News: Pittsburgh quarterback Byron Leftwich was ruled out for Week 13 at Baltimore as he continues to deal with a ribs injury. Leftwich has been unable to practice over the past two weeks and will join Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder) on the sideline while Charlie Batch starts Sunday's game.
Analysis: Leftwich started Week 11 in place of Roethlisberger, but was unable to finish the game unscathed and was banged up with shoulder and ribs injuries. He is not a reliable Fantasy option when healthy and should be left on waivers in all formats at this point in the season.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin updated his quarterback situation Tuesday. He said starter Ben Roethlisberger, who sat out Week 11 with shoulder and rib injuries, is making positive progress, but he is considered doubtful to play Week 12 at Cleveland. Tomlin said Byron Leftwich, who started Week 11 in place of Roethlisberger, is out Sunday because of multiple rib fractures. The Steelers are expected to sign either Brian Hoyer or Mike Kafka, who both worked out Tuesday, but Charlie Batch is expected to start Sunday against the Browns. "We have a great deal of confidence in Charlie," Tomlin said.
Analysis: The early reports are that Roethlisberger might have a chance to return Week 13 at the earliest, so it's not a surprise he is considered doubtful Week 12. It seems the Steelers are moving forward with Batch this week. Fantasy owners should only start Batch in a pinch. Quarterbacks are averaging 264.5 passing yards and 19.4 Fantasy points per week against Cleveland. However, quarterbacks have managed just two passing touchdowns in the last four games against Cleveland. Batch made a start for Pittsburgh in 2011, completing 15 of 22 passes for 208 yards and one interception in a 27-0 win vs. St. Louis. He has plenty of NFL experience, but Batch hasn't been a regular starter since the 2001 season. He has made just seven starts since the 2002 season.
News: CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports sources said Steelers quarterback Byron Leftwich is expected to be out an extended period after injuries he sustained Week 11 vs. Baltimore. While the timetable is still being examined, the Steelers are expected to work out quarterbacks this week. ESPN reports Leftwich fractured two ribs Sunday. La Canfora reports Leftwich also aggravated a shoulder injury Sunday. Leftwich was already replacing the injured Ben Roethlisberger, who is week-to-week with shoulder and rib injuries. Sources said Roethlisberger could be back Week 12 at Cleveland, but Week 13 is more likely. Charlie Batch is the only healthy quarterback on the Steelers' roster and might have to start Week 12.
Analysis: Leftwich didn't exactly play inspired football during a 13-10 loss Sunday. You could make the excuse he wasn't healthy, but even if he didn't sustain any injuries, he probably wouldn't have had a much-better performance. Leftwich completed just 46.2 percent of his passes (18 of 39) for 201 yards and one interception. He did have a rushing touchdown, but it wasn't a great Fantasy performance. Even if Leftwich suited up Week 12, he wouldn't be a recommended Fantasy option as there are no more byes. Feel free to cut Leftwich if you need the roster spot.
News: In his first start in three years, Steelers quarterback Byron Leftwich had a great start to Sunday's contest against the Ravens in Week 11, but then fizzled out. Leftwich, who started in place of an injured Ben Roethlisberger, broke out of the gates with a career-high 31-yard run for a touchdown to give the Steelers an early lead. He failed to get back in the end zone again and finished with 162 yards on 20 for 32 passing in a 13-10 defeat. Leftwich was sacked three times, including a rough blindside hit from James Ihedigbo, which injured his right rib area. He did return for the team's final drive despite dealing with some pain.
Analysis: It's not easy to knock Leftwich out of the game, which is why he battled through some pain for most of the final half. He'll likely land on the injury report next week with a rib injury and if he can't play, then Charlie Batch could potentially start. It would be another big blow to a Pittsburgh team that has been plagued by injuries all season long. At this point, it doesn't seem like Roethlisber will be healthy enough to return in Week 12 at Cleveland. The Browns are allowing 247.9 passing yards per game, which ranks 22nd in the league. Leftwich does not have a strong arm and is too risky to trust, so consider him as an inadvisable start heading into Week 12.
News: Steelers quarterback Byron Leftwich said the team will not make major changes to the game plan for Week 11 vs. Baltimore in the wake of Ben Roethlisberger's injuries, but he said the offense will look a little different with him under center. "We came in. We saw the game plan. We might do things different, because let's just be honest, I'm not going to run around and make two or three guys miss, then roll all the way to the left and find Mike Wallace in the back of the end zone," Leftwich said, per the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "I'm not capable of doing that. But what I can do is get the ball in the right guy's hands and just be myself. They're not asking me to do anything but be myself, and that's what I'll do."
Analysis: Leftwich is 24-25 as a starter in his career. He also owns a 58.2 percent completion rate, averages 175.1 passing yards per game and has thrown 58 touchdowns to 41 interceptions in 59 games. Perhaps Leftwich shouldn't be himself Sunday, then the results could be a little better for Fantasy owners. Since leaving Jacksonville after the 2006 season, Leftwich has started five games, throwing multiple touchdowns in one of them and over 250 yards in two of them. With the Steelers' receiving corps likely without receiver Antonio Brown for a second week and the Ravens likely to put a lot of pressure on Leftwich, this is a good week to look for pretty much any other quarterback. The Ravens pass defense is yielding 270.2 passing yards and 12.9 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is the fourth-lowest average in the NFL.
News: Injured Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will not play against the Ravens in Week 11 because of a separated shoulder, the team announced Wednesday. That means Byron Leftwich will start in his place against a Ravens pass defense that is yielding 270.2 passing yards and 12.9 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, the fourth-lowest average in the NFL.
Analysis: Since leaving Jacksonville Leftwich has started five games, throwing multiple touchdowns in one of them and over 250 yards in two of them. With the Steelers' receiving corps potentially without receiver Antonio Brown for a second week and the Ravens likely to put a lot of pressure on Leftwich, this is a good week to look for pretty much any other quarterback that a Steelers passer. The likes of Ryan Fitzpatrick, Nick Foles and even road-weary Joe Flacco are more appealing choices than Leftwich.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is still under evaluation after getting injured Monday against the Chiefs, but he did divulge Roethlisberger suffered an SC sprain, which makes his status for Week 11 vs. Baltimore questionable. Tomlin said Roethlisberger could play even if he doesn't practice. "I've done that in the past," Tomlin said. However, CBSSports.com NFL Insider Mike Freeman reports Steelers officials don't expect Roethlisberger back until Week 12. Tomlin added backup Byron Leftwich will take the snaps as the first-team quarterback this week and will start Sunday against the Ravens if Roethlisberger is unavailable.
Analysis: Leftwich came off the bench Monday to replace the injured Roethlisberger. Unfortunately, he completed just 7 of 14 passes for 73 yards and no touchdowns. Although, he was asked to come off the bench cold. Perhaps with a full week of practice reps, he can be a little more efficient. It does appear Leftwich is probably on track to start Week 11 unless Roethlisberger make a miraculous recovery. The Ravens are yielding 270.2 passing yards and 12.9 Fantasy points per week to quarterbacks, which is the fourth-lowest average in the NFL. Leftwich is more of a desperation Fantasy play Week 11.
News: With Ben Roethlisberger knocked out of the game with a shoulder injury, backup quarterback Byron Leftwich was forced into action in Week 10 against the Chiefs. Leftwich, who hasn't taken a snap in a regular season game since 2010, completed seven of his 14 pass attempts for 73 yards in the 16-13 overtime win. He did not thrown a touchdown or interception and was able to lead the Steelers to six points once he entered the game.
Analysis: Leftwich looked a bit rusty Monday night, which is understandable after not seeing the field in over a year. However, the veteran will now have to get himself up to speed rather quickly he could be asked to start next week with Big Ben's status still up in the air. Obviously, Fantasy owners will have to keep an eye on how things play out moving forward. The Steelers will host the Ravens on Sunday Night Football in Week 11, so Leftwich would only be worth starting in deeper formats as a desperation option if he is under center against Baltimore.
News: The Pittsburgh Steelers have agreed to terms with veteran backup quarterback Byron Leftwich. Leftwich missed the entire 2011 season after breaking his left arm in the preseason. The 32-year-old Leftwich has thrown just seven passes since the Steelers signed him in 2010.
Analysis: If anything happens to Ben Roethlisberger, Leftwich will be the man to replace him in the Steelers' lineup. He can wait on waivers.
News: The Steelers placed QB Byron Leftwich on injured reserve on Friday. Leftwich suffered a broken arm in the Steelers’ third preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons and will miss the 2011 season.
Analysis: Leftwich suffered the injury in Saturday's preseason game at the Falcons. He was expected to be the No. 2 QB behind Ben Roethlisberger and was not worthy of owning in Fantasy even prior to the injury.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers QB Byron Leftwich underwent surgery on his broken left arm on Sunday. Leftwich is likely to miss the entire season.
Analysis: Leftwich suffered the injury in Saturday's preseason game at the Falcons. He was expected to be the No. 2 QB behind Ben Roethlisberger and was not worthy of owning in Fantasy even prior to the injury.
News: Steelers backup QB Byron Leftwich broke his left arm during Saturday's preseason game against Atlanta, coach Mike Tomlin said, meaning that Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon are the likely Nos. 2 and 3 QBs for much of this season behind starter Ben Roethlisberger. “I don’t have any additional information,” Tomlin said. “I am sure it’s going to be an extended period of time.” Leftwich completed 1 of 2 passes for 11 yards and ran one time for 6 yards before getting hurt.
Analysis: Leftwich had minimal Fantasy value prior to getting hurt. Keep an eye on his recovery, but he is not worth drafting in the majority of leagues even if he is able to play this year.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich was solid in relief of Ben Roethlisberger during Thursday's preseason win over the Eagles. He entered in the second quarter and engineered some successful drives, including a scoring campaign at the end of the half. Leftwich capped the drive with a 20-yard touchdown toss to Jerricho Cotchery to put the team up 21-0 at the break. He finished 4 of 7 in the air for 67 yards and the score.
Analysis: Leftwich is the clear-cut No. 2 QB in Pittsburgh, and he continues to prove it on the field as well. Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch are in a battle for the No. 3 QB job, and the loser may not be with the team much longer. Leftwich seems to be in a good and safe place, but that doesn't mean he's a safe Fantasy pick. Thoguh Roethlisberger is often banged-up, Leftwich is a player to be ignored on Draft Day in all formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Steelers QB Byron Leftwich will remain the No. 2 QB behind Ben Roethlisberger. The No. 3 QB battle will come down to Dennis Dixon vs. Charlie Batch.
Analysis: Leftwich would only be worth owning if something happens to Roethlisberger in terms of injury or another suspension. Since it appears like Roethlisberger will be fine, ignore Leftwich in all leagues on Draft Day.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich got some relief work in Week 17 as Pittsburgh routed the Browns. Leftwich took over for Ben Roethlisberger in the second half and completed 5 of 7 passes for 42 yards.
Analysis: Leftwich might find himself elsewhere in 2011, but he'll stick around in Pittsburgh if he's smart and the Steelers think he's a capable enough backup. Continue to ignore Leftwich in Fantasy play next season.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich, who returned to practice Wednesday after tearing his MCL earlier this month, will not start in Week 3 at Tampa Bay. Charlie Batch will get the call instead.
Analysis: Leftwich might get the starting job in Week 4 against the Ravens, but only a mad man would consider using him with that awful matchup. Once Ben Roethlisberger returns following Pittsburgh's Week 5 bye, Leftwich will return to being a backup and can continue to be ignored in Fantasy play.
News:Dennis Dixon has a torn meniscus that will require surgery, meaning that either Byron Leftwich or Charlie Batch will start for the Steelers in Week 3 at the Bucs. Leftwich has been on the shelf with a torn MCL in his knee since earlier this month, but head coach Mike Tomlin expects him to practice this week in preparation for the game against his former mates in Tampa Bay. "I'm feeling better, a whole lot better," Leftwich said. "I want to get through a whole practice. I'm going to go out there Wednesday and really push it and see how healthy I am."
Analysis: Leftwich will try to prove in practice this week that he belongs as the starting QB ahead of Charlie Batch for Sunday's game at Tampa Bay. He'd only be filling in for a couple of games while Ben Roethlisberger finishes serving his suspension though, so he will be just an emergency Fantasy option in the deepest of leagues.
News: Steelers QB Dennis Dixon has been diagnosed with a torn lateral meniscus in left knee, according to Yahoo! Sports. Dixon was injured in Week 2 at Tennessee. The injury could possibly require arthroscopic surgery to repair the damage, and could sideline him for as long as three to five weeks. The Steelers will have to turn to either Charlie Batch, who replaced Dixon at Tennessee, or Byron Leftwich to replace Dixon in Week 3 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: The Steelers re-signed Leftwich on Monday, bringing him back after the team needed his roster spot for another player before Week 2. Leftwich is working his way back from a torn MCL suffered in the Steelers' final preseason game on Sept. 2 and is no guarantee to be ready to go for Week 3. His tentative situation makes him an unappealing option to make a waiver wire claim on for Week 3. He'd only be filling in for a couple of games anyway while Ben Roethlisberger finishes serving his suspension.
News: The Steelers re-signed QB Byron Leftwich on Monday, bring him back after the team needed his roster spot for another player before Week 2. Leftwich is working his way back from a torn MCL suffered in the Steelers' final preseason game on Sept. 2.
Analysis: Leftwich is a contender to start for the Steelers when healthy. When that will be is anyone's guess, but with the Steelers expecting Ben Roethlisberger to be under center starting in Week 6, there's not much time left for Leftwich to contribute. We'll keep you posted on the Steelers' QB situation.
News: Steelers QB Dennis Dixon left Week 2 at the Titans with a knee injury, making his second start in place of suspended starter Ben Roethlisberger. Earlier in the week, the team cut backup Byron Leftwich to help make room on the roster for Week 2, but they are expected to re-sign him prior to Week 3 at Tampa Bay and he would be a candidate to start if Dixon is unable to play. Coach Mike Tomlin said after the game that Dixon's knee will be evaluated during the week, but that early indications are that it's not a serious injury. "He could have come back in and handed the ball off to finish the game," Tomlin said.
Analysis: Dixon beat out Leftwich for the interim starter job out of the preseason. Though Charlie Batch was used in Week 2 in relief of Dixon, we would suspect Leftwich could have a leg up for a possible start against Tampa Bay if needed since he was being considered for the starting job out of the preseason. There isn't huge Fantasy upside here as the Steelers are just biding their time until Roethlisberger serves his four-game suspension. We wouldn't recommend starting Leftwich outside of the deepest of leagues that require two QBs, even if he were to get the nod.
News: Pittsburgh released veteran QB Byron Leftwich on Saturday. This move allows the Steelers to elevate an extra man from the practice squad temporarily. Leftwich is expected to return to the 53-man roster on Monday. He already is guaranteed his full salary this season.
Analysis: Leftwich injured his left knee during the final preseason game with the Steelers, but went through a full practice on Friday for the first time. Leftwich was not expected to play against Tennessee. The Steelers will go with Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch at quarterback, as they did in their opener, a 15-9 overtime win over Atlanta. When healthy, the veteran should be viewed as a Fantasy reserve QB.
News: Quarterback Byron Leftwich, who injured his left knee in the final exhibition game Sept. 2, went through a full practice for the first time Friday and is listed as probable for Week 2 against the Titans. While Leftwich's knee is improving, Dennis Dixon will make his second consecutive start in place of suspended quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Leftwich said on Thursday that his knee wasn't 100 percent and we didn't expect him to be active for Week 2. But it looks as though he might be in uniform to provide backup insurance to Dixon. Depending on how Dixon performs will dictate if Leftwich has a chance to start in Week 3 against the Bucs. Continue to view him as a Fantasy reserve.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich was limited in practice for a second straight day Thursday because of a lingering knee injury, but he says he is improving. "It's getting better," said Leftwich, who will once again watch Dennis Dixon start in Week 2 against the Titans. "There was some good things done, but at the same time it's a process. To be honest with you, the knee is far from 100 percent."
Analysis: Leftwich is shooting for a Week 3 return against the Bucs, but a starting job might not be waiting. If Dixon does well against Tennessee, he might remain under center until Ben Roethlisberger's suspension ends. Leftwich still has minimal Fantasy appeal and should be reserved until further notice.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich threw passes for the first time Wednesday since injuring his knee in the preseason, and the coaching staff was pleased. Leftwich will not be ready to play in Week 2 against theTitans but may be ready for Tampa Bay in Week 3.
Analysis: Depending on how well Dixon does in Week 2 will dictate if Leftwich has a fighting chance to start in Week 3 against Tampa Bay. Even if that were to happen, Leftwich might only make a few starts before Ben Roethlisberger (suspended) takes over the offense. Leftwich still has minimal Fantasy appeal and should be reserved until further notice.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said on Tuesday that QB Byron Leftwich (knee) could return to practice as early as Wednesday. "(He) appears to be doing a little better with his knee sprain," Tomlin said. "We are going to give him some work in a limited capacity probably tomorrow and see where we go from there."
Analysis: Leftwich won't start in Week 2, as Dennis Dixon will get another start after his winning outing in Week 1, but Leftwich could well be the No. 1 come Week 3 when Pittsburgh plays at Tampa Bay. That leaves him with a couple of games before Ben Roethlisberger comes off his suspension, at which point Leftwich's Fantasy value will go back to being very minimal.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich was held out of the season opener against the Falcons because of a knee injury. It was expected Leftwich would be inactive as he was ruled out for Week 1 on Friday.
Analysis: Dennis Dixon replaced Leftwich and the suspended Ben Roethlisberger for Week 1, and led the Steelers to a victory. However, coach Mike Tomlin wouldn't commit to Dixon for Week 2 against the Titans, so it leaves the door open for Leftwich, if he is healthy. But since Dixon did win, it seems like a long shot that Pittsburgh wouldn't go back to him. Even if Leftwich starts in Week 2, he would be nothing more than a low-end stopgap Fantasy option.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich (knee) has officially been ruled out for Week 1 against the Falcons. He did not practice all week. Charlie Batch will now back up Dennis Dixon, who is starting in the place of the injured Ben Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Leftwich probably would have been the team's starting QB had he not gotten injured in the preseason finale. Now, he won't even play due to an injury. If Dixon really performs bad while Leftwich is out, then Leftwich might get some snaps when healthy. But that is a big IF. Keep Leftwich out of active lineups for Week 1.
News: Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin said on Monday that QB Byron Leftwich will be listed as doubtful all week in practice and is unlikely to play in the season opener against Atlanta. Leftwich should be able to return in Week 2.
Analysis: With Leftwich losing out on the battle to start for suspended QB Ben Roethlisberger to Dennis Dixon, his Fantasy value wasn't going to be much in the first week anyway. Leftwich might gain value if he can grab the starter's job over the next few games but Big Ben will be back soon and we don't recommend owning Leftwich at this time.
News:Ben Roethlisberger isn't the only Steelers quarterback who might be out for four weeks. Byron Leftwich's strained left knee ligament could sideline him for most or all of the first month of the season, leaving the Steelers with only two healthy quarterbacks -- Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch -- for their Sept. 12 opener against Atlanta. Given how secretive coach Mike Tomlin was while refusing to announce a starter for any preseason game, it isn't certain when he'll disclose his starting quarterback. The Steelers don't practice again until Monday.
Analysis: Leftwich had a chance to fill in for Roethlisberger (suspension) during the first four games of the season, but now that duty will likely go to Dixon for at least a couple of weeks. Leftwich's Fantasy value was minimal before, as he was expected to split time with Dixon anyway, so he can continue to be ignored in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich has been diagnosed with a torn MCL, according to his management company. Leftwich, expected to start during Ben Roethlisberger's suspension, injured his left knee during the first half of Thursday's preseason finale against Carolina. Such an injury usually takes 4-6 weeks to recover from.
Analysis: Ironically, the length of the injury means that Leftwich would return about the time Roethlisberger will be done serving his suspension. He is officially considered out indefinitely by the team, but it would appear Fantasy owners in those deep, deep leagues where he was ready to enjoy some brief Fantasy appeal should look elsewhere. Dennis Dixon is now expected to be the starter going into the season.
News: Steelers quarterback Byron Leftwich, expected to start during Ben Roethlisberger's suspension, injured his left knee during the first half of Thursday's preseason finale against Carolina. Leftwich completed an 18-yard pass to rookie Emmanuel Sanders before being knocked off his feet as running back Mewelde Moore attempted to block safety Marcus Hudson. The play occurred with 10:25 left in the second quarter Thursday night. Leftwich was examined by team doctors on a stretcher behind the Steelers' bench, then limped into a nearby tunnel that leads to the locker room.
Analysis: The Steelers immediately ruled him out for the game, but the extent of the injury was not initially known. He looked to be in serious pain on the ground before leaving the game and his status for Week 1 should be considered questionable at this point. Dennis Dixon would likely supplant him as the starter if he can't go. Leftwich wasn't in many Fantasy owners' plans going into the season anyway, but his situation warrants monitoring in larger formats.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich didn't see any action in Sunday's preseason game at Denver until late in the third quarter, well after Ben Roethlisberger and Dennis Dixon worked with the first team. Leftwich was on the field for just two series and 11 plays before Charlie Batch relieved him in the fourth quarter. Leftwich had a rough night, completing none of his four pass attempts. His preseason completion rate dropped from 56.3 to 45 percent (9 for 20).
Analysis: The only bright spot for Leftwich on Sunday was that Dixon struggled during his time with the first team, leaving the QB competition wide open. Pittsburgh needs a starting QB at the beginning of the season as Big Ben serves out a suspension. Leftwich probably has the inside track to win the job, but he is doing a good job of playing himself out of the race. Even if he does win the job, Leftwich won't post Big Ben numbers. He will merely be a low-end stopgap Fantasy option.
News: Steelers QB Dennis Dixon is splitting reps with the first-team offense in practice, according to ESPN.com. With starter Ben Roethlisberger suspended for at least the first four games of the season, Byron Leftwich replaced him among the starters. But Dixon and Leftwich are now reportedly sharing snaps as the team is apparently still undecided as to who will be behind center in Week 1.
