News: Vikings defensive lineman Kevin Williams notched three tackles and a sack during Minnesota's 34-24 win over Detroit in Week 10. Williams knocked down Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford for his second sack in the past four games -- his total on the season.
Analysis: Williams has been a dominant force in the backfield throughout his career with the Vikings, but his numbers have started to take a dip in recent years. This season is no different as he remains three shy of his sack total from last year when he appeared in just 14 games. Minnesota has plenty of players who rush the quarterback, but Williams remains a low-end option in most Fantasy IDP formats at this point.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams, who went his first seven games without a sack, now has two straight with a sack after recording one Week 12 at Atlanta. He finished with two tackles, including one solo, and also had a forced fumble in the contest.
Analysis: Williams was a pretty good source of sacks earlier in his career, but as an interior lineman, his job is mostly to fill space. You should continue to avoid him for now in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: After going seven straight games without one, Vikings DL Kevin Williams finally recorded his first sack of the season Week 11 against the Raiders. He also had eight tackles (including three solo), doubling his previous season high. “I think I have been putting too much pressure on myself to get a sack and I just blocked that out today and played ball,” said Williams. “I think it’s getting me back where I need to be.”
Analysis: Williams has had two seasons with double-digit sacks in his career, but he had only one sack last year and generally isn't regarded as much of a pass-rusher anymore. Unless this sack leads to several more, you should continue to treat Williams as just a low-end option in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: The Vikings waived DL Adrian Awasom on Tuesday. They added Kevin Williams to the 53-man roster to take his place.
Analysis: Williams rejoined the roster after serving a two-game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance. He has been dealing with a foot injury, but has said that he expects to be available beginning in Week 3. His production has declined since he totaled a career-high 60 tackles and 8 1/2 sacks in 2008, but he is still a good NFL defensive tackle that could become useful again in IDP formats. Scoop him up in deeper leagues.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams returned to the team after serving a two-game suspension for testing positive for a banned substance. "I feel good," he said. "The rest helped my foot but not my mind. We are 0-2 right now. It was real difficult watching--especially the way it unfolded in both games." Williams, who has also dealing with plantar fasciitis in his left foot said he will play in Week 3 against the Lions. "I won't say I am a full 100 percent, but I am as close as I am probably going to get this time of the year. So we will just evaluate it week-to-week and hopefully it holds up. I am definitely going to play. Sitting at home for two weeks was bad enough."
Analysis: Williams said he is ready to move on from his suspension and the Vikings are to after starting the season 0-2. He also said his foot feels better and should be ready to play in Week 3 against the Lions. Williams ' production has declined since he totaled a career-high 60 tackles and 8 1/2 sacks in 2008. He is still a good NFL defensive tackle, but Williams is at best a late-round Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: The NFL announced on Friday that DL Kevin Williams will be suspended for the first two games of the NFL season due to violating the league's drug policy. He tested positive for a banned substance two years ago and had been awaiting the league's final decision, that had been delayed due to litigation.
Analysis: Williams was facing a four-game ban, so a two-game suspension is actually good news. By the time he is eligible to play, the minor pain in his left foot that he has been dealing with this preseason should have subsided. Williams' production has declined since he totaled a career-high 60 tackles and 8 1/2 sacks in 2008. He is still a good NFL defensive tackle, but Williams is at best a late-round Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams, who returned to practice on Monday, will continue to be hampered by the pain in his left foot. "It's a situation where I don't think it's going to go away until maybe the offseason," Williams said. "We're just going to deal with it and try and grin and bear it." The veteran has plantar fasciitis.
Analysis: Williams said he felt a little better running around during a light practice on Monday, but it will be a daily evaluation. "I ran pretty good," Williams said. "It wasn't real physical. It was a lot of hand work and running. It wasn't too bad. I needed to run." Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress early on, keeping in mind that he may be suspended at some point because of a test for a banned stimulant three years ago that he failed. Williams lost a court battle with the NFL over the test, but has yet to be notified if he will be eligible to play when the season begins. The former Pro Bowler has too much baggage this season, so consider him to be a late-round pick only in deep IDP formats.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams, who missed practice on Tuesday, said the assumption is that his injury is plantar fasciitis. "We're just trying to figure out what's going on and make sure nothing is going to get further injured," Williams said.
Analysis: Williams' production has declined since he totaled a career-high 60 tackles and 8 1/2 sacks in 2008. He is still a good NFL defensive tackle, but Williams is at best a late-round Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams has a foot injury, and the team wants him to see a specialist. Williams didn't practice Monday and wore a protective sleeve on his right leg. He said he was just resting. But head coach Leslie Frazier said Williams has had trouble pushing off his foot, which has bothered him for the last few weeks.
