News: New Raiders GM Reggie McKenzie fired coach Hue Jackson in a bold first move as he looks to give the organization a fresh start. Jackson was responsible for the trade that brought quarterback Carson Palmer to Oakland after starter Jason Campbell broke his collarbone, costing the Raiders a 2012 first-round draft pick and a conditional 2013 second-rounder. The Raiders lost four of their final five games with Palmer, who had 2,637 yards, 13 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in his nine starts with the team.
Analysis: Palmer wasn't a horrible Fantasy option but he was woefully inconsistent. He finished his final six games the season alternating 20-plus-point Fantasy performances with 11-point-or-less efforts. What's clear is that Palmer is still capable of posting big totals (six games with at least 250 yards and four with at least 300 yards; four starts with two or more touchdowns). No one will draft him to be a starter, but assuming he still has a fast receiving corps and works in an offense he's comfortable with, expect him to be an interesting middle- to late-round pick as a quality No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was able to move the ball through the air in Week 17 against the Chargers. He completed 28 of 43 passes for a season-high 417 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in the 38-26 loss. He hooked up with WR Darrius Heyward-Bey for a 3-yard scoring strike in the first quarter before finding TE Kevin Boss from 22 yards out late in the game. He was picked off by DB Antoine Cason in the fourth quarter, halting any chance at a comeback. Palmer, who posted a 102.6 passer rating, also gained 6 yards on two carries in the defeat.
Analysis: Many thought that Palmer would not play this season but after Jason Campbell went down in Week 6, he was dealt from Cincinnati to Oakland and posted some decent numbers. While he tossed 16 interceptions in 10 games, a myriad of injuries decimated Oakland's offense, leaving him with not much to throw to. With RB Darren McFadden expected to be 100 percent healthy for 2012, Palmer will have more to work with and should be a viable option in Fantasy. Target Palmer as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer enters Week 17 against the Chargers having averaged 333 passing yards in his three starts at home this season. San Diego ranks 10th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 212 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 19.2 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Palmer threw for 299 yards with two touchdowns and an interception when he faced San Diego earlier in the season but has not been playing that well of late. He has a 5-to-7 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last four games and has been held under 280 yards passing in three of those contests. Still, he has played much better at home this season so consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 17.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer did not play well at Kansas City in Week 16 on Saturday, but he did lead Oakland to an overtime victory. Palmer was 16 of 26 passing for 237 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer continues to have inconsistent Fantasy outings to close the season, but he has the chance to play well in the season finale in Week 17 against San Diego. He faced the Chargers in Week 10 and completed 14 of 20 passes for 299 yards with two touchdowns, and he should be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB against San Diego to close the season.
News: Oakland QB Carson Palmer heads into Week 16 at Kansas City to face the team he began his 2011 season against. Palmer was signed late by the Raiders and saw his first action Week 7 against the Chiefs. He was not in rhythm in that game as he went just 8 for 21 for 116 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions. Palmer might struggle once again Week 16 as the Chiefs have been solid against the pass. Even Aaron Rodgers had his first poor performance against them in Week 15 with just 235 yards passing with one TD, snapping a string of 13 straight games with at least two TD passes.
Analysis: Palmer hasn't exactly been the most efficient quarterback since taking over the helm of the Raiders. Palmer threw for 367 yards last week with a touchdown and no picks against the Lions, but has four TDs and five picks in his last three games. Palmer has four touchdowns and six interceptions in his last three games against the Chiefs, so his matchup doesn't look too great for the Week 16 game. Palmer should be a decent Fantasy option Week 16, but he's mostly just a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer had arguably his best day of the season in Week 15, as he passed for 367 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions in the Raiders 28-27 loss to the Lions. Palmer completed 80 percent of his passes in the loss, his best rate of the season. He hooked up eight times with WR Darrius Heyward-Bey for 155 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Palmer has found a favorite target in Heyward-Bey, and the two are combining for a potent connection in recent weeks. Coming off a four-interception performance in Week 14, this was the bounce-back game Palmer needed going into the season’s final weeks. The Raiders will need Palmer to be at his best in Week 16 against the Chiefs, who have the fifth most interceptions in the NFL this season. Palmer has struggled with turnovers, so it will be important for him to avoid mistakes. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 16.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer has struggled in his comeback bid this season, with the bottom seeming to have come out in Week 14 as he threw four interceptions in a blowout loss to the Packers. He knows that time is running out to turn things around, and the Raiders at 7-6, likely need to win out to make the playoffs, starting with Week 15 against Detroit. “We have to go 3-0 in the next three weeks," he said. "There is no other option, no other route. If you want to make it to the playoffs and then you want to play well in the playoffs, you have to be playing really good football at this time of year. We got to start on Sunday.”
Analysis: The Lions have been solid against the pass this season, forcing as many interceptions, 18, as they have allowed touchdowns. That’s not a stat that bodes well for Palmer, who has 13 interceptions to nine touchdowns on the season. The Lions are squarely in the middle of the pack when it comes to allowing opposing quarterbacks to score Fantasy points, ranking 17th in the league. However, they have given up an average of 28.5 Fantasy points per game over the last four games, so Palmer is catching them at the right time to begin his turnaround. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 15.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer had a performance to forget in Week 14 against the Packers. He completed 24 of 42 passes for 245 yards and a touchdown but was picked off four times in the 46-16 loss. He tossed his first interception on the first drive of the game before doing so again in the second quarter. He was intercepted by LB Rob Francois in the end zone later in the half before tossing the game-clincher late in the fourth quarter. “I put us in a position not to win, turning the ball over and not taking advantage of opportunities," Palmer said. "That is what cost us this game. I did not play well enough to give us a chance to win.” His lone scoring strike on the day also came in the fourth quarter, when he found TE Kevin Boss from 5 yards out. Palmer, who also gained 12 yards on two carries, posted a 42.4 passer rating in the defeat.
Analysis: Palmer had been more careful with the ball in recent weeks but the Packers' ball-hawking defense was able to come up with some turnovers on Sunday. It was the third time in seven games that he tossed at least three interceptions, and his passer rating was his lowest since posting a 17.3 mark in Week 7. While the Raiders have been banged up on offense all season long, the 31-year-old has been too inconsistent to trust in Fantasy so consider Palmer as a No. 2 option for Week 15 against the Lions.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer will be going up against a Packers defense in Week 14 that has not fared too well against the pass thus far. Green Bay ranks 31st in the league in pass defense, giving up nearly 293 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 20.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. In two career games against the Packers -- both while he was on Cincinnati -- Palmer has thrown for 422 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer has been inconsistent so far this season but has not been turning the ball over as much of late. After tossing six interceptions in his first two games, he has been picked off just three times since then with five touchdown passes over that span. While Green Bay has given up a ton of yards through the air thus far, their ball-hawking defense has recorded 23 interceptions thus far, with a handful of those being returned for touchdowns. Continue to view Palmer as more of a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 14.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was eight minutes away from being held without a passing touchdown for the second straight week, but he finished with a flourish in Week 13. Palmer's late heroics were not enough, though, as the Raiders were still trounced by the Dolphins, 34-14. After Miami had already run up a 34-point lead, Palmer connected with WRs T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Darrius Heyward-Bey for touchdowns, and he finished with 20 completions on 41 passes for 273 yards with an interception. Palmer also ran the ball once for 2 yards.
Analysis: It looked like it was going to be Palmer's worst game since his Raiders debut in Week 7, but he put up some garbage-time stats and provided some value for his Fantasy owners. What Palmer accomplished over the first 52 minutes, though, was not encouraging, so even with a favorable matchup in Week 14 against the Packers, he is a very risky start. Owners should still consider him to be a No. 2 Fantasy QB for the coming week.
News: In his first two games with the Raiders, QB Carson Palmer showed the rust from his extended layoff, throwing six interceptions. In the three games since, however, Palmer has been picked off only twice. Palmer has a good chance to continue that recent trend in Week 13 when he faces the Dolphins. The Miami defense has reeled in only eight interceptions all season, which ties them for eighth-fewest in the league. Palmer should also have little problem racking up yardage against the Dolphins' 24th-ranked passing defense.
Analysis: This could shape up to be one of Palmer's better weeks this year, but he still has to show that he can get the Raiders into the end zone. He has thrown for more than one touchdown in only two of his five starts, and with a 17 percent red zone touchdown rate, owners cannot assume that he will turn the tide in Week 13. Despite the favorable matchup, owners should view Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was without two of his top receivers in Week 12 vs. the Bears, and he struggled as a result in the Raiders 25-20 win. He passed for 301 yards and interception and no touchdowns. While he did top 300 yards for the second time this season, he threw his eighth interception in five games and didn't find the end zone for the first time since his ugly debut in Week 7.
Analysis: Stepping in as a starting quarterback in the middle of a season is a tough task, and the Raiders' receiving corps has been in a state of flux as they've been dealing with injuries and inconsistencies within their unit, which hasn't made Palmer's job any easier. He appeared to have figured it out in his previous two starts, but Week 12 was just an indication of the type of inconsistency his Fantasy owners will have to deal with from Palmer. The Raiders have been at their best when they've focused on the running game anyways, so they'll try to limit Palmer's responsibilities wherever they can. Palmer faces the 10th worst defense against Fantasy QBs in Week 13, as the Raiders head to Miami to take on the Dolphins. Despite the favorable matchup, Palmer may still be dealing with a receiving corps in flux, so he shouldn't be considered anything more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 13.
News: Oakland QB Carson Palmer takes on the Bears for the third time in his career in Week 12. The last two times he faced them, once in 2005 and once in 2009, he has thrown for 402 yards, eight touchdowns, and zero interceptions. His 141.1 passer rating against them is his best against any team in the NFL. Complicating things for him, however, is the fact that he is currently practicing without four of his WRs, as Jacoby Ford (foot), Denarius Moore (foot), Darrius Heyward-Bey (neck/concussion) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (undisclosed) all missed practice on Wednesday.
Analysis: It's a mixed bag looking forward for Palmer. While he's got a great past against Chicago, that past came when he was at the helm of one of the NFL's top offenses in Cincinnati. The Bears currently rank 16th in points allowed to Fantasy QBs, at 17.41 per game, however those points come extremely inefficiently for opposing QBs. The Bears have had almost 42 passing attempts per game against them, highest in the league, so when you account for that, they've been pretty good on a per-pass basis. Keep an eye on the injury statuses of his receivers, and consider Palmer a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 12.
News: On the road in Week 11 against a Vikings defense that entered the game ranked 30th against the pass, Raiders QB Carson Palmer had a chance to improve on his 315.5 yards per start. Instead, he threw for only 164 on a day when the Raiders jumped out to a 24-7 lead in the first half. Palmer was a big reason for that lead, contributing two touchdowns -- an 11-yard pass to Chaz Schilens early in the second quarter and a 1-yard run just before halftime -- but he threw for only 55 yards in the second half as the Raiders gave the Vikings a healthy dose of RB Michael Bush.
Analysis: The Raiders did ask Palmer to throw some late after a 14-point fourth quarter brought the Vikings back to within striking defense, but the Minnesota pass rush got the better of him then, sacking him twice on the Raiders' final three drives. The pass rush was a problem for Palmer pretty much all game, which is part of the reason why his longest completion was only 21 yards. The performance was a bit of a disappointment for Palmer's Fantasy owners considering the matchup, but then again, two touchdowns is nothing to complain about. The Raiders likely won't be able to build up such a big lead Week 12 against the Bears, so you can expect Palmer's yardage to increase. Of course, with the bye weeks over, he likely won't be one of the 12 best quarterbacks you could start in Fantasy.
News: So far, so good for QB Carson Palmer with the Raiders. “It’s been great," he said. "Just a different attitude, different organization. Sometimes that’s what players need." In two starts, Palmer has five touchdown passes and is averaging 315.5 yards. And he could be in for his best performance yet Week 11 at Minnesota. The Vikings rank 30th against the pass, allowing 272.8 yards per game, and just gave up four passing touchdowns to Packers QB Aaron Rodgers last week. Better yet, they're now without DB Antoine Winfield, who was placed on injured reserve Wednesday with a broken clavicle. "It definitely changes things," Palmer said. "He’s been a great player in this league for a long time."
Analysis: The Vikings allow 22.4 Fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, second-most in the NFL, and that was with Winfield in the lineup. True, the Raiders have a tendency to lean on their running game from time to time, but considering the Vikings rank sixth in run defense, allowing 93.9 yards per game, you can bet the Raiders will give Palmer every opportunity to shine. Given the numbers, you can understand why Palmer is the CBSSports.com Start of the Week for Week 11. He's normally a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but you should feel confident using him as a No. 1 option this week.
News: After tossing six interceptions in his first two games with the Raiders, QB Carson Palmer looked much better in Week 10 against the Chargers. He completed 14 of 20 passes for 299 yards with two touchdowns in the 24-17 win. His first score came in the second quarter when he found WR Denarius Moore from 33 yards out and he was able to hook up with Moore again in the third on a 26-yard scoring strike. Palmer did toss a pick in the red zone, however, but he was hit while throwing the ball. Palmer also gained minus-8 yards on three carries in the victory.
Analysis: Palmer nearly threw for 300 yards in back-to-back games on Thursday night but fell just short. Still, it was nice to see him make some deep plays in the passing game, particularly to Moore. He should only continue to improve as he gets himself into game shape again so keep an eye on his progress going forward. With the Vikings up next on the schedule, Palmer might be worth a look as a bye-week replacement.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was active for Thursday's contest versus the Chargers. Palmer was limited in practice earlier in the week because of a quadriceps injury. San Diego enters Thursday ranked fourth-best in the NFL against the pass, giving up under 192 yards per game, but have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Palmer has thrown for 448 yards with three touchdowns and six interception in his two games for Oakland, and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB in Week 10.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was able to practice in full on Wednesday in preparation for his Week 10 matchup against the Chargers. Palmer had been limited in practice on Monday and Tuesday due to a quadriceps injury. San Diego enters Thursday ranked fourth-best in the NFL against the pass, giving up under 192 yards per game, but have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Palmer was able to practice in full on Wednesday and should be good to go for Thursday night's matchup against the Chargers. However, since he is still listed on the injury report, Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. Palmer has thrown for 448 yards with three touchdowns and six interception in his two games for Oakland, and should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB in Week 10.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer will be going up against one of the better pass defenses in the league in the Chargers in Week 10. San Diego enters Thursday ranked fourth-best in the NFL against the pass, giving up under 192 yards per game, but have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Palmer was limited in practice on Tuesday due to a quad injury.
Analysis: After being picked off three times in his first appearance with the Raiders, Palmer did so again in Week 9 but at least he was able to toss three touchdowns. He has thrown for 448 yards with three touchdowns and six interception in his two games thus far. He is still getting used to things in Oakland but luckily he has some talent at the skill positions. Keep an eye on his progress going forward as he should get better with each passing week. But since the Chargers don't pose the best matchup for the 31-year-old, consider Palmer as more of a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 10.
News: Oakland QB Carson Palmer completed 19 of his 35 passes for 332 yards and three touchdowns during the Raiders’ 38-24 loss to Denver in Week 9. Palmer, making his first start with Oakland, also recorded three interceptions. It was the second straight game he was picked off three times as he also did it during his team debut when he replaced QB Kyle Boller against Kansas City in Week 7. Palmer finished with 138 passing yards in the first half alone on Sunday -- easily surpassing his total from his first game (116) -- to register a QB rating of 79.7. "It's kind of a crash course the last couple weeks," Palmer said. "It's like you're jamming or cramming for a final or a test."
Analysis: It appears the bye week helped Palmer learn the offense as he looked more polished during his second game with the Raiders. The 31-year-old veteran rebounded from a poor showing two weeks ago and completed 54.3 percent of his passes. He hit eight different receivers with passes and favored Denarius Moore with 13 targets. Palmer still has some work to do, but his three scores are an encouraging sign he’s developing with Oakland after seven seasons in Cincinnati. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 10 at San Diego, his first road game.
News: After a much-needed bye, Oakland QB Carson Palmer is expected to make his first start of the season in Week 9 against Denver. Palmer struggled in his first game with the Raiders during Week 7 and threw three interceptions in a 28-0 loss to Kansas City. He was acquired five days before the game and only participated in three practices before being inserted for ineffective starting QB Kyle Boller. “I put him in a very tough situation,” Oakland coach Hue Jackson said. Palmer (22,810) needs 190 passing yards to reach 23,000 career.
Analysis: Palmer's unfamiliarity with the offense showed in his first game of the season as he finished 8 of 21 passing for 116 yards. “This bye week may be the most valuable to me of anybody in the league,” Palmer said. In an effort to ease Palmer’s transition, the Raiders signed WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh on Tuesday. The two were teammates in Cincinnati for six seasons. Palmer impressed coaches with his progression during the bye week and the Broncos have struggled containing opposing quarterbacks this year, allowing an average of 23.7 Fantasy points per game. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 9.
News: The Raiders got back to work Monday coming off their Week 8 bye and coach Hue Jackson was pleased with what he saw from QB Carson Palmer in prep for Week 9 against the Broncos. "I thought (Palmer) looked really sharp today," Jackson said. "He did some really good things today. He really has a grasp of what we're trying to accomplish. I think when I heard of what those guys did on those two days, spending time together really showed out here. Guys were able to make some plays that I think for the first couple of days, really didn't. So that was improvement, like I said, he's a pro, he understands what he needs to do, he's go to adjust his game a little bit to them and they've got to adjust their game to him. I think that process is underway."
Analysis: Palmer is expected to make his first start with Oakland on Sunday and he spent a great deal of time during the bye week building rapport with his receivers. He might even have another familiar face in the fold since Oakland is looking at bringing in Palmer's former Cincinnati teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh. However, Palmer looked pretty bad in Week 7 against the Chiefs, so we need to temper expectations Week 9. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: The Raiders are officially off Thursday-Sunday during the bye week, but most of the receivers plan to remain in the Bay Area so they can spend more time working on their own with new starting QB Carson Palmer. “I think that's more important than going home,” WR Jacoby Ford said. “Yeah, everybody wants to go home, but you definitely want to get this thing right with Carson.”
Analysis: Palmer, who was acquired in a trade last week, didn't start Sunday against the Chiefs but came off the bench in the second half after Kyle Boller was ineffective. Unfortunately, Palmer was just as bad. He went 8 for 21 for 116 yards and three interceptions. Even before Palmer played Sunday, the speculation was that he wasn't going to start until after the bye in Week 9 vs. Denver. Palmer will probably be under center for that game and we can only hope the results will be better. But Palmer is a No. 2 Fantasy QB until he settles into a rhythm.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer did not fare well in his Oakland debut in Week 7 against the Chiefs. Palmer, who replaced starter Kyle Boller on the team's second possession of the second half, threw three interceptions in his debut, including one that was returned 58 yards for a touchdown by Brandon Flowers in the fourth quarter. Palmer completed eight of his 21 pass attempts for 116 yards in the 28-0 defeat, but was unable to get the Raiders into the end zone. He completed a pass to seven different receivers and wound up with a QB rating of just 17.3. It was just an awful feeling walking off the field to be beat like that in the fashion that we were beat," Palmer said. "We need to regroup."
Analysis: Well that didn't go like many thought it would, but Palmer was put in a tough spot on Sunday afternoon. While he does have some experience running Hue Jackson's offense, six days is clearly not enough time to come in and learn all the nuances of an offense, especially coming off a nearly 10-month layoff. The Raiders have a bye in Week 8, so Palmer will now have an extra week of practice before he takes the field again, which should help him get some of his timing back. He should be all set to make his first start of the season in Week 9 against Denver, although the Raiders have yet to officially announce him as the starter. Still, the Raiders didn't trade for him to sit on the bench, so Fantasy owners can consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into his matchup against Denver in two weeks.
News: Raiders QB Carson Palmer was brought in in relief of starter Kyle Boller in Week 7 against the Chiefs. Palmer replaced Boller on the team's first possession of the second half. This is the first time he has ever come off the bench in his professional career.
Analysis: Palmer spent the first half on the sideline, but was finally inserted into the game into the third quarter. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how he fares in his first game out in Oakland. Palmer will likely be the starter for the remainder of the season following the team's bye in Week 8.
News: Raiders QB Kyle Boller got the start over Carson Palmer in Week 7 against the Chiefs. Oakland did not officially name who would be taking snaps under center leading up to the contest.
Analysis: No official announcement was made, but Boller ran out on the field with the first team on Oakland's first offensive possession. However, Palmer is expected to see some snaps at some point in the game, so check back to see how both fare against Kansas City.
News: CBS Sports analyst Ian Eagle reported on Fantasy Football Today that, after holding conversations with QBs Carson Palmer and Kyle Boller, he feels that Boller will get the start in Week 7 against the Chiefs. The Raiders acquired Palmer this week at the trade deadline after losing starter Jason Campbell to a collarbone injury in Week 6.
Analysis: It's been a crazy week of speculation about Palmer. First, it was that he was going to start. But then the tide changed to not likely to start as the week progressed. It seems as though he won't start Week 7, but that doesn't mean he won't see the field. Even coach Hue Jackson said Friday that he might use two QBs on Sunday. But it's clear that you are taking a big gamble by starting Palmer, even if he does start Sunday. Check back for news later in the day.
Report: Boller, not Palmer, will start for Raiders
News: NFL Network reported Friday afternoon that Kyle Boller will start for the Raiders in Week 7 against the Chiefs, not newly acquired Carson Palmer. Boller replaced Jason Campbell last week in the Raiders win over the Browns and went 8 of 14 for 100 yards. However, coach Hue Jackson said he has yet to chose a starting quarterback for Sunday's matchup. “I’ll make the right decision for our football team as we draw closer to the game," Jackson said. "I’m not in a rush.” Kansas City enters Sunday's contest ranked 17th in passing defense, allowing 249.6 yards per game. The Chiefs have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and have allowed an average of 22.4 Fantasy points to opposing QBs on the season.
Analysis: There still seems to be some conflicting reports on Palmers' status for Sunday, but the latest news appears to have Boller getting the nod. However, there is some speculation that the Raiders could turn to Palmer at some point in the game, if only to get his feet wet and run a few plays that he's comfortable with. But that's no guarantee. The unfortunate reality is that neither Raiders QB is worth starting in Fantasy this week, but if you must start one, Boller is safer since he's been named the starter. Come Week 9, when the Raiders play again, Palmer should be the starter.
News: ESPN reports two people familiar with the situation believe it's unlikely Raiders QB Carson Palmer will start Week 7 against the Chiefs. "I'm 95 percent sure he is not going to play," one source said Friday. "Practicing Wednesday and Thursday, he felt he's not ready to make those high-velocity throws yet. Maybe they could decide something at the last minute, but I don't think he's going to play." NFL Network also reports that people involved in Raiders practices this week feel it would be ambitious for Palmer to start Sunday. A final decision hasn't been made if the newly acquired Palmer or Kyle Boller will start; Hue Jackson said he'll decide on Friday.
Analysis: This situation continues to remain in flux. Early in the week it appeared Palmer was a slam dunk to start even though he just joined the team this week via a trade. Now, reports later in the week state it's iffy he will start Week 7. We like the fact Palmer is back in the NFL and in a good situation, but perhaps Fantasy owners should look to other alternatives Week 7, even if Palmer gets the nod. He is still worth adding off waivers, however.
News: ESPN reports Raiders QB Carson Palmer is expected to start Week 7 against the Chiefs. Palmer was acquired in a trade with Cincinnati on Tuesday as a replacement for Jason Campbell, who is out at least six weeks with a collarbone injury. Coach Hue Jackson would not confirm the report in a conference call with the media, saying that he needs to see Palmer practice first. However, offensive coordinator Al Saunders indicated during a radio interview with 610 AM in Kansas City that Palmer would get "real consideration" to start Sunday. Saunders added that "as long as (Palmer's) breathing," then that's all he would need to see for the veteran QB to be successful Week 7.
Analysis: The Raiders seem to have a lot of faith in Palmer and not so much in backup Kyle Boller, who was originally expected to start at least Week 7. The Raiders didn't pay a hefty price for Palmer to sit out, but a lot of people were expecting him to sit idle until Week 9 when the team returns from its Week 8 bye. But Palmer has a history with his new head coach dating back to their days in Cincinnati and USC and has been working out as he was holding out, so it seems Oakland is confident with him starting immediately. It's just that Palmer is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB until we see how well he plays with his new team. He is the most added player in CBSSports.com leagues.
News: The Raiders confirmed at Tuesday's NFL trade deadline that they acquired QB Carson Palmer from the Bengals. The Bengals acquired a first-round pick in 2012 and a second-round pick in 2013. Palmer signed a restructured four-year contract with Oakland that will pay him $2.5 million for the rest of this year, $12.5 million in 2012, $13 million in 2013 and $15 million in 2014, according to the NFL Network. "I’m not going to let that out of the bag just yet, but you got to be ready for anything from me," coach Hue Jackson said when asked if Palmer would start against the Chiefs.
Analysis: Palmer demanded a trade from Cincinnati back in January and is getting out and going to a playoff contender. He's been staying in shape, working with a quarterbacks coach on his own, and he'll be reunited with Hue Jackson, who he worked with previously in Cincinnati. A likely scenario is that he becomes the Raiders starter in Week 9 vs. the Broncos, after the team's Week 8 bye. The Raiders lost starter Jason Campbell for an extended amount of time -- possibly the season -- due to a collarbone injury suffered in Week 6. Fantasy owners should absolutely put in a waiver claim for Palmer immediately and use him as either a piece in a trade or as a potential starting option for down the road. We'll continue to update you on this situation, including whether or not he'll make a start on Sunday.
News: CBSSports.com NFL insider Mike Freeman has confirmed that the Bengals and Raiders are close to a trade that would send Carson Palmer to the Raiders in exchange for a first-round pick in 2012 and a conditional pick in 2013. The story was first reported by FOX Sports. The trade is expected to be completed before Tuesday's 4 p.m. ET trade deadline. One team official said the deal was "all but done" and should be announced sometime on Tuesday.
Analysis: Palmer demanded a trade from Cincinnati back in January and is getting out and going to a playoff contender. He's been staying in shape, working with a quarterbacks coach on his own, and he'll be reunited with Hue Jackson, who he worked with previously in Cincinnati. A likely scenario is that he becomes the Raiders starter in Week 9 vs. the Broncos, after the team's Week 8 bye. The Raiders lost starter Jason Campbell for an extended amount of time -- possibly the season -- due to a collarbone injury suffered in Week 6. Fantasy owners should absolutely put in a waiver claim for Palmer immediately and use him as either a piece in a trade or as a potential starting option for down the road. We'll continue to update you on this situation, including whether or not he'll make a start on Sunday.
News: Yahoo Sports reports the Raiders have inquired to the Bengals about QB Carson Palmer after their starter -- Jason Campbell -- suffered a broken collarbone on Sunday. Earlier in the week, Cincinnati owner Mike Brown said that the team has no plans to trade Palmer before Tuesday's deadline.
Analysis: The report said that the Raiders are "trying hard" to acquire Palmer but the Bengals have been steadfast in their motto that if Palmer plays football again, it will be for the Bengals. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation going forward to see if the two teams can strike a deal. If Palmer indeed heads west to Oakland, he will still likely be nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB most weeks.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals owner Mike Brown said Thursday that the team has no plans to trade Carson Palmer before Tuesday's deadline. “I don’t have anything more to say on that. I’ve had my say on that and it remains all there is to say,” Brown said. Brown also wouldn't tip his hat about what his plans are for Palmer now that rookie QB Andy Dalton has the team 3-2 heading into Week 6. “I think he’s our quarterback right now and he’s doing very well," Brown said of Dalton. "I’m pleased with how he’s doing and think he can be the guy here.”
Analysis: The Bengals are taking a hard stance with Palmer, who has threatened retirement if he isn't traded. Well, Palmer hasn't gone that far yet and is hoping for a happy resolution with Cincinnati. But unless something miraculous happens over the weekend, then it seems Palmer is at least going to sit out the 2011 season. He still has marginal Fantasy appeal in the deepest of long-term keeper formats, but continue to leave Palmer off seasonal league rosters.
News: According to sources, Carson Palmer visited the Bengals in late July, and the team believes he might report next week in an effort to get traded. Palmer is holding out of camp after asking for a trade earlier this year. The Bengals have made it clear that they are keeping him on the roster and not dealing him off. Palmer, in turn, is apparently prepared to retire rather than play on the Bengals but could return to the team and not retire.
Analysis: Here's the thing: If Palmer shows up, he'll be a highly-paid backup in Cincinnati. There's hardly any chance the team will start him when he doesn't know Jay Gruden's playbook while rookie Andy Dalton does. If the Bengals don't trade him, they'll have to pay him, and that's probably not something the penny-pinching franchise wants to do. Stay tuned -- we could see Palmer end up elsewhere (Seattle, perhaps?) before the season officially kicks off.
News: Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden didn't sound optimistic Monday during an interview with NFL Sirius Radio that QB Carson Palmer would be returning to the team. “I don’t see that happening," Gruden said. “In order to play quarterback at this level in the new system, I would think he would want to practice and obviously he’s made a decision very clear that he’s not coming back. But if he did walk in I’d welcome him back I’d suppose. He’d have to win the job.”
Analysis: The Bengals appear ready to open the season with rookie Andy Dalton under center. Palmer wants a trade, but the Bengals have stood their ground and refuse to do so. Palmer is on the Reserve/Did Not Report list and it doesn't appear he will be playing in the NFL this season. Unless you hear otherwise, then avoid drafting Palmer in seasonal Fantasy formats.
News: The Bengals put QB Carson Palmer on the Reserve/Did Not Report list on Friday, ensuring that they keep his rights. Palmer is holding out of camp after asking for a trade earlier this year. The Bengals have made it clear that they are keeping him on the roster and not dealing him off. Palmer, in turn, is apparently prepared to retire rather than play on the Bengals.
Analysis: At this point it looks like Palmer won't play football in 2011. He could force the issue by returning the Bengals camp, but the team might just as well start him if he comes back. Either way, Fantasy owners should probably not draft Palmer unless it's with a very late pick in a very deep draft.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals owner Mike Brown said Tuesday that QB Carson Palmer will retire. Palmer has threatened to retire if he was not traded, and it appears like Brown is not changing his mind about trading his franchise passer. “I honesty like Carson Palmer," Brown said. "He was a splendid player for us. He is a good person. I wish him well and he has retired. That is his choice. I’m not expecting him to be back. Carson signed a contract, he made a commitment. He gave us his word. We relied on his word and his commitment. We expected him to perform here. If he is going to walk away from his commitment we aren’t going to reward him for doing it.”
Analysis: We don't expect this to be the final word on Palmer's situation, and he might have a different opinion now that Brown has made his intentions clear. Fantasy owners need to monitor the situation because if Palmer changes his mind and returns to the Bengals or he is traded then he could still be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB. But if Brown's comments are final and Palmer is retired then he would have minimal Fantasy value in 2011 and would not be worth drafting in any leagues.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will now have to make a decision on his future with training camp set to start. Since owner Mike Brown’s position of not trading him has not changed, Palmer has two options – report to training camp and return as the team’s starter or file retirement papers. The Bengals could place Palmer on the Reserve/Did Not Report list, which means the remaining four years of his contract tolls. If he sat out the year and then came back next year, there would still be four years remaining. Another thing the team could do is fine him for each day he does not report for training camp.
Analysis: We will continue to monitor what happens with Palmer and what the Bengals decide to do with him. If he plays in 2011 with the Bengals or another team he would be a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB in the majority of formats. But if he remains stubborn and decides to sit out or possible retire then he would have no Fantasy value in the majority of leagues. Keep an eye on what develops, and we hope Palmer plays this season.
News: The Sports Xchange reports that QB Carson Palmer isn't waiting for the Bengals to move him out of Cincinnati via trade. At least, it wouldn't appear that way. Palmer solid his five-bedroom home in Indian Hill for $1.915 million, according to Cincinnati.com, which said a local buyer closed on the purchase of the home, listed for $2.1 million for more than 90 days, late Tuesday. Palmer is entering his ninth pro season but has demanded the Bengals trade or release him. If they don't, Palmer said he'll file his retirement papers with the NFL and walk away from a base salary of $11.5 million this season and the four total years left on the deal. The Bengals drafted a quarterback in the second round, TCU's Andy Dalton, and owner Mike Brown repeatedly has taken the position that the franchise isn't planning to accomodate trade demands from any player. Palmer, the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2003, bought the home and the five acres of property it stands on in the Cincinnati area for just over $2 million in 2003.
Analysis: We continue to wait for the end of the lockout to find out what Palmer and the Bengals are going to do. If he retires then obviously he would not have any Fantasy value. If he stays with the Bengals and remains the starter then he would continue to be a No. 2 Fantasy QB in all leagues. He value would likely remain at that level if he's traded, and possible suitors could include Arizona, Seattle, Miami, Tennessee and Minnesota. Stay tuned.
News: According to NFL.com, Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco said in a local TV interview that he's convinced QB Carson Palmer is serious about his plans to retire if the team doesn't trade him. Bengals owner Mike Brown repeatedly has said he won't deal Palmer. "There's this one thing you have to understand about Carson. When a guy that grows a random beard says he's going to do something, he means it," Ochocinco said. "Seriously. Seriously, That's totally out of his character. When someone like that grows a random beard and says he's going to retire -- if he doesn't get traded -- he means business. And it's unfortunate, but it is what it is."
