News: The Patriots released tight end Visanthe Shiancoe on Tuesday.
Analysis: Shiancoe did not stat in any of his four games with the Patriots and poses minimal Fantasy value going forward. Continue to ignore him in all formats.
News: The Patriots activated tight end Visanthe Shiancoe off the injured reserve/designated to return list on Saturday, reports ESPN. Shiancoe, who was sidelined with an undisclosed injury, needed to be activated or else he would be forced to miss the remainder of the season.
Analysis: Shiancoe's return to the lineup could also be a signal that Aaron Hernandez is not ready to return from his ankle injury. In fact, ESPN reported late Saturday that Hernandez will not suit up for Sunday's game. The Patriots still have star tight end Rob Gronkowski so Shiancoe is viewed as a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: The Patriots placed tight end Visanthe Shiancoe on short-term injured reserve Wednesday with an undisclosed injury. He won't be able to return to the active roster until after Week 8.
Analysis: Though Shiancoe has been a relevant Fantasy option in the past, he doesn't stand to make a big impact for the Patriots even when healthy. After all, he'll be behind both Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez on the depth chart. You can ignore Shiancoe in Fantasy.
News: The Patriots have agreed to a one-year contract with former Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, a league source confirmed. Shiancoe caught a career-high 56 passes and 11 touchdowns in 2009 with Brett Favre at quarterback, but his numbers have fallen each season since.
Analysis: Shiancoe's arrival allows Daniel Fells to fit more as Rob Gronkowski's backup at the "Y" TE position the team uses. Hernandez and Shiancoe are "F" or athletic TEs. We wouldn't be surprised if Shiancoe didn't make the final roster, but we would be surprised if he was a quality option on your Fantasy roster. Buried on the depth chart in New England, Shiancoe shouldn't be owned in any leagues.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason LaCanfora reports that three teams remain interested in tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. According to his agent Drew Rosenhaus, Shiancoe has received offers short of the $2.5 million range he's looking for. "We're willing to take it right up to the start of camp," Rosenhaus said.
Analysis: Shiancoe's best year came with Brett Favre in Minnesota, and since then he's been a big disappointment. We'd be shocked to see Shiancoe become a Fantasy relevant tight end this season. Keep him off of rosters.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe came up empty on Saturday of Week 16 during a win at Washington. Neither quarterback Christian Ponder nor Joe Webb could find Shiancoe in the offense. He was targeted just once in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe is never going to give your Fantasy team many yards. He just hasn't been used frequently enough in the passing game this season. Shiancoe has scored a couple touchdowns, but could just as easily go without a catch as he did Week 15 against the Saints and this week against the Redskins. Shiancoe hasn't topped 60 receiving yards all season and has only recorded double digits in Fantasy production once all year. Heading into Week 17 against Chicago, Shiancoe does have a solid matchup. The one thing the Bears defense does poorly is limit the Fantasy production of opposing tight ends. That said, Shiancoe is just a No. 2 Fantasy option heading into Week 17.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not record a reception during the Vikings' 42-20 loss to New Orleans in Week 15. Shiancoe was targeted only once by QB Christian Ponder as he was held without a catch for the first time since Minnesota's season opener against San Diego.
Analysis: Shiancoe was one of several Vikings receivers to turn in subpar performances as Ponder connected on only 45.2 percent of his passes. He entered Sunday's game having scored a touchdown in two straight games against the Saints, but instead watched fellow TE Kyle Rudolph record two catches for 15 yards to represent the position. At this point in the year, consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 16 at Washington.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe has a pretty good recent history against his Week 15 opponents the Saints. Shiancoe is looking for his third straight game against New Orleans with a touchdown catch. Shiancoe has caught six passes for 92 yards and two touchdowns in his last two games against the Saints. New Orleans is allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends on the season, though they have not allowed a TE touchdown since Week 10.
Analysis: Shiancoe scored his first touchdown since Week 7 last week at Detroit as he caught three passes for 33 yards. Unfortunately, Shiancoe has not topped 42 yards receiving since Week 7. Shiancoe is just a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 15.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe made just three catches in Week 14, but one of them was for his third touchdown of the season. Shiancoe's 7-yard score was the Vikings' first touchdown in their 34-28 loss to the Lions, and it was also his first touchdown since Week 7 against the Packers. Shiancoe finished with a total of 33 receiving yards.
Analysis: Because he got in the end zone, Shiancoe wound up having a nice afternoon for the Fantasy owners who started him. However, his touchdowns have been few and far between, and Shiancoe does not pile up enough yardage to be started in most formats. Owners should continue to view him as a low-end TE option heading into Week 15.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was listed as active for Week 14 at the Lions. He was limited on Wednesday and Thursday with a hand injury, but he practice in full on Friday.
Analysis: Even though Shiancoe is healthy enough to play, he has not been a reliable TE option this year. Consider starting him only in the deepest of leagues.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hand) returned to a full practice Friday and was upgraded to probable for Week 14 at Detroit. He had been limited on Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: Shiancoe has had another disappointing year as he hasn't gelled with either Donovan McNabb or Christian Ponder. He has dealt with a hamstring injury recently and that has allowed rookie TE Kyle Rudolph to get a little more involved on offense. Shiancoe is not a recommended Fantasy start for Week 14.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hand) was limited in practice Thursday for a second straight day as the team prepares for Week 14 at Detroit.
Analysis: Shiancoe had a badly swollen hand earlier in the week, but X-rays showed no fracture. The team will continue to monitor his status, but at least he is practicing. Shiancoe has had another disappointing year as he hasn't gelled with either Donovan McNabb or Christian Ponder. He has dealt with a hamstring injury recently and that has allowed rookie TE Kyle Rudolph to get a little more involved on offense. Even if Shiancoe plays Week 14, he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hand) was limited in practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 14 at Detroit.
Analysis: Shiancoe had a badly swollen hand earlier in the week, but X-rays showed no fracture. The team will continue to monitor his status, but at least he is practicing. Shiancoe has had another disappointing year as he hasn't gelled with either Donovan McNabb or Christian Ponder. He has dealt with a hamstring injury recently and that has allowed rookie TE Kyle Rudolph to get a little more involved on offense. Even if Shiancoe plays Week 14, he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said Monday that TE Visanthe Shiancoe has a badly swollen hand. X-rays showed no fracture, but he will be evaluated later in the week. Minnesota is at Detroit in Week 14.
Analysis: Shiancoe has had another disappointing year as he hasn't gelled with either Donovan McNabb or Christian Ponder. He has dealt with a hamstring injury recently and that has allowed rookie TE Kyle Rudolph to get a little more involved on offense. Even if Shiancoe plays Week 14, he has minimal Fantasy appeal.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe tallied four receptions for 36 yards during the Vikings’ 35-32 loss to Denver in Week 13. Shiancoe, who was considered probable with a hamstring issue, was targeted seven times by QB Christian Ponder. He was unable to take advantage of those looks and finished with less than 50 yards for the eighth consecutive game. He averaged 9.0 yards per reception.
Analysis: Shiancoe created some space downfield, but Ponder was constantly flushed out of the pocket and did not have much time to pass throughout Sunday’s game. Shiancoe was also upstaged by fellow TE Kyle Rudolph, who hauled in a 19-yard touchdown pass during the second quarter. Shiancoe has now failed to reach the end zone in his past five games. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE at Detroit in Week 14.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe's ailing hamstring will not prevent him from playing against Denver and he is active for Week 13. Shiancoe was considered probable on the team's injury report with the lingering issue after practicing in full last week.
Analysis: With WR Michael Jenkins on injured reserve, Shiancoe will need to increase his production in the Vikings' passing game. However, the Broncos have been stingy against tight ends this year and are allowing an average of 5.1 Fantasy points per game to the position. Consider Shiancoe a low-end TE option in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 13.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe is listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 13 against Denver. Shiancoe has been bothered by a lingering hamstring issue, but is expected to play in Sunday's game as the Vikings have limited options on offense. Of his 29 receptions this season, 22 of them (75.9 percent) have gone for a first down or touchdown. He has only two total touchdowns this year and last scored on Oct. 23.
Analysis: With WR Michael Jenkins on injured reserve, Shiancoe will need to increase his production in Minnesota's passing game. The Vikings will also be without RB Adrian Peterson in Sunday's game, which could result in more targets for Shiancoe near the line of scrimmage. However, the Broncos have been stingy against tight ends this year and are allowing an average of 5.1 Fantasy points to the position. Consider Shiancoe a low-end TE option in deeper Fantasy formats for Week 13.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had just 24 yards on three catches Week 12 at Atlanta. He was targeted four times in the contest. He now has less than 50 receiving yards in seven straight games, averaging 35.1 receiving yards during that stretch.
Analysis: Clearly, Shiancoe isn't a great source of yardage, making him a touchdown-or-bust type of Fantasy option. Considering he has only two touchdowns all season, you can't like your odds too much most weeks. Treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 13 against the Broncos.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is active for Week 12 at Atlanta. He was limited in practice by a hamstring injury leading up to the game. The team listed him as questionable on Friday.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been limited off and on by a hamstring injury this season but has yet to miss a game. He also has yet to go for 60 yards and hasn't gone for even 50 since Week 4. He's a touchdown-or-bust type of Fantasy option, so treat him as a No. 2 TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has been bothered off and on by a hamstring injury for most of the season. Out of practice earlier this week, he practiced Friday and is listed as questionable for Week 12 against the Falcons. "Visanthe was able to do more (Friday) than he was in the previous two practices," said coach Leslie Frazier. "So, he has a good shot of making it (Sunday)."
Analysis: In Shiancoe's last game against the Falcons, which came back in 2008, he caught seven passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns. Atlanta enters Sunday ranked 26th in the league in pass defense and have allowed an average of 6.2 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Shiancoe has been a bit of a disappointment in Fantasy so far this season and this injury will likely hinder him a bit in Week 12. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE against the Falcons.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) was not at practice on Wednesday in preparation for the Week 12 game at Atlanta. Shiancoe strained the hamstring after making two catches for 42 yards last week against Oakland. Shiancoe has not topped 42 yards or reached the end zone in three games. He has two touchdowns on the year, and 58 yards receiving Week 4 at Kansas City has been his season high to this point.
Analysis: Shiancoe's last game against the Falcons came back in 2008. He caught seven passes for 136 yards and two touchdowns in that game. Still, if he's even healthy, we doubt he's going to come close to those figures in Week 12. The Falcons allow 6.2 Fantasy points per game to tight ends, tied for sixth-fewest in the NFL. Shiancoe is just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE if healthy enough to play in Week 12.
News: Vikings coach Leslie Frazier said at his Monday press conference that TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who came into Week 11 with a hamstring injury, didn't make it out of the game unscathed. "Visanthe Shiancoe strained his hamstring in that ball game. Mild strain so we’ll see how he does as the week goes on," Frazier said.
Analysis: It sure sounds as though Frazier is hinting at a setback with Shiancoe, who suffered a hamstring injury late in the practice week leading up to Sunday's game. It does sound as though Shiancoe might sit Week 12, so Fantasy owners need to keep tabs on his progress. His backup, Kyle Rudolph, is also hurting. Shiancoe doesn't contribute enough yardage to factor in Fantasy when he's not scoring touchdowns, and he has only two touchdowns all season. He's no more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE if active Week 12.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who hurt his hamstring in practice Thursday, didn't show any signs of the injury Week 11 against the Raiders. He finished with two catches for 42 yards, getting back over the 40-yard mark for the first time in three games. He was targeted three times in the contest.
Analysis: Shiancoe came close to scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter, catching a 37-yard pass that brought him to the 1-yard line, but unfortunately, the touchdown went to fellow TE Kyle Rudolph one play later. Shiancoe doesn't contribute enough yardage to factor in Fantasy when he's not scoring touchdowns, and he has only two touchdowns all season. He's no more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE when the Vikings visit the Falcons in Week 12.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who hurt his hamstring in practice Thursday, is active for Week 11 against the Raiders. He was listed as questionable on the injury report Friday.
Analysis: Coach Leslie Frazier thought Shiancoe would be OK for Sunday's game, and that seems to be the case. Of course, it might not make much of a difference for Fantasy owners considering Shiancoe's lack of production this year. He hasn't gone for more than 45 yards in a game since Week 4, so unless he scores a touchdown, he's not much of a factor. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who hurt his hamstring in practice Thursday, is officially questionable for Week 11 vs. Oakland, but coach Leslie Frazier said he should be fine to play Sunday. Shiancoe had only one catch Week 10 at Green Bay, but he did top 30 yards for the fourth straight game. He'll be looking for more in Week 11 against a Raiders defense that ranks 22nd against the pass, allowing 246.0 yards per game. They've also given up 16 touchdown passes.
Analysis: Although his coach is optimistic he will play, hamstring injuries can linger, so there is definitely some risk to starting Shiancoe in Week 11. Though Shiancoe's yardage is fairly consistent, it's not enough to carry him in Fantasy. He needs to get in the end zone to be a relevant contributor, and he hasn't done that since Week 7. Of the 16 passing touchdowns the Raiders have allowed, only three have gone to tight ends, so you'd be taking a shot in the dark by starting Shiancoe this week, even if he plays.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe tweaked a hamstring in practice Thursday and ended up being limited. Shiancoe had only one catch Week 10 at Green Bay, but he did top 30 yards for the fourth straight game. He'll be looking for more in Week 11 against a Raiders defense that ranks 22nd against the pass, allowing 246.0 yards per game. They've also given up 16 touchdown passes.