Analysis: Williams' production has declined since he totaled a career-high 60 tackles and 8 1/2 sacks in 2008. He is still a good NFL defensive tackle, but Williams is at best a late-round Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams has not appealed the Minnesota Court of Appeals ruling in February that ruled in favor of the NFL in the long-standing Starcaps case. That's according to his agent, and that means it's likely he'll finally have to accept a four-game suspension from the NFL for violating its steroid policy. Williams tested positive for the banned diuretic in the summer of 2008 but has managed to avoid a suspension by taking the case to court.
Analysis: If he is suspended for four games, his Fantasy value will take a hit. Williams is one of the rare defensive tackles in 4-3 schemes who put up some decent stats, so he'd be worth drafting late and stashing on benches.
News: The Pioneer Press reports that Vikings DL Kevin Williams had arthroscopic knee surgery this past week. The procedure was performed by renowned knee specialist Dr. James Andrews and there has been no timetable announced for his return. The report states that is it not believed that Williams has any torn ligament damage to his knee, but the surgery stems from knee irritation during the season.
Analysis: Williams continues to be one of the anchors on Minnesota's defense. He racked up 39 tackles in 16 games but finished with just one sack. He is normally a good pass rusher for a position that is normally known for stopping the run, which adds to his Fantasy value. Still, as a defensive tackle, Williams remains more of a low-end Fantasy option since the stats might not always be there.
News: The Minnesota Court of Appeals ruled Tuesday that there is no legal reason to grant Vikings defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams permanent relief from their NFL suspensions for violating the league's anti-doping policy. Barring another appeal, the ruling appears to clear the way for the NFL to suspend the players, which it has been trying to do since the Williamses tested positive for a banned diuretic in 2008. The players have been fighting their suspensions and could appeal this latest decision to the state Supreme Court.
Analysis: Pat Williams is scheduled to be a free agent and might even retire. Kevin Williams, on the other hand, is still in the midst of an awesome career and would see his Fantasy value shrink if he's suspended for four games.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams didn't do much in Week 8 against the Patriots. Williams had just two tackles, one solo in the 28-18 loss.
Analysis: Williams is a interior defensive lineman for the Vikings, which usually doesn't translate into a ton of stats from a Fantasy standpoint. Fantasy owners shouldn't count on much production on a weekly basis from Williams, who is having a down year.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams got his hands on one of Aaron Rodger's passes in the Week 7 loss to the Packers. He also added two tackles (one solo).
Analysis: As a defensive tackle, Williams remains more of a low-end Fantasy option since the stats might not always be there.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had two tackles in Week 3 against the Lions, but was held without a sack. He was also credited with a pass defensed.
Analysis: Williams had a sack in Week 2 against the Dolphins, but he has just one this year. Ironically, he does have back-to-back games with a pass defensed, which is odd for a defensive tackle. And as a defensive tackle, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy option since the stats might not always be there.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had a pretty bad preseason as he recorded no tackles. He didn't get off to a much better start in Week 1 against the Saints. Williams had one tackle in the game and it wasn't even a solo one. He had help on the play.
Analysis: Williams is usually one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL, but he hasn't looked the part since the preseason. Hopefully, he will get his act together because Williams is a pretty good pass rusher. But as a defensive tackle, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy option since the stats might not always be there.
News: If you look up the stats for the Vikings in the preseason, DL Kevin Williams is absent from the list. It's not that he is injured. He just hasn't recorded a tackle in his brief playing time.
Analysis: Williams might be 30 years old, but he still has a lot left in the tank and is one of the NFL's premier defensive tackles. He is a good pass rusher for a position that is normally known for being run stuffers. Still, Williams is more of a low-end Fantasy DL.
News: The Minnesota Court of Appeals has rejected the NFL's request to expedite its handling of the case of Minnesota Vikings Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, which means the defensive tackles may get to play the entire upcoming season. The players are fighting a closely watched legal battle that so far has blocked the NFL from suspending them for four games apiece for testing positive for bumetanide, a banned weight loss supplement, though the players contend they didn't know it was in the StarCaps pills they took. The Williamses have already avoided suspension for a year and a half, dating to the initial announcement by the league in December 2008. They were spared by the courts for the end of the regular season and the playoffs that year, plus the 2009-10 season as the Vikings reached the NFC title game.
Analysis: If the Williamses are suspended, they'll lose a lot of Fantasy luster because they'll miss the first four games of the season along with their Week 4 bye. If they're not, then both will hold varying levels of Fantasy relevance (Kevin is better for IDP leagues than Pat). We'll keep you posted.