Analysis: Leftwich offers experience at the position, having started 49 NFL games to Dixon's two. But Dixon offers mobility, which could be beneficial considering the Steelers struggled to protect the passer in 2009. However, it should be no longer than a four-game stint for whomever wins the competition, and expect Pittsburgh to lean heavily on the running game during that stretch, limiting their Fantasy value. Consider the winner nothing more than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin indicated Monday that even though QB Byron Leftwich struggled in the preseason opener against Detroit and Dennis Dixon played well, it appears like Leftwich will remain the starter with Ben Roethlisberger (suspension) out. Tomlin said Dixon will likely be used in special packages even once Roethlisberger returns. "That's why we've continually worked on a package (of plays) solely for him not only here in training camp but back in the spring at our place," Tomlin said. But Tomlin also added not to put too much stock in Dixon's performance in the first Steelers' first preseason game. Dixon completed 6 of 7 passes for 128 yards and a touchdown. "It was a nice start, guys, and that's what it was," Tomlin said of Dixon's showing. "He was productive. Half of that production came in the fourth quarter, so we're not going to get carried away." Leftwich, meanwhile, completed just 6 of 10 passes for 43 yards.
Analysis: At this point we expect Leftwich to be the starter in Week 1 and to remain there so long as he doesn't commit many errors. But none of the Steelers' quarterbacks behind Roethlisberger have much Fantasy value. At the very best, consider the Steelers starter, whether it's Leftwich or Dixon, a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day worth a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: Steelers QB Byron Leftwich is not concerned about the problems he had with the first-team offense in Saturday's preseason opener against the Lions. Leftwich started and played well into the second quarter, but his stats were mediocre since he completed just 6 of 10 passes for 43 yards. "We weren't clicking very well," he said. "That happens in the first preseason game. Good thing we've got three more." Leftwich watched as backup QB Dennis Dixon threw for 128 yards and a touchdown, leading the Steelers to a pair of touchdown drives.
Analysis: With Ben Roethlisberger (suspension) out for the first six games of the season, Leftwich is expected to start, but his performance in the preseason, along with the play of Dixon, could open the door for Dixon to pass him on the depth chart. Continue to monitor how Leftwich and Dixon perform, but whoever starts for the Steelers should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB at best to start the season. Leftwich or Dixon are only worth drafting in deep leagues in 2010.
News: With the Steelers ruling out QB Ben Roethlisberger before their preseason game vs. the Lions on Saturday, Byron Leftwich started and played well into the second quarter. His stats didn't blow anyone away -- he completed 6 of 10 passes for 43 yards. Additionally, Leftwich saw backup QB Dennis Dixon throw for 128 yards and a touchdown, leading the Steelers to a pair of touchdown drives.
Analysis: Leftwich remains the logical choice to replace Ben Roethlisberger while he serves an NFL-mandated suspension to start the year, though that won't help Fantasy owners too much. He shouldn't be drafted in standard Fantasy play at this point unless you're in a two-QB league or unless you're counting on Roethlisberger to be your starter and are desperate for a replacement (keep in mind that other starting quarterbacks are better choices than Leftwich).
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin isn't saying whether quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will play in Saturday night's home exhibition game against the Detroit Lions. The game will be Roethlisberger's first since he drew a six-game suspension after being accused of sexual assault on a Georgia college student in March. He was not charged but was suspended by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell. The Steelers' starters will play only eight to 12 snaps - about two series - and Tomlin wouldn't say whether Roethlisberger or Byron Leftwich would start. Leftwich will be the starter when the season opens and Roethlisberger begins to serve his suspension, which could be reduced to four games.
Analysis: Leftwich should start for the Steelers until Roethlisberger returns from his suspension -- expected to be Week 6 but possibly as late as Week 8. Leftwich shouldn't be drafted in standard Fantasy play at this point unless you're in a two-QB league or unless you're counting on Ben Roethlisberger to be your starter and are desperate for a replacement (keep in mind that other starting quarterbacks are better choices than Leftwich).
News: Steelers backup QB Byron Leftwich is undaunted to be at the helm of the offense the first month or so of the regular season while starter Ben Roethlisberger sits out his suspension. "I remember when I was the franchise quarterback," Leftwich said Wednesday. "This ain't my first rodeo." "I'm a veteran, man. I know how to get through a season. As a quarterback, it's hard to get through 16 straight. I know what to do. I know how to prepare myself." The Steelers are giving Leftwich as many practice snaps as Roethlisberger during training camp, something they've not done before with another quarterback. Head coach Mike Tomlin isn't saying yet how the playing time will be divided during the four exhibition games, starting Saturday against Detroit, but Leftwich figures to get as much work with the starters as Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Roethlisberger is suspended for at least four and as many as six games, so Leftwich will see a reasonable amount of action in 2010. However, his career highs of 2,941 yards passing and 15 touchdowns don't amount to much of an impact in Fantasy, so it's unlikely he'll be worth starting even while Big Ben is in time out. Leftwich is no better than a short-term backup for the early part of the regular season.
News: Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger took snaps only with the starters, alternating with Byron Leftwich, during the Steelers' first practice of training camp. Roethlisberger, who will be suspended for at least the first four games of the season, ran the opening series of plays with the starting unit during a morning practice that was closed to the public. Leftwich then ran some plays with the starters and others with backups. Coach Mike Tomlin said Leftwich would get the majority of the training camp time with the starters, followed by Dennis Dixon, as the Steelers prepare for the start of the season. Roethlisberger is barred from team activities during his suspension, so the only practice time he will get until October will occur during camp.
Analysis: Leftwich has the inside track to start while Big Ben is out. He should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day, but Roethlisberger will take over once he returns. Only draft Leftwich with a late pick in deep formats.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Thursday that Steelers coach Mike Tomlin declined to name a No. 1 QB following the conclusion of offseason practices since Ben Roethlisberger will open the season out with a suspension for at least the first four games. But Tomlin said the Steelers will go into training camp with the same rotation at quarterback that they have had since late April, which means Byron Leftwich will begin as the starter ahead of Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch. "I think how we distributed (repetitions) is an indication of our mindset at this juncture," Tomlin said. The paper reports that it has been clear for awhile that the job is Leftwich's to lose despite Tomlin saying during minicamp that the competition would be open.
Analysis: At this point we expect Leftwich to be the starter in Week 1 as well and to remain there so long as he doesn't commit many errors. But none of the Steelers' quarterbacks behind Roethlisberger have much Fantasy value. At the very best, consider the Steelers starter, whether it's Leftwich, Dixon or Batch, a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day worth a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger worked with the first team during Wednesday's practice. Byron Leftwich worked with the second team, and Dennis Dixon worked with the third-team offense. "Ben's back in the building, so we put him in the huddle to get him acclimated with the guys that he usually works with," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. "What we want to do is give Ben quality reps so he can get reacclimated and improve and work on his game." Roethlisberger returned to practice Tuesday for the first time since he was suspended six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The suspension, which allows Roethlisberger to participate in practices and preseason games, can be reduced to the first four regular-season games. In terms of his QB rotation, Tomlin said Dixon will continue to split a share of the repetitions because he is young and needs the work. If there is a reduction, Tomlin said it will come at the expense of Leftwich or veteran Charlie Batch.
Analysis: We still expect Leftwich to start while Roethlisberger is out, but Dixon could still challenge for the starting job in training camp. Keep an eye on what happens with Dixon and Leftwich, and whoever starts the first four games in Pittsburgh could be drafted with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News:Byron Leftwich is handling nearly all of the first-team snaps in practice, a strong indicator he will be the starter while Roethlisberger serves his six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Dennis Dixon and Charlie Batch are also presumably still in the running for the job. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin wants to go into training camp with what he calls a "pecking order" defined at quarterback, and with the Steelers practicing only three days a week though June 10, Tomlin seemingly would give far more work to Dixon or Batch if either figured to go into camp as the designated replacement. While Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians tweaked the playbook some while Leftwich was gone, it apparently hasn't taken much time for Leftwich to get caught up. "When you like something, you never forget it and I never forgot his offense," Leftwich said. "It changed some, but as a quarterback you're so used to things changing here and there, you can pick up on it. Especially when he makes it as easy as he makes it. There's always a rhyme or reason to what he does. I know the way he thinks."
Analysis: At this point we expect Leftwich to be the starter in Week 1 and to remain there so long as he doesn't commit many errors. But none of the Steelers' quarterbacks behind Ben Roethlisberger have much Fantasy value. At the very best, consider the Steelers starter, whether it's Leftwich, Dixon or Batch, a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day, and the winner of the battle should only be drafted with a late-round pick in deep leagues as an early bye week replacement or backup.
News: The Steelers opened OTA workouts Tuesday with QB Byron Leftwich working with the first-team offense, just like he did in mini-camp three weeks ago. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin recently stated that he would know who is starting QB would be before training camp. It appears it will be Leftwich. Dennis Dixon is at No. 2, and Charlie Batch is No. 3. "I really don't believe it's an effective approach to go in with a pure, open quarterback competition," Tomlin said. "There simply aren't enough snaps to go around. We'll go in with a pecking order, if you will, and the opportunities to show what you're capable of will be based on that pecking order. All three guys will be given an opportunity, but not an equal opportunity. That's just the nature of this game, of this business." As expected, QB Ben Roethlisberger was a no-show. He hasn't been given permission by the league to resume football activities.
Analysis: Dixon could still impress the coaching staff this offseason and in training camp, but we expect Leftwich to be the starter in Week 1. But none of the three quarterbacks have much Fantasy value even though they will start the first four games of the season. At best, consider the Steelers starter, whether it's Leftwich, Dixon or Batch, a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day, and the winner of the battle should only be drafted with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: Steelers coach Mike Tomlin told the team's official website that he will know the starting QB once training camp starts. But that doesn't mean Tomlin will announce who among Byron Leftwich, Charlie Batch and Dennis Dixon will start the season with Ben Roethlisberger suspended for six games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Roethlisberger's suspension can be reduced for four games, but the Steelers still need a starter for Week 1. "It's not a three-man quarterback competition at this point," Tomlin said. "We know what all three men are capable of doing. All three men, at different points in time, have benefited us and helped us win football games or played winning football. We know what we're working with. We're going to spend the rest of this offseason teaching, re-acclimating in some cases – as with Byron Leftwich – and then we're going to make decisions and move forward."
Analysis: Leftwich opened the first minicamp in early May taking snaps with the first team, but Tomlin said that was to help Leftwich get reacquainted with the offense after spending last season with Tampa Bay (ESPN reported in mid-May that it's Leftwich's job to lose). We think the QB battle will be between Leftwich and Dixon, but none of the three quarterbacks have much Fantasy value even though they will start the first four games of the season. At best, consider the Steelers starter, whether it's Leftwich, Dixon or Batch, a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day, and the winner of the battle should only be drafted with a late-round pick in deep leagues.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports with Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger away from minicamp this past weekend to attend a clinic to evaluate his behavior as part of his suspension, coach Mike Tomlin went about finding his replacement for at least the first four games of the season. Byron Leftwich took snaps with the first team for all five minicamp practices, with Dennis Dixon second and Charlie Batch third. Tomlin said all three are in the running, but he started with Leftwich because it was his first practices back with them after spending the past season with Tampa Bay. "I wanted to give him as many opportunities to reacquaint him to this environment, some of the people that he works with in that group and so forth," Tomlin said. "The other guys will be given opportunities, no question. Byron is a sharp guy. He has reacquainted himself to our environment rather quickly, interacting with teammates, understanding the offensive concepts, being able to communicate those things. He's doing a nice job, as are the other guys. We got a long process here for the rest of the offseason. We're looking forward to watching those guys work and find rhythm with receivers and so forth, and just continuing to grow."
Analysis: The competition will likely last well into training camp as all three quarterbacks battle for the starting spot until Roethlisberger returns, which would be in Week 6 at the earliest since the Steelers are off in Week 5. None of these quarterbacks are worth drafting in the majority of leagues, but the starter should be considered a low-end No. 2 option in deeper formats.
News: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger was suspended for six games without pay Wednesday for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy and ordered to undergo behavioral evaluation. Commissioner Roger Goodell made the announcement a week after prosecutors decided not to charge Roethlisberger after a 20-year-old college student accused him of sexually assaulting her in a Georgia nightclub in March. Goodell said the league's conduct policy gave him the right to impose discipline. Roethlisberger must undergo a "comprehensive behavioral evaluation by medical professionals" and may not attend any team offseason activities until that evaluation is completed. The suspension could be reduced to four games for good behavior. Sitting out all six games would cost him an estimated $2.8 million. With Roethlisberger out, the Steelers plan to have Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich compete for the starting job. Charlie Batch is also on the roster.
Analysis: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that Leftwich, who was acquired via trade from Tampa Bay on Tuesday for a seventh-round pick, had his contract extended an extra year Wednesday. Leftwich, Batch and Dixon will be in the mix to replace Roethlisberger, but early reports are Dixon will enter training camp as the starter. Leftwich could easily win the job, but he has minimal Fantasy value. Don't plan on drafting Leftwich in the majority of leagues, but keep an eye on what happens during training camp between Leftwich and Dixon to see who wins the job.
News: The Steelers reacquired quarterback Byron Leftwich by dealing a seventh-round draft pick to Tampa Bay, a sign they expect Ben Roethlisberger to be suspended for the start of the season. Leftwich backed up Roethlisberger in 2008, when the Steelers won the Super Bowl. He knows offensive coordinator Bruce Arians' system and could be ready to play Sept. 12 when the Steelers open against Atlanta. Pittsburgh already has third-year quarterback Dennis Dixon and longtime backup Charlie Batch under contract. Batch has been injured each of the past two seasons. Dixon has started only one NFL game.
Analysis: The Steelers play three teams that didn't make the playoffs - the Falcons, Bucs and Titans - plus division rival Baltimore in their first four games, a period that could span any Roethlisberger suspension. Leftwich should be suitable for the Steelers but Fantasy owners could land a better choice to start in place of Roethlisberger for the start of the season. Figure Leftwich to be a spot starter off waivers during his period of starting for Big Ben or a desperation No. 2 QB in leagues that start two passers.
News:Byron Leftwich's season is over after the Buccaneers put the backup quarterback on injured reserve with a sore right elbow. Tampa Bay also announced on Tuesday that it had signed quarterback Rudy Carpenter from the Cowboys practice squad, released reserve cornerback Mike Mickens and signed receiver Terrence Nunn from New England's practice squad.
Analysis: None of these players warrant Fantasy use because of their limited or non-existent playing time. Keep them all on waivers and off of rosters.
News: The Buccaneers have listed the following players as inactive for Week 10 at Miami: WR Antonio Bryant, DE Stylez White, QB Byron Leftwich, WR Yamon Figurs, CB Mike Mickens and RB Chris Pressley.
Analysis: Bryant has plenty of Fantasy value in deeper leagues, but you should have already benched him as he was declared out earlier this week. The same goes for White, who is a low-end flier in deeper IDP leagues. The rest of these guys have no Fantasy value.
News: The Buccaneers have announced their inactives for Week 9 vs. Green Bay: QB Byron Leftwich, WR Antonio Bryant, WR Yamon Figurs, CB Mike Mickens, FB Chris Pressley and DT Dre Moore.
Analysis: Bryant is the only one on this list with any real Fantasy value right now, so be sure to bench him in all formats. Continue to ignore the others.
News: The Buccaneers have announced the inactives for their Week 7 game vs. New England in London: RB Clifton Smith, QB Byron Leftwich, DB Marcus McCauley, DL Dre Moore and DL Kyle Moore.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value at this time.
News: Tampa Bay RB B.J. Askew is listed among the Bucs' inactives for Week 6 against Carolina. The rest of the inactives are as follows: QB Byron Leftwich (3rd QB), WR Yamon Figurs, LB Quincy Black, DL Dre Moore and DL Kyle Moore.
Analysis: Askew is not a relevant Fantasy player and can continue to be ignored in all formats. The rest of the players on this list are exactly the same. Leftwich could retain value at some point down the line but it is doubtful at this point.
News: The Buccaneers have announced the inactives for their Week 5 game at Philadelphia: DE Kyle Moore, QB Byron Leftwich, CB Corey Lynch, DL Dre Moore and RB Earnest Graham.
Analysis: Graham, the only Fantasy-viable player in this group, was questionable with a hamstring injury. Stash him in deeper leagues and ignore all the others.
News: Tampa Bay QB Byron Leftwich has fallen far. He has gone from starter to 3rd QB and inactive for Week 4 at Washington. The Bucs also listed DB Marcus Hamilton, DL Dre Moore and DL Kyle Moore as incative for the game. Derrick Ward is also inactive.
Analysis: Leftwich could become a starter once again later this season but we really wouldn't care in Fantasy the way they've been playing. The rest of the guys listed above, save Ward, are not worth having on Fantasy rosters for Week 4.
News: Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris named Josh Johnson the team's starter for Week 4 at Washington. He'll replace Byron Leftwich, who failed to help the Bucs to a win through the first three weeks of the season, including a dismal performance in Week 3 vs. the Giants. Leftwich will now be the third-string QB for the team; rookie Josh Freeman will be the backup. He did not participate in practice on Wednesday or Thursday due to a hip injury as well.
Analysis: Johnson completed 4 of 10 passes for 36 yards as he relieved Leftwich in a Week 3 loss to the Giants with a 15-yard rush. He'll be prepared for the matchup at the Redskins, but it's not favorable for him. Thus, keep him on your Fantasy bench for the foreseeable future unless you're desperate for a quarterback. Leftwich shouldn't be owned in any Fantasy leagues at this point, injured or not.
News: Buccaneers QB Byron Leftwich completed just 7 of 16 passes for 22 yards and an interception in a Week 3 loss to the Giants. Leftwich was benched in the fourth quarter in favor of Josh Johnson.
Analysis: Leftwich put up nice numbers in Week 2, but it was the complete opposite in Week 3 as the Giants embarrassed the Buccaneers on their home turf. In Week 4, the Buccaneers play at Washington. Leftwich might not even start the game at this point and is certainly not worth using outside of the deepest Fantasy league that requires two QBs.
News: Tampa Bay QB Byron Leftwich went 26 of 50 for 296 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions - one of which bounced off the hands of receiver Sammie Stroughter Week 2 in a 33-20 loss to the Bills. Kellen Winslow had 90 yards receiving and a touchdown, while Carnell Williams and Jerramy Stevens also scored. Leftwich finished with a passer rating of 73.4.
Analysis: Considering the options Tampa Bay has running the ball it's surprising to see Leftwich get 50 passing attempts against the Bills who were missing Paul Posluzny. Leftwich is not expected to continue to put up big numbers with the Bucs and he looked shaky at times against the Bills Week 2. Keep thinking him as one of the lowest-ranked options for Week 3's game against the Giants.
News:Byron Leftwich made his first start as the Bucs quarterback in Week 1 against the Cowboys, however, the veteran gunslinger could not lead his team to victory. Leftwich didn't turn the ball over, but Dallas still escaped with a 34-21 win. Leftwich completed 25 of 41 passers for 276 yards and one touchdown -- a 2-yard strike to Kellen Winslow late in the fourth quarter. Leftwich also totaled three rushing yards while hitting 10 different receivers.
Analysis: Leftwich's numbers might have been a little better in Week 1 had his receivers not dropped a handful of key passes. Still, Leftwich did a pretty good job with what he has catching passes. It also helped that he didn't create any turnovers. Leftwich did nothing to lose his job in Week 1, but he is still nothing more than a Fantasy reserve heading into Week 2 against the Bills.
News: In a startling move, the Buccaneers dismissed offensive coordinator Jeff Jagodzinski on Thursday, replacing him with quarterbacks coach Greg Olson. Jagodzinski was offered to stay on as the quarterbacks coach but declined. Bucs head coach Raheem Morris didn't get into specifics over the move, but stressed that the offense needed more direction, details and precision. He also said that while the Bucs will still be a running team, their passing focus will change. "We're talking about a different direction with our passing game a little bit," Morris said. "More vertical threat, more vertical balls down the field."
Analysis: Jagodzinski had installed his version of the West Coast offense, something Olson is familiar with but might not stick to as he's not known for running that type of scheme going back to his days with the Rams and Lions. Fantasy owners weren't clinging to hopes of Byron Leftwich being a Fantasy superstar anyway, but this just makes him even less appealing. He's a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a late-round pick in deeper drafts.
News: Bucs coach Raheem Morris said Tuesday that starter Byron Leftwich and backup Luke McCown won't play much in the preseason finale after already establishing their roles. "We want to go with the young guys, predominantly the young guys," Morris said. "I don't think I'll give you much of Luke or Leftwich."
Analysis: This is a good sign that Leftwich has little to prove before Week 1, and he should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day. Ignore McCown in all leagues since he's coming off the bench.
News: NFL Network is among numerous outlets reporting that Byron Leftwich has been named the starting quarterback for the Buccaneers, ending his battle with fellow veteran Luke McCown. Leftwich hasn't exactly had a sharp preseason, completing just 48.8 percent of his passes for 224 yards with one touchdown and no interceptions. McCown was better statistically -- he threw two touchdowns and completed 53.6 percent of his passes -- but averaged less than four yards per attempt.
Analysis: Frankly, neither quarterback did very well, and this just might be a case of the Buccaneers going with the trusty veteran over the unproven talent. We may very well see a switch at some point during the season, but with rookie passer Josh Freeman lurking on the bench, it won't be long until he sees the majority of time under center. No Buccaneers quarterback is worth taking with anything more than a late-round pick as a low-end reserve.
News: After watching film of Thursday's 10-6 preseason loss to Miami, Bucs coach Raheem Morris still was not ready to publicly announce his starting QB. He planned to meet Friday with his staff to further discuss and analyze the play of QBs Byron Leftwich and Luke McCown. Morris officially ruled out rookie QB Josh Freeman as the starter, although it has been clear for several weeks that the decision will come down to Leftwich or McCown. Morris on the qualities that make Leftwich a potential starter: "The fact that he's won 12 games in this league before. The fact that he's a big, strong-armed guy that can make all the throws. ... He has the savvy. He has the toughness. He's mentally sharp. All the qualities that you look for in a quarterback." Morris on the qualities that make McCown a potential starter at QB: "You're talking about a young guy that's hungry. That's waited his turn. ... He can make plays with his feet. Can make all the throws. Has the ability to step in there and be positive with things. He's a leader."