Analysis: The worst part of this news is that it was a late-week injury for Shiancoe. We hope it's minor, but hamstring injuries can be problematic, so it's going to be interesting to see what happens on Friday. Though Shiancoe's yardage is fairly consistent, it's not enough to carry him in Fantasy. He needs to get in the end zone to be a relevant contributor, and he hasn't done that since Week 7. Of the 16 passing touchdowns the Raiders have allowed, only three have gone to tight ends, so you'd be taking a shot in the dark by starting Shiancoe this week, even if he plays.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had only one catch Week 10 at Green Bay, but he did top 30 yards for the fourth straight game. He'll be looking for more in Week 11 against a Raiders defense that ranks 22nd against the pass, allowing 246.0 yards per game. They've also given up 16 touchdown passes.
Analysis: Though Shiancoe's yardage is fairly consistent, it's not enough to carry him in Fantasy. He needs to get in the end zone to be a relevant contributor, and he hasn't done that since Week 7. Of the 16 passing touchdowns the Raiders have allowed, only three have gone to tight ends, so you'd be taking a shot in the dark by starting Shiancoe this week. Leave him for deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was not much of a factor in Week 10 against the Packers. Shiancoe finished with just one reception in the 45-7 contest, which went for 33 yards. He was targeted four times by Christian Ponder in the defeat, although the two were only able to hook up the one time.
Analysis: Shiancoe had been playing much better since Ponder took over the reigns at QB, although he wasn't much of a factor on Monday night. However, no one on the Vikings was much of a factor against Green Bay. Still, the 31-year-old will look to get back on track when the Raiders come to town in Week 11. Oakland has really struggled to defend the pass this season, so consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into his next matchup.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe will be looking to get back in the end zone in Week 10 against the Packers. Shiancoe, who has hauled in 23 receptions for 241 yards and a pair touchdowns, has scored in three of his last five meetings against Green Bay. The Packers enter Monday night's contest ranked 31st in pass defense, allowing 300 yards per game. Green Bay has surrendered 16 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 9.5 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been fairly productive over his last few weeks, racking up 12 receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown over his last three games. He has seemed to become one of rookie QB Christian Ponder favorite targets and now looks to have another favorable matchup heading into Week 10. The Packers have surrendered a ton of yards through the air thus far and Shiancoe registered his second touchdown reception of the season the last time he faced them. Fantasy owners should consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE against Green Bay.
News: Though Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe missed two days of practice this week with a foot injury, he continued his consistent production in Week 8. He was targeted four times, making three catches for 37 yards in a 24-21 win over the Panthers.
Analysis: Though none of Shiancoe's catches were instrumental to the Vikings' victory, he was one of many targets who helped QB Christian Ponder to his first win as an NFL starting quarterback. His modest but steady production makes him a useful low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. However, owners should stash him for Week 9, as the Vikings will be on a bye.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was not listed among the inactives for Week 8 at Carolina. He had missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday with a foot injury, but had returned on Friday.
Analysis: Shiancoe has had steady but modest production in recent weeks. Given that he is healthy enough to play, he is worth a shot as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 8.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (foot) returned to practice Friday after missing two days and is listed as probable for Week 8 at Carolina.
Analysis: Shiancoe's foot injury is of concern since he missed two practice days, but it does appear he will be up Week 8 as long as he doesn't suffer a setback. Just make sure he is active Sunday when inactives roll in. Shiancoe can be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE if he plays, even though the Panthers have the 12th-best passing defense in the league in terms of per game yardage allowed.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (foot) did not return to practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 8 at Carolina. He also sat out Wednesday.
Analysis: Shiancoe didn't look hobbled in Week 7 as he scored his second touchdown of the season. However, he is now on the injury report and his status must be monitored. With six teams on a bye in Week 8, Shiancoe can be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE if he plays, even though the Panthers have the 12th-best passing defense in the league in terms of per game yardage allowed.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (foot) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 8 at Carolina.
Analysis: Shiancoe didn't look hobbled in Week 7 as he scored his second touchdown of the season. However, he is now on the injury report and his status must be monitored. With six teams on a bye in Week 8, Shiancoe can be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE if he plays, even though the Panthers have the 12th-best passing defense in the league in terms of per game yardage allowed.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was able to do something against the Packers on Sunday that he hadn't done since Week 3 -- score a touchdown. QB Christian Ponder found him for a 2-yard scoring strike on the first drive of the game and Shiancoe finished with four catches for 45 yards in the 33-27 loss. Shiancoe finished tied for a team high with eight targets and had a long reception of 22 yards.
Analysis: Ponder looked Shiancoe's way early and often in Week 7 and should continue to do so as he progresses. Owners know that rookie QBs like to lend on their TE, which should only benefit Shiancoe going forward. Keep an eye on the situation to see how the two mesh. Heading into Week 8 against the Panthers, consider getting Shiancoe active in more formats.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe will be going up against a familiar foe in Week 7 against the Packers. In eight career games against the division rival, he has caught 20 passes for 136 yards with two touchdowns. Green Bay enters Sunday ranked 31st in the league against the pass, giving up nearly 300 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of 7.7 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: Shiancoe will have QB Christian Ponder throwing his way in Week 7, which might not be a bad thing. Rookies tend to target their tight ends more as to not make a mistake downfield. Keep an eye on the rapport between the two going forward to see if there is a difference in production from Donovan McNabb to Ponder. But given how he has struggled thus far, consider Shiancoe as more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 7.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught five passes for 45 yards on Sunday night against Chicago. He was targeted seven times in the contest. The Vikings would end up losing the game, 39-10, despite Shiancoe's efforts.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been very quiet this year as he has just 159 receiving yards and one touchdown to his credit. With Donovan McNabb getting pulled in the game on Sunday and Christian Ponder, one has to wonder who'll be under center next week. Minnesota hosts Green Bay, a team that struggles to defend the pass. Still, Shiancoe hasn't done enough this year to make him anything more than a No. 2 T option.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe is averaging two catches per game so far this season. That is about what the veteran tight end averages against his next opponent, Chicago. In nine career games versus the Bears, Shiancoe has 26 catches for 253 yards. He's also scored three touchdowns in those contests. The Bears have been getting beat by tight ends all year though, allowing a league most 13 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's TEs.
Analysis: Shiancoe has 11 catches for 114 yards and one score this season for the Vikings. He hasn't been able to get on the same page as new QB Donovan McNabb though, which is obviously hampered his production. If he's going to have a breakout game it should come against the Bears as they can't stop tight ends. Still, he hasn't done enough yet this year to make him anything more than a No. 2 TE option for Week 6.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe recorded just one reception in the Week 5 win over the Cardinals. Shiancoe went for 20 yards on his only catch from QB Donovan McNabb. Shiancoe was targeted six times in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been receiving around two catches per game this season and does have a touchdown to his credit. Unfortunately, he's been unable to establish much of a rapport with McNabb. The passing game for the Vikings has been laughable at this point in the season. That said, the Vikings are playing in Chicago in Week 6. The Bears are allowing the most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends on the season. That could bode very well for Shiancoe heading into the Week 6 game. Consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for the Week 6 game because of that matchup.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe is coming off his best game of the season in Week 4 at Kansas City. Shiancoe caught a season-high six passes for 58 yards in that game. Having scored a touchdown Week 3 against Detroit, Shiancoe is playing his best football of the season heading into Week 5 against Arizona. There is good reason for that, as Shiancoe told ESPN.com that his hamstring feels as good as it has all year. "I don't feel it no more at all," Shiancoe said Wednesday. Shiancoe has a very solid history against the Cardinals. In his last two games against Arizona, including a game last season, Shiancoe has six catches for 80 yards and two touchdowns. He's scored in each of his last two games against Arizona.
Analysis: As Shiancoe looks to make it three straight games with a TD against the Cardinals, Arizona might allow that. That is because the Cardinals haven't been great against tight ends this season. Arizona is allowing the 12th-most Fantasy points per game against opposing TEs entering Week 5. New York's Jake Ballard just scored a touchdown against the Cardinals last week. Shiancoe could have a solid game against Arizona, but the Minnesota offense has been very shaky this year. That limits Shiancoe to being just a bye-week replacement option as a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: TE Visanthe Shiancoe had his best game of the season, though the Vikings lost to the Chiefs, 22-17, in Week 4. Shiancoe made a season-high six receptions for 58 yards, and he led the team in both of those categories, as well as in targets (eight).
Analysis: Shiancoe ranked just sixth on the team in receiving yards coming into Week 4, so it was encouraging for his Fantasy owners to see him increase his production. Still, owners can't count on QB Donovan McNabb making Shiancoe his top target every week. He is still no more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE going forward, even with a favorable matchup with the Cardinals in store for Week 5.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe took a step backward in Week 3 after registering just one catch in an overtime loss to Detroit last Sunday. Shiancoe was coming off his best showing of the season in Week 2 against Tampa Bay (three receptions for 28 yards), but could not duplicate the outing versus the Lions. Shiancoe earns an opportunity to rebound in Week 4 against Kansas City, which has yielded 260.3 passing yards per game.
Analysis: Shiancoe was expected to be one of the main targets for new Vikings QB Donovan McNabb, but the two have yet to get on the same page this season. The 31-year-old's lone reception last Sunday did go for a touchdown so it's possible he could evolve into a red-zone target for McNabb. The Chiefs are yielding an average of 11.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season -- fifth-most in the NFL. Consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for the Week 4 matchup.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe only managed one catch in the Week 3 overtime loss to the Lions. That catch was an 8-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter from Donovan McNabb. Shiancoe was targeted twice in the game, but did not make another catch after halftime.
Analysis: Shiancoe is finally performing for the Vikings as McNabb is finally beginning to look his way with a little more regularity. That is great news for Fantasy owners. It is also great news for Shiancoe, who has an excellent matchup upcoming in Week 4 at Kansas City. The Chiefs have been allowing hordes of Fantasy points to opposing tight ends and have already made Scott Chandler and Tony Scheffler look like top passing game options. Shiancoe should continue improving and might even be worth using as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 4 in K.C.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe is hungry for more heading into Week 3 against the Lions as he only has recorded three catches for 28 yards on the season after two games. In his last five games against the Lions, Shiancoe has 12 catches for 129 yards and two touchdowns. Of course, the last touchdown was back in 2009 and he's only registered six catches for 63 yards and no scores in his last three games against Detroit.
Analysis: Shiancoe has struggled to get involved in the passing game with Donovan McNabb as quarterback for the Vikings. In fact, he's struggled just to get open and the Vikings have been downright horrible after two games. Facing the Lions Week 3, Detroit has been excellent at limiting the Fantasy points recorded by opposing tight ends. The Lions only allowed Kansas City TEs two catches for 9 yards in Week 2 and should be able to hold Shiancoe down as well. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3, at best, at this point.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was able to get into the stat sheet Week 2 against the Bucs after failing to do so in the season opener. He notched his first three receptions on the year, including a 15-yard gain on one of his seven targets. Shiancoe ended up with 28 yards on the afternoon.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been utilized as a late-in-the-progression read over the first two games of the season, so Fantasy owners should remain a bit concerned. Rookie Kyle Rudolph is not getting more looks than him, but he doesn't seem to be as involved as much as we have seen in the past. Shiancoe should be considered a No. 2 TE option heading toward the Week 3 game against the Lions.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was held without a catch last week, and he offered an explanation during the week while the team prepares for the Bucs in Week 2. "Just a combination of everything, man," he said. "I know [QB Donovan McNabb] was getting pressured a couple of times. But we're going to get back to work [on that]." Shiancoe faces a defense that yielded 68 yards and a touchdown to Lions TEs in Week 1.
Analysis: Shiancoe has just three career grabs for 54 yards in his career against the Bucs, and that was before he had to compete with rookie TE Kyle Rudolph for touches. The drop-off was epitomized in the season opener, but that was against the reigning No. 1 defense in the NFL. Shiancoe is no longer a no-brainer low-end No. 1 option in Fantasy play, so start him at your own risk for Sunday. There are likely better options on the waiver-wire like Evan Moore or Lance Kendricks.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was held without a catch during the Vikings' 24-17 loss to San Diego in Week 1. Shiancoe, who was listed as probable heading into the game because of a hamstring issue, was targeted just once by new Minnesota QB Donovan McNabb.
Analysis: Shiancoe was one of several Vikings receivers to struggle as McNabb finished with a lowly 39 yards on 7-of-15 passing. The 6-foot-4 veteran earned the same number of targets as rookie TE Kyle Rudolph, but showed no lingering effects of a hamstring injury. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end option until he starts to build a connection with McNabb, which could take some time.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was listed as active for the team's Week 1 matchup at San Diego on Sunday. Shiancoe was considered probable after nursing a hamstring injury that slowed his production last season. He finished with just two touchdowns in 16 games last year.
Analysis: Shiancoe returns healthy for the new season and with a new quarterback throwing him the ball in Donovan McNabb. While he will compete with rookie TE Kyle Rudolph for targets, Shiancoe could be in line to reach 40 receptions for the third consecutive season if he stays healthy. However, he should be considered a marginal Fantasy option for Week 1 just to see how his hamstring holds up.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) is listed as probable for Week 1 at San Diego.
Analysis: Shiancoe is in the final year of his deal and coming off a season in which another hamstring injury slowed his production and limited him to just two touchdowns. It was a big step back for Shiancoe and the entire Vikings offense after he caught 11 touchdowns from Brett Favre in 2009. He now faces competition from rookie TE Kyle Rudolph, but is still expected to start Sunday. Fantasy owners should consider leaving Shiancoe on the bench for Week 1 to get a gauge of how his hamstring holds up in the Vikings' first test.
News: With his hamstring healing, and Minnesota preparing for Week 1 on Sunday at San Diego, it appears Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is starting to come back to life, just in time for him to start the all-important final year of his contract. Shiancoe said Wednesday that he is 100 percent ready to go against San Diego and then painted a picture of how he aggravated the hamstring in practice two weeks ago like only he can. "I wasn't ready at all yet," said Shiancoe, who was a full participant at practice Thursday. "It was still baking. I took it out the oven too soon."