Analysis: We'll find out if Palmer will play in 2011 or stick to his word about retirement if he isn't traded. And if the Bengals do send him elsewhere -- Miami, Seattle and Arizona are possible destinations -- then his value will be determined by where he plays. Plan on drafting Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick, but continue to monitor what develops.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that CBS analyst Boomer Esiason, who is a former Bengals QB, said he understands why the Bengals drafted rookie QB Andy Dalton with Carson Palmer's status in limbo. Palmer, the Cincinnati starter the past seven seasons, demanded a trade this offseason and said he would retire if he's not dealt. President Mike Brown has said the team has no plans to trade Palmer. "I think the Brown family thinks Carson is serious about retiring and did something if he holds true," Esiason said of the Bengals drafting Dalton. With the Bengals having only two winning seasons the past 20 years, Esiason, who was 62-61 as a Bengals starter, knows what Palmer has gone through. "He's checked out of the Cincinnati hotel," Esiason said. "He doesn't want to deal with Bengaldom. I sympathize with him."
Analysis: We'll find out if Palmer will play in 2011 or stick to his word about retirement if he isn't traded. And if the Bengals do send him elsewhere -- Miami, Seattle and Arizona are possible destinations -- then his value will be determined by where he plays. Plan on drafting Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick, but continue to monitor what develops.
News: Bengals offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth said to NFL.com that the team has "moved on" from QB Carson Palmer and that rookie QB Andy Dalton is "competitive" with a temperament similar to Drew Brees. "(Palmer is) the kind of guy when he says something he means it," Whitworth said. "I feel like people are taking him seriously and we're prepared. He made a decision he feels is best for him and his family and we've moved on." Palmer has threatened to retire if he's not traded, and Bengals owner Mike Brown said Palmer won't be dealt. Brown and coach Marvin Lewis have said Palmer would be welcomed back but they're set to proceed without him. Other players, such as RB Cedric Benson, have said if Palmer doesn't want to be with the team, Cincinnati is better off without him.
Analysis: We'll find out if Palmer is true to his word and decides to retire. And if he does change his mind and decides to return to the Bengals, he would have a lot to prove to his teammates based on some of these statements from Whitworth and Benson. Still, Palmer has plenty of talent, and we hope he plays somewhere in 2011. Since it doesn't appear like the Bengals will trade him, hopefully he can return to Cincinnati and be welcomed with open arms. He's still worth drafting as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he should only be selected with a late-round pick.
News: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said during a radio interview on ESPN 101 in St. Louis that rookie QB Andy Dalton could start for Cincinnati this year. “Well that’s something we are going to have to see what happens and how it plays out, but there’s no question when we selected Andy Dalton we selected him with that in mind that he’d possibly be our opening day starting quarterback," Lewis said. QB Carson Palmer has requested a trade or threatened retirement, which could open the door for Dalton to win the job. Lewis is not waiting around for Palmer. "That’s his prerogative, so at this point in his career he decided to retire, so that’s the thing you gotta really feel good about and accept that we know that you are going to have people who are totally committed to competing and playing football in the National Football League or else you’re football team is the first to know that, so you don’t make those decisions," Lewis said. "Those decisions don’t come overnight. Those are things that sit in your belly for a long time and they really have a tendency to bother you, so it’s good decision that he made to move on with the rest of his life and we understand that and accept that. We’ve put things together to move forward and we’re excited about it."
Analysis: When the Bengals drafted Dalton it seemed to indicate that they were moving in a different direction, but they have been known to make unconventional moves before. We'll find out if Palmer will play in 2011 or stick to his word about retirement if he isn't traded. And if the Bengals do send him elsewhere -- Miami, Seattle and Arizona are possible destinations -- then his value will be determined by where he plays. Plan on drafting Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick, but continue to monitor what develops.
News: As the Bengals players hosted a workout for themselves this week, backup QB Jordan Palmer, the younger brother of embattled QB Carson Palmer, told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he was focused on his own work, not anything that his brother was doing. Palmer requested a trade earlier this offseason and was denied by team owner Mike Brown even though Palmer threatened retirement if he's not dealt. "The route I'm taking is I'm focused on the Bengals and myself," Jordan Palmer said. "I'm getting myself prepared to be the guy and if I'm not I want to get this team as prepared as they can be. I'm separating myself from what Carson is doing. He's my brother but he's a former teammate going a different route and I'm focusing in what is front of me."
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would definitely be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. With potential to be an attractive No. 2 Fantasy QB worth drafting in Rounds 10 or 11 in every format, Palmer's a guy we'll continue to keep you posted on.
News: In news that should surprise no one, the Bengals are expected to run players-only workouts without QB Carson Palmer. Bengals offensive tackle Andrew Whitworth organized the workout and said he invited the entire offense. "I know all the quarterbacks will be there, excluding Carson," he said. Palmer requested a trade earlier this offseason and was denied by team owner Mike Brown even though Palmer threatened retirement if he's not dealt.
Analysis: While Brown has remained steadfast in his desire to keep Palmer, coach Marvin Lewis and teammates including RB Cedric Benson have hinted that the quarterback will not return. Frankly, Palmer's Fantasy value would get a boost if he were to leave Cincinnati, but that's very much up in the air right now. We'll continue to deliver the latest on this No. 2 Fantasy QB when we get it.
News: Bengals owner Mike Brown told NFL.com Monday that the team does not plan on trading QB Carson Palmer when the offseason begins. Palmer requested a trade earlier this offseason and has threatened to retire if the Bengals don't deal him. Cincinnati drafted TCU quarterback Andy Dalton in April, but that apparently was not an indication of the team's intention to deal Palmer. "We don't plan to trade Carson," Brown said. "He's important to us. He's a very fine player, and we do want him to come back. If he chooses not to, he'd retire. And we would go with Andy Dalton, the younger player we drafted, who's a good prospect. Ideally, we'd have both of them. That'd be the best way to go forward. If we don't have Carson, we'll go with Andy."
Analysis: While Brown has remained steadfast in his desire to keep Palmer, coach Marvin Lewis and teammates including RB Cedric Benson have hinted that the quarterback will not return. Frankly, Palmer's Fantasy value would get a boost if he were to leave Cincinnati, but that's very much up in the air right now. We'll continue to deliver the latest on this No. 2 Fantasy QB when we get it.
News: For the first time since QB Carson Palmer indicated he wants to be traded from Cincinnati or retire, a prominent member of the Bengals indicated that leaving might be a good idea. Bengals RB Cedric Benson said on a radio show Tuesday that bringing back Palmer "wouldn't be healthy." It appears like the Bengals are moving in a different direction after drafting Andy Dalton in the second round of the NFL Draft, but they still might not be willing to trade Palmer. "To bring him back would be detrimental to the team," Benson said. "If he's there and not happy, he's not going to give us his best." Coach Marvin Lewis also tried to clear up what's going on with Palmer also. "Carson feels like his time here is over," Lewis said Wednesday. "He feels like the best thing is to retire and spend time with family." But, Lewis added, "If Palmer comes back he would be the starting QB and we would groom Andy to be the QB of the future."
Analysis: When the Bengals drafted Dalton it seemed to indicate that they were moving in a different direction, but they have been known to make unconventional moves before. We'll find out if Palmer will play in 2011 or stick to his word about retirement if he isn't traded. And if the Bengals do send him elsewhere -- Miami, Seattle and Arizona are possible destinations -- then his value will be determined by where he plays. Plan on drafting Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB with a late-round pick, but continue to monitor what develops.
News: With Carson Palmer insisting he wants out, the Bengals took TCU's Andy Dalton in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. That could mean that the Bengals are preparing to trade Palmer once the NFL offseason starts. Palmer requested a trade earlier this offseason and was denied my team owner Mike Brown, but Palmer has threatened retirement if he's not dealt. Dalton's arrival signals a change of heart by the Bengals brass; no official announcement was made regarding Palmer's future during draft weekend.
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would definitely be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. If he lands in Arizona (Larry Fitzgerald), San Francisco (Michael Crabtree, Vernon Davis), Tennessee (Kenny Britt) or Minnesota (Percy Harvin, Sidney Rice), he'll have some big upside and become an attractive No. 2 Fantasy QB worth drafting in Rounds 10 or 11 in every format. We'll keep you posted on this.
News: Might the Miami Dolphins be interested in embattled Bengals QB Carson Palmer? The Miami Herald reports that the Fins aren't shutting down the idea of Palmer coming to South Florida, and that the Bengals are possibly changing their stance on not trading Palmer. A recent ESPN report linked Eagles backup QB Kevin Kolb to Cincinnati, which suggests that the Bengals would deal Palmer. Bengals owner Mike Brown has firmly said that he would not trade Palmer, which in turn led Palmer to say that he'll retire if he's not traded.
Analysis: In Miami, Palmer would gun to Brandon Marshall and Davone Bess, which would be a nice upgrade compared to what he's got in Cincinnati right now. Palmer could easily top 225 yards each week in Miami and be a candidate for several multi-touchdown games. Frankly, Palmer's Fantasy value would get a boost if he leaves Cincinnati, but that is not a lock right now. We'll continue to deliver the latest on this No. 2 Fantasy QB when we get it.
News: The war of words in Carson Palmer's drama with the Bengals raged on Monday when team owner Paul Brown insisted to the Cincinnati Enquirer that he still has zero plans to trade his disgruntled quarterback. "I haven't talked to any other teams about him. I have no plans to trade him. I don't see any opportunity to get what I consider to be value," Brown said. "I've seen any number of players who at one point did not want to re-enlist (and then they) come back and are quite happy about it. ... It doesn't make sense to look to trade. It only makes sense to wait and hope Carson comes around."
Analysis: This came on the same day where Bengals coach Marvin Lewis was resigned to playing without Palmer in 2011, so perhaps Lewis believes that Brown will not trade his passer and that Palmer will retire. That's a potential scenario, as is the Bengals throwing up their collective hands and trading him, as is Palmer throwing up his hands and sticking with the team. Frankly, Palmer's Fantasy value would get a boost if he leaves town, but that doesn't seem likely for the moment. We'll continue to deliver the latest on this No. 2 Fantasy QB when we get it.
News: Marvin Lewis is telling people in league circles that QB Carson Palmer will not be back with the team in 2011. Sports Illustrated is reporting that Lewis is of the belief that Palmer will either be traded or follow through with his threat to retire. The Bengals are reportedly studying their options at quarterback in the draft. Palmer previously requested a trade, and team owner Mike Brown denied the request. "Marvin knows how stubborn Carson is, and he thinks no matter what happens, the guy won't change his mind," a club executive told SI.
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would definitely be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. If he lands in Arizona (Larry Fitzgerald), San Francisco (Michael Crabtree, Vernon Davis) or Minnesota (Sidney Rice), he'll have some big upside and become an attractive No. 2 Fantasy QB worth drafting in Rounds 10 or 11 in every format. We'll keep you posted on this.
News:Carson Palmer is set to retire, a decision the Bengals are at peace with, CBS Sports Senior NFL Writer Clark Judge reported Monday. Earlier this offseason Palmer requested a trade out of Cincinnati, which team owner Mike Brown denied. Palmer then said he'd rather retire than play for the Bengals, and it looks as if he is planning to follow through on that. One NFL head coach told Judge he didn't expect Palmer to play in Cincinnati again due to "a number of factors that built up over time," and another source believes Palmer is not bluffing. "There's a peace about him with this decision," said another person close to Palmer. "I think what you're seeing and hearing from Carson is a sign of the level of frustration he has with the Bengals."
Analysis: Judge adds that the Bengals have a strong track record of not trading players they say they won't trade, with Chad Ochocinco a recent example. Thus, unless the Bengals have a change of heart and dangle their franchise quarterback, he's not going to play. Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. He's got the makings of a No. 2 Fantasy QB unless he wound up in a good situation like in Arizona or Minnesota. We'll keep you posted on this. Check out Judge's full report here.
News: A Bengals official to team play-by-play announcer Brad Johansen: "We will not trade Carson Palmer. Our stance has not changed. He will either choose to come back here or he will retire." On Tuesday, Palmer told a confidant he "will never set foot in Paul Brown Stadium again," according to a report from a local TV station in Cincinnati.
Analysis: The Bengals and Palmer are headed toward a long offseason since it appears as if the Bengals have no intentions to just give Palmer away. He will likely continue to demand his way out of Cincinnati, but the Bengals are going to try to get the most value possible for him if they trade him at all. Plenty of teams will look for his services if he's released, especially a team like Arizona or Minnesota, so continue to monitor what develops. This saga with Palmer is far from over, but we don't expect the Bengals to just give up on him. Either way, wherever Palmer plays in 2011 he will likely remain a No. 2 Fantasy QB in the majority of leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer told a confidant he "will never set foot in Paul Brown Stadium again," according to a report from a local TV station in Cincinnati. With SI.com's Peter King citing a Bengals source saying the Bengals would listen to trade offers, chances are increasing that Palmer could leave Cincinnati prior to 2011.
Analysis: Palmer requested a trade in late January and was flatly denied by team owner Mike Brown. He also has threatened to retire. He will likely continue to demand his way out of Cincinnati, but the Bengals are going to try to get the most value possible for him if they trade him at all. Plenty of teams will look for his services if he's released, especially a team like Arizona or Minnesota, so continue to monitor what develops. This saga with Palmer is far from over, but we don't expect the Bengals to just give up on him. Either way, wherever Palmer plays in 2011 he will likely remain a No. 2 Fantasy QB in the majority of leagues.
News: The Bengals official team website reports Friday that coach Marvin Lewis said at the NFL Combine that the Bengals are pursuing the offseason like they won t have QB Carson Palmer back in 2011. Palmer requested a trade in late January and was flatly denied by team owner Mike Brown. He also has threatened to retire.
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy QB if he returns to the Bengals, but his value could change if he goes to a new team. This saga with Palmer is far from over, but we don't expect the Bengals to just give up on him. Plenty of teams will look for his services if he's released, especially a team like Arizona or Minnesota, so continue to monitor what develops.
News: The Bengals are "kicking the tires on all kinds of options" after finally taking Carson Palmer's threat to retire if not traded seriously. The official team website reports that the Bengals will do their due diligence on the rookie quarterbacks at the NFL combine, but they will also aim to have Palmer return happy because they feel like he gives the team "their best chance to win." Palmer requested a trade in late January and was flatly denied by team owner Mike Brown.
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. He's got the makings of a No. 2 Fantasy QB unless he wound up in a good situation like in Arizona or Minnesota. We'll keep you posted on this but we'd be shocked if Palmer did indeed retire.
News: The Bengals official team website reports that WR Jerome Simpson would like QB Carson Palmer to return in 2011. Palmer has requested a trade out of Cincinnati and has also threatened to retire if he's not moved, but Simpson hopes he returns. "He's my quarterback. He's my bro. I'll support him and I hope he's our quarterback this year," said Simpson, who still plans to go to California at some point and throw with Palmer. "Everyone wants to throw with Carson. He's one of the elite quarterbacks and I'm going to take advantage of that."
Analysis: It's important for Simpson to have Palmer back in 2011 since the Bengals are expected to part ways with Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco. Simpson would be Palmer's No. 1 target, and Palmer also has a new offensive coordinator with Jay Gruden. Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He remains a No. 2 Fantasy QB if he returns to the Bengals, but his value could change if he goes to a new team.
News:Carson Palmer is moving out of Cincinnati -- at least as a homeowner. WCPO-TV is reporting that Palmer is in the process of putting his home in Cincinnati up for sale. The news follows up a trade request Palmer made (and the Bengals denied). Palmer has said he will retire if the team doesn't trade him. According to a real estate agent with knowledge of the sale, Palmer "is not coming back." This news breaks just days after new offensive coordinator Jay Gruden said he would not contact Palmer until Marvin Lewis and team president Mike Brown "take care of those things in-house first."
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. He finished his season strong and there would be interest in him this offseason if he shakes free from the Bengals. He's got the makings of a No. 2 Fantasy QB unless he wound up in a good situation like in Arizona or Minnesota. We'll keep you posted on this but we'd be shocked if Palmer did indeed retire.
News: Jay Gruden hasn't talked to Carson Palmer in the four days since he became the Bengals' next offensive coordinator. He's not sure when that awkward coach-to-quarterback conversation is going to happen. Gruden was in town on Monday, getting a start on teaching his philosophy to the rest of the coaching staff before getting started with the players as the team will install a new offense from the ground up. Gruden hasn't tried to contact Palmer, the franchise quarterback who wants out because of Cincinnati's futility. He said he is letting the front office handle that situation.
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. Now he'll have to learn Gruden's playbook, a version of the West Coast offense, like the rest of his team. There could be some growing pains there as Palmer hasn't had to learn a new NFL offense since his rookie year -- that's if the Bengals stay true to their word and keep the gunslinger in town and not trade him away. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB headed into next season.
News: Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said the majority of the old offense will be scrapped under new coordinator Jay Gruden and they will run a version of the West Coast offense. "It will be of (the West Coast) nomenclature," Marvin Lewis said. "It will allow our quarterback to play freer and have fun again." We assume that QB is still Carson Palmer, who has threatened to retire if the Bengals don't trade him although owner Mike Brown said the team will not trade him. "This is professional sports and athletics," Lewis said. "Sometimes things happen that aren’t necessarily the way they end up being. I think it would be very easy for him (Palmer) to move forward (with the Bengals) from our standpoint."
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. In a new offense that depends on short routes and timing, Palmer could end up thriving like QBs in similar systems have in recent years -- with increased accuracy. It also points to the departure of troubled WRs Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco (Johnson). For now, if he returns for the 2011 season, consider Palmer to be a No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into next year. Select him as such on Draft Day.
News: Bengals owner Mike Brown said matter-of-factly that the team will not trade QB Carson Palmer. Brown said on Monday that Palmer met with him a little more than a week ago and asked to be traded. Brown told Palmer that he wouldn't consider it because the quarterback is central to the team's plans. He plans to talk to Palmer again to try to smooth over their differences. When asked by CBSSports.com about the trade talk concerning Palmer, head coach Marvin Lewis pushed away the recorder and note pad in Mobile, Ala., at the Senior Bowl and said: "I'm not here to talk about Carson." Palmer's agent issued a statement that read in part: "Because of the lack of success that Carson and the Bengals have experienced together, Carson strongly feels that a separation between him and the Bengals would be in the best interest of both parties."
Analysis: Palmer ended 2010 with 3,970 yards on 362 of 586 passing (61.8 comp. pct.) with 26 touchdowns, 20 interceptions, 50 rush yards and three fumbles lost. While it's good to see that Palmer will stay with the Bengals (for now), it's a foregone conclusion that the team will be more run-oriented in 2011. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB headed into next season.
News: Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer is demanding to be traded and is threatening retirement if he does not get his wish, reports ESPN.com on Sunday. Palmer, once the NFL's and Cincinnati's top overall draft pick in 2003, did not comment on Sunday. Cincinnati went 4-10 in 2010.
Analysis: There are corresponding reports saying that Palmer's threat to retire is legitimate. Also, the Seahawks and coach Pete Carroll -- Palmer's coach at USC in college -- are looking for a quarterback. Palmer played 14 games with Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens and his numbers were meandering. He played his last two games without them and he completed well over 70 percent of his passes with five touchdowns and two interceptions against the Chargers and Ravens. We really don't know how to spin that, but he can clearly still get it done in the right situation. We don't know where that will be yet, however, and he may now retire. Pay attention to the situation before you draft him next season.
News: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said Tuesday that he expects QB Carson Palmer to remain with the team. Lewis, who himself signed a new two-year deal to remain the head coach, said he intends to give Palmer the surrounding talent he needs to be successful. “It’s important to recapture the spirit of our football team,” Lewis said during a press conference. “I told [Palmer] privately that it’s important to me that I will help him be the player that I know he is and I believe in him and he’s important to me."
Analysis: Palmer played 14 games with Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens and his numbers were meandering. He played his last two games without them and he completed well over 70 percent of his passes with five touchdowns and two interceptions against the Chargers and Ravens. While it's good to see that Palmer will stay with the Bengals, it's a foregone conclusion that the team will be more run-oriented in 2011. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB headed into next season.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 32 passes in Week 17 at Baltimore, reaching 30-plus completions for the fourth time during the season. He threw for 305 yards to reach the 300-yard mark also for the fourth time all year. He turned the ball over three times in the game (two interceptions, one fumble lost) and threw an 11-yard touchdown pass to give him a total of 26 for the season.
Analysis: Palmer played the final two games of the season without his top two receivers in Terrell Owens and Chad Ochocinco due to injuries and he completed well over 70 percent of his passes in those games, including five touchdown passes and nearly 600 yards. The Bengals are a team in flux going into the offseason, so much of Palmer's Fantasy appeal will have to do with what the team does in terms of coaching and player personnel, but Palmer will likely be a No. 2 QB going into 2011-12. Monitor his team's offseason closely.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer seemed to be having fun in Week 16 with his young receivers. With no Terrell Owens or Chad Ochocinco, Palmer was 8 of 8 for 137 yards and two touchdowns at the half with the 158.3 rating. His first incompletion came on his 11th pass, which was almost intercepted, but was knocked out of TE Jermaine Gresham's hands by Eric Weddle. Both players were shaken up on the play, but go off the field under their own power. Palmer aired it out with a seven point lead in the fourth quarter, but he would just overthrow WR Andre Caldwell. Two plays later he would hit Jerome Simpson for a 59-yard touchdown bomb to get to go up by 14 points on the Chargers. Palmer caught the Chargers napping on defense as they broke their huddle late and Simpson got a step on his defender. Palmer finished the day completing 16 of 21 for 269 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Palmer continues to play well against the Chargers as he now has nine touchdowns and one interception in his three career games against them. He got it done with a young receiving corps and in windy conditions. After Sunday's performance, Palmer now has 25 touchdowns and 18 interceptions on the year for the Bengals. Despite his team being out of the playoffs, Palmer definitely seemed to be having fun on Sunday. The Bengals face the Ravens in Week 17, which will make Palmer a low-end QB option in Fantasy leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has played his Week 16, the San Diego Chargers twice in his career. In those games Palmer has thrown for 754 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. He's coming off a game where he didn't throw a touchdown pass (the second time that's happened this year), but does have a 97.2 passer rating in his past two home games. The game on Sunday is at home, which is should give the veteran a bit more confidence. Palmer needs one more touchdown to join Ken Anderson and Boomer Esiason to be the only players in club history to reach 150. It won't be an easy task against the Chargers' top-rated pass defense. San Diego has been allowing just 170.4 passing yards and 10.4 Fantasy points to opposing team's quarterbacks per outing.
Analysis: With Terrell Owens on the shelf and Chad Ochocinco banged up, it won't be easy for Palmer to produce for Fantasy owners in Week 16. Palmer has had five interceptions returned for touchdowns this year, which is not reassuring either. Palmer has 3,396 passing yards, 21 touchdowns and 18 interceptions through the first 14 games. Not exactly what Fantasy owners were hoping from him. Between his disappointing season and an extremely tough matchup in Week 16, we don't recommend starting Palmer this week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer helped Cincinnati end a 10-game losing streak in Week 15 against the Browns. Palmer completed just 14 passes in the 19-17 victory and failed to throw a touchdown pass for just the second time this season. He did spread the ball around efficiently, completing a pass to eight different receivers in the contest. Palmer's longest completion of the game went for 53 yards on a wide receiver-screen pass to Andre Caldwell in the fourth quarter. He finished 14 for 23 for 209 yards and wound up with a quarterback rating of 90.7.
Analysis: Palmer played OK against the Browns, but wasn't asked to do a whole lot as the Bengals were able to run at will on the Cleveland's defense. While he didn't turn the ball over on Sunday, Palmer was again a bit disappointing from a Fantasy standpoint as he did not throw a touchdown pass. He also will be without his best WR for the remainder of the season, as the Terrell Owens tore the meniscus in his left knee and is done for the season. This means Chad Ochocinco will step into the No. 1 WR role and Jordan Shipley and Andre Caldwell will likely see a larger role in the passing game. Palmer and the Bengals will now have to face the Chargers in Week 16. San Diego has been very good at defending the pass this season, so consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB next Sunday.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who threw for just 178 yards and three interceptions last week against the Steelers, will look to get back on track in Week 15 against the Browns. Palmer threw for 371 yards and a pair of scores in the team's first meeting this season but was on the losing end of the 23-20 score. The Browns enter Sunday's matchup ranked 16th in pass defense, allowing 224 yards per game. Cleveland has surrendered 18 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 19.5 Fantasy points on the season.
Analysis: Palmer has been a bit disappointing this season and has thrown multiple interceptions in four of his last five contests. He also has thrown a league leading five pick-six interceptions and has only thrown more than two touchdowns in a game once this season. While Palmer has proved he can deliver a big-time performances, his inconsistent play makes him an extremely risky Fantasy option at this point in the season. Consider him a high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB heading against the Browns.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 20 of 32 passes for 178 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions, two of which were returned for scores by the Pittsburgh defense in a Week 14 loss.
Analysis: Palmer now has three touchdowns and five interceptions in his last three games and has thrown multiple picks in four of his last five contests. In leagues that punish interceptions heavily, Palmer has been a disaster over the last month or so, and he just isn't making great decisions in trying to bring his team back in games. In Week 15, Palmer might be able to redeem himself a little bit against the average Browns defense, but only a very brave owner would trust him at this critical point in the season. He did throw for 371 yards and two touchdowns earlier this season against Cleveland, though.
News: The Bengals visit Pittsburgh in Week 14, and Fantasy owners should avoid Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer for this matchup if they can. In his last five games against the Steelers, Palmer has only two 200-yard passing games, and one of those was a 205-yard effort. In the last three meetings, Palmer has thrown a total of just two touchdowns, although he didn't throw a pick in any of those games.
Analysis: Pittsburgh is much tougher against the run than the pass, and Palmer will probably be chucking the ball around quite a bit on Sunday, but that's not always a good thing, especially in leagues that only reward four points for a passing score and punish interceptions with minus two. Palmer has thrown multiple interceptions in three of his last four games and could well continue that trend on Sunday if Troy Polamalu has anything to do with it. Only use Palmer in two-QB leagues as a low-end No. 2 option for Week 14 if you must.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had his work cut out in Week 13, coming off a dreadful game against the Jets and set to face one of the league's best pass defenses, but he bounced back in a 34-30 loss to New Orleans. Palmer completed 23 of 33 passes for 249 yards, and he connected with WR Terrell Owens on a five-yard touchdown pass. He also ended a streak of five games in which he threw at least one interception.
Analysis: This was Palmer's best performance in weeks, and going up against a stellar Saints secondary, it was surprising to see him pick this week to rebound. This is an encouraging sign, and he gets a good matchup in Week 14 against the Steelers, but Fantasy owners should look for more consistent production before trusting him as a No. 1 QB.
News: Coming off a three-game stretch in which he has thrown seven interceptions, Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a tough Saints defense in Week 13. Because they have limited opposing quarterbacks to a total of seven touchdown passes and fewer than 200 passing yards per game, the Saints rank as one of the league's best pass defenses. However, they have picked off only seven passes through 11 games, which ties them for the fourth-lowest total in the league. Palmer is tied for third among all quarterbacks for most interceptions this season with 15.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not count on Palmer to put up big numbers in Week 13, as only three quarterbacks have managed 230 passing yards or more against the Saints this season. At least he has a shot a ending his interception streak, so he could improve his Fantasy point total on the margins. Still, he rates as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy QB for this matchup.
News: For the third straight game, Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw multiple interceptions on Thursday night against the Jets in the Week 12 matchup. He threw picks to DBs Jim Leonhard and Antonio Cromartie, both while the intended WR was in double coverage. Palmer completed 17 of 38 pass attempts for a season-low 135 yards and the two INTs. "We're just not winning games," Palmer said, "and that's as frustrating as it gets in this league."He did throw a touchdown in the second quarter to slot WR Jordan Shipley on a 5-yard hitch in front of DB Drew Coleman.
Analysis: Palmer began the game targeting WR Chad Ochocinco on several occasions with Cromartie on him, the two connected four times for 41 yards in the first half. However in the final two quarters, the Jets jumped out to a lead and the pressure increased against Palmer, who was blitzed more times than not. Palmer was sacked in the end zone for a safety in the fourth when DL Trevor Pryce wrapped him up in the end zone. Palmer threw the ball to a vacant area and received the intentional grounding call. He and the sputtering Bengals offense -- who managed just 34 yards in the second half on Thursday -- will look to bounce back in Week 12 against New Orleans. The Saints pass defense is a top-five NFL unit, so Palmer again has his work cut out for him. Consider him to be a No. 2 fantasy QB heading into that matchup.
News: NFL network is reporting that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will start in the Week 12 game against the Jets, despite a foot injury. He was listed as probable heading into the matchup. The Bengals season has been a disaster, but playing the Jets team who eliminated them in 2009 still matters. "The last two games last year were games that kind of stuck with you,” Palmer said. “It's a game that's been marked on our calendars all offseason.” Palmer threw for just 146 yards, one touchdown and one interception when the two teams met in the 2009 playoffs.
Analysis: Palmer has two-plus touchdown passes in seven straight games and should be able to get a chance to extend that streak on Turkey Day. While his 18 touchdown strikes this season put him just three away from matching his 2009 mark, he has already thrown 13 interceptions. The Jets have allowed five opposing QBs to throw for multiple TDs through ten games. Continue to monitor his status just to be safe but with Palmer's inconsistent play in recent weeks, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 12.
News: Bengals Carson Palmer (foot, shoulder) returned to practice Wednesday and is listed as probable for Thursday's Turkey Day game against the Jets. The Bengals season has been a disaster, but playing the Jets team who eliminated them in 2009 still matters. "The last two games last year were games that kind of stuck with you,” Palmer said. “It's a game that's been marked on our calendars all offseason.” Palmer threw for just 146 yards, one touchdown and one interception when the two teams met in the 2009 playoffs.
Analysis: Palmer has two-plus touchdown passes in seven straight games and should be able to get a chance to extend that streak on Turkey Day. While his 18 touchdown strikes this season put him just three away from matching his 2009 mark, he has already thrown 13 interceptions. The Jets have allowed five opposing QBs to throw for multiple TDs through ten games. Continue to monitor his status just to be safe but with Palmer's inconsistent play in recent weeks, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 12.
News: According to the Bengals website, QB Carson Palmer (foot) says he expects to play on Thursday against the Jets. Palmer missed practice on Monday and Tuesday with the injury.
Analysis: Palmer has two-plus touchdown passes in seven straight games and should be able to get a chance to extend that streak on Turkey Day. While his 18 touchdown strikes this season put him just three away from matching his 2009 mark, he has already thrown 13 interceptions. Continue to monitor his status just to be safe but with Palmer's inconsistent play in recent weeks, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 12.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (foot) did not participate in practice on Monday as he team prepared for Week 12 against the Jets. He completed 19 of 34 passes for 230 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's loss to the Bills.
Analysis: Palmer has two-plus touchdown passes in seven straight games and likely just took Monday off to rest up for the Thanksgiving game against the Jets. While his 18 touchdown strikes this season put him just three away from matching his 2009 mark, he has already thrown 13 interceptions. Continue to monitor his status just to be safe but with Palmer's inconsistent play in recent weeks, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 12.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a tale of two halves in Week 11 against the Bills. Palmer led Cincinnati to four scoring drives in the first half as the Bengals jumped out to a 31-14 lead. Sadly, he couldn't lead them on any scoring drives in the second half as Buffalo rallied for a 49-31 win. Palmer went 10 of 13 for 132 yards and two scores in the first half. He then threw two second half interceptions and ended the game on the bench as brother Jordan Palmer finished out the loss. Palmer completed 19 of 34 passes for 230 yards. He had a 2-yard touchdown pass to Chad Ochocinco in the first quarter and a 4-yard score to Terrell Owens in the second quarter. Palmer also had a 31-yard touchdown pass to Owens nullified in the third quarter because of a holding penalty.
Analysis: The Bengals might have lost Week 11, but at least Palmer kept a personal streak alive. He now has two-plus touchdown passes in seven straight games. He also kept a second streak alive -- one not as glamorous. He now has an interception in four straight games and seven total. For all the good that Palmer is doing the interceptions are killing him. He threw one of them in Week 11 in the end zone in a key spot late in the game. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB heading into Week 12 against the Jets.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (right shoulder) is active and starting Week 11 against Buffalo. Palmer has practiced in full all week and will have his full array of receivers to throw to as Chad Ochocinco is also active.
Analysis: Palmer has thrown 16 touchdown passes in 2010, but it's a bit troubling to see him with 11 interceptions. He has three games with two or more picks and is only two interceptions shy of tying his 2009 total. Palmer has had only a few outstanding games in 2010, which is kind of disappointing with all the offensive weapons he has at his disposal. All that said, continue starting him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 11.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer got some good news Friday when WR Chad Ochocinco (shoulder) returned to a full practice and was then listed as probable for Week 11 against the Bills. Palmer (shoulder) is also listed as probable after practicing in full Thursday and Friday. Palmer heads into Week 11 against the Bills looking for a seventh straight game with two or more touchdown passes. Quarterbacks are averaging 19.1 Fantasy points per week against Buffalo, which is tied for seventh highest in the NFL. Six QBs -- Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Mark Sanchez, David Garrard, Joe Flacco and Jay Cutler -- have tossed two or more touchdowns against Buffalo this season.