News: A Minnesota judge said the NFL failed to notify Vikings DTs Kevin and Pat Williams of their test results within three days, as required in Minnesota, and said an NFL official played "a game of 'gotcha'" with them. But he said that wasn't enough to block the NFL's plan to suspend the players for four games each for taking a banned substance. The NFL first attempted to suspend the defensive tackles in December 2008, a few months after they tested positive for a banned diuretic that was in the StarCaps weight-loss supplement they were taking. They were not accused of taking steroids and said they had no idea the diuretic was in the supplement. The players challenged their suspensions while their lawsuit played out in federal and state court. They got to play for the entire 2009-10 season, helping Minnesota reach the NFC championship game, where it lost to eventual Super Bowl winner New Orleans.
Analysis: The decision doesn't necessarily clear the way for the NFL to suspend Kevin Williams and Pat Williams for part of next season, however. The judge put off a decision on whether to extend an injunction blocking the suspensions pending an expected appeal by the players. A decision isn't expected for about two weeks. If the Williamses are suspended, they'll lose a lot of Fantasy luster because they'll miss the first four games of the season along with their Week 4 bye. We'll keep you posted.
News: Better news for the Vikings on Friday: The team saw starting defensive linemen Ray Edwards and Kevin Williams return to practice. They're listed as questionable with knee injuries. Defensive tackle Pat Williams (elbow/foot) and cornerback Benny Sapp (ankle/back) are also questionable.
Analysis: The only legit Fantasy consideration from this bunch that owners should be worried about is Edwards, who has a knee sprain and surely isn't close to 100 percent. We suggest passing on him in Playoff Challenge and other Fantasy formats for this game. Everyone else is a low-end IDP choice at best.
News: Minnesota All-Pro defensive tackle Kevin Williams was held out of practice Wednesday and Thursday because of a knee injury. He is questionable to play in the NFC championship game at New Orleans.
Analysis: Williams is part of the vaunted Williams Wall for the Vikings and is far more valuable to his teammates than he is to Fantasy owners in IDP leagues. This injury makes him not worth using in Playoff Challenge leagues. He is a middle of the road option in deeper IDP leagues, when healthy.
News: Minnesota All-Pro defensive tackle Kevin Williams was held out of practice Wednesday because of a knee injury. He is questionable to play in the NFC championship game at New Orleans.
Analysis: Williams is part of the vaunted Williams Wall for the Vikings and is far more valuable to his teammates than he is to Fantasy owners in IDP leagues. This injury makes him not worth using in Playoff Challenge leagues. He is a middle of the road option in deeper IDP leagues, when healthy.
News: The Vikings had several players help out in Sunday's 26-7 loss at Carolina with CB Antoine Winfield leading the way with eight tackles and a sack. DL Jared Allen had six tackles, a sack and a forced fumble. LB Chad Greenway had 10 tackles. DL Ray Edwards had six tackles. DB Cedric Griffin had four tackles. And DL Kevin Williams had two tackles.
Analysis: The Vikings have several prominent players in IDP leagues and all are worth using in Week 16 at Chicago.
News: Vikings DL Ray Edwards was stellar Sunday against Detroit with five tackles, two sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Edwards had plenty of help from his teammates. Cedric Griffin had nine tackles and a forced fumble. E.J. Henderson had seven tackles. Chad Greenway had six tackles. Jared Allen had one tackle. Pat Williams had two tackles. Kevin Williams had four tackles and a sack.
Analysis: The Vikings have several solid IDP options, and look for the Vikings defense to play well in Week 11 against Seattle.
News: Vikings DE Jared Allen had seven tackles and a sack Sunday against Baltimore. He got help from LB Chad Greenway (10 tackles), DB Cedric Griffin (10 tackles), LB E.J. Henderson (six tackles), DL Kevin Williams (four tackles, two sacks and a forced fumble) and DL Ray Edwards (one tackle).
Analysis: The Vikings continue to have several of the top defenders in the NFL. Keep all of these players active for Week 7 at Pittsburgh and hope for more outings like this.
News: Vikings DB Tyrell Johnson (interception, five tackles), LB Chad Greenway (six tackles, forced fumble), LB E.J. Henderson (six tackles, fumble recovery), DL Pat Williams (four tackles, forced fumble) and DL Kevin Williams (three tackles, sack) all did their job well in a Week 5 rout of the Rams.
Analysis: Henderson and Greenway are solid starting Fantasy LBs in most IDP formats, while K. Williams has some value in deeper IDP leagues. The others have no Fantasy value heading into Week 6 vs. Baltimore.
News: A federal appeals court says the NFL can't suspend Minnesota Vikings Pat Williams and Kevin Williams for violating the league's anti-doping policy. The decision came Friday, two days before the Viking open the season at Cleveland. The NFL had cleared the two to play Sunday, but the court fight was still pending.