Analysis: Shiancoe is in the final year of his deal and coming off a season in which another hamstring injury slowed his production and limited him to just two touchdowns. It was a big step back for Shiancoe and the entire Vikings offense after he caught 11 touchdowns from Brett Favre in 2009. He now faces competition from rookie TE Kyle Rudolph, but is still expected to start Sunday. Fantasy owners should consider leaving Shiancoe on the bench for Week 1 to get a gauge of how his hamstring holds up in the Vikings' first test.
News: Vikings offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave is pleased to have TE Visanthe Shiancoe back on the field, but he is not sure what he will have yet in Week 1 against the Chargers. "[Shiancoe is] an unknown quantity at this stage," Musgrave said. "We’re hoping he can get back in shape both mentally and physically and hit the ground running. We’re working through that process and [hoping] that he can contribute on Sunday."
Analysis: Musgrave sounds more concerned than coach Leslie Frazier, who said Wednesday he was treating Shiancoe like he was 100 percent. Shiancoe is going to start over rookie Kyle Rudolph as long as he is healthy, and it appears he will play barring a setback. New QB Donovan McNabb has always been a fan of throwing to TEs, so Shiancoe has the potential to put up decent numbers. But for Week 1 he is a risky Fantasy start because there are just better options at the TE spot. It's worth monitoring how Shiancoe gels with McNabb, but leave him on the bench in most Fantasy formats to start the season.
News: Asked about the health of Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) on Wednesday, coach Leslie Frazier said, "We're approaching it as he is a 100 percent. We didn't want him out there if he wasn't, because the things we have in the game plan at times are going to feature him. Based on Monday's practice, everything looks fine."
Analysis: Shiancoe is going to start over rookie Kyle Rudolph as long as he is healthy, and it appears he will play barring a setback. New QB Donovan McNabb has always been a fan of throwing to TEs, so Shiancoe has the potential to put up decent numbers. But for Week 1 he is a risky Fantasy start because there are just better options at the TE spot. It's worth monitoring how Shiancoe gels with McNabb, but leave him on the bench in most Fantasy formats to start the season.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe returned to practice from a hamstring injury Monday. “He was smooth today,” said coach Leslie Frazier. “He looked good and we’ve got some work to do throughout this week but [his] first day back he looked good. So we’ll see how he does on Wednesday and just keep watching his progress.”
Analysis: Fantasy owners should watch his progress just as the Vikings will, though it seems as if Shiancoe will be good to go for the season opener. He has been an interesting Fantasy commodity this season with the team drafting Kyle Rudolph on the heels of the veteran's subpar 2010 season. Shiancoe has been reduced to a one-week replacement option in most leagues unless his play speaks to otherwise.
News: The Vikings have ruled out TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) for the rest of the preseason. They're planning to have him ready to start by Week 1 at San Diego.
Analysis: Shiancoe took a major step back last season and has been dealing with a gimpy hamstring this summer. Fantasy owners can find better tight end options than Shiancoe, even with the lack of receiving talent in Minnesota. Consider him a good one-week replacement option off waivers.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe suffered a setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury and will miss the team's preseason game vs. Dallas on Saturday. "It's nothing major," coach Leslie Frazier told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. "Just enough that we don't want to chance him not being there for the first [regular season] game."
Analysis: Shiancoe is expected to begin the 2011 campaign as the Vikings' starting tight end despite the presence of promising rookie Kyle Rudolph. Shiancoe is entering his fifth season with Minnesota and should benefit from the addition of QB Donovan McNabb under center. But Fantasy owners should target Shiancoe as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE worthy of a late-round selection in deeper drafts. He shouldn't be touched in most standard formats.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not play in the Vikings' second preseason game Saturday against Seattle because of a minor hamstring injury. Shiancoe sustained the injury during the team's preseason opener last week and Minnesota is being wary not to exert him too much leading up to the regular season.
Analysis: Shiancoe is expected to begin the 2011 campaign as the Vikings' starting tight end despite the presence of promising rookie Kyle Rudolph. Shiancoe is entering his fifth season with Minnesota and should benefit from the addition of QB Donovan McNabb under center. Fantasy owners should target Shiancoe as a decent No. 2 Fantasy TE worthy of a late-round selection in drafts.
News: Vikings coach Leslie Frazier told reporters Monday that TE Visanthe Shiancoe's hamstring injury is not more serious than originally believed. The team is just being cautious keeping him sidelined and he might be able to play if it were the regular season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has a good grasp of the Vikings offense. Although, it would benefit him to develop rapport with new QB Donovan McNabb, who likes to throw the football to TEs. Shiancoe does have to worry about rookie TE Kyle Rudolph, but he is expected to open the year as the team's top TE. Go into the season with Shiancoe as a No. 2 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: As expected, Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not play in Saturday's preseason opener at Tennessee. Shiancoe has been dealing with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Shiancoe's hamstring and hope he can return soon. Go into the season with Shiancoe as a No. 2 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, out with a hamstring injury, did not return to practice Wednesday. He has been out since Monday and coach Leslie Frazier said he will not play in Saturday's preseason opener against the Titans. "I don't see any reason with the window that we have to put him out there," Frazier said. "We've got plenty of time to see Visanthe. We want to see some of those other guys that we want to evaluate."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Shiancoe's hamstring and hope he can return soon. Shiancoe could be in line for a significant season, considering the way new offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave has used tight ends in the past. However, rookie Kyle Rudolph will also be in the mix at tight end, so Shiancoe could lose some targets. Go into the season with Shiancoe as a No. 2 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe tweaked a hamstring in practice on Monday, according to ESPN Radio. The team has not announced the severity of the injury.
Analysis: Shiancoe could be in line for a significant season, considering the way new offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave has used tight ends in the past. This injury does not yet appear to be anything that will affect his status going into the season, but these types of ailments have a way of lingering. Continue to monitor his progress, but for now he remains a very safe pick in Fantasy drafts as a No. 2 Fantasy TE with upside.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is looking forward to 2011. As soon as he learned Bill Musgrave had been named the Vikings offensive coordinator, Shiancoe broke out film from the Falcons and looked it over. He liked what he saw. "The tight end is just very involved in their offense," Shiancoe said. "I'm very excited. ... You can't ask for a better situation than that." Musgrave wasn't Atlanta's offensive coordinator -- Mike Mularkey holds that title -- but he was assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach on Mike Smith's staff and certainly will bring some of the Falcons' philosophy with him as he retools the Vikings offense. What stood out to Shiancoe was the fact the Falcons featured veteran tight end Tony Gonzalez as a primary target. Gonzalez was second on the team with 70 catches for 656 yards and six touchdowns this past season. He also was second on the Falcons in receptions in 2009, catching 83 passes for 867 yards and six touchdowns.
Analysis: Shiancoe, who had a career-high 56 receptions in 2009 with 566 yards and 11 touchdowns, can envision himself being used in a similar way. As for last season, his reception total slid to 47 for 530 yards and two touchdowns. But we can see Shiancoe rebounding in 2011 with the new offense, and it all depends on the QB in Minnesota. Go into the offseason with Shiancoe as a No. 2 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting with a late-round pick.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe could not score at Ford Field for a third straight season during a 20-13 loss to the Lions in Week 17. Shiancoe had scored in each of the previous two seasons when Minnesota traveled to Detroit. But this year the Lions held Shiancoe to two catches for 14 yards and no score in Week 17. In two games against the Lions, Shiancoe managed just three catches for 21 yards.
Analysis: Shiancoe's 2010 season got off to so much promise as he totaled 10 catches for 162 yards and one touchdown in his first two games. Then, it went all downhill from there. Most of his struggles came as QB Brett Favre couldn't find any rhythm under center. Favre was the reason why Shiancoe had so much success in 2009. The Vikings could have a new QB in 2011 and that will dictate Shiancoe's Fantasy value. Still, we envision him being more of a No. 2 Fantasy TE to open the season.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe likes making the trek to Ford Field every year. He has scored a touchdown there in each of the last two seasons and aims for a third straight game with a score at Detroit's home field in Week 17. Shiancoe had just one catch for 7 yards against Detroit in Week 3, but he has 14 catches for 147 yards and two scores in eight career games against the Lions. However, Detroit is allowing TEs to average just 4.9 Fantasy points per week, which is second lowest in the NFL. Detroit has allowed just three touchdowns to TEs.
Analysis: Even if he has a solid outing in Week 17, the 2010 season has been a huge disappointment for Shiancoe. It largely has to do with the play of QB Brett Favre, who was off for most of the season. Shiancoe has just two touchdowns this season and hasn't scored in seven games. It's a drastic turnaround after he scored a career-high 11 times in 2009. Shiancoe is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 17.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe played a role in the Vikings' 24-14 upset win in Philadelphia on Tuesday night in Week 16. The big tight end connected with rookie QB Joe Webb three times for 32 yards, mostly coming in the first half. He was targeted five times by Webb.
Analysis: Shiancoe was definitely among the few receivers that Webb looked to in the passing game in the Week 16 game against the Eagles. That said, Webb struggled to pass the ball with any consistency and since he's starting Week 17 in Detroit, we expect little out of the Minnesota offense. Shiancoe has been unreliable this season and only has two touchdowns to his credit. He's good for a few catches and decent yardage, but Fantasy owners will want a more reliable Fantasy option at this stage of the game heading into the final regular-season contest.
News: The Eagles-Vikings Sunday night game in Week 16 was postponed due to snow and moved to Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET. Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe must now wait two more days to play his Week 16 game. The snow is expected to be gone by Tuesday. The change in game date doesn't really change the expected Fantasy value for the tight end on the surface. The weather should be good by Tuesday but waiting around in a hotel room for two extra days might cause him to lose some value.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been a Fantasy bust this season, and he currently sits outside of the top-10 in all major receiving categories amongst NFL tight ends, including targets. However, he saw nine passes come his way last week. That said, rookie QB Joe Webb may now not start on Tuesday as Brett Favre has more time to heal. Rookie QBs tend to lean on the TE more in the seams than risking longer throws to WRs on the outside. We like Shiancoe to help the young QB out in Week 16, if Webb is actually the guy who starts. Utilize him as a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is coming off a season-high (tied) six catches in last week's lost to the Bears. He will look to put a solid stretch of games together to close out the season in Week 16 against the Eagles, who have given up 10 touchdowns to the tight end position this season. Shiancoe found the end zone against Philadelphia the last time these teams met, back in 2007.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been a Fantasy bust this season, and he currently sits outside of the top-10 in all major receiving categories amongst NFL tight ends, including targets. However, he saw nine passes come his way last week and rookie QB Joe Webb is likely to make his first NFL start on Sunday night. Rookie QBs tend to lean on the TE more in the seams than risking longer throws to WRs on the outside. We like Shiancoe to help the young QB out in Week 16. Utilize him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was fairly productive in Week 15 against the Bears. Shiancoe was targeted a team-high nine times in the 40-14 loss and finished with six receptions for 41 yards. He averaged 6.8 yards a reception and had a long of 11 yards in the contest.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been a huge disappointment this season. He has just two touchdowns on the season after scoring 11 a year ago has posted more than 50 yards receiving just once over his last six games. There is no doubt Brett Favre's injuries have affected his production and it appears Farve may be done for the season after being knocked out with a concussion. That would mean Joe Webb would likely be in line to make his first NFL start in Week 16 against the Eagles. If that is in fact the case, we do not recommend starting Shiancoe against Philadelphia.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is having a down year all around and could be in for another slow performance in Week 15 against the Bears. When the division foes met earlier in the year, the 30-year-old had just 29 yards on four catches. Chicago enters Monday night ranked 18th in the league against the pass, giving up over 225 yards per contest, and have limited opposing tight ends to 5.9 Fantasy points.
Analysis: After catching 11 touchdowns a year ago, Shiancoe has just two this season and has not posted more than three receptions in four games. QB Brett Favre's injuries have effected his production and he might be without him again in Week 15. Rookie Joe Webb is in line to start on Monday night. Shiancoe has just one touchdown in his last 12 games with no 100-yard games. Against the Bears and their tough defense in Week 15, consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had another slow game in Week 14 against the Giants. He was targeted for four passes, but only had one catch for 7 yards in the 21-3 loss.
Analysis: Shiancoe jumped onto the Fantasy map with 11 touchdown grabs last season but his numbers have not been the same in 2010. He has just 36 catches on the year with two scores. QB Brett Favre's injuries have effected his production and it is unknown of the veteran signal caller will be able to return this season. Shiancoe has just one touchdown in his last 12 games with no 100-yard games. With the Bears up next on the schedule continue to view the 30-year-old as a low-end Fantasy TE for Week 15.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe's Week 14 matchup against the Giants holds a special meaning for the veteran tight end. He will get to face the team that drafted him and gave him his start in the NFL in 2003. However, it's not the first time he has gone up against the Giants. In fact, Shiancoe hasn't lost to New York in three career matchups. He has 10 catches for 121 yards and one touchdown in that span. Although, this year's matchup will prove to be challenging seeing how the Giants are allowing TEs to average just 4.9 Fantasy points per week, which is tied for fourth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: It's been a very disappointing season from a Fantasy standpoint for Shiancoe. It got off to a fine start, but as soon as QB Brett Favre's injuries started to pile up, Shiancoe's production started to decline. He has just one touchdown in his last 11 games and has no 100-yard games in 2010. Favre is expecting to play Week 14 despite hurting his shoulder in Week 13, but we still don't like the matchup for Shiancoe since the Giants have bottled up TEs in '10. Shiancoe is at best a No. 2 Fantasy TE. Note: kickoff was shifted from Sunday afternoon to Monday night because of inclement weather in Minneapolis.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe made two catches for 17 yards in a 38-14 rout of Buffalo in Week 13. Shiancoe has exceeded 60 receiving yards only once since Week 2, and he has not scored a touchdown over his last four games.