Analysis: Having Ochocinco available is always good news for Palmer. The veteran QB has 16 touchdown passes in 2010, but it's a bit troubling to see him with 11 interceptions. He has three games with two or more picks and is only two interceptions shy of tying his 2009 total. Palmer has had only a few outstanding games in 2010, which is kind of disappointing with all the offensive weapons he has at his disposal. Palmer is still worth a look as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 11 based on the favorable matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer heads into Week 11 against the Bills looking for a seventh straight game with two or more touchdown passes. Palmer (shoulder) is on track to play Sunday after returning to full practice reps Thursday. Although, he might be down one of his top receivers, Chad Ochocinco, who is battling a shoulder injury. Quarterbacks are averaging 19.1 Fantasy points per week against Buffalo, which is tied for seventh highest in the NFL. Six QBs -- Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Mark Sanchez, David Garrard, Joe Flacco and Jay Cutler -- have tossed two or more touchdowns against Buffalo this season.
Analysis: Palmer has 16 touchdown passes, but it's definitely alarming to see him have 11 interceptions. He has three games with two or more picks. Palmer has had only a few outstanding games in 2010, which is kind of disappointing with all the offensive weapons he has at his disposal. Even if Ochocinco sits out Week 11, Palmer is still worth a look as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB based on the favorable matchup.
News: The Bengals have had plenty of problems on offense this season, one of the biggest is converting on third down --they rank 22nd in efficiency. "The chemistry's absolutely been off,” QB Carson Palmer said. “When you're losing and not making your fair share of (big) plays, it gets exploited, and it comes uncovered. Palmer was limited in practice Wednesday due to a shoulder issue as the Bengals prepare to host Buffalo in Week 11.
Analysis: Palmer has played fairly well this season, but always seems to make the crucial mistake on big plays. He has 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions on the year, so Fantasy value is still there, although it is not as high as we originally thought with the amount of weapons Palmer has on the outside. He will try to change things against Buffalo, who have only two interceptions on the season. Starting Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB for that matchup would not be out of line.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 31 of 42 passes for 292 and a pair of touchdowns in a Week 10 loss to the Colts, but what could have been a solid day was ruined by a hat trick of interceptions. One of the picks was returned for a touchdown by Kelvin Hayden.
Analysis: Palmer has 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions on the season, and he just seems to have a few moments of madness on occasion that ruin a good performance like he did on Sunday. To be fair, one of his interceptions happened when T.O. gave up on a route, but the other two were awful decisions by Palmer. In Week 11, Cincinnati will host Buffalo, who have only two interceptions on the season, so if Palmer can't get things going in that game he may need more than just a shoulder injection. Start Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB for that matchup.
News: As expected, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (shoulder) was not listed among the inactives for Week 10 at Indianapolis after missing some practice earlier in the week. ESPN reports that Palmer needed a pain-relieving injection in his shoulder.
Analysis: Palmer has an 11-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last five games, and while he can have his rough patches at times, the veteran has forged a great relationship with WR Terrell Owens, who now leads all Fantasy receivers. This matchup against the Colts isn't a great one for QBs though, as Indy is easy to run against, so start Palmer as just a No. 2 option for Week 10.
News: Despite Bengals QB Carson Palmer (shoulder) missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday, coach Marvin Lewis confirmed Friday that he plans to start Palmer on Sunday against Indianapolis in the Week 10 game. On Thursday, Palmer admitted that he was resting the shoulder that he injured in the Monday night loss to the Steelers. "I'm definitely going to go, but (I'm) just getting a couple days of rest on it," Palmer said. He practiced Friday on a limited basis and is listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Palmer has an 11-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last five games, and while he can have his rough patches at times, the veteran has forged a great relationship with WR Terrell Owens, who now leads all Fantasy receivers. This matchup against the Colts isn't a great one for QBs though, as Indy is easy to run against, so start Palmer as just a No. 2 option for Week 10.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer sat out practice Thursday for a second straight day as he continues to deal with a right shoulder injury. Palmer should be able to take the field on Friday, however, as Cincinnati prepares for its Week 10 game at Indianapolis. He expects to play against the Colts. "I'm definitely going to go, but (I'm) just getting a couple days of rest on it," Palmer said.
Analysis: Palmer has an 11-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last five games, and while he can have his rough patches at times, the veteran has forged a great relationship with WR Terrell Owens, who now leads all Fantasy receivers. This matchup against the Colts isn't a great one for QBs though, as Indy is easy to run against, so start Palmer as just a No. 2 option for Week 10. He should be fine to play on Sunday.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer sat out practice Wednesday with a shoulder injury. Cincinnati visits Indianapolis in Week 10.
Analysis: Palmer has an 11-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his last five games, and while he can have his rough patches at times, the veteran has forged a great relationship with WR Terrell Owens, who now leads all Fantasy receivers. This matchup against the Colts isn't a great one though, as Indy is easy to run against, so start Palmer as just a No. 2 option for Week 10. He should be fine to play on Sunday.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was able to make some plays against the Steelers in Week 9 but he could not pull out the win despite a valiant performance. With his team down by six and less than a minute left in the game, he threw a pass to WR Jordan Shipley on fourth down but the receiver was dislodged from the ball by two Pittsburgh defenders. Palmer did throw two touchdown strikes before that, both going to WR Terrell Owens, and finished the game completing 22 of 36 passes for 248 yards in the 27-21 loss. He was also picked off by LB Lawrence Timmons but has thrown at least two touchdown passes in each of his last five games. "I think Carson played a great game under a lot of heat," said Owens. "He put the ball in there in tight situations. You look at the last four or five games we've played, it's been a play here or there that's made the difference."
Analysis: Palmer had some crisp passes in Week 9 and was able to pick apart the Steelers defense on a night in which the Bengals only ran for 54 yards. His 27-yard touchdown pass to Owens in the fourth quarter was especially nice as he got rid of the ball at the absolute last moment and put the ball where only his receiver could catch it. He and Owens appear to be developing a nice rapport as they have connected on seven touchdown strikes over the last five games. Palmer has an 11-to-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio over that span and has shown that he can be an effective passer when given enough time in the pocket. He should be considered a viable option in most leagues heading into Week 10 against the Colts and their seventh ranked pass defense.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer did not have his finest performance a week ago but will look to make up for it in Week 9 against a team he has had success against in the past -- the Steelers. In 10 career appearances against the division foe, the 30-year-old has averaged over 197 passing yards per game with a 2-to-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Pittsburgh has the 25th ranked passing defense through their first seven games and have allowed an average of 11.7 Fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks.
Analysis: Palmer had a monster game a couple of weeks ago but was only able to throw for 156 yards in his last game. The Steelers enter Week 9 as one of the better defenses in the league but they have not been as stellar against the pass. Palmer has helped lead Cincinnati to the sixth best passing attack in the NFL and should be able to move the ball with all of the weapons at his disposal. Palmer's success also adds to his appeal for Sunday's matchup but his has been too inconsistent to trust on a regular basis. Consider the former Trojan as a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 9.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer, coming off a monster Week 7 outing, couldn't even get half of the 412 yards he put up in that game as the Bengals fell to the Dolphins in Week 8. Palmer completed 17 of 38 passes for 156 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. He was 8 of 22 for 52 yards and the pick in the second half.
Analysis: The fans in Cincinnati showed their displeasure with Palmer's awful second half on Sunday by booing him frequently, and his Fantasy owners would liked to have done that to him in person as well. Palmer just can't seem to put two good games in a row together this season, and he is a big reason the Bengals are 2-5. In Week 9, Palmer will have a tough test against the Steelers and will likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for that matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (hip) was not listed among the inactives Sunday for Cincinnati's Week 8 game vs. Miami. Palmer was listed as probable. Miami ranks in the middle of the pack against the pass this season, but they have allowed back-to-back 300-yard passing games.
Analysis: Palmer went nuts in Week 7, throwing for 412 yards and three touchdowns, and he has a good chance to put up some solid numbers on Sunday against a Miami unit that has allowed an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing QBs and has produced just four interceptions on the year. Start Palmer as a solid No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 8 .
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer practiced through his hip injury in full on Friday and will play Sunday against the Dolphins. He's listed as probable. Miami ranks in the middle of the pack against the pass this season, but they have allowed back-to-back 300-yard passing games
Analysis: Palmer went nuts in Week 7, throwing for 412 yards and three touchdowns, and he has a good chance to put up some solid numbers on Sunday against a Miami unit that has allowed an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing QBs and has produced just four interceptions on the year. Start Palmer as a solid No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 8 as long as he's healthy enough to play on Sunday.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer missed practice Thursday with a hip problem. However, coach Marvin Lewis said he expects Palmer to play Sunday. Cincinnati hosts the Dolphins in Week 8, and Miami ranks in the middle of the pack against the pass this season, but they have allowed back-to-back 300-yard passing games
Analysis: Palmer went nuts in Week 7, throwing for 412 yards and three touchdowns, and he has a good chance to put up some solid numbers on Sunday against a Miami unit that has allowed an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing QBs and has produced just four interceptions on the year. Start Palmer as a solid No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 8 as long as he's healthy enough to play on Sunday.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer comes into Cincinnati's Week 8 game against Miami with seven touchdowns and three interceptions in three October contests. The Dolphins rank in the middle of the pack against the pass this season, but they have allowed back-to-back 300-yard passing games.
Analysis: Palmer went nuts in Week 7, throwing for 412 yards and three touchdowns, and he has a good chance to put up some solid numbers on Sunday against a Miami unit that has allowed an average of 18.4 Fantasy points to opposing QBs and has produced just four interceptions on the year. Start Palmer as a solid No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 8.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who threw three interceptions last week and entered the game with a 78.3 quarterback rating, put together one of the best games of his career in a comeback effort Week 7 at Atlanta. Though he started out 11 for 20 for 95 yards in the first half, he went 25 for 30 for 317 yards in the second half, finishing 36 for 52 for 412 yards. He also threw three touchdown passes -- all in the second half. The first was a 19-yarder to Terrell Owens, the second a 64-yarder on a short toss to Jordan Shipley, and the third an 8-yarder to Chad Ochocinco in the back corner of the end zone. The Bengals wound up losing the game, but they did take the lead briefly in the third quarter after trailing 24-7 at the half.
Analysis: Most of Palmer's success came in a huge third quarter that got the Bengals back in the game. His relied on his receivers to make big plays -- as Shipley's 64-yard catch-and-run would indicate -- but he avoided mistakes and wasn't afraid to throw the ball deep. He may not have the arm strength he did when he was younger, but he's still capable of putting up big Fantasy numbers, especially with the targets he has around him. Shoot, the 412 passing yards were the second-most of his career. Palmer should have another solid performance in Week 8 against a Dolphins defense that just gave up 302 yards to Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger, so keep him active as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer may have struggled in his last game, throwing three interceptions against the Buccaneers in Week 5, but he has a chance to throw the ball effectively against a banged-up Atlanta secondary on the road in Week 7. The Falcons defense struggled mightily last weekend, yielding a season-high 474 yards and allowing three touchdowns of more than 30 yards. They allowed Eagles backup QB Kevin Kolb to have the best game of his career, throwing for 326 yards and three touchdowns, and now rank 25th against the pass, giving up 239.5 yards per game. The Falcons will also likely be without top cornerback Dunta Robinson, who suffered a concussion in Week 6.
Analysis: The Falcons still lead the NFL with 11 interceptions, which explains how opposing quarterbacks have scored only 14.3 points per game against them, 12th-lowest in the NFL. Palmer is no guarantee to have a big game this week, but his chances look better than in most weeks. He seems to have developed a good connection with WR Terrell Owens, who can still make any quarterback look good. If you don't have a clear-cut must-start at the quarterback position, you can get by with Palmer as a No. 1 option this week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 21 of 36 passes for 209 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 5 loss to the Buccaneers. Palmer ruined his day however with a hat trick of interceptions, including two with massive implications, as Cincinnati fell to 2-3 on the season. "We felt like we had the game in control, and those two plays sealed our fate in this one," Palmer said. "I'm the quarterback of this team. I need to find ways to win the football game."
Analysis: Palmer, who also rushed once for 3 yards, saw his first interception returned for a touchdown and his last one that came with just 25 seconds left in the game led to the game-winning field goal for Tampa Bay. Palmer now has three two-touchdown games and five interceptions this season as he continues to frustrate Fantasy owners. Sure, his receivers didn't help him out much at times on Sunday and he's without WR Jordan Shipley, but Palmer is still not playing well for the most part this season. In Week 6, the Bengals are off, so Palmer will have to live with his poor performance for a couple of weeks. In Week 7, things won't be easy for him and the Bengals when they travel to Atlanta.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who threw for 371 yards and a pair of touchdowns in a Week 4 loss to Cleveland, will try to stay hot in Week 5 against a Buccaneers pass defense that has given up five passing TDs in three games this season. Tampa does rank ninth in passing yards allowed, but you have to factor in that they've been run on a lot.
Analysis: Palmer has faced the Buccaneers once in his career, throwing for 261 yards and a touchdown against them in 2006. If Charlie Batch can throw for a hat trick of touchdowns against Tampa Bay, you have to think Palmer has a good chance to put up decent numbers in Week 5 as well. Consider him a low-end No. 1 or high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for this matchup with the Bucs, who rank 24th in average Fantasy points allowed to QBs this season.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had the big game we've been waiting for at Cleveland in Week 4, thanks in part to Terrell Owens. Palmer connected with Owens 10 times for 222 yards and a score including a bomb that Owens caught when cornerback Sheldon Brown fell down and jogged into the end zone. Palmer also shoveled a pass to Brian Leonard for a sneaky second touchdown late in the game. He finished with a season-best 371 yards on 25 of 36 passing with the two scores. Palmer also fumbled twice -- once on a handoff to Cedric Benson in the first quarter and again much later when he was sacked by Scott Fujita. Palmer has two 300-yard games through four weeks.
Analysis: Palmer could continue his solid ways in Week 5 when the Buccaneers come to Cincinnati. True, the Bucs are a Top-10 pass defense, but they've allowed five passing touchdowns in three games and could have a size disadvantage against the Bengals' towering receiving corps. Palmer is worth some consideration in the matchup if your QB situation is a mess or if you'll be missing Tom Brady because he's on a bye.
News: The Bengals' tepid offense is a hot topic in Cincinnati, and many are focused on Carson Palmer as the reason for the weak start. Sure, Palmer gunned for over 325 yards and two scores in Week 1 at New England, but since that game he's put up 362 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions while completing 35 of 72 passes. There's no urgency from Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis or Palmer, both of whom are preaching patience and everyone doing their jobs starting in Week 4 at Cleveland. "We as a unit just want to go out and score more points," Palmer said Wednesday. "I wouldn't say concern is the word. I'd say anticipation. We're all so excited just to get to game day now. You've got three long days of work, and we just want to go out and have another crack at it, have another opportunity."
Analysis: Palmer will face a Browns defense he scored thrice on in 2009, including two connections with Chad Ochocinco in the matchup at Cleveland. He totaled just 340 yards in the two games, however. In an early 2007 game at Cleveland, Palmer threw for 401 yards and six touchdowns, but that was before he had a major elbow injury. The Browns' pass defense ranks 12th in the league with 199.0 yards against on average but they've yielded two scores. Palmer should be a decent Fantasy option in Week 4, but whether or not he starts for your team depends on who else is available to you. Consider him a fair choice for the upcoming week.
News: QB Carson Palmer shook off two interceptions to throw a game-clinching touchdown pass to Cedric Benson midway through the fourth quarter in the Bengals' 20-7 victory over the Panthers in Week 3 to spoil Jimmy Clausen's first NFL start. Jonathan Stewart's lost fumble set up Palmer's 7-yard TD pass to Benson -- the running back's first career receiving TD -- to put the Bengals ahead 20-7. Palmer was 19 of 37 for 195 yards as Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens combined for eight catches for 76 yards. "I missed a couple of passes that were just a little off," said Palmer. "It's just something that we're going to keep working on."
Analysis: Palmer was picked off by Captain Munnerlyn on his first possession and by Charles Godfrey later in the first half. He could've had four more picks had Carolina defenders hung on in a rain-soaked game. The weather definitely seemed to bother Palmer as his passes were coming up short and fluttering as he couldn't get a good grip on the football. Still, all Fantasy owners will see is a second straight subpar performance from Palmer and start to worry. We say don't hit the panic button yet as Palmer just hasn't hit his stride. He heads into Week 4 with a favorable matchup against Cleveland, so consider starting Palmer in Fantasy. He threw for 340 yards and three touchdowns in two games against Cleveland last season.
News: QB Carson Palmer has been under criticism for his play in Week 2 against the Ravens, when the Bengals didn’t score a touchdown. Coach Marvin Lewis defended his quarterback, as he often does, saying that "very few times" were the offensive problems Palmer's fault. "Carson played a very good game," Lewis said. "His biggest challenge is putting us in the right spots against (the other team's) looks, which he does an excellent job of week-in and week-out. He moved from pressure and (threw to) the right guys." Palmer and the Bengals now gear up for Week 3 against the Panthers.
Analysis: Palmer leads the AFC in pass attempts with 85 and is second in completions with 50. However he is 10th in rating with a 73.2. He has just two touchdowns to one interception in two games, so he isn't putting up the big points like Fantasy owners would like. Although, Cincinnati has faced two very good opponents, so with a stretch of games against the Panthers, Browns and Bucs on the horizon, we could see Palmer play up to his Fantasy potential. The Panthers are tied for the most passing touchdowns (five) allowed in the NFL, so consider starting Palmer in Week 3.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer came into Week 2 against the Ravens having won eight times in 11 games against Baltimore. He left with a 9-3 record in 12 games against Baltimore. Palmer didn't have a pretty day, but he led Cincinnati on five scoring drives -- all field goals -- in a 15-10 win against the Ravens. Palmer completed 16 of 35 passes for 167 yards. He didn't turn the ball over.
Analysis: Just ask Mark Sanchez how difficult it is to pass against the Ravens. He didn't even break 100 yards in Week 1, so Palmer at least did that in Week 2. Palmer came into Week 2 averaging just 248 passing yards in his career against Baltimore, so it's not like he goes all out against one of the best defenses in the NFL. Palmer has just two touchdown passes through two weeks despite having Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens at his disposal. Hopefully, he improves as the season progresses. He might get a chance to step up in Week 3 against the Panthers since Carolina has allowed five passing touchdowns in its first two games. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 3.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has a good history against the Ravens, his Week 2 opponent. He is 8-3 in 11 games. He has completed 61.2 percent of his passes for 2,730 yards, 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions as well. Palmer threw for 495 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in two games against Baltimore last season. Still, he isn't taking the Ravens defense lightly. "There's not a lot of teams that have four or five guys that could go to any team and be probably the best player on their defense," he said.
Analysis: Palmer didn't really get going in Week 1 against the Patriots until the second half. He completed 22 of 31 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns after the break against New England. He said the no-huddle offense helped his approach. Perhaps we will see it a bit more on Sunday against Baltimore. Palmer seems to win a lot against Baltimore, but he is averaging just 248.2 passing yards and 1.27 touchdowns per game in his career against the Ravens. Look to Palmer as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 2.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a familiar foe in Week 2 -- AFC North rival Baltimore. Palmer has had a lot of success against the Ravens in his career, going 8-3 in 11 games. He has completed 61.2 percent of his passes for 2,730 yards, 14 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Palmer threw for 495 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in two games against Baltimore last season.
Analysis: Palmer didn't really get going in Week 1 against the Patriots until the second half. He completed 22 of 31 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns after the break against New England. He said the no-huddle offense helped his approach. Perhaps we will see it a bit more on Sunday against Baltimore. Palmer seems to win a lot against Baltimore, but he is averaging just 248.2 passing yards and 1.27 touchdowns per game in his career against the Ravens. Look to Palmer as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 2.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer got off to a slow start in his Week 1 game at New England on Sunday, but he finished with a solid performance. Palmer was 34 of 50 passing for 345 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. He also added four carries for 9 yards. His touchdowns went to Chad Ochocinco and Jermaine Gresham, and he connected with six different receivers. His interception, however, was returned for a touchdown by New England's Gary Guyton.
Analysis: Palmer should continue to play well all year with his receiving corps, which is highlighted by Ochocinco and Terrell Owens. We consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB in most matchups, but he has a difficult task in Week 2 against Baltimore. If you drafted Palmer as your starter then keep him active against the Ravens, but he might be worth sitting if you have another QB with a more favorable matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will make his 2010 debut at New England in Week 1, and he's out to prove he's still among the best quarterbacks in the NFL. WR Chad Ochocinco defended that notion on a conference call with members of the New England media Wednesday. "He is an elite quarterback," Ochocinco said. "I’ve never heard that perception ever." Ochocinco said Palmer will benefit with the new additions Cincinnati made on offense, adding WR Terrell Owens and rookie TE Jermaine Gresham. "He should be happy," Ochocinco said. "I’d be happy, too, with this many people to throw to." This week, Palmer faces an inexperienced secondary for the Patriots with Leigh Bodden (shoulder) now out for the year. That means second-year pro Darius Butler and rookie Devin McCourty are starting at cornerback in Week 1 against Ochocinco and Owens.
Analysis: Palmer should be able to use his veteran receivers to exploit the youth in New England's secondary, and this is a good week to count on Palmer. He might be throwing a lot if the Patriots offense can score as expected, and this game should be high-scoring. We consider Palmer a No. 1 Fantasy QB in this matchup, so consider a quality starting option in Week 1.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer led the Cincinnati offense for one series during Thursday's preseason finale against the Colts. He was efficient, completing 4 of 5 passes for 28 yards. Two of his completions went to Chad Ochocinco and his lone incompletion was on a deep pass to Terrell Owens. "I just can't wait until a week from Sunday," Palmer said about the start of the season. "You get teased playing just a series and you want to play more. I really like our chances to be a much more potent offense."
Analysis: Palmer had a very nice preseason, completing 71.2 percent of his passes (42 for 59). He really enjoyed building chemistry with newcomers Owens and rookie TE Jermaine Gresham. The Bengals did cut loose Antonio Bryant, but Palmer still has plenty of quality targets. Consider Palmer a nice low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into the season.
News: It's becoming evident that the Bengals can start making a claim of being good after QB Carson Palmer showed he's starting to gain chemistry with his revamped receivers. In only three series in Saturday's preseason game at Buffalo, Palmer went 9 for 11 for 95 yards and a pair of touchdowns, his first of the preseason. The starting offense finally finished after managing two touchdowns on 10 drives in its previous three games. Palmer distributed the ball to all three of his top receivers. He hit rookie TE Jermaine Gresham for a 9-yard touchdown, Chad Ochocinco for a 6-yard score and Terrell Owens three times for 35 yards. "We're getting better and better each week," said Palmer, who also unveiled a no-huddle attack. "I love what Jermaine is doing. I love what Terrell is doing, and Chad is playing like he believes he's the best receiver in the league."
Analysis: Palmer has the chance to play well this year with the additions the Bengals made on offense. We like Palmer as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer played well at times during Friday's preseason game against the Eagles, but he also had two interceptions. Palmer was 15 of 23 passing for 169 yards. He connected with Terrell Owens for a 43-yard pass, but Palmer also threw high in the direction of Chad Ochocinco twice. Ochocinco went high to pull one in, but Palmer's passes were a little off.
Analysis: Palmer will be fine once the regular season starts, and the deep throw to Owens was impressive. We like what Palmer has to offer this season as a Fantasy QB, and he should be considered a solid No. 2 option with the chance to be a starter in deep leagues. Plan on drafting Palmer with a mid-round pick in all formats.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer got plenty of time to throw the ball on Sunday against the Broncos. He went 12 of 15 for 105 yards in three series, leading the Bengals to one touchdown. Palmer admitted this first half was better than last week, but took umbrage on an inability to finish drives. The first two died inside the Denver 35. It's an extension of last year when the Bengals were 18th in red zone TD percentage. "It wasn't perfect, but it was better than last week and that's what we're looking to do -- improve every week," Palmer said. Palmer also had two rushes for 15 yards. All but two completions went to his new weapons TE Jermaine Gresham, WR Terrell Owens and WR Jordan Shipley.
Analysis: Palmer got more familiar with some of his new targets, which is good. With his new additions and steady colleague Chad Ochocinco, Palmer has a myriad of guys to spread the ball to. If Palmer can keep improving as the preseason moves on, his stock can only go up. As of right now, Fantasy owners should consider Palmer a low-end No.1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day and a pretty good value with a mid-round pick.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was under center for two drives during Sunday's preseason opener against the Cowboys. Both drives ended in punts, as Palmer finished 2 for 5 with 18 yards. But it was interesting that he targeted Chad Ochocinco only one time and new acquisition Terrell Owens four times. "We're a work in progress," Owens said. "We're getting there. It felt just like practice."
Analysis: Palmer has played with Ochocinco for years, so he doesn't have to build rapport with him. But he does have to get on the same page with T.O. since he is going to be a big target for him in 2010. If Antonio Bryant also gets over his knee issues and rookie tight end Jermaine Gresham is a fast learner, then Palmer is going to have a plethora of quality targets to throw at this season. Treat Palmer as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB on Draft Day.
News: As if Carson Palmer's receiving corps wasn't upgraded enough this offseason, the Bengals signed WR Terrell Owens just before the start of their training camp. The official team website reports that Owens has signed a one-year deal. He's expected to help out a receiving corps that has already been replenished by free agents Antonio Bryant and Matt Jones and rookies Jordan Shipley, Dezmon Briscoe and first-round pick TE Jermaine Gresham.
Analysis: While Owens is far from being a dominant NFL receiver like he was in years past, he should still be a reliable target for Carson Palmer to gun for. Owens had over 800 yards and five touchdowns last year in Buffalo, and that was with a bad group of quarterbacks. Palmer should make the most out of having him, not to mention everyone else he'll throw to including Chad Ochocinco. This should put Palmer over the top for 4,000 passing yards this season, making him more than just one of the top sleeper quarterbacks in Fantasy. In leagues with 14-plus teams, Palmer is absolutely a No. 1 QB worth a mid-round pick. In leagues with 12 or fewer teams, he's not quite a full-fledged starter but could be considered a platoonable option with another low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 passer.
News: Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco caught a 55-yard pass from Carson Palmer in stride, then raised both arms toward a camera filming the minicamp from the back of the end zone. Ochocinco took a break from dancing and dating to play some football Tuesday. He looked rusty during his first practice since the end of last season. Ochocinco hasn't attended the voluntary offseason practices because he's been on two reality shows, and Palmer noted last week that Ochocinco's absence made it tougher to run the offense in practice. The two of them shared a laugh in the locker room after practice on Tuesday, but Palmer said they still need work together. "When you think of the great pass-catchers and quarterbacks over time, even those guys had to get their bearings straight with each other," Palmer said. "It doesn't matter how many years you have, it takes time to get that rhythm back."
Analysis: It's good to have Ochocinco in camp working with Palmer, who should improve this year. We like Palmer as a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he has the potential to be a No. 1 option with the additions of Antonio Bryant, Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. Palmer is worth a mid- to late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer is frustrated that WR Chad Ochocinco has yet to take part in offseason workouts. "It would be great to have our No. 1 receiver here and working him and building it around him," Palmer said. "We've tried moving guys around. Maybe they're trying to find a new No. 1 receiver because it's hard to work your offense in without that guy around. We've moved Antonio (Bryant) around, he's been playing some spots. It's hard to tell and say because we're looking for a No. 2 and 3 receiver without a No. 1." Last year Ochocinco reported for at least four of the OTA sessions. This year, due to his myriad of TV appearances, he will not arrive in town until this weekend and have possibly one practice (Monday) before minicamp starts Tuesday. This marks the third straight season that Ochocinco has missed either all or most of the OTAs.
Analysis: Palmer and Ochocinco will likely get on the same page once the receiver shows up, and Ochocinco should help Palmer play well in 2010. We like Palmer as a solid No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he has the potential to be a No. 1 option with the additions of Antonio Bryant, Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. Palmer is worth a mid- to late-round pick in all leagues.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who has dealt with knee, elbow, ankle and thumb injuries in recent years, suffered from a lack of weapons in 2009 outside of No. 1 WR Chad Ochocinco. But this offseason, the Bengals have added free agents Antonio Bryant and Matt Jones and drafted Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley. Last year, the Bengals became a run-oriented team, but that was because, the report states, WR Laveranues Coles couldn't get open, the tight ends excelled at dropping passes, Andre Caldwell didn't develop and Jerome Simpson was nonexistent and Chris Henry wasn't used enough before his death. "We went down a notch," coach Marvin Lewis said in describing the passing game. But now, Palmer says his arm is "stronger than ever" because of all the exercises he did to strengthen the elbow. He says Bryant is "a real threat inside" and he likes the moves made this offseason. "We have added weapons," Palmer said.
Analysis: We'd like to see Palmer use all his new weapons and play better than he did in 2009. Palmer has the chance to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this year, but he should be viewed as a No. 2 option coming into the season. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues, and don't be surprised if Palmer is starting for you by the end of the year.
News: The official team website for the Bengals reports that QB Carson Palmer, who played the last 13 games with a torn ligament in his left, non-throwing thumb, has recovered nicely from post-season surgery. He says it is 100 percent, and playing with two hands again should make the play-action game smoother.
Analysis: Palmer got plenty of new weapons this offseason with the addition of Antonio Bryant and Matt Jones in free agency and Jermaine Gresham and Jordan Shipley in the draft. Along with Chad Ochocinco, he has plenty of targets to help him improve this season. The Bengals proved to be a running team in 2009 with the emergence of Cedric Benson, but it's clear Cincinnati wants to be more balanced on offense. Palmer has the chance to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this year, but he should be viewed as a No. 2 option coming into the season. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues, and don't be surprised if Palmer is starting for you by the end of the year.
News: The Sports Xchange reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer was pleased with what the team has done in the draft and offseason. Besides filling the most pressing need at tight end with Oklahoma's Jermaine Gresham in Round 1, the Bengals also added receivers in the third and sixth rounds with Texas' Jordan Shipley and Kansas' Dez Briscoe. Factor in the free-agent signings of Antonio Bryant and Matt Jones and Palmer will have plenty of new targets to get familiar with this offseason. Said Palmer of the draft: "I thought it was good. It's always good not having a number of spots where you desperately need a guy. We've got some guys who can help us right away. The one hole has been tight end and we quite possibly got the best guy at that spot. I'm excited to see what they can do." Palmer was especially pleased with Gresham. "I've watched his college reel and combine workout since we drafted him," Palmer said. "He's a great looking athlete. He moves like a receiver."
Analysis: Let's also not forget about Palmer's No. 1 target, Chad Ochocinco. The Bengals proved to be a running team in 2009 with the emergence of Cedric Benson, but it's clear Cincinnati wants to be more balanced on offense. Palmer has the chance to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this year, but he should be viewed as a No. 2 option coming into the season. He's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues, and don't be surprised if Palmer is starting for you by the end of the year.
News: The Bengals filled their biggest hole by taking Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham with the 21st pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, providing their offense with an ingredient that's been long missing from the passing game. Greshman is an accomplished pass catcher as well as a solid blocker. It's only the second time in franchise history that the Bengals selected a tight end in the first round (Mike Cobb, 1977). "It gives us something we were missing last year," offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said. "When the other guys got doubled (in coverage), we struggled a little bit. ... We're in a situation where we can add the guy and feel real good about putting things in for him and growing his role."
Analysis: Palmer should find the passing lanes far more open than last season, and it's not just because of Gresham -- though he'll help. Armed with receivers Chad Ochocinco and Antonio Bryant, along with Andre Caldwell and possibly Matt Jones as contributors, and now adding a big pass-catching tight end into the mix, Palmer has many options to go with. We're feeling good about his chances to pop compared to the numbers we saw from him in 2009 (3.094 yards, 21 touchdowns). He remains a top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB, but you might want to think about him with a mid-round pick now that his stats have room to grow.
News: The Bengals have signed free agent WR Antonio Bryant to a four-year deal worth $28 million, and the signing was designed specifically to help Carson Palmer pass more effectively. "We believe Antonio was the top receiving prospect among this year's unrestricted free agents, and we are excited to have him with us," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. "... [W]e are moving forward to get better offensively, particularly in the passing game. As I've said, we need to keep putting key pieces around our very fine quarterback (Carson Palmer) to utilize his skills as much as we can."
Analysis: Might this mean that the Bengals are getting away from being a running team and consider the pass attack? It's definitely a step that way. Palmer was pedestrian in 2009, finishing with 3,094 yards on 282 of 466 passing (60.5 percent) with 21 touchdowns and 13 interceptions and three rushing touchdowns, but perhaps the Bengals were nervous about testing his rehabilitated elbow. Bryant is an upgrade over Laveranues Coles and should be decent for the Bengals this season, but they still need another target to go with him and Chad Ochocinco to help Palmer to his potential. We still view Palmer as a quality No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 18 of 36 passes for 146 yards with one touchdown and one interception in Saturday's Wild Card playoff loss to the Jets. He also ran once for two yards.
Analysis: Palmer's poor season is now complete. He didn't do a whole lot for his Fantasy owners during the regular season and continued to disappoint on Saturday. Heading into 2010, he will likely be no more than a risky low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer struggled mightily at the Jets in Week 17 and was replaced after one half by backup J.T. O'Sullivan. The Bengals had planned on benching many of their key players early in the game, so it was not a surprise. Palmer was just 1 for 11 throwing the ball, failing to gain a yard on the one pass he completed to Laveranues Coles. He also threw an interception in the contest.