Analysis: The NFL wanted to suspend the Williamses for four games after they both tested positive for a banned diuretic during training camp in 2008. Until you hear about the 'Williams Wall' getting suspended, figure them to play. They're a big key in the success of the Minnesota run defense and pass rush, and they're part of the reason why the Vikings DST is worth a late-round pick in drafts as a No. 1 option. Kevin Williams is also a decent start in IDP leagues.
News: An NFL spokesman says Vikings defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams will play in the season-opener at Cleveland this weekend, regardless of what happens with their court case this week. The players are challenging a four-game suspension handed down for violating the league's drug policy. Neither is accused of taking steroids, and the case is tied up in court. NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said Tuesday that even if the court rules for the NFL, the suspensions will not begin this weekend.
Analysis: The players want swift resolution so any suspensions won't hang over them during the upcoming season, which begins at Cleveland. After the Williamses sued to fight the suspensions announced last December, the NFL argued to a federal judge that U.S. labor law pre-empted the pair's state claims. The judge dismissed some aspects of their lawsuit but left others up to the state court, a part of the ruling the NFL has appealed. Until you hear about the 'Williams Wall' getting suspended, figure them to play. They're a big key in the success of the Minnesota run defense and pass rush, and they're part of the reason why the Vikings DST is worth a late-round pick in drafts as a No. 1 option. Kevin Williams is also a decent start in IDP leagues.
News: Vikings linemen Kevin and Pat Williams still don't know if they'll be suspended by the NFL in their dispute over its anti-doping policy, but the fight won't be in state court any time soon - if at all. Hennepin County Judge Gary Larson put state court proceedings in the case on hold Wednesday, pending a decision from a federal court. He said a state trial during the 2009 season was unlikely. Larson granted the NFL's request to hold off until the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals weighs in. That panel hears arguments Aug. 18 in St. Paul. The players, who are not related, are not accused of taking steroids. They tested positive last summer for a banned diuretic that can mask the presence of steroids after taking the weight-loss supplement StarCaps. The diuretic, bumetanide, wasn't listed on the label. The NFL wants to suspend the players for four games each. "I just want it to be over," Pat Williams said at practice in Mankato. "If they're going to suspend me, they'll suspend me. If they ain't, they ain't. I'm just tired of it dragging and keeping going because you don't want to keep it over your head, your family's head, your teammate's head, your coach's head, your owner's head."
Analysis: The players wanted swift resolution so the suspensions wouldn't hang over them during the upcoming season, which begins with a Sept. 13 game at Cleveland. After the Williamses sued to fight the suspensions announced last December, the NFL argued to a federal judge that U.S. labor law pre-empted the pair's state claims. The judge dismissed some aspects of their lawsuit but left others up to the state court, a part of the ruling the NFL has appealed. Until you hear about the 'Williams Wall' getting suspended, figure them to play. While Pat Williams hardly posts enough stats to be useful in Fantasy Football, Kevin Williams is a usable option as a No. 2 DL.
News: If the waiting is the hardest part, Kevin Williams and Pat Williams haven't shown it. The Minnesota Vikings and their stalwart defensive tackles are still seeking resolution to their fight against the NFL's attempt to issue them a four-game suspension for use of the now-infamous weight-loss supplement StarCaps. More than eight months after news of their positive tests first broke, the Williamses find themselves in continued limbo. "I just keep on praying on it. That's all I'm going to do. Whatever happens happens," Pat Williams said after Tuesday's training camp practice, teasing Adrian Peterson on his way off the field about all the kids screaming for the running back's autograph. Hopefully it will be over soon, and we can move on," Kevin Williams said. "I'm not going to even worry about it." The state judge involved in the case has said he'll decide this week whether to put the players' lawsuit on hold at the league's request, while a federal appeals court considers other issues including input from other major sports. The NFL wants the suspensions, originally handed out last season, to start with Minnesota's opener on Sept. 13, but the league would rather the federal appeals be resolved first before further proceedings at the state level to avoid conflicting rulings. The players' attorney is pushing for a trial before the regular season begins on Sept. 13; if that's not possible, they want it delayed again until the season is over.
Analysis: Kevin Williams is once again worth a late-round as a top-end No. 1 Fantasy DL. Pat Williams is still nothing more than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire in-season. Still, the Vikings DST would definitely suffer without them so stay tuned to the latest.
News: A judge on Thursday blocked the NFL's plan to suspend Minnesota Vikings linemen Kevin Williams and Pat Williams for violating the league's anti-doping policy, a move their attorney said should let them start the season.