Analysis: Tight ends have fared well against the Bills so far this season, but Shiancoe could not end his slump despite his team's overall success. This game is just one more bit of evidence for Fantasy owners that they can't count on Shiancoe to produce on a weekly basis, and that more often than not, he is a risky start. He will continue to be a No. 2 Fantasy TE going into Week 14.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has not scored a touchdown in any of his past three games, and he has accumulated just 89 receiving yards over that span. In Week 13, he will face a Bills defensive unit that has allowed tight ends to rack up more Fantasy points than any other unit in the league, save for the Texans. Shiancoe's two best games this year so far have come against the Saints in Week 1 and the Cardinals in Week 9, a pair of teams that have been allowing tight ends more than the median number of Fantasy points per game.
Analysis: Despite a very favorable matchup, a big week is no certainty for Shiancoe against the Bills. Buffalo possesses the league's worst rushing defense, so the Vikings could be running the ball a lot, especially if Adrian Peterson is healthy enough to play. However, if you don't have one of the top Fantasy TEs available, it's worth pulling Shiancoe off reserves or waivers to give you a start in Week 13.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe led Minnesota in receiving yards on Sunday of Week 12 during a 17-13 win over Washington. Shiancoe caught three passes for a team-high 54 yards. His long catch went for 29 yards and he did not score in the game. Quarterback Brett Favre targeted Shiancoe six times in the passing game.
Analysis: Despite leading the Vikings in receiving yards on Sunday, Shiancoe still had a pretty mediocre game. He has combined to make nine catches for 89 yards and no scores in his last three games. Shiancoe has just two touchdowns on the year and his last came Week 9 against Arizona. The Vikings passing game has been dismal of late and Favre managed just 172 passing yards total in the Week 12 win. The Vikings play Buffalo in Week 13 and will focus heavily on the run. Shiancoe will be mostly a No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 13.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe heads into Week 12 at Washington with little on his side that would suggest he's going to have a good game. Shiancoe and the Vikings' passing game, in general, have been struggling. Shiancoe himself has only caught one touchdown pass since Week 1 of the season and hasn't topped 66 yards since Week 2. Brett Favre has not looked his way consistently and now the team has another receiving target to throw to with Sidney Rice returning last week.
Analysis: Some might suggest that Rice's return could open up the middle of the field for Shiancoe. It certainly didn't Week 11 against Green Bay as Shiancoe pulled in two catches for 6 yards. He has played two career games against the Redskins and has five catches for 28 yards in those games without any touchdowns, the last game coming back in 2007. These Redskins have allowed huge chunks of passing yardage to opposing teams this year but have also effectively shut down opposing tight ends. Favre will not hesitate to go deep to his wideouts, leaving Shiancoe begging for a ball that may never come his way. He's nothing but a low-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 12.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 6 yards in a Week 11 loss to the Packers.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been mostly a disaster of late with just one game of more than 40 yards in his last seven and one touchdown in his last eight. Fantasy owners will surely be jumping ship after this awful outing, and the inconsistency of QB Brett Favre certainly isn't helping things. If you can, avoid using Shiancoe in Week 12 at Washington.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who has less than 40 receiving yards in six of his last seven games after having more than 75 receiving yards in each of his first two, will try to get back on track Week 11 against the Packers. Unfortunately, he's not in the best position to do so. The Packers rank 11th against the pass, allowing 211.8 yards per game, and have given up only nine passing touchdowns compared to 14 interceptions. Shiancoe had only three catches for 30 yards against them back in Week 7.
Analysis: Vikings QB Brett Favre leaned on Shiancoe in the early going when he was adjusting to life without Sidney Rice, but Percy Harvin has become the preferred target since then. Shiancoe could still get looks in the red zone, but considering the Packers have allowed just nine passing touchdowns all season, the Vikings might not get many opportunities to throw in the red zone. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE.
News:Visanthe Shiancoe caught four of the seven passes thrown his way from Brett Favre against the Bears in Week 10, but had just 29 yards to show for it. Shiancoe was a good short-area target for Favre, especially after he lost Bernard Berrian before the game and Percy Harvin in the fourth quarter, but his yardage total doesn't reflect that. Shiancoe slipped going for an errant Favre pass late in the game that resulted in a game-clinching interception for Chicago.
Analysis: Definitely a disappointing outing for Shiancoe, who scored in each of two meetings against the Bears in 2009. Up next for him: The Packers, a team he tallied just 30 yards against earlier this season in Green Bay. If Harvin and Berrian miss Week 11, then Shiancoe should expect a lot more work headed his way. But with the Packers typically playing well against opposing tight ends, perhaps Shiancoe should spend Week 11 on your bench.
News: The bad news for Visanthe Shiancoe heading into his Week 10 matchup at Chicago is that the Bears have yet to allow a tight end to score this season (eight games). The good news? Shiancoe scored in each matchup with the Bears in 2009, totaling 91 yards and nine catches in those games. Chicago has allowed three tight ends (Chris Cooley, Jermichael Finley, Jason Witten) to top 50 yards on them this season. Shiancoe scored last week against the Cardinals, his first TD since Week 1, and has four receptions in each of his last two games.
Analysis: The reality is that Shiancoe is too good of a tight end to sit in Fantasy. Assuming you don't have a better option on your roster (there aren't many; consult our rankings for more), be prepared to start Shiancoe in Week 10.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was targeted five times in Week 9, all in the fourth quarter, as he played a key role in a 27-24 comeback win over the Cardinals. He made four catches for 66 yards in the final period during regulation, including a 25-yard touchdown reception with 34 seconds left that knotted the game at 24-24 and sent the game into overtime. The score was Shiancoe's second of the season and his first since Week 1 at New Orleans.
Analysis: For the first three periods, Shiancoe was invisible, much like he has been for much of the season. Brett Favre got him involved just in time to make an impact, both in the game and in Fantasy. Even with WR Randy Moss out of the picture, Shiancoe was not a major factor in the Vikings' passing attack, as 33 of Favre's 47 passes went to either Percy Harvin or Bernard Berrian. Owners should see if Shiancoe can sustain his heightened level of production in Week 10 against the Bears before trusting him as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has neither scored nor collected more than 40 receiving yards since Week 2, but he has a good opportunity to turn his season around in Week 9. The Vikes will host the Cardinals, who have one of the league's worst pass defenses. Arizona ranks 12th in most passing yards per game allowed, and they have been the ninth worst team in weekly average Fantasy points earned by opposing tight ends. Shiancoe could also be targeted more often, now that WR Randy Moss has moved on to the Titans.
Analysis: Since Week 2, Shiancoe has not been a factor in Fantasy, and he is still too risky to use as a No. 1 TE this week, even with the favorable matchup. However, his performance against the Cardinals could be a good indication of whether he will have much value going forward this season. He will have tougher matchups ahead against the Bears and Packers in the next two weeks, so if he doesn't produce this week, it does not bode well for the weeks coming up.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe turned in another very pedestrian performance in Week 8 against the Patriots. Shiancoe was targeted five times in the 28-18 loss and finished with four receptions for 38 yards. He had a long of 17 yards and failed to score in the contest.
Analysis: Shiancoe's disappointing season continued on Sunday as he again was not much of a factor. He has recorded just 10 receptions for 103 yards over his last five games and only has one touchdown on the season. He isn't producing like he did a season ago and has only been targeted twice in the red zone. Shiancoe has definitely been a bit a Fantasy disappointment this year and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 9 against the Cardinals.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe turned in another very pedestrian performance in Week 8 against the Patriots. Shiancoe was targeted five times in the 28-18 loss and finished with four receptions for 38 yards. He had a long of 17 yards and failed to score in the contest.
Analysis: Shiancoe's disappointing season continued on Sunday as he again was not much of a factor. He has recorded just 10 receptions for 103 yards over his last five games and only has one touchdown on the season. He isn't producing like he did a season ago and has only been targeted twice in the red zone this season. Shiancoe has definitely been a bit a Fantasy disappointment this season and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 9 against the Cardinals.
News: TE Visanthe Shiancoe said he thinks the Vikings' offense is close to firing on all cylinders. "Its not too late to get this thing rolling but at the same time there has to be some sense of urgency because things aren't right," Shiancoe said. The Vikings will face a Patriots' team in Week 8 that has struggled to defend the pass this season. New England is ranked 30th in pass defense and has allowed an average of 8.7 Fantasy points to opposing TEs this season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has been a non-factor of late, recording just six receptions for 65 yards over his last four games. Favre looked his way quite often last Sunday against the Packers, however, Favre might not be able to play this week which means Tarvaris Jackson would get the start. Still, the Patriots have not been good defending the pass and have allowed four different TEs to score touchdowns in six games this season. Fantasy owners should consider Shiancoe a No. 2 TE against the Patriots.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe nearly scored his first TD since the season opener during the Week 7 loss to the Packers. He was the hot read for Brett Favre when Green Bay was blitzing, and Shiancoe seemed to catch it and go down to the ground with ease, but after video review it was determined that the ball was moving during the catch, and the play was reversed. Shiancoe finished with 30 yards receiving on three catches. Favre targeted him six times in the loss.
Analysis: Shiancoe nearly had a great game but his Fantasy owners should see his progress after failing to catch one pass in the team's last game, when he was not even targeted. Favre looked his way six times on Sunday Night, third on the team to Percy Harvin and Randy Moss. The Vikings travel to New England in Week 8, to face a Patriots defense that has allowed four different TEs to score touchdowns in six games this season. Shiancoe should remain active in Fantasy play at New England in Week 8.
News: After not being targeted once against the Cowboys in Week 6, Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe should be relived to see the Packers on the schedule in Week 7. He has scored a touchdown against Green Bay in each of the last two games he played against them (both in 2009). However, he totaled just 30 receiving yards combined in those two games. The Packers have allowed four different opposing TEs to finish with at least 60 yards receiving against them in just six weeks.
Analysis: The Packers rank 17th in the NFL in passing defense, allowing 215.5 yards per game. Shiancoe will look to take advantage of his history against them, but the lack of production this season -- 13 catches for 197 yards and one touchdown -- is a bit of a red flag. The acquisition of Randy Moss has seemed to take targets away from Shiancoe even though he flourished with the similar (to Moss) Sidney Rice in 2009. We think Shiancoe will be a factor against the Packers, but maybe not as much as he was last year. Consider him to be a No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 7.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was not a factor in Week 6 against the Cowboys. Shiancoe was not targeted once in the 24-21 win. His only contribution was a holding penalty in the third quarter.
Analysis: The Vikings game plan was run heavy against the Cowboys, so that could have played into his no reception day. He is also still dealing with a hamstring injury that could be hampering his progress. Whatever the reason is, Shiancoe has not been producing lately. He has just three catches for 35 yards over his last three games and only one receiving touchdown on the season. Fantasy owners may want to look at other options at the tight end position until he starts producing again. The Vikings travel to Green Bay in Week 7.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was ruled active for Week 6 against the Cowboys. Shiancoe was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as he continues to deal with an injured hamstring. However, he did practice in full on Friday will be on the field Sunday.
Analysis: The Cowboys are tied with the Colts for fewest receptions allowed to tight ends with 14, and Greg Olsen is the lone tight end to score against Dallas and reach double digits in Fantasy points. Shiancoe did score against Dallas last year in the playoff game, but he only had one catch for 11 yards. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE this week.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday as he continues to deal with an injured hamstring, but he was able to practice in full on Friday. Minnesota plays host to Dallas in Week 6, and Shiancoe was able to play in Week 5 despite the injury, although he managed just two catches for 28 yards. He is officially listed as probable.
Analysis: The Cowboys are tied with the Colts for fewest receptions allowed to tight ends with 14, and Greg Olsen is the lone tight end to score against Dallas and reach double digits in Fantasy points. Shiancoe did score against Dallas last year in the playoff game, but he only had one catch for 11 yards. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE this week since he's less than 100 percent. Along with that, QB Brett Favre is dealing with a sore elbow, which could limit Minnesota's passing game.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was limited in practice Thursday as he continues to deal with an injured hamstring. He was limited in Wednesday's practice as well. Minnesota plays host to Dallas in Week 6, and Shiancoe was able to play in Week 5 despite the injury, although he managed just two catches for 28 yards.
Analysis: The Cowboys are tied with the Colts for fewest receptions allowed to tight ends with 14, and Greg Olsen is the lone tight end to score against Dallas and reach double digits in Fantasy points. Shiancoe did score against Dallas last year in the playoff game, but he only had one catch for 11 yards. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE this week since he's less than 100 percent. Along with that, QB Brett Favre is dealing with a sore elbow, which could limit Minnesota's passing game.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was limited in practice Wednesday with a hamstring injury. Minnesota host Dallas in Week 6.
Analysis: Shiancoe caught just two passes for 28 yards in a Week 5 loss to the Jets and could well see fewer targets the rest of the season thanks to the addition of WR Randy Moss. If Shiancoe is good to go in Week 6, view him as just a No. 2 Fantasy TE and keep a close eye on his targets.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe saw some passes thrown his way in Week 5 against the Jets but was not able to haul in many in the 29-20 loss. He was targeted seven times by QB Brett Favre but caught just two passes for 28 yards. Shiancoe, who dealt with a hamstring injury earlier in the week, finished third on Minnesota in receiving behind WRs Percy Harvin (97 yards, two touchdowns) and Randy Moss (81 yards, one touchdown).
Analysis: Shiancoe, who left Week 3 with his hamstring injury, has caught just three passes for 35 yards in his last two games. That's a stark contrast to the 10 receptions for 162 yards and a touchdown he posted in the first two games of the season. It is unclear whether his injury hindered him on Monday night or if the presence of Moss in the passing game was a factor. Fantasy owners should continue to keep an eye on the situation in Minnesota but hopefully Shiancoe will be able to get back on track against the Cowboys next week. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 6.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has been ruled active for Week 5 against the Jets. Shiancoe has been dealing with a hamstring injury and was limited in practice this week. He has 11 receptions for 169 yards and one touchdown over the first three games of the season.