Analysis: Fantasy owners were encouraged to stay away from Palmer in Week 17 and it was good advice as he lost points with his performance. Palmer had a somewhat disappointing season overall, finishing with 3,094 yards, 21 TD passes and 13 interceptions. He also ran for three scores. Palmer is an elite talent in the NFL but should only be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option on Draft Day in 2010.
News: The Bengals are locked into the No. 3 or 4 seed in the AFC playoffs, guaranteeing them a home game for winning the AFC North. If the Patriots win their game early on Sunday at the Texans, then the Bengals will be locked into the No. 4 seed regardless of their result against the Jets on Sunday night. The last time head coach Marvin Lewis led the Bengals to the postseason was in the 2005 season. With nothing on the line in Week 17, Carson Palmer played two offensive series and the rest of the first-team offense played anywhere from one half to three quarters with limited totals. Lewis is mum as to how he'll approach this game. "We're going to go win the football game," he said. "You always want to be as high a seed as you can in the playoffs. Why would you want to be the fourth when you have the opportunity to be third?"
Analysis: If you own any of the Bengals' studs -- Palmer, Cedric Benson, Chad Ochocinco and even Laveranues Coles -- you're in a tough spot if you need them in Week 17. You cannot expect them to play a full game against the Jets, especially if they can't improve to a No. 3 seed (the prospect of going from a No. 4 seed to a No. 3 seed isn't that enthralling anyway). Consider other options before going with any of these guys in Week 17 since they could seriously disappoint. Check out what else we have to say about players on playoff-bound teams who might rest in Week 17.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 17 of 25 passes for 139 yards with two touchdowns and an interception in a Week 16 win over the Chiefs. He also ran twice for 2 yards.
Analysis: While the touchdowns have been there for Palmer recently (seven in last five games), he has now failed to get over 150 yards in three of his last five games. While 2009 has clearly been a disappointing campaign for Palmer, he's hanging in there with his TD passes. In Week 17, the Bengals play at the Jets, which is a tough matchup as New York came into Week 16 at the top pass defense in the NFL.
News: QB Carson Palmer threw for 314 yards and two touchdowns in Week 15 at San Diego. He completed 27 of 40 passes and was intercepted once in the game.
Analysis: For Palmer, it was just his first 300-yard game of the season. It was also his first multi-touchdown performance since Week 7. Palmer has been a No. 2-caliber QB in Fantasy this season and that's exactly where we value him heading into Week 16, but he does have some sleeper value with a good matchup against a weak Chiefs pass defense.
News: In the Bengals' Week 14 loss at the Vikings, QB Carson Palmer struggled in completing 15 of 25 passes for just 94 yards with a touchdown to Chad Ochocinco. Not one of Palmer's completions went for more than 15 yards.
Analysis: We had a feeling Palmer would struggle in this matchup, but not to this extent. He'll be in for another tough road game in Week 15 when he plays at San Diego. Keep Palmer out of active Fantasy lineups for his next matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a below-average game by his standards on Sunday in a Week 13 win over the lowly Lions. Palmer completed 17 of his 29 passes in the game, gaining 220 yards. He threw a TD pass to Chad Ochocinco but was also intercepted twice. Palmer was also credited with 7 rushing yards on five attempts. He also lost a fumble in the game.
Analysis: Since throwing for five touchdowns in Week 7 against Chicago, Palmer has three touchdowns and three interceptions and has not thrown for more than 225 yards in a game. He continues to lead the Bengals to victories, but his inability to get stats is certainly frustrating to Fantasy owners. The Bengals take on an average Minnesota pass defense in Week 14 on the road. Think of Palmer as just a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for that contest.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was held to just 110 passing yards in Week 12 against Cleveland. He completed 13 of 24 passes, including a 4-yard touchdown pass to TE J.P. Foschi.
Analysis: Palmer was not ineffective in Week 6, but the Bengals simply chose to run the ball down Cleveland's throat for the entire game. They ran for 200-plus yards in a 16-7 game and Palmer was not called upon to do much passing. However, Palmer has thrown just two touchdowns in his last four games as the Bengals become more of a running team. Consider Palmer a good candidate for bigger numbers in Week 13 against Detroit's weak pass defense.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer plays Cleveland in Week 12. Palmer has already met the Browns this season and threw for 230 yards with two TDs and an pick back in early October. In his last five games against the Browns, Palmer has 14 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Cleveland has been among the worst in the NFL against the pass this season.
Analysis: Palmer had an off game in Week 11 against Oakland and only managed 178 yards with no touchdowns the week prior as well at Pittsburgh. He even struggled against Baltimore the week before that. Palmer is probably thanking his lucky stars not to face a top NFL defense in Week 12 and he's going to explode with Fantasy value because of it. Treat him as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer did not have one of his better performances on Sunday in a Week 11 loss to the Raiders. Palmer completed 14 of his 22 passes in the game for a total of 207 yards. He failed to throw a TD pass for the second straight week and threw an interception on a Hail Mary attempt with the clock expiring in the fourth quarter. He did however have two rushing TDs in the game, gaining a total of 7 yards on the ground. Palmer also lost a fumble.
Analysis: Palmer has not looked too impressive since the Bengals’ bye in Week 8, throwing just one touchdown pass and failing to earn a passer rating above 63.6, which he had on Sunday. The two rushing TDs did salvage his Week 11 for Fantasy owners, but he is not instilling too much faith in them. However, Palmer does have a great matchup Week 12 against the Browns. In Week 4 at Cleveland, Palmer was 23 for 44 for 230 yards, two TDs and an interception. The Browns defense was picked apart by Matthew Stafford in Week 11, so expect Palmer to improve upon his Week 4 showing against the Browns. Think of Palmer as a low-end No. 1 option for Week 12. If Cedric Benson is able to return for that game, Palmer might not be as attractive of an option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer failed to throw a touchdown pass for the first time since Week 1 in the Week 10 game at Pittsburgh and will look to right that wrong in Week 11 at Oakland. Unfortunately, the Raiders are actually very solid against the pass and have allowed just eight touchdowns through the air this season. That said, Palmer has thrown eight TD passes in his last five games with just two picks. The one and only time he faced the Raiders in the past was back in 2006. He threw for 297 yards and two touchdowns in that game but had three picks as well.
Analysis: Palmer doesn't have the best history against the Raiders and Oakland has been excellent at keeping quarterbacks out of the end zone this season. We think he'll get back to throwing at least one TD pass in Week 11 but he's just a No. 2 Fantasy option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 18 of 30 passing for 178 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions Sunday at the Steelers. He also had five carries for minus-2 yards.
Analysis: Palmer should rebound with a better performance in Week 11 at Oakland. The Raiders have a solid secondary, and Palmer hasn't posted great stats for the most part this season outside of the game against Chicago. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB against Oakland.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer led his team to victory over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 9. Palmer was solid but not spectacular in the game with 224 yards on 20 of 33 passing. Palmer did not have any interceptions and threw a touchdown pass to Andre Caldwell from 6 yards out in the 1st quarter to get the scoring started. Palmer added 10 rushing yards on one carry.
Analysis: Palmer threw for his fewest amount of yards since Week 3 against Pittsburgh but still got the job done for the win. He didn't come close to the five touchdowns he threw last week but it works anyway. Palmer and the Bengals play at Pittsburgh in Week 10 and he definitely struggled against them in Week 3 with 183 yards and a touchdown. Still, he didn't throw a pick in that game and can still be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option in Week 10.
News: Coming off the bye week, Bengals QB Carson Palmer said he was refreshed and ready to go for Sunday's game vs. the Ravens. "It was a nice little break," Palmer said. "We looked at film, spent time with the family and got recharged. We just have to get ready for two big division opponents right now."
Analysis: The last time Palmer faced the Ravens in Week 5 he was 18 of 31 passing for 271 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Those are safe stats for Palmer, and he should be considered a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for this week.
News:Carson Palmer threw five touchdown passes -- four during Cincinnati's dominant first half -- in a shocking 45-10 victory Sunday that will go down as one of the worst days in Bears history. Palmer finished 20 of 24 for 233 yards, one shy of his career high for touchdown throws. Palmer - playing with a brace on his sprained left (non-throwing) thumb for the second straight week - piled up the points. Palmer threw short touchdown passes to different receivers on the first four drives. Chicago hadn't given up so many first-half points since 2003.
Analysis: Palmer threw six touchdown passes in Cleveland for his career high. Palmer has a touchdown pass in every game since a 12-7 opening loss to the Broncos in Week 1. He has a total of 13 passing TDs on the season and seven interceptions. This has been a bounce back campaign for Palmer who takes on a below average Baltimore pass defense in Week 9, after a bye in Week 8. He threw for 271 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception in Week 5 at Baltimore.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a non-division opponent in Week 7 against Chicago. The Bears rank just 14th in the NFL against the pass, giving up just six touchdown passes in five games with five interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer has thrown multiple touchdown passes just twice this season and has throw an interception in all but one game this year. The matchup against a solid Bears defense in Week 6 does not inspire much confidence. The Bears have done well against some of the top quarterbacks in the league this year. They have only allowed multiple passing touchdowns once, which was last week against Matt Ryan. Consider Palmer a risky play this week and someone to sit depending on your alternatives.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer was 23 of 35 passing for 259 yards, one touchdown and one interception Sunday against Houston. He also had one carry for 2 yards. Palmer now has an interception in five of six games this year.
Analysis: Palmer was dealing with an injury to his left, non-throwing thumb, but that had little effect on his performance. He continues to struggle in posting a big Fantasy performance, but Palmer should still be considered a low-end No. 1 QB in Week 7 against Chicago. Hopefully he will break out of his funk against the Bears.
News: As expected, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (thumb) was activated and listed as a starter for Week 6 against Houston. He had been listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: This thumb ailment shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer fully participated in practice all week long and is probable to play vs. the Texans in Week 6. Palmer sprained his thumb in the fourth quarter of a 17-14 win over Baltimore on Sunday. He had to hand off using his right hand only for the rest of the game, forcing him to change how he handled the ball. Palmer said on Wednesday that the thumb was much better - it wasn't taped when he met with reporters - and shouldn't affect him on Sunday against the Houston Texans.
Analysis: This shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer wore a glove on his left hand but fully participated in practice, an indication that his sprained thumb won't be a problem. Palmer hurt the thumb in the fourth quarter of a 17-14 win over Baltimore on Sunday. He had to hand off using his right hand only for the rest of the game, forcing him to change how he handled the ball. Palmer said on Wednesday that the thumb was much better - it wasn't taped when he met with reporters - and shouldn't affect him on Sunday against the Houston Texans.
Analysis: This shouldn't impact Palmer's passing at all. What will impact Palmer is Houston's middle-of-the-road pass defense, allowing 222.2 pass yards per game with five passing scores allowed and only two interceptions on the year. If your primary quarterback is on bye in Week 6, consider Palmer a phenomenal replacement. Otherwise, view Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy passer for the upcoming matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has his team at 4-1 and in first place. That said, his numbers haven't been amazing this season. Palmer heads into Week 6 against Houston with 1,116 yards on 97 of 168 passing with seven touchdowns and six interceptions. The last and only time he faced Houston came back in 2005. He threw for 276 yards in that game with a touchdown.
Analysis: Houston has been fairly decent versus the pass this season and have allowed just over 222 yards per game with five touchdowns and two picks. Palmer hopes to keep the winning streak alive but until he really has a breakout game we are going to be skeptical about the ceiling on his value. He was once a top Fantasy option but right now is mainly a No. 2 Fantasy QB.
News: In a duel for first place in the AFC North, the Bengals found another way to win a close game. Carson Palmer threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Andre Caldwell with 22 seconds left to cap an 80-yard drive, and the Bengals escaped with a 17-14 victory over the Ravens on Sunday. All five of Cincinnati's games this season have been decided by seven points for fewer. It appeared as if the Bengals (4-1) were destined to come out on the short end of this one until Palmer masterfully directed the final drive -- with the help of three yellow flags. An illegal contact penalty against the Ravens' Chris Carr and an unnecessary roughness call against Ray Lewis preceded the topper, a pass interference penalty against Frank Walker on third and 16 from the Baltimore 30. On the next play, Palmer found Caldwell over the middle for the winning score. Palmer finished the game going 18 for 31 passing for 271 yards. The Caldwell score was Palmer's lone TD pass of the game. He was also interecepted by Ed Reed who took the pick to the house.
Analysis: Palmer said earlier in the week that he was disappointed with his performance so far this season and won't likely be all that pleased with his Week 5 numbers. If he didn't end up with the TD drive at the end of the game, Palmer's numbers would have looked really pedestrian. However, Palmer will have a chance to put up big numbers in Week 6 as the Bengals take on an average Houston pass defense. Think of him as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 6.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer said Wednesday he isn't playing up to his capabilities. He's completing 57.7 percent of his attempts for six TDs and five INTs. "Not good enough," he said. "Not good enough to win a championship. I can't give myself a letter grade, but I haven't played up to my own expectations." Coach Marvin Lewis had a different take on Palmer's subpar performance against the Browns (23 of 44 for two TDs and an INT while the offense didn't gain a first down for 37 minutes). "I think he's playing better and better each week. His decision-making was as good as it's been this year."
Analysis: Palmer has struggled coming into the season, and it didn't help that he had a sprained ankle during training camp. We expect Palmer to turn things around, but this isn't a good week to count on him against the Ravens. Baltimore has allowed five passing touchdowns but has six interceptions and 10 sacks on the season. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB against the Ravens.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a mediocre game Week 4 at Cleveland but ended up leading the team to a 23-20 OT win. Palmer went 23 for 44 in the game through the air, racking up 230 yards. Palmer threw two touchdown passes to Chad Ochocinco and was picked off by Brodney Pool. He also carried the ball three times for 20 yards.
Analysis: Fantasy owners were expecting big things from Palmer Week 4 against a weak Browns pass defense, but he failed to live up to those expectations. Palmer has however been pretty good to open the 2009 season, throwing for six TD passes through four games and adding another on the ground. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB most weeks but heads into a tough match-up at Baltimore Week 5. Think of him as a No. 2 Fantasy option Week 5.
News: The Bengals' Carson Palmer has been decent in three weeks this season as he's thrown for 615 yards with 4 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. Consider this, however. Palmer has faced three of the league's best defensive teams in Denver, at Green Bay and against Pittsburgh. Palmer faces the Browns in Cleveland in Week 4. Cleveland is not a good defensive team. Since Palmer missed most of last season, the last time he faced the Browns was twice in 2007. In those two games, Palmer threw for 516 yards with 7 touchdowns and 4 interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer has owned the Browns in the past and this year's version is probably the worst yet. With the toughness of the matchups he's seen leading up to Week 4, Palmer should be absolutely licking his chops in anticipation of facing Cleveland. Go ahead and start him in all leagues as a high-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who threw for only 185 yards last week but made up for it with three touchdown passes, again had a modest performance against the Steelers in Week 3. He completed 20 of 37 passes for 183 yards, but he threw only one touchdown pass this time -- a four-yarder to Andre Caldwell in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Palmer was a disaster last season because of an elbow injury, and he really hasn't proven himself this season. He had a tough matchup against the Steelers on Sunday, so you can't really hold that performance against him, but he'll need to start putting up yards sooner or later to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He has good matchup Week 4 at Cleveland, so keep him active.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has never thrown for more than 251 yards against the Steelers, his Week 3 opponents. Palmer torched them for 251 back in 2006 and threw for 4 touchdowns with just 193 yards earlier that season but he's a different quarterback right now. In two games against Denver and at Green Bay this season, Palmer is 36 for 56 for 432 yards with 3 touchdowns and 4 interceptions. All three scores came last week but he threw for just 185 yards in that game.
Analysis: Palmer has definitely looked shaky to start the season as he continues to work his way back into rhythm after his elbow injury. He hasn't been able to throw for high yardage yet but was much improved Week 2 at Green Bay against a tough secondary. We think he'll continue to improve but the Steelers possess a very solid defense. Treat Palmer as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 3.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer bounced back from a poor outing in Week 1 against Denver with a solid game at Green Bay in Week 2. He was only 15 of 23 passing for 185 yards with two interceptions, but he had three touchdowns through the air and one on the ground.
Analysis: Palmer now has four interceptions on the season, but he was able to come up with a successful Fantasy outing thanks to the four touchdowns. His three touchdown passes went to Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. We like Palmer to remain a good Fantasy option, and he's worth using as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 3 against the Steelers.
News: The good news about QB Carson Palmer is that, despite his mediocre season opener against Denver, he's shown no signs of the elbow trouble that plagued him last year. Just the ankle sprain from training camp. "If he could drop back in a wheelchair out there, he could probably get the ball to us," WR Chad Ochocinco said Thursday. Coach Marvin Lewis also wasn't really concerned with Palmer, who had 247 passing yards with two interceptions. "It was his first game of playing after a while," Lewis said. "There's some things we I'd like him to do better. He had a couple throws that he normally makes that he missed."
Analysis: Palmer comes into this game against a Packers defense that intercepted Bears QB Jay Cutler four times in Week 1. With the way Palmer played in Week 1, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy QB in this matchup.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will face a non-division opponent in Week 2 at Green Bay. The Packers are coming off a four-interception performance against the Bears in Week 1. They allowed one touchdown and 266 yards.
Analysis: Palmer is coming off a poor start against what was not a poor matchup in 1 against the Broncos as he was held without a touchdown and was intercepted twice. Considering the fact he is coming off a major injury, had a poor game in Week 1 and is facing a tough opponent, we consider him a candidate to be reserved in Week 2.
News: In the Bengals' Week 1 loss vs. the Broncos, QB Carson Palmer started and was fairly efficient with 247 yards on 21 of 33 passing, but he threw two interceptions including a Hail Mary at the end of the game. Palmer added 2 rush yards and was sacked three times. Palmer said after the game that he felt a little off in his return to the lineup. "It took a little bit to get the rust off. I wasn't exactly comfortable," he said.
Analysis: Palmer didn't have that tough of a matchup and still struggled, possibly because of the ankle. Next week he heads to Green Bay to take on the Packers, and that will be a little more difficult than the Broncos at home. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy option in Week 2.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will start vs. Denver in Week 1. He was limited with an ankle sprain for much of the preseason.
Analysis: We like Palmer's matchup a lot and expect him to have a solid week. Start him in Week 1 Fantasy action.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (ankle) practiced in full Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 1 vs. Denver. Palmer injured his ankle during the first preseason game against New Orleans and sat out the final three, but has been cleared by the doctors to resume his full routine.
Analysis: The only thing at this point that will prevent Palmer taking the field is a setback during practice, but Cincinnati is going to do everything in their power to avoid that. Palmer is itching to get back on the field and prove he can still sling it with the best in the NFL. He also has a great matchup against the Broncos, who were among the worst pass defenses last year at 229 yards per game allowed with 20 touchdowns and only six interceptions. They should improve this year, but Palmer should do fine in this matchup. With Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry, Palmer has plenty of talent to play like a No. 1 Fantasy QB this week and the entire season.
News:Carson Palmer's health will go a long way in determining if the Bengals are back after an ugly four-win season. If he can stay on the field, his team could improve, but in that regard, they're not off to an encouraging start. Palmer was hit several times in the preseason opener at New Orleans and left the game with a moderate high-ankle sprain, the kind that tends to linger and get worse with every hit. After missing three preseason games - more than he missed when he was coming back from reconstructive knee surgery in 2006 - there's a question how sharp he can be for a team that really needs a fast start. "I feel like I'm prepared," said Palmer, who expects to start the opener against Denver in Week 1. "This isn't the best of situations, but you've got to go with what you've got. Would I like to have played? Sure. I'd like to have played all four games."
Analysis: Palmer's matchup against the Broncos is a pretty good one, and we like that he hasn't done anything to further hurt his ankle this summer. Hopefully that stays the same in the Bengals' home opener. Consider him a low-end No. 1 option for Week 1.
News: The only question for the Bengals in Thursday's preseason game against the Colts was whether the trainers would allow Carson Palmer to play despite a sprained left ankle. Two hours before the game, he knew he wasn't going to get the chance. He worked out on an adjacent practice field, just him and a trainer, doing a series of agility drills for the ankle. His gray Bengals shirt was drenched with sweat.
Analysis: Palmer dressed in his uniform for the game -- a brace on his left ankle bulged from under his white sock -- and watched from the sideline. "It's a tease," Palmer said. "It's just good to know that I'm that much closer. It's a week away. I'm excited." He'll be heading into the season opener against Denver without much of a preseason. Palmer suffered a moderate high-ankle sprain in the first preseason game, then sat out the last three. He didn't return to practice until this week. He threw only 11 passes in the preseason games. Palmer could be due for a bounce back season in 2009 and should be thought of as a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 on Draft Day.
News: According to reports, the Bengals will hold QB Carson Palmer out of Thursday's preseason finale against Indianapolis. He is expected to be ready for the team's regular-season opener against Denver, however.
Analysis: The Bengals are going to play it safe with their quarterback and Fantasy owners should just be happy that it does sound like Palmer will be ready for Week 1. Palmer lost right tackle Andre Smith in practice earlier this week and the Bengals are already dealing with a sub-par offensive line. That could be a big negative when it comes to keeping Palmer, injury-riddled as he has been, healthy. Don't let this stop you from taking Palmer, who we still believe will put up the kind of numbers to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season. He's worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8.
News:Carson Palmer's ankle is on the mend but his rookie tackle's foot is not. Right tackle Andre Smith has broken his foot during practice, only two days after he ended his holdout with the Bengals. He will be sidelined at least a few weeks and won't be able to help protect Palmer. The first-round draft pick sustained a small fracture in his left foot during a noncontact drill Tuesday, his third workout with the team. Coach Marvin Lewis said the injury won't require surgery. Smith was the sixth overall pick, and the Bengals expected him to start at right tackle. His contract impasse forced him to miss the first three preseason games and cost him the chance to win a starting job in training camp.
Analysis: This hurts the depth of the Bengals' O-line more than it hurts Palmer, who has played behind a suspect offensive line for years but still has produced quality stats. Don't let this stop you from taking Palmer, who we still believe will put up the kind of numbers to be a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season. He's worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8.
News:Carson Palmer threw some passes to Bengals teammates during practice Monday, an indication he could play in the final preseason game. Palmer threw to receivers during the first 30 minutes of practice, the first time he's done that in nearly three weeks. The quarterback dropped back after taking snaps and moved around without problem on his sprained left ankle. He sustained a moderate sprain in the first preseason game at New Orleans, and has missed the last two. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday it's possible Palmer could play in the final exhibition game Thursday against Indianapolis.
Analysis: It's looking good for Palmer to make the start of the regular season, which is all that really matters here. So long as his elbow and ankle are healed, we're looking at a solid No. 1 Fantasy QB with potential to match his previous totals from before 2008. Best of all, you can get him in Rounds 6 through 8, giving him excellent value to go with his potential.o
News: Offensive tackle Andre Smith signed a contract Sunday with the Cincinnati Bengals, ending an impasse that dragged on a month into the preseason. The Bengals originally planned to have Smith start at right tackle, but he has missed all three preseason games. He was in Cincinnati and agreed to the deal shortly before the start of a late afternoon practice. "He has a lot of work to do, but he knows the challenge ahead of him to make an impact on our team as soon as possible," coach Marvin Lewis said in a statement released as practice began.
Analysis: The Bengals' offensive line was one of their top priorities in the offseason. The offense finished last in the league in 2008 in large part because of the line's ineffectiveness. QB Carson Palmer missed a dozen games because he tore a ligament and tendon in his throwing elbow when he got hit while passing. Only right guard Bobbie Williams returns in the same spot this year. The Bengals let their two tackles leave and drafted Smith, whose holdout forced them to revamp their plans. Anthony Collins has played right tackle in Smith's absence. Palmer, who is dealing with an injured ankle, needs all the help he can get, and hopefully Smith can play well. Keep an eye on Palmer's ankle, but consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer doesn't know whether the Cincinnati medical staff will let him play in the final preseason game. Palmer sprained his left ankle in the first preseason game and has sat out the last two. He said Saturday that the ankle is improving, but he doesn't know what he'll be allowed to do leading up to Thursday's game against Indianapolis. Palmer says he would like to play but the decision is up to the training staff.
Analysis: The Bengals expect Palmer to be ready for the season opener on Sept. 13 against the Denver Broncos, which is all Fantasy players really care about. However, he's likely to be pretty rusty with only limited preseason action under his belt. If you think he's in for a bounce-back season, then take a flier on Palmer anywhere between the sixth and eighth rounds and just hope he can stay healthy for you as your No. 1 option.
News: The Bengals were reminded during Thursday's preseason game against the Rams that they really need quarterback Carson Palmer (ankle) back for their opener against Denver. J.T. O'Sullivan was sacked three times, lost a fumble and had two passes batted away at the line. His best moment was an improvised underhand pass to running back Brian Leonard that went for 25 yards and set up a touchdown. O'Sullivan was 7 of 13 for 94 yards while playing into the third quarter.
Analysis: With Palmer sidelined the last two games by a sprained left ankle, the offense has moved the ball in spurts but failed to get many points because of penalties and mistakes. There is no question Palmer is the Bengals' starting quarterback when healthy, but that has been a big issue since last season. He hasn't had any issues with his elbow this preseason and is merely recovering from an ankle tweak. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports that Carson Palmer is unlikely to play in Thursday's preseason game against the Rams after not practicing all week. He has not practiced since Aug. 12, which was the last practice before the team's preseason game against New Orleans. He did some light tossing on a side field Sunday and is keeping his arm in shape, but has not been able to consistently drop back to pass. "I'll take it day by day," Palmer said. "It looks slim (playing) but I'll keep rehabbing, see how it feels and if it keeps improving see where we're at Thursday." Coach Marvin Lewis said that it was unlikely that Palmer would play. J.T. O’Sullivan, who has had a strong preseason, would get the start for the second straight week while Jordan Palmer would see increased playing time.
Analysis: Palmer said that he could play with it if this was the regular season and that the training staff is being cautious. "I definitely think it's the smart thing to do," Palmer said. "Ankle sprains aren't something you want to mess with or let linger because they will linger. It's something the staff wants to treat now and be ready to roll. The training staff has decided it's best to have me ready for the opener. I would like to play in every game. I would like to play three quarters in every game. Nobody does that and obviously I haven't been able to do that. The more work you get the more comfortable you get." Given his history of injuries, Fantasy owners have to be concerned with the way his preseason has gone, but it could all help to make him that much better of a value in Fantasy drafts. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8.
News: While it's looking bleak for Palmer to play in the Bengals' third preseason game vs. the Rams, he said Monday that he will "for sure" be ready for the team's regular-season opener. Palmer sprained his ankle in the team's first preseason game at New Orleans. "I can throw, but not drop back right now," he said. "I'm trying to keep my arm in shape, basically. I'll take it day-to-day."
Analysis: You should have almost no concerns about Palmer's health at this point, and perhaps missing another preseason game will keep him fresh. Palmer is a strong candidate to have a bounce-back year and has some good receiving threats in Chad Ochocinco, Laveranues Coles and Chris Henry. Consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy QB you can swipe between Rounds 6 and 8.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer did some light tossing Sunday, but did not practice with the team. Palmer, who has a sprained left ankle, is questionable for Thursday's preseason game against St. Louis. He missed much of last season with an elbow injury. "If last week had been a regular-season game, he probably would have played. But we are going to continue to be cautious, because it is just preseason," coach Marvin Lewis said. "We'd like him to get some more time with our first unit, and I think we will do that before the preseason is over. But the most important thing is to have him 100 percent for Denver (on Sept. 13)."
Analysis: Palmer will likely take his time in coming back from the ankle injury, so don't be surprised if he takes a few days to get healthy. We need to make sure he's 100 percent, so keep an eye on his recovery. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick.
News: Bengals QB J.T. O'Sullivan started during Thursday's preseason game against the Patriots while Carson Palmer sat out with a right ankle injury suffered in the exhibition opener. Palmer doesn't expect to miss the regular-season opener and could return before then.
Analysis: While Palmer did roll his ankle last week against the Saints, we should be glad he hasn't experienced any setbacks with his throwing arm. It seems the Bengals are just being cautious so they don't have to endure another season without their star quarterback. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who sprained his ankle in the preseason opener against the Saints on Friday, returned to the locker room Monday after going through rehab. He was wearing an ankle covering but no boot on his foot. With the absence of Carson Palmer (ankle) at practice, backups J.T. O'Sullivan and Jordan Palmer have had plenty of good moments. Both will play extensively at New England on Thursday as Palmer has been ruled out for the team's second preseason game.
Analysis: Palmer will likely take his time in coming back from the ankle injury, so don't be surprised if he takes a few days to get healthy. We need to make sure he's 100 percent, so keep an eye on his recovery. When healthy, Palmer should be in line for a bounce back year this season. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option with a mid-round pick.
News:Carson Palmer's left ankle was encased in a protective boot by the time his first appearance of the preseason was done. His throwing arm, however, felt fine, and the numbers he put up in a short time proved that Cincinnati's passing game is on the comeback trail. Playing for the first time since an elbow injury sidelined him early last season, Palmer completed seven of 11 passes for 133 yards in the Bengals' 17-7 preseason loss to New Orleans on Friday night. "I feel good," Palmer said after the game, admitting he had a high-ankle sprain. "A little rusty. ... We've got to keep working and get the rust off." Palmer left the game late in the first quarter, moments after his quick sideline throw to Chad Ochocinco produced a 55-yard gain. Palmer was playing hurt by that point, but said the injury was minor and that he hoped it would not prevent him from practicing next week.
Analysis: It's also worth noting here that Palmer had excellent pass protection in the game. Palmer was more concerned with his one mistake in the game, an interception by Jonathan Vilma. It's clear that Palmer's elbow concerns are out of his mind, and hopefully this ankle injury won't be significant enough to deter Fantasy owners from taking him (though high-ankle sprains have been problematic in the past). We see Palmer as a legit low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick around Rounds 7 and 8.
News:Carson Palmer had a completion and an interception Friday on the opening drive of the Cincinnati Bengals' training camp scrimmage, played under an airborne reminder of fans' discontent. The Bengals went 4-11-1 last season, when Palmer missed a dozen games with a severe elbow injury. He was 3 for 4 for 36 yards during the annual scrimmage, with an interception on a pass that safety Chris Crocker anticipated. Crocker saw the play developing and stepped in front of Chad Ochocinco. "That was the first thing I asked him, if he knew what the play was," Palmer said. "And the defender will never admit to knowing the play. They always say it's their great instincts and their keen ability. But he made a good play. I shouldn't have thrown it there."
Analysis: The main intrigue for the scrimmage was how Palmer would look when he returned to running an offense that finished last in the league without him. He played only a few series and didn't get to do much, with the offense working on running plays most of the time. The franchise quarterback didn't play after Oct. 5 last year, a 31-22 loss to Dallas that convinced him there was a problem with his passing elbow. Palmer hurt the elbow two weeks earlier when he was hit while throwing, but didn't consider it a serious injury. Tests found that he had partially torn a ligament and a tendon from the bone. He chose to let the elbow heal with time and treatment rather than having reconstructive surgery. He's been throwing full speed during the offseason. "I feel good," Palmer said. "I feel confident in what I'm doing personally, confident in what we're doing as an offense. I keep saying the same thing over and over: We just need to keep getting better. I need to keep getting better." We like Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 7 and 8 in drafts. There is clearly a ton of Fantasy potential, if he can revert to his old form.
News:Carson Palmer is practicing again with the Cincinnati Bengals after a case of bronchitis. Palmer missed two practices over the weekend and worked out with the team Monday. He said he's feeling better and has been told he's not contagious.
Analysis: Palmer is continuing to make a strong comeback from a torn elbow ligament that crushed his 2008 campaign. With a good veteran receiving corps behind him, Palmer is in line to throw plenty this season and regain his status as a Fantasy starter. We like Palmer as a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 7 and 8 in drafts this summer.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who was limited to four starts last year due to an elbow injury that did not require surgery, says the elbow is 100 percent heading into training camp. The report says that during OTAs and minicamp, the Bengals receivers said that the passes from Palmer had the old velocity and zip. As the offseason drills went on, the long passes looked more consistent and crisper, too. Palmer will be on a pitch count during training camp, and will not throw more than 150 passes a day.
Analysis: It sounds like Palmer is all systems go for a full recovery, and we think Palmer will return as a No. 1 Fantasy QB. He is worth drafting with a mid-round pick, but keep an eye on his progress during camp. As long as there's no setback, Palmer should bounce back as a top-flight Fantasy option.
News: At the NFL Rookie Symposium in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Bengals rookie TE Chase Coffman told CBSSports.com in an exclusive interview that QB Carson Palmer has looked good throwing the ball this offseason after dealing with last year's elbow injury. "He's been throwing some great passes and looks good," Coffman said.
Analysis: All the reports from Cincinnati said Palmer has looked good this offseason, but it's good to hear a first-hand account. We like Palmer to bounce back as a No. 1 Fantasy QB this season, but you should draft him as a No. 2 option with a mid-round pick. With Chad Ochocinco committed to a rebound year and with Laveranues Coles replacing T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Palmer should be fine. And if Coffman steps in and plays well as a rookie, Palmer could shine.