Analysis: We expect Leftwich to win the job. He's played the best through the preseason and was the starter for the third preseason game against Miami. If you're looking for a sleeper in deep formats as a low-end No. 2 QB, take a chance on Leftwich. Leave McCown on the waiver wire, and Freeman is only worth drafting in deep keeper leagues.
News: The race for Tampa Bay's starting quarterback job might finally have a clear-cut winner. Given roughly the same amount of playing time to make their final cases during a 10-6 loss to the Dolphins, Byron Leftwich outperformed Luke McCown to likely create the separation Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris sought to make a decision. Leftwich completed 9 of 17 passes for 100 yards in just over a quarter, working four possessions. He overthrew some open receivers in the rain, but was impressive on third down with throws of 21, 21 and 18 yards to Maurice Stovall to extend drives. McCown also played a little more than a quarter without nearly as much success. He misfired on his first four passing attempts, finished 5 of 11 for 38 yards. He also was sacked twice while not producing any points for the second time in three games.
Analysis: Throughout training camp, Morris said he wanted to make a decision on the starting quarterback before the third preseason game. His plan changed after neither player established himself as a clear-cut winner. Leftwich played well one week and McCown had the stronger performance the next, with neither leading a long scoring drive but demonstrating an ability to take advantage of short fields to get the ball in the end zone. The latest test allowed both to play a comparable amount of time with the first-team offense, minus injured starting receivers Antonio Bryant and Michael Clayton. Leftwich won't have much value in Fantasy this season as the starter but would make for a decent reserve. McCown will have no Fantasy value assuming he is the backup to Leftwich. However, look for rookie Josh Freeman to eventually take over the starting gig at some point during the season.
News: Bucs coach Raheem Morris had insisted that he wanted to name a starting QB in time for Thursday's preseason game against the Dolphins, but Sunday he hedged that self-imposed deadline. Now, Morris says he might not anoint Byron Leftwich, Luke McCown or Josh Freeman the regular-season starter until after Thursday's game. "We may go to overtime," Morris said of the QB decision. "And that's a good thing, too. We initially set a deadline, but deadlines always are set to be broken. So, I might break it on you, throw a curveball at you."
Analysis: In Saturday's game against Jacksonville, Leftwich finished 6 of 12 passing for 63 yards. McCown was 6 of 9 for 51 yards, with two touchdown passes. But both of his drives came with short fields -- a 20-yard drive following Sammie Stroughter's 75-yard kickoff return and a 45-yard drive following Jacksonville's second special teams miscue. And Freeman was 3 of 5 passing for 47 yards. None of Tampa Bay's quarterbacks have much Fantasy value in seasonal leagues since there is no clear front-runner. Freeman is worth drafting in keeper leagues and rookie-only drafts with a high pick based on his potential to be the franchise QB.
News: Though Raheem Morris says Tampa Bay's quarterback competition is still wide open, the first-year coach plans to make a decision within a week. That suits the apparent frontrunner, Byron Leftwich, just fine. Leftwich will begin Saturday night's preseason game at Jacksonville with an opportunity to be a team's No. 1 quarterback for the first time since the Jaguars cut him late in training camp two years ago. That's precisely what Leftwich hoped for when he signed with Tampa Bay this spring after spending last season as a backup to Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh. "I didn't really care what quarterbacks were with the team. I just wanted to be able to go out and compete and be the guy if I'm the best guy for the job," the seventh-year pro said Monday. "That's all you can ask for. That's what I asked for - and Raheem promised - if I came here. I'm just going to try to take advantage of it."
Analysis: So far, so good. Leftwich has moved the offense consistently in practice and outplayed the other contenders for the job, Luke McCown and rookie Josh Freeman, during last Saturday's preseason opener at Tennessee. Leftwich has the most upside of this group for Fantasy owners this season. Freeman is worth drafting in keeper leagues and rookie-only drafts with a high pick based on his potential to be the franchise QB. Leftwich will jump in value when and if the Bucs finally do tab him the starter. He'd become a solid Fantasy reserve option in most leagues.
News: Tampa Bay coach Raheem Morris may have found his starting QB with Byron Leftwich playing better than Luke McCown in Saturday's preseason game at Tennessee. Leftwich played the second half and was 6 of 14 for 61 yards with a TD pass. McCown started the game and was 4 of 8 for 19 yards. Rookie Josh Freeman, who is not expected to start the first game of the year, was 5 of 9 for 52 yards with an interception. "I don't know if you learned anything tonight, but Leftwich came in and he played a little bit better. He threw a couple of good balls. He threw a couple of strikes in there, and threw a touchdown tonight," Morris said. "For the most part, they both handled the game well."
Analysis: This is a good sign for Leftwich, who has the most upside of this group for Fantasy owners this season. But none of Tampa Bay's quarterbacks have much Fantasy value in seasonal leagues since there is no clear front-runner. Freeman is worth drafting in keeper leagues and rookie-only drafts with a high pick based on his potential to be the franchise QB.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports Tampa Bay coach Raheem Morris planned on starting QB Luke McCown for the first preseason game at Tennessee ahead of Byron Leftwich and rookie Josh Freeman no matter what happened during the early part of training camp. "I knew McCown would start the preseason opener when I took this job," said Morris, who also announced that Leftwich would start the second preseason game at Jacksonville. "These guys have known that for a while now. I told them months ago."
Analysis: We think McCown has a good chance to win the job, but look for Leftwich and Freeman to also see time this year as the starter. This is not a good Fantasy situation, so plan on avoiding McCown, Leftwich and Freeman in seasonal leagues. Even if McCown wins the job, he is a No. 3 Fantasy option at best.
News: According to the official team web site, Tampa Bay has listed Luke McCown as the starting QB ahead of Byron Leftwich and Josh Freeman on the first depth chart. Leftwich is No. 2, and Freeman is third. This isn't much of a surprise since McCown has been with the team the longest and should be the most familiar with the system.
Analysis: We think McCown has a good chance to win the job, but look for Leftwich and Freeman to also see time this year as the starter. This is not a good Fantasy situation, so plan on avoiding McCown, Leftwich and Freeman in seasonal leagues. Even if McCown wins the job, he is a No. 3 Fantasy option at best.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Bucs QB Luke McCown is excited about the beginning of training camp and being able to enter the season with the chance to start. "It's actually there," McCown said of the opportunity. "You go into camp expecting to be the starter every year, but (now) somebody says, 'You really have a chance this year.' It's a little added emphasis for me. . . It means a lot to me that I'm getting that opportunity."
Analysis: McCown will compete with Byron Leftwich and rookie Josh Freeman for the starting job. Whoever wins should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy option, so don't plan on drafting McCown in most leagues if he's named the starter.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports that Buccaneers GM Mark Dominik envisions rookie QB Josh Freeman to be the team's long-term option and not a guy to throw into the fire right away this season. Additionally, he says the QB battle between veterans Byron Leftwich and Luke McCown to be a good one, calling it "wide open" and adding that the competition is still ongoing with a winner possibly being named after the preseason. "The important thing about what they did in the OTA's as a group is that they got a foundation of the offense and showed an ability to grasp it mentally and then go out and operate it on the field. That's why we're anxious to put the pads on and see how they do in the (preseason) games," Dominik said.
Analysis: We expect to see Leftwich or McCown, not Freeman, under center at the start of the season, but whomever emerges as the team's starter won't be any better than a low-end No. 2 option anyway. You're better off passing on all Bucs quarterbacks in drafts this summer.
News: Two months after drafting Josh Freeman as their QB of the future, the Buccaneers are not ruling out the prospect of him earning the starting job much sooner than expected. Veterans Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich remain the frontrunners, however the team's first-round draft pick has shown enough during offseason workouts and this week's minicamp that the Bucs are rethinking their stance on bringing him along slowly. "I'm going to play the best guy," coach Raheem Morris said. "I don't want to give anybody anything. I want that quarterback to take it. Then I want all of us to be able to say, 'That's our quarterback.'" The Bucs have said they won't rush Freeman's development, however McCown and Leftwich haven't done much to set themselves apart in the competition. "He's pushing the envelope. Those guys are fighting with him. He's fighting back. That's what you want," Morris said. "We'll continue to evaluate this thing throughout training camp. We'll continue to evaluate it throughout the season. We'll continue to evaluate it until Josh Freeman is ready to become our prototypical franchise quarterback."
Analysis: None of Tampa Bay's quarterbacks have much Fantasy value in seasonal leagues since there is no clear front-runner. Freeman is worth drafting in keeper leagues and rookie-only drafts with a high pick based on his potential to be the franchise QB. Keep an eye on the competition and see what develops during training camp before making a decision on using one of the Bucs' passers as a No. 2 Fantasy option with a late-round pick.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports that the Buccaneers are reconsidering whether or not they want to have rookie QB Josh Freeman compete for the starting job in training camp. Freeman recently took third-team reps during the club's offseason minicamps, but with competing veterans Byron Leftwich and Luke McCown doing nothing to help their causes to start, the coaching staff may try to get Freeman involved. Freeman has been practicing well with the third unit. "We just discussed the Josh Freeman plan," quarterbacks coach Greg Olson said. "We decided we'll go through the summer, we'll go probably a week into training camp and we'll revisit it again ... we may expedite what he's doing. ... Early when he first got here, he was forcing the football too much. If he can show he's progressing as far as the decision-making goes, then shoot, why not? He's comfortable in there, he throws a great ball, he's accurate and if he's not turning the ball over, then maybe he will be ready to play. He didn't seem nervous in the huddle at all last week and that was a great sign. He made some big throws as well."
Analysis: This report makes sense since Leftwich has been battling a groin pull and McCown has been struggling to learn the offense. It used to be taboo to start a rookie QB, but last year's ascension of Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco changed that. Perhaps Freeman will be next. We'll keep tabs on what goes down at Bucs' camp, but whomever emerges as the team's starter won't be any better than a low-end No. 2 option anyway. You're better off passing on all Bucs quarterbacks in drafts this season.
News: According to a Q&A on the Pewter Report with Tampa Bay quarterbacks coach Greg Olson, Bucs QB Byron Leftwich has made an impression. "Very experienced, he throws a great deep ball," Olson said. "He sees the field very well. Those are the two things that probably jumped out at me, but he's an awful athlete. ... He's sluggish. That's why I call him the slug. He's got slow feet and delivery, and all those things you beat him up on, and then he goes out and makes big plays. He has a great attitude and has some real natural leadership qualities. He sees the field extremely well and he has been a real pleasure to be around. It has been great to be around him."
Analysis: Leftwich is competing with Luke McCown and rookie Josh Freeman. We wouldn't be surprised if Leftwich wins the job, but he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB at best. Continue to monitor what develops, but plan on passing on Leftwich on Draft Day.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports Byron Leftwich could be pulling ahead of Luke McCown in the race for the starting QB job in Tampa Bay. From the initial reports, rookie Josh Freeman might be third. "We're charting it. We're looking at it, and it's tight. It's exactly what we said we wanted," coach Raheem Morris said. "We wanted competition, and we've got it. If they're going to (create) tough decisions for us, that's great. I don't want anybody to give it to them. I don't want anybody to win by default. I want it to be a guy where we all jump on his back and say, 'That's our guy. Let's go with him.'"
Analysis: Leftwich has an advantage in terms of experience with 49 career starts. He played well in five games with the Super Bowl champion Steelers last season, completing 21-of-36 passes for 303 yards, two touchdowns, no interceptions and he also rushed for a touchdown. McCown has played in just 12 games over five seasons, going 1-6 as a starter with four starts coming during his rookie season in Cleveland. Last season, he attempted one pass during brief appearances in two games. The paper also reports that all three quarterbacks, including Freeman, will play this season. The starter in Week 1 could be replaced by the bye in Week 8. The backup will likely give way to Freeman. That means all three QBs have minimal Fantasy value in seasonal leagues. Only Freeman is worth owning in keeper leagues and rookie-only formats.
News: The St. Petersburg Times reports that Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich split the vast majority of the first-team reps during the first part of the Bucs' May minicamp. Rookie Josh Freeman, who admittedly wasn't up to speed with the tempo of the practice, got only a handful of reps.
Analysis: It is expected that McCown, Leftwich and Freeman will battle for the starting job in training camp, with the better vet between McCown and Leftwich getting the early nod and Freeman eventually taking over for the long term. Of course, if Freeman has a strong camp, he might oust both vets. Ultimately, whomever is the Tampa Bay starting QB won't be any better than a low-end No. 2 option in Fantasy play since no one listed above has a quality NFL track record. You're better off passing on all Bucs quarterbacks in drafts this season.
News: The Buccaneers drafted their potential quarterback of the future when they took Josh Freeman of Kansas State with the 17th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. The pick isn't much of a surprise considering that new Bucs head coach Raheem Morris knew Freeman from their days together at K-State. Freeman threw for 2,945 yards in his senior year (down from his junior year) on 58.6 completion percentage for 20 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. He also rushed for an eye-popping 14 touchdowns and 404 yards. His arrival means that Byron Leftwich, Josh McCown, Brian Griese and Josh Johnson will all be forced to battle for all spots along the quarterback depth chart in training camp this summer.
Analysis: Obviously, the Bucs hope Freeman is the long-term answer to their quarterback position, but his drafting throws a fairly big wrench into who will take what role for the club in 2009. Ultimately, whomever is the Tampa Bay starting QB won't be any better than a low-end No. 2 option in Fantasy play since no one listed above has a quality NFL track record. You're better off passing on all Bucs quarterbacks in drafts this season.
News: The Tampa Tribune reports that the Buccaneers and QB Byron Leftwich have agreed to terms on a two-year contract, adding the former Jaguars starter to an already intriguing mix of passers on the roster. Leftwich should battle for the starting job with Luke McCown. He will be paid $2 million for his first year, and the club will have an option for a second year at $3.5 million.
Analysis: Leftwich spent 2008 with the Steelers after playing less than 10 games the past two years with Jacksonville and Atlanta and appeared in seven games. He completed 56.8 percent of his passes for 303 yards and two touchdowns and also added a rushing touchdown. He's worth a look because if he does land the starting job with Tampa Bay, he'll have a shot to post fairly decent numbers with Antonio Bryant and Kellen Winslow his primary targets to go along with a well-handed rushing corps and a fantastic offensive line. He's not expected to be any better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB if he does win the job, but that might be enough to make him worth a late-round pick in drafts this summer if he is Tampa Bay's quarterback.
News: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports the Steelers issued a contract offer this week to QB Byron Leftwich, who spent Thursday visiting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The two-year offer from the Steelers is close to minimum wage for Leftwich, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The minimum for him would be $620,000 in 2009 and $755,000 in 2010. Leftwich, though, prefers a one-year contract if he returns to the Steelers. He signed a one-year contract with them in August after Charlie Batch's clavicle was broken in a preseason game.
Analysis: The market seems to be bare for Leftwich, who would be a nice No. 2 Fantasy QB if he was a starter somewhere, but would have limited value as a backup to Ben Roethlisberger in Pittsburgh. For now, continue to monitor where he ends up, and that will determine his Fantasy value for 2009. But even if he's named a starter somewhere, he would only be worth drafting as a backup in Fantasy leagues.
News: Although his Steelers are still alive in the playoff hunt following their win over San Diego on Sunday, backup QB Byron Leftwich told the Chicago Sun-Times that he'd strongly consider an offer from the Bears if they courted him this offseason. Leftwich thought he'd be a Bear back when he was drafted, but Chicago traded out of the Top 5 and settled for Rex Grossman later in Round 1. Leftwich went to Jacksonville, then Atlanta, then inked a "prove-it" deal with the Steelers this year and played well in limited work while Ben Roethlisberger was hurt. "We are in the playoff run right now, so I don't even want to go there, but tell them to look me up," Leftwich told the paper. "I'm a fan of Lovie Smith, I'll just say that. I thought that was where I was going to go in the beginning. I remember hoping that I would go there. I just wanted to be a part of the tradition, the history of the Bears. You're growing up, watching games at Soldier Field on TV, I wanted to be a part of that coming out. I thought there was a chance I would go there. I want a chance to go somewhere and play. I guess everybody wanted to see if I am healthy, and now they can see it. I'm ready to play again."
Analysis: In Chicago, Leftwich would compete with Kyle Orton for the starting job. He'd be a decent No. 2 Fantasy QB if he were to win that job, or just about any job in the NFL. For now, he'll continue to be a backup in Pittsburgh, but he will be a free agent this offseason.
News: Pittsburgh QB Byron Leftwich came on after starter Ben Roethlisberger suffered a concussion in Week 17's 31-0 win over the Browns and immediately did well. Leftwich finished off a 52-yard drive with an 8-yard touchdown run on a third-and-goal play to make it 14-0 with 40 seconds left in the first half. He finished with 80 passing yards and rushed for the only score for him on the day.
Analysis: Leftwich played quite well each time he needed to come in for Roethlisberger this season and proved he's going to be a very capable backup to Big Ben next season. That still makes him only a handcuff to Roethlisberger in Fantasy leagues unless he finds another situation. Depending on Roethlisberger's availability for the rest of the playoffs, however, he could be useful in Fantasy playoff leagues this season.
News: The following Steelers did not record an offensive statistic in Week 16 at Tennessee: QB Byron Leftwich, TE Matt Spaeth, WR Limas Sweed, RB Gary Russell, RB Carey Davis and TE Sean McHugh.
Analysis: The Steelers lost on Sunday and were locked into their playoff position as the No. 2 seed in the AFC. That means that these players could be seeing more playing time in Week 17 against Cleveland. However, we don't recommend riding a Fantasy title on any of them.
News: Steelers WR Limas Sweed, TE Matt Spaeth, RB Carey Davis and QB Byron Leftwich all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 15 at Baltimore.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Steelers and don't contribute a lot offensively on a weekly basis. They have little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 16 against the Titans.
News: Steelers WR Limas Sweed, TE Sean McHugh and QB Byron Leftwich all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 14 vs. Dallas.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Steelers and don't contribute a lot offensively on a weekly basis. They have little to no Fantasy value heading into Week 15 against the Ravens.
News: Pittsburgh had several players active for Week 13's drubbing of the New England Patriots who did not record any stats. They are as follows: TE Sean McHugh, WR Limas Sweed and backup QB Byron Leftwich.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers for Week 14 against Dallas.
News: Steelers TE Matt Spaeth, TE Sean McHugh and QB Byron Leftwich didn't record offensive statistics Week 12 against the Bengals.
Analysis: None of these players ever does enough statistically to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers for Week 13 at New England.
News: The following Steelers players did not record an offensive statistic in Week 11 against San Diego: QB Byron Leftwich, WR Limas Sweed and RB Carey Davis.
Analysis: None of the players on this list should be considered viable Fantasy option. They are not in a position to contribute regular stats as they aren't in line for regular playing time. They've got some depth chart climbing to do and should be left on the waiver wire.
News: Steelers RB Carey Davis, WR Limas Sweed, RB Gary Russell and QB Byron Leftwich all dressed, but failed to record an offensive stat Week 10 vs. Indianapolis.
Analysis: Most of these players are reserves for the Steelers and factor little into the offense. It's no surprise they were held off the stat sheet Week 10. Continue to ignore them in Fantasy heading into Week 11. The Steelers play the Chargers.
News: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is active and starting Week 10 against the Colts despite a nagging shoulder injury. Roethlisberger practiced Friday despite being limited by his slightly separated right shoulder. Byron Leftwich will begin the game as the backup quarterback.
Analysis: Roethlisberger sat out the second half of the Steelers' 23-6 victory in Washington Week 9 after aggravating the injury on a 1-yard touchdown run. The injury occurred in the Steelers' opener on Sept. 7 and has bothered him since. Leftwich played the second half, throwing a touchdown pass while leading two TD drives. Roethlisberger sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday before working out Friday. Consider Roethlisberger a No. 2 Fantasy QB Week 10. Leftwich should likely be kept reserved in Fantasy.
News: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger practiced Friday despite being limited by his slightly separated right shoulder and may be able to play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said earlier in the week it might be a game-time decision whether Roethlisberger or backup Byron Leftwich starts against the Colts (4-4), but Roethlisberger is listed as probable.
Analysis: Roethlisberger sat out the second half of the Steelers' 23-6 victory in Washington on Monday night after aggravating the injury on a 1-yard touchdown run. The injury occurred in the Steelers' opener on Sept. 7 and has bothered him since. Leftwich played the second half, throwing a touchdown pass while leading two TD drives. Roethlisberger sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday before working out Friday. Consider Leftwich no better than a desperation option in Week 10 Fantasy play, and adding him to rosters is only wise if it's to insure Roethlisberger.
News:Ben Roethlisberger's status for Sunday's game against the Colts remains uncertain due to his reinjured right shoulder. Roethlisberger underwent an MRI exam Tuesday, but the Steelers did not immediately release the results. He reinjured his separated right shoulder on a quarterback sneak near the end of the second quarter of the club's Week 9 game at Washington and did not play in the second half. Byron Leftwich took over and played well, completing 7-of-10 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown -- a five-yard toss to Santonio Holmes in the fourth quarter. Compounding matters is Leftwich's lack of knowledge of the Steelers offense. "I truly don't know the offense yet," Leftwich said Tuesday. "I just got here late in the preseason, so that's what makes it tough."
Analysis: If you own Roethlisberger, backing him up with Leftwich isn't the worst idea in the world since he could wind up playing this week. Then again, the Steelers will face off against a stiff Colts pass defense and might wind up running the ball 35 times anyway. Consider Leftwich no better than a desperation option in Week 10 Fantasy play, and adding him to rosters is only wise if it's to insure Roethlisberger.
News: After Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger left with a shoulder injury at halftime, Byron Leftwich proved himself a capable backup Week 9 at Washington. He finished 7-of-10 passing for 129 yards and a touchdown -- a five-yard toss to Santonio Holmes in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Leftwich has talent -- the Jaguars wouldn't have drafted him in the first round oh so many years ago if he didn't -- but he has struggled to grasp the intangibles of playing quarterback in the NFL (and he's had plenty of chances). If Roethlisberger ends up missing time with this injury, think of Leftwich as a low-end Fantasy replacement until he better proves himself. The Steelers host the Colts in Week 10.