Analysis: The eight-year veteran had his best season as a pro last year has he made 56 catches for 566 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. With Randy Moss back in town for Minnesota, Shiancoe could see more one-on-one coverage as the Jets focus on Moss. Tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Todd Heap have both had good games against New York, so Fantasy owners of Shiancoe could expect a similar performance. We view Shiancoe as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 5.
News: Despite being limited in practice earlier in the week, Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was listed as probable for Week 5. Shiancoe, who has been dealing with a hamstring injury, and the Vikings take on the Jets on Monday night. Through three games, Shiancoe has 11 receptions for 169 yards and one touchdown.
Analysis: Shiancoe gets an extra day of rest before they face the Jets in Week 5. The eight-year veteran had his best season as a pro last year has he made 56 catches for 566 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. With Randy Moss back in town for Minnesota Shiancoe could see more one-on-one coverage as the Jets focus on Moss. Tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Todd Heap have both had good games against New York, so Fantasy owners of Shiancoe could expect a similar performance. We view Shiancoe as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 5.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) was limited in practice on both Thursday and Friday this week. Shiancoe and the Vikings take on the Jets on Monday night.
Analysis: Shiancoe gets an extra day of rest before they face the Jets in Week 5. Through three games, Shiancoe has 11 receptions for 169 yards and one touchdown. The eight-year veteran had his best season as a pro last year has he made 56 catches for 566 yards and scored 11 touchdowns. With Randy Moss back in town for Minnesota Shiancoe could see more one-on-one coverage as the Jets focus on Moss. Tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Todd Heap have both had good games against New York, so Fantasy owners of Shiancoe could expect a similar performance. We view Shiancoe as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 5, if he is healthy.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (hamstring) was limited in practice on Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 against the Jets. Shiancoe needs only six yards receiving to move into fourth place all-time among Vikings tight ends. Shiancoe's 1,654 yards trails Jermaine Wiggins.
Analysis: The Vikings don't play until Monday, so Shiancoe gets an extra day to rest. Whether that will help remains to be seen. Hopefully, we know more in the coming days. The arrival of Randy Moss isn't such a bad thing for Shiancoe. It could mean he could see a lot more one-on-one coverage as teams look to shut down Moss. Just remember how successful Shiancoe was in 2009 when teams tried to stop Sidney Rice. TEs Todd Heap and Aaron Hernandez both had great success against New York this season, so Shiancoe could have a good game in Week 5. Consider Shiancoe a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 5, if he is healthy.
News: The Vikings acquired WR Randy Moss from the Patriots Wednesday, giving the team another great receiving option and forcing defenses to change their pass coverage. That should be good news for TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who was already playing well this season before the trade because QB Brett Favre had success throwing to him. Moss should be able to make the same kind of impact Sidney Rice made with the Vikings last year, meaning that Shiancoe should continue to cruise as a receiving threat.
Analysis: Shiancoe's status remains solid heading into his Week 5 matchup against the Jets, a team that has yielded some quality stats to opposing tight ends. New York has given up touchdowns in each of their last two games to tight ends and athletic TEs like Todd Heap and Aaron Hernandez have posted nice games against them without scoring. Keep Shiancoe active for Week 5.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe said Monday his hamstring got a lot better during the bye week but wouldn't elaborate further. Despite not being able to practice, Shiancoe kept up his reputation as being the last guy off the field, sticking around after to catch balls. He will likely be listed as questionable heading into Week 5 at the Jets. Shiancoe was hurt in Week 3 against the Lions, and coach Brad Childress said Monday Shiancoe is "making progress."
Analysis: We expect Shiancoe to play against the Jets, and he would be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues as long as he's healthy. The Jets have allowed a touchdown to Anthony Fasano and David Martin in each of the past two weeks against the Dolphins and Bills and are showing a weakness in the secondary against tight ends. Keep an eye on Shiancoe throughout the week and see if he's able to practice, which will determine his status for this week.
News: Minnesota Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe left his team's Week 3 win over the Lions with a leg injury in the third quarter and did not return. After the game, he told reporters that he tweaked something -- likely his hamstring. "I need the bye right now," said Shiancoe. He finished the game with just one catch for 7 yards.
Analysis: Shiancoe had been heavily targeted by QB Brett Favre, getting 16 passes thrown his way in the first two weeks of the season. He had just one pass go his way in two-plus quarters in Week 3. Shiancoe did have some struggles against the Lions last year as well, but has otherwise been a steady option for Favre and Fantasy owners. You'll have to look for alternatives in Week 4 due to the bye, but we anticipate Shiancoe being a solid No. 1 TE option even with a tough matchup against the Jets on the road. Monitor his progress.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe will face a familiar opponent in Week 3 against the Lions. He had limited success in two meetings against his division rival last season, catching just four passes for 45 yards. He was held to a single catch for 1 yard in Week 2 at Detroit last season. The Lions have allowed the third most passing yards in the NFL through two weeks and have given up four passing touchdowns in two games. However, they have allowed just 78 yards combined to opposing tight ends in the first two weeks of the season, tied for the fourth fewest in the league.
Analysis: The good news is that Shiancoe has been heavily targeted by QB Brett Favre, getting 16 passes thrown his way in the first two weeks of the season (fourth among NFL tight ends). That has led to Shiancoe scoring the third most Fantasy points in the NFL in standard-scoring leagues and is the reason we recommend starting him in all leagues despite his poor recent history against the Lions.
News:Brett Favre might be playing awful football, but don't tell that to Visanthe Shiancoe. The Vikings tight end caught a team-high six passes for a team-best 86 receiving yards vs. the Dolphins in Week 2. Shiancoe was targeted nine times in the game and leads all Vikings receivers with 10 catches for 162 yards and a score through two games.
Analysis: Shiancoe remains a must-start amid a turbulent time for the 0-2 Vikings. He didn't put up big numbers against the Lions, his Week 3 opponent, last season but did score on them once in two games. Expect him to continue to be Favre's best weapon when he plays against the Leos in Week 3. Keep him active.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was about the only bright spot for the offense in Week 1 at the Saints, and 10 days later he'll have a chance to be a bright spot again vs. the Dolphins. Miami didn't allow a tight end to catch a pass last week at Buffalo, but the Bills don't have any good tight ends on the active roster. Last season the Dolphins were poor against opposing tight ends, allowing the third-most yards to the position compared to the rest of the league.
Analysis: With Brett Favre likely looking to get comfortable, expect Shiancoe to be a top target of his again in Week 2. Shiancoe is a solid start for Fantasy owners.
News: In 2009, Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe became one of the NFL's best tight ends as Brett Favre took over under center in Minnesota. If Shiancoe's start to the 2010 season is any indication, then he is here to stay as one of the top tight ends in the league. Shiancoe was Minnesota's most-productive receiver in a Week 1 loss to the Saints. He totaled a team-high four receptions for 76 yards and one touchdown. Favre found Shiancoe on precision down-the-middle completions of 33 and 20 yards in the second quarter, the second for the Vikings' only TD. Shiancoe was targeted seven times in the game.
Analysis: We are not surprised that Favre continues to lean heavily on throwing to his tight ends. He did it with the Packers and now he continues to target Shiancoe. His presence means even more for Favre as Sidney Rice sits on the PUP list with a hip injury. Fantasy owners should probably feel confident with starting Shiancoe on a regular basis, especially seeing how tight end is a Fantasy position that isn't usually filled with elite options. The Vikings head home in Week 2 to welcome in the Dolphins. Shiancoe had 34 catches for 373 yards and six touchdowns in eight home games last season.
News: The arrival of QB Brett Favre in 2009 made Visanthe Shiancoe one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Shiancoe's career-high 11 touchdown last season was second highest among tight ends, only trailing San Francisco's Vernon Davis, who had 13. Shiancoe opens the season in Week 1 against the Saints. Shiancoe has four catches for 83 yards in the NFC title game against New Orleans last season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has faced the Saints just four times in the regular season, compiling five catches for 35 yards. However, two of those catches have gone for scores. The loss of Sidney Rice (hip) for the Vikings means Shiancoe has to continue to be a go-to-player for Favre. We like Shiancoe as a No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 1. It also helps his cause that the Saints will be without safety Darren Sharper, which could open the middle of the field for Shiancoe.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had three catches for 28 yards in Saturday's preseason game against the Seahawks. He had three targets in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe should see a rise in value with Sidney Rice (hip) out for the beginning of the year, and we know Shiancoe does well in the red zone. He had 11 touchdowns in 2009, and he has 18 touchdowns in the past two seasons. Look for him to find the end zone quite a bit again this season, and he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a mid-round pick.
News: With the Vikings losing Pro Bowl wide receiver Sidney Rice for half of the 2010 season following hip surgery, other members of their passing attack are expected to pick up the slack. This includes tight end Visanthe Shiancoe, who had an instant rapport with QB Brett Favre in 2009 when they combined for 56 receptions for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Analysis: Favre targeted Shiancoe 78 times during the regular season (about five times per game), and with Rice out that number could shoot straight up. All signs point to Shiancoe being healthy and ready for the start of the season, and with Favre always leaning on tight ends throughout his career, there's no reason to believe he'll ignore Shiancoe now. Consider the burly Vikings tight end a solid No. 1 Fantasy choice worth a pick between Rounds 8 and 10 depending on the size of the league.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe started Sunday's preseason game against San Francisco, but didn't make the box score. He wasn't targeted once during his time on the field. Shiancoe has been limited in practice the past few weeks with a shoulder sprain.
Analysis: Shiancoe is probably extremely happy Brett Favre is back with the Vikings as he had his most productive year in the NFL in 2009. The veteran caught 56 passes for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns. Fantasy owners should monitor Shiancoe's shoulder issue until Draft Day to make sure you have the latest news on him. With Favre back, Shiancoe should be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a middle- to late-round pick.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe returned to practice Monday after not making the trip to St. Louis for Saturday's preseason game against the Rams. Shiancoe has been dealing with a shoulder sprain.
Analysis: Shiancoe seems to be recovered from his shoulder sprain and should be ready to go for the start of the season. He had his most productive season in 2009, catching 56 passes for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns. His production last season was aided by the arrival of Brett Favre, who has agreed to return to the Vikings this season. Shiancoe can still be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a middle- to late-round pick.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not travel with the team to St. Louis for Saturday's preseason opener against the Rams. He has missed several days of practice due to an undisclosed injury.
Analysis: Shiancoe had his finest season in 2009, catching 56 passes for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns. His emergence coincided with the arrival of Brett Favre, who is still a question mark to return this year. But with or without Favre, we still like Shiancoe as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe took part in some individual drills, looking sharp after missing time this week with an undisclosed injury. The Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that Shiancoe jogged to the locker room at the start of the team drills, which means he's gone another day without working in full. There's still no confirmation on what part of his body he strained.
Analysis: So long as Shiancoe continues to make some progress on the mystery strain, he should be fine for the start of the season. He's worth considering as a No. 1 Fantasy tight end this year, though he'll need QB Brett Favre under center to really deliver.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe took part in individual drills with the other tight ends on Wednesday, his first work in practice since last Saturday. His status for Saturday's preseason game is uncertain as he deals with an undisclosed strain. Shiancoe is expected to be fine for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: Shiancoe seems to be working his way back from his mystery strain. So long as he keeps doing so, he's worth considering as a No. 1 Fantasy tight end this year, though he'll need QB Brett Favre under center to really maximize his stats.
News: Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe didn't practice again Tuesday due to an undisclosed injury. Shiancoe wouldn't talk about the injury and was coy about whether or not he would play in the team's first preseason game against the Rams on Saturday. Head coach Brad Childress said Monday that Shiancoe has a "strain" but wouldn't elaborate. Shiancoe is expected to be fine for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has missed a couple of practices, but until he misses more time we have no reason to be concerned. He's a No. 1 Fantasy tight end this year to be sure, but he'll need QB Brett Favre under center to really maximize his stats.
News: Tight end Visanthe Shiancoe didn't practice again due to an undisclosed injury with the Vikings on Monday. Shiancoe wouldn't talk about the injury and was coy about whether or not he would play in the team's first preseason game against the Rams on Saturday. "We'll see, man," Shiancoe said with a smile to KSTP-AM. "I just took the day off, that's all. I got some good blood, man." Coach Brad Childress said Shiancoe has a "strain" but wouldn't elaborate. Childress said Shiancoe will be OK but that his status for Saturday's preseason game is uncertain.
Analysis: Shiancoe has missed a couple of practices now, but until he misses more time we have no reason to be concerned. He's a No. 1 Fantasy tight end this year to be sure, but he'll need QB Brett Favre under center to really maximize his stats.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports that Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has bulked up this offseason. After dropping weight following the season, Shiancoe has gained nine pounds in the offseason. He said he plans to add more bulk for next season. "It's going to be a bigger version and a more cut-up version of Shank," he said.
Analysis: Shiancoe also indicated that QB Brett Favre will be back this year. "You already know how Brett does," Shiancoe said. "It's Favre-a-palooza. A 40-something-year-old guy, me personally, in my opinion, camp for a 40-year-old guy? It might be unnecessary." That's good news for Shiancoe, and we like him as a No. 1 Fantasy TE entering the season. Plan on drafting him in all leagues with a mid-round pick.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe only managed one reception in Sunday's NFC Divisional Playoff win over the Cowboys, 34-3. Shiancoe caught one pass for 11 yards and it came late in the 4th quarter with the game already decided. Shiancoe dove for the grab in the end zone for a touchdown to give the game its final margin.