Analysis: Hennepin County District Judge Gary Larson granted the players' request for a temporary restraining order that keeps the NFL from suspending them until their case is decided. The order also prohibits the league from subjecting them to extra drug testing. The Williamses "would suffer a significant loss of playing time" without the restraining order, the judge wrote, and they have shown "some likelihood" of winning their lawsuit. Peter Ginsberg, an attorney for the two players, called the order a "major victory" and said that at a minimum it should allow them to play for the early part of the upcoming season. Kevin Williams is once again worth a late-round as a top-end No. 1 Fantasy DL. Pat Williams is still nothing more than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire in-season.
News: A federal judge has dismissed most of the claims by two Vikings stars facing suspension over their positive test for a banned diuretic. U.S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson on Friday remanded two of the claims by Vikings defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams to state court. But Magnuson threw out most of the Williamses' claims and dismissed a lawsuit brought by the NFL players union on behalf of the Williamses and three Saints players also facing suspension. Attorneys for the union and the Williamses argued that league officials knew a supplement called StarCaps contained a banned diuretic back in 2006 and did not specifically notify players. But the judge agreed with the NFL that players are responsible for what is in their bodies.
Analysis: The Williamses again face a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's drug policy. Expect the Vikings defense to take a huge hit without that duo stuffing the run early on in the year against the Browns, Lions, 49ers and Packers. Kevin Williams is worth a late-round pick as a top-end No. 2 Fantasy DL if he does indeed miss the first four games of the year. Pat Williams is nothing more than a one-week replacement off the waiver wire in-season.
News: A Minnesota judge has extended his preliminary injunction against the NFL's suspension of five players for violating the league's anti-doping policy. In his ruling Thursday, U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson asked both parties to propose a schedule by Dec. 22 to file pleadings in the case. That means the players are cleared to play for at least the next two weeks and probably through the rest of the regular season and postseason. Kevin Williams and Pat Williams of the Minnesota Vikings and Charles Grant, Deuce McAllister and Will Smith of the New Orleans Saints were suspended last week for four games each. They tested positive for a banned diuretic in the dietary supplement StarCaps. The union argued the NFL didn't properly inform players about what it knew about the product. The NFL's attorneys argued that claim, and others, had been considered and rejected in a process set out by the league's collective bargaining agreement.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep both defensive tackles active for Week 15 in IDP leagues, and their presence will help the Vikings DST. Consider the Vikings DST a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Word could come any time that Minnesota's standout defensive tackles, Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, and valuable New Orleans veterans running back Deuce McAllister and defensive end Will Smith, are back to being suspended. They tested positive for a controversial diuretic banned by the league, but the players union is fighting the punishments in court. U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson said he wouldn't rule on the case until he could properly digest all the information submitted by lawyers for both sides. He didn't set a timeline for himself.
Analysis: Kevin Williams gets enough sacks to make him a No. 2 Fantasy DL while Pat Williams is more of a low-end option. Their potential suspensions would have an even bigger impact on the Vikings DST, though, which might not look nearly so dominant without them. The Vikings already have a tough matchup Week 15 at Arizona, so keep an eye on this situation.
News: A federal judge on Friday blocked the NFL from suspending five players for violating the league's anti-doping policy. U.S. District Judge Paul Magnuson said he needed more time to consider the case after hearing several hours of arguments from the league and the NFL Players Association. Kevin Williams and Pat Williams of the Vikings and Charles Grant, Deuce McAllister and Will Smith of the Saints were suspended this week for four games each for testing positive for a banned diuretic in the dietary supplement StarCaps. The union argued the NFL didn't properly inform players about the substance. The NFL's attorneys argued that that claim, and others, had been considered and rejected in a process set out by the league's collective bargaining agreement.
Analysis: Obviously, this makes both Williamses Fantasy relevant for Week 14. Kevin Williams is a solid No. 2 Fantasy DL while Pat Williams serves as a low-end No. 3 in the deepest of leagues. It helps that they'll take on the Lions.
News: A Minnesota judge has blocked the NFL's suspension of Vikings stars Kevin and Pat Williams for violating the league's anti-doping policy. Hennepin County District Judge Gary Larson issued a temporary restraining order at the players' request on Wednesday, saying he wanted more time to hear arguments in the case. No further hearing date immediately was set. The Williamses were among six players suspended for four games for testing positive for a diuretic that can be used as a masking agent for steroids. They have argued that the substance containing the diuretic didn't list all its ingredients.
Analysis: With the suspensions blocked, it now looks like there's a chance the Williamses could play in Week 14 against the Lions but it still remains unlikely. "They'll get back and get their playbooks and start focusing on Detroit," their attorney, Peter Ginsberg, said following the hearing. Be sure to monitor the progress of this ongoing story this week and beyond. If these suspensions do come to fruition, look elsewhere in IDP leagues.