News: The following Steelers players did not record any offensive stats in Week 8 against the Giants: QB Byron Leftwich, TE Matt Spaeth, RB Najeh Davenport, TE Sean McHugh and WR Dallas Baker.
Analysis: None of the players on this list should be considered viable Fantasy option. They are not in a position to contribute regular stats as they aren't in line for regular playing time. They've got some depth chart climbing to do and should be left on the waiver wire.
News: Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger threw for two touchdowns and 216 yards in Week 7 at Cincinnati. He completed 17 of 27 passes and was replaced late in the fourth quarter with the Steelers up 31-10 by backup Byron Leftwich. Leftwich completed three passes for 34 yards, including a 16-yard score.
Analysis: Roethlisberger had his way with the Bengals pass defense, ranked fourth in the NFL against the pass coming into the game. He would have had more yards, but there was no need to throw the ball much in the second half with the Steelers well out in front. Big Ben will face another tough pass defense in Week 8 at home against the Giants, but he's been able to put up good numbers against good, aggressive defenses already this season. He had 309 yards and three touchdowns against the Jaguars. Consider him a viable start in any league. Leftwich should not be owned in any Fantasy leagues while Roethlisberger is the starter.
News: Steelers TE Matt Spaeth, TE Sean McHugh, WR Dallas Baker and QB Byron Leftwich didn't record offensive statistics Week 5 at Jacksonville.
Analysis: None of these players do enough on offense to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Steelers TE Matt Spaeth, TE Sean McHugh, WR Dallas Baker and QB Byron Leftwich didn't record offensive statistics Week 4 at Jacksonville.
Analysis: None of these players do enough on offense to matter in Fantasy. Leave them all on waivers.
News: Steelers backup QB Byron Leftwich replaced starting QB Ben Roethlisberger with 3:39 remaining in Week 3's 15-6 loss to the Eagles after Roethlisberger injured his right throwing hand. Leftwich led Pittsburgh on their final drive, but it ended after eight plays with an incomplete pass on 4th-and-10 from the Philadelphia 22. Leftwich completed 4-of-7 passes for 60 yards.
Analysis: The Steelers don't know the extent of Big Ben's hand injury, but if he is unable to play, Leftwich will likely be under center Week 4 against the Ravens. That is not necessarily a welcoming matchup, so continue to ignore Leftwich in Fantasy until further notice.
News: With Ben Roethlisberger resting at the end of the third quarter in a blowout win, backup QB Byron Leftwich saw action vs. Houston in Week 1. However, he went 0-for-4 passing and had zero yards on two rushes.
Analysis: Leftwich is worth a look only if Ben Roethlisberger were to miss significant playing time, and keep in mind that Roethlisberger has never played a full 16-game slate (he would have last year if not for sitting in Week 17). Leftwich is someone you can pick up off the waiver wire later on this year if necessary.
News: The Steelers have decided to place backup QB Charlie Batch on Injured Reserve with a broken collarbone, ending his season, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. That means that veteran passer Byron Leftwich will have a job this year as the backup quarterback to Ben Roethlisberger.
Analysis: Batch shouldn't be owned in any league since he's done for the season. Leftwich is worth a look only if Ben Roethlisberger were to miss significant playing time, and keep in mind that Roethlisberger has never played a full 16-game slate (he would have last year if not for sitting in Week 17). Leftwich is someone you can pick up off the waiver wire later on this year if necessary.
News: He has thrown more passes in the preseason than starter Ben Roethlisberger. That doesn't mean the Steelers have seen nearly enough of their new backup QB, Byron Leftwich. Leftwich, signed by the Steelers after Charlie Batch broke his collarbone on Aug. 8, is expected to get most of the playing time Thursday when the Steelers face the Carolina Panthers in their fourth and final exhibition game. And it's not only because they want to give Leftwich as many preseason snaps as possible in an offense he began learning only this month. The Steelers still don't know how quickly Batch can return, though he isn't expected back until the third game of the season at the earliest. That means the Steelers may have a difficult roster decision to make. They have no plans to cut fifth-round draft choice Dennis Dixon, the former Oregon quarterback who is one of the most versatile skill-position players on the team, and Batch is expected to return in time to avoid going on the injured reserve list, which would end his season. Carrying four quarterbacks is almost unheard of in the NFL, yet the Steelers very well could begin the season with that many. They probably can't cut Leftwich in anticipation of a swift Batch return because that would leave them only with Dixon in reserve should Roethlisberger get hurt early in the season.
Analysis: Leftwich, the former Jacksonville and Atlanta starter, is 21-of-34 for 170 yards since signing with the Steelers but has yet to throw a touchdown pass, though he did lead the decisive field-goal drive in a 12-10 victory at Minnesota on Saturday. He has been sacked twice. There's been nothing for the Steelers to dislike about Leftwich, but he didn't take part in any offseason workouts or the first half of training camp with them. That's one reason he played the entire second half against Minnesota and is expected to take the majority of snaps against Carolina. For now, ignore Leftwich in all Fantasy leagues, especially if he gets cut in favor of Batch.
News:Byron Leftwich waited nine months to get back on the practice field. Now that he's done that, his first NFL action is likely only days away. Signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, the quarterback brought in to replace injured backup Charlie Batch impressed during his first two practices with the team on Monday, so much that coach Mike Tomlin said "it looks like he'll be able to play" Thursday when the team plays the Buffalo Bills in Toronto. "I was impressed simply by the fact he was a quick study," Tomlin said after a rain-soaked afternoon practice at Saint Vincent College. "He was able to step out there and step in the huddle, spew the verbiage out, get people lined up and actually get the ball around."
Analysis: Leftwich, a former No. 7 overall pick and starter for the Jacksonville Jaguars, worked out Sunday for the team along with former Minnesota Vikings Pro Bowl quarterback Daunte Culpepper. The team was need of a veteran backup after Batch broke his collarbone in a 16-10 preseason win Friday against Philadelphia. Leftwich has no illusions about being a starter with Pittsburgh, which has Pro Bowler Ben Roethlisberger at the position. But after Batch, the team had only rookies Dennis Dixon and Mike Potts on the roster and wanted some insurance. Batch had surgery Monday and is expected to miss about six weeks. Leftwich is reunited with Steelers quarterbacks coach Ken Anderson, who held the same position with Jacksonville. "He's a very smart quarterback, and he's got a strong arm," Anderson said. "He understands we have an established starter here, and he's just happy to do what we ask him to do." He's not worth a draft pick, obviously, but if Roethlisberger does injury himself, Leftwich should be a nice waiver wire pickup.
News: The Pittsburgh Steelers signed veteran quarterback Byron Leftwich on Sunday, choosing the former Jacksonville Jaguars starter over Daunte Culpepper, a three-time Pro Bowl player. The Steelers signed the 28-year-old Leftwich after both he and Culpepper worked out Sunday morning at the team's training camp at Saint Vincent College. Pittsburgh needed a backup for Ben Roethlisberger after veteran Charlie Batch broke his right collarbone in Friday night's 16-10 preseason victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. Batch, who is scheduled for surgery Monday, is expected to miss four to six weeks. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Leftwich, who has started 46 career games for Jacksonville and Atlanta, may not be released when Batch returns. "We're just going to let the play talk," Tomlin said. "You know how we do it. We're going to evaluate what we see based on performance." Leftwich was released by Atlanta in February and has played in just nine games the past two seasons because of ankle injuries.
Analysis: Roethlisberger, who was sacked 93 times the past two years, takes more hits than almost any passer in the NFL. Because of that, Leftwich is crucial for the Steelers in case Big Ben goes out with injury. He's not worth a draft pick, obviously, but if Roethlisberger does injury himself, Leftwich should be a nice waiver wire pickup.
News:The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review is reporting the Steelers are interested in signing either Daunte Culpepper or Byron Leftwich to back up Ben Roethlisberger after Charlie Batch was injured Friday night. Batch, who suffered a broken right collarbone in Friday's 16-10 exhibition victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, is expected to be out four to six weeks, according to coach Mike Tomlin. That leaves just rookies Dennis Dixon and Mike Potts on the roster to be the backups if they don't sign another. And Roethlisberger, who was sacked 93 times the past two years, takes more hits than almost any passer in the NFL.
Analysis: The backup quarterback position is crucial for the Steelers and whoever wins the job, be it from outside the organization or one of the rookies, would be a waiver-wire pick up should Roethlisberger injure himself at any point.
News: The Tennessee Titans are bringing in former Jacksonville quarterback Byron Leftwich for a physical and to throw to some receivers. The workout is designed to see if team officials want to add him to a "ready list" of players for emergencies. Coach Jeff Fisher said the Titans have a number of receivers they are working out Thursday, and he's not going to ask quarterbacks Vince Young, Kerry Collins or Ingle Martin to throw to them.
Analysis: Jacksonville cut Leftwich late in training camp a year ago, and he signed with Atlanta in September. He played in only three games because of an ankle injury and other problems. "He's played in the league. He's been a starter in the league. He's won a lot of games. We're bringing him in just to work him out and see where he's at and even give him a physical and have him throw to some receivers that we're also trying to determine whether we put on our ready list or not," Fisher said. Even if the Titans eventually sign Leftwich, he has a long way to make it up the depth chart and there is little chance he will be able to unseat a healthy Young at QB. Tennessee is definitely not the place Leftwich needs to go to get Fantasy stock back up. It's still safe to ignore him on Draft Day.
News: Former Jaguars and Falcons QB Byron Leftwich told CBSSports.com NFL Writer Pete Prisco that he's surprised he's not signed on with another club, but expects to find a new home soon. Teams appear to be shying away from Leftwich because of his injury history (both ankles have been hurt). "I know I'll get on somewhere," Leftwich told Prisco. "As long as it's not football season, I'm not going to worry that much. I want to get somewhere before the draft so I can have time to learn a new system. ... I just want to get back in, get a chance to show what I can do."
Analysis: After being cut before the start of the regular season in Jacksonville, Leftwich signed on with the Falcons in Week 3. He didn't play until Week 5 and started in Week 6. He got hurt, then came back to start in Week 11 and didn't play in another game the rest of the season. In his audition to be the Falcons' future quarterback, Leftwich completed 32-of-58 passes (55.2 pct.) for 279 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and two fumbles lost in three total appearances. He still has a strong arm but is clearly injury-prone and immobile in the pocket. We're sure that he'll sign somewhere too, but most likely as a backup. Don't spend a draft pick on Leftwich in 2008 Fantasy drafts.
News: The Falcons announced Friday that they released QB Byron Leftwich. Late last month, new head coach Mike Smith was non-committal about who his passer would be in 2008, and now we see part of the reason why.
Analysis: After being cut before the start of the regular season in Jacksonville, Leftwich signed on with the Falcons in Week 3. He didn't play until Week 5 and started in Week 6. He got hurt, then came back to start in Week 11 and didn't play in another game the rest of the season. In his audition to be the Falcons' future quarterback, Leftwich completed 32-of-58 passes (55.2 pct.) for 279 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and two fumbles lost in three total appearances. He still has a strong arm but is clearly injury-prone and immobile in the pocket. We're sure that he'll sign somewhere, but most likely as a backup. Don't spend a draft pick on Leftwich in 2008 Fantasy drafts.
News: New Falcons head coach Mike Smith, who spent the last four years as defensive coordinator in Jacksonville, acknowledged Thursday that Atlanta has problems that aren't easily dismissed. He was noncommittal when asked about the four quarterbacks currently on the roster, Byron Leftwich, Joey Harrington, Chris Redman and D.J. Shockley. "I haven't studied those guys or met with them," Smith said. "Before too long, I plan to sit and meet with each of them. I know Byron from our time together in Jacksonville, and when I worked with the Ravens, Chris was a third-round draft pick. But we'll figure out the quarterback situation soon enough."
Analysis: Leftwich would likely have the edge to start, although Redman played well down the stretch. Harrington is best suited as a backup, and Shockley is a long-shot to be an NFL starter. Go into 2008 with the Falcons' QB situation up in the air, and consider the winner of the competition -- unless they bring in someone else -- a backup option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: After being cut before the start of the regular season in Jacksonville, Byron Leftwich signed on with the Falcons in Week 3. He didn't play until Week 5 and started in Week 6. He got hurt, then came back to start in Week 11 and didn't play in another game the rest of the season. In his audition to be the Falcons' future quarterback, Leftwich completed 32-of-58 passes (55.2 pct.) for 279 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and two fumbles lost in three total appearances.
Analysis: Leftwich is under contract with Atlanta and might stick with the club as they transition to a new regime. He still has a strong arm but is clearly injury-prone and immobile in the pocket. Unless he comes out gunning in the preseason and is named the Falcons' starter, you can forget about him being relevant in Fantasy play.
News: Falcons WR Joe Horn (foot), QB Byron Leftwich (coach's decision), DB Antoine Harris (knee), TE Courtney Anderson (coach's decision) and DL Tim Anderson (knee) were named inactive for Atlanta's Week 16 game at Arizona. For the Cardinals, QB Tim Hasselbeck (coach's decision), WR Jamaica Rector (coach's decision), DB Bhawoh Jue (coach's decision), LB Brandon Johnson (coach's decision), DL Ross Kolodziej (quads) and DL Bo Schobel (coach's decision) were also named inactive.
Analysis: Horn and Leftwich are the only players with any Fantasy value in this list, and theirs is minimal at best. Be sure to bench them all in Week 16.
News: The Falcons listed the following players as inactive for Week 15 at Tampa Bay: QB Byron Leftwich (third QB), DB Antoine Harris (knee), DL Jesse Mahelona (coach's decision), TE Courtney Anderson (coach's decision).
Analysis: None of the players on this list are in a position to help Fantasy owners. Leave them on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: The Falcons recently appointed Chris Redman their starting quarterback and listed Joey Harrington as inactive for Week 14 against the Saints, meaning Byron Leftwich now serves as the team's backup signal caller. He did not record a stat against the Saints.
Analysis: Leftwich had his chance to start for the Falcons, but he blew it. Now, he'll only have Fantasy value if Redman blows his chance or succumbs to injury. Leave him on waivers for Week 15 at Tampa Bay.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich was named among the inactives for Atlanta's Week 13 game at St. Louis. He will serve as the emergency third QB.
Analysis: Leftwich has been benched for Joey Harrington in Atlanta, so he will only be a backup when his tailbone gets better. You should release him in all formats and find a better reserve QB option at this point.
News: The Falcons listed QB Byron Leftwich as inactive for Week 12 against the Colts. He didn't practice leading up to the game because of a tailbone injury.
Analysis: Earlier this week, the Falcons announced that Joey Harrington would start the game, seemingly signaling a demotion for Leftwich. He's taking up a roster spot on your Fantasy team at this point. Even if he did get healthy and play, he likely wouldn't post good numbers. The Falcons visit the Rams in Week 13.
News: For the second straight day, Falcons backup QB Byron Leftwich did not practice with a tailbone injury and is doubtful for Week 12 vs. Indianapolis on Thanksgiving Day. Earlier this week, the Falcons announced that Joey Harrington would start the game.
Analysis: Leftwich is taking up a roster spot on your Fantasy team at this point. Even if he did get healthy and play, he wouldn't be expected to post good numbers. Get him off your bench if he's there, and keep him on the waiver wire if he's not.
News: NFL Network reported that the Falcons have named Joey Harrington their starting QB for Week 12 vs. Indianapolis. Harrington replaced Byron Leftwich last week and completed 16-of-20 passes for 139 yards, throwing a seven-yard touchdown pass to Adam Jennings.
Analysis: Harrington doesn't have the arm strength that Byron Leftwich has, but managed to lead the Falcons to a pair of wins in Weeks 9 and 10. Leftwich has not fared well at all this season and should remain on the waiver wire in all leagues.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich, out for two games with a high ankle sprain, returned to the starting lineup Week 11 against the Buccaneers. However, the Falcons benched him for Joey Harrington late in the third quarter after he couldn't lead the team to a score. He finished 15-for-28 passing for 106 yards. He also threw two interceptions and lost a fumble that Ronde Barber returned for a touchdown. At that point, the Georgia Dome crowd broke into chants of "Joey! Joey! Joey!" and booed Leftwich every time he came on the field. "Yeah, and it happened pretty early, man," Leftwich said. "Things weren't really going bad. As a player, all I can do is play my butt off and try to lead and help this football team win."
Analysis: Head coach Bobby Petrino now sounds as though he might go back to Harrington for Thursday night's game against the Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts. "We've got a lot to evaluate in front of us," he said. "We need to take a good look at this video and see who gives us the best opportunity to win the game Thursday. That's what we need to do. When that happens, I can't tell you." Really, neither Leftwich nor Harrington makes for an advisable start Week 12, and we advise you to steer clear of both until the Falcons sort out this mess they've created.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich was starting Sunday for the Falcons against the Buccaneers ahead of Joey Harrington, who had led Atlanta to two straight wins. Coach Bobby Petrino did not announce a starter during the week, though he confirmed earlier statements that Leftwich, returning from an ankle injury, is the team's starter when healthy.
Analysis: Consider Leftwich a No. 2 option against the Bucs at best. Harrington should be reserved in all leagues.
News: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that while Falcons coach Bobby Petrino was not ready to name his starting QB for Week 11 vs. Tampa Bay, he was optimistic Byron Leftwich would be ready to play based on a report from the team's trainer. Petrino said earlier this week that Leftwich would start for the club when he's healthy, not Joey Harrington, who led the team to their two most recent victories. "I was happy with the report I got this morning from the trainer that there wasn't any increased swelling or stiffness after yesterday's practice," Petrino said. "Again, we have to see ... what (Friday) brings because it's really the first time that he's worked real hard on it for two days in a row for three weeks."
Analysis: Leftwich struggled after replacing Harrington during a loss at Tennessee, going 2-of-8 for 28 yards with an interception. He looked much better in his lone start, completing 15-of-23 for 145 yards and a touchdown before getting hurt on Atlanta's first possession of the second half. Whether it's Harrington or Leftwich, neither Falcons QB isn't worth starting in Fantasy play in Week 11 as anything more than a No. 3 QB. But we will say this: The Falcons might be checking out Leftwich to be their quarterback of the future, and that might lead to him being their starter in 2008.
News: Even though Joey Harrington led Atlanta to two straight victories, Byron Leftwich remains the No. 1 quarterback for the Falcons. Coach Bobby Petrino made it clear Wednesday that Leftwich will reclaim the starting spot as soon as he's healthy. Petrino isn't sure if Leftwich will be healthy enough to play Sunday in a suddenly crucial game against NFC South rival Tampa Bay. Asked if he was concerned about hurting the team's continuity by changing quarterbacks again, Petrino said, "Yeah, sure, it's something you worry about. But to be honest with you, we made the decision a while back that Byron is the starter and Joey is the backup. Right now, it's just a health issue."
Analysis: Leftwich struggled after replacing Harrington during a loss at Tennessee, going 2-of-8 for 28 yards with an interception. He looked much better in his lone start, completing 15-of-23 for 145 yards and a touchdown before getting hurt on Atlanta's first possession of the second half. Whether it's Harrington or Leftwich, neither Falcons QB isn't worth starting in Fantasy play in Week 11.
News: The Falcons listed QB Byron Leftwich (ankle, doubtful), RB Jerious Norwood (ankle, questionable), LB Travis Williams (coach's decision), WR Joe Horn (hamstring, questionable) and DL Tim Anderson (coach's decision) as inactive for Week 10 at Carolina.
Analysis: Norwood and Horn are the only players on this list you should even start to consider in Fantasy leagues, but they have been low-end starters at best when healthy. Reserve them until further notice. The rest of the players on this list should be left on the waiver wire.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is listed as doubtful for Week 10 at Carolina. He did not practice all week. Falcons coach Bobby Petrino wasn't clear Monday on when Leftwich might return from ankle surgery. Leftwich has now missed two games with the injury.
Analysis: It's doubtful Leftwich will return for Week 10 at Carolina. If healthy, Leftwich would be considered a No. 2 option at best, but don't count on it at this juncture.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) did not practice Wednesday or Thursday as the team prepares for Week 10 at Carolina. Falcons coach Bobby Petrino wasn't clear Monday on when Leftwich might return from ankle surgery. Leftwich has now missed two games with the injury.
Analysis: It's doubtful Leftwich will return for Week 10 at Carolina, but continue to monitor his status. If healthy, Leftwich would be considered a No. 2 option at best.
News: Falcons coach Bobby Petrino wasn't clear Monday on when QB Byron Leftwich might return from ankle surgery. Leftwich has now missed two games with the injury.
Analysis: It's doubtful Leftwich will return for Week 10 at Carolina, but continue to monitor his status. If healthy, Leftwich would be considered a No. 2 option at best.
News: The Falcons listed QB Byron Leftwich (ankle), TE Alge Crumpler (knee, ankle), RB Artose Pinner (coach's decision), LB Stephen Nicholas (ankle) and DL Tim Anderson (coach's decision) as inactive for Week 9 vs. the Falcons.
Analysis: Crumpler and Leftwich are the only two players worth owning in Fantasy at this time, but they are both low-end options for now. Crumpler will have another full week to recover in time for Week 10 at Carolina and should be healthy for that game. Leftwich will jump back into a QB controversy when he's healthy. Keep the rest of these players on the waiver wire.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is out for Week 9 vs. San Francisco. It will be the second straight game he misses.
Analysis: Leftwich will likely inherit his starting job back in Atlanta when he is healthy again, unless Joey Harrington suddenly remembers how to play the position properly in his absence. Still, Leftwich is not worth owning except in the deepest of leagues at this point.
News: Falcons QB Byron Leftwich, who had surgery on his right ankle last week, was walking without the aid of crutches on Monday, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "I'm feeling good about everything," Leftwich said. "I think I'm ahead of schedule. As you can see I'm walking around. I'm happy about that." Leftwich was injured in Week 7, and the team initially thought he'd be out 2-4 weeks.