News: The Dayton Daily News reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer plans to throw plenty between now and training camp to build up his arm strength. "It's just like when a track guy needs to get faster. You don't do 5,000 squats, you run and run some more," Palmer said. "To get your arm in shape you throw and continue to throw. So I will be throwing all summer long as well as in training camp." Palmer missed 12 games last season with a serious elbow injury. Now the former Pro Bowler is looking to rebound and lead his team to the playoffs. Palmer's offseason preparation has included the OTAs and minicamp. These are the first steps in his return to prominence. "It's great to be back," Palmer said.
Analysis: Palmer is considered one of the most prolific passers in the league, throwing for 15,630 yards and 107 touchdowns in six seasons with the Bengals. We like Palmer to bounce back and play well this season. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News:Carson Palmer squinted into the harsh afternoon sun, sizing up the defense. He pointed to the middle of the field with both index fingers, took the snap and threw a quick pass to rookie WR Quan Cosby, a crisp spiral that zipped over defenders' outstretched hands. Perfect. Just what the Bengals have been missing. Their franchise QB, the one with the balky elbow, was back at the center of the offense Thursday, running the show during the first day of minicamp. He wore long, white sleeves and black sweat pants, keeping his California cool in the midday heat. It looked and felt like old times. "Carson, he's sweet," WR Chad Ochocinco said. "He's on top of his stuff. As far as the elbow (injury), it's got to be gone because all of the balls had the normal zip. He's on point." Palmer missed a dozen games during Cincinnati's 4-11-1 season last year. He partially tore a ligament and tendon from the bone in his passing elbow, and got conflicting medical advice on what to do about it. He could have gotten reconstructive surgery, but chose to see if it would heal on its own. So far, it's apparent he made the right choice. Palmer has been throwing informally and during voluntary team workouts, slowly building back his strength. "It's getting stronger in the sense that I can throw for longer," Palmer said. "I have the same speed on the ball at the end of practice. I'm starting to get to the point now where the ball's not dying at the end of practice."
Analysis: The Bengals are keeping Palmer on the equivalent of a pitch count, limiting the number of throws he makes in practice until the season begins. Palmer's return to form - and Ochocinco's return to the fold - help Palmer return as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option. Consider Palmer a sleeper this year because owners will be afraid of his elbow and the loss of T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Seattle), but Palmer should do fine with Laveranues Coles and rookie TE Chase Coffman filling in with Ochocinco and Chris Henry. Palmer is worth a mid-round pick in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is pleased WR Chad Ochocinco is in minicamp and focused on this season. "In my seven years here, this has been as good as its been," Palmer said. "The mindset of the team, the amount of distractions is down and the focus is where it needs to be. As far as talent wise, this is probably the best talent we've had but the most maturity we've had by far. We're where we need to be, we're headed in the right direction." With Ochocinco reporting to the team's OTAs last week, it is the first time since 2005 that the starters have had a chance to practice before minicamp. That is a reason Palmer thinks the team is much more ahead than it was last year. "You compare where we are to last year, you could just tell we were a bad football team," Palmer said. "Going into training camp, coming out of training camp. Week 1, it just felt terrible. We were out of synch, out of rhythm, all of our guys weren't there. It was a scary year going in, then we start 0-2, 0-3, 0-4, you could see it coming. Right now we know we're a good team, just having that confidence and feeling is exciting. I hope we're mature enough to realize we need to take advantage of where we are because it hasn't been like this."
Analysis: It's good to see Palmer feeling confident, and all reports on his injured elbow from last year indicate he should be in line for a bounce-back year. Consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, and he's worth drafting with a mid-round pick.
News: According to the team web site, Bengals QB Carson Palmer looked good in his first workout during OTA practice Tuesday. Palmer, who missed 12 games last season with an elbow injury, threw with ease. The web site said "Palmer's elbow concerns were dispelled early when he threw an easy 45-yard floater on the money downfield to (WR Chris) Henry, who caught it in stride." Said Palmer: "It feels like it did before I hurt my elbow."
Analysis: This is shaping up to be great news for Palmer. He also got his first chance to work with WR Laveranues Coles, who was signed to replace the departed T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Seattle). Rookie TE Chase Coffman (foot) isn't practicing, and Chad Ochocinco isn't taking part in the workout, but Palmer is still getting his work in, which is important. We like Palmer as a No. 2 Fantasy QB entering the season, but he could return to No. 1 status if he continues to get good reports like this.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer said his throwing elbow is 100 percent, and that he plans to throw 150 passes during OTA practices, which is consistent with past years. Palmer, who missed 12 games last season with an elbow injury, said the offseason has been "pretty normal" as far as training and conditioning work. "I'm very eager to get out there and participate," Palmer said.
Analysis: It sounds like Palmer is getting close to 100 percent, which is a good thing and will make a viable Fantasy option this year. He enters the season as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he could move up to No. 1 status quickly if he shows he's back to form. He did lose T.J. Houshmandzadeh as a free agent to Seattle, but Laveranues Coles takes his place alongside Chad Ochocinco. Plan on drafting Palmer with a mid-round pick, but keep an eye on how his elbow holds up this offseason.
News: The Bengals made sure to get QB Carson Palmer some protection in the NFL Draft by taking OT Andre Smith from Alabama with their first-round pick at No. 6 overall. Smith is listed at 6-foot-4, 332 pounds. Palmer, who was banged up last year with an elbow injury, should definitely be happy with this draft selection.
Analysis: Palmer will need plenty of time to get the ball downfield to Chad Johnson and Chris Henry. Smith should provide that, and addressing the offensive line was a big key for the Bengals. Keeping Palmer healthy is a big key for Fantasy owners, and he should be 100 percent for this season. Palmer comes into the year as a No. 2 Fantasy QB, but he has the potential to regain his form when healthy and return to being a No. 1 option. He has sleeper written all over him in this year's drafts.
News:Carson Palmer says his arm is at full strength and ready for football, according to ESPN. The veteran QB of the Bengals is recovered from offseason rehab of a torn elbow ligament that healed without surgery and is on pace to be ready for the start of training camp. "I'm 100 percent," Palmer said. "I've been cleared. My elbow feels great and I just have to keep going and get the small mechanical things that I normally do this time of year."
Analysis: The Bengals are still expected to keep Palmer on a "pitch count" just to be safe, but it appears that he won't be unlimited otherwise in his workouts. Palmer should continue to be a candidate for high yardage on a weekly basis, especially if the Bengals improve their offensive line via the draft. Suddenly, the risk surrounding Palmer is hitting the skids, and it seems like he'll be active and under center from the get-go in 2009. Even though he lost T.J. Houshmandzadeh via free agency, the club replaced him with Laveranues Coles and will pair him with Chad Ochocinco to make for a good pass attack. Palmer remains a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick -- obviously, he's got the potential to be a No. 1 if he's on the same page with his veteran receivers.
News: With the addition of Laveranues Coles to the Bengals roster, QB Carson Palmer gets a fairly suitable replacement for T.J. Houshmandzadeh. They're different receivers -- Coles depends on his speed more than Houshmandzadeh does, and as such is no lock for a bumper crop of touchdowns unless Palmer targets him near the end zone. That might be unlikely considering the relationship and chemistry Palmer has with Chad Ocho Cinco. However, Coles' hands and overall ability should put a band-aid on the gash left by Houshmandzadeh's departure to Seattle.
Analysis: Palmer really needed Coles to save his Fantasy value -- the next best receivers behind him and Ocho Cinco are Chris Henry, Andre Caldwell and Jerome Simpson. In any event, Palmer should continue to be a candidate for high yardage on a weekly basis, especially if the Bengals improve their offensive line via the draft. Don't forget that Palmer is coming back from a partially torn elbow muscle this season, something he elected not to have surgery on. There's a lot of risk with Palmer, but he's a bit easier to digest with a veteran like Coles on the roster. Palmer remains a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick -- obviously, he's got the potential to be a No. 1 if he's fully healed and on the same page with his veteran receivers.
News:Carson Palmer will have one of his big targets missing in 2009 as WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh signed a five-year deal with the Seahawks on Monday. Palmer had relied on Houshmandzadeh since becoming the club's full-time starter in 2004, connecting with him for a pair of 1,000-yard seasons and at least seven scores in three seasons from 2005-07.
Analysis: Palmer still has Chad Ocho Cinco to throw to as well as Chris Henry and second-year receivers Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell. Still, missing one of his key receivers will sting in 2009, especially if he's not properly replaced. Not only will this departure hurt Palmer's overall stats, but it will make the Bengals easier to defend as clubs can zero in on Ocho Cinco. And don't forget that Palmer is coming back from a partially torn elbow muscle this season, something he elected not to have surgery for. There's a lot of risk with Palmer, and not a lot of reward to go with it. Even with his talent, Palmer is reduced to a top-of-the-line No. 2 Fantasy QB worth a middle-round pick.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer won't need surgery on his right elbow and should be ready for the team's regular offseason workouts later on this year. Team spokesman Jack Brennan said Tuesday night the latest MRI on Palmer's elbow indicates the quarterback won't need an operation to repair a ligament and tendon partially torn from the bone. Palmer had torn a ligament and tendon in the third game of the season when his arm was hit while he threw a pass and played in only one game after that. On the advice of doctors, he rested the elbow for two months to see if the injury would heal on its own.
Analysis: Palmer had an off year when he did play, completing 76-of-130 passes for 736 yards (5.7 yards per attempt -- a career-low). He threw three touchdowns but had four interceptions and added 38 rush yards. He'll likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into 2009 drafts and be nabbed with a pick between Rounds 5 and 8. Obviously, he's got a lot of sleeper potential based on his ability, though his receiving corps could undergo some changes this offseason.
News: The Bengals have listed the inactives for their Week 17 game vs. Kansas City. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer, RB Chris Perry, RB Kenny Watson, WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, WR Chad Johnson and DT Jason Shirley.
Analysis: Housh and Johnson clearly have the most Fantasy value in this group, so make sure you bench them in all formats. The other guys, except for Palmer, who was ruled out for the season already, have minimal or zero value.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was encouraged by how his elbow reacted to a day of limited practice, leaving him more confident he can avoid reconstructive surgery. Palmer joined the team for 7-on-7 drills Tuesday and made about 30 passes, including several long throws. Palmer had torn a ligament and tendon in the third game of the season when his arm was hit while he threw a pass and played in only one game after that. On the advice of doctors, he rested the elbow for two months to see if the injury would heal on its own. He's been slowly increasing his throwing for the last couple of weeks, testing the elbow to see how it feels. He's hoping to avoid reconstructive surgery, an operation that few NFL quarterbacks have undergone. "I felt good," he said. "Nothing great to report, nothing out of the ordinary."
Analysis: Palmer hopes to practice with the team the rest of this week if the weather permits. Palmer will then consult his doctors and figure out the next step. Given how his throwing in practice has gone, Palmer said there's less of a possibility he'll need surgery. He also said there's no specific date for when he has to finally rule out surgery. Palmer had an off year when he did play, completing 76-of-130 passes for 736 yards (5.7 yards per attempt -- a career-low). He threw three touchdowns but had four interceptions and added 38 rush yards. He'll likely be considered a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB heading into 2009 drafts and be nabbed with a pick between Rounds 5 and 8.
News: The Bengals have announced the inactives for their Week 16 game at Cleveland. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (third QB), WR Chad Johnson, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Ben Utecht, RB Kenny Watson and CB Simeon Castille.
Analysis: Johnson was probable coming into Sunday, but his hamstring is not ready for game action. Palmer was declared out for the year earlier this season. Utecht can have some Fantasy value when healthy, but his foot injury will keep him out. Ignore the rest.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is doing well in his comeback from an elbow injury and could throw in practice this week. Coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer is throwing hard in his personal workouts and having no problems with the elbow. Palmer has a partially torn ligament and tendon in the right elbow, which was injured in the third game of the season. He rested the elbow for the last two months, but resumed throwing two weeks ago. Lewis said he might be allowed to do some limited throwing in practice this week, though he's not going to play in any of the Bengals' last two games. Palmer is hoping to avoid reconstructive elbow surgery.
Analysis: You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow and the team has no intention of bringing him back. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will spend the offseason rehabbing with or without surgery. We'll keep track of his progress throughout the offseason and let you know what to do with him when 2009 rolls around.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (3rd QB) is still among the Week 15 inactives for Cincinnati against the Redskins. The following players are also inactive for the game: RB Chris Perry, RB Kenny Watson, DB Chinedum Ndukwe, TE Ben Utecht and WR Jerome Simpson.
Analysis: We would be stunned if the one-win and one-tie Bengals let Palmer go out on the field again this season with nothing to play for. What we will likely see is Palmer continue to test his elbow over the next three weeks and try to avoid surgery -- and playing time. You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. The rest of the names above have little Fantasy relevance and don't need to be on rosters at this time.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will throw for longer distances this week, an encouraging development as he tests his injured passing elbow. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Palmer will increase the throwing distance this week. He started by throwing the ball about 15 yards, and has increased the distance a little more as he went along. If he can progress without pain or discomfort, Lewis might let the star passer play again this season. "He'd like an opportunity to play if he's healthy and well," Lewis said. "What football players do is they play football."
Analysis: We would be stunned if the one-win and one-tie Bengals let Palmer go out on the field again this season with nothing to play for. What we will likely see is Palmer continue to test his elbow over the next three weeks and try to avoid surgery -- and playing time. You can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already -- the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will spend the offseason rehabbing with or without surgery. We'll keep track of his progress throughout the offseason and let you know what to do with him when 2009 rolls around.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is inactive for Week 14 at Indianapolis. He is, however, listed as the team's emergency 3rd QB.
Analysis: Palmer partially tore a tendon and ligament from the bone in his right elbow. He rested one week, then played in a loss at Dallas on Oct. 5. He realized he couldn't throw as hard as normal in that one, and began the recommended rest of two months, followed by some throwing. Palmer has thrown a sponge football during his rehabilitation, but only about 10 yards. In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Week 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-10-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer plans to test his right elbow in the next few days, giving him a better idea of whether he will need reconstructive surgery. Palmer said Wednesday he's still on schedule to throw a football at the end of the week, the first time he's done so in nine weeks. The elbow was injured when his arm got hit as he threw a pass in the third game of the season against the Giants. If Palmer's elbow is still bothering him when he resumes throwing, he'll likely have reconstructive surgery. "Like I keep saying, if I knew I had to have the surgery, I'd already have it done," Palmer said. "I'll see what the doctors say, have it checked out and go with a professional decision from a doctor."
Analysis: Palmer partially tore a tendon and ligament from the bone in his right elbow. He rested one week, then played in a loss at Dallas on Oct. 5. He realized he couldn't throw as hard as normal in that one, and began the recommended rest of two months, followed by some throwing. Palmer has thrown a sponge football during his rehabilitation, but only about 10 yards. In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Week 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-10-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009.
News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer among their inactives for Week 13 against the Ravens with the same right elbow injury that has sidelined him since Week 6. Palmer acknowledged Monday that the ligament and tendon in his right elbow are partially torn from the bone. He will throw in about a week to see if he can play again this season.
Analysis: Palmer likely won't return this season, so you shouldn't bother with him in seasonal leagues. Ryan Fitzpatrick, his replacement, is a No. 3 Fantasy option against the Ravens, meaning you probably shouldn't use him.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will throw in two weeks and then decide whether his passing elbow needs reconstructive surgery. Palmer acknowledged Monday that the ligament and tendon in his right elbow are partially torn from the bone. He has missed the last six games doing rehabilitation in hopes the elbow will heal without surgery. Palmer hasn't given up on the notion of playing this season. If the elbow bothers him when he resumes throwing on Dec. 7, he will have to decide whether to have reconstructive surgery that could affect him into next season. Palmer said on Monday that the elbow is feeling better and getting stronger with his rehabilitation work.
Analysis: In the meantime, you can go ahead and cut Palmer from your Fantasy team if you haven't already. Not only will he not play in Weeks 13 and 14, but the guy admitted to having a partially torn ligament in his right elbow. If he tries to play, it's not going to end well, and the reality that the Bengals are 1-9-1 won't help his cause since the team is going nowhere. Eventually, you have to figure that Palmer will have surgery, and the sooner he has it, the more likely he'll be ready to play in 2009. Palmer's not going to help your Fantasy team much this season, however.
News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer among their inactives for Week 12 at Pittsburgh with the same right elbow injury that has sidelined him since Week 6.
Analysis: Palmer likely won't return this season, so you shouldn't bother with him in seasonal leagues. Ryan Fitzpatrick, his replacement, is at best a No. 2 Fantasy option against the Steelers on Thursday.
News: The NFL Network is reporting that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will be out for Week 12 at Pittsburgh with his injured elbow. This will be the fifth game in a row that Palmer has missed with the injury. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start again for the Bengals.
Analysis: It continues to look like Palmer won't be back this season. There is no point in holding onto him at this point. It's safe to release him in all leagues. Fitzpatrick should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option against the Steelers on Thursday.
News: Cincinnati is still without QB Carson Palmer in Week 11 against the Eagles. The other inactives for Philadelphia are: DL Eric Henderson, TE Nate Lawrie, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, DL Antwan Odom and DL Jason Shirley.
Analysis: Same ol' routine for those Fantasy owners who are sticking with Palmer this late into the season. There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. He has no Fantasy value for the time being, but keep him if you want. The rest of these players have no Fantasy value and should be kept off rosters.
News: Quarterback Carson Palmer will be sidelined for the Bengals' game Sunday against the Eagles. Palmer has missed the last four games because of an injured right elbow. He has been doing rehabilitation on the elbow, hoping to play again sometime this season. The Bengals returned from their bye week Monday, and Palmer said nothing had changed in his comeback plans. Coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer will skip practice during the week to work on the elbow. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start in his place against the Eagles.
Analysis: Same ol' routine for those Fantasy owners who are sticking with Palmer this late into the season. There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term and keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player at this point isn't the worst of ideas so long as the player you would be picking up would surely help your team win now. Hopefully we learn more about Palmer's status in the coming weeks.
News: Bengals TE Daniel Coats, WR Glenn Holt, TE Brad St. Louis and QB Jesse Palmer all dressed for Cincinnati's Week 9 win over the Jaguars but failed to record an offensive statistic.
Analysis: None of these players have any Fantasy value, so continue to ignore them. The Bengals are off in Week 10.
News: The Bengals have announced the Week 9 inactives for their game vs. Jacksonville. Not in uniform will be: QB Carson Palmer (elbow), DB Geoffrey Pope (coach's decision), TE Nate Lawrie (coach's decision), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), DT Orien Harris (coach's decision) and DT Jason Shirley (coach's decision).
Analysis: Palmer obviously still has some Fantasy value, but he was declared out earlier in the week. No one else in this list has any value.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer hasn't thrown in the towel on playing again. An elbow injury has sidelined Palmer for half of the Bengals' eight losses. Even though Cincinnati is headed nowhere, Palmer is going through a rehabilitation program, hoping to play again this season. "He'll continue to follow their program of rehab," coach Marvin Lewis said. "He is doing great. At some point, they'll try to evaluate him a little further. Carson wants to play. As soon as he can get to that point and can progress back into throwing on the field, then we'll have a better indication." The Bengals have their bye in Week 10, which would provide a good time to take stock of Palmer's status. If the elbow isn't healed, he could decide that surgery is needed. Palmer has declined to talk about the injury, other than to emphatically deny reports he won't play again this season.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status to see if he can come back, but it appears like he will be out for the rest of the season. Ignore him in Week 9 vs. Jacksonville.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (inflamed right elbow) will be sidelined for a fourth straight game and fifth in six weeks Sunday vs. Jacksonville, reports the Dayton Daily News. But the paper says the club's refusal to place Palmer on injured reserve is an indication he could play again this season, as early as Nov. 16 vs. Philadelphia. The bye week is Nov. 9. "The timeline on Carson remains the same," coach Marvin Lewis said Monday. "He'll continue to follow the program of rehab. He will not throw on the (practice) field this week. He is doing great. At some point, (doctors will) evaluate him a little further. Carson wants to play. And as soon as he can get to that point and can progress back into throwing on the field, then we'll have a better indication." Ryan Fitzpatrick will start against the Jaguars.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Palmer, but it's unlikely he will play again this year. He's not worth holding onto in Fantasy leagues at this point even with the chance he could return because he would not be at 100 percent. Ignore Fitzpatrick in all leagues at this time.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer (right elbow) is inactive, as expected, for Week 8 at Houston. Head coach Marvin Lewis said Friday that Carson won't play until mid-November, but beyond that, he would not venture a guess.
Analysis: Continue to hang on to hope as long as Palmer is not officially declared out for the season, but start making plans for your QB situation as if he will not return. There is a very real possibility his year could be over.
News: There have been some conflicting reports on the status of QB Carson Palmer and his right elbow injury since the end of Bengals practice Friday. Head coach Marvin Lewis said Friday that Carson won't play until mid-November, but beyond that, he would not venture a guess. But ESPN is reporting that Carson Palmer is not likely to play again this season. Palmer is said to have a frayed ligament in his elbow and is taking a wait and see approach as far as his next step. That next step could be season-ending surgery.
Analysis: Palmer will miss another game in Week 8 at Houston. Missing Sunday's game, Palmer will have missed four of his last five games for the Bengals. It seems his fate could be decided very soon and if these reports are true, then this will be a lost season for Palmer in Fantasy. Ryan Fitzpatrick would continue to start in his place. Continue to hang on to hope as long as Palmer is not officially declared out for the season, but start making plans for your QB situation as if he will not return.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer will miss another game in Week 8 at Houston. Palmer was held out of Wednesday's practice and definitely will not play against the Texans. Missing Sunday's game, Palmer will have missed four of his last five games for the Bengals.
Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player is not advised unless the player you would be picking up would surely help your team post more points. Palmer's upside is what's keeping him from being a drop at this point.
News: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis ruled out quarterback Carson Palmer for the team's Week 8 game Sunday in Houston. Palmer will rest his sore passing elbow for a second straight week. It's unclear whether he will play again this season. For now, Palmer is trying to see if the elbow heals with rest. If not, he has an option of having surgery.
Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now. Cutting him for a quarterback or another player is not advised unless the player you would be picking up would surely help your team post more points. Palmer's upside is what's keeping him from being a drop at this point.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (elbow) was inactive for Week 7 against Pittsburgh, as expected. Ryan Fitzpatrick got the start once again in his place.
Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term. Keep him benched for now.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals RB Carson Palmer, who is out for Week 8 against the Steelers with an elbow injury, might miss the Week 9 game Oct. 26 at Houston also, Marvin Lewis said Friday after Bengals practice. The Bengals are at Houston on Oct. 26 before returning home to play Jacksonville on Nov. 2. Then they will have their bye Nov. 9. Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his third start Sunday in four weeks.
Analysis: Keep Palmer reserved against the Steelers. If he misses Week 9 also, don't be surprised if they keep him out through the bye week, if not longer. Right now, consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy option at best, but it sounds like his elbow injury could be a problem all season long.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer did not practice on Wednesday and is officially out for Week 7 vs. the Steelers.
Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term, likely taking starts from him like they are in Week 7 against a very strong Steelers defense. Keep him benched for now.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will miss another game because of his sore elbow on his right (throwing) arm. Coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Ryan Fitzpatrick will start against the Steelers on Sunday, giving Palmer another week to rest his right elbow. It'll be the third game Palmer misses this season because of the injury. Palmer sat out last Sunday, then stayed in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek, who works with the New York Mets. Palmer was hoping that the second opinion he got from Altchek would be more encouraging and allow him to get back on the field. "I think the issue with (Palmer) is a lot more serious than playing this year," receiver Chad Ocho Cinco said. "We're talking about his career in general. If it means sitting out this year or play another 20 or who knows how long he'll be able to go, I think it'd be in his best interests to sit out." Receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh agreed with Ocho Cinco that it would be best for the team long-term to rest Palmer for the remainder of the season. "I would agree with that," Houshmandzadeh said. "Whether that will happen, I'm not sure. Carson wants to play; he's a veteran. But it would be the smart thing to do."
Analysis: There are rumors that Palmer might wind up having Tommy John surgery, which would impact his next two seasons and possibly the rest of his career. Expect the Bengals to be very careful with Palmer in the short-term, likely taking starts from him like they are in Week 7 against a very strong Steelers defense. Keep him benched for now.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will have his ailing elbow examined by a New York Mets team doctor. Palmer said after the Bengals lost 26-14 to the New York Jets on Sunday that he would remain in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek. Palmer was designated as the third quarterback for the game behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Palmer's brother Jordan, the second game this season he has missed with the elbow injury. "I'll play whenever they give me clearance," said Palmer, who injured his elbow against the New York Giants three weeks ago, missed a game against the Browns, then played against Dallas last week. He said he had been told that his injury is the kind common to baseball pitchers, one reason he decided to consult Altchek. The Bengals host the Steelers next Sunday.
Analysis: Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Palmer will be OK for Week 7 against the Steelers. Keep an eye on what develops with him, but for now plan on being without Palmer in Week 7.
News: The Bengals have opted to use Carson Palmer as the emergency third-string quarterback for Week 6's game against the Jets. Palmer played during a Week 5 loss to the Cowboys, but hardly practiced during the following week and head coach Marvin Lewis opted to start QB Ryan Fitzpatrick.
Analysis: We should only see Palmer in an emergency situation Week 6 against the Jets, so it's best to keep him reserved in Fantasy. He could be on a week-to-week situation, so continue to keep tabs on him leading up to Week 7 against the Steelers. The Bengals have had some offensive struggles in 2008 and Palmer has not met Fantasy expectations. He still has potential, but should be monitored in Fantasy before relying heavily on him.
News: The official team web site reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer will not start Week 6 at the Jets with a right elbow injury. Head coach Marvin Lewis confirmed the news Friday but did not say whether or not Palmer will be the backup or emergency quarterback. Palmer is battling an elbow injury on his passing arm. "We're trying to get it not a week-to-week thing," Lewis said. "We want to get the thing calmed down so it doesn't give him any irritation or problems at all." Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his second start of the season in place of Palmer.
Analysis: Owners relying on Palmer this week must obviously go in another direction. Suitable replacements include ... well, anybody who is healthy and active as a quarterback. That is, anyone except Fitzpatrick, who doesn't have the arm or ability of Palmer. Matt Ryan and Jeff Garcia would fit the bill off the waiver wire. Keep Palmer benched, and don't lean on Fitzpatrick.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will limit his throwing during practice this week to rest his sore elbow, hoping to be ready for the New York Jets on Sunday. Palmer strained his right elbow in a loss to the Giants in Week 3, when his arm was hit while he threw a pass. He sat out a 20-12 loss to Cleveland the following week, when backup Ryan Fitzpatrick threw three interceptions and fumbled. He didn't participate in passing drills the first two days of practice last week, giving the elbow time to heal. He threw on Friday and played in a 33-21 loss at Dallas that left the Bengals (0-5) at the bottom of the NFL. Palmer said his elbow came through that game without problem. He didn't fully participate in practice Wednesday. "Probably go with the same approach as last week and hopefully be ready to play," Palmer said Wednesday. "Throw as little as possible and let it rest as much as possible, and make a decision later in the week and see what the doctors say."
Analysis: Expect Palmer to play, but play it safe and come up with a backup plan in case he doesn't make the start in Week 6 at the Jets. He's a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy QB for the game anyway, so other options should be considered.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, Bengals QB Carson Palmer came through the Dallas game well, head coach Marvin Lewis said. He threw for 217 yards on 23-of-39 passing. Palmer had missed the Week 4 game against the Browns because of inflammation in his throwing elbow. He will be examined again Wednesday, Lewis said.
Analysis: Palmer looked fairly rusty but decent in Week 5 against the Cowboys. He should continue to get healthy and will be a decent Fantasy start in all leagues in Week 6 in New York against the Jets.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer returned after missing Week 4 against the Cowboys on Sunday and almost led the Bengals to victory. Cincy lost, however, as Palmer threw for 217 yards on 23-of-39 passing. He threw two touchdowns and one interception. Palmer hit T.J. Houshmandzadeh twice for TDs of 10 and 18 yards.
Analysis: Palmer looked fairly rusty but decent in Week 5 against the Cowboys. He should continue to get healthy and will be a decent Fantasy start in all leagues in Week 6 in New York against the Jets.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer is active and starting in Dallas in Week 5.
Analysis: Palmer is still an injury risk start in Week 5 in Dallas. He's active and if he's your guy it is safe to use him. That said, if you had another viable option, you might still want to go with them.
News: NFL.com reports Bengals QB Carson Palmer (right elbow) threw during practice Friday and made it through a full session. Palmer is listed as questionable on the injury report, but head coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer is "all systems are go" if he doesn't suffer any setbacks. "He did well. We'll see how he is in the morning," Lewis said. "If things continue as they have, I think (he will play Sunday)."
Analysis: Palmer, who missed Week 4 against the Browns, has held all week that he was going to play Sunday and it appears as though he is on track. This is still a situation you need to follow up until inactives just in case Palmer suffers a setback. Even if he starts, there is definitely some injury-risk involved for Fantasy owners.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw from distances of up to 30 yards on Thursday. "(I) did all the run game stuff. They just don't want me throwing a whole lot," Palmer said. "I'll try to throw tomorrow and see what happens."
Analysis: Palmer reiterated he plans to play on Sunday, but the fact he's still not throwing fully on Thursday is not a good sign. Friday will be a big day for Palmer as his injured elbow will be tested fully. The Bengals likely will err on the side of caution and sit Palmer for another game Week 5. Fantasy owners should plan to go with healthier alternatives. Even if Palmer plays, he will be an injury-risk start.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer handed off during practice Wednesday but didn't participate in plays that called for a pass, part of the plan to help his sore elbow heal. Palmer sat out a 20-12 loss to Cleveland on Sunday with a sore elbow, hurt a week earlier in a loss to the Giants. Coach Marvin Lewis plans to wait until late in the week to decide whether Palmer will play on Sunday in Dallas. Backup Ryan Fitzpatrick ran most of the plays on offense Wednesday. He started against the Browns and threw three interceptions. Palmer thinks he can be ready to play against the Cowboys. "We'll see how Carson does through the week and what the plan of the medical staff is," coach Marvin Lewis said. "We'll just follow that course and see how it comes out."
Analysis: Palmer said the inflamed elbow is getting better. Although the injury is not considered serious, it could get worse if he tries to come back too quickly. He threw a football on Wednesday, though not in team drills. "You don't want to over-stress what I've got going on," Palmer said. "When you do, that's when you start either getting tendinitis or start tearing things and requiring surgery later on down the road. So the training staff's going to take this thing as slow as possible and definitely have a long-term mindset, and make sure we're not pushing it too fast." The Bengals likely will err on the side of caution and sit Palmer for another game Week 5. Fantasy owners should plan to go with healthier alternatives. Even if Palmer plays, he will be an injury-risk start.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer still doesn't know if Ryan Fitzpatrick will get the start in his place on Sunday. After the walkthrough before Wednesday's practice, Palmer indicated he's only participating in running plays as he rests his ailing right elbow that benched him last week against Cleveland. "Nothing's changed. I'm preparing to play. I'm expecting to play," he said. "I'll be a little bit limited in practice, but I'm getting as many reps as I can. It looks like it's going to come down to a decision later in the week. It's definitely getting better. It's progressing day-to-day. I just cross my fingers and keep praying and hope it keeps progressing." In the first part of Wednesday's practice, Palmer simulated a throwing motion in drills but he wasn't throwing the ball.
Analysis: Palmer still plans to play in Week 5, but the coaching staff in Cincy will have the final say and they apparently are leaning to giving their star QB one more week to recover from an elbow injury. Don't plan on using Fitzpatrick if he gets the call against Dallas, as the Cowboys can give even the best QB fits. A final decision on the starter won't be made until later in the week now, it seems.
News: A quote from Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis on Tuesday seemed to indicate that QB Ryan Fitzpatrick would start again in Week 5 at Dallas. "If Ryan Fitzpatrick is the guy as we go forward this week, we go into it a little differently," coach Marvin Lewis said. "That's the way we'll have to approach it. More than likely, the coaches will have to prepare to play with Fitzpatrick, and everybody has to understand that. There will be some things that we can do differently, right from the outset."
Analysis: Carson Palmer said Monday he plans to play in Week 5, but the coaching staff in Cincy will have the final say and they apparently are leaning to giving their star QB one more week to recover from an elbow injury. Don't plan on using Fitzpatrick if he gets the call against Dallas, as the Cowboys can give even the best QB fits. A final decision on the starter won't be made until late in the week.