News: The Minnesota Vikings' defensive tackles Kevin and Pat Williams have gone to court to block their suspensions for violating the NFL's anti-doping policy. The star defensive tackles are seeking a temporary restraining order in Hennepin County District Court in Minneapolis. If the suspensions aren't blocked, they face the rest of the regular season without the anchors of a defense that ranks second against the run.
Analysis: If the suspensions of Kevin and Pat Williams aren't blocked, they are clearly no longer usable Fantasy options because they will be suspended for the rest of the season. They will probably be replaced by Fred Evans and Ellis Wyms, who have been serviceable defensive linemen in the past but not nearly as effective as they were. If the suspensions aren't blocked, look elsewhere in IDP Leagues for the rest of the season.
News: On Tuesday afternoon, the NFL announced the suspensions for six players who violated the NFL's Policy on Anabolic Steroids and Related Substances. Those players are Saints RB Deuce McAllister, DE Will Smith and DT Charles Grant, Vikings DTs Pat Williams and Kevin Williams and Texans LS Bryan Pittman. All of these players are suspended through the end of the NFL's 2008 regular season and are eligible to return for the playoffs this year if their team advances that far. In a statement, the NFL said that "the players specifically violated a longstanding provision of the policy relating to the use of diuretics and water pills, which serve as masking agents for steroids and are potentially dangerous to the health of players. The policy states that the use of so-called 'blocking' or 'masking' agents, including diuretics and water pills, is prohibited and that a positive test will not be excused because it results from the use of a dietary supplement that unknowingly contained a banned substance. Supplements are not regulated or monitored by the government and players have been warned about the risks of supplement use."
Analysis: Pat and Kevin Williams are no longer usable Fantasy options for the rest of the regular season since they'll be sidelined with the suspension. They will likely be replaced by Fred Evans and Ellis Wyms, who have been serviceable defensive linemen in the past but not nearly as effective as they were. Consider other options in IDP leagues going forward.
News: Falcons DL Grady Jackson and several other players could learn on Tuesday the results of their appeals to the NFL of suspensions for a positive doping test. Angelo Wright, Jackson's agent, told The Associated Press on Monday that "We think it will be tomorrow." Wright said he is confident Jackson will continue playing, no matter the result of the appeal with NFL officials. "I'm not worried about it either way," Wright said, adding he plans to "file something" if the appeal is denied. Jackson, Vikings DTs Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, New Orleans running back Deuce McAllister and defensive linemen Will Smith and Charles Grant, and Houston long snapper Bryan Pittman reportedly tested positive for the diuretic Bumetanide. The drug helps rid the body of excess water and salt but is considered a masking agent for steroids by the NFL.
Analysis: The players claim the banned substance was not listed as an ingredient in StarCaps, an over-the-counter weight-loss pill. Jackson filed suit against StarCaps in Alameda County Superior Court in California last month, seeking restitution for any lost salary and damages for "false advertising and unfair business practices." Falcons coach Mike Smith declined comment Monday when asked if he is prepared to be without Jackson for the team's final four regular-season games. "We can't really talk about that," Smith said. Of these players, McAllister has by far the most Fantasy appeal. The others only matter in Fantasy IDP formats, meaning any potential suspensions shouldn't affect many Fantasy leagues.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had five tackles Sunday against Chicago.
Analysis: Kevin Williams is a solid starting DL in all IDP Fantasy formats. Start him in Week 14 at Detroit.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams (1 1/2 sacks), DL Ellis Wyms (sack), DL Pat Williams (sack) and DL Ray Edwards (half a sack) all got to David Garrard in a Week 12 win at Jacksonville.
Analysis: Kevin Williams is a solid starting DL in all IDP Fantasy formats, while the other three guys have minimal or zero Fantasy value. Only start Kevin Williams in Week 13 vs. Chicago.
News: Minnesota Vikings star DTs Kevin Williams and Pat Williams have gone before the NFL to discuss their positive test for a banned diuretic. The Williamses were absent from practice Thursday to attend a hearing at the league office in New York. They face four-game suspensions if their appeal is denied. Angelo Wright, the agent for Pat Williams, said he believed it would be another week before they learn of the decision. Pat Williams has not missed a game since he played for Buffalo in 2001, when a leg injury sidelined him for the last three weeks. Kevin Williams has started 90 of a possible 92 games since he was drafted by Minnesota in 2003. He missed two games due to a sprained knee in 2005.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Kevin and Pat Williams because if they are out, it would severely hamper what the Vikings DST is capable of doing. It sounds like both will play in Week 12 at Jacksonville so keep them active.