Analysis: Leftwich will likely inherit his starting job back in Atlanta when he is healthy again, unless Joey Harrington suddenly remembers how to play the position properly in his absence. Still, Leftwich is not worth owning except in the deepest of leagues at this point. Atlanta host San Francisco in Week 9.
News: Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich underwent surgery on his right ankle Wednesday and will be out three to four weeks. Leftwich sustained a high ankle sprain against New Orleans in Week 7. The surgical procedure will help speed the recovery process, coach Bobby Petrino said. "He had a procedure done this morning that is a very aggressive procedure," Petrino said after practice. "They actually go in and put a couple screws in there and it helps it heal faster."
Analysis: Joey Harrington will start in Leftwich's place. Unless you're holding on to him in a keeper league, it's safe to let Leftwich go. Harrington is not a recommended long-term Fantasy option other than as a No. 3 QB.
News: According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Falcons QB Byron Leftwich could be back this season but there is no certainty as to when. An MRI exam was administered to Leftwich's lower right leg Monday morning, but coach Bobby Petrino did not disclose the nature of the injury. Leftwich was hurt while making his first start for the Falcons in Sunday's 22-16 loss at New Orleans. "I'm hoping Byron's on a timetable that he's back at some point," Petrino said, offering no time frame for his return. If Leftwich's injury is a high ankle sprain, he could be out for at least two weeks if not longer because of the potential trickiness of the injury.
Analysis: The Falcons are off Week 8 and Leftwich will likely be re-evaluated for Week 9. Continue to monitor his progress, but even when healthy, Leftwich is a No. 2 Fantasy option at best.
News: After breathing a glimmer of life into the Falcons offense for the first time all season Week 7 at New Orleans, leading it to 13 points in one half, new starting QB Byron Leftwich left early in the third quarter with a high ankle sprain. He did not return. He finished 15-of-23 passing for 145 yards and a touchdown. The score came on a nine-yard bullet to Roddy White in the second quarter. "I was happy with the way he performed," head coach Bobby Petrino said. "He was standing in there. He made good throws. The injury certainly hurt." Leftwich also ran three times for six yards.
Analysis: Leftwich showed impressive arm strength and probably did enough to retain the starting job once he returns from the injury. How much time he'll miss remains in question, but Fox reported him out for 2-4 weeks. Leftwich himself was too upset to talk about it after the game. "It's really, really frustrating out there right now, man," he began. "I'm sorry, but I just can't do this." Since the Falcons have a bye in Week 8, he might have enough time to recover. If he does, he'll serve as a No. 2 Fantasy QB in Week 9 against the 49ers. If he doesn't, Joey Harrington would replace him.
News: Byron Leftwich has replaced Joey Harrington as the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback. Hoping to spark an offense that's struggled without suspended quarterback Michael Vick, coach Bobby Petrino said Wednesday he plans to keep Leftwich as his starter for the rest of the season. "He has a very strong arm," Petrino said. "He throws the ball deep down the field, and he just needs to be able to see it, and I have the confidence that he can put it in there. I think he'll do well." The decision wasn't difficult for Petrino after the offense failed to score off three New York turnovers on Monday night. The Giants won 31-10, dropping Atlanta to 1-5. Petrino indicated that Leftwich might have played against New York if he hadn't missed so much practice time with a mild ankle sprain last week.
Analysis: Leftwich, who went 24-20 in four years with Jacksonville, signed a two-year contract last month with Atlanta after being released. In his only appearance with Atlanta, Leftwich was 2-of-8 for 28 yards and one interception after replacing Harrington in the fourth quarter of a 20-13 loss at Tennessee in Week 5.P etrino decided in a staff meeting on Tuesday to bench Harrington and go with Leftwich. "I brought them both in early this morning and met with them," Petrino said. "I wanted to make sure Joey knew first, then I brought Byron in." Leftwich is worth a flier in all Fantasyleagues (the offense in Atlanta calls for a lot of passing), but treat him as a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 7 against the Saints despite the favorable matchup.
News: ESPN reports that the Falcons will start Byron Leftwich at quarterback at New Orleans in Week 7. The move comes as a surprise after Leftwich was moved to third string less than a week ago. Joey Harrington is expected to back up Leftwich.
Analysis: We have not been able to confirm this story through another source, but either way, whomever starts for the Falcons would be at best a middle-end No. 2 Fantasy QB in Week 7. Even with the Saints defense offering a decent matchup, there's not much to like about Atlanta's offense. Leftwich is worth a flier in all leagues (the offense in Atlanta calls for a lot of passing), but he's not expected to start for Fantasy owners anytime soon.
News: The Falcons listed QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) as inactive for Week 6 against the Giants. He did not practice Friday but insisted he'd play Monday.
Analysis: X-rays on the ankle were negative, and the sprain shouldn't keep Leftwich out for long. He had recently risen to No. 2 on the Falcons depth chart -- and even played Week 5 at Tennessee -- but the injury, for now, will stunt his progress in supplanting the incumbent Joey Harrington.
News: Just as Byron Leftwich was celebrating his increased practice time with the Atlanta Falcons, the quarterback left the field Thursday after twisting his right ankle. For Leftwich, it's a painfully familiar story. Leftwich missed 15 games with injuries the last two years with the Jacksonville Jaguars, including 10 games with a bad ankle. The good news for Leftwich this time: The injury is not serious, and it's not the same ankle that shut down his 2006 season. "It's OK. It's a minor sprain," Leftwich said, adding the Falcons' medical staff "didn't want me to do anything further to it." Leftwich said X-rays on the ankle were negative. "I took the rest of (Thursday's) practice off and we'll see how it feels in the morning," he said. Leftwich did not practice Friday and is listed as questionable for Week 6 vs. N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Leftwich, who was released by the Jaguars late in the preseason, signed with Atlanta on Sept. 18 and made his first appearance in last week's loss to Tennessee. Leftwich was only 2-of-8 passing for 28 yards with an interception in relief against the Titans. But it was enough that coach Bobby Petrino said Leftwich had moved up to No. 2 on the depth chart behind starter Joey Harrington. Leftwich said the most important part of moving up the depth chart is the increased snaps with receivers Michael Jenkins, Roddy White, Joe Horn and the rest of the first-team offense in practice. "I'm going to be ready to play," Leftwich said. Leftwich heads into Monday night's game against the Giants as the Falcons backup, but might see some game action. That's not enough to start him in Fantasy leagues at this time.
News: Rookie coach Bobby Petrino insisted Monday that Joey Harrington is still the Falcons' No. 1 quarterback, but Byron Leftwich is waiting in the wings for his chance to lead the struggling team. Harrington was yanked early in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss at Tennessee after completing 16 of 31 passes for 87 yards. Leftwich was even worse, completing just 2 of 8 for 28 yards and tossing a crucial interception with less than four minutes to go. "Our best chance of success is to stay with Joey," Petrino said, having reviewed film of the miserable offensive performance. "I think he understands our offense. He knows what we want to do and how we want to execute."
Analysis: The Falcons have other things to worry about besides the quarterback. Wayne Gandy, the most established member of the offensive line, went out with a knee injury on Atlanta's next-to-last snap. The 14-year veteran was getting an MRI exam on Monday, but the coach is already talking as though he knows that Gandy's season is over. If Gandy is done, the Falcons will have to go with Renardo Foster, an undrafted rookie, at the crucial left tackle position. That's not going to help whomever is under center for the Falcons. Harrington remains no better than a No. 2 Fantasy QB and is now a lukewarm bye-week replacement option when he and the Falcons host the Giants in Week 6. Leftwich still shouldn't be owned in Fantasy play.
News: According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, coach Bobby Petrino hasn't decided yet who will be the Falcons QB in Week 6 against the Giants. Joey Harrington, who has started all season, was benched Sunday against Tennessee in favor of Byron Leftwich after Harrington struggled to start the game. "This was a change that we made in the middle of the game; we haven't made any decisions on where we go from here," Petrino said. "We certainly have a lot of video to look at. Any time you're not executing like we weren't offensively it's not one guy's fault, but sometimes you try to give a spark when you make a change."
Analysis: For now, keep Harrington and Leftwich reserved in all Fantasy leagues until a decision is made. Both would be a No. 2 option at best against the Giants depending on who starts.
News: The quarterback controversy begins in Atlanta. Joey Harrington started Week 5 at the Titans, but he didn't finish it. After he completed 16 of 31 passes for only 87 yards, throwing an interception and taking two sacks, the Falcons replaced him with Byron Leftwich midway through the fourth quarter. Leftwich went 2-for-8 for 28 yards. He also threw an interception and failed to get the Falcons into the end zone from inside the 10 yard line to tie the game before the end of regulation.
Analysis: Harrington looked bad, but Leftwich didn't look much better. The former Jaguar appeared nervous in his relief outing, with more of his passes landing in the stands than in his receivers' hands. (Yes, it sounds like a joke, but, no, we're not kidding.) The Falcons have clearly wavered in their commitment to Harrington, but where they go from here remains to be seen. For now, neither Harrington nor Leftwich deserves to start in Fantasy leagues Week 6 against the Giants, but Harrington's Fantasy owners should prepare to add Leftwich if the Falcons announce a permanent change later in the week.
News: The Falcons list of inactives for Week 5 at the Titans includes QB Byron Leftwich, DB Daren Stone, DL Rod Coleman, TE Dwayne Blakley and DL Jonathan Babineaux.
Analysis: These players all either sit low on the depth chart on offense or don't contribute meaningful statistics on defense. None deserves Fantasy consideration even when active.
News: For the second straight game, Falcons listed newly signed QB Byron Leftwich as inactive for Week 4 against the Texans, labeling him their No. 3 quarterback.
Analysis: As expected, the Falcons want Leftwich behind Joey Harrington and Chris Redman on the depth chart while he learns the offense. Leftwich might take over as starter eventually, but not if Harrington keeps posting 300-yard games like he did in Week 4. Keep Leftwich on the waiver wire in all leagues for now but monitor his progress in the coming weeks.
News: The Falcons listed newly signed QB Byron Leftwich as inactive for Week 3 against the Panthers, labeling him their No. 3 quarterback.
Analysis: As expected, the Falcons want Leftwich behind Joey Harrington and Chris Redman on the depth chart until he learns the offense. At that point, depending on the progress (or lack thereof) Harrington has made, Leftwich might take over as the starter. Keep him on the waiver wire in all leagues for now but monitor his progress in the coming weeks.
News: The Falcons signed former Jacksonville quarterback Byron Leftwich on Tuesday, giving the team immediate depth and a potential contender for the starting job. Leftwich's agent, Tom Condon, said the former first-round draft pick passed a physical, worked out for the team and signed a two-year, $7 million deal. Condon said the 27-year-old Leftwich already was studying film and would join the team for Wednesday's practice. Falcons coach Bobby Petrino said Monday that Joey Harrington, Atlanta's current starter, is holding the ball too long and showing a lack of confidence in his play. That could open the door for Leftwich to play soon.
Analysis: For now, Leftwich will be the team's No. 3/emergency QB behind Harrington and Chris Redman. However, once Leftwich is up to speed on the playbook -- and Harrington continues to stumble -- expect to see the ex-Jaguar. We happen to like Leftwich's fit into the Falcons' scheme, which calls for lots of downfield passing, Leftwich's specialty. Only add Leftwich in leagues with very deep rosters and/or keeper leagues at this point, but keep his name in mind as the season rolls along.
News: Following a disappointing Week 2 loss at Jacksonville -- one in which the Jaguars sacked QB Joey Harrington seven times -- the Atlanta Falcons met with former Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich Monday night to determine if they wanted to sign him, according to published reports. if he signs, he'll reportedly join as the team's No. 3 quarterback behind Harrington and Chris Redman.
Analysis: Leftwich's signing wouldn't help Fantasy owners -- at least not right away. If Harrington continues to struggle, though, who knows? Don't add Leftwich to your team even if the Falcons add him to theirs, but continue to track his situation. He'll still likely have little to no Fantasy value in 2007.
News: The Baltimore Sun reports that the Ravens are among those teams that have contacted agent Tom Condon about possibly signing QB Byron Leftwich. The paper reports that GM Ozzie Newsome has had "a couple of small conversations" about Leftwich with Condon.
Analysis: No matter where he signs, Leftwich will ultimately be a backup who is not expected to help Fantasy owners this season. Owners in keeper leagues may consider drafting Leftwich late since by 2008, he could not only be a starter but also at full health after sitting on the bench for a year.
News: It was expected, but still a shocker: Byron Leftwich was cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars on Saturday. The seventh overall pick in the 2003 draft and the Jags' starting quarterback for nearly every game since then when he was healthy, Leftwich was released after losing the starting job to David Garrard. Coach Jack Del Rio had said Friday, when he made the decision, that Leftwich would either be traded or released but that announcement in itself made it difficult to make a deal for him.
Analysis: Leftwich, often troubled by injuries and lacking mobility, missed 10 games last season because of an ankle injury. He was 19-of-38 passing for 226 yards and a touchdown in three preseason games. But he played with the starters while Garrard completed 36 of 47 passes for 456 yards and a touchdown mostly against backups. Leftwich shouldn't be dropped in Fantasy leagues yet until we know where he'll be playing and if he'll be starting. He could land in a very good situation.
News: NFL Network is among those reporting Friday that the Jaguars have named David Garrard their starting quarterback for Week 1 vs. Tennessee. Coach Jack Del Rio had said previously that Byron Leftwich would be the club's starter, but the team is planning to trade or release Leftwich. Garrard had a better preseason statistically. Garrard finished the preseason completing 36-of-47 for 456 yards and a touchdown and no interceptions. He had a 113.4 passer rating. By contrast, Leftwich completed 19 of 38 for 226 yards in three preseason games and a touchdown and no interceptions. He had a 77.3 passer rating, which is close to his lifetime passer rating of 80.5.
Analysis: Garrard is now thrust into No. 2 Fantasy QB territory, albeit on the low end, while Leftwich's future is up in the air. Because Garrard will post decent rushing stats, he'll be worth owning as a backup, especially if you already have Leftwich. Moreover, Leftwich shouldn't be dropped yet until we know where he'll be playing and if he'll be starting.
News: Quarterback Byron Leftwich has a message for anyone watching Jacksonville's offense in the preseason: Don't panic. Leftwich, who has thrown for 226 yards and a touchdown in three preseason games, is confident things will get better and points will come more often when the regular season begins. "I understand everybody's concerns, but don't panic," Leftwich said Sunday. "This is not the time to panic -- in the preseason. It's too early to panic. Let us get out there a few games -- Week 3, Week 4 -- then judge us on what you really see. Once it all gets started, that's what we are."
Analysis: Leftwich missed 10 games last season because of an ankle injury and nearly lost his starting job. But coach Jack Del Rio stuck with the former first-round draft pick and gave him a new offensive coordinator and several new receivers. The results were expected to be noticeable, especially since the Jaguars dedicated most of training camp and the preseason to fine-tuning the passing game. But the new offense has looked a lot like the old one, which ranked 24th in the NFL in passing last season. "Everything's going to be OK," said Leftwich. Let's hope so. Leftwich should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB and a decent low-end backup. He's playing for a contract this year, so that could provide extra motivation.
News: The Green Bay Packers lost their unbeaten preseason record in a 21-13 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lambeau Field on Thursday night. After sputtering under starting quarterback Byron Leftwich, the Jaguars' offense woke up when backup David Garrard entered the game early in the third quarter. Playing against the Packers' second-string defense, Garrard played two series and led the Jaguars (2-1) to two touchdowns. Leftwich was 6-of-16 for 67 yards, often dodging pressure from the Packers' defensive line - the Jaguars were missing two starting offensive linemen -- and overthrowing open receivers several times.
Analysis: Leftwich has had a pretty good preseason to date, so don't look too much into Thursday's performance. Leftwich should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB and a decent low-end backup. He's playing for a contract this year, so that could provide extra motivation.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich doesn't put a lot of stock in preseason games other than getting his timing down with the receivers. But as far as game-planning and knowing the other team's defense, most clubs don't give it a lot of attention. That makes preparation for a preseason game a tough task, the Jaguars fifth-year quarterback said. Leftwich hit just two of his first seven passes but came on strong in the second quarter (albeit against the Buccaneers' No. 2 defensive unit) to hit four of his next five throws for 69 yards.
Analysis: Leftwich should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB and a decent low-end backup. He's playing for a contract this year, so that could provide extra motivation.
News: QB Byron Leftwich was 6-of-12 for 81 yards vs. Tampa Bay in the club's second preseason game. Leftwich was sacked once, hit a couple more times and nearly half his yardage came following a missed tackle. Leftwich was 2-of-6 for 12 yards in three series against Tampa Bay's first-team defense. He played long after most of the Bucs' starters were lifted and took advantage of the mismatch. "We started off slow, but we finished the first quarter and the beginning of the second quarter strong," Leftwich said. His biggest play came on a short pass to Maurice Jones-Drew, who bounced off Adam Hayward's tackle and raced 38 yards to the 2.
Analysis: In two games, Leftwich has not received the pass protection we were hoping to see from the Jags' offensive line. That's not good considering that Leftwich is definitely prone to injury. If his O-line can't stop the rush now, there's no chance they can do it during the regular season. View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health, receiving corps and performance.
News: The Jacksonville Jaguars ended training camp Wednesday believing their passing game has improved under first-year offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter. "Significant improvement," coach Jack Del Rio said. "We feel good about the start we have. ... Our offense has put some stress on our defense consistently throughout camp, and I think that's a good sign for our football team." The Jaguars focused on the passing game from the first day of camp, trying to get quarterback Byron Leftwich, backup David Garrard and a retooled receiving unit up to speed with Koetter's pass-first offense. They looked good in the preseason opener at Miami. Leftwich was 7-of-10 for 78 yards and a touchdown, and two of his incompletions were dropped passes. Garrard was 12-of-16 for 153 yards.
Analysis: The first preseason game was a strong start for an offense that ranked 24th in the league in passing last season. Leftwich, who missed 10 games in 2006 because of an ankle injury, hopes to be even better Saturday night against Tampa Bay. "The next step for me and the offense is to go out and continue executing," Leftwich said. "This is part two of the process, but at the same time, you want to have some success. You want to get better from last week." As long as Leftwich stays healthy, he might finally develop into a solid QB. View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health and performance, but could be a real sleeper.
News: Byron Leftwich was 7-for-11 passing for 78 yards and a touchdown during Saturday's preseason game against the Dolphins in his first game for Jacksonville since a loss against the Houston Texans on Oct. 22, when he suffered a sprained left ankle and later had season-ending surgery. "We had some good stuff," Leftwich said. "We also had some missed assignments up front where we could have had some big plays but that is what the preseason is for. We will be OK. We are still fine-tuning everything."
Analysis: Leftwich dazzled Miami when he managed to stay off the ground. He was pressured constantly by the Dolphins defense, who played without reigning defensive player of the year Jason Taylor and stars Zach Thomas and Keith Traylor. All three were not in uniform, but Miami still managed to sack Leftwich and hurry him several other times. Leftwich didn't have a problem with accuracy either. Two of his four incompletions were dropped passes by Matt Jones. As long as Leftwich stays healthy, he might finally develop into a solid QB. View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health and performance, but could be a real sleeper.
News: Training camp began with some quarterback issues for the Jaguars -- starter Byron Leftwich hasn't played since October, and reserve David Garrard flashed greatness in 10 starts last season. How quickly things have changed. Less than two weeks into camp, Leftwich has dazzled coaches and reclaimed the position. He said he's looking forward to playing his first game since a loss against the Houston Texans Oct. 22, when he sprained his left ankle and later had season-ending surgery. "Personally, it's been a long time since I have been out there," Leftwich said. "It's going to be fun to get back out there, competing in the form and fashion you need to compete in to win football games in the regular season."
Analysis: Aside from his injury problems, Leftwich never felt comfortable in any of Jacksonville's offenses. He worked his first two years under Bill Musgrave, then spent the last two with Carl Smith. Neither of them could keep Leftwich healthy or happy. Former Arizona State coach Dirk Koetter, now Jacksonville's offensive coordinator, hopes to accomplish both. As long as Leftwich stays healthy, he might finally develop into a solid QB. View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health and performance, but could be a real sleeper.
News: Byron Leftwich might finally be paired with the right offensive coordinator. Leftwich, working with his third coordinator in five seasons, completed 12 of 17 passes for 181 yards and a touchdown in Jacksonville's first scrimmage of training camp Friday night. He looked confident and comfortable from the start, completing 11 of his first 12 passes while directing the offense to a field goal and a touchdown. "What you just got a glimpse of is what our offense is going to be about this year: we're going to have an explosive offense," coach Jack Del Rio said. "Byron Leftwich has had a tremendous camp."
Analysis: Leftwich missed 10 games last season with a broken ankle. Aside from his injury problems, he never felt comfortable in any of Jacksonville's offenses. He worked his first two years under Bill Musgrave, then spent the last two with Carl Smith. Neither of them could keep Leftwich healthy or happy. Former Arizona State coach Dirk Koetter, now Jacksonville's offensive coordinator, hopes to accomplish both. So far, so good. "It's almost like my offense, to be honest with you," Leftwich said. "I feel as though it was meant for me and Coach Koetter to work together." As long as Leftwich stays healthy, he might finally develop into a solid QB. View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health and performance, but could be a real sleeper.
News: Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich opened his fifth training camp Saturday with two new starting receivers, a new tight end, a new offensive coordinator, a new quarterbacks coach and the same ol' question that has lingered most of his career. Can he stay healthy for an entire season? "Nobody's more frustrated about it than me," Leftwich said. "I just want to get out there and show everybody that I can still play. I don't like being there on the side injured and I don't think nobody wants to see me out there that way."
Analysis: Leftwich has missed 17 games the last three seasons, making it difficult for the offense to sustain any kind of rhythm and continually derailing a playoff-caliber team. Leftwich expects that to change this year, mostly because he had surgery to repair an injured left ankle that had bothered him since college. "I've got a perfect ankle right now," Leftwich said. "Now that I have it fixed, hopefully I won't have that problem anymore." View Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with so many questions surrounding his health and performance.