News:Carson Palmer's sore elbow leaves the winless Bengals with another major worry. Palmer sat out a 20-12 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday because of inflammation in his passing elbow, an injury that the team didn't reveal until late in the week. When he'll be able to play is hard to say. "It's not bad," said Palmer, who was listed as the emergency quarterback and watched from the sideline wearing a cap. "I'll probably be able to prepare this week." It's a major setback but not a surprise for the Bengals, who are 0-4 for the first time in six years. They've had a hard time protecting Palmer all year. Palmer broke his nose in the preseason, then sprained his left ankle in the second game of the season. He got his nose bloodied again in an overtime loss to the Giants last Sunday, and hurt his elbow when he was hit while making a throw. He finished the game, but the elbow became more tender as he threw during practice last the week. "It happens a lot," Palmer said. "Sometimes it takes a little while to come back. Hopefully it won't take too long." Coach Marvin Lewis told Palmer on Saturday night that he was going to sit out. "He's got an elbow that's inflamed," Lewis said. "It's better. It was precautionary to not let him play - against his wishes - and have him ready for next week and beyond."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status for Week 5 at Dallas. If he plays, consider him a No. 2 Fantasy option, but there's a chance he could miss another game if his elbow bothers him. It would have been nice if Lewis informed everyone that Palmer would be out and helped Fantasy owners instead of waiting until Sunday morning.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (elbow) is out and instead is the No. 3 quarterback while backup Ryan Fitzpatrick is in for the Bengals against the Browns. Palmer surfaced on Friday's injury report with a sore elbow, didn't practice, and was listed as questionable. Palmer, who practiced Wednesday and Thursday, said Friday with the day of rest he would be "ready to roll." But his streak of 51 straight starts is over and Fitzpatrick is about ready to make his fourth NFL start and first since his rookie year of 2005.
Analysis: Keep Palmer reserved in all leagues for Week 4. He will not play against the Browns. Fitzpatrick could be a good replacement if you need to add a QB at the last minute. Consider Fitzpatrick a No. 2 Fantasy option most weeks.
News: The Bengals listed QB Carson Palmer as questionable for Week 4 against the Browns after an elbow injury limited him in practice Friday. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Palmer experienced soreness and inflammation in his right elbow (throwing elbow) during the week. "It was just a rest day. I'm completely confident in what we're doing," Palmer said. "The doctors decided the best thing to do was to be rested and fully healthy for Sunday, and I'll be ready to roll on Sunday." He was sacked six times at the Giants. Said coach Marvin Lewis: "Carson has developed some carryover soreness from last week's game. He has told us he's going to be ready to play, but he is missing some practice reps, so he has to be listed on the injury report."
Analysis: This is obviously a situation worth monitoring because Palmer has a great matchup in Week 4 against the Browns. Palmer has passed for 1,236 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past five games against the Browns. If Palmer starts, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer will be added Friday to the team's injury report as questionable with an elbow injury, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. He will be 50-50 to play Sunday against the Browns. During the week, Palmer experienced soreness and inflammation in his right elbow (throwing elbow). "It was just a rest day. I'm completely confident in what we're doing," Palmer said. "The doctors decided the best thing to do was to be rested and fully healthy for Sunday, and I'll be ready to roll on Sunday." He was sacked six times at the Giants. Said coach Marvin Lewis: "Carson has developed some carryover soreness from last week's game. He has told us he's going to be ready to play, but he is missing some practice reps, so he has to be listed on the injury report."
Analysis: This is obviously a situation worth monitoring because Palmer has a great matchup in Week 4 against the Browns. Palmer has passed for 1,236 yards, 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past five games against the Browns. If Palmer starts, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer hasn't been good this season. Palmer has one touchdown and three picks in three games and has averaged just over 141 yards through the air. His Week 4 opponent, the Browns, rank just 18th against the pass and are allowing 202 yards passing per game. Add to that a solid history for Palmer against Cleveland, he threw seven touchdowns and four picks against them last season in two games, and Palmer could be in line for his most productive week.
Analysis: The Browns don't do a great job defending the pass and Palmer is looking for his breakout week. The stars look like they could be aligning for the former USC Trojan. You can expect an interception or two on Sunday, but you can also expect him to find the end zone, hopefully on multiple occasions. Palmer will finally be the starter you drafted in Week 4 so go ahead and use him as a No. 1 option.
News: It's been a tough three weeks for Carson Palmer's Fantasy owners, but Week 4 appears to be much different. Palmer and the Bengals are at home against the struggling Browns, and Palmer has owned them. In his last four games against his in-state rival, Palmer has totaled 1,144 yards (286 yards per game) and 12 touchdowns. He has added seven interceptions in those games.
Analysis: Palmer has been tepid at best this season, but with six quarterbacks on bye this week and the Bengals hosting a solid matchup, it's time to roll out the quarterback you likely drafted to be your starter. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB this week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 286 yards and a touchdown in Week 3 at the Giants. He completed 27 of 39 passes and did not throw an interception. His 17-yard touchdown pass to T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the fourth quarter was his first touchdown pass of the season.
Analysis: Three weeks and just one touchdown for Carson Palmer? That reeks of a Fantasy bust, but not so fast, Fantasy owners. The offense showed signs of a resurgence against a tough Giants defense. They didn't look like the high-flying Bengals of the last few seasons, but Houshmandzadeh broke out for 12 catches and 146 yards and Chris Perry was able to run the ball with some efficiency. There is reason to hope that Palmer will still have a very productive Fantasy season and this game should buy him another start on your Fantasy team for a decent matchup in Week 4 against Cleveland.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who was listed as probable on the injury report with an ankle injury, will face the Giants in Week 3 at Giants Stadium. The Giants have allowed the third fewest passing yards of any defense that has played two games so far this season. They've allowed 258 yards (129.0 average) through the air and two touchdowns. They've recorded seven sacks (tied for third) and one interception.
Analysis: This isn't exactly what the doctor ordered for Cincinnati's struggling passing game. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total and T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Consider Palmer a risky start for Week 3. On the bright side, his ankle injury isn't expected to keep him out of action.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer, who is listed as probable on the injury report with an ankle injury, will face the Giants in Week 3 at Giants Stadium. The Giants have allowed the third fewest passing yards of any defense that has played two games so far this season. They've allowed 258 yards (129.0 average) through the air and two touchdowns. They've recorded seven sacks (tied for third) and one interception.
Analysis: This isn't exactly what the doctor ordered for Cincinnati's struggling passing game. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total and T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Consider Palmer a risky start for Week 3. On the bright side, his ankle injury isn't expected to keep him out of action.
News:Carson Palmer walked without a limp Wednesday, an indication that his sprained left ankle is doing fine. The quarterback's sense of optimism was intact as well. Give him one more week. The Cincinnati Bengals have run out of time to get their offense working. They're 0-2 heading into a game at the Giants on Sunday, one that will provide either a U-turn for their season or a plunge into the abyss. "It seems like it's the end of the world to a lot of people," Palmer said Wednesday. "This team has a lot of hope left. We have a lot to play for, a lot of pride. The Giants started 0-2 (last season). A lot can be done from 0-2."
Analysis: So far, the Bengals offense has gone nowhere. An offense that features a Pro Bowl MVP throwing to a pair of Pro Bowl receivers has reached the end zone only once, and that came on a running play. Palmer has the league's lowest passer rating at 37.1 with three interceptions and only 228 yards total. T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Ocho Cinco have combined for 11 catches and 129 yards in two games. Palmer has been at the bull's-eye of it all. The offensive line's struggles have left him exposed to jarring hits. He broke his nose in the third preseason game when he was hit by two players, and sprained his left ankle in the first half of a 24-10 loss to Tennessee on Sunday when two pass rushers got to him again. The line knows it can't afford to let Palmer get beaten up by one of the NFL's top defenses, which has given up only 20 points in two games and already has seven sacks. It's the Giants' stingiest start to a season since 1952. Consider Palmer a No. 2 Fantasy QB for Week 2. It appears as though he will play.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Bengals QB Carson Palmer sprained his ankle in a Week 2 loss to the Titans, but that he should be OK for Week 3 at the Giants.
Analysis: Palmer has been horrible the first two weeks of this season, but the weather on Sunday certainly had a lot to do with his poor numbers in Week 2. Things won't get any easier in Week 3 when Cincy travels to the Meadowlands, but Palmer remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB in all formats.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 16 of 27 passes for only 134 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions in a Week 2 loss to the Titans. Palmer now has only 233 yards passing in his first two games of the season.
Analysis: The wind was whipping on Sunday afternoon in Cincy, but Palmer just didn't look like himself, missing several receivers by a number of yards. While both picks came late in the contest with the Bengals trying to come back from a 17-point deficit, both throws were way off target. Palmer stood on the sidelines at the end of the game as Ryan Fitzpatrick took over on the final drive. Palmer is still a No. 1 Fantasy QB in most formats, but you might want to bench him until he shows some signs of life. In Week 2, the Bengals play at the Giants.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that, in three career games against Tennessee, Bengals QB Palmer is 79-for-107 passing for 802 yards, five touchdowns and two interceptions for a 102.6 passer rating. Cincinnati host the Titans in Week 2.
Analysis: Palmer was downright awful in Week 1, throwing for only 99 yards. Things should pick up in Week 2, but the Titans defense is pretty stout and Palmer will have to be on his game if he wants to keep his nice stats against them. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB simply because of his arm and the WRs at his disposal.
News: Week 1 did not go according to plan for Bengals QB Carson Palmer. He was harrassed all day by the Ravens defense and was limited to 10 of 25 completions for 99 yards. He rushed three times for 15 yards, but did not score and threw an interception. He was also sacked twice.
Analysis: Give it up to the Ravens defense. They covered the Bengals receivers well and put pressure on Palmer. He didn't look comfortable in the pocket and his leading receiver -- T.J. Houshmandzadeh -- had just 44 yards. Palmer had just 194 yards in his 2007 debut against the Ravens, but still managed two scores and no turnovers. Different story in 2008. He will look for better results Week 2 against the Titans and remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (nose) is active and starting Week 1 at Baltimore. He was listed as probable on the injury report and practiced in full all week.
Analysis: Palmer will be wearing a protective visor on his facemask, although his broken nose isn't expected to be a problem. Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to a new RB corps, a suspect offensive line and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best 10 QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1.
News:Carson Palmer will have a new look in the Bengals' season opener at Baltimore. For the first time in his career, he'll be wearing a protective visor on his facemask. Palmer broke his nose in the Bengals' third preseason game and had surgery to realign the nose, and wore a protective brace across the bridge of his nose for a week. The brace is gone, but the nose hasn't completely healed, so he'll wear a clear visor. "The doctors are probably going to tell me I have to wear it for a little bit, so get used to that," Palmer said.
Analysis: Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to a new RB corps, a suspect offensive line and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best 10 QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1.
News:Carson Palmer will have a new look in the Bengals' season opener at Baltimore. For the first time in his career, he'll be wearing a protective visor on his facemask. Palmer broke his nose in the Bengals' third preseason game. He had surgery to realign the nose, and wore a protective brace across the bridge of his nose for a week. The brace is gone, but the nose hasn't completely healed, so he'll wear a clear visor. "The doctors are probably going to tell me I have to wear it for a little bit, so get used to that," Palmer said.
Analysis: Palmer's voice still has a bit of a nasal sound, but he says his nose is feeling good. "It's not as susceptible to being re-broken now that it's had a little over a week to heal," he said. "So it's doing great. I can breathe. I can play." Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. seven interceptions in his career against the Ravens. There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to his RB leaving and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best five or six QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer has completed 171 of 268 passes (63.8 percent) for 2,141 yards with 12 touchdowns vs. 7 interceptions in his career against the Ravens. The Bengals take on Baltimore in Week 1.
Analysis: There are questions abound with Palmer this season thanks to his RB leaving and injuries to both of his key WRs, but the fact remains he is one of the best five or six QBs in the league. Start him in the majority of formats for Week 1.
News: QB Carson Palmer will skip Cincinnati's last preseason game, resting his broken nose. Palmer didn't participate in practice again Tuesday, watching while the rest of the team got ready for its game Thursday night in Indianapolis. Palmer broke his nose and cut his lip on a sack Saturday night during a 13-0 loss to New Orleans. Palmer said he probably would have sat out the final preseason game even if he hadn't broken his nose. He expects to be ready for the opener at Baltimore on Sept. 7. "I mean, I'm healthy, I could play, (it's) just not in the cards this week, I think mainly because we played Saturday and turn around and play again on Thursday," said Palmer, who had a protective brace on his nose and packing in his left nostril. "I just want to be 100 percent and healthy and feeling great going into the Baltimore game."
Analysis: Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but be careful with him this year. With Chad Johnson (shoulder) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring) hurt coming into the season, Palmer could be without his top two weapons or have them not at 100 percent. Still, Palmer will make it work and should be worth starting in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has a broken nose and might not play in the last preseason game Thursday night at Indianapolis, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. Palmer, who sustained a bloody nose and cut lip Saturday night when sacked in the loss to New Orleans, had a procedure done to align a cracked bone in his nose and would be listed as questionable for the Colts. Look for Ryan Fitzpatrick to start at quarterback. But coach Marvin Lewis said Palmer will not even be listed on the injury report for the regular-season opener Sept. 7 at Baltimore. In other words, Palmer will start against the Ravens. But now Palmer's best receiver, Chad Johnson could have a torn labrum. Reports are that Johnson's shoulder injury is worse than originally expected.
Analysis: In three preseason games, Palmer completed 22-of-38 passes (57.9 pct.) for 188 yards (4.9 avg.) with a touchdown and an interception. You can tell that he didn't play much of the preseason with T.J. Houshmandzadeh (hamstring) and Johnson, and if Johnson misses an extended amount of time, that will hurt Palmer's value. Palmer's track record is solid -- he has back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons with 25-plus TDs in each of the last three -- but the 2008 campaign is starting to look rough for Cincinnati with Johnson, Housh and Palmer all already banged up. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but try to draft a good backup for him just in case his 2008 goes awry.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer broke his nose during Saturday night's preseason game against the Saints, but coach Marvin Lewis said he should be ready for the regular season opener. Lewis said in a statement Sunday that Palmer had a small crack in one of his nose bones and it took doctors about 10 minutes to put it back in place. The team said fourth-year quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick will make his first Bengals preseason start if Palmer is unable to play.
Analysis: In three preseason games, Palmer completed 22-of-38 passes (57.9 pct.) for 188 yards (4.9 avg.) with a touchdown and an interception. You can tell that he didn't play much of the preseason with T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson. Palmer's track record is solid -- he has back-to-back 4,000-yard seasons with 25-plus TDs in each of the last three -- but the 2008 campaign is starting to look rough for Cincinnati with Johnson, Housh and Palmer all already banged up. Palmer remains a No. 1 Fantasy QB worth a pick between Rounds 5 and 6, but try to draft a good backup for him just in case his 2008 goes awry.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer got roughed up again during a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints on Saturday night, leaving late in the first half with a bloody nose and a cut lip. Palmer was sacked three times in the first half, the last on a safety blitz by Kevin Kaesviharn with 2 seconds left. He walked off the field with blood spilling down the front of his face, then headed to the locker room with a towel covering his head. He didn't return for the second half. Palmer got knocked to the ground five times during a 27-10 loss to Detroit a week earlier. He was 11-of-16 against the Saints for 105 yards, working with a receiving corps missing Pro Bowl receivers T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson due to injury. Two of their backups also were hurt in the week leading up to the game. The Bengals crossed midfield just once - and by only 1 yard - on six possessions in the first half. They managed only four first downs and 94 total yards while falling behind 10-0.
Analysis: Palmer is fine albeit probably tired of taking a beating. Palmer should be a lock for over 4,000 yards and gets a nudge in touchdown production with Chris Henry's re-arrival. He's still obviously a No. 1 Fantasy passer worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6.
News: QB Carson Palmer's receiving corps got a little better with the Bengals' re-signing WR Chris Henry. Now Palmer has a good third receiver to go to (and target deep) in addition to T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson.
Analysis: Palmer should be a lock for over 4,000 yards and gets a nudge in touchdown production with Henry's re-arrival. Considering Derek Anderson's recent concussion, Palmer now moves slightly ahead in the QB rankings. He's still obviously a No. 1 Fantasy passer worth a pick between Rounds 4 and 6.
News:Carson Palmer didn't have many receiving options in Sunday's preseason game against the Lions and that may have attributed to his poor performance. With T.J. Houshmandzadeh already out, Chad Johnson was injured Sunday early when he attempted to catch a Palmer pass and landed awkwardly on his shoulder. That ball ended up being intercepted and Palmer finished a short night by going 6-of-13 for 50 yards and the pick.
Analysis: We wouldn't worry about Palmer's Fantasy stats in 2008 except for the fact that his receivers are all banged up. We expect Johnson and Houshmandzadeh to be ready for the regular season, however, and Palmer remains an elite No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Playing without running back Rudi Johnson and wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Cincinnati didn't gain a first down until early in the second quarter during Monday's preseason game against the Packers. QB Carson Palmer finished the game 5-for-9 for 33 yards with a touchdown, connecting with tight end Ben Utecht for a 14-yard score early in the second quarter.
Analysis: Fantasy owners shouldn't get overly concerned with Palmer's performance Monday. He did rebound after a slow first quarter to throw a touchdown, but missing two key offensive components didn't help. The Bengals certainly don't want their star quarterback getting hurt, so like most NFL teams, the Bengals are going to limit his touches throughout the preseason. That doesn't change the fact that Palmer remains an elite Fantasy option in 2008. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: The Bengals team site reports QB Carson Palmer and the first offense figure to get somewhere between 10 to 12 snaps to start Monday night's preseason opener in Green Bay.
Analysis: The Bengals certainly don't want their star quarterback getting hurt, so like most NFL teams, are going to limit his touches throughout the preseason. That doesn't change the fact that Palmer remains an elite Fantasy option in 2008. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Receiver Chad Johnson had nothing to say when he reported for training camp Sunday, ending the Cincinnati Bengals' offseason drama with a pillow under his arm and a leave-me-alone look on his face. Now, the Bengals can try to move on. By showing up on time and without complaint, the Pro Bowl receiver brought his teammates some relief from his failed attempts to get traded. Johnson was criticized last season after he berated quarterback Carson Palmer on the sideline following an interception during a loss to New England. As it turned out, the interception was Johnson's fault -- he ran the wrong route.
Analysis: Palmer was gracious Sunday when discussing his relationship with the receiver, who holds or shares nine team records. He had 1,440 yards on catches last season, a club record. "There's nothing to mend," Palmer said. "There's never been any hard feelings between the two of us. He has his stance and whether I feel the same or feel different, it doesn't matter. We're teammates and we've been a great tandem and hopefully we'll continue to be a great tandem for years to come." Palmer is only going to benefit since Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh are both in camp on time. Look for Palmer to remain an elite Fantasy option in 2008 and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer told the team's web site he still hasn't reached his ceiling as a quarterback. He also isn't concerned about what's going to happen with WR Chad Johnson. "I have no idea what's going to happen," Palmer said of Johnson reporting to Thursday's upcoming minicamp. "I like where we're at. Hopefully he comes in and fits in with what we've created here." When pressed on the subject, Palmer added: "What he's not going to do is come in and break apart what we have going right now. That sure as hell is not going to happen."
Analysis: Palmer will benefit if Johnson shows up, but it won't be the end of the world for Palmer if Johnson's not there. He still has T.J. Houshmandzadeh and some younger options in Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell. Look for Palmer to remain an elite Fantasy option in 2008 and consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: The Bengals might need to run more in 2008. Coach Marvin Lewis has said he wants to rely less on the passing game and more on the ground attack, reports the Cincinnati Enquirer. The Bengals had just four wide receivers - Antonio Chatman, Doug Gabriel, Glenn Holt and Marcus Maxwell - on the field at Tuesday's minicamp. Rookie players, including second- and third-round picks Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell - can't report for offseason practices until Friday. The Bengals will have two more practices without the rookies but a total of nine more beginning next week and continuing at a pace of three a week until June. Starters Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh did not attend the voluntary practice Tuesday. Johnson said he will not report, though he has four years remaining on his contract. Houshmandzadeh is doing his offseason training at home in California, which he did a year ago. "We're definitely missing valuable time," QB Carson Palmer said. "We'll get to work whenever they get here. ... The guys who are here are getting valuable experience."
Analysis: As expected, Johnson and Houshmandzadeh will remain absent, possibly until or including training camp. That will hurt Palmer heading into 2008, although not much. Still consider Palmer a No. 1 Fantasy option and one of the top quarterbacks this season. Housmandzadeh is a No. 1 WR, especially heading into a contract year. Johnson has slipped to a No. 2 option and could continue to slide if he is serious about being a holdout.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer set a new career-high in yards with 4,131 in 2007. He also set a new career-high in interceptions with 20. Palmer also threw for 26 touchdowns. It was a frustrating year for Palmer, who expressed that following the season. Coach Marvin Lewis said he understands what Palmer is dealing with and plans to make things better for him in 2008. "As I said at the end of the year and our quarterback indicated to (the media), we weren't satisfied," Lewis said in the Cincinnati Enquirer. "He and I talked the Friday before the Miami game, and we're not satisfied. He and I together will do everything we can to fix it, along with everybody else in this building. He let it go. That's the way it is. That guy, he plays. As I told him, when we got started with him, you put yourself back in position where you play football the way you can play, you're going to win a lot of football games, don't lose the game. We got away from it. He felt like he had so much on his shoulders that he didn't (play perfectly), we'd lose the game, and you paint yourself into the corner."
Analysis: Look for Palmer to get back to his stellar play in 2008. He set a career-high for attempts also with 575, which is not something the Bengals want to do. Palmer should still be one of the first five quarterbacks drafted in most leagues, and consider him a No. 1 option in 2008.
News: Bengals.com reports that QB Carson Palmer left the team's locker room for the last time this season on Monday, but wasn't quiet. Saying that he felt like he was 34 (he just turned 28) and sick to his stomach, Palmer suggested that the team find new coaches to rejuvenate the players. Asked if the current coaches could do it, Palmer said, "I don't think so. ... I don't make those decisions. I play quarterback." Palmer added that the team needed discipline, something all the playoff teams had.
Analysis: Palmer finished the season with 4,131 yards to break his mark of 4,035 set last season. His 373 completions were 28 more than he had last season in setting the franchise record, and he did it on 575 attempts, the second-most since John Stofa took the first official snap for the Bengals in a game in 1968. But Palmer had a down year in 2007 otherwise, throwing 26 touchdowns (he averaged 30 over his last two seasons) with 20 interceptions (a career-high). Assuming his supporting cast remains the same -- especially at wide receiver -- Palmer will still be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2008, albeit out of the top three.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 23 of 32 passes for 316 yards, three touchdowns and one interception Sunday at Miami while compiling a passer rating of 121.4. It was his highest passer rating of the season and just the fifth time he had a rating above 100 all season. He finished the season with 4,131 yards to break his mark of 4,035 set last season. His 373 completions were 28 more than he had last season in setting the franchise record and he did it on 575 attempts, the second-most since John Stofa took the first official snap for the Bengals in a game in 1968.
Analysis: Palmer had a down year in 2007, but he will return next year as a top Fantasy QB. Look for a solid year in 2008 and consider Palmer a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 316 yards with three touchdowns and one interception as Cincinnati finished their season with a 38-25 win over the Dolphins in Miami.
Analysis: We had Palmer ranked high among Fantasy QBs for Week 17, but we didn't expect over 300 yards against a Dolphins pass defense that has allowed the least amount of yards through the air since Week 8. The performance was his first multi-touchdown outing in five December games, but look for Palmer to bounce back nicely next season.
News: The Dolphins pass defense may be ranked fourth in the league, but they've given up 25 scores, tied for fourth-most in the NFL. It's that very Dolphins defense that will host Carson Palmer in Week 17. Palmer's numbers have been way off over the last several weeks, but with his 2007 ending on Sunday, he should look to attack a beaten up and ineffective Dolphins secondary.
Analysis: Expect Palmer to be good for one last outing. He's a No. 1 Fantasy QB in Week 17.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 11-of-21 passing for 115 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions Sunday against the Browns.
Analysis: Palmer has struggled down the stretch and should have taken advantage of this matchup. Palmer will look to finish the season strong in Week 17 at Miami, so consider Palmer a low-end No. 1 option.
News: The Weather Channel and CBS folks on the scene in Cincinnati report that flurries are expected to join strong, blustery winds that will impact the Browns-Bengals Week 16 game. Winds are expected to be between 21 and 33 m.p.h.
Analysis: Think twice before starting Browns and Bengals quarterbacks and receivers (and kickers) as the wind will play havoc with the ball (remember last week's Browns game?). Likewise, expect a lot of work from the Browns and Bengals' running backs this week.
News: In seven career games vs. Cleveland, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has completed 163 of 248 passes for 1,800 yards (257.1 a game) with 19 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. In their meeting earlier this season, Palmer threw for 401 yards and six touchdowns, but he has only six touchdowns in his last five games combined coming into Week 16.
Analysis: Unfortunately for Palmer's owners, you should probably ignore his monster outing from Week 2 when trying set your lineup for Week 16, as the weather in Cincy on Sunday isn't expected to be conducive for a passing game. Check the weather Sunday morning and if things look grim for Palmer, consider starting another decent QB with better playing conditions -- if you have one that is. If not, start Palmer as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB and hope for the best.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw his 100th touchdown pass Week 15 at San Francisco, a 52-yard strike to Chris Henry in the first half, to become the fifth-fastest passer in NFL history to reach the mark. He finished 19-for-31 passing for 251 yards and also ran twice for one yard.
Analysis: Fantasy owners would have liked more than one touchdown pass from a big-ticket player like Palmer, but he hadn't given them any over the last two weeks. As a whole, the Bengals offense is slumping right now, but Palmer and the bunch might find a cure for what ails them in Week 16 against the Browns. Keep Palmer active as a No. 1 Fantasy QB for the potentially high-scoring affair.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has gone back-to-back games without a touchdown for the first time since his second and third career starts back in 2004. However, in 13 career games vs. the NFC, Palmer has thrown 25 touchdowns vs. 15 interceptions. The Bengals play at San Francisco in Week 15.
Analysis: Palmer has been playing in some poor weather conditions over the last couple of weeks, but the forecast is for partly cloudy on Saturday in San Francisco, so Palmer shouldn't encounter too many problems in Week 15. His Fantasy owners who are still alive will be hoping this is the week Palmer finally breaks out of his funk.
News: Expected to thrash St. Louis, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 21-of-29 passes for just 189 yards with no touchdowns and two interceptions vs. the Rams in Week 14. The game was played in the rain, and the Bengals were able to run the ball well (33 planned runs by Cincy). A steady, sometimes driving rain on a 38-degree afternoon made it tough to throw, catch or hold onto the slick ball. "It was tough," said Palmer. "We were expecting a light drizzle, but it was pouring. I'm just thankful it let up at the end and gave both teams a chance to throw the ball."
Analysis: Palmer's big arm has escaped him of late, costing him and his receivers big Fantasy stats in the process. Assuming he doesn't play in poor weather again next week, Palmer should have a good game at San Francisco in Week 15.
News: Three weeks ago, Carson Palmer threw four interceptions in a Bengals loss to the Cardinals. He responded with a three-TD win over Tennessee. Last week, Palmer had another stinker, failing to throw a touchdown at Pittsburgh. The Bengals played on a muddy field, slowing down the speed of the game, which Palmer admitted later to not accounting for. Palmer is expected to rebound once again in Week 14 when the Rams come to Cincy. St. Louis has allowed 17 passing touchdowns this season and at least two passing scores in four of their last six games.
Analysis: Palmer should feast on the Rams' secondary in Week 14. Start him without any reservations in the coming week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had one of his more forgettable games Week 13 at Pittsburgh. He completed only 17 of 44 passes for 183 yards, going without a touchdown or an interception. An off-and-on rain no doubt hindered his throwing, as several of his passes uncharacteristically sailed on him. He also ran twice for minus two yards.
Analysis: Hey, at least he didn't turn the ball over. Palmer had thrown five touchdown passes in his last two games, but he has underperformed a bit from a Fantasy perspective this season. We still say he's an advisable start more often than not, though, and he has a great matchup Week 14 against the Rams.
News: In his past two games vs. Pittsburgh, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has completed 43 of 69 passes for 456 yards with three touchdowns and no interceptions. In the earlier meeting this season, Palmer was 23-of-31 for 205 and a score.
Analysis: Palmer will likely have to deal with rain, cold temperatures and a questionable playing surface in Pittsburgh on Sunday, not to mention a ridiculously tough Steelers defense. Palmer is a very risky play in Week 13, but if you drafted him and are in a playoff race, you're not likely to bench him at this point. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB, but if you're lucky enough to have a QB with better potential this week, then go ahead and bench Palmer.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 32-of-38 passes for 283 yards for three touchdowns vs. Tennessee in Week 12. Palmer did throw one pick in the game. He had a high completion percentage for much of the game and was locked in on Chad Johnson, who caught a dozen of Palmer's passes.
Analysis: Palmer's played consistently well this season even though he hasn't posted Brady-esque numbers week in and week out. With over 3,000 yards and 21 passing touchdowns already this season, expect Palmer to keep his foot on the gas at Pittsburgh in Week 13.
News: It used to be bad news when a quarterback took on the Titans thanks to DT Albert Haynesworth and CB Nick Harper. But those players have missed time, and in the last two weeks, quarterbacks opposing the Titans have totaled three passing scores. That's peanuts compared to what Carson Palmer and the Bengals are capable of. Palmer has thrown for at least 270 yards in each of his last three games with four total touchdowns. The Bengals host the Titans in Week 12.
Analysis: Assuming Haynesworth and Harper are still out (and WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh is in), Palmer should find a way to post solid stats at home in Week 12. Continue to treat him as a No. 1 Fantasy QB worthy of starting in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer became the first QB in 14 games to throw for over 300 yards on the Cardinals in Cincinnati's 35-27 loss to Arizona in Week 11. He finished with 329 yards and two touchdowns, but also threw four interceptions. He also ran twice for negative-one yard.
Analysis: Palmer now has 18 touchdowns and 14 interceptions this season, which is pretty pathetic for him when you consider he only had 13 picks all last year. Most of you likely spent a high draft on the former USC Trojan, so you won't be benching him at any point this season, especially with the weapons at his disposal. Feel free to start him in almost every formats against the Titans in Week 12.
News: In Week 11, Carson Palmer and the Bengals host the Cardinals in what should be a classic shootout between two teams with strong offenses and suspect defenses. Although the Cardinals pass defense ranks 10th in the NFL, they have allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season. On the road this season, Arizona's been pretty good against the pass, but there's a reason for it: Arizona has played road games against the 49ers, Ravens, Redskins and Buccaneers -- four teams with limited pass offenses. When Arizona played at St. Louis, a pass-oriented team, with Gus Frerotte at quarterback, the Rams threw three touchdowns.
Analysis: With the Bengals' passing offense taking a break last week, look for Cincinnati to bounce back at the expense of the Cardinals, who gave up two touchdowns last week to the Lions at their place. Palmer remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-34 passing for 271 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions Sunday against the Ravens. He also had two carries for minus-2 yards.
Analysis: Palmer didn't throw any touchdowns, which hurt Fantasy owners. Look for Palmer to bounce back in Week 11 against Arizona. Consider Palmer a No. 1 option.
News: In his last game at Baltimore, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed only 12 of 26 passes for 194 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions in a 26-20 loss. The two teams meet for the second time this season in Week 10.
Analysis: Palmer has been OK this season, but he really hasn't shined as all his owners expected him to. He has only gone over the 250-yard passing mark four times this season and Baltimore's defense ranks 10th in the league in passing yards allowed. Still, Palmer remains a nice Fantasy QB option with T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson at his disposal and is a top-five option in Week 10.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 271 yards with two touchdowns and an interception on 29-of-39 passing in Cincinnati's 33-21 loss to the Bills in Week 9. He hit 11 different receivers in the game.
Analysis: Palmer's stats were pretty good as usual in Week 9, but he would surely trade all his touchdowns for wins at this point. Palmer remains one of the elite Fantasy QBs in the league and is a must-start against the Ravens in Week 10.
News: Cincinnati QB Carson Palmer will head to Buffalo this week looking for his eighth straight game with a touchdown pass to open the season.
Analysis: As much as Palmer has been a decent Fantasy option this year, his team has only been decent at losing. He has only thrown for over 235 yards in one of his last four games, but has a very appetizing matchup in the Bills, who rank 29th in stopping the pass. As per usual, he ranks third this week behind Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, and is a must-start in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-31 passing for 205 yards and one touchdown Sunday against the Steelers. He also had one carry for 2 yards.
Analysis: Palmer is a No. 1 QB and should look to have a dominant game Week 9 at Buffalo. Consider Palmer a great start against the Bills.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has thrown nine touchdowns vs. only two interceptions in his last three meetings vs. the Steelers. The division rivals play each other in Week 8.
Analysis: Palmer has thrown at least one touchdown in every game this season, but has also thrown nine picks, which will not please his owners in leagues that punish interceptions. Still, he's the third-best QB in the league by quite a margin over his chasers and should start in every league in Week 8.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 14-of-21 passing for 226 yards, one touchdown and one interception Sunday against the Jets.
Analysis: Palmer is a No. 1 QB and should be considered a must-start in all leagues. He has a tough matchup against the Steelers in Week 8, but you can't bench Palmer because he's too good.
News: Carson Palmer is sorry. Sorry that he blew up at receiver Chad Johnson for running the wrong route. Sorry that he's lost his cool during the Cincinnati Bengals' awful start. Sorry that his easygoing temperament has failed him on the field. Not that anyone blames him. The Pro Bowl MVP has vented his anger in the last two games, something quite out of character for the laid-back quarterback from California. A 1-4 start will do that. "I think everybody's a little bit on edge around here," Palmer said. "We have boards in the offensive and defensive rooms, and every time you look up at them and see our production and our record there, you're just naturally on edge because you have such high expectations. I have lost my cool a couple of times, and I apologize for that. I'll try to contain myself and be calm."