Analysis: Shiancoe continues to be a touchdown machine for the Vikings and QB Brett Favre. He finished the regular season with touchdowns in two straight games and is now at three straight despite not getting a lot of looks on Sunday against the Cowboys. He finished the regular season with 566 receiving yards but added 11 touchdowns to that number and will enter 2010 as a top-notch Fantasy TE option, likely a No. 1. He's also a solid choice in any Playoff Challenge league against the Saints in the NFC Championship game next weekend.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe (quadriceps) will play, as expected, in the Divisional Playoff game against Dallas on Sunday. Shiancoe went through a full week of practice and will start against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Shiancoe finished the regular season with 56 catches for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns and has improved his numbers in each of his first three seasons with the Vikings. He is a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into 2010 and a solid option for all Playoff Challenge leagues.
News: Vikings TE Vistanthe Shiancoe (quadriceps) was limited in practice Thursday for a second straight day. He is listed as questionable heading into the Divisional Round against Dallas.
Analysis: Look for Shiancoe to play against the Cowboys and consider him a good Fantasy option in playoff leagues. Shiancoe finished the regular season with 56 catches for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns and has improved his numbers in each of his first three seasons with the Vikings. He is a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into 2010.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh) was activated and listed as the starting TE for Week 17 against the Giants. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report. Shiancoe finished the game with seven grabs for 94 yards and a touchdown against his former team.
Analysis: Shiancoe has posted back-to-back strong seasons in Minnesota and has become a very reliable Fantasy tight end. He finished this season with 56 catches for 566 yards and 11 touchdowns and has improved his numbers in each of his first three seasons with the Vikings. He is clearly at the peak of his potential for production and will be worth drafting in all leagues this fall in the middle to late rounds.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (thigh) was activated and listed as the starting TE for Week 17 against the Giants. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Shiancoe has appeared on the injury report several times this season, but never with a thigh injury. The Vikings are still playing for a first-round bye, so you have to figure Shiancoe will play a full game as long as its competitive. Keep him active as a low-end No. 1 tight end. Even if he doesn't get as much yardage as most, he gets looks in the red zone.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, who missed practice Wednesday with a thigh injury, returned in a limited capacity Thursday and Friday as the team prepares for Week 17 against the Giants. He managed to play Week 16 at Chicago and recorded his 10th touchdown grab of the season. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New York.
Analysis: Shiancoe has appeared on the injury report several times this season, but never with a thigh injury. The Vikings are still playing for a first-round bye, so you have to figure Shiancoe will make every effort to play and play his best. Keep him active as a low-end No. 1 tight end. Even if he doesn't get as much yardage as most, he gets plenty of touchdowns.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was back on the practice injury report on Wednesday with a thigh problem. He's been on the report for the last few weeks with various leg injuries and has yet to miss time. He could not practice Wednesday as the Vikings prepare for Week 17 against the Giants.
Analysis: Shiancoe caught more than three passes for the first time since Week 12 and scored for the fourth time in his last six games on Monday night in Week 16. He has scored 10 touchdowns this season but is slowing down with the regular season. He is worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for the Week 17 matchup against the Giants.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught four passes for 40 yards in the Monday night Week 16 overtime loss to the Bears. The Vikings tight end hauled in a 6-yard TD pass from QB Brett Favre in the 3rd quarter of the game as the Viking scored 30 second-half points to induce overtime before they lost the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe caught more than three passes for the first time since Week 12 and scored for the fourth time in his last six games. He’s been limited with his receiving yardage of late due to the struggles of Brett Favre to close out the season. He has scored 10 touchdowns this season, including one in this game, but is slowing down with the regular season. Hopefully he goes for bigger yardage against the Giants in Week 17. He’s still worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for that matchup.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had three catches for 24 yards Sunday at Carolina. He now has just seven catches for 60 yards and a touchdown in his past three games.
Analysis: Shiancoe should rebound in Week 16 at Chicago. Shiancoe caught five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown Week 12 against the Bears. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (ribs, foot) returned to full practice Friday as Minnesota prepares for Week 15 at Carolina.
Analysis: Shiancoe struggled in Week 14 against the Bengals with two grabs for 19 yards. He only managed 14 yards receiving in Week 13 but scored against Arizona. In fact, he's scored nine touchdowns this season and had one in three straight during Weeks 11-13. For those reasons he deserves use as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 15.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares to play at Carolina in Week 15. Shiancoe has spent time on the injury report in recent weeks with a ribs injury but is now also battling a minor foot problem.
Analysis: Shiancoe struggled in Week 14 against the Bengals with two grabs for 19 yards. He only managed 14 yards receiving in Week 13 but scored against Arizona. In fact, he's scored nine touchdowns this season and had one in three straight during Weeks 11-13. For those reasons, if he's healthy, he deserves use as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 15.
News: In the Vikings' Week 14 win vs. the Bengals, TE Visanthe Shiancoe disappointed with two catches for 19 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: Shiancoe usually delivers better than this but didn't this week against a good Bengals secondary. Expect him to rebound to some degree at the Panthers in Week 15.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe (ribs) was able to practice in full on Friday as the team prepares for its Week 14 game against the Bengals. Shiancoe caught just two passes for 14 yards Week 13 against Arizona but did manage to score a touchdown. He has been listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe is playing hurt, which might have been part of the reason for limited production. Still, he's too hot to consider benching at this point -- start him in all leagues for Week 14 action against the Bengals as the injured ribs should not keep him out.
News: In the Vikings' Week 13 loss at the Cardinals, TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught just two passes for 14 yards, but he made one, a 3-yard pass, count for a touchdown. Shiancoe has nine touchdowns on the season, tying a Vikings record.
Analysis: Shiancoe is playing hurt, which might have been part of the reason for limited production. Still, he's too hot to consider benching at this point -- start him in all leagues for Week 14 action against the Bengals.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe, limited in practice all week by a rib injury, is active for Week 13 at Arizona. He has eight touchdowns this season and has played in 107 straight regular-season games.
Analysis: Shiancoe doesn't get as much yardage as some tight ends, but he's one of QB Brett Favre's favorite targets in the red zone, making him a consistent scorer in Fantasy. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Vikings tight end Visanthe Shiancoe is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Arizona. He hurt his ribs in last week's victory over Chicago and has been limited in practice all week. Shiancoe has eight touchdowns this season and has played in 107 straight regular season games.
Analysis: Shiancoe doesn't get as much yardage as some tight ends, but he's one of QB Brett Favre's favorite targets in the red zone, making him a consistent scorer in Fantasy. Keep him active as a No. 1 option Week 13 at Arizona as long as he's active. We'll have the definitive word on him Sunday evening around 7 p.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (ribs) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 13 at Arizona. Shiancoe was active in Week 12 against the Chicago and caught five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Shiancoe has a career-high eight touchdowns and has benefited tremendously from the arrival of Brett Favre. Shiancoe has become a pretty reliable No. 1 Fantasy TE. He is expected to play Sunday barring a setback.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday with injured ribs as the team prepares for its Week 13 game at Arizona. Shiancoe caught five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown Week 12 against the Bears.
Analysis: Shiancoe doesn't get as much yardage as some tight ends, but he's one of QB Brett Favre's favorite targets in the red zone, making him a consistent scorer in Fantasy. Keep him active as a No. 1 option Week 13 at Arizona as long as the injury doesn't keep him out.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught five passes for 51 yards and a touchdown -- a 6-yarder in the second quarter -- Week 12 against the Bears. He has now scored three touchdowns in his last four games and eight this season.
Analysis: Shiancoe doesn't get as much yardage as some tight ends, but he's one of QB Brett Favre's favorite targets in the red zone, making him a consistent scorer in Fantasy. Keep him active as a No. 1 option Week 13 at Arizona.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has matched his career high with seven touchdowns set last year, and he still has six games to go heading into Week 12 against Chicago. Shiancoe scored at Chicago last season and has five catches for 88 yards in his past two games with the Bears. Chicago has allowed six touchdowns to opposing tight ends, and Brett Favre continues to look for Shiancoe in the red zone.
Analysis: Consider Shiancoe a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE this week and hope for more production at this level.
News: Another nice week for Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe: Eight catches for 78 yards with a touchdown. He has matched his 2008 total of seven scores on the season.
Analysis: If Shiancoe had more weeks like this he'd be a must-start No. 1 Fantasy tight end. Of course, many people start him as such weekly anyway. Definitely figure him to find a way to score his eighth touchdown vs. the Bears in Week 12.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had three catches for 43 yards Sunday against Detroit. This was the first time in the past three games against the Lions that Shiancoe did not score a touchdown.
Analysis: Shiancoe continues to be a solid TE in all leagues. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option against Seattle in Week 11.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe managed just one reception the last time the Vikings took the field in Week 8 at Green Bay. That catch was a 12-yard touchdown, however. Minnesota returns from their bye week to face Detroit in Week 10. Shiancoe managed just one reception against the Lions earlier this year in Detroit but that catch also went for a touchdown. In fact, Shiancoe has scored the last two times he's faced the Lions.
Analysis: Shiancoe has become one of the more reliable Fantasy tight ends in the league this season with Brett Favre throwing him passes. He's scored six touchdowns in eight games and has five in his last five alone. The Lions are one of the NFL's worst pass defenses so go ahead and treat Shiancoe as a must-start No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught just one pass for 12 yards in a Week 8 win over Green Bay, but he made the grab count as it went for six points.
Analysis: Shiancoe now has five touchdowns in his last five games as Brett Favre continues to look his way in the red zone. The Vikings are off in Week 9, so you'll have to look elsewhere for a TE option.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe wasn't a key part of his team's outing at Pittsburgh in Week 7, catching four passes for 27 yards. Shiancoe had scored in his three previous games.
Analysis: Shiancoe might be more involved in Week 8 when the Vikings head to Green Bay. Shiancoe scored against the Packers earlier this year, so consider him more of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy tight end for the upcoming game.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had another solid game Sunday against Baltimore. Shiancoe had four catches for 48 yards and two touchdowns. He now has five touchdowns on the season and has scored a touchdown in three straight games.
Analysis: Shiancoe continues to have a breakout season, even more than last year when he had seven touchdowns. Keep Shiancoe active in all leagues for Week 7 at Pittsburgh, and the Steelers have struggled with tight ends this season.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught four passes for 49 yards and a touchdown in a Week 5 rout of the Rams. Shiancoe now has three scores in his last four games.
Analysis: Shiancoe is really starting to click with Brett Favre these days, especially in the red zone. The Vikings host Baltimore in Week 6, and Shiancoe is definitely worth a shot as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe faces the Rams in Week 5. St. Louis ranks 19th vs. the pass this season and has allowed three touchdowns to tight ends.
Analysis: The Vikings will surely be relying on Adrian Peterson against the poor Rams rush defense on Sunday, but Brett Favre always looks his TE's way in the red zone and Shiancoe has two touchdowns in his last three games. Start him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in deeper leagues.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught a 1-yard TD pass from Brett Favre in the 1st quarter of Week 4 on Monday night against the Packers. It was the first score of the game for either team. He finished with three grabs for 18 yards.
Analysis: The Vikings' No. 1 TE now has nine receptions on the season for 67 yards and two touchdowns. He is quickly becoming Favre's top option near the goal line. Shiancoe won't overwhelm you with Fantasy stats but as long as he's getting looks near the end zone, he'll have plenty of value. Treat him as a high-end No. 2 or low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 5 at lowly St. Louis.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe will face a division opponent in Week 4 against Green Bay. In two games against the Packers last season, Shiancoe caught six passes for only 25 yards. One of those six grabs, however, went for a touchdown.
Analysis: The Packers held Rams tight end Randy McMichael to two catches for 24 yards in Week 3. They have not allowed more than two catches to a tight end this season in any of their three games. We consider Shiancoe a low-end tight end for Week 4 as he could leave you with very little if he does not get into the end zone.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught just two passes for 22 yards in the team's Week 3 win over the 49ers. He was targeted six times.
Analysis: Shiancoe has just six catches on the season and isn't catching as many passes as we initially hoped. Consider him a decent option in Week 4 since the Packers allowed two touchdowns to Rams tight ends in Week 3, but try to find a better alternative first since he's not going to rack up the receptions.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has four catches this season in two games and is coming off a Week 2 performance that saw him make his first touchdown grab of the year at Detroit. Shiancoe only caught the one pass in that game for 1 yard. The Vikings host San Francisco in Week 3's game and the last time he faced the 49ers came in San Francisco back in 2007 when he caught two passes for 11 yards.
Analysis: San Francisco has been fairly poor against the pass this season but we still doubt Shiancoe will be able to find the end zone against them. Shiancoe proved in 2008 he could be a viable pass-catching threat with a career-high seven touchdowns. Still, since he is not always filling the stat sheet with catches, he remains more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE for Week 3.
News: The Vikings got on the board in Week 2 against the Lions as QB Brett Favre found TE Visanthe Shiancoe at the back of the end zone for a 1-yard touchdown in the second quarter. While Shiancoe was targeted four times in the game, the touchdown catch was his only reception.
Analysis: Favre has a history of targeting his tight ends in the red zone, so that definitely spells good news for Shiancoe, who has four catches in two games. Shiancoe proved in 2008 he could be a viable pass-catching threat with a career-high seven touchdowns. Still, since he is not always filling the stat sheet with catches, he remains more of a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE. The Vikings play the 49ers in Week 3.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe only tallied 26 yards on three catches in Week 1, but he will try to improve in Week 2 against the division-rival Lions in Week 2. Shiancoe only has seven catches in four games for Minnesota against Detroit, but he caught five passes and a touchdown in their Week 14 meeting last season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has solid outings now and again, but disappoints more often than not. Hopefully it’s just taking him a little time to get used to Brett Favre, who has always liked to throw to his TEs. Continue to view Shiancoe as a low-end No. 1 TE for now, but one with potential to turn into more.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught three passes for 26 yards in Week 1 at Cleveland. Shiancoe was second on the team in receiving yards with just 26 yards as Brett Favre threw for just 110 yards in his official Vikings debut.