News: In an interview with CBS SportsLine, Jaguars offensive coordinator Dirk Koetter did not waver on Leftwich's status: "Byron is the starting quarterback of the Jaguars." There's talk of the club acquiring Daunte Culpepper, but Koetter said any quarterback the club would sign would join only in a backup capacity. Koetter added that Leftwich has looked great and seems to be advancing with the offensive system. "I've been very happy with Byron and the way he's embraced what we're doing systemwise and what we've asked him to do," Koetter said. "I like his attitude on the field and the way he comes to work. He's very, very smart and he knows what he's looking at and really sees the field well. ... (Leftwich and I) are very confident that he'll play very well."
Analysis: Leftwich has a cannon for an arm but has been hampered by leg injuries throughout his career. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB, worth a late-round pick as a backup in 2007 Fantasy play if he stays in Jacksonville. After the way David Garrard played last year, there's no way the Jags can go with anyone but Leftwich. He'll also be a free agent after the '07 season, which may motivate him to play well.
News: Byron Leftwich practiced with the Jacksonville Jaguars for the first time in nearly seven months Tuesday. He said he has no pain in his ankle and feels healthy. Leftwich missed 15 games the last two seasons because of an injured left ankle. He had surgery last November, more than a month after Del Rio benched him in favor of David Garrard. Del Rio made Leftwich the starter in February, hoping to avoid months of speculation heading into training camp. Leftwich, who expected to return to his starting role when healthy, would like to play every game for the first time in his career. "The worst thing that can happen is to have something happen to me and then boom, they'll say, 'That guy is a bum. He can't do anything,'" Leftwich said. "I know if I'm on that field, people will stop questioning my ability to play the game of football. So I'm going to worry about what I need to do, and what I need to do is make sure I'm out there on that field."
Analysis: Leftwich has a cannon for an arm but has been hampered by leg injuries throughout his career. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB, worth a late-round pick as a backup in 2007 Fantasy play if he stays in Jacksonville. After the way David Garrard played last year, there's no way the Jags can go with anyone but Leftwich. He'll also be a free agent after the '07 season, which may motivate him to play well.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich has not asked for a trade, according to his agent, and expects to head into training camp as the Jaguars' starting quarterback, something coach Jack Del Rio has already said. His agent did not say whether or not his client would show up for the offseason workouts and minicamps in Jacksonville.
Analysis: Leftwich has a cannon for an arm but has been hampered by leg injuries throughout his career. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB, worth a late-round pick as a backup in 2007 Fantasy play if he stays in Jacksonville. After the way David Garrard played last year, there's no way the Jags can go with anyone but Leftwich.
News: The Florida Times-Union has an interesting story on Byron Leftwich, who has been silent since being named the Jaguars' starting quarterback a week ago. Did the Jaguars name Leftwich the starter just so they could get the most for him in a trade? One rumor making the rounds is that Jacksonville will deal Leftwich to Oakland for disgruntled wide receiver Randy Moss.
Analysis: Leftwich has a cannon for an arm but has been hampered by leg injuries throughout his career. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB, worth a late-round pick as a backup in 2007 Fantasy play if he stays in Jacksonville, though we do like the prospect of him in Oakland quite a bit.
News: Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio said at the NFL Combine that Byron Leftwich will return to his starting role, ending speculation about what the Jaguars would do at the position. "When you evaluate Byron and stack him up against the rest of the league, he's one of the young, really good, strong-armed quarterbacks out there," Del Rio said. "He's had some developmental setbacks the last two years because of injuries. But we really feel he's ready to take the next step and take it to the next level." Leftwich started the first six games last season, then was benched for Garrard -- a move Del Rio described as awkward. Leftwich eventually had ankle surgery and was placed on injured reserve. Del Rio said they talked for three hours after the Super Bowl in an effort to iron out their differences.
Analysis: Leftwich has a cannon for an arm but has been hampered by leg injuries throughout his career. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB, worth a late-round pick as a backup in 2007 Fantasy play.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, Tom Condon, the agent for QB Byron Leftwich, said Wednesday he plans to meet with Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio sometime before the new NFL calendar year starts in March to discuss the quarterback's future. "I'm going to have a conversation with the Jaguars at some point to see what they're thinking about," Condon said. Condon declined to say whether Leftwich is open to staying with the Jaguars or whether he'll request a trade. "It doesn't do me any good to speculate or talk about that kind of stuff," Condon said. "I have to gather the facts before I say anything or do anything." Leftwich underwent surgery on his injured ankle Nov. 21 and was placed on the injured reserve list Dec. 1.
Analysis: Expect Leftwich to return to Jacksonville. Consider him a No. 2 QB going into the season.
News: Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said that his starting QB job for 2007 would be an open competition. Byron Leftwich started 2006 as the starter, but hurt his ankle and eventually lost the job to David Garrard. Garrard did well for a few weeks before nosediving, and he was replaced in the Week 17 finale (when the Jaguars still had playoff hopes) by Quinn Gray. Jacksonville QBs totaled 17 TDs and 14 interceptions this season, with Garrard and Gray each rushing for two (yes, both of Gray's TDs came in the season finale at Kansas City).
Analysis: Whomever lands the job in Jacksonville will have three potential-laden receivers and a second-year tight end to work with -- not to mention a reception-worthy duo of RBs in Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor. Monitor this situation throughout the offseason, but consider Leftwich to be the front-runner with Garrard and Grey in the mix, though don't discount Jacksonville signing or drafting a quarterback to add to the competition.
News: The Jaguars placed quarterback Byron Leftwich on injured reserve Friday, officially ending his season 10 days after ankle surgery. Leftwich started the first six games, completing 59 percent of his passes for 1,159 yards, with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. He said he initially hurt his left ankle Oct. 1 at Washington, and the injury flared up nearly two weeks later. Leftwich convinced coaches he could play at Houston, then performed poorly in a loss. He was benched the following week in favor of David Garrard, who has led the Jaguars to a 3-2 record since replacing Leftwich.
Analysis: Leftwich should have an interesting offseason as he rehabs his ankle and possibly parts ways with the Jaguars. Both will be developments worth watching because if he lands on a team as a starter and is healthy, he could be a solid Fantasy option in 2007 league play. He can be safely dropped in 2006 seasonal leagues.
News: Notable Jaguars inactive for Week 12 vs. Buffalo include: QB Byron Leftwich, DB Terry Cousin, RB LaBrandon Toefield, DB Brian Williams, DL Kenny Pettway, WR Cortez Hankton and DL James Wyche.
Analysis: Keep these players reserved for Fantasy purposes in Week 12.
News: Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio said Wednesday that QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) might be placed on Injured Reserve in the near future. Leftwich had ankle surgery on Tuesday in Birmingham, Ala. "I don't think we'll get (Leftwich) back for the regular season," Del Rio said. Del Rio is comfortable with David Garrard as his starter going forward but refused to speculate whether or not Garrard would be the starter in 2007.
Analysis: Leftwich should have been off most Fantasy rosters by now anyway, but this should ice him as a drop in all leagues. Keeper-wise, Leftwich could end up starting somewhere else in 2007, so he may be worth hanging onto in those formats. As for Garrard, consider him a low-end starting option at Buffalo in Week 12.
News: Notable Jaguars inactive for Week 11 vs. N.Y. Giants include: Byron Leftwich (third QB), DB Terry Cousin, RB LaBrandon Toefield, DB Ahmad Carroll, DB Jamaal Fudge, DL James Wyche and LB Jorge Cordova.
Analysis: Keep these players reserved for Fantasy purposes in Week 11.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich will have surgery Tuesday on his injured left ankle, possibly ending his season. Leftwich missed three games before visiting renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham, Ala., this week. He was told to rest the ankle, then return for a re-evaluation. The Jaguars released a statement Saturday that said Leftwich has opted for surgery. But the team also said he still might return this season. "We look forward to getting Byron back on the field, and this is the first step in that process," coach Jack Del Rio said. "We will have a better idea of the length of his recovery time after the surgery. I know that Byron will work diligently to get back and rejoin his teammates as soon as possible."
Analysis: The Jags, who host the New York Giants on Monday night, said Leftwich's status will be updated following surgery. He was ruled out against the Giants. Keep Leftwich reserved in all Fantasy leagues. It appears likely he might be out for the rest of the season, but continue to monitor the situation.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich will miss his fourth consecutive game after the Jaguars downgraded his status to out on Saturday's injury report. Jacksonville hosts the New York Giants on Monday night. Leftwich did not practice this week after returning Monday from Birmingham, Ala., where traveled to get a second opinion on his injured left ankle. The quarterback said he would discuss the injury next week after a follow-up visit.
Analysis: Keep Leftwich reserved in all Fantasy leagues. It appears likely he might be out for the rest of the season, but continue to monitor the situation.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich won't practice this week, giving his injured left ankle time to rest before making a decision regarding season-ending surgery. Leftwich visited renowned orthopedist Dr. James Andrews in Alabama on Monday, but the fourth-year player refused to say what he learned from the trip. "It's pretty much the same," Leftwich said Thursday. "I haven't done anything to test it to really tell you how it feels. It feels the same as I was last week." Coach Jack Del Rio said Andrews advised Leftwich to rest his ankle "another week or two and to re-evaluate at that point." Leftwich declined to discuss the injury in detail, but said he will address it next week, presumably after another visit to Andrews. Leftwich has missed the last three games, and Del Rio said he likely will be ruled out for Monday night's game against the Giants.
Analysis: Keep Leftwich reserved in all Fantasy leagues. It appears likely he will be out for the rest of the season, but continue to monitor the situation.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 11 vs. N.Y. Giants.
Analysis: Leftwich's Fantasy owners should keep him benched so long as he's not in Jacksonville's active lineup. He could be back sooner than later if his ankle is deemed healthy as David Garrard did not have a good week vs. Houston in Week 10. The Jags host the Giants in Week 11.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was in Birmingham, Ala., on Monday to get a second opinion on his injured left ankle. Leftwich said last week he didn't believe he would need surgery, but he traveled to see renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. Coach Jack Del Rio indicated he might not be involved in Leftwich's decision. "Do you think that as a coach that I determine what a guy does?" Del Rio said Monday. "We'll go through the process, but I'm not sure how to answer the question." Leftwich said he initially hurt his left ankle Oct. 1 at Washington. The injury flared up nearly two weeks later, but Leftwich convinced coaches he was OK to play two days later at Houston. Leftwich then played poorly in a 27-7 loss, and Del Rio benched him the last three games in favor of backup David Garrard. Leftwich was then reportedly told his ankle wasn't healthy enough for him to play again in 2006.
Analysis: Leftwich's Fantasy owners should keep him benched so long as he's not in Jacksonville's active lineup. He could be back sooner than later if his ankle is deemed healthy as David Garrard did not have a good week vs. Houston in Week 10. The Jags host the Giants in Week 11.
News: The Jaguars listed FB Derrick Wimbush, CB Terry Cousin, RB LaBrandon Toefield, LB Jorge Cordova, DT Marcus Stroud and QB Byron Leftwich as inactive for Week 10 vs. Houston.
Analysis: None of these players should be in your active Fantasy lineup until further notice.
News: Quarterback Byron Leftwich (ankle) and fullback Derrick Wimbush (ankle) missed the final practice on Friday. Leftwich was downgraded to questionable; Wimbush remained doubtful.
Analysis: Leftwich's status as the quarterback in Jacksonville is sketchy at best. It appears that coach Jack Del Rio likes David Garrard more than Leftwich for the time being, so expect to see Leftwich on the waiver wire in Fantasy leagues more and more as each week passes. Leftwich is not a recommended Fantasy play in Week 10.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 10 vs. Houston.
Analysis: Leftwich will not be starting on Sunday against the Texans, so continue to keep him reserved until it appears he is ready to return to action.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich, obviously unhappy with his status as a backup quarterback, contradicted what coach Jack Del Rio said and claimed to be healthy enough to play. "Everybody keeps talking about ankle surgery and this and that. To me, it's irrelevant at this point. I'm feeling good right now. I'm feeling healthy. I want to go out on it and continuously do back-to-back-to-back-to-back days to see how it feels."
Analysis: Del Rio blamed Jacksonville's poor performance against the Texans in Week 7 squarely on Leftwich's ankle and subsequently kept him off the field while his ankle heals, but apparently there is more to it than that. For Fantasy purposes, Leftwich should remain benched in deeper leagues and cut in leagues with limited roster space. David Garrard is the man now in Jacksonville at QB.
News: David Garrard is likely to be the Jaguars' starting QB on Sunday against the Houston Texans. Coach Jack Del Rio acknowledged that likelihood at his Monday press conference. “Byron (Leftwich) is about 85-90 percent and is probably not going to get better than that until he has a long time off. In my opinion, he's about as good as he's going to get,” said Del Rio, who talked about the probable need for offseason clean-up surgery on Leftwich's left ankle. Garrard has been the Jaguars' starting quarterback in the last two games, each of them having resulted in victory. He led a 37-7 dismantling of the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, as Garrard threw for three touchdowns and a 120.6 passer rating.
Analysis: Garrard proved he can be a serviceable backup Fantasy QB with three touchdowns in Week 9 against Tennessee. Consider him a good sleeper for Week 10 against Houston. As for Leftwich, keep him reserved in all leagues.
News: Notable inactives for Week 9's TEN-JAC game include Titans RB Chris Brown, CB Pacman Jones, TE Ben Hartsock, LB Rob Reynolds, WR Jonathan Orr, WR David Givens and DE Antwan Odom. WR Brandon Jones will start for Givens. For Jacksonville, QB Byron Leftwich (No. 3 QB), CB Terry Cousin, RB LaBrandon Toefield, CB Ahmad Carroll, RB Derrick Wimbush, DE Brent Hawkins and DT Marcus Stroud are inactive. David Garrard will start at QB.
Analysis: Armed with this information, keep all inactive players off Fantasy rosters.
News: According to the Jacksonville Times-Union, Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio reiterated on Friday that Byron Leftwich is the starter at quarterback when healthy. Backup David Garrard, for the second consecutive week, will start Sunday when the Jaguars host the Tennessee Titans at Alltel Stadium. But that doesn't mean Leftwich has lost his starting job for the season, Del Rio said. "Byron [Leftwich] continues to be our quarterback," Del Rio said. "I've said that for four years. If there's a change, I'll let everyone know. I've got my starting quarterback that's being told to heal."
Analysis: Initially listed as probable on Wednesday, Leftwich was downgraded to questionable on Thursday's injury report. He remained questionable on Friday's list. Leftwich was informed by Del Rio on Thursday that he wouldn't start. He admitted on Thursday that his ankle isn't 100 percent, but also said that he's healthy enough to play against the Titans. Leftwich should be back at the helm for Week 10 vs. Houston. Stay tuned.
News: Jaguars QB David Garrard will make his second consecutive start in place of Byron Leftwich on Sunday when the Jacksonville Jaguars host Tennessee. Leftwich said Thursday that coach Jack Del Rio told him before practice he was sticking with Garrard, who led the Jaguars to a 13-6 victory at Philadelphia last week and improved to 5-1 as a starter the past two seasons. Del Rio has repeatedly said that Leftwich, if healthy, would be the starter. Leftwich declared himself healthy enough to play earlier this week and said he practiced without pain Wednesday and Thursday. But Del Rio seemingly didn't agree, a move that could create a full-fledged quarterback controversy in Jacksonville and possibly sour the relationship between Del Rio and Leftwich. The coach downgraded Leftwich to questionable and was unavailable for comment Thursday. Leftwich initially hurt his left ankle Oct. 1 at Washington. The injury flared up nearly two weeks later, but Leftwich convinced coaches he was OK to play two days later at Houston. Leftwich then played poorly in a 27-7 loss, and Del Rio considered benching his starter. Leftwich missed two practices last week and threw his shoulder pads to the ground when he learned Del Rio wanted Garrard to take all the practice repetitions. Garrard completed 10 of 17 passes for 87 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions in his first start, which was in a strong wind. He was sacked once, but ran eight times for 36 yards and had a key 13-yard scramble on fourth down that set up the only touchdown of the game.
Analysis: Bench Leftwich immediately in all leagues this week. And start Garrard only if necessary against the Titans. Look for the Jaguars to run the ball and not throw the ball too much.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 9 vs. Tennessee. Leftwich returned to practice Wednesday, took the first snap with the offense and declared himself healthy enough to play. But will he start Sunday against Tennessee? Coach Jack Del Rio sidestepped the quarterback situation, fueling speculation he may stick with mobile backup David Garrard even if Leftwich is ready after missing last week's victory at Philadelphia with a sore left ankle.
Analysis: Leftwich, who missed two practices last week, said he had no reason to believe he had lost the starting job to Garrard, and added that his relationship with Del Rio had not soured even though the coach blamed Leftwich for convincing the staff he was healthy enough to play at Houston two weeks ago. Leftwich then played poorly in a 27-7 loss. Check back with us later in the week for further updates on the QB carousel in Jacksonville.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio insisted on not naming a starting quarterback Monday to keep the Titans guessing. "I'd just as soon hold that competitive advantage and not give it to them," Del Rio said. David Garrard started and led Jacksonville to a win at Philadelphia in place of Byron Leftwich, who is nursing an ankle injury. Del Rio also added that he would start Leftwich if he knew he was healthy. Leftwich told the paper he expected to be "full go" for practice this week.
Analysis: Monitor this situation as whomever starts for Jacksonville in Week 9 will be a solid bye-week replacement QB as they host the defensively weak Titans.
News: The Jaguars will start David Garrard, not Byron Leftwich (ankle) in Week 8 vs. Philadelphia. Leftwich was listed as the emergency No. 3 QB.
Analysis: Reserve Leftwich in all Fantasy leagues. Garrard should only be considered a last-ditch Fantasy starter for Week 8 because he'll face a defense that gives up a ton of passing yards.
News: According to ESPN.com, Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio has named David Garrard as the team's starting quarterback for Sunday's game against the Eagles replacing the injured Byron Leftwich, who remains questionable on the injury report. Leftwich is dealing with a sprained left ankle that flared up prior to Week 7's game against the Texans. Del Rio indicated after last week's loss at Houston that he did not feel the ankle was a factor in Leftwich's performance. He then later changed his mind after reviewing tape of the game.
Analysis: Leftwich's performance against the Texans was not pretty. He completed 14-of-28 passes for 125 yards and no touchdowns. He looked out of rhythm all day and it must not have settled well with Del Rio as the week progressed. For now, keep Leftwich on your bench because there has not been definitive word this is a long-term change. Garrard is not a strong Fantasy option for Week 8 going up against the Eagles defense. They have had their struggles as of late, but still lead the league in sacks, and will more than likely bring the pressure on Sunday with Garrard making his first start of the season.
News: Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich missed practice Thursday because of his sore left ankle, increasing the chances that backup David Garrard will start at Philadelphia. Leftwich also sat out practice last Friday because of the injury, but convinced coaches he was OK to play at Houston. Leftwich then missed several open receivers and failed to rally the Jaguars from a 10-point deficit. He remained questionable on the injury report, but Garrard took most of the snaps a day after coach Jack Del Rio had the quarterbacks split repetitions. Leftwich said Thursday he could still play against the Eagles without practicing - he's done it before - but Del Rio was so upset over the situation last week that Leftwich has little chance of talking his way into the starting lineup again.
Analysis: Neither QB is worth going with at Philadelphia. Monitor this situation if you own Leftwich and were considering him. We should know more by Friday, but be sure to double-check Leftwich's status for up an hour before the game on Sunday.
News: Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio has changed his stance again, saying quarterback Byron Leftwich's sore left ankle was indeed a problem in last week's loss to Houston. He even decided to have Leftwich and backup David Garrard split repetitions in practice Wednesday. "There was no question based on what I saw that there was a problem," Del Rio said Wednesday, reversing his opinion from two days earlier. "He's a proud guy, he's a tough guy, but we've got to find a way to communicate so I can do the right thing for our football team. Basically, it was a situation where he really tried to go and wanted to go and I believe for the right reasons. But it didn't go well." Leftwich is listed as questionable for Week 8 at Philadelphia.
Analysis: David Garrard would start in his place; neither QB is worth going with at Philadelphia. Monitor this situation if you own Leftwich and were considering him. We should know more by Friday, but be sure to double-check Leftwich's status for up an hour before the game on Sunday.
News: Byron Leftwich's sore left ankle had nothing to do with his poor performance at Houston. His right arm may have been to blame. Coach Jack Del Rio said Monday that Leftwich "just didn't play well" in a 27-7 loss to the Texans. Del Rio added that Leftwich's ankle injury, which caused him to miss a day of practice last week, wasn't the reason. "He had some misfires, more than normal," Del Rio said.
Analysis: Leftwich did not look in rhythm at all during the game. On the first drive of the game he tripped over his center's foot and went down awkwardly. He basically did a split and got his left leg caught under his body. He did not miss any game time, but it looked as though it affected his play. The Jaguars play the Eagles in Week 8. Look to Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich started in Week 7 against the Texans after much speculation that he might miss the game with an ankle injury. Whatever the reasons, Leftwich struggled against the Texans in a 27-7 loss. He completed 14-of-28 passes for 125 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: Leftwich did not look in rhythm at all during the game. On the first drive of the game he tripped over his center's foot and went down awkwardly. He basically did a split and got his left leg caught under his body. He did not miss any game time, but it looked as though it affected his play. The Jaguars play the Eagles in Week 8. Look to Leftwich as a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: QB Byron Leftwich got the start for the Jaguars against the Texans Sunday despite a sore left ankle, but he has not played well through one half. He has completed 5-of-11 passes for 53 yards.
Analysis: Leftwich has not looked in rhythm at all. On the first drive of the game he tripped over his center's foot and went down awkwardly. He basically did a split and got his left leg caught under his body. He did not miss any game time, but has not looked good against a poor Texans defense.
News: According to CBS, Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich will start today's game against Houston. Leftwich has an injured left ankle, but he is on the field and will be under center when the game begins.
Analysis: Leftwich has a great matchup against the Texans, who have one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Consider him a good start this week despite the injury.
News: According to sources close to CBS SportsLine.com, Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich is dressed for Sunday's game against the Texans and there is a "95 percent" chance he will start. The media was told at a PR meeting that as of now Leftwich is starting and he is currently on the field warming up.