News: Vikings defensive linemen Kevin and Pat Williams met with NFL officials Monday to appeal their suspensions after testing positive for a weight-loss diuretic considered a masking agent for steroids. Both are subject to four-game suspensions. One of the grounds for the players' appeal was that they simply were taking the product to reach prescribed weight standards. However, the NFL policy states: "The use of so-called 'blocking' or 'masking' agents is prohibited by this policy. These include diuretics or water pills, which have been used in the past by some players to reach an assigned weight. Players are responsible for what is in their bodies."
Analysis: If the Vikings are forced to play several games without either or both players, their run defense will struggle. Kevin Williams is a decent No. 2 Fantasy DL while Pat Williams is more of a low-end option.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams was held to just two tackles in a Week 11 loss to the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Williams is a rare defensive tackle that can make an impact on your Fantasy team. Start him as a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues in Week 12 at Jacksonville.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had five tackles Sunday against Green Bay.
Analysis: Williams is the rare defensive tackle that could make an impact on your Fantasy team. Start him as a No. 2 DL in IDP leagues in Week 11 at Tampa Bay.
News: Vikings coach Brad Childress is planning on Pro Bowl defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams playing in Sunday's game against Houston. Childress had no comment Monday on a Fox Sports report that the two Williamses have tested positive for one of the NFL's banned substances. That would mean a four-game suspension pending appeal. The league's policy is supposed to be confidential, so coaches and the NFL cannot comment. Childress called the situation "a personal issue." He says the Vikings won't let it be a distraction.
Analysis: Kevin Williams has posted modest totals this year, making him a No. 3 Fantasy DL. Pat Williams is far more of a run stuffer than anything else, so his stats aren't large and thus shouldn't be a part of your Fantasy team.
News:Kevin Williams had four of the team's six sacks in Week 6 vs. Detroit as the Vikings defense once again carried the load against the Lions.
Analysis: Williams is typically a run-stuffer, but he does have the occasional sack for an interior defensive lineman. On Sunday the sacks were more than occasional. Consider him at least a No. 2 DL in IDP after this performance.
News: Notable defenders from the Vikings loss at Tennessee include ... well, nobody. Outside of LB Chad Greenway (11 total tackles) and DB Cedric Griffin (seven solo tackles), no Vikings put up worthwhile Fantasy stats. Darren Sharper, Kevin Williams and Pat Williams tallied six total tackles each, with CB Antoine Winfield having seven total tackles. DE Jared Allen had three solo tackles.
Analysis: Of these defenders, Allen, Greenway, Sharper and Winfield are worth starting on a regular basis in IDP league play. These guys should do better at New Orleans in Week 5.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had two sacks Sunday against the Panthers and six tackles.
Analysis: Williams is typically a run-stuffer, but he does have the occasional sack for an interior defensive lineman. Consider him a No. 3 DL in Week 4 at the Titans.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams and Pat Williams combined for three tackles Sunday against the Colts, all from Pat Williams. Kevin Williams was held without a stat.
Analysis: The Williams' tackles are good for stopping the run and not much else. Ignore them in most IDP leagues.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams ended 2007 with 38 total tackles, three sacks (a career-low), six passes defensed, a forced fumble and a shocking two interceptions, both returned for touchdowns.
Analysis: Those touchdowns kept Williams in the top-30 Fantasy defensive linemen. No longer a sack threat, Williams is no better than a No. 3 Fantasy DL in 2008 IDP league play.
News: Even with rookie sensation Adrian Peterson completely shut down by the 49ers, the Minnesota Vikings were in good hands as soon as Kevin Williams got his big mitts on the ball. The Vikings' 311-pound defensive lineman returned an interception 18 yards for a touchdown on the game's first play in the Vikings' fourth consecutive victory, a 27-7 win over hapless San Francisco Week 14. Williams had just one assisted tackle in the game.
Analysis: Williams has 28 tackles, three sacks, two interceptions and two touchdowns this season. He has more touchdowns than some starting running backs and tight ends. He is not having a great season statistically, but still can be used as a low-end Fantasy DL.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had one sack and one tackle Sunday against Detroit.
Analysis: Williams is a No. 3 DL in IDP leagues and is worth starting in Week 14 at San Francisco.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had one tackle, a sack and recovered a fumble Sunday against Dallas.
Analysis: Williams is a low-end DL in IDP leagues but can be used if needed Week 8 against the Eagles.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams finished 2006 with 36 tackles (28 solo), five sacks, three fumble recoveries and six passes defensed.
Analysis: Williams was a nice low-end Fantasy DL, and that's what he should be considered for 2007 league play.
News: Defensive tackle Kevin Williams, recently chosen to play in his second Pro Bowl, agreed to a contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings. "I'm excited to get a deal done and finish my career with the team that drafted me," Williams said in a statement issued by the team.