Analysis: Historically, Favre has favored his tight ends throughout his career and the Vikings will likely get much more effective in the passing game as the season goes on. Despite this mediocre start, consider Shiancoe a solid tight end option for Week 2 in a favorable matchup against a Lions team that allowed six touchdown passes in Week 1.
News: The St. Paul Pioneer Press reports Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe knows Brett Favre's history is working in his favor. "He likes to throw to his tight end," said Shiancoe. "He's got a track record of that." In his 17 seasons as an NFL starter, Favre has helped three tight ends make seven Pro Bowl rosters. In addition, Favre's top tight end has averaged 39 catches and almost five touchdowns each season. "He really feeds the tight end the ball," Shiancoe said, "so I'm going to do everything I can to get open and make huge plays."
Analysis: Shiancoe had a quiet debut season with the Vikings in 2007 (27 catches, 323 yards, one touchdown) after signing a five-year, $18.2 million contract the previous offseason. But he fulfilled the Vikings' expectations last season, when he caught 42 passes for 596 yards and seven TDs. The Vikings expect Shiancoe to be more effective this year with the addition of Favre. We like Shiancoe as a low-end No. 1 option heading into Week 1 at Cleveland.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 30 yards on Monday night in a win over Houston. Shiancoe may have only caught two Brett Favre passes in the game but he was targeted a few other times by the new QB.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a TE we like a lot and should be considered a sleeper this year. He is a good source of touchdowns (he quietly had seven last season) and should see single coverage very easily on every play. With Favre throwing him passes, that should equate to a very solid season. Consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: With the arrival of Brett Favre in Minnesota, one Vikings player who should enjoy a bump in passing stats is tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. Favre has always leaned on his tight end on the field, making the likes of Mark Chmura, Bubba Franks, Donald Lee and most recently Dustin Keller relevant Fantasy options.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a TE we like a lot and should be considered a sleeper this year. He is a good source of touchdowns (he quietly had seven last season) and should see single coverage very easily on every play. With Favre throwing him passes, that should equate to a very solid season. Consider Shiancoe a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE worth a late-round pick in drafts.
News: The Pioneer Press reports Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe didn't take any time off after the season, hoping to ride the momentum of his breakout 2008. "I just want to build on to my game, add some bricks to my building," Shiancoe said Thursday. "I want to be the best TE in the NFL. The best ever." Shiancoe has been working out the entire offseason and comes to minicamp at 6-foot-4, 240 pounds. He stays in shape by running with the receivers. "I'm trying to do something this season," he said. "I want to be a force on this offense, and doing my part."
Analysis: Shiancoe is a TE we like a lot and should be considered a sleeper this year. He's worth a late-round pick in all seasonal leagues and should do well running over the middle with Bernard Berrian, Sidney Rice and Percy Harvin handling the outside. Shiancoe is a good source of touchdowns and would make a quality addition to any Fantasy team, especially if Sage Rosenfels can play well as the Vikings new starting QB.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had only one catch for seven yards in Sunday's playoff loss to the visiting Eagles. Since catching seven passes for 136 yards Week 16 against the Falcons, He has a total of three catches for 21 yards in two games.
Analysis: Shiancoe had a few big games this season and emerged as a decent target in the red zone. He'll likely never play a big enough role on offense to rank among Fantasy's elite tight ends, but he looks like a decent low-end No. 1 option entering next season.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had a season-high seven catches for a career-high 136 yards Week 16 against the Falcons. He had touchdown receptions of 17 and 21 yards.
Analysis: Shiancoe has generally performed better with Tarvaris Jackson under center than with Gus Frerotte under center this season, and he'll most likely have Jackson throwing him the ball again Week 17 against the Giants. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught just one pass for eight yards in Week 15 at Arizona. He was only thrown to one time in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe had five catches for 65 yards and a touchdown in Week 14 against the Lions, but was not thrown to barely at all in Week 15. This is why Fantasy owners should not consider him a reliable Fantasy tight end for a very important Fantasy scoring period in Week 16. He offers no guarantees and is a very risky play for such a critical week. The Vikings play Atlanta in Week 16.
News: With starting QB Gus Frerotte out with injury, Tarvaris Jackson came on in the second half in Week 14's win over the Lions and completed an 11-yard pass to Visanthe Shiancoe to put Minnesota ahead 17-13 early in the fourth quarter. Shiancoe caught five balls for 65 yards to lead the Vikings in both numbers.
Analysis: Shiancoe had his best game in six weeks for the Vikings and looked good with Jackson throwing him passes. We aren't sure yet who gets the snaps in Week 15 at Arizona but either way, Shiancoe will be a No. 2 option.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had one catch for 20 yards Sunday against Chicago.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a No. 2 Fantasy TE and should only be started if needed in Week 14 at Detroit.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught three passes for 60 yards in a Week 12 win at Jacksonville. Minnesota had 120 yards passing in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe is one of Gus Frerotte's favorite targets, but that really isn't saying much. He should remain a high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 13 vs. Chicago.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 41 yards in a Week 11 loss to the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Shiancoe isn't much of a yardage or catch hog, but he is a nice red zone target and has three touchdowns in his last five games, despite not scoring in Week 11. The Vikings play at Jacksonville in Week 12, and Shiancoe remains a decent No. 2 Fantasy TE option for use in an emergency.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had three catches for 4 yards Sunday against Green Bay.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a No. 2 Fantasy TE and should not be used in Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught a 25-yard touchdown pass in Week 9 against Houston. He has a touchdown in consecutive weeks for the first time all season.
Analysis: Shiancoe has four touchdowns this season, but has been very erratic with his outputs. The fact he is a consistent target in the red zone, though, makes him worth using in leagues of 12-plus teams. The Vikings play Green Bay in Week 10.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught four passes for 68 yards and a touchdown against the Bears in Week 7. Shiancoe connected with QB Gus Frerotte in the 1st quarter on a 24-yard TD pass.
Analysis: Shiancoe has emerged as a viable TE option in a thin crop. He's got three touchdowns on the season and will get you a few catches per game. He's still a low-end option, but if you need one, he should be a decent bye-week replacement. Of course, the Vikings have their bye in Week 8, so you shouldn't use him next week.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught one pass for 10 yards in Week 6 vs. Detroit. He was only thrown at once time in the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe is not a pass-catching tight end for the most part and despite his role as a starter does not warrant much attention in Fantasy. He's a low-end bye week replacement option for Week 7 at Chicago.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe has 12 receptions for 145 yards and two touchdowns thus far this season after a Week 5 in which he caught two balls for 16 yards and a score in New Orleans. Shiancoe has emerged as the Vikings tight end this season as they get set to host the hapless Lions in Week 6.
Analysis: The Lions have one of the leagues worst defenses, period. That automatically makes Shiancoe viable in most Fantasy leagues at a thin position. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy TE and start him if your main guy is in a bye this week.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was on the right end of a 4-yard pass from RB Chester Taylor on a run-pass option play Week 5 against the Saints and it resulted in Shiancoe's second touchdown of the season. He finished with two catches for 16 yards and has two touchdowns in his last three games.
Analysis: Shiancoe has two or fewer catches in three of five games this season, so it's not like he is a must-have Fantasy TE. However, he has been getting more involved in the passing game since Gus Frerotte became QB. Consider Shiancoe a No. 2 Fantasy TE Week 6 against the Lions. He had one catch for seven yards in two games against the Lions last season.
News: Minnesota TE Visanthe Shiancoe is averaging just over 32 yards receiving per game this season and is coming off his best week with 47 yards against the Titans. The Vikings face one of the league's worst pass defenses in Week 5 on Monday night against the Saints.
Analysis: Shiancoe should certainly make a few grabs in Week 5 and could even find the end zone. Not normally recommended in Fantasy, Shiancoe moves up to a No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 5 in New Orleans. Still, we only suggest you consider picking him up and starting him if your other options are on a bye.
News: Notable receiving stats for Vikings players in their Week 4 loss at Tennessee include TE Visanthe Shiancoe (47 yards on four catches), WR Aundrae Allison (23 yards on two catches), TE Jim Kleinsasser (15-yard catch), FB Naufahu Tahi (9 yards on two catches) and WR Sidney Rice (6-yard catch).
Analysis: Of these players, only Rice warrants Fantasy consideration, and he was the worst of the bunch. He's a decent reserve Fantasy receiver, but the reality is that the Vikings' pass game as a whole is a disappointment, and they could be going with Tarvaris Jackson under center next week after starter Gus Frerotte left with an injury at the Titans. The Vikings play at the Saints in Week 5.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had two catches for 38 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Carolina.
Analysis: Shiancoe played well in his first game with new QB Gus Frerotte. Look for Shiancoe to continue to improve, and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 4 at Tennessee.
News: Vikings TE Visantha Shiancoe had one catch for 23 yards Sunday against the Colts.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a low-end Fantasy TE and should not be used in Week 3 against Carolina. He needs to be more productive before you can count on him on a regular basis.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had three catches for 21 yards during a Week 1 loss to the Packers. Shiancoe's longest reception went for 9 yards and he was targeted seven times by QB Tarvaris Jackson.
Analysis: Jackson spent a lot of time throwing the ball to Shiancoe and backup TE Garrett Mills, who led the team with 49 receiving yards. The tight end is a good safety valve for a developing quarterback and Jackson is expected to throw Shiancoe's way in 2008. However, he still remains nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 2 against the Packers.
News: For all the emotion and energy that emerges on NFL fields, the league has a cold, scripted side that can lead to drudgery. Visanthe Shiancoe did what he could last season to find the creative outlets he needed to maintain mental health. He needed the escape. It was a rough year. "It keeps you sane, man. I'm telling you, if you just work and work and work and you don't play, man, you would go nuts," the Minnesota Vikings tight end said. "And the next thing you know, one day you're just going to go, 'Aaaarrrggghhh."'
Analysis: Fans often made a similar noise last season toward Shiancoe, who signed a five-year contract worth as much as $18.5 million -- including $7 million guaranteed -- and caught a mere 27 passes for 323 yards and one touchdown. The low production wasn't all his fault. It takes awhile to learn a new system, and the passing game struggled through three different starting quarterbacks. He dropped too many balls, though, and a couple of those came in the end zone. During practice on Monday, Shiancoe appeared to be hanging onto the ball more tightly. Has he cured himself of the problem? "Time will tell," head coach Childress said, smiling. "Time will tell." Look for Shiancoe to improve this season, but he remains a No. 2 Fantasy TE. Hopefully he is good enough to use during the bye weeks in 2008.
News: The Star-Tribune reports Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe has been a primary receiving target during the offseason workouts that have been open to the media. This hasn't always been a good thing. Coming off a disappointing first season with the Vikings, Shiancoe dropped at least three short and catchable passes during a practice late last month that was part of Organized Team Activities. It was reminiscent of the struggles Shiancoe had last spring after joining the team as a free agent from the New York Giants. But Shiancoe looked like a different player during the Vikings' three-day (four practices) minicamp that ended Sunday with a single session. He not only didn't drop any easy passes, but he also made several nice grabs. This included three acrobatic receptions in Friday's practice and two more nice ones during red-zone drills Sunday.
Analysis: Shiancoe, according to coach Brad Childress, took it upon himself to lose some weight this offseason in an attempt to become more effective. But Childress said the biggest reason that Shiancoe should be improved is familiarity with the system. "When you're flowing, you can't be thinking about what you're doing," Childress said. "The game's being played. I say this all the time on the other side of the ball, and where are you going in reaction to what they're doing to you." Look for Shiancoe to improve this season, but he remains a No. 2 Fantasy TE. Hopefully he is good enough to use during the bye weeks in 2008.
News: Signed in the offseason to provide a boost in production from the tight end position, Visanthe Shiancoe caught 27 passes for 323 yards (12.0 avg.) and a touchdown. The reception and yardage totals were career-highs.
Analysis: Shiancoe should continue to develop as a pass-receiving tight end, but Fantasy owners shouldn't bother to count on him as anything more than a low-end No. 2 TE option. Keep him out of 2008 draft plans unless your league is super deep.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught four passes for 20 yards during a Week 16 loss to the Redskins. Unfortunately, he coughed up a fumble on one of his receptions which was recovered by the Redskins.
Analysis: Shiancoe rebounded with four catches Week 16 after being shut out Week 15 for the fourth time this season. Shiancoe is not a vital part of the Vikings' passing game and is used more for his blocking prowess. He has little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 17 against the Broncos.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe didn't record a reception Week 15 against the Bears.
Analysis: Shiancoe hasn't contributed much in recent weeks with QB Tarvaris Jackson back at the helm for the Vikings. Leave him on waivers for Week 16 against the Redskins.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 11 yards during a Week 14 win against the 49ers. His longest reception went for nine yards. It was the sixth straight game that Shiancoe was held to two or fewer catches.
Analysis: Shiancoe had much better stat lines earlier in the season and really did well when Kelly Holcomb was the quarterback. He has since becoming more of a pass blocker than catcher as the season progresses. He has little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 15 against the Bears.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had one catch for 7 yards Sunday at Detroit.
Analysis: Shiancoe is a low-end TE and should not be used in Week 14 at San Francisco. He dropped a touchdown from RB Chester Taylor after Taylor hit him wide open in the end zone with a pass.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe made one catch for 13 yards in Week 12 at the N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Shiancoe is part of a very poor pass offense and doesn't see enough regular pass attempts go his way to use in Fantasy leagues for Week 13 when the Vikings host Detroit.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had two catches for 94 yards vs. Oakland in Week 11. Seventy-nine of them came on a trick play at the beginning of the game.
Analysis: Shiancoe does not produce enough stats on a regular basis to warrant use in Fantasy play. Keep him off rosters when the Vikings play at the Giants in Week 12.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was held to one seven-yard grab in Minnesota's 34-0 loss to the Packers in Week 10.
Analysis: The Packers came into Week 10 having some trouble covering TEs, but the Vikings pass offense was so awful against Green Bay that Shiancoe only got one catch in a 34-0 rout. Still, the position is so weak that Shiancoe should be a No. 2 Fantasy TE in Week 11 against the Raiders.
News: Coming off his best game of the season, a 5-50, TD effort in Week 8, Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe was held to two catches for 14 yards in Minnesota's 35-17 win over the Chargers in Week 9.
Analysis: Shiancoe is an occasional target in the Vikings passing game, but doesn't get enough targets to be considered anything more than a No. 2 TE in all Fantasy formats in Week 10 against the Colts.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe is coming off of his best game of the season -- five catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. It was his first game with a catch this month; he recorded no catches in Weeks 6 or 7. This week, he and the Vikings host the Chargers, who boast a strong run defense and will try to force Minnesota to throw the football.
Analysis: Shiancoe might be a target for Tarvaris Jackson in Week 9, but because his play has been too inconsistent this season, he's not recommended as anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE for this week's action.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught five passes for 50 yards with a touchdown, his first in purple, in Week 8 vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: Shiancoe was expected to be a bigger part of the Minnesota passing game, but wasn't until this week. Keep him seated as a backup Fantasy TE vs. San Diego in Week 9 (he'd be an acceptable bye-week replacement pick).
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (groin) is listed as questionable for Week 8 vs. Philadelphia. He went through a full practice Friday after limited reps on Wednesday and Thursday. Shiancoe has failed to record a reception the last two weeks and has managed that feat three times in six games.
Analysis: Shiancoe was a favorite target of Kelly Holcomb when he was under center for the injured Tarvaris Jackson. But the last two weeks Jackson has been quarterbacking and Shiancoe's numbers have suffered. Holcomb might start against the Eagles with Jackson nursing a broken finger, but Shiancoe is nothing more than a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement. He is expected to face the Eagles.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (groin) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 8 vs. Philadelphia. Shiancoe has failed to record a reception the last two weeks and has managed that feat three times in six games.
Analysis: Shiancoe was a favorite target of Kelly Holcomb when he was under center for the injured Tarvaris Jackson. But the last two weeks Jackson has been quarterbacking and Shiancoe's numbers have suffered. Holcomb might start against the Eagles with Jackson nursing a broken finger, but Shiancoe is nothing more than a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement. Continue to track his progress.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had no catches Sunday against Dallas.
Analysis: The entire Vikings passing game was awful against the Cowboys. Don't expect Shiancoe to do much on a weekly basis in this offense.
News: Notable Vikings players from Week 4 vs. Green Bay include: FB/TE Jeff Dugan (3-yard rush, 13-yard catch, fumble), WR Troy Williamson (23 receiving yards), TE Visanthe Shiancoe (38 yards receiving) and FB Tony Richardson (9-yard catch).
Analysis: None of these players produce enough stats on a regular basis to use in Fantasy Football. The Vikings are on bye in Week 5 but play at Chicago in Week 6.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe hauled in three passes for 51 yards -- a team high -- during a Week 3 loss to the Chiefs. His longest gain went for 25 yards. Shiancoe thought he had a 8-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter from RB Mewelde Moore on a halfback pass, but the referees ruled it an incompletion on the field and upheld the call after the review.
Analysis: Head coach Brad Childress feels Shiancoe is a player with talent that he could develop. It was evident Week 3 against the Chiefs. However, Shiancoe is still nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Packers.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 18 yards Week 1 against Atlanta.
Analysis: Head coach Brad Childress feels Shiancoe is a player with talent that he could develop. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy TE for sure, but he may develop into more before season's end. Still, you probably have better options for Week 2 at Detroit.
News: Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe (quad) was able to play during Friday's preseason game against the Rams. He had just one catch for seven yards.
Analysis: Head coach Brad Childress feels Shiancoe is a player with talent that he could develop. He's done this before with players like Brian Westbrook and L.J. Smith in Philadelphia, which you should consider when looking at Shiancoe. He's a No. 2 Fantasy TE, to be sure, but he may wind up being the second-most reliable receiving option in Minnesota. Think sleeper -- and think of him when you need to fill a roster spot either very late in drafts or off the waiver wire once the season starts.
News: In an interview on Sirius Satellite Radio, Vikings coach Brad Childress said that TE Visanthe Shiancoe suffered a quad contusion on Sunday but was back at practice on Monday. Shiancoe is expected to be the receiving tight end for the Vikes this year.
Analysis: Childress added that part of his job was finding talented players, and that he felt Shiancoe was a player with talent that he could develop. He's done this before with players like Brian Westbrook and L.J. Smith in Philadelphia, which you should consider when looking at Shiancoe. He's a No. 2 Fantasy TE, to be sure, but he may wind up being the second-most reliable receiving option in Minnesota. Think sleeper -- and think of him when you need to fill a roster spot either very late in drafts or off the waiver wire once the season starts.
News: The Minnesota Vikings agreed to terms with tight end Visanthe Shiancoe. Shiancoe spent the past four years as a backup for the New York Giants. He played in all 64 games, but caught only 35 passes for 253 yards and three touchdowns. "They're looking for a versatile tight end," Shiancoe said. "I feel like that's what I can bring to the table. I can catch and I can block. With this offense and this quarterback and the personnel they have here, I'm really excited to showcase what I can do."
Analysis: Shiancoe was regarded as more of a blocking tight end than a receiving tight end, but the Vikes might give him a shot to catch some passes. In college, he caught 52 balls for 1,001 yards in 30 games, but the Giants never got him past 12 receptions in a season. Consider him a very low-end sleeper worth at best a final-round flier pick in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: The New York Daily News reports that backup TE Visanthe Shiancoe is not expected to be re-signed by the Giants, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Analysis: Shiancoe caught 12 passes for 81 yards in 2006. Shiancoe is regarded as more of a blocking tight end than a receiving tight end. He shouldn't be considered for Fantasy play in 2007.
News: Giants backup TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught 12 passes for 81 yards in 2006. Shiancoe is regarded as more of a blocking tight end than a receiving tight end.
Analysis: Shiancoe shouldn't be considered for Fantasy play in 2007.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe had one catch for eight yards in a Week 17 win over the Redskins.
Analysis: Shiancoe is used as more of a blocker in the Giants scheme and is someone to ignore on Draft Day 2007.
News: Giants backup QB Jared Lorenzen, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, RB James Sims and WR David Tyree did not record an offensive stat in Week 16 vs. New Orleans.
Analysis: None of these players should be used in Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for eight yards in Week 15 vs. Philadelphia, but he lost an important fumble in the fourth quarter that led to a score for the Eagles.
Analysis: The lightly used tight end is not a recommended Fantasy option at this point. Ignore him.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught one pass for nine yards in Week 14 at Carolina.
Analysis: He's not worth using in Fantasy leagues for Week 15 vs. Philadelphia.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught one pass for seven yards in Week 13 vs. Dallas.
Analysis: Shiancoe is the team's No. 2 TE and is not a regular part of the offense. Ignore him in Fantasy leagues for now.
News: Giants backup QB Jared Lorenzen, FB Jim Finn, RB/KR Chad Morton, RB/KR Derrick Ward, TE Visanthe Shiancoe and WR David Tyree did not record any offensive stats in Week 13 vs. Dallas.
Analysis: None of these players should be in your Fantasy lineup until further notice.
News: Giants backup QB Jared Lorenzen, WR Mike Jennings, RB Jim Finn, RB/KR Chad Morton, RB Derrick Ward, and TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not record an offensive statistic in Week 12 at Tennesse.
Analysis: None of these players should be in your Fantasy lineup or roster until further notice.
News: Backup QB Jared Lorenzen, FB Jim Finn, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, WR Mike Jennings, RB/KR Chad Morton and RB Derrick Ward were able to play in Week 11 at the Jaguars but they did not record any offensive statistics.
Analysis: None of the players are worth using in Week 12 at Tennessee.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe had a pair of receptions for four yards in Week 10 against the Bears.
Analysis: Shiancoe is not a recommended Fantasy option in any league. The Giants play at Jacksonville in Week 11.
News: Giants RB/KR Chad Morton, RB Derrick Ward, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, WR David Tyree and backup QB Jared Lorenzen did not record any stats in Week 9 vs. Houston.
Analysis: None of these players should be considered for Week 10 vs. Chicago.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught one pass for 13 yards in Week 8 vs. Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Shiancoe continues to be the No. 2 TE in New York behind Jeremy Shockey. Don't count on him for Fantasy play.
News: FB Jim Finn, WR Mike Jennings, RB/KR Chad Morton, TE Visanthe Shiancoe and WR David Tyree all played in Week 7 at Dallas, but they did not record any offensive statistics.
Analysis: Backup QB Jared Lorenzen also dressed for the game, but he did not get into the game. None of the players here have any Fantasy value heading into Week 8 against the Buccaneers.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe did not record an offensive stat in Week 6 at Atlanta.
Analysis: As long as Jeremy Shockey is healthy, which he is for the moment, Shiancoe is obsolete. In fact, even if Shockey were to miss a game, we'd find it hard to recommend him.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught two passes for 18 yards in Week 5 vs. Washington. Fellow TE Jeremy Shockey only had one catch for 13 yards.
Analysis: Don't read too much into that stat. Consider Shiancoe only if Shockey is unable to play in any given week. Even then, he wouldn't be a great option.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe caught one pass for five yards in Week 3 at Seattle.
Analysis: Shiancoe is more of a blocking TE for the Giants. Ignore him in all formats.
News: Giants TE Jeremy Shockey (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 3 at Seattle. He did not practice Wednesday.
Analysis: If Shockey doesn't play that means Visanthe Shiancoe will start in his place. However, if that happens don't look for him to post the same numbers as Shockey would have. Shiancoe is more of a blocking TE for the Giants and hasn't established the same on-field rapport with QB Eli Manning like Shockey.
News: Giants TE Visanthe Shiancoe made one catch for nine yards in Week 2 vs. Phildelphia.
Analysis: Shiancoe is the team's No. 2 TE and is not worthy of a roster spot at the moment. Ignore him in all formats for Week 3 at Seattle.
News: TE Visanthe Shiancoe, WR Tim Carter, RB Jim Finn WR David Tyree and QB Jared Lorenzen were active but did not accumulate any Fantasy statistic in Week 1 against the Colts.
Analysis: None of these players are expected to have any value in Week 2 at Philadelphia.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe (knee) was able to play in Friday's preseason game vs. the N.Y. Jets and he finished with two catches for 35 yards. He led the Giants in receiving yards.
Analysis: The reserve tight end is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams if owners want insurance for Jeremy Shockey.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe is feverishly fending off the charge of veteran TE Boo Williams, who was out of the game last season with a knee injury he claimed New Orleans "overstated." At the moment there is doubt as to the identity of the backup to Jeremy Shockey.
Analysis: The reserve tight end is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams if owners want insurance for Jeremy Shockey.
News: Giants.com reports Visanthe Shiancoe (knee) missed his second consecutive day of practice on Sunday morning.
Analysis: The knee injury is not considered serious. The reserve tight end is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams if owners want insurance for Jeremy Shockey.
News: Giants.com is reporting Shiancoe was unable to practice on Saturday due to a knee injury.
Analysis: The knee injury is not considered serious. The reserve tight end is only worth a look in larger Fantasy leagues of 14 or more teams if owners want insurance for Jeremy Shockey.
News: The Bergen Record reports that TE Visanthe Shiancoe has signed his one-year tender offer from the Giants. He was a restricted free agent.
Analysis: Shiancoe is the Giants' No. 2 tight end behind Jeremy Shockey. He only had eight catches in 2005 and isn't expected to see an increased role in the offense this season. Ignore him in Fantasy drafts.
News: According to reports, the New York Giants have tendered one-year offers to restricted free agents David Tyree, Willie Ponder, Visanthe Shiancoe, Frank Walker and Kenderick Allen.
Analysis: Shiancoe recorded eight receptions for 91 yards last season as the team's No. 2 tight end.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe recorded eight receptions for 91 yards this season as the No. 2 tight end with the N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Shiancoe will have no value in 2006 drafts.
News: Giants.com reports Jeremy Shockey (ankle) has been downgraded to out for Week 17.
Analysis: Look for Visanthe Shiancoe to see more work against Oakland in Shockey's absence.
News: According to the Daily News, Jeremy Shockey (ankle, questionable) is "likely out" for Week 17. He missed practice again on Thursday.
Analysis: Look for Visanthe Shiancoe to see more work against Oakland in Shockey's expected absence.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe didn't record an offensive statistic in Sunday's 17-10 win over the Dallas Cowboys.
Analysis: Shiancoe has no value in Fantasy Football leagues.
News: Giants.com reported that No. 2 tight end Visanthe Shiancoe has been impressing head coach Tom Coughlin this offseason. "I don't think a day went by when he didn't start the day early in the weight room and then finish in the weight room again when the work was done. And that was very encouraging."
Analysis: Shiancoe is the backup to Jeremy Shockey and will probably compete with Marcellus Rivers for the No. 2 TE job. Despite his size, he will not help your Fantasy team.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe, starting in Week 15 at New Orleans due to injuries to Marcellus Rivers (knee) and Jeremy Shockey (knee), had three receptions for 19 yards and his first-career touchdown.
Analysis: Shiancoe will likely start again in Week 16 at Dallas if Rivers and Shockey are unavailable, but he has no Fantasy appeal.
News: Visanthe Shiancoe started Week 15 at New Orleans due to injuries to Marcellus Rivers (knee) and Jeremy Shockey (knee).
Analysis: Shiancoe is not a useful Fantasy player.
News: With Marcellus Rivers (knee) out at least two weeks, Visanthe Shiancoe might start in Week 14 against the Redskins.
Analysis: Jeremy Shockey (knee) was unable to return in Week 13. If he cannot play against Washington, Shiancoe or Darnell Dinkins will make their first-career start.