Analysis: Usually, Palmer is the club's voice of reason during tough times. When things go bad, he acknowledges the problems and accepts a bigger share of the blame than necessary. When teammates squabble, he tries to restore the peace. That has been a big reason why he has been so successful in his career. He has kept his cool in high-pressure situations. Despite a less than stellar start by Palmer's standards, he heads into Week 7 against the Jets as a must-start Fantasy option. Playing against the No. 27 ranked passing defense might just put him on the right track.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer had a decent passing day Week 6 at Kansas City, completing 26 of 43 passes for 320 yards. However, playing without right tackle Willie Anderson (knee injury) and left tackle Levi Jones (benching), Palmer never got comfortable in the pocket as the Chiefs threw him to the turf five times. He did connect on two touchdown passes -- a 42-yard strike to T.J. Houshmandzadeh in the first quarter and a 30-yarder to Houshmandzadeh in the fourth -- but he also threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. He ran once for two yards.
Analysis: Palmer remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues as he still managed to recover late Sunday from an otherwise unsatisfactory statistical performance. The Jets come to town in Week 7, and they entered Week 6 with the 25th-ranked pass defense.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer has had a bye week off to cool down from his shouting match with WR Chad Johnson in Week 4 and will be facing a tough Chiefs passing defense in Week 6. In last season's meeting between the two teams, Palmer completed 13 of 19 passes for 127 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer will have a new right tackle on Sunday in the form of Stacy Andrews, as Willie Anderson has been ruled out with a knee injury. Andrews started the first three games this season at left guard and Palmer isn't worried about the switch, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. "I'm as confident as anyone in Stacy," Palmer, who is our second-ranked QB for Week 6, said.
News: Carson Palmer completed 21-of-35 passes for 234 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Week 4 against the Patriots. He seemed to be frustrated most of the evening and even had an animated conversation with receiver Chad Johnson to end the first half. "I made a mistake," said Palmer. "I got on Chad, but I made a mistake. I lost my cool. I threw a ball I shouldn't have thrown."
Analysis: The Bengals will have two weeks to get it together and try and rebound in Week 6 at Kansas City once they return from their bye. Despite below average numbers by his standards in Week 4, he remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: This year, Bengals QB Carson Palmer has thrown 54 of his 80 completions and seven of his nine touchdowns to WRs Chad Johnson (25 catches and three TDs) and T.J. Houshmandzadeh(29 catches and four TDs).
Analysis: One of Palmer's touchdown passes went to Rudi Johnson in Week 2. With Rudi Johnson (hamstring) out against the Patriots, expect Palmer to have throw more passes. He is a No. 1 Fantasy QB.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 27-of-43 passes for 342 yards, but managed just one touchdown, two interceptions and minus-1 yard on the ground at Seattle in Week 3. The Bengals had four turnovers -- two by Palmer and two by his receivers, though only one came on an offensive play. Palmer's string of consecutive games with at least two touchdowns ended at four.
Analysis: Palmer was sacked twice despite playing behind an O-line that was tooled with throughout the game. Fantasy owners should be OK with Palmer's performance this week, but next week's game vs. New England could be a much different story. Still, he's worth starting in all leagues.
News: In his 10 career starts against teams from the NFC, Bengals QB Carson Palmer is 8-2 all-time, with the two losses coming in his last four games against the conference. In his 10 starts, he averaged 239.7 yards, 2.2 touchdowns and 0.7 interceptions.
Analysis: It's unlikely that Palmer will throw for six touchdowns this week against the Seahawks like he did in Week 2 against the Browns, but he should have a nice outing in the Northwest. He remains a must-start in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 33-of-50 for 401 yards and threw six touchdowns and two interceptions in Cincinnati's 51-45 loss to the Cleveland Browns in Week 2.
Analysis: Palmer was always going to be a must-start against the Browns, but not many people would have guessed he would put up such monster numbers in a loss to Cleveland of all teams. Palmer threw touchdowns to four different players, including two each to Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmanzadeh, and remains an elite Fantasy quarterback for Cincinnati's Week 3 game at Seattle.
News: In two games last year against the Browns, QB Carson Palmer threw five touchdowns with 627 passing yards with three interceptions. He topped 275 yards in both games and has hit that number in three of his last four against the Browns. Palmer also has attempted at least 27 passes in every game he's played against the Browns, completing at least 60 percent of his passes in four of six tries.
Analysis: Palmer may have finished with only 194 yards passing against the Ravens in Week 1, but don't expect him to repeat that meager total in Week 2 against the woeful Browns. Palmer is one of the top three QBs in the league and is a must-start every week.
News: Playing a stellar Ravens defense in Week 1, Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 20 of 32 passes for 194 yards. He also tossed two touchdown passes -- one to Chad Johnson and one to T.J. Houshmandzadeh.
Analysis: The touchdowns salvaged an otherwise lackluster game for Palmer's Fantasy owners. Don't sweat the low yardage too much. The difference between the Ravens and the Browns -- Palmer's Week 2 opponent -- is like night and day. Keep him active in all leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange reports the Ravens open the season Monday night at Cincinnati, and that means all eyes will be on Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer. He is one of the few quarterbacks that show no fear against the Ravens defense. Since rallying the Bengals from a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit in Baltimore, Palmer is 4-1 against the Ravens. When it comes to this AFC North rivalry, Palmer is the most accurate barometer of how the game will end. In his four wins over the Ravens since 2004, he has thrown nine touchdowns and two interceptions. The only loss came when he threw more interceptions (two) than touchdowns (one).
Analysis: Few quarterbacks have the poise and confidence to attack the Ravens. Even Peyton Manning seems intimidated at times against the aggressive Baltimore defense. In his past three games against the Ravens, Manning has a quarterback rating of 79.2. Compare that to Palmer's 108.2 rating against Baltimore in five games. The Ravens have only sacked Palmer nine times in five games, but they could put more heat on him in the opener. Right tackle Willie Anderson hasn't played in the preseason because of a heal injury, and the Bengals are undecided at left tackle. They will either play Levi Jones, who vented his frustrations over playing time, or Andrew Whitworth. With these question marks on the edges, the Ravens might be able to attack more. If you drafted Palmer, you probably can't afford to bench him. Just lower your expectations for him this week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer struggled against the Baltimore Ravens last year, and, in Week 1, he gets to face them at home Monday night. He had 428 yards passing, two touchdowns and two interceptions in two games against Baltimore in 2006.
Analysis: The Ravens also led the NFL last year with 28 interceptions and were No. 2 with 60 sacks. If you drafted Palmer, you probably can't afford to bench him. Just lower your expectations for him this week.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 27-for-43 (62.8 percent) passing in the preseason, throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns. He finished with a 96.1 QB rating.
Analysis: The numbers are not that important in the preseason, but they were pretty good. If that was his line in Week 1 vs. Baltimore, his Fantasy owners would be happy. We view Palmer as the second best quarterback in Fantasy, behind only Peyton Manning. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues.
News: After a sluggish start to the preseason by the offense, the Cincinnati Bengals finally showed some life with the ball. QB Carson Palmer tossed an 8-yard touchdown pass to Chad Johnson and a 7-yarder to Daniel Coats, the first two touchdowns of the preseason for the first-team offense. "I thought it was OK, but we're nowhere near where we want to be," Johnson said.
Analysis: Palmer finally had a decent outing, completing 15-of-22 for 136 yard and two scores. Don't sweat his poor preseason -- continue to view Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB with a bullet. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues.
News: Carson Palmer played four series and was a pedestrian 5-for-10 for 41 yards with a sack and fumble that set up the Saints' second touchdown in the Bengals' second preseason game.
Analysis: Palmer had a rough outing, but only played four series. Don't sweat this poor effort -- continue to view Palmer as a No. 1 Fantasy QB with a bullet. He's worth a pick starting in late Round 2 in all leagues.
News: Carson Palmer completed seven of 10 passes for 93 yards in Thursday's preseason opener against in Detroit to set up two field goals on his only two drives, totaling 121 yards. WRs Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh each had a pair of receptions from their star quarterback.
Analysis: Palmer looked to be in midseason form and that's a good sign for the Cincinnati Bengals and Fantasy owners in early drafts. The only concern for Palmer might be his return to a knee brace, but he certainly didn't appear to have any difficulty on this night. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy quarterback in all leagues.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the surgically-repaired left knee of QB Carson Palmer was wrapped in the brace he wore throughout the 2006 season. So far in training camp 2007, Palmer had worn a fabric sleeve on the knee or nothing at all. So the return of the brace, three days after he participated in the live scrimmage and two days following the mock game, which he missed, was noteworthy. "Nothing's wrong," Palmer said while signing autographs for fans on the field after practice. "I'm going to wear it all year, and I'm just getting used to it again."
Analysis: This shouldn't be a cause for concern, but keep an eye on Palmer and hope he doesn't have a setback with his knee. He is a No. 1 Fantasy QB in 2007.
News: The high-tech, hinged knee brace hangs from a hook in Carson Palmer's locker, a symbol of how far the quarterback has come from his career-threatening injury. A year and a half later, he doesn't even need a brace. Palmer is back to full health and playing at full speed during the Cincinnati Bengals' weekend minicamp. Palmer tore ligaments, dislocated his knee cap and suffered cartilage damage during a playoff loss to Pittsburgh at the end of the 2005 season, the Bengals' first playoff appearance since 1990. He was limited in minicamp and training camp last year, and wasn't fully back to form until the middle of the season - still way ahead of schedule.
Analysis: Palmer threw for a club-record 4,035 yards last season and was MVP of the Pro Bowl. He has spent the offseason working out with his receivers, trying to get their timing down so they can get off to a fast start. His knee is such an afterthought that he isn't wearing the precautionary brace for minicamp this weekend. "I'll definitely be wearing it for games," Palmer said. "But in (workouts) if I'm not going to get hit, there's no need to have it on." The knee is no longer an issue. And Palmer, which he proved last year, is a No. 1 QB option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 20-of-38 passing for 251 yards and two touchdowns against Pittsburgh. He also had two carries for minus-3 yards.
Analysis: Palmer will be a No. 1 QB again in 2007.
News: A year ago, Bengals QB Carson Palmer had everything going his way. The Cincinnati Bengals had already clinched their first winning record and first playoff berth since 1990. With three days left in the year, the team rewarded him with a mammoth contract extension that could keep him around through 2014. At that moment, everything was falling into place for the former Heisman Trophy winner. Then, it all fell apart. His major knee injury during a playoff loss to Pittsburgh started months of physical pain, self-doubt and close scrutiny. When Kimo von Oelhoffen rolled into Palmer's lower left leg on his first pass, two of his ligaments were shredded and his kneecap dislocated. The Bengals lost the playoff game 31-17, and their future was clouded by doubts whether Palmer would ever be the same. He heard them as soon as the anesthetic started clearing from his brain. He listened to some, ignored others, and started a rehabilitation that went much faster and smoother than the norm. He was back for the season opener, though it took him about half the season to get back into form. Heading into the final regular-season game against Pittsburgh, Palmer needed 176 yards to break Boomer Esiason's team record for a season and 216 to become a 4,000-yard passer. The only reminder of the injury is a protective brace that protrudes from his uniform sock.
Analysis: Palmer has been great again this season and should finish out the year with a solid game against Pittsburgh in Week 17. Palmer is a No. 1 QB in 2007 as well.
News: Bengals.com reports that with a 216-yard game vs. Pittsburgh in Week 17, Carson Palmer will become the first quarterback in Cincinnati to ever throw for 4,000 yards in a single season.
Analysis: That's a pretty solid accomplishment for Palmer, who may not be the best Fantasy passer out there but one who, for coming off of major knee surgery, is one of the top five. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB not only vs. the Steelers in Week 17, but also in 2007 league play.
News: Carson Palmer said his shoulder felt fine after Sunday's game against Denver. Forced to answer questions this week about a sore shoulder suffered in Monday night’s loss to Indianapolis, Palmer didn’t necessarily put the issue to rest with his performance when he completed 21-of-40 for 209 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Palmer missed Chris Henry and Chad Johnson on deep balls when the receivers had gotten behind the coverage. He had T.J. Houshmandzadeh open in the end zone on Cincinnati’s first possession but overthrew him and was intercepted. Palmer was intercepted again when he threw slightly behind Chad Johnson and All-Pro cornerback Champ Bailey picked off the pass. "When playing against the best in the league, you have to be on the money," Palmer said in Monday's The Columbus Dispatch.
Analysis: Palmer should be fine after throwing 40 passes. Consider him a No. 1 option for Week 17 against the Steelers.
News: Carson Palmer (shoulder) completed 21-of-40 for 209 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Week 16 at Denver.
Analysis: Palmer, who missed practice time due to a shoulder injury, was fine despite the flying snow in Denver. The No. 1 Fantasy quarterback will look to finish up strong in Week 17 against Pittsburgh.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer fully participated in practice Thursday, saying his passing shoulder was fine. Palmer was listed as probable for the game Sunday in Denver. "Everything's great," he said before practice. "I'm going to practice today, I'm going to play on Sunday. I'm going to practice on Friday. Everything's good." Palmer was listed on the team's injury report this week for the first time all season. He didn't fully participate in practice Wednesday, resting a stiff right shoulder. Palmer was sacked four times and hit hard several other times during a 34-16 loss in Indianapolis on Monday night. He landed on the shoulder when he was sacked and fumbled on the last play of the first half. He made an unexpectedly fast recovery from reconstructive knee surgery last January, and was ready for the opening game of the season. Palmer has been among the league's top passers in the second half of the season, and was picked for the Pro Bowl this week.
Analysis: It looks like Palmer will be fine for Sunday against Denver. Consider him a No. 1 QB option.
News: The Bengals denied a report on profootballtalk.com that QB Carson Palmer had possibly sustained a torn rotator cuff. "Any reports of a serious structural injury are unfounded," Bengals public relations director Jack Brennan said in The Columbus Dispatch. Palmer is listed on the injury report as not practicing, but that can be misleading. A player is so designated if he misses part or all of 11-on-11 drills. Brennan said Palmer did participate in other drills. "He was rested a little bit (Wednesday) and they expect he will fully practice tomorrow," Brennan said. Wedneday morning, the quarterback brushed off the suggestion that he took a beating against the Colts. "I’ll be fine," Palmer said. "I feel good today. I don’t feel too banged up. I don’t feel I got hit too hard or anything out of the ordinary."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Palmer's status before setting your lineup. If he plays, consider him a No. 1 option against Denver in Week 16.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was held out of practice on Wednesday with a shoulder problem. The injury is not described as serious. Palmer is probable for Week 16 at Denver and is expected to practice on Thursday.
Analysis: For now, consider this news a non-issue and be prepared to start Palmer as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy QB at Denver in Week 16.
News: Carson Palmer completed just 14-of-28 passes for 176 yards, no touchdowns and no interception in Week 15 at Indianapolis. He also completed a career-low three passes in the first half.
Analysis: Palmer and the Cincinnati offense will look to rebound in Week 16 at Denver in what is a key battle for playoff positioning in the AFC. He might not have that great of a game against a still dangerous Denver defense at home. Remember, weather might also be a factor in Colorado at this time of the year.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer completed 20-of-28 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns in a Week 14 win over the Raiders. He did however throw three interceptions.
Analysis: Outside of three pretty athletic interceptions by the Raiders, Palmer had another good day at the ballpark. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy QB for Week 15 against Colts.
News: Carson Palmer completed 21-of-32 passes for 234 yards, one touchdowns and no interceptions in Week 13 against Baltimore.
Analysis: Palmer will look for bigger and better things in Week 14 against Oakland in a potentially high-scoring contest.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer, who threw for only 194 yards and was intercepted twice in the first meeting between with the Ravens, has vowed to have a better performance vs. Baltimore in Week 13 after watching film of the contest. "When I say it hurts, I mean it literally hurts watching what we did against them the last time," said Palmer. "We didn't play well at all. I feel we've come a long way and made a lot of progress offensively. They'll be seeing a different unit, a unit they've seen in years past but not in this past game."
Analysis: Palmer should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy QB for this game despite the Ravens tough defense. Weather may also be a factor in this game, but Palmer is too good of a player to sit at this crucial point in the Fantasy season.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 25-of-32 passing for 275 yards, three touchdowns and one interception against Cleveland. He also had one carry for 2 yards.
Analysis: Palmer continues to be one of the top Fantasy QBs this year. Consider him a No. 1 QB despite a tough matchup against Baltimore in Week 13.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for 275 yards off 14-for-22 passing in Week 11 at New Orleans. He added three touchdowns, all to WR Chad Johnson.
Analysis: Palmer found Johnson early and often for touchdowns of 41, 60 and four yards. That's back-to-back big games for Palmer who looks to be as comfortable as he's been since his knee injury. Consider him a great start in all leagues for Week 12 at Cleveland.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 31-of-42 passing for 440 yards and three touchdowns with a fumble lost vs. San Diego in Week 10. It's Palmer's first 400-yard game in his career.
Analysis: Those who have stuck with Palmer this season were rewarded in Week 10. Consider him a starting option when he plays at New Orleans in Week 11.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer threw for only 195 yards in Week 9 at Baltimore. He finished 12-for-26 passing with one touchdown and two interceptions.
Analysis: Palmer was up against a very tough Ravens defenses and had a couple of bounces go against him. He'll have a very good chance to bounce back in Week 10 vs. San Diego.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer posted his first 100.0-plus passer rating of the season on Sunday, raising his season's rating to 93.4. He has 11 touchdown passes against just four interceptions and is completing 62.3 percent of his passes. But there's a stat that matters even more to the fourth-year quarterback, and one that he takes responsibility for -- the team's 4-3 record. "There are a number of plays I'd love to have back, a number of instances in games I'd love to have back," Palmer said. "If your quarterback plays great and he goes out there and does his job and doesn't miss everything and is 100 percent on everything, you're going to win your football games. We're 4-3. I haven't been 100 percent, I haven't been perfect (and) I haven't played great football. You can put all the blame ... on me." Maybe the Ravens, though they traditionally have one of the NFL's top defenses (third this season overall) bring out the best in Palmer. In his past three games against Baltimore, where the Bengals play Sunday, Palmer has completed 76.1 percent of his passes for 932 yards, eight touchdowns and two interceptions for a 130.2 rating. In the 2004 game at Baltimore, Palmer rallied the Bengals from a 20-3 third-quarter deficit for a 27-26 victory.
Analysis: Consider Palmer a must-start this week against the Ravens, who have played well on defense but also given up a lot of big plays.
News: Things aren't pleasant these days in Cincinnati, where the Bengals' subpar offense has created a lot of grumbling. Quarterback Carson Palmer tried to end it Wednesday by putting the problem in perspective. He blamed himself. Although Palmer defied expectations by returning only seven months after reconstructive knee surgery, he hasn't been as good as he was before the injury. His numbers are down, his form is off, and his offense is struggling. "If the quarterback plays great and he goes out there and does his job and doesn't miss everything and is 100 percent on everything, you're going to win your football games," Palmer said. "We're 4-3. I haven't been 100 percent, I haven't been perfect, I haven't played great football. You can put all the blame you want on me."
Analysis: Palmer's numbers aren't too bad on the season. He has 11 touchdown passes and has only thrown four interceptions. He has a QB rating of 93.4 and passed for 1,684 yards. Palmer is just being tough on himself and is not happy with his team's record. As far as his Fantasy value is concerned, he is a must-start player as long as he is healthy. The Bengals play the Ravens in Week 9.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 24-of-36 passing for 266 yards and two touchdowns against Atlanta. Palmer also lost a fumble.
Analysis: Palmer is a must-start every week. The Bengals face Baltimore in Week 9.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 23-of-39 passing for 240 yards and two touchdowns against Carolina. He also had one carry for 6 yards.
Analysis: Palmer played well despite a banged-up offensive line. Consider Palmer a good start in Week 8 against Atlanta.
News: The Bengals' sputtering offense took another hit Monday when left tackle Levi Jones learned he likely will need arthroscopic knee surgery, sidelining him for a rough stretch of Cincinnati's schedule. Jones hurt his left knee during the first half of a 14-13 loss in Tampa that stripped the luster off of the defending AFC North champions. The offense hasn't played to expectations since center Rich Braham suffered a significant knee injury during the second game of the season.
Analysis: Now, the player who protects Carson Palmer's blind side will be out for several weeks, with some of the league's top defenses lined up to take their best shot. "It is going to be a tough month," Jones said. Rookie Andrew Whitworth is expected to start in Jones' absence. QB Carson Palmer and RB Rudi Johnson remain must-starts in all Fantasy leagues, but don't be surprised to see the Cincinnati offense continue to struggle with Jones on the mend.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 24-of-37 passing for 261 yards and a touchdown at Tampa Bay in Week 6. He started very slow, as did his receivers, but a big second half put his stats over the edge despite the loss.
Analysis: Palmer has fallen out of favor with a few Fantasy owners (just one 300-yard game and one four TD game), but most of them are sticking with him. His schedule is about to get really dangerous, though: vs. Carolina next week, then vs. Atlanta, at Baltimore and vs. San Diego. Don't expect colossal numbers from Palmer on a consistent basis over the next four games.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will try to lift the Bengals' offense out of its doldrums in Week 6 at Tampa ay. He threw for 245 yards against New England in Week 4, but had no touchdown passes while being sacked four times and losing two fumbles. Palmer has been sacked 15 times, four fewer than all of last season. A re-tooled offensive line, as well as the lack of a consistent running game or second receiver behind Chad Johnson have caused problems the team has yet to overcome regularly. "The fact that he's getting hit more and the pressure has an effect on any quarterback," Cincinnati offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski said. "What we've got to do is do a better job of protecting him to allow him to do it."
Analysis: Palmer should definitely start for Fantasy owners in Week 6. If you own him, start him.
News: QB Carson Palmer failed to throw a touchdown in Week 4 as the Bengals were routed 38-13 by the Patriots. Palmer completed 20-of-35 passes for 245 yards. He made two key mistakes in the fourth quarter by fumbling the ball twice thwarting any comeback attempts.
Analysis: Palmer had a pretty good week despite the mistakes and throwing no touchdowns. The Bengals are on a bye in Week 5, but return to action in Week 6 against Tampa Bay.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 18-of-26 passing for 193 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. Palmer also was sacked six times.
Analysis: Palmer played against the Steelers for the first time since hurting his knee in last year's playoff game and looked solid. He threw two touchdowns to Chris Henry and two to T.J. Houshmandzadeh. Palmer is a must-start every week and should do well in Week 4 against New England.
News: According to CincinnatiBengals.com, head coach Marvin Lewis has already made the decision that WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (heel) will make his 2006 debut on Sunday at Pittsburgh. Houshmandzadeh (heel) was upgraded to probable after practicing with the team on Friday.
Analysis: Expect Housh to give it a go on Sunday. Chris Henry will reportedly get the start, but Houshmandzadeh will likely get into the action early, giving QB Carson Palmer another target downfield. Use him as a No. 3 receiver in deeper formats, but we recommend reserving him if you have a healthier alternative you trust because it will be his first game action of the regular season and it will come against a stingy Steelers defense.
News: Steelers coach Bill Cowher's admiration for Bengals QB Carson Palmer has grown in watching him comeback from knee surgery. "I am amazed, really, to be honest with you," Cowher said. "No. 1, just watching him go through it, listening to him this whole offseason, just the determination he had to be back out there. ... And then just watching him play these first two games, he looks like he just kind of picked up where he left off. I think it's just a great feel-good story. It couldn't happen to a better guy. He's good for the league. He's certainly a quality player at his position. I'm happy for him. At the same time, he's going to make it tough for us because when he's out there, he runs that show pretty well."
Analysis: Palmer showed he is back to being a No. 1 QB with his performance against Cleveland last week where he passed for 352 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. While the Steelers defense is tougher than the Browns, you cannot put Palmer on the bench.
News: Carson Palmer finished 24-for-40 with 352 yards in Week 2 vs. Cleveland. He threw two TD passes in the game, but was also intercepted twice.
Analysis: Palmer was moving slowly after the second-best passing day of his career. It was Palmer's sixth 300-yard game and the second-highest total of his career, the latest piece of proof that he has fully recovered from a knee injury. He'll face Pittsburgh on the road in Week 3, but should still be considered a good start in all leagues despite the tough matchup.
News: Carson Palmer was 17-for-25 for 242 yards with two TD passes and one interception in the first half of the Bengals' Week 2 matchup vs. Cleveland.
Analysis: While last week's offensive gameplan seemed to be focused on the running game, the Bengals are clearly trying to throw the ball against a weak Browns defense.
News: Carson Palmer played the entire game at Kansas City in Week 1, some of it on a rain-slick grass field, and came out with a healthy left knee. No setbacks. Palmer dropped back to throw just 20 times; he was sacked once. He was 13-for-19 passing for 127 yards, no interceptions and no touchdowns. The best news Sunday for the Bengals, besides the victory, was how the Bengals didn't have to rely on Palmer and the pass offense to win the game. On an 88-yard touchdown drive, the Bengals employed the no-huddle effectively, and Palmer was 5-for-5 passing on the possession.
Analysis: Palmer gets to play at home next and enjoy going up against an improved but still challenged Cleveland defense. He remains a must-start option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: In his first game back from a knee injury, QB Carson Palmer was 13 of 19 for 127 yards passing.
Analysis: While the numbers weren't great, Palmer showed he is ready to go. Consider him a No. 1 QB option next week against Cleveland.
News: QB Carson Palmer is ready for the season-opener against Kansas City. If his performance in the preseason was any indication, he's still on track to becoming one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks. Palmer threw for four touchdowns and 213 yards in less than three quarters of action against Green Bay and Indianapolis. He also took three hits and bounced back each time against the Packers. With Palmer under center, where he threw for a franchise record 32 touchdown passes with just 12 interceptions last season, the Bengals have a much better chance of repeating as AFC North champions or at least making a second consecutive playoff trip. "Carson has gone out in preseason and performed his job as though nothing ever occurred," coach Marvin Lewis said. "That's why you take your hat off to him. We have a great guy at the helm of our football team here. He's kind of unflappable. He makes other guys raise their game to his level."
Analysis: Palmer is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. Expect a big week to start the season.
News: In two preseason games, Carson Palmer (knee) went 13-of-20 for 173 yards and four touchdowns, leaving him with a gaudy passer rating of 131.9. Even though he's still working some out some kinks, he's good enough at this point to have the Bengals thinking of another title. "We were fortunate to finish out the preseason undefeated," Palmer said. "Hopefully this momentum will carry us through the first four games, into the bye, and on through the rest of the season."
Analysis: Palmer's convincing performance last Monday night prompted coach Marvin Lewis to select him as the starter for the opener Sept. 10 at Kansas City, which was Palmer's goal all along. His stock is rising and he should officially be considered a must-start QB in all leagues. He is capable of putting up Manningesque numbers if he can stay healthy.
News: Carson Palmer and Chad Johnson hooked up for three completions before the Bengals pulled their starters, leading the Bengals to a 20-3 victory over the Indianapolis Colts' backups. Johnson caught three passes for 59 yards, although he lost a first-quarter fumble, and Palmer finished 4-of-6 for 73 yards with one TD in his second exhibition game back from a devastating knee injury sustained in January's playoff loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Palmer said he wanted to shake off some lingering rust, and the Bengals (4-0) gave him nine plays to do it. His convincing performance on Monday night prompted coach Marvin Lewis to select him as the starter for the opener Sept. 10 at Kansas City, which was Palmer's goal all along. His stock is rising and he should probably be the second QB selected in all Fantasy leagues. He is capable of putting up Manningesque numbers if he can stay healthy.
News: Carson Palmer reported no problems with his surgically rebuilt left knee on Thursday, another indication the quarterback will be ready for the season opener. Palmer threw three touchdowns Monday night in a triumphant return from his knee surgery. The only question following a 48-17 preseason victory over Green Bay was how the knee would react in the next few days. So far, it's fine. After the team's day off, Palmer returned to practice Thursday and got ready to play in the Bengals' final preseason game Friday night in Indianapolis. There was no limp and no hesitation as he led the offense through a drill during the part of practice that was open to the media. "It felt great," Palmer said. "There were no side effects or anything. The knee held up like we expected. It feels great today, and it felt great yesterday."
Analysis: His convincing performance on Monday night prompted coach Marvin Lewis to select him as the starter for the opener Sept. 10 at Kansas City, which was Palmer's goal all along. His stock is rising and he should probably be the second QB selected in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Carson Palmer (knee surgery) made his preseason debut in Monday's game against the Packers and he was absolutely superb. He completed 9-of-14 for 140 yards and three touchdowns before departing late in the second quarter.
Analysis: Palmer completed touchdowns to T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Tab Perry and Reggie Kelly and appeared to be in midseason form. For Fantasy owners who nervously selected him on Draft Day or skipped him in favor of more sure options, it looks like he is back and 100 percent. There will still be worries about his knee heading into the regular season, but he quelled a lot of those fears on Monday night.
News: Coach Marvin Lewis doesn't have a firm plan for how much Carson Palmer will play on Monday night in the quarterback's first game back from reconstructive knee surgery. Starting quarterbacks usually play at least a half of the third preseason game to help the offense get in sync. Teams play their starters less in the final game before the season opener, trying to avoid injury. Lewis has an idea of how much he'd like Palmer to play on Monday, but will wait to see how he looks before deciding how long to let him go. "As far as how much he'll play, I'll judge that during the game and go from there," Lewis said Friday, declining to discuss it further.
Analysis: Palmer has decided that he's ready to get back on the field for the second-to-last preseason game, against the Green Bay Packers at Paul Brown Stadium. He hasn't been tackled during practice, one of the final tests for his rebuilt left knee. The team has said that he will not only play on Aug. 28 against the Packers, but he will participate in the exhibition season finale on Sept. 1 against the Colts. We'll monitor his progress in the two games. However, this is a positive sign for Fantasy owners who have been sweating out his every move so far.
News: Bengals.com reports Carson Palmer (knee) will not only make his preseason debut on Aug. 28 against the Packers, but he will participate in the exhibition season finale on Sept. 1 against the Colts.
Analysis: Palmer might be a little rusty in the first game. We'll monitor his progress in the two games. However, this is a positive sign for Fantasy owners who have been sweating out his every move so far.
News: Carson Palmer is ready to play. With his rebuilt knee holding up in practice, the Cincinnati Bengals quarterback said Thursday that he will play in the next preseason game, stepping on the field and taking a hit for the first time since his injury in the playoffs seven months ago. Palmer is expected to start against the Green Bay Packers on Monday night, when his left knee will get its biggest test yet. "I'm going to play," Palmer said. "Nothing's changed. We set out this date a while back, and everything's been on schedule and I've been fortunate enough to progress from day to day and week to week. So, I'll be out there for the first time this year." Palmer hasn't talked to coach Marvin Lewis and offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski about how much he will play.
Analysis: When he jogs onto the field at Paul Brown Stadium on Monday night, he'll have come full circle. He was carted off the same field on Jan. 8 after Pittsburgh's Kimo von Oelhoffen hit the side of his knee on his first pass during a 31-17 playoff loss, tearing two ligaments and causing other damage. How Palmer feels after Monday's game would have an impact on whether he plays in the final preseason game four days later at Indianapolis. He remains the No. 2 Fantasy QB on our rank list despite him not playing at all this preseason. Owners should not only draft a reliable Fantasy backup when taking Palmer, but also consider Cincy's backup, Anthony Wright, who has looked good in camp and in the preseason. Spend an early-round pick on Palmer if he looks good Monday.
News: QB Carson Palmer said he expects to play in the Bengals' preseason game next Monday against Green Bay, provided he doesn't have any swelling this week in his surgically rebuilt knee. "I'm preparing to play. I'm practicing to play," Palmer said. "That's been part of the plan, part of the schedule. I'll see how I feel later in the week, but right now I'm expecting to play."
Analysis: Lewis declined to say whether Palmer could still play in the Sept. 10 opener at Kansas City if he sits out the Green Bay game. "He wants to make sure he can perform his job the way he knows how to perform it when he steps out onto the field," Lewis said Sunday. "He doesn't want to go out there before he feels like he is whole to do his job. That's a good thing. We have time, and I think that's what he's very conscious of." He remains the No. 2 Fantasy QB on our rank list despite him not playing at all this preseason. Owners should not only draft a reliable Fantasy backup when taking Palmer, but also consider Cincy's backup, Anthony Wright, who has looked good in camp and in the preseason. Spend a second- or third-round pick on him this summer.
News: Carson Palmer (knee) told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he plans to play in the Aug. 28 preseason game against the Packers. "Yeah, preparing to play, practicing to play, that's been part of the plan, part of the schedule. I'll see how I feel later in the week, but now I'm expecting to play. I'll know later on this week," Palmer said. "I'm very confident. I'm going to prepare and plan to play, but it's not like I've been out that long. It's not like I sat out last year. It's been a regular offseason for me, as far as I haven't missed any games."
Analysis: Coach Marvin Lewis added, "He (has) prepared every week like he's going to start the game." He also noted that Palmer's schedule will be no different this week than any other during training camp. Palmer is a first-round Fantasy talent, but it seems he is falling in most drafts because owners are unwilling to pull the trigger until they see him prove his health. He will be just fine this season and remains a top Fantasy talent.