Analysis: With Leftwich's status up in the air, and not knowing if he will be able to play a whole game, you will be taking a huge risk if you play Leftwich for Fantasy purposes in Week 7.
News: Byron Leftwich's sore left ankle felt better Saturday, but the quarterback remained questionable for the Jacksonville Jaguars' game at Houston. The fourth-year starter was scheduled to fly with the team to Houston later in the day. Whether he plays against the Texans on Sunday will be a game-time decision. Backup David Garrard, who went 4-1 last season in place of Leftwich, will start if Leftwich is unable to play.
Analysis: Leftwich missed practice Friday, wore a protective boot and then had an MRI. Results showed "nothing serious," team spokesman Dan Edwards said Saturday. Edwards said Leftwich was "feeling a little bit better." Leftwich missed practice Friday, wore a protective boot and then had an MRI. Results showed "nothing serious," team spokesman Dan Edwards said Saturday. Edwards said Leftwich was "feeling a little bit better." Look for healthier alternatives if at all possible. You'll have to monitor this situation up until inactives are announced about an hour prior to kickoff.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich missed practice Friday and was scheduled to have tests on his sore left ankle, the same one that caused him to miss five games last season. Leftwich was added to the team's injury report and listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Houston. He took his normal practice repetitions Wednesday and Thursday, but coach Jack Del Rio said he experienced soreness in his ankle Friday morning. Leftwich did not attend the workout and was not available for comment. Del Rio said Leftwich would have an MRI later on Friday. "Any time your starting quarterback misses time, there's a concern," Del Rio said, adding that he will try to get backups David Garrard and Quinn Gray ready if needed. Leftwich fractured a bone in his left ankle last season and missed the final five games. He returned for Jacksonville's first-round playoff game at New England, but was clearly rusty. Team officials were unsure whether Leftwich's soreness was related to last year's injury.
Analysis: Leftwich has a perfect matchup Sunday playing against the Texans, but now it seems his status is in jeporady. We will probably know a lot more once the results from the MRI come back, until then, just sit tight and try to relax. There is no need to rush out and pick up Garrard just yet.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was 9-of-20 passing for 140 yards and two touchdowns against the Jets.
Analysis: Leftwich didn't have to do much in this 41-0 blowout victory. The Jaguars have a bye in Week 6 and then a favorable matchup against Houston in Week 7.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 21-of-35 for 289 yards, three touchdowns and one interception in Week 4 at Washington.
Analysis: Leftwich has a decent matchup against the Jets in Week 5. Despite the big week, consider using him as a bye-week replacement only for that game.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was 16-of-28 passing for 107 yards with a pass TD, two interceptions, and 14 rushing yards with a rush TD at Indianapolis in Week 3. He completed passes to seven different receivers.
Analysis: Leftwich has a decent matchup at Washington in Week 4, so consider using him as a bye-week replacement only in the game.
News: According to IndianapolisColts.com, head coach Tony Dungy said the Colts will be without the services of many key players Sunday vs. Jacksonville including WR Brandon Stokley and DB Bob Sanders. Tight end Ben Hartsock, defensive tackle Corey Simon and defensive end Josh Thomas were also downgraded from questionable to out for Week 3.
Analysis: Now that it is official, make sure to remove these players from your active lineup for Week 3. Stokley and Sanders are key losses. Colts QB Peyton Manning will now probably need to rely more on Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne to help move the offense. Also, TE Dallas Clark and WR Aaron Moorehead could get more involved in the offense. On the defensive side of the ball, Sanders was a key player in the secondary and Jags QB Byron Leftwich now might have an easier time attacking the Colts pass defense. Use caution with playing the Colts DST on Sunday.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 26-of-39 passes for 260 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Week 2 against the Steelers.
Analysis: Leftwich remains an average Fantasy quarterback worth using only when your primary option has a difficult matchup or a bye week. The Jaguars travel to Indianapolis in Week 3, so he is not worth using in most leagues for this unfavorable game.
News: Jags QB Byron Leftwich, starting his first Monday night game, has a TD pass in 33 of 41 career games. The Jaguars will take on the Steelers in Week 2.
Analysis: The oft-injured Leftwich will get his first tatse of the Monday Night limelight in Week 2 and it will be a true test for the young quarterback. Leftwich remains an average Fantasy quarterback worth using only when your primary option has a difficult matchup or a bye week. The Jaguars host the Steelers in Week 2, so he is not worth using in most leagues for this unfavorable game. However, do keep a close eye on Leftwich. If he plays well against the Steelers, it could be a sign of good things to come.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 23-of-34 passes for 237 yards, a touchdown and an interception in Week 1 against the Cowboys. He also ran five times for seven yards including a three-yard fourth quarter touchdown plunge.
Analysis: Leftwich remains an average Fantasy quarterback worth using only when your primary option has a difficult matchup or a bye week. The Jaguars host the Steelers in Week 2, so he is not worth using in most leagues for this unfavorable game.
News: The Jaguars believe the key to their season is keeping quarterback Byron Leftwich healthy -- something they haven't done in two years. Leftwich missed seven of the last 25 games because of injuries and was knocked out of two more. Now, he is trying to do his part to prevent it from becoming a trend. He's making quicker reads, speeding up his delivery and vowing to take fewer hits from defensive players. "I really do believe I have to stay healthy," Leftwich said Monday. "It's too hard in this league to win when you've got all your players. It's even harder to win when one or some of your guys are down and you don't have your full deck of cards."
Analysis: It's that exact concern that has kept Fantasy owners away from taking Leftwich as a solid No. 2 QB. He's got a great, strong arm, but his injury-riddled past is a huge issue. That, and there's no proven, clear-cut threat at receiver in Jacksonville. Facing a Dallas defense that looked very strong this preseason, Leftwich should not start as a No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 1.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 13 of 20 passes for 167 yards in Saturday's preseason game against the Buccaneers, but was sacked four times in the first half. "Everybody, don't get discouraged," Leftwich said. "We're OK and we'll be ready for the opener. There were a few bumps in the road. It was kind of a big bump there in the first half. Nothing went our way. You've got to understand that you have those type of halves in this league. We came out and began to make plays. Once you begin to make one, they begin to come in bunches and that's what happened."
Analysis: He has been sacked seven times in three preseason games, prompting questions about whether he can stay healthy -- something he hasn't done the past two seasons. He also has failed to lead the first-team offense to a touchdown against an opponent's starting defense. Leftwich has the arm and field vision to be a supreme NFL quarterback, but he's injury prone and, at least going into this season, isn't playing with any reliable receivers. It's pushed Leftwich to the back of the No. 2 Fantasy QB pack, making him a late-round pick in seasonal Fantasy leagues.
News: Starter Byron Leftwich has completed 10 of 16 passes for 152 yards and a touchdown, but also thrown an interception and been sacked three times this preseason. Backup David Garrard worked primarily with the starters last week against Carolina, but fumbled three times, threw two interceptions and was sacked once. Jack Del Rio wants to get third-string quarterback Quinn Gray some repetitions with the starters against Tampa Bay (1-1). But it probably won't happen unless the offense looks sharp behind Leftwich.
Analysis: Leftwich has the arm and field vision to be a supreme NFL quarterback, but he's injury prone and, at least going into this season, isn't playing with any reliable receivers. It's pushed Leftwich to the back of the No. 2 Fantasy QB pack, making him a late-round pick in seasonal leagues. Naturally, if his receivers step up and he doesn't get hurt, he could be a starter, so there's a lot of reward and very little risk in picking Leftwich in 2006.
News: Byron Leftwich played most of the first half in Saturday's preseason game at Miami and finished 6-for-12 for 100 yards. He connected on a long pass to WR Matt Jones, who beat Dolphins newcomer S Will Allen for a score in the second quarter. "We have a lot of work to do on offense, but it was great to get that much work," Leftwich said.
Analysis: Leftwich has the arm and field vision to be a supreme NFL quarterback, but he's injury prone and, at least for this season, isn't playing with any reliable receivers. It's pushed Leftwich to the back of the No. 2 Fantasy QB pack, making him a late-round pick in seasonal leagues. Naturally, if his receivers step up and he doesn't get hurt, he could be a starter, so there's a lot of reward and very little risk in picking Leftwich in 2006.
News: Jaguars.com reports that QB Byron Leftwich looks slimmer than ever as he returns to his post as the team's signal caller. "Let's just say I'm in almost close to perfect shape," Leftwich said. "It's the best shape I've ever been in, by far. It's the best I've ever felt since I played football. I'm ready to roll."
Analysis: Leftwich has the arm and field vision to be a supreme NFL quarterback, but he's injury prone and, at least for this season, isn't playing with any reliable receivers. It's pushed Leftwich to the back of the No. 2 Fantasy QB pack, making him a late-round pick in seasonal leagues. Naturally, if his receivers step up and he doesn't get hurt, he could be a starter, so there's a lot of reward and very little risk in picking Leftwich in 2006.
News: Jimmy Smith, a five-time Pro Bowl selection who overcame several health problems during his 12 seasons, scheduled a news conference Thursday with the Jacksonville Jaguars to announce his decision to retire. Smith contemplated retirement during the offseason, but Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio asked him to take his time and be sure he was making the right choice. His announcement came a day before the team opened a three-day minicamp.
Analysis: Smith was to Byron Leftwich what Hines Ward is to Ben Roethlisberger and Steve Smith is to Jake Delhomme. Without him, Leftwich must now establish another receiver as Jacksonville's reliable target. Ernest Wilford, Matt Jones and Reggie Williams are all interesting options in Jacksonville's offense, and one of them will have to step up this summer. As a result of this, though, Leftwich has to be considered a middle-of-the-road No. 2 Fantasy quarterback since he's losing a guaranteed 70-catch, 1,000-yard receiver.
News: Jags QB Byron Leftwich threw for 2,123 yards on 175-of-302 passing with 15 TDs and five interceptions. He added 67 rush yards, averaging 2.2 yards per rush, the worst average of his career. He did run in two scores, though. His regular season was cut short by a broken ankle in Week 11, but he returned to play in the first round of the playoffs.
Analysis: Leftwich should have put up better numbers considering Jacksonville's offense. The lack of interceptions is encouraging, but he still ranks as a No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into the offseason.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) is expected to start at New England for their wild-card game. Leftwich missed the final five weeks of the season with a broken ankle. "I'll be ready to play," Leftwich said. "Heck, I was ready to play (against the Titans)."
Analysis: Leftwich's arm has had plenty of rest and should be ready to throw against New England, who will test his mobility. With the Pats ranking 31st against the pass, expect Leftwich to throw a lot in the game.
News: Byron Leftwich (ankle) was inactive for Week 17 against the Titans.
Analysis: Leftwich might be able to return for the first round of the playoffs and should be fine entering the 2006 season.
News: Byron Leftwich (ankle) will be a gametime decision for the regular-season finale. "I'm not going to declare whether he'll play until I have to," head coach Jack Del Rio said.
Analysis: There's a chance that Leftwich, not David Garrard, will start against Tennessee. However, there's also a chance that both will see time under center. Be sure to monitor this situation over the weekend.
News: According to reports, Byron Leftwich (ankle) completed a second straight practice Thursday. "I was a little rusty on Wednesday, but came back strong today," he said. "My timing and accuracy is headed in the right direction."
Analysis: David Garrard is still expected to start in Week 17, but Leftwich could also see some time under center against Tennessee.
News: Jags QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) will be back at practice this week and could play vs. Tennessee in Week 17.
Analysis: Leftwich and Garrard could end up splitting reps, making both unusable in Fantasy leagues this week.
News: Byron Leftwich (ankle) was on the inactive list for Week 16.
Analysis: It looks like Leftwich won't make it back to play anytime during the regular season, especially with the Jaguars all but owning the No. 5 AFC playoff spot. Fantasy owners should free up a roster spot and lose Leftwich from the team.
News: QB Byron Leftwich is off his crutches and the Jaguars may try to play him in the season finale against Tennessee depending on the condition of the cracked bone in his ankle.
Analysis: Leftwich would be a great start for those owners still playing in Week 17. Monitor this situation, and add him to your roster if he is available and you'll be playing in the final week of the season.
News: Byron Leftwich (ankle) was on the inactive list for Week 15.
Analysis: It looks like Leftwich won't make it back to play anytime during the regular season, especially with the Jaguars all but owning the No. 5 AFC playoff spot. Fantasy owners should free up a roster spot and lose Leftwich from the team.
News: According to reports, Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich won't face any setbacks, but the team hasn't issued a return date for the veteran. Leftwich broke his right ankle at Arizona in Week 12 and is hoping to come back in time for the playoffs.
Analysis: It looks like Leftwich won't make it back to play anytime during the regular season, especially with the Jaguars all but owning the No. 5 AFC playoff spot. Fantasy owners should free up a roster spot and lose Leftwich from the team.
News: QB Byron Leftwich is still on crutches after missing two games with a cracked bone in his ankle. Head coach Jack Del Rio said X-rays will be taken this week to determine if Leftwich can get off the crutches. There's no timetable for the quarterback's return, and he might miss the rest of the season.
Analysis: It looks like Leftwich won't make it back to play anytime during the regular season, especially with the Jaguars all but owning the No. 5 AFC playoff spot. Fantasy owners should free up a roster spot and lose Leftwich from the team.
News: Byron Leftwich was inactive for Week 14 vs. Indianapolis.
Analysis: He might be back in time for the NFL playoffs. David Garrard starts in his stead.
News: The Jaguars have Byron Leftwich listed as out on the Week 14 injury report. He still can't put weight on the broken bone in his ankle, and he'll watch the game Sunday from the sideline on crutches after watching the game in Cleveland on TV.
Analysis: Leftwich will not suit up vs. Indianapolis. He might be back in time for the NFL playoffs. David Garrard starts in his stead.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich (ankle) was inactive at Cleveland in Week 13. He did not travel with the team to the game.
Analysis: Leftwich is still expected to miss at least three more weeks before returning, making him nearly useless in Fantasy leagues. Still, owners can hold out hope and wait for him to make a possible return in time for Week 16 or 17.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich said Wednesday that doctors have told him to drink milk to put calcium in his body and help the broken bone in his ankle heal. "I'm eating a lot of more cereal [with milk]," he said. "It's hard for me to drink it [milk] straight up. I'm eating a lot more Cheerios, Fruit Loops, Frosted Flakes, stuff like that."
Analysis: Leftwich chose to not have surgery in hopes that he could return this season, but it is unlikely that he will be back in time to help any Fantasy owners this season. He is only worth reserving in keeper leagues.
News: Byron Leftwich won't have surgery to repair his broken left ankle and will not be placed on injured reserve. He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks but might be able to return in Week 17. Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio said a month "is the most conservative outlook that I can give. It could be more, I doubt it could be less."
Analysis: Leftwich should be released in most seasonal leagues. David Garrard will take over under center and is a nice option off the waiver wire.
News: Byron Leftwich left Sunday's game at Arizona due to a badly sprained ankle in the first quarter. After the game, coach Jack Del Rio said the best-case scenario would be Leftwich missing four weeks with the worst-case scenario having him miss the remainder of the season.
Analysis: With Leftwich on the sidelines, David Garrard is a solid pickup in all larger Fantasy leagues for Week 13 at Cleveland.
News: Byron Leftwich threw for 258 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's 31-28 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Analysis: Leftwich will remain a nice option for Week 12 on the road against the Arizona Cardinals.
News: Byron Leftwich was 16 for 30 for 211 yards. He also threw a 32-yard touchdown to Matt Jones in the Jaguars' 30-3 rout of Baltimore.
Analysis: Leftwich will look to continue his solid play in Week 11 when the Jaguars play the Titans. He is a solid start in any Fantasy format.
News: Byron Leftwich threw for 218 yards and scored two touchdowns (1 pass, 1 rush) in Sunday's 21-14 win over the Houston Texans.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent starter in leagues with 12-plus teams for Week 10 against the Baltimore Ravens.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 18 of 31 passes along with two touchdowns and an interception at St. Louis Sunday.
Analysis: The Jaguars host Houston in Week 9. Leftwich is a better Fantasy backup than he is a starter. Last year, at home against Houston, Leftwich completed only six of 14 passes for 35 yards. Don't expect a game that horrible, but don't look at the Texans as an easy matchup for Byron.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was 19 of 35 for 177 yards with a touchdown pass and an interception at Pittsburgh in Week 6.
Analysis: Leftwich has not met expectations this year. The Jaguars are on bye in Week 7, but Leftwich could have a good outing at St. Louis in Week 8.
News: Byron Leftwich completed just 10 passes in Sunday night's win over the Bengals, but two of those went for touchdowns. He finished the evening 10-of-24 for 161 yards and two scoring strikes.
Analysis: Leftwich is a nice No. 2 Fantasy option at this point. The Jags are in Pittsburgh in Week 6, not a favorable matchup for him.
News: Byron Leftwich threw for 240 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 20-7 loss to the Denver Broncos.
Analysis: Leftwich has a difficult matchup in Week 5 against Cincinnati, so start him with caution.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 16-of-23 for 177 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in Week 3 at N.Y. Jets, leading the team to a win in overtime.
Analysis: Leftwich did not show any ill effects of the groin injury suffered a week ago. He will look to carry the momentum into Week 4 when the Jaguars host the Broncos.
News: Byron Leftwich (groin) is 5-of-7 with a touchdown at halftime of Week 3 at N.Y. Jets, but he has only 38 yards.
Analysis: Leftwich has done enough to lead the Jaguars into the locker room with a three-point lead, but he has done little in terms of Fantasy. On a positive note, he does not seem to be hampered too much by his injury, as he has two carries for 12 yards.
News: The Jaguars have moved QB Byron Leftwich (groin) from questionable to probable on Week 3's injury report. He should start against the Jets.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams, barring setbacks.
News: According to reports, Jags QB Byron Leftwich (groin) practiced on Thursday in hopes of playing at the Jets in Week 3.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams, barring setbacks.
News: Byron Leftwich (groin) is listed as questionable for Week 3, but the quarterback is expected to start against the Jets.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent option in leagues with 12-plus teams, barring setbacks.
News: The Times-Union reports an MRI revealed that Byron Leftwich suffered a groin strain in Week 2.
Analysis: Leftwich should be at practice Wednesday and start in Week 3, so don't be concerned.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was 16 of 29 passing for 198 yards and 11 yards rushing. He and his receivers were shut down by the Colts secondary in Week 2. He hurt himself late and limped noticeably on the Jags' last drive. He had X-rays taken following the game, refusing to say what was hurting him. He did say his knee was not what was hurting him.
Analysis: Leftwich may fare better in Week 3 against the Jets if he is healthy enough to play.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was 17 of 31 for 252 yards with two touchdowns and nine yards rushing in Week 1 vs. Seattle.
Analysis: Leftwich could be in for a shootout with the Colts in Week 2.
News: Jaguars.com reports QB Byron Leftwich isn't worried about the impact of Tropical Storm Ophelia, which may cause some weather problems for the Jaguars' home opener against the Seahawks in Week 1. "I'm weather-proof," Leftwich said. "I can throw through anything. That's the last thing I'm worried about, the weather."
Analysis: Leftwich's stats could take a hit if the game is played in a downpour, so keep an eye on the Jacksonville sky.
News: Jags QB Byron Leftwich was 11 of 20 for 179 yards against the Falcons in preseason play. The Jaguars began playing the game calling plays out of their new offensive scheme, which will involve lots of deep routes. His biggest pass was a one-handed grab by rookie Matt Jones for 48 yards.
Analysis: Leftwich could thrive in an offense that calls for lots of deep passing. We probably won't get another good look at it until the regular season, so consider Leftwich a No. 2 Fantasy QB with potential to move up.
News: The Orlando Sentinel reports Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio is ready to use his new "attack" offense this preseason, and will debut it Aug. 25 against the Falcons.
Analysis: Leftwich is the key to the offense; if he can make it work, his stats would likely go through the roof. Be sure to see how he does in the team's final preseason games.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was an efficient 14 of 21 passing for 125 yards against the Buccaneers in Week 3 preseason action.
Analysis: Leftwich seems to be getting more comfortable in the new Jacksonville offense. He's a nice No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Despite winning 27-17 in their preseason debut, Jags QB Byron Leftwich wasn't satisfied with his play, or that of the offense. "We've got some things to work out, but for the most part, they're all correctable," Leftwich said. "It wasn't what we wanted. We didn't do great, but it wasn't all bad, either." He finished going 3 of 7 for 32 yards and was sacked four times on 11 passing plays.
Analysis: Leftwich may need better protection, but what he really deserves is more time in the preseason to work on the offense. It's a new scheme, so it will take time to jell, but when it does it could be awesome.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that new offensive coordinator Carl Smith is bringing back play-action plays to the Jags' playbook (in addition to the deep ball). "Anytime you've got Fred back there, people are going to fall for play action," Leftwich said. "You can't ignore Fred, so it has a chance to be a great weapon for us."
Analysis: The changes could help Leftwich become a stat monster. He could be worth taking as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with the potential for him to start for your team by the end of the season.
News: An Orlando Sentinel story reveals that Byron Leftwich is putting himself under a lot of pressure for the upcoming season. "My expectations for myself are higher than anything others put on me," said Leftwich. "Nobody on this team allows outsiders to put pressure on us that we don't already put on ourselves."
Analysis: Leftwich is happy with the new offense installed in Jacksonville, which should see his pass attempts go up this year. If it looks like the Jaguars will be a serious passing threat, Leftwich will merit middle-round Fantasy consideration.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Byron Leftwich is already succeeding in new offensive coordinator Carl Smith's scheme, which is partially based on the players Jacksonville already had. "Everything is going well," Leftwich said. "(The new offense) is a lot of fun. It's going to allow us to make plays, and we've got playmakers on this team."
Analysis: When the preseason starts, Leftwich will be one guy to keep an eye on. He has the cannon and receivers to put up big stats, so if it looks like the Jaguars will be a serious passing threat, Leftwich will merit middle-round Fantasy consideration.
News: The Jaguars official website reports Byron Leftwich is excited to work with new offensive coordinator Carl Smith. "I love the system, the route tree and the things we are doing. I think it's going to let us attack more," Leftwich said.