Analysis: Williams, a first-round draft pick in 2003, anchors a defense that's giving up just 54.5 yards a game, tops in the NFL. He has five sacks this season. Use Williams as a low-end Fantasy DL for Week 16.
News: Vikings defenders on the Week 16 injury report include: CB Cedric Griffin (neck, doubtful), LB Napoleon Harris (wrist, probable), DT Pat Williams (knee, probable) and DT Kevin Williams (shoulder, probable).
Analysis: Griffin's absence will hurt the Vikings' DB depth, but otherwise the Vikings defense should be solid in the game. Only Harris and Kevin Williams should be considered for use in IDP leagues.
News: The Vikings DST had one interception and recovered one fumble against Miami but gave up 24 points and had no sacks. DB Dwight Smith had seven tackles and recovered a fumble. DB Fred Smoot had five tackles. DB Antoine Winfield had four tackles and an interception. DL Kevin Williams had two tackles. LB E.J. Henderson had four tackles. DB Darren Sharper had four tackles.
Analysis: Consider the Vikings DST a good sleeper for Week 12 against Arizona. Use all IDP players as needed.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 10 vs. Green Bay. He did not practice with the team on Wednesday.
Analysis: Williams has been playing well in 2006 with 25 tackles and five sacks on the season. He has emerged as a viable Fantasy option in IDP leagues. Keep an eye on his status leading up to Week 10, if you intended to use him for Fantasy purposes.
News: The Vikings defense had a great game against the 49ers in Week 9, but yet somehow, the offense could not lead the team to a victory. The Vikings defense held the 49ers to 133 yards and no touchdowns. They did give up three field goals. DB Antoine Winfield had the Vikings interception while LB Dontarrious Thomas, DL Kevin Williams and DB Darren Sharper all had sacks.
Analysis: It is just hard to imagine how a defense can play so well, but that team still manages to lose a game. The Vikings DST has been all over the place this season and it is not recommended you use them in Week 10 as the Packers come to town. Williams, Sharper and Winfield are all solid IDP options, while Thomas is not.
News: Vikings defensive tackle Pat Williams (knee) was upgraded Friday to probable, while defensive tackle Kevin Williams (ankle) remained questionable.
Analysis: Pat Williams is at best a No. 3 Fantasy DL when he plays at San Francisco. Kevin Williams is a No. 2 DL when healthy.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 9 at San Francisco.
Analysis: Williams has turned in a pretty good season with 22 tackles, four sacks, one fumble recovery and one touchdown. If you own Williams, monitor his status before starting him in Week 9 at San Francisco. He should be used as a No. 3 or No. 4 DL on most occassions.
News: Vikings defensive tackle Kevin Williams played most of the 31-7 loss with a high ankle sprain, Vikings coach Brad Childress said Tuesday.
Analysis: If you own Williams, monitor his status before starting him in Week 9 at San Francisco.
News: The Vikings DST scored a TD against Seattle when DL Kevin Williams recovered a fumble in the end zone. Williams also had four tackles and a sack. LB E.J. Henderson had nine tackles and an interception. DB Cedric Griffin had four tackles and an interception. LB Ben Leber had four tackles and a sack. DL Darrion Scott had three tackles and a sack.
Analysis: The Vikings DST has a difficult matchup in Week 8 against New England. Use your regular IDP players if needed against the Patriots.
News: Vikings DL Kevin Williams had three tackles and a sack against Detroit.
Analysis: Williams is a good No. 2 DL in IDP leagues. The Vikings have a bye in Week 6 but use Williams against Seattle in Week 7.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams, who was slowed much of last season after having knee surgery in the offseason, when asked if he feels like the Williams of a couple years ago is back. "He ain't ever went nowhere," Williams said. "He's been here the whole time." Williams recorded his first sack of the season Sunday against Carolina.
Analysis: Williams was once a Fantasy defensive stud, especially for a defensive tackle, but he should be used with caution until he proves he's back to being dominant.
News: Kevin Williams recorded six solo tackles and one sack in Sunday's 18-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Analysis: Williams is still not a recommended IDP option for Week 16 at Baltimore.
News: Vikings DT Kevin Williams (knee) is doubtful for his Week 14 game vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: Williams was once a Fantasy defensive stud, especially for a lineman, but not he must be avoided until he's healthy.
News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports Williams has arthroscopic surgery on his knee last week, but is expected to be ready for all of the team's offseason minicamps.
Analysis: Williams was a top player in individual defender leagues at defensive tackle and will once again be a highly coveted player on Draft Day.
News: The Minnesota Vikings signed first-round draft choice Kevin Williams on Friday.
Analysis: Williams might not make an immediate impact in individual defender leagues, but he should eventually become a quality Fanatsy lineman.
