp in late July.
News: According to the Indianapolis Star, with two more sacks in Week 15 against Baltimore, Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney now has 15 sacks for the year, tops in the NFL. His coach is certainly impressed. "Eight sacks in three weeks...and Baltimore's Jonathan Ogden is probably the best player he's going to go against," coach Tony Dungy said.
Analysis: Freeney remains a must-start in all leagues when the Colts face the Chargers in Week 16.
News: According to the Indianapolis Star, defensive end Dwight Freeney (ankle) was able to practice on Thursday.
Analysis: It is safe to keep Freeney active for Week 4 against Jacksonville.
News: The Colts listed DE Dwight Freeney (ankle) as probable for Week 4 against Jacksonville.
Analysis: Freeney missed practice on Wednesday but should be able to go against Jacksonville. He should be active in all leagues that use individual defensive positions.
News: Indianapolis defensive end Dwight Freeney registered one of the defense's three sacks of Steve McNair in Sunday's 31-17 victory over the Titans. He now has 26 sacks in 33 games in his NFL career.
Analysis: Freeney has played against the Titans five times and has sacked McNair at least once every game. He is a solid starter in leagues that use individual defensive players. The Colts play the Packers in Week 3.
News: Dwight Freeney (elbow) was able to play in Saturday's preseason game against N.Y. Jets. He recorded two sacks in the contest.
Analysis: It appears Freeney is ready for the start of the regular season. He is a solid selection in leagues which use individual defenders.
News: According to the Indianapolis Star, defensive end Dwight Freeney suffered an elbow injury on Wednesday that forced him to miss practice.
Analysis: Coach Tony Dungy did not know the extent of the injury to the Pro Bowler. Freeney should be considered in all leagues that use individual defensive players.
News: The team's official website reports Dwight Freeney suffered an elbow injury and was forced to miss the last half of practice.
Analysis: Head coach Tony Dungy said he believed the injury was not serious. Freeney will again be a solid selection in individual defender leagues. He is considered day to day.
News: Dwight Freeney (ankle) was able to play in Week 4 at New Orleans. He had a 19-yard fumble return in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Freeney is a decent Fantasy starter in individual defensive leagues.
News: Dwight Freeney (ankle) practiced on Saturday, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: He remains a gametime decision for Week 4, but practicing Saturday increases his chances of playing.
News: Dwight Freeney (ankle) will be a gametime decision on Sunday at New Orleans, according to the Colts' official website.
Analysis: Freeney is listed as doubtful and should be reserved in leagues that use individual defenders.
News: Dwight Freeney (ankle) was unable to practice on Wednesday. He is considered doubtful for Week 4 at New Orleans.
Analysis: The team is hopeful he will be healthy enough to play Week 5 at Tampa Bay. Keep him reserved in individual defender leagues.
News: The Indianapolis Star says that Colts head coach Tony Dungy hopes to play Freeney (ankle) Week 4 at New Orleans. "Dwight, I think, has a chance to play," said Dungy.
Analysis: Freeney should be starting in leagues that use individual defender leagues when healthy.
News: Tony Dungy told the Indianapolis Star Dwight Freeney is "very doubtful" for Week 3 because of an injured left ankle. "It doesn't look like it's anything that's going to heal right away," Dungy said. "As far as how long it's going to be, we really don't know. (But) probably more than a week."
Analysis: Chad Bratzke will move to right end with Freeney out, and Robert Mathis should also see more playing time.
News: Dwight Freeney (shin) registered two tackles and a sack on Sunday.
Analysis: Freeney is a top individual defender, and can vault himself into elite status if he makes more tackles per game in the weeks ahead.
News: Dwight Freeney (shin) did not practice on Wednesday. "He should be fine by the end of the week," Tony Dungy told the Indianapolis Star.
Analysis: Freeney is expected to play, but be sure to monitor his status.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports Dwight Freeney (shin) missed Monday's workout. However, coach Tony Dungy expects him to play in Week 2 against Tennessee.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Freeney active in leagues that use individual defensive players.