Analysis: In other news, Leftwich appears to have no lingering pain is his knee, which he injured last season. "No pain, no anything," Leftwich said.
News: Byron Leftwich (concussion) was able to play in Week 17 at Oakland.
Analysis: Leftwich completed 15-of-28 passes for 149 yards and an interception. He also carried 10 times for 41 yards.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich (concussion) is probable for Week 17 at Oakland.
Analysis: Leftwich will be fine to start in Week 17 and is a quality Fantasy starter.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was six of 14 for 35 yards with and interception in Week 16 against Houston. He was forced to leave the game in the first quarter with an apparent neck/shoulder injury but was able to return.
Analysis: Leftwich should fare much better when the Jaguars travel to Oakland in Week 17.
News: Jaguars QB Byron Leftwich was forced to leave the Week 16 game against Houston in the first quarter with an apparent neck/shoulder injury. His return to the game is questionable.
Analysis: David Garrard is in for the Jaguars at QB.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, despite having to be helped from the field in the second quarter with a bruised left wrist, Jaguars quarterback Byron Leftwich said he was fine and ready to go in Week 16.
Analysis: Doesn't even sound like Leftwich will be listed on the injury report. It is safe to keep him active for Week 16 against the Texans.
News: Byron Leftwich completed nine of his 20 pass attempts for 121 yards and two touchdowns in Week 15 at Green Bay.
Analysis: Leftwich required treatment for an injury to his left wrist, but he gutted it out in the freezing cold of Green Bay to lead his club to an important win. The weather should be more favorable in Jacksonville for Week 16 against Houston.
News: Byron Leftwich left Week 15 at Green Bay in the second quarter with a left wrist injury, but was able to return.
Analysis: On his first series back, he was sacked by DE Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and was scooped up by S Darren Sharper for a 15-yard touchdown.
News: Byron Leftwich and the Jaguars are playing in Week 15 at Green Bay where the gametime temperature is expected to be around 10 degrees, with wind chills near minus-20.
Analysis: Leftwich is not a recommended Fantasy starter for the difficult road matchup, especially considering the difficult conditions.
News: Byron Leftwich was 25-of-45 for 242 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in Week 14 against Chicago.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent option as a starting Fantasy QB. The Jaguars travel to Green Bay in Week 15.
News: Byron Leftwich connected on 16-of-27 passes for 268 yards and a touchdown in Week 13 against the Steelers, but the Jaguars came up one point shy.
Analysis: Leftwich will look to get his team back on track in Week 14 against Chicago.
News: Byron Leftwich was 19-of-34 for 235 yards passing with a touchdown in Week 12 at Minnesota.
Analysis: Now that Leftwich is back and close to 100%, he can safely be activated in all leagues. The Jaguars host the Steelers in Week 13.
News: Coach Jack Del Rio announced that Byron Leftwich (knee) will start in Week 12 at Minnesota. "He was able to work in full pads and moved around pretty well," Del Rio said. "He threw the ball accurately and made good decisions. He basically picked up where he left off a little bit, so we're glad to see that." Leftwich seemed to agree with his coach. "I wasn't perfect out there today, but I wasn't off," Leftwich said. "I actually did better than I thought I would after being out for a couple weeks."
Analysis: Leftwich has been on the sidelines since injuring his knee in Week 8 at Houston. David Garrard will go back to the No. 2 QB role. Leftwich is a solid starter in Week 12 against a weak Vikings defense.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich (knee) was confident that he would return to action in Week 12 at Minnesota. "There's nothing definite in life except death and taxes, but it's a pretty good bet I'll be back out there," Leftwich said.
Analysis: Leftwich missed his second consecutive game with a sprained knee ligament in Week 11. David Garrard started in his absence. If he plays, Leftwich is an attractive starter in Week 12.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich (knee) threw lightly on Wednesday but hasn't been cleared to return to practice. Coach Jack Del Rio said Leftwich would only play in Week 11 in an emergency. He will likely be designated the No.3 quarterback behind starter David Garrard and No. 2 Quinn Gray.
Analysis: Leftwich remains listed as doubtful for Week 11 but Garrard will obviously start against the Titans. Leftwich expects to return to action in Week 12 at Minnesota.
News: Byron Leftwich (knee) has still not been cleared to practice and remains doubtful for Week 11 against Tennessee. Leftwich is hopeful of returning under center in Week 12 at Minnesota. "We have not ruled Byron out, but I still say it's unlikely that he's going to play this weekend," coach Jack Del Rio said. "We're going to make sure that we do the wise thing there for the long term and not rush him back."
Analysis: David Garrard is a decent replacement against a nicked up Tennessee defense in Fantasy leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Byron Leftwich (knee) is trying to get clearance to play against Tennessee Sunday. "What we have to guard against is him coming back before he should come back, and that's the biggest thing we have to work with him to help him understand," said coach Jack Del Rio.
Analysis: A more likely return date for Leftwich seems to be at Minnesota on in Week 12. Expect David Garrard to get the start in Week 11.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich (knee) is making solid progress in the rehabilitation of his knee. "I'm putting in eight-to-nine hours a day of rehab, and I can definitely feel myself getting better," Leftwich said. "The trainers said I'm doing a heck of a job. I'm already doing some things they didn't expect me to be able to do until next week."
Analysis: The Jaguars don't expect Leftwich back until Week 12 at Minnesota, however the QB has said he might try to get back for Week 11 against Tennessee. He is definitely out for Week 10 against Detroit.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich (knee) will not need surgery on his left knee and likely will miss just two games. David Garrard will start for the Jaguars in Week 10 against Detroit.
Analysis: Leftwich sprained the lateral collateral ligament in his knee in the second quarter of Week 8 at Houston. Coach Jack Del Rio said Leftwich could return in time for Week 12 at Minnesota.
News: Noted sports orthopedist James Andrews examined Byron Leftwich and determined the quarterback will not need surgery after spraining the lateral collateral ligament in his left knee. It had originally been reported Leftwich would miss 4-6 weeks but now it appears he might be ready to play in Week 10 against Detroit after the Jaguars have a bye in Week 9. "We'll re-evaluate Monday and have a better sense of when Byron will be able to join us. We have not ruled out the Detroit Lions here at home," said coach Jack del Rio. "Byron is in good spirits. He said, 'Coach, give me this week, I'll be back next week. Don't worry about it."'
Analysis: Leftwich suffered the injury in Week 8 at Houston. Given his history of playing through pain it would not be surprising to see him come back in Week 10.
News: According to reports, Byron Leftwich has a torn lateral collateral ligament in his left knee and is out four to six weeks.
Analysis: David Garrard will take over as the starter in Jacksonville.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, Byron Leftwich could miss the rest of the season with an injured posterior-cruciate ligament in his left knee. He is in Birmingham, Ala., to have the leg examined by sports orthopedist James Andrews, so a report should be released soon.
Analysis: Should Leftwich be out of action for the final eight games, David Garrard will be the new starter.
News: Byron Leftwich had his worst passing day in over a month in Week 8 at Houston. The Jaguars QB was 25-of-40 for 227 yards and two interceptions.
Analysis: Disappointing day for Leftwich but you can't expect him to throw for 300 yards every game. This was the first game this season in which he didn't throw a touchdown. He is still a solid starting Fantasy QB. The Jaguars have a bye in Week 9 and host the Lions in Week 10.
News: For the fourth consecutive week, Byron Leftwich had a big passing day. He was 23 of 30 for 300 yards and two touchdowns in Week 7 against the Colts.
Analysis: Leftwich is quickly approaching the time when he should be started each and every week. The Jaguars travel to Houston in Week 8, another good matchup for the QB from Marshall.
News: Byron Leftwich (shoulder, ankle) is now probable for Week 7 against Indianapolis.
Analysis: Leftwich is a solid starting quarterback in Week 7 against a weak Colts defense.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, quarterback Byron Leftwich (shoulder, ankle) was back at practice on Thursday and expects to be ready to go in Week 7 against the Colts. He had missed practice on Wednesday. "It was boring," Leftwich said of sitting out Wednesday. "You're out there standing around and it's like nobody is your friend. Everybody is doing the stuff you want to do and you can't do it. I don't think you ever sprain an ankle and in three days be pain-free. I think I won't feel it by Sunday".
Analysis: Leftwich bruised his shoulder and sprained his ankle in Week 6 against Kansas City. He is averaging 324 passing yards over his last three games and is a solid starter in Week 7 against a weak Colts defense.
News: Byron Leftwich was able to practice on Thursday, taking a majority of the snaps. "I'm not a tough guy," Leftwich said Thursday. "I don't want to be a superhero. I just try to deal with pain the best I can and if I'm capable of helping my team, I will always do that. We'll worry about pain and whatever I did to myself after the game."
Analysis: Leftwich is a tough guy, which was displayed in college in a game against Akron when he fractured a tibia and was carried down the field by his offensive linemen. It looks almost certain he will be under center when the team takes the field for Week 7 at Indianapolis.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, coach Jack Del Rio said that he is confident quarterback Byron Leftwich (shoulder, ankle) will start against the Colts in Week 7. "We anticipate having him back this week," Del Rio said.
Analysis: Leftwich bruised his shoulder and sprained his ankle in Week 6 against Kansas City. He is averaging 324 passing yards over his last three games and is a solid starter in Week 7 against a weak Colts defense.
News: The Florida Union-Times reports that Byron Leftwich (ankle) was in a walking boot Monday, but head coach Jack Del Rio expects him to play Sunday at the Colts.
Analysis: Leftwich is averaging a touchdown and 324 yards passing over his past three games.
News: Byron Leftwich injured his ankle in Week 6 against Kansas City and according to reports was seen wearing a walking boot on the injury.
Analysis: Leftwich should be considered questionable for Week 7 at Indianapolis.
News: Byron Leftwich just missed his third straight game with 300 yards passing in Week 6 against Kansas City. He was 24-of-36 for 298 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Leftwich has really come on lately and should be owned in all leagues. He is worth starting when the defensive matchup is right. The Jaguars travel to Indianapolis in Week 7.
News: Byron Leftwich scored on a one-yard run in the first quarter of Week 6 against Kansas City.
Analysis: Leftwich has now run or thrown for a touchdown in 10 straight weeks.
News: Byron Leftwich was 36-of-54 for 357 yards, one touchdown passing and two interceptions in Week 5 at San Diego. He also ran for a score.
Analysis: Leftwich has thrown for a score in 10 straight games. He has emerged as a useful No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in larger leagues.
News: Byron Leftwich was 29-of-41 for 318 yards and a touchdown in a Week 4 loss to the Colts. He hit Jimmy Smith for the touchdown.
Analysis: It was his first 300-yard passing game of the year. Leftwich should be used as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy QB. Jacksonville faces San Diego in Week 5.
News: Byron Leftwich led the Jaguars to their third straight win in Week 3 against Tennessee. Leftwich was 14-of-20 for 124 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Leftwich seems to just do enough to win. That certainly doesn't translate to big Fantasy games and he should only be owned as a No. 2 or 3 QB at this point. The Jaguars play Indianapolis in Week 4.
News: Byron Leftwich was eight of 16 for 120 yards and a touchdown in Week 2 against Denver.
Analysis: Leftwich has yet to pass for 150 yards in a game this season. He should only be owned as a reserve. The Jacksonville Jaguars play at the Tennessee Titans in Week 3.
News: Byron Leftwich threw the game winning touchdown pass to Ernest Wilford with no time left to defeat Buffalo 13-10 in Week 1.
Analysis: Despite the win, Leftwich didn't have great stats. He was 18 of 36 for 147 yards, with a touchdown and two interceptions. He should only be used as a No. 2 QB in Fantasy leagues and is not an attractive option in Week 2 against Jacksonville.
News: Byron Leftwich is listed as probable for Week 1 at Buffalo due to a bruised thumb.
Analysis: Leftwich has been able to practice and will play through the injury. Only consider reserving him if you have a better alternative with a more favorable matchup.
News: Byron Leftwich completed just 4-of-11 passes for 55 yards and an interception in Friday's game against Tampa Bay. He rushed once for 13 yards as well.
Analysis: Leftwich will be the team's starting QB this year. He should be targeted in the middle to late rounds and could emerge into a reliable No. 1 Fantasy QB as the season progresses.
News: According to the Jaguars official website, Byron Leftwich expects a great year for his team in 2004. "Everybody's talking about the Super Bowl and that's our number one goal, but I've seen a team win the Super Bowl without going to the playoffs," Leftwich said. "We do know the Super Bowl is here in Jacksonville. We do have that in our mind, but there are other things in our mind, too."
Analysis: Leftwich has good sleeper potential and is worth a middle-round selection on Draft Day.
News: According to the Florida Times-Union, Byron Leftwich hurt his right hand during 11-on-11 drills this past weekend. Leftwich underwent X-rays, which showed only a hyperextension of two fingers.
Analysis: Coach Jack Del Rio said he didn't think it was anything major and believes that Leftwich will be fine.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 21-of-40 passes for 288 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Week 15 at New England.
Analysis: Leftwich is a decent Fantasy quarterback when the matchup is favorable such as Week 16 against New Orleans and Week 17 at Atlanta.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 20-of-34 passes for 224 yards and two scores in 17-10 Week 13 win against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Leftwich and the young Jaguars appear to have a bright future. He will be a hot commodity on Draft Day 2004 in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Jack Del Rio has changed his mind and Byron Leftwich will now start in the Week 13 game against Tampa Bay, according to the Florida Times-Union. "I looked at the [Jets] tape, and the more I studied it and talked with the coordinators, staff, his position coach and Byron himself, there are a lot of things he is doing well. Many of the areas where he broke down early in the season, he has made strides and made improvements." Del Rio said on his radio show on Tuesday.
Analysis: Leftwich should not be used in yearly Fantasy leagues, even if he continues to maintain his grip on the starting job.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that the Jaguars are considering replacing rookie Byron Leftwich with David Garrard for Sunday's against Tampa Bay. "To be honest with you, I am giving some thought to David Garrard," said head coach Jack Del Rio.
Analysis: Leftwich is not a recommended starter in any leagues right now. Keep him reserved in keeper leagues since he still has a bright future ahead of him.
News: Byron Leftwich may be benched in favor of backup David Garrard for this Sunday's game against Tampa Bay, Jack Del Rio said Monday.
Analysis: Del Rio indicated he will make his decision later this week, but also conceded that Mark Brunell, the starter at the beginning of the season, isn't an option right now. Consider releasing Leftwich from your roster in yearly leagues if you still have him.
News: Jack Del Rio told the Florida Times-Union he will not take Byron Leftwich out of the starting lineup. "I haven't given any thought to making a switch," Del Rio said. "I think he has continued to make improvement. He's doing things better after having the experience, and it's my belief that he can do things well enough right now for us to win."
Analysis: Leftwich has 17 total turnovers in seven starts, and should not be used in yearly Fantasy leagues.
News: Byron Leftwich threw for 151 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions in Week 11.
Analysis: Leftwich is too inconsistent to start on most Fantasy teams.
News: Byron Leftwich posted 179 passing yards with two touchdowns (1 pass, 1 rush) in Sunday's win over Indianapolis.
Analysis: Leftwich is not a recommended Fantasy starter in Week 11 at Tennessee.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports Byron Leftwich worked on his fumbling problem Wednesday by having defenders repeatedly slap the ball away from him. Leftwich has lost six fumbles this year.
Analysis: Leftwich should only be used as an emergency option in yearly Fantasy leagues.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Byron Leftwich will start again on Sunday against Indianapolis despite a bad outing in Week 9 at Baltimore.
Analysis: Leftwich faces another good defense and does not warrant starting in most leagues.
News: Byron Leftwich threw for 208 yards with one touchdown and one interception in Week 9.
Analysis: Leftwich is a risky starting option in Week 10 against Indianapolis.
News: Leftwich had a tough game in Week 8, throwing one touchdown and three interceptions before being relieved by David Garrard.
Analysis: Leftwich isn't reliable enough to be a weekly Fantasy starter.
News: Byron Leftwich should be a major part of the Jaguars' gameplan in their Week 8 contest against Tennessee. The Titans' secondary ranks just 31st overall, and has allowed 300-plus passing yards in its past two games.
Analysis: Consider using Leftwich in larger leagues, or as a second quarterback in leagues that require two starters.
News: Byron Leftwich threw three interceptions in Week 6. He also compiled 256 passing yards and one rushing touchdown in a loss to Miami.
Analysis: Jacksonville has a bye in Week 7.
News: Byron Leftwich will remain Jacksonville's starting QB, even when Mark Brunell is fully healthy. The Florida Times-Union reports Jack Del Rio informed Mark Brunell of his decision earlier this week.
Analysis: Leftwich performed well in Week 5, but his inexperience makes him a risky starting option on a regular basis.
News: Byron Leftwich started in place of Mark Brunell (elbow). He completed 19-of-28 passes for 336 yards and two touchdowns in Week 5 against San Diego, to pick up his first career win.
Analysis: Leftwich might find the going tough against the above-average Miami defense in Week 6. It is unlikely he will lose the starting job unless he suffers an injury.
News: Jack Del Rio confirmed Thursday that Byron Leftwich will start Week 5 against San Diego in place of Mark Brunell (elbow).
Analysis: Leftwich is worth adding in larger leagues for a favorable matchup against the winless Chargers.
News: Byron Leftwich will start Sunday against San Diego, leaving a healthy Mark Brunell on the bench. For the second straight day, Leftwich took the majority of the snaps with the first team during Thursday's practice, while Brunell took none. Jack Del Rio made the announcement shortly after practice.
Analysis: While Leftwich faces a weak San Diego defense, his inexperience still makes him a risky Fantasy starter.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports that Byron Leftwich could be named the starter Wednesday by Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio. Mark Brunell (elbow) was supposed to return as the starter this week.
Analysis: Leftwich is not a recommended Fantasy starter, but should be reserved in most leagues.
News: Byron Leftwich threw one TD pass and was intercepted three times in his first NFL start.
Analysis: Leftwich threw many of his passes too high or simply off the mark, and it's clear he needs a lot of work before he becomes a quality Fantasy player.
News: Byron Leftwich will likely start at Houston Sunday in place of Mark Brunell (elbow). Brunell was downgraded to doubtful Friday and has not practiced all week.
Analysis: Leftwich should not be considered a Fantasy starter yet, but he is worth picking up as a reserve.
News: According to SportsLine.com's Pete Prisco, Byron Leftwich will start at QB for Jacksonville in Week 4.
Analysis: Leftwich should not be used as a Fantasy starter yet, but is worth picking up as a reserve.
News: Mark Brunell (elbow) is listed as questionable for Week 4. Byron Leftwich might make his first pro start at Hosuton.
Analysis: Leftwich should only be considered as a Fantasy backup because of his inexperience.
News: Byron Leftwich went 4-of-5 with a touchdown in Week 3. He replaced Mark Brunell late in Sunday's loss to Indianapolis.
Analysis: Don't be surprised if Leftwich emerges past Brunell as Jacksonville's starter in the coming weeks.
News: The Florida Times-Union reports Byron Leftwich will remain the immediate backup to Mark Brunell. "I'm pretty secure where he is right now [as the No. 2 quarterback]," coach Jack Del Rio said.
Analysis: Leftwich might not be the No. 1 now, but expect him to get the nod over Brunell as the season progresses.
News: Jack Del Rio told the Florida Times-Union Byron Leftwitch will be Mark Brunell's primary backup "until we say otherwise."
Analysis: David Garrard now drops to the No. 3 QB spot. Leftwich might be useful as a Fantasy backup if he gets a chance to start later in the year.
News: Mark Brunell was named Jacksoville's opening day starter after Thursday's preseason game. Byron Leftwich will now vie for the backup job with David Garrard, according to the Florida Times-Union. Leftwich completed 11-of-14 passes for 100 yards on Thursday and might edge out Garrard for the No. 2 spot. "You could see that both Byron and David are talented guys, but Byron looked very good," Jack Del Rio said.
Analysis: Leftwich still could get a chance to start this year if Brunell struggles.
News: Byron Leftwich completed 7-of-10 passes for 84 yards with a touchdown in Friday's preseason game against Miami. He ended his 19-day holdout this week and only had a few days to prepare for action.
Analysis: Leftwich will be an excellent Fantasy option in a couple years. He should be drafted in keeper leagues only.
News: Byron Leftwich ended his 19-day holdout when he signed a seven-year deal with Jacksonville on Wednesday, according to the Florida Times-Union. He began practicing with the team Wednesday morning.
Analysis: Leftwich has great quarterback skills, but has been saddled with the injury-prone label. He might end up with some playing time later in the season depending how well the Jaguars play under encumbent Mark Brunell. Leftwich is a very good keeper prospect. He probably won't play in Friday's preseason game against Miami.
News: The Florida Times-Union notes there has been no apparent progress in talks between the Jaguars and Byron Leftwich's agent. "It's been proven that quarterbacks, who play a position that requires a lot of thinking, at some time reach a point of diminishing returns on their ability to contribute this year," Jack Del Rio said. "We haven't reached that point yet, but it's not that far away."
Analysis: Leftwich's holdout is quickly decreasing his chances of making any notable contributions during his rookie year. He remains a good keeper league pick.
News: The Jacksonville Jaguars reported to training camp Friday, but first-round draft pick Byron Leftwich hasn't signed and is a holdout. Leftwich's agent, Tom Condon, left town Friday without a deal.
Analysis: Mark Brunell and last year's fourth-round pick, David Garrard, will get most of the work when practice starts Saturday. Leftwich is an excellent keeper league prospect. But he won't be anything better than a backup in yearly leagues if he gets a chance to play this season.
News: The Florida Times-Union says Byron Leftwich's agent, Paul Vance is continuing to hold contract talks with the Jaguars. But it wouldn't be surprising to see the rookie miss the beginning of camp on July 25. "I'm not going to do a play-by-play about where we are in the process," Vance said. "We'll work through it. That's what a negotiation is."
Analysis: Leftwich is an excellent keeper league prospect. But he won't be anything better than a backup in yearly leagues if he gets a chance to play. A holdout could hurt his progress during his first season.