News: Bengals.com confirmed that QB Carson Palmer will not play at Buffalo in the team's second preseason game. He did practice Wednesday morning and took the afternoon off, all a regular part of his routine. Palmer is aiming to play in the Bengals' next preseason game. CBS Sports' Boomer Esiason was at Bengals camp and is confident Palmer will play soon. "It might be 10 days, it might be 14 days, but it will be here and all this nonsense can stop," Esiason told the web site.
Analysis: Palmer has been aiming for that third preseason game all along, so be sure to check and see if he plays in that game. He remains the No. 2 Fantasy QB on our rank list despite him not playing at all this preseason. Owners should not only draft a reliable Fantasy backup when taking Palmer, but also consider Cincy's backup, Anthony Wright, who has looked good in camp and in the preseason.
News: The Bengals' official website reports that head coach Marvin Lewis plans to allow Carson Palmer decide when he's able to play coming back from a reconstructed knee. If Palmer does not play Friday at the Bills, that does not mean he won't start the season opener against the Chiefs. Palmer will need to play in some preseason games, however, if he wants to start Week 1. “I can’t get into his skin. He has to decide,” Lewis said. “The doctors say he’s ready to go (medically), it’s just when he feels like he's ready to go, we unwrap him. It's up to him. There's nothing medically one way or another that's going to make a difference this week, next week or two weeks from now."
Analysis: If Palmer is unable to start in the preseason, expect the Bengals to go with Anthony Wright in Week 1. Palmer looks like he is making some nice progress and that is good news for Fantasy owners in keeper leagues. Barring setbacks, he should moved to second at the quarterback position behind Peyton Manning on quarterback rank lists.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Carson Palmer (knee) was able to throw passes before Sunday's preseason game against the Redskins. He was not wearing a brace on his surgically-repaired knee.
Analysis: Palmer looks like he is making some nice progress and that is good news for Fantasy owners in keeper leagues. Barring setbacks, he should moved to second at the quarterback position behind Peyton Manning on quarterback rank lists.
News: The Bengals have increased the practice workload of quarterback Carson Palmer after he publicly requested more snaps. Palmer logged about three quarters of the Monday practice snaps.
Analysis: This indicates that the Bengals are confident enough in his surgically repaired knee to push it. It sounds like he is making some nice progress and that is good news for Fantasy owners in keeper leagues. Barring setbacks, he should moved to second at the quarterback position behind Peyton Manning on quarterback rank lists.
News: Carson Palmer (knee) is targeting a return to the field for action in the third exhibition game on Mon. Aug. 28 against the Packers. "I'm confident running with it and planting and cutting," Palmer said. "But as far as getting hit, having to run full-speed and stop in a small area, I'm not mentally ready for that. And I don't think my knee's ready for that. There's no point in me testing it and seeing exactly what I can and can't do."
Analysis: Palmer will go through two-a-day practices. It sounds like he is making some nice progress and that is good news for Fantasy owners in keeper leagues. Barring any setbacks, it looks like he is well on pace to be back for the regular season opener.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Palmer (knee) reported to training camp on Saturday. He said he has never looked forward so much to training camp. "I'm excited to get going," Palmer said. "I'm excited to see how the knee holds up after 12 practices. The team has their first practice Saturday evening.
Analysis: Palmer said he expected to take about 40 percent of the snaps in the first practice on Saturday. The team will likely be very cautious with Palmer during the preseason, so don't expect to see much, if anything, from him in the first exhibition game or two.
News: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis had this to say about the status of Carson Palmer, who continues to rehab from an injured knee. "We keep preparing the other guys as if (Palmer) won't be there, but chances are he will be (for the start of the regular season)," Lewis said.
Analysis: The Bengals signed free agent quarterbacks Doug Johnson and Anthony Wright as insurance for Palmer, but at this point the news has all been positive. Barring setbacks, he should moved to second at the quarterback position behind Peyton Manning on quarterback rank lists.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports Chris Perry was the lone offensive skill position player that Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis would describe as questionable for the start of training camp. Not even Carson Palmer was mentioned.
Analysis: Modern medicine seems to have performed a miracle of sorts on Palmer if he's in fact available for the start of training camp. If the news continues to be positive, owners should then move Palmer up to second behind Peyton Manning on QB rank lists.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) has participated in on-field activities this week and continues to rehab strong from the devastating knee injury he suffered in the 2005 postseason. He even took part in 7-on-7 drills. Trainer Paul Sparling said the torn tissue around the kneecap -- which dislocated -- has healed and is no longer a concern. Palmer is aiming to return for the season opener on Sept. 10 in Kansas City -- exactly eight months after the knee was rebuilt. "It certainly is cutting it close," Sparling said. "I much rather would have a little bit more time. But that being said, given the position he plays, given the successful surgery that's been done so far, given the fact that he's had an uneventful rehab, it's very conceivable."
Analysis: Owners would love to hear about Palmer getting a clean bill of health for the start of the season, but that's unlikely until late August. Figure that Palmer will play close to a full season, and that should be good enough for owners who want to take him with an early- to middle-round pick. Just be sure to draft a capable backup in case Palmer can't go in the first few weeks of the regular season.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis believes Carson Palmer (knee) will be available for the preseason. Asked if he thought Palmer would play in the preseason, Lewis said, "Yes."
Analysis: When asked if he believes Palmer will take the first snap in the regular-season opener Sept. 10 at Kansas City, Lewis said, "I do." We still have some doubts that Palmer can return so soon, but this is positive news nonetheless.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports Carson Palmer (knee) received a nice phone call from Peyton Manning during the offseason. "I don't know, I just think sometimes in the offseason guys get hurt and people kind of forget about them somewhat," Manning told Michael Silver, who wrote an article on Palmer in Sports Illustrated. "It's kind of the same way when guys retire all of a sudden - I'll usually send them a bottle of wine or a note when that happens - and I'm just kind of sensitive to that."
Analysis: Silver's article on Palmer is excellent material for Fantasy Footballers who either have the quarterback in keeper leagues or plan to draft him in seasonal formats. Palmer hasn't had a single setback in his recovery from a serious knee injury and believes he can return in time for the regular-season opener, but most people who sustain his injuries are out at least nine to 12 months. Palmer was injured in January.
News: Bengals.com reports Caron Palmer (knee) started taking five-step drops at practice Wednesday. He hasn't had setbacks and seems to be doing well as he looks to return to 100 percent. “I do more and more every day," Palmer said. "My leg is stronger. As the process keeps going well, hopefully I do more and more. ... It’s fun just to be able to do more with the team every day as well as to be able to do more and more with the trainers on the side."
Analysis: Palmer, who tore two ligaments in his left leg in the postseason, appears to be on track to return in time for Week 1. However, some think it would be a small miracle for that to happen.
News: The Dayton Daily News reports that WR Chad Johnson is optimistic his quarterback, Carson Palmer, will be ready for the 2006 season. "He's walking around, running and lifting (weights), doing everything everyone else does," Johnson said. "So I think he's going to be ready to go. When you watch him, you'd think there's nothing wrong with him. You wouldn't know he got hurt."
Analysis: We would expect Johnson to be optimistic. Monitor his status for the upcoming season if you have designs on drafting or keeping him.
News: According to reports, Carson Palmer (knee) continues to perform light throwing and jogging at the Cincinnati Bengals training complex.
Analysis: Palmer continues to recover from knee surgery, which could keep him from being ready for the start of the regular season. Continue to monitor his status.
News: Bengals.com reports that Carson Palmer has started his throwing routine on the field at Paul Brown Stadium. He started off slowly, but has begun to drop back and throw deep passes.
Analysis: This is a good sign. Palmer has impressed teammates this offseason with his rehab and is apparently ahead of schedule. Expect the Bengals' signal-caller to be ready by at least the early weeks of the season, if not the end of the preseason.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Carson Palmer (knee) has extension back in his left leg and will now start to strengthen it. "Everything is going as scheduled and planned," Palmer said. "I'm just starting to get to the point where I can push weight around."
Analysis: Palmer said while he can't predict the future, he still expects to be available for the team's regular-season opener. In fact, he believes he will return in time for the preseason, but that remains to be seen.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer's rehab from torn ligaments in his left knee is "on schedule" according to his surgeon, Dr. Lonnie Paulos. "Dr. Paulos has told us that Carson is progressing just as we hoped he would," Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said. "Carson still has much rehab work ahead, obviously, but at this point he is on schedule for our goal of having him ready to open the 2006 season. This is encouraging news for everyone in our organization."
Analysis: Palmer should be on track to be back on the field late in training camp, and has a realistic shot of being Cincy's starting quarterback come Kickoff Weekend 2006.
News: Carson Palmer's knee injury was "devastating and potentially career-ending," involving numerous ligament tears, a shredded ligament, damaged cartilage and a dislocated kneecap, his surgeon said Jan. 12. The team announced that he had torn the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments. The damage was much more extensive and severe, but Dr. Lonnie Paulos said surgery went well and Palmer could be back for the start of the season. "It's not just like it was a torn ACL," Paulos said. "It's a magnitude more difficult to recover from and repair. It can and has ended careers, without a doubt. However, I feel very comfortable with Carson as an athlete and the heart that he's got. In the end, that's the bottom line. I can see the look in his eye already. He's ready to get going."
Analysis: There's a lot of drama in the doctor's statements, but don't sweat it. Yet. Fantasy owners have to wait until training camp 2006 to see if Palmer suits up and how he looks. Remember that while his knee will have undergone major reconstruction, his throwing arm will be well rested.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Carson Palmer is expected to miss at least "eight or nine months" if all goes well with surgery to repair his torn ACL and MCL, reports. "Carson's injury is a lot more complicated than the average ACL injury," surgeon Dr. Colosimo said. "There are multiple ligaments involved and he essentially dislocated his knee. It's a more complicated operation, and a more complicated course of recovery."
Analysis: The rehabilitation process could cause Palmer to miss training camp and even the start of the regular season. It's still hard not to retain him in keeper leagues, but his value could fall in seasonal formats. Be sure to monitor this situation throughout the offseason.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer finished 2005 throwing for 3,836 yards, an NFL-high 32 touchdown, 12 interceptions with 41 rush yards and a rushing score. However, in the team's wild-card game, Palmer tore his ACL in the first quarter. The Bengals expect him to be ready for training camp 2006.
Analysis: Palmer surpassed expectations en route to an amazing season. The injury may have lingering effects next summer, but assume that Palmer will be one of the first two or three QBs taken in 2006 drafts.
News: An MRI revealed Palmer has a torn anterior cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament, as the quarterback had originally feared. He suffered the injury on the second play from scrimmage when DL Kimo von Oelhoffen rolled into his knee after being blocked into the quarterback.
Analysis: Surgery has not yet been scheduled, but the team is hopeful he will be back in time for training camp. Look for surgery to be performed as soon as possible and for the quarterback to take it light in training camp. The Bengals will be led by veteran Jon Kitna for the remainder of the postseason as long as they remain alive with Craig Krenzel serving as the backup. This is a tough blow for Fantasy owners in keeper leagues, but it looks like he should still be a decent option. Right now, he is not expected to miss any time in the regular season of 2006, but that is purely conjecture at this point.
News: Carson Palmer is having an MRI on his knee after suffering an injury when DL Kimo von Oelhoffen was blocked into him on the second play from scrimmage in Sunday's Wild Card game.
Analysis: Palmer's status for the rest of the game is likely doubtful, as veteran Jon Kitna will probably have to finish up the game with emergency QB Craig Krenzel serving as his backup. We'll know more at halftime and we'll pass it on to you. Palmer completed his only pass for 66 yards to rookie WR Chris Henry, who also suffered a knee injury and will not return.
News: Carson Palmer suffered an apparent knee injury on the second play from scrimmage in Sunday's Wild Card game against the Steelers. DL Kimo Von Oelhoffen was blocked into the quarterback and he immediately went down after a 66-yard pass to WR Chris Henry.
Analysis: Palmer was helped from the field and immediately taken into the locker room. Veteran Jon Kitna is on for the Bengals and will likely finish up the first playoff game since 1990 for the Bengals, as Palmer does not look like he will be back any time soon.
News: In 2005, Bengals QB Carson Palmer had two 227-yard games against the Steelers -- one with two interceptions and another with three touchdowns. Interestingly enough, the two-interception game came at Paul Brown Stadium in their first meeting, which is where they will play in the first round of the playoffs.
Analysis: Palmer has a sore groin and could be a bit limited but should still pass for around 227 yards (what else?!) with some scores against the Steelers.
News: Carson Palmer was replaced by Jon Kitna in the second quarter of Sunday's regular-season finale at Kansas City. He completed 5-of-8 passes for 54 yards in limited work.
Analysis: Palmer had an MVP-caliber season both on the field and in Fantasy Football. He'll be one of the top two quarterbacks selected in drafts next season.
News: CBS Sports reports that Carson Palmer (groin) will start in Week 17 at Kansas City.
Analysis: Jon Kitna won't start, but he will see some time during the game. Make lineup adjustments accordingly ASAP.
News: Bengals.com reports Carson Palmer (groin) returned to practice Friday. He wasn't downgraded on the injury report.
Analysis: Palmer might start in the regular-season finale, but he won't be on the field more than a few series. Start him with caution.
News: Bengals.com reports Carson Palmer (groin, probable) missed practice on Thursday and might be rested in Week 17.
Analysis: Should Palmer be downgraded, look for Jon Kitna to start at Kansas City. He would be a nice last-minute starter in larger leagues.
News: QB Carson Palmer (groin) is getting treatment. He said he wants to play against Kansas City but that coach Marvin Lewis has given him no indication of his plans. Lewis was asked directly if he would play quarterback Carson Palmer. The factors for Lewis: "Where we are physically Saturday, and Sunday before the game, and how we go into the game and how the game's going."
Analysis: Owners looking to use Palmer should monitor his status throughout the week. If he plays a full game, Palmer is a likely candidate for 300 yards.
News: Bengals.com reports that QB Carson Palmer (groin) may miss the team's Week 17 game at Kansas City. With a home game secured for the first round of the playoffs, Lewis wouldn't delve into how he would approach the game as far as personnel, but ... "We're going to play to win," he said. "We have to play better."
Analysis: Monitor Palmer's progress throughout the week; if he plays, then the Bengals are fighting to win at Arrowhead.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 266 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 37-27 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Analysis: Palmer is a must-start quarterback for Week 17 at Kansas City.
News: Carson Palmer racked up 274 yards on 28-of-39 passing with three TDs and two INTs in Week 15 at Detroit.
Analysis: He's a great play in Week 16 vs. Buffalo.
News: Carson Palmer threw for a career-low 93 yards and one interception. The Bengals dropped four passes. The line did not allow a sack, though, and Palmer has been brought down on pass plays just 16 times in 426 attempts.
Analysis: The Browns played against the pass, giving Rudi Johnson a simple 169-yard day. Palmer's weak game was an apparition; expect him to bounce back at Detroit in Week 15.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 13-of-27 passing for a bleak 93 yards with a touchdown and an interception vs. Cleveland in Week 14.
Analysis: The Browns had a great strategy, covering WR Chad Johnson very well and limiting Palmer's success. He should bounce back in a big way next week at Detroit in Week 15.
News: Palmer, who leads the NFL with 26 touchdown passes this season, needs just one more 100.0-plus passer rating in the final four games to set a single-season record. Palmer has 11 such ratings in the first 12 games this season (14 in his last 15, dating to 2004). Palmer's 106.6 rating is second in the NFL to the Colts Peyton Manning (107.6). Palmer's 11 100.0-plus passer rating games in one season tie him with Manning (2004), St. Louis Rams' Kurt Warner (1999) and the 49ers' Steve Young (1994). Palmer has improved dramatically since the opener against the Browns, when he threw an end-zone interception and lost a fumble. Since throwing two interceptions and no touchdowns in the Oct. 23 loss to the Steelers, Palmer has 13 touchdowns against just three interceptions.
Analysis: Using Palmer is obvious at this point -- start him if you have him over just about everybody in the NFL.
News: Carson Palmer threw three touchdown passes in Week 13 at Pittsburgh. He was 22-for-38 for 227 yards.
Analysis: Palmer has been the best Fantasy quarterback this season. He'll look to continue the trend in Week 14 vs. Cleveland.
News: The Enquirer reports the Cincinnati Bengals have been productive utilizing the no-huddle offense this season. "I love it, and I think we love it as an offense," Carson Palmer said. "The more and more we do it the more reps we get at it, the more we can expand our offense and start putting in more."
Analysis: Palmer has emerged as the best quarterback in Fantasy Football this season. He should be active each week regardless of the opponent.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 302 yards with three touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 42-29 win over the Baltimore Ravens.
Analysis: Palmer has emerged as the best quarterback in Fantasy Football this season. He should be active each week regardless of the opponent.
News: Carson Palmer racked up 335 yards on 25-of-38 passing with two touchdowns and one INT in Week 11 vs. the Colts.
Analysis: Palmer is having a fantastic season and is a must-start in Week 12 vs. Baltimore.
News: The Week 11 matchup between the Bengals and Colts will feature two of the leading vote-getters for this year's Pro Bowl at the QB position. Peyton Manning and Carson Palmer are currently second and sixth respectively in league-wide voting.
Analysis: Despite facing one of the top pass defenses in all of football, Palmer has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy formats and is a recommended starter for Week 11.
News: Carson Palmer was 19-of-26 passing for 248 yards and two TDs in a Week 9 victory at Baltimore.
Analysis: Palmer has a bye in Week 10, and faces the difficult Colts defense in Week 11. He remains a must start in all leagues after the bye.
News: Carson Palmer completed 23 of 34 passes for 237 yards and three touchdowns against the Packers Sunday. He also threw one interception.
Analysis: The Bengals play at Baltimore in Week 9. Palmer was held without a score a week ago, but he now has six games this season with multiple touchdowns. Start him in all leagues.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer struggled vs. Pittsburgh in Week 7, throwing for 227 yards and two interceptions. Palmer did rush for a touchdown in the game.
Analysis: Palmer had a hard time with the Steelers' pass rush, which made it hard for him to have time to throw. Palmer should improve bigtime vs. Green Bay in Week 8. Keep him in your lineup.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 272 yards and two TDs in Sunday's 31-23 win over the Tennessee Titans.
Analysis: Palmer has developed into a must-start QB each week regardless of the opposition.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 239 yards and two TDs in Sunday night's loss to the Jaguars. His lone turnover came on a fumble as the Bengals were attempting to drive for a game-tying field goal.
Analysis: The Jags possess one of the best defenses in the NFL and Palmer more than held his own. He should be considered a must-start until further notice, including a Week 6 matchup in Tennessee.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 25 of 34 passing for 276 yards and a touchdown vs. Houston in Week 4.
Analysis: Palmer could be in for a rough day at Jacksonville in Week 5, but because of how well he's done this season, he cannot be benched.
News: Bengals QB Carson Palmer was 16 of 23 for 169 yards with three touchdowns at Chicago in Week 3. He has thrown 17 TDs in his last six games dating back to 2004.
Analysis: There's no doubt now about Palmer's arm or consistency. He's a must-start every week, especially vs. Houston in Week 4.
News: Carson Palmer threw for for 337 yards with three TDs and one interception in Sunday's 37-8 win over the Minnesota Vikings.
Analysis: We touted Palmer as a sleeper the entire preseason, and he's been a true stud through two weeks. He's become a must-start in most formats.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 107 yards and one touchdown in Friday's preseason win over Indianapolis.
Analysis: Palmer is a solid sleeper candidate, so look to add him in the middle rounds.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 136 yards with no touchdowns in Friday's preseason contest vs. Philadelphia. He fumbled once but was able to recover the football.
Analysis: Palmer's stock has risen in the preseason, but this performance left much to be desired. Still, he's a great sleeper candidate in 2005.
News: Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis told the Cincinnati Enquirer that Carson Palmer must get off to good start earlier in ball games. "His whole theme of starting fast you want to come out and score on the first drive," Palmer said. "In a perfect world you do that 16 out of 16 times. That's what our goal is."
Analysis: Palmer has improved poise and accuracy and should throw well in 2005. He's one of the best No. 2 Fantasy QBs available this year.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 152 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in Friday's preseason win over Washington.
Analysis: Palmer is a solid sleeper candidate and should emerge as a productive No. 1 Fantasy quarterback this season.
News: Carson Palmer went 4-of-11 for 37 yards with one interception in Friday's 23-13 preseason loss to New England.
Analysis: Not a great start for Palmer, but he's still a fantastic sleeper candidate in drafts.
News: The Bengals official website reports Carson Palmer has lost around 20 pounds in the offseason, which makes him feel quicker and more mobile.
Analysis: Palmer, whose knee is also 100 percent, might be the best sleeper candidate in Fantasy Football next season.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports Carson Palmer (knee) has been cleared to participate in the Bengals' offseason conditioning program that starts on April 4.
Analysis: Palmer has immense potential and should be considered a fabulous sleeper candidate for next season.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) is anxious to return to action in Week 17 but the team doctors are holding him out of contact for now. "What the factor is: Is my knee strong enough to prevent something down the road?" Palmer said. "Am I putting those ligaments (in jeopardy)? Hopefully on Saturday or Friday, I'll know. I'm pushing the doctors, and they're pushing in the opposite direction. We're butting heads right now."
Analysis: Palmer is listed as questionable for Week 17 but it appears that Jon Kitna could get called on to start again.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) did not practice for the sixth consecutive day and was downgraded from questionable to doubtful for Week 16 against the Giants.
Analysis: This all but guarantees that Palmer is out for Week 16 and that Jon Kitna will get his second start in a row at quarterback.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) did not practice on Wednesday and remains questionable for Week 16 against the Giants.
Analysis: Palmer intends to start against the Giants but is a risky start with his injury. If he can't play, Jon Kitna will again get the start.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports Palmer (knee) is questionable for Week 16 against the Giants.
Analysis: Coach Marvin Lewis said he will be his starting quarterback again only when he is healthy enough to play. Jon Kitna will fill in for a second straight start if he is unable to go.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) is likely out for Week 15 against Buffalo. "It is looking bleak for this weekend, but right now, I'm set on playing next week against the Giants," Palmer said.
Analysis: Palmer suffered a sprained left knee in Week 14 at New England. Jon Kitna is expected to make his first start of 2004 against the Bills. The Bengals face the N.Y. Giants in Week 16.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) is improving but remains listed as questionable for Week 15 against Buffalo. "He has improved some. We'll see," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "He's still in his brace."
Analysis: Palmer sprained his left knee in the third quarter of Week 14 against New England. He is worth owning as a No. 2 QB but is not worth starting in Week 15 against a tough Buffalo defense.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals QB Carson Palmer (knee) is listed as questionable for Week 15 against Buffalo after spraining his left knee in the third quarter of Week 14 against New England. "I'm going to get ready to play next week," said Palmer. "They don't know exactly what it is. I'm not sure what really happened. I got rolled up on. I felt a little pop."
Analysis: Palmer will have an MRI on his knee. He is worth owning as a No. 2 QB but is not worth starting in Week 15 against a tough Buffalo defense.
News: Carson Palmer was forced to leave the Week 14 game at New England in the third quarter with a sprained knee. He was 18-of-24 for 202 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.
Analysis: Palmer had X-rays on his knee and did not return to action. He was replaced by Jon Kitna. His status for Week 15 is unknown.
News: Carson Palmer was 29-of-36 for 382 yards and three touchdowns in Week 13 against Baltimore. He also had one interception.
Analysis: Another solid game for Palmer. He is worth considering as a No. 2 Fantasy QB. The Bengals travel to New England in Week 14.
News: Carson Palmer was 22-of-29 for 251 yards and four touchdowns against Cleveland in Week 12.
Analysis: It wasn't all good for Palmer as the young QB did throw three interceptions. He is showing some promise but still has little Fantasy value. The Bengals travel to Baltimore in Week 13.
News: Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer developed back spasms Thursday during the first half of a practice but is expected to play against the Cleveland Browns in Week 12. "He spent the second half in treatment," coach Marvin Lewis said. "We expect he'll be fine."
Analysis: Palmer is listed as probable for Week 12 so expect him to start. Jon Kitna is the No. 2 QB for the Bengals.
News: Carson Palmer was 13-of-25 for 165 yards and two touchdowns in Week 11 against the Steelers. He was also intercepted once.
Analysis: At best, Palmer is only worth owning as a No. 2 Fantasy QB. The Bengals host the Browns in Week 12.
News: Carson Palmer completed 24-of-39 passes for 217 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Week 10 at Washington.
Analysis: Palmer is not a recommended Fantasy starter for Week 11 against Cincinnati.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 212 yards with two scores (one rush, one pass) in Sunday's win over Dallas.
Analysis: Despite the nice numbers, Palmer isn't a recommended starter for Week 10 at Washington.
News: According to the Cincinnati Post, Carson Palmer will remain the Bengals starter for Week 9.
Analysis: Rumors continue to swirl about Jon Kitna, but it appears Palmer is entrenched atop the depth chart.
News: Carson Palmer was 20-of-36 for 247 yards and one interception in Week 8 against Tennessee.
Analysis: Palmer has little Fantasy value outside a reserve in larger leagues. The Bengals host the Cowboys in Week 9.
News: Carson Palmer completed 12-of-21 passes for 198 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Week 7 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Palmer had most of his production in a shocking first half, building a decent lead. He then fed the ball to Rudi Johnson who took over in the second half. Palmer is still not a recommended Fantasy starter in Week 8 at Tennessee despite the decent showing on Monday.
News: Carson Palmer completed seven of his 12 pass attempts for 144 yards, one touchdown and one interception in the first half of Week 7 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Palmer connected with Chad Johnson for a 50-yard touchdown in the first quarter on a play where Denver CB Champ Bailey slipped and fell. Head coach Marvin Lewis had said Palmer might be pulled if he had a poor first half in favor of Jon Kitna. That is now put to rest, at least for this week.
News: Palmer completed 20-of-36 passes for only 148 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Week 6 at Cleveland.
Analysis: Palmer has struggled mightily and is not worth using in Week 7 when the Broncos visit Paul Brown Stadium on Monday night.
News: According to the Plain Dealer, Carson Palmer has a passing rating of 58.8. Only three quarterbacks in the NFL have a worse rating. Still, coach Marvin Lewis is sticking with Palmer and won't cave in to fans who want Jon Kitna back under center. "He is playing because it is the best way for our team to win games. As long as he isn't the guy who is hindering us, he will be the quarterback," Lewis said.
Analysis: Palmer should only be owned as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy quarterback.
News: Carson Palmer will make his fifth straight start in Week 6 against Cleveland. He has thrown six interceptions and just one touchdown in the past three weeks.
Analysis: Palmer needs to look for his bigplay receiver, Chad Johnson with more regularity this week if he wants to be successful. At this point, Palmer should only be used as a No. 2 Fantasy QB or a reserve.
News: Carson Palmer was 20-of-37 for 164 yards in a Week 4 loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Palmer had a touchdown and two interceptions. He is only worth owning as a reserve QB. Cincinnati has a bye in Week 5 and faces Cleveland in Week 6.
News: Carson Palmer threw for 316 yards against Baltimore in Week 3.
Analysis: Sounds impressive until you realize he was only 25-of-52 and had three interceptions. He should only be owned as a reserve at this point in his career. Cincinnati plays Pittsburgh in Week 4.
News: Carson Palmer completed 21 of 38 passes for 147 yards and an interception against Miami Sunday.
Analysis: Palmer is a promising young prospect, but he is not worth starting against a tough Baltimore defense in Week 3.
News: Despite losing 31-24 to the Jets, Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer had a nice game. He was 18 of 27 for 248 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Palmer was accurate with his passes and had the ability to find his receivers deep. He is worth adding as a reserve in Fantasy formats but shouldn't be considered a starter at this point. The Bengals face a tough Miami defense at home in Week 2.
News: Palmer had a decent preseason and he is ready to prove head coach Marvin Lewis made the right decision in naming him the team's starting quarterback in 2004 before camp started.
Analysis: Palmer will get the first start of his career in Week 1 at N.Y. Jets. He might be worth using in most larger Fantasy leagues.
News: Carson Palmer completed 12-of-26 passes for 171 yards and an interception in Saturday's preseason game at Atlanta.
Analysis: Palmer will enter the season as a decent No. 2 or 3 Fantasy quarterback in most leagues. He has the luxury of handing the ball to the capable Rudi Johnson or throwing downfield to Chad Johnson. With defenses worrying about the Johnsons, Palmer might have a solid first season under center.
News: The team's official website reports Carson Palmer will play into the third quarter in Saturday's preseason game at Atlanta.
Analysis: Palmer had a strong showing in his last preseason game, completing 12-of-19 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns against New England on Aug. 21.
News: Carson Palmer completed 12-of-19 passes for 179 yards and three touchdowns in Saturday's preseason against the Patriots.
Analysis: While Palmer's showing was very impressive, be sure not to overvalue him on Draft Day based on his preseason performance.
News: Head coach Marvin Lewis told the team's official website that Carson Palmer will play the entire first half in Saturday's preseason game against the Patriots.
Analysis: Palmer will have to look a lot better in his second preseason game to warrant any Fantasy consideration other than larger leagues.
News: Carson Palmer was 3 of 8 for 74 yards and an interception in his first start since college. The first pick in the 2003 draft, Palmer was able to lead the Bengals on an eight-play, 60-yard drive that produced a 36-yard field goal. "I'm not happy with the outcome, but we did some good things along with the mistakes," Palmer said. "I felt weird, but I felt great. It's just been so long since I played in an actual game."
Analysis: We'll see Coach Marvin Lewis does if Palmer can't get it done in the regular season. Owners should avoid Palmer except as a reserve in very large leagues.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Carson Palmer hooked up with Chad Johnson for a 50 yard bomb in practice on Monday. "That long ball is such a small part of our offense," Palmer said. "I need to take what the defense gives me and work the ball around. And Chad Johnson is not the only receiver for us. We've got a lot of other guys who can get open and move the chains for us.
Analysis: This is going to be a huge year for Palmer, as the Bengals have handed him the starting job despite pretty solid play by Jon Kitna.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, reports Palmer's personality has changed on the field since becoming the starting quarterback. "He seems like, for a new guy, real composed," Bengals offensive lineman Eric Steinbach said. "He knows where his three different looks are. When I'm watching, I'll see him look at all three reads, not just his primary receiver. He just looks more comfortable."
Analysis: Palmer, a former Heisman Trophy winner, is worth a late-round selection on Draft Day.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis has named Carson Palmer his starting quarterback for 2004.
Analysis: The move makes Palmer an interesting Fantasy option, though he'll be no better than a reserve in most leagues.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis might be leaning towards Carson Palmer as his starter in 2004.
Analysis: Lewis isn't expected to make a decision on whether to start Palmer or Jon Kitna for another month.
News: According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Bengals coach Marvin Lewis will determine during the offseason whether Palmer or Jon Kitna will be the starter in 2004.
Analysis: Palmer didn't play during his rookie season and would only be worth a reserve spot on Fantasy teams.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirerreports that Palmer will be the No. 2 quarterback for the second straight week against Seattle on Sunday.
Analysis: Palmer's value in keeper leagues continues to climb, but he is still not useful in yearly leagues until he starts.
News: The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Palmer moved up to No. 2 quarterback behind Jon Kitna Sunday against Baltimore. "We need to make sure we give him steps in the process to make him the fine NFL quarterback everybody believes he can be," said Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. He overtook Shane Matthews who is now the emergency quarterback.
Analysis: Palmer only has Fantasy value in keeper leagues at this point. If the Bengals fall out of playoff contention, Palmer will probably see some snaps.
News: Palmer (foot) was able to play in Saturday's preseason game against Detroit. He completed all seven of his pass attempts for 97 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Coach Marvin Lewis is already contemplating moving Palmer up the depth chart past Shane Matthews to be the primary backup to starter Jon Kitna. Palmer is still only worth a roster spot in keeper leagues.
News: According to the Pro Football News & Injury Report, Palmer (foot) will be a gametime decision for Saturday's preseason game against Detroit. "You always want the chance, after a game like that, to get back up on the horse," said Palmer. "I want to play and, if my foot keeps getting better every day, I should be able to go. At least that's what I hope."
Analysis: Despite his health status, Palmer's Fantasy value is limited to keeper leagues at this point.
News: The Cincinnati Post reports that Palmer (foot) will play in Saturday's preseason game against Detroit. Palmer has a partially torn plantar fascia tendon that is keeping him out of practice. "I probably could have sprinted but it's not worth it," Palmer said. "I just want to let it heal as much as possible before the game."
Analysis: Palmer will serve as backup to Jon Kitna for most of this season. He should be drafted in keeper leagues only.
News: Palmer 12-of-22 passes for 140 yards and a touchdown, but he was also picked off on consecutive possessions, each going for touchdowns in Sunday's preseason game at N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Palmer is expected to serve as the backup to Jon Kitna. He will likely start at some point once the Bengals fall out of contention. He is valuable only in keeper leagues at this point.
News: Palmer might be moving up the depth charts already. According to the Dayton Daily News, the Bengals are considering cutting former first-rounder Akili Smith in favor of Greg Zolman. Such a move would leave Carson Palmer as the primary backup to starter Jon Kitna. Palmer will have minimal Fantasy value in 2003 unless he can secure a starting job at some point.
Analysis:
